THEFT
By Abdulrazak Gurnah
$32.99
Set in 1990s Zanzibar, Theft weaves the histories and fates of three young people at a time when their nation is on the cusp of dramatic change. The friendship between Badar, Fauzia, and Karim contains all the beautiful and devastating moments found when coming-of-age. However, when Badar is accused of stealing, their relationships become tested, and drama unfolds at an expert pace.
Gurnah’s prose is quiet and gentle, taking time to unravel the history of Zanzibar, and the three distinct protagonists. The tension that simmers in the background of the rich, layered world created in Theft culminates in a surprisingly intense way. The motivations behind our protagonist’s actions are not always clear at first, nor are the factors that have led to their circumstances.
Badar, for example, finds himself as a house servant for a family he has never met, with no idea why. It is the author’s careful plotting and unwinding of the drama that keeps the reader immersed and guessing.
Review by The Sun Bookshop
sunbookshop.com
STUFF I’M (NOT) SORRY FOR
By Maxine Beneba Clarke
$22.99
Maxine Beneba Clarke’s follow up to her kid’s poetry book It’s the Sound of the Thing is an absolute delight. Stuff I’m (Not) Sorry For is a poetry collection that celebrates rebelliousness and cheekiness, with equal parts humour and heart.
Consisting of 99 poems, ranging in style from sonnets to blackout poems, haikus to tongue-twisters and so much more! Perfect for poets and enthusiasts young and old. The book captures some truly gorgeous moments with the power of poetry: from the feeling of a standing ovation, stomping in mud puddles, a dragonfly dance, and the fun found in smearing tomato sauce everywhere. An absolutely riotous poetry collection that’s sure to bring a giggle and a smile to all readers and listeners.
Review by The Sun Bookshop
sunbookshop.com
My Harimau King
By Annie McCann.
I feel so lucky to have received an early copy of My Harimau King. I enjoyed this book! I was so happy to see that the story is set in West Java, Indonesia, and uses some Sundanese words. It made me feel very connected to the story because I’m from Indonesia too.
The book reminded me of my childhood when we often heard stories about Prabu Raja Siliwangi. Annie McCann also included babi ngepet, naga, Hanoman, and Mount Krakatoa—all famous legends and historical figures from Indonesia. This made the story not only fun and exciting but also full of learning.
One of my favourite parts was the time travel. Sumaiyah goes back to the past, to the ancient kingdom of Pajajaran. I really loved this part—it felt magical, and I learned a lot about our history and traditions.
The places mentioned in the book made me want to visit them in real life and learn more about our culture. I couldn’t stop reading! The mix of fantasy, family, friendship, and history was just perfect.
The story follows a 13-year-old girl named Sumaiyah Jackson. She lives in Parramatta, Sydney, but when strange things start happening and her family is in danger, she is suddenly taken to the ancient kingdom of Pajajaran. There, she discovers that she is “the chosen one.” She must break a curse, fight scary creatures, and save her family and friends.
I loved the blend of old legends and modern life. It made the story feel fresh and meaningful. Annie McCann did a great job creating a story that is exciting, magical, and full of heart. I truly loved it, and I hope many more people get to read it too!
Review by Aryani Siti
The Pirate and the Sandwich
By Matt Oates. Illustrated by Sienna Ham
This is a fun and silly story about two cheeky princes named Xander and H.J. Maxx. One day, they meet a magical stranger who sends them on a treasure hunt!
The brothers go on an exciting adventure to find a magical treasure. Along the way, they explore new places and work together.
The pictures in the book are bright and colourful. They help tell the story and make it even more fun to read! If you like pirates, treasure, and lots of fun, you will love The Pirate and the Sandwich!
Review by Aryani Siti
