Joan's picks: Best kids' books of 2023 - The Sunday Session with Francesca Rudkin

The year is drawing to a close, and Joan's sharing her picks for the top kids' books of 2023.

Little Ruby and Friends by Ruby Tui. Picture book. 

At The Bach by Joy Cowley & Hilary Jean Tapper.  Picture book.

Dog Man: Twenty Thousand Fleas Under the Sea by Dav Pilkey. 5-8 year olds. 

Children of the Rush by James Russell. 8-12 year olds. First title in what is now a two book series, set in the town of Lawrence in Otago during the Gold Rush about two kids there who form an alliance against corrupt grownups and have some dangerous adventures.

Silver Linings by Katrina Nannestad. 9+ I love her books – she writes historical fiction for this age group, the most recent ones set in WW2 but this is in Australia during the 1950’s about a young girl (around 6 years old) who narrates this story about the death of her mother, an aunt coming to look after them who is cold and harsh; and being overjoyed when her father remarries someone who really cares for the family and makes them feel good again – until disaster strikes. It’s really lovely. 

Edmonds Taku Puka Tohutao Tuatahi: Edmonds kids cookbook, translated into Māori. 

Patu: New Zealand Wars by Gavin Bishop. Suitable for the whole family. More brilliance from Gavin Bishop, this time on the New Zealand wars.

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