Reviewed by Rama Gaind.
By N.J. Gemmell, Random House, $14.99.
What do you do when you can’t find a book for your seven-year-old daughter to read? You do what Nikki Gemmell did: write one yourself!
It’s not an easy achievement, but Gemmell has turned her hand deftly to writing and illustrating a book that’s an easy fit for an early start to books. Even the adults are not overlooked as a reality check comes in handy to know how the young minds work.
A cheeky new series destined for stardom, from the bestselling author of The Kensington Reptilarium, which was a most unexpected adventure into a world unknown.
Coco Banjo does not want to go to school today, planning instead a yay day for fun on her secret island home on Sydney Harbour with her penguin friends. Wait, what’s that secret signal? Is her best friend Narianna in danger? Now she needs to head to Banksia Bay Public after all and of course, headmistress Miss Trample will not be happy.
Coco Banjo is errant, bold and impulsive. When it comes to reinstating impartiality, no test is too great and no answer too distressing. Narrated at an energetic pace, the humour is heart-warming and the illustrations are spot-on.
Gemmell presents a story that’s created with eagerness and it’s reflected in the illustrations that accompany the book. The volume is sure to hearten, draw attention and enchantment for young readers with a clear message to ‘stay strong, stay vivid, stay fabulous’.
