Library 

Speech Pathology Australia has released the 2025 Book of the Year Awards shortlist.

Each title is chosen for its appeal to children, its interactive qualities, and its potential to support communication and literacy development with the help of speech pathologists and parents.

Our school library is proud to have many of the shortlisted books, including these new favourites. Families are encouraged to come and explore them. They are perfect for sharing a story at home.

Greg the Galah, Superstar! by Patrick Guest, illustrated by Jonathan Bentley, is a rhyming tale full of humour and heart. Greg is a shy, polite galah who prefers quiet to silliness, quite unlike his best friend Bruce the budgie. When Bruce secretly enters Greg into a face-pulling competition, chaos follows. From pelicans to flamingos, every bird gives it a go, but Greg’s unexpected (and grossly funny) moment steals the show. Bright illustrations and playful rhymes make this a hit with kids who love a laugh.

Meerkat Mayhem by Mem Fox, illustrated by Judy Horacek, is a lively rhyming tale inspired by an old folktale. When a greedy meerkat gets stuck in his burrow, a parade of African animals try, unsuccessfully, to pull him free. With playful repetition and colourful illustrations, this funny story is perfect for reading aloud. Mem Fox reminds us that picture books should always entertain, and this one guarantees laughter and joy.

The full list can be viewed here: 

Kristia Gluyas

Library Technician