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Our kids' corner focuses on friendship, life's big lessons, and the history of our bond with dogs. For younger readers, we have stories that celebrate friendship, individuality, and a gentle book about coping with the loss of a pet. For older kids, we've selected a book exploring the co-evolution of humans and dogs and a charming collection of farm tales.
VADER A POLICE DOG
by David Raymond (Author)
In the tropical heat of North Queensland, one police dog’s courage became the stuff of legend.
For five years, German Shepherd Vader served alongside Sergeant David Raymond, tracking criminals, locating missing persons, and putting himself in harm’s way to protect his community. From high-stakes manhunts to heart-stopping rescues, Vader’s career was filled with extraordinary moments—some heroic, some humorous, and all deeply moving.
This gripping true story follows Vader from his early days at the Queensland Police Academy to the dangerous streets of Cairns, where he and Sgt Raymond worked as an unbreakable team. Whether chasing down violent offenders, finding people on the brink of death, or causing chaos with his notorious dislike of small animals, Vader was fearless, loyal, and relentless in his duty.
More than just a police dog, Vader left an incredible legacy. His story is a tribute to the bravery, dedication, and unbreakable bond between a handler and his four-legged partner.
Sergeant David Raymond BM APM is one of Australia’s most experienced police dog handlers, with a distinguished 36-year career in policing—26 of those years spent working alongside canine partners on the front line.
Paperback, 320 pages
Publisher: Big Sky Publishing, 26 August 2025
Price: $26.25 at amazon.com.au
BE YOUR DOG’S BEST FRIEND
The Benefits of Mutual Bonding and Relationship Building
by Katya Lidsky
Bonding with a dog is good for the animal and good for us.
Along the way to achieving the behaviours we desire from a dog, we change our behaviours too, taking us right to the intersection between dog guardianship and personal growth.
This how-to-bond book, set against the backdrop of a true love story, explores what happens when we prioritise the relationship with our canines over the results we get from them. With a woven narrative that features various foster dogs as well as exercises to practice with your own dog, it positions dog adoption as both a selfish and a selfless act.
RRP: $80.00. Available from major booksellers like The Nile, QBD Books, and Amazon.com.au.
LESSONS FROM CHARLIE
What this assistance dog taught us about leadership and connection Paperback
by Rudolf Grimm (Author)
Lessons from Charlie is a heart-warming and sharp book about leadership, attention, and the art of presence - told through the eyes of an assistance dog.
Publisher: Bookmundo, 1st August 2025
NATURE THERAPY
Rewilding the Canine Spirit
by Adia Shanee
Written by trauma-informed canine behaviour consultant Adia Shanee, this powerful, interactive guide explores how nature-based enrichment can help dogs re-regulate, rebuild trust, and rediscover their instincts-without force, fear, or overwhelm.
With stories from the field, grounded science, and practical guidance, Adia introduces a new standard of care rooted in emotional intelligence and real relationship in this experiential toolkit.
This is about showing up differently - for the dog in front of you, for the relationship you're building, and for the chance to meet their needs the best we can with what we have.
From creating plant-based "pluffle mats" to facilitating stillness through Whisper Walks, Nature Therapy offers accessible tools that meet dogs where they are-especially those who are misunderstood, shut down, or overstimulated by modern life.
Designed for active engagement, this book is for anyone who's ever looked at their dog and thought, "There has to be a better way." Whether you're a first-time guardian, seasoned professional, or rescue worker, Nature Therapy will change how you see behaviour-and how you show up for the dog in front of you.
Because behaviour isn't the enemy. It's the invitation.
Paperback, 200 pages
Publisher: Embody Impact Global, 29th July 2025
Price: $36.29 from www.booktopia.com.au
GOING TO THE DOGS
by Pierre Lemaitre
With Mathilde, there is never a stray bullet, her work is clean and neat. Tonight was an exception. A little whim. Obviously, she could have taken the shot from a distance, done less damage; obviously she could have made the hit with a single bullet. What can I say? I don't know what came over me. This is what she will say if anyone asks. And anyway, who cares? All that matters is that the guy is dead, right?
1985. Paris. Sixty-three-year-old Mathilde Perrin is on another mission. A widow, mother and decorated hero of the Resistance, she is also a ruthless and skilled contract killer, and the most unlikely suspect. But tonight, something has changed. Mathilde is agitated, forgetful and impulsive - so much so that even Ludo, her loyal and long-suffering Dalmatian, has noticed a dangerous shift in her mood.
For Mathilde, retirement is not an option. And no superior, nor police detective nor meddling neighbour will stand in her way. But as Mathilde's mind unravels and the bodies pile up, how long will it take before the killer herself becomes the target?
Trade Paperback, 256 pages
Publisher: Hachette Australia, Imprint: Mountain Leopard Press, 11th September 2025
Price: $36.80 from www.booktopia.com.au
LUCKY THE DOG AND OTHER TALES FROM THE FARM
by Michael Morpurgo, Sam Usher (Illustrator)
A charming story collection from Michael Morpurgo and illustrated by Guy Parker-Rees - full of friendship and adventure, and perfect to read together.
Find out how Elvis the donkey helps a trapped sea turtle, meet all the extraordinary animals of Wick Court through J's letters and watch as a special friendship turns Lucky into the very best sheepdog.
Full of friendship and adventure, these three uplifting stories capture the wonder, muck and magic of a city child's week on the farm.
Paperback, 144 pages
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers, 16th June 2025
For Ages: 5+ years old
Price: $15.80 from www.booktopia.com.au
SCOTTY AND THE SCOTTIES
by Gabriel Evans (Author)
Nothing is as it seems in Scotty and the Scotties, a delightfully funny read-aloud picture book about a family of scottie dogs, from beloved Australian picture-book star Gabriel Evans.
In Scotty's family, a scottie is a scottie, no matter what you look like. But when everyone looks the same, acts the same, and does all the same things, can you ever truly be your own scottie, too?
Packed full of surprises and plenty of heart, Scotty and the Scotties isn't just an irresistible story about loyalty, love and being yourself – it's also a cheeky search-and-find. Everyone will enjoy poring over the story to find the 'real' Scotty on every page, making this an instant modern classic and a sure favourite for all families, no matter how alike or different they are.
Whether you're navigating the first loss of a pet or supporting a pre-schooler through difficult emotions, this sweet and supportive pet loss book for toddlers will be a comforting companion for years to come.
If you're looking for a gentle, loving way to help your toddler understand the death of a dog, this book is the perfect place to begin.
Paperback, 32 pages
Publisher: Two Ravens Books LLC, 7th August 2025
For Ages: 2 - 4 years old
Price: $15.39 at www.amazon.com.au
SPOT'S BEDTIME WALK
A magic spotlight book
by Eric Hill
Use the 'magic torch' to help Spot find lots of hidden animals on his bedtime walk!
Spot and his family are camping in the garden, and it's nearly time for bed - but he's not tired! Join him on his bedtime walk and see how many animals you can discover along the way.
Insert the 'magic torch' between the pages to bring each night-time scene to life and reveal the animals hidden behind clever windows on each spread.
Eric Hill's Where's Spot? was the first ever lift-the-flap book - and his ground-breaking innovation continues to delight and surprise readers with interactive fun. Spot has now been a trusted character in early learning for over 40 years, selling over 65 million books worldwide.
Board Book, 12 pages
by David Raymond (Author)
In the tropical heat of North Queensland, one police dog’s courage became the stuff of legend.
This gripping true story follows Vader from his early days at the Queensland Police Academy to the dangerous streets of Cairns, where he and Sgt Raymond worked as an unbreakable team. Whether chasing down violent offenders, finding people on the brink of death, or causing chaos with his notorious dislike of small animals, Vader was fearless, loyal, and relentless in his duty.
More than just a police dog, Vader left an incredible legacy. His story is a tribute to the bravery, dedication, and unbreakable bond between a handler and his four-legged partner.
"A fearless protector, a loyal partner—Vader’s legacy lives on."About the Author
Sergeant David Raymond BM APM is one of Australia’s most experienced police dog handlers, with a distinguished 36-year career in policing—26 of those years spent working alongside canine partners on the front line.
Paperback, 320 pages
Publisher: Big Sky Publishing, 26 August 2025
Price: $26.25 at amazon.com.au
BE YOUR DOG’S BEST FRIEND
The Benefits of Mutual Bonding and Relationship Building
by Katya Lidsky
Bonding with a dog is good for the animal and good for us.
This how-to-bond book, set against the backdrop of a true love story, explores what happens when we prioritise the relationship with our canines over the results we get from them. With a woven narrative that features various foster dogs as well as exercises to practice with your own dog, it positions dog adoption as both a selfish and a selfless act.
Every dog has the capacity to help us be the best version of ourselves, day after day, and in bonding to improve the relationship with our pet, we end up strengthening the relationship we really want: the one with ourselves.
Series: Dogs in Our World
Paperback, 210 pages
Publisher: McFarland and Company, Inc., 28th August 2025
Price: $43.95 from www.booktopia.com.au
A WORLD OF DOGS IN WATERCOLOUR
Illustrations by David Freedman, Words by Craig J. Whittle, Foreword by Clare Hodges
From Dalmatians to Danes and Schnauzers to Sheepdogs, immerse yourself in A World of DOGS in Watercolour to explore the remarkable scope of humanity’s ‘best friend’. As a companion to David Freedman’s excellent Birds of Australia in Watercolour book, this new title once again pairs beautiful images with evocative words for the dog lover and artist alike.
Featuring over 140 dog breeds, prepare to come across some friendly faces and be surprised by less-familiar breeds.
Series: Dogs in Our World
Paperback, 210 pages
Publisher: McFarland and Company, Inc., 28th August 2025
Price: $43.95 from www.booktopia.com.au
A WORLD OF DOGS IN WATERCOLOUR
Illustrations by David Freedman, Words by Craig J. Whittle, Foreword by Clare Hodges
From Dalmatians to Danes and Schnauzers to Sheepdogs, immerse yourself in A World of DOGS in Watercolour to explore the remarkable scope of humanity’s ‘best friend’. As a companion to David Freedman’s excellent Birds of Australia in Watercolour book, this new title once again pairs beautiful images with evocative words for the dog lover and artist alike.
Freedman’s paintings impart character and warmth to each one, using clever watercolour techniques that have taken a lifetime to refine. Aspiring artists may use the insights provided in this book to learn about the unforgiving medium that is painting with watercolour, drawing from this rare and expert compilation.
As dog lovers themselves, the first-hand experiences from Freedman and Whittle are injected onto every page, offering a slice of knowledge and humour with each new four-legged friend. Whittle’s accompanying words are light and entertaining impressions of each breed, including their many virtues as well as their occasional, and often amusing, foibles.
Some of the featured dog breeds include the well-known Bloodhound, English Springer Spaniel and Australian Cattle Dog, but have you ever come across the Lagotto Romagnolo or Lhasa Apso?
As dog lovers themselves, the first-hand experiences from Freedman and Whittle are injected onto every page, offering a slice of knowledge and humour with each new four-legged friend. Whittle’s accompanying words are light and entertaining impressions of each breed, including their many virtues as well as their occasional, and often amusing, foibles.
Some of the featured dog breeds include the well-known Bloodhound, English Springer Spaniel and Australian Cattle Dog, but have you ever come across the Lagotto Romagnolo or Lhasa Apso?
Perhaps you did not know that alongside the world-famous dish, a Bolognese can also take the form of a furry friend. With a total of 283 illustrations to pique the interest of all dog lovers, A World of DOGS in Watercolour is a stunning book sure to delight any dog lover!
Hardback, 304 pages
Hardback, 304 pages
Publisher: Slattery Books, 30th September 2025
RRP: $80.00. Available from major booksellers like The Nile, QBD Books, and Amazon.com.au.
LESSONS FROM CHARLIE
What this assistance dog taught us about leadership and connection Paperback
by Rudolf Grimm (Author)
No models or management jargon, but real stories, striking insights, and a dog who, secretly, turned out to be a master coach. Teacher, coach, author and mentor Rudolf Grimm takes you into the extraordinary story of his daughter and her assistance dog Charlie: a loyal Labradoodle with perhaps more sense of timing, empathy and focus than the average leader.
What if leadership isn't just about directing, but first and foremost about being present? What if true power lies in gentleness? For everyone who works with people - not just Gen Z - or who simply is one. For leaders and coaches. For those with the courage to see things differently.
"A book on leadership that walks straight into your heart on four paws."Paperback, 161 pages
Publisher: Bookmundo, 1st August 2025
Price: $50.64 from www.amazon.com.au
NATURE THERAPY
Rewilding the Canine Spirit
by Adia Shanee
Written by trauma-informed canine behaviour consultant Adia Shanee, this powerful, interactive guide explores how nature-based enrichment can help dogs re-regulate, rebuild trust, and rediscover their instincts-without force, fear, or overwhelm.
This is about showing up differently - for the dog in front of you, for the relationship you're building, and for the chance to meet their needs the best we can with what we have.
From creating plant-based "pluffle mats" to facilitating stillness through Whisper Walks, Nature Therapy offers accessible tools that meet dogs where they are-especially those who are misunderstood, shut down, or overstimulated by modern life.
Designed for active engagement, this book is for anyone who's ever looked at their dog and thought, "There has to be a better way." Whether you're a first-time guardian, seasoned professional, or rescue worker, Nature Therapy will change how you see behaviour-and how you show up for the dog in front of you.
Because behaviour isn't the enemy. It's the invitation.
Paperback, 200 pages
Publisher: Embody Impact Global, 29th July 2025
Price: $36.29 from www.booktopia.com.au
GOING TO THE DOGS
by Pierre Lemaitre
1985. Paris. Sixty-three-year-old Mathilde Perrin is on another mission. A widow, mother and decorated hero of the Resistance, she is also a ruthless and skilled contract killer, and the most unlikely suspect. But tonight, something has changed. Mathilde is agitated, forgetful and impulsive - so much so that even Ludo, her loyal and long-suffering Dalmatian, has noticed a dangerous shift in her mood.
For Mathilde, retirement is not an option. And no superior, nor police detective nor meddling neighbour will stand in her way. But as Mathilde's mind unravels and the bodies pile up, how long will it take before the killer herself becomes the target?
Trade Paperback, 256 pages
Publisher: Hachette Australia, Imprint: Mountain Leopard Press, 11th September 2025
Price: $36.80 from www.booktopia.com.au
BOOK CLUB - KIDS’ CORNER
CANINE CONNECTION
How Dogs and Humans Evolved Together
by Christopher Gudgeon (Author)
Dogs understand humans better than any other animal does, even chimpanzees, our closest relatives.
Dogs are experts in human body language and expressions, and over time the muscles around their eyes have even adapted so they can communicate more easily with humans. And why do you get that warm feeling when you gaze into your dog’s eyes? It's because of increased levels of oxytocin, the “love” hormone. It creates feelings of affection, trust and social bonding.
None of this is a coincidence. The bond humans have with dogs is the result of tens of thousands of years of co-evolution and a unique cross-species friendship that has changed the course of life on this planet. The proof of this long-lasting connection is everywhere. Dog bones were discovered at ancient human burial sites and prehistoric paw prints were found beside a child's footprints deep inside a cave in the French Alps.
CANINE CONNECTION
How Dogs and Humans Evolved Together
by Christopher Gudgeon (Author)
Dogs understand humans better than any other animal does, even chimpanzees, our closest relatives.
None of this is a coincidence. The bond humans have with dogs is the result of tens of thousands of years of co-evolution and a unique cross-species friendship that has changed the course of life on this planet. The proof of this long-lasting connection is everywhere. Dog bones were discovered at ancient human burial sites and prehistoric paw prints were found beside a child's footprints deep inside a cave in the French Alps.
In Canine Connection, readers will travel around the globe and through time to put their finger (or paw) on the story behind history’s true BFFs.
Hardcover, 88 pages
Publisher: Orca Book Publishers, 16 September 2025
For Ages: 9-12 years old
Price: $50.25 from www.booktopia.com.au
Hardcover, 88 pages
Publisher: Orca Book Publishers, 16 September 2025
For Ages: 9-12 years old
Price: $50.25 from www.booktopia.com.au
by Michael Morpurgo, Sam Usher (Illustrator)
Find out how Elvis the donkey helps a trapped sea turtle, meet all the extraordinary animals of Wick Court through J's letters and watch as a special friendship turns Lucky into the very best sheepdog.
Full of friendship and adventure, these three uplifting stories capture the wonder, muck and magic of a city child's week on the farm.
Paperback, 144 pages
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers, 16th June 2025
For Ages: 5+ years old
Price: $15.80 from www.booktopia.com.au
SCOTTY AND THE SCOTTIES
by Gabriel Evans (Author)
Nothing is as it seems in Scotty and the Scotties, a delightfully funny read-aloud picture book about a family of scottie dogs, from beloved Australian picture-book star Gabriel Evans.
Packed full of surprises and plenty of heart, Scotty and the Scotties isn't just an irresistible story about loyalty, love and being yourself – it's also a cheeky search-and-find. Everyone will enjoy poring over the story to find the 'real' Scotty on every page, making this an instant modern classic and a sure favourite for all families, no matter how alike or different they are.
Hardcover, 32 pages
Publisher: Hardie Grant Children's Publishing, 29th July 2025
For Ages: 2 - 5 years old
Price: $18.75 from www.amazon.com.au
For Ages: 2 - 5 years old
Price: $18.75 from www.amazon.com.au
A PRESENT FOR JUNKET
by Mandy Wildsmith, Nancy Liu (Illustrator)
In an unnamed Melbourne suburb, a Groodle named Gherkin goes looking for a birthday present for her best friend. But what does make the perfect gift? The answer may surprise you...
When Gherkin is woken early by the garbage truck outside, her first thought is: yum, rubbish! Then she remembers that it's her best friend Junket's birthday ... and Gherkin needs a present for her. But what would Junket love? A new toy? A new jacket? Gherkin keeps hunting, and soon realises the perfect present has been right in front of her all along ...
From an exciting new picture-book duo comes this entertaining neighbourhood adventure about friendship, generosity and the secret lives of dogs. Packed with gentle humour, a subtle 'make do and mend' message, and glorious watercolour artwork from illustrator Nancy Liu, this sweet picture book is perfect for toddlers, doggy fans and rubbish-truck enthusiasts alike!
Hardcover, 24 pages
Publisher: Little Hare, 4th March 2025
For Ages: 2 - 5 years old
Price: $19.25 from www.amazon.com.au
Helping Toddlers Cope with the Loss of a Dog, With Gentle Affirmations and Comforting Joy.
Losing a beloved dog can be confusing and heart-breaking for a toddler. Many parents and caregivers struggle to explain pet death in a way that feels safe, age-appropriate, and emotionally supportive.
With soothing language and playful rhythm, I Remember the Fun: Bye Bye Doggy! helps young children process grief by focusing on the joyful memories they shared with their furry friend. Each page encourages toddlers to talk, laugh, remember, and feel love even after saying goodbye.
by Mandy Wildsmith, Nancy Liu (Illustrator)
In an unnamed Melbourne suburb, a Groodle named Gherkin goes looking for a birthday present for her best friend. But what does make the perfect gift? The answer may surprise you...
From an exciting new picture-book duo comes this entertaining neighbourhood adventure about friendship, generosity and the secret lives of dogs. Packed with gentle humour, a subtle 'make do and mend' message, and glorious watercolour artwork from illustrator Nancy Liu, this sweet picture book is perfect for toddlers, doggy fans and rubbish-truck enthusiasts alike!
Hardcover, 24 pages
Publisher: Little Hare, 4th March 2025
For Ages: 2 - 5 years old
Price: $19.25 from www.amazon.com.au
I REMEMBER THE FUN. BYE BYE DOGGY!
by Suzanne T. Christian, Two Little RavensHelping Toddlers Cope with the Loss of a Dog, With Gentle Affirmations and Comforting Joy.
With soothing language and playful rhythm, I Remember the Fun: Bye Bye Doggy! helps young children process grief by focusing on the joyful memories they shared with their furry friend. Each page encourages toddlers to talk, laugh, remember, and feel love even after saying goodbye.
Whether you're navigating the first loss of a pet or supporting a pre-schooler through difficult emotions, this sweet and supportive pet loss book for toddlers will be a comforting companion for years to come.
If you're looking for a gentle, loving way to help your toddler understand the death of a dog, this book is the perfect place to begin.
Paperback, 32 pages
Publisher: Two Ravens Books LLC, 7th August 2025
For Ages: 2 - 4 years old
Price: $15.39 at www.amazon.com.au
A magic spotlight book
by Eric Hill
Spot and his family are camping in the garden, and it's nearly time for bed - but he's not tired! Join him on his bedtime walk and see how many animals you can discover along the way.
Insert the 'magic torch' between the pages to bring each night-time scene to life and reveal the animals hidden behind clever windows on each spread.
Eric Hill's Where's Spot? was the first ever lift-the-flap book - and his ground-breaking innovation continues to delight and surprise readers with interactive fun. Spot has now been a trusted character in early learning for over 40 years, selling over 65 million books worldwide.
Board Book, 12 pages
Publisher: Penguin Kids Australia, Imprint: Puffin, 9 September 2025
Price: $10.00 from www.amazon.com.au
Price: $10.00 from www.amazon.com.au
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