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Julia Christians Books

Vinny needs support from his agony-aunt mum, but she’s too busy helping other people to notice in this empathetic tale about family and mental health by bestseller Helen Rutter.

Vinny’s got problems – lots of them. His family’s falling apart, and his best mates have dumped him for some really annoying girls.

He should be able to turn to his mum for help – she’s an online life coach who answers other people’s problems for a living. But she’s too busy to see that Vinny is really struggling.

Unable to solve his own issues, Vinny starts replying to unanswered posts on an old blog of his mum’s. At first the solutions seem easy, and he can be as hilariously honest as any 12-year-old boy would be, but what will happen when Vinny realises he’s out of his depth?

Particularly suitable for readers aged 9+ with a reading age of 8.

‘The Street Where Santa Lives’ is a warm and thoughtful picture book that blends festive magic with an important message about kindness, community and noticing those around us. When a new neighbour moves in next door, everyone on the busy street is too occupied with their own lives to pay attention, except for a little girl who is convinced that the man is Father Christmas. When the little girl discovers that her new neighbour is excellent at mending things, she proudly creates a sign for Santa’s Workshop.

As winter sets in, the story takes a tender turn when the girl realises she hasn’t seen her friend for some time. Her concern leads the family to discover that he is unwell, and the community quickly comes together to care for him.

Although closely associated with Christmas, the story carries a community message that extends far beyond the festive season. Set on a street full of busy people, it highlights how easily individuals can be overlooked, particularly elderly neighbours. The little girl’s kindness demonstrates how simple acts of attention can lead to meaningful connections and reveal the value everyone brings when given the chance.

Children will enjoy debating whether the neighbour truly is Santa, as his unexpected answers contrast with the many festive hints scattered throughout the story. This is a gentle, engaging book that encourages compassion, community spirit and reaching out to others.

What That in Dog Years is a story with many themes and emotions. It’s a story of life, love, friendship, happiness and grief.
 
George has a lot going on in his life – coping with his parents’ separation, growing apart from his best friend and being bullied. Through it all, he’s had his greatest friend and canine companion Gizmo by his side. Unfortunately, Gizmo is getting old and George must prepare himself for the time when Gizmo won’t be there any longer. George creates a Bucket List for Gizmo, so he can give his dog the best life possible before it’s time to say goodbye.
As he sets about helping Gizmo tick off his list, George still has to deal with all of his other problems. Through the journey, George discovers an inner strength he never knew he had and a new sense of self-worth.
 
This story is told from two points of view; George and Gizmo. While there is inevitably an heart-wrenching climax when it’s time for Gizmo to go, this is also a tale of growth and courage for George. A truly unforgettable story.

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