Cirrus@Austlit

'Bessie’s War takes a look at the part women on the home front played in World War 1. Bessie is frustrated because her brothers and father are off fighting the war and she is stuck at home feeling like she can offer no help. When she discovers that the soldiers need socks she enlists the help of her whole class to knit socks for the war.' (Publication Summary)

'Innocent about the meaning of war and looking for adventure along with so many others, Aidan Jackson, known as Jack, sets out for Gallipoli with his bugle. He becomes best mate to Harry, who later brings Jack’s bugle home.

'This book is a salute to the men at Anzac Cove. It’s a hymn to the mateship and camaraderie shared in the sands of Egypt, and the trenches. And amidst the bullet fire, it’s always mates looking after mates with loyalty and sacrifice.

'Ever present in the story is the bugle; Jack’s Bugle, that brought something singular to the men at Gallipoli and which remained along with a bent photo, the only reminder for Harry of his friend.' (Publication summary)

'Warriors tells two stories of major significance in Chinese history. Firstly, the confronting story of why and for whom the Terracotta Warriors were created, and secondly, the unbelievable one of their chance discovery by farmers some 2,000 years later in 1974. On a visit to China with his father Vincent learns not only about the Terracotta Warriors but other interesting facts about China. In addition to the traditional narrative the reader is encouraged to find out more information through a series of non-fiction notes scattered throughout the book.' (Source: Trove)

'On Christmas Eve, 1882, Lady Janet Clarke burnt wooden bails at her home in Sunbury, Victoria, after a social cricket match between some local lads and the visiting England team. The 'Rupertswood' Ashes were presented to the Honorable Ivo Bligh, the England captain, by Lady Janet as a personal memento of his victory that Christmas Eve - but also as a joke. This picture story book is a fictionalised account of the story, told from the perspective of Lady Janet's six-year old son, Russell. ' (Publication summary)

'Xanthe's dreams of winning a medal at the National diving championships are in doubt. Will injury stop her competing in Perth? Is her diving career over for good? Diving has been Xanthe's life, but is it time to pursue her singing talents? And will new friends like the young Japanese diver Hiroko and the gorgeous Felix Bartlett threaten Xanthe's relationship with her best friend Julia?

'Packed with diving and singing competition action, No Tears is the story of a young girl's struggle to cope with life's unexpected challenges, to hold on to what truly matters, and to achieve her dreams.' (Publication summary)

'Rhys Morton and Toby Hampshire are in Lorne with Toby's family to compete in the Lorne Easter Surf competition. When items start to disappear near the surf club, a local surfer suspects a young skateboarder, so Rhys and Toby go to the skate park hoping to track down the thief. But who is it? And why would a skater be stealing surfing equipment?' (Publication summary)

'Felix is a gifted and talented 13 year old who isn't coping. His self confidence has vanished since he men Julia. Musically he doubts that he will ever become a world class saxophonist, despite the faith his teacher has in him and in his home life, he has growing doubts about who he is and where he belongs. Ages 10-12.' (Publication summary)