Hopscotch - a collection of short stories and poetry for children by Dawn Meredith & other authors

Check out my latest work, as a contributor in 'Hopscotch volume 1 - Packed Lunch', a book of poetry and short stories for kids. Lots of great authors and beautiful, fun, exciting work! You can find out more about it here: jellibeanzbooks.wordpress.com/hopscotch  and order your very own copy here: Bookstore

cheers, Dawn

The Anything Shop - perfect christmas gift!

Christmas is nearly here! I have to say, I'm thankful for the cooler summer we're having so far. Makes it cosy! Anyway, my latest little book, The Anything Shop, is available online at booktopia and buyaustralianbooks. See the links on the right hand side of my blog.

In other news, I recently spent a week in Perth and had a fabulous time at the Art Gallery and museum. There's a wonderful exhibition on at the moment - "Princely Treasures". princely treasures  is a collection form the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. European masterpieces 1600-1800, including religious icons, tapestries, paintings, clothing and jewellery, ornamental pieces such as snuff boxes, weaponry and armour. Even an air powered rifle! If you're a fan of Jane Austen, you'd love it!

 This formidably cool dinosaur stands in the entrance hall of the museum

 What did I tell you? Jane Austen style shoes

 One of the most stunning pieces of furniture I have ever seen. The inlay work is mind boggling. Back in the days when people took pride and a lot of time to create something of exquisite beauty which endures for centuries.

 Hm, reminds me of 'Night at the Museum'! Now, where's that bone?

 Couldn't resist taking a photo of this well-cared-for little chap, in his sandshoes!!!!

A wall of flutterbys....

cheers, Dawn

Read Plus review of Dawn Meredith's book - The Anything Shop

Review Blog from Read Plus

Nov 30 2011

The Anything Shop by Dawn Meredith

Ill. Lesley Vamos. Wombat Books 2011. ISBN 9781921633515.
(Ages: 6 to 9) Recommended.
Dawn Meredith admits to having weird ideas in her head and this little story does have an odd starting point. However, the story is a satisfying one, initiating some interesting and thought-provoking ideas. Ten year-old Charlie is fascinated when he comes across a new shop which seems to have magically appeared, calling itself The Anything Shop, and inviting customers in to swap or buy anything they wish. Could a shop really give Charlie whatever he wanted? He has to find out. Charlie's inquiry seems to have been prearranged as Alfred and Meryl, the shop owners, know exactly why he is there. Charlie swaps those very embarrassing hugs he gets at home for an amazing cricket bat, which is the answer to all his dreams of becoming a champion player at school! It is not long before he realises that 'no hugs at home' cannot be replaced by cricket prowess; but he is locked into the swap for two years. How can he get back to what life was like and why do Alfred and Meryl want to take the joys of childhood away? As Charlie sets out to solve his dilemma, along with Sam his new friend caught up in the same swindle, he comes to an understanding of what is really important. There is plenty of action in this simple, but cleverly told story, and the interspersing of lively black and white drawings add to its accessibility.
- Julie Wells

Have a look at other book reviews on this fabulous site: www.readplus.com.au
cheers, Dawn