Continuing on from my previous tributes to amazing Literary Foundations and inspiring Educational Initiatives, today I am dedicating this post to the wonderful advocates, supporters and suppliers of our fantastic Australian books, their creators and publishers; our booksellers! Below is a small list of both physical and online stores with immeasurable passion and commitment to bringing awareness, and love of children’s books to the public. Thank you for keeping our book industry alive!
Boomerang Books maintains a distinct focus on Australian books, authors and publishers, with a huge selection of both new and second-hand quality titles. They offer fantastic discounts and loyalty programs, and the customer service aspect is top notch. Boomerang Books reach out to the public brilliantly with their consistent social media initiatives and their blog delivers beautifully-written and worthwhile reads from their in-house team (and I just happen to be one of them!).
Visit Boomerang Books at their website, blog, Facebook and Twitter pages. #ByAustralianBuyAustralian
Story Mama is a fully dedicated picture book online store selling and recommending a large range of carefully selected (by parents) titles for children. Melbourne-based Debbie Hatswell has provided an amazing treasury of books, categorised by age, theme, interest and popularity to make your purchasing experience easy, pleasant and informative. Her blog and social media accounts also offer useful tips for parents on many topics covering reading, starting school, award-winning books and author interviews.
Visit Story Mama at their website, Facebook and Twitter pages.
The Kids Bookshop offer a wonderful array of children’s books for purchase at their online store, but also have great incentives for schools along with curriculum advice. They often organise valuable events such as professional development sessions and author presentations for teachers, librarians and students. You’ll recognise their brand with the gorgeous Anna Walker illustrations!
Find The Kids Bookshop at their website, Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest pages.
Books Illustrated are a huge advocate for Australian picture books and illustrations. Established in 1988 by the wonderful Ann James and Ann Haddon, Books Illustrated celebrate children’s literature by promoting the work of illustrators through exhibitions and via their showroom in bayside Melbourne where original artwork and books can be purchased.
Books, prints and paintings can also be ordered online at their gorgeous website. They can be seen on Facebook and Twitter as well.
The Little Bookroom is a quaint storefront, the first devoted children’s bookshop opened in 1960 by Albert Ullin in inner-Melbourne. Carrying on his legacy, the staff are dedicated to supporting children’s literature and Australian authors and illustrators. Their online store is neatly categorised by theme or genre, making it simple to find your favourite author or title. The Little Bookroom store often holds marvellous events including book launches and special storytime appearances to delight both young and old.
Keep in touch with them at their website, Facebook and Twitter pages.
Redgum Book Club works in close conjunction with teachers, schools and parents to provide engaging and educational books for kids. They aim to encourage children’s literacy and reading through the promotion of quality Australian books and products. Adorably grouped by Aussie mascots representing age guides, educational resources and titles for families, it is quite fun and easy to find appropriate books to suit your needs.
Visit Redgum Book Club at their website and Facebook page.
Children’s Books Daily focuses on ‘creating lifelong readers’. Megan Daley, founder and passionate teacher librarian, works tirelessly in the children’s book industry promoting a love of reading amongst a wide range of Australian readers. Her online community provides fantastic tips and information for parents, schools and libraries, as well as providing options for purchasing books from various retailers.
Find Children’s Books Daily at their website, Facebook and Twitter pages.
Lamont Books is an Australian, family-owned company in Victoria supplying books for school libraries throughout the country. They are able to provide new release and popular titles upon request and the Lamont Book Fairs enable children and families to raise money for their own school.
Find out more about Lamont Books at their website, Facebook and Twitter pages.
The Mad Hatters Bookshop opened its whimsical doors one year ago in Brisbane. A truly magical place for children, you’ll find a wide range of unique books, cards, gifts and games for young and old. Talented illustrator, Ann-Marie Finn not only owns and runs the shop but has also created the most amazing backdrops and props to entice all its visitors. The Mad Hatters Bookshop is the place to be for all your bookish, art and craft and special reading events needs.
Don’t be late! Pop in to see them at their website and Facebook page.
Established in 1971, The Children’s Bookshop is the oldest specialist children’s bookshop in NSW. They pride themselves on retail excellence, and also provide speaker services for schools and early childhood settings. The Children’s Bookshop pride themselves on promoting independent authors and illustrators, often welcoming presentations, book launches and featuring Indie Book Award Winners.
Find The Children’s Bookshop at their website and Facebook page.
Readings is an independent retailer operating in various suburbs across Melbourne. Their calendar of events is huge, showcasing a range of events such as author talks and signings, performances, readings and book launches. They also support Australian talent with their annual book prizes, including the inaugral Children’s Book Prize, as well as being the leading book supplier for book festivals and events. Books are recommended with sophisticated reviews, and can be purchased online.
Visit the Readings website, Facebook and Twitter pages for more information.
With plenty of options on offer, you’ll know exactly where to find beautiful Australian books! So…
“Your mountain is waiting, so get on your way!”
– Dr. Seuss.
If you have another great bookseller to recommend we’d love to hear from you! 😃 📚
