Books Aloud

Author Kirsten OConnor joins us to discuss her book The Year After Kahlia, written after the death of her daughter, Kahlia. Together we explore the realities of grief, the enduring nature of love, and what it means to continue living after an unimaginable loss. Kirsten shares the experiences that inspired the book, the importance of honest conversations about grief, and how communities can better support those navigating loss. A heartfelt and hopeful conversation about remembrance, resilience, and the power of simply being there for one another. The Year After Kahlia is available through Kirsten O’Connor’s website This is Grief. The book is also available at all online stores and some independent bookstores. This episode was first broadcast on Coast Access Radio, a Community Access Media Alliance station amplifying the voices of Kāpiti and Horowhenua, proudly supported by NZ On Air. Learn more at www.coastaccessradio.org.nz

Author Jenny McGlone sits down with Viv to talk about her book Jimmy Whiskers and the Great Parrot Rescue. About the book : Three spectacular parrots have escaped from Ebdentown zoo and Jimmy Whiskers is DESPERATE to bring them home. BUT, there has been a pet rebellion and the crazy cat and dog rebels are now in charge. Who is going to help Jimmy rescue the parrots? Find out more about the author and the book in this episode with this wonderful local Kapiti writer.

Internationally successful series, The Terrible Trio's third (and spoiler alert - last) in this series for these hilarious books from author Swapna Haddow. Brilliantly funny and wonderfully illustrated, Catherine chats with author Swapna on the adventures of these wacky 3.

Debut crime novel - Bob Richmond publishes his humorous debut novel at 78 years young, proving it’s never too late to try your hand at something new. Catherine sits down with this delightful new author to chat about what it takes to start writing in retirement, where the idea came from and what is it like writing about crime. A pleasurable chat with a decidedly lovely chap.

A psychological thriller LIT by Anna Woods. Auckland-based author Anna Woods pens a debut novel after a career garnering recognition and awards for her short stories (Sargeson Award 2023 and the Commonwealth Short Story Prize shortlist 2024). In this psychological thriller, Woods explores systems of control and how power, class and beauty can be weaponised. Set in Auckland, LIT is a twist-driven literary thriller that tells a sharp and unsettling story about control, gaslighting and the lies we tell to survive. Its a jolly good read! This episode was first broadcast on Coast Access Radio, a Community Access Media Alliance station amplifying the voices of Kāpiti and Horowhenua. Supported by NZ On Air. Visit coastaccessradio.org.nz

Our Unbroken Spirits Series returns with this new book "The Spirit Remains" from author Donna Goodacre. Donna has set her historical novel in the 1890s, exploring the empowerment of women, evolving Māori-Pākehā relations and the determination required to pursue one’s purpose. From the quiet streets of Hamilton and the windswept shores of Kāwhia to the battlefields that will claim so many sons, The Spirit Remains is a sweeping tale of grief and grit, of the ties that hold whānau together across oceans and generations, and of the pounamu that carries their unbroken story forward. This episode was first broadcast on Coast Access Radio, a Community Access Media Alliance station amplifying the voices of Kāpiti and Horowhenua. Supported by NZ On Air. Visit coastaccessradio.org.nz

Two mysteries, two separate investigations - or are they? A melting glacier gives up its secrets, a man is murdered in his ritzy beachside home, and the Christchurch detectives get to work. A handful of rich listers start eyeing their assets and shaking in their Jimmy Choos, but the police are cold on the trail until once again Detective Jack Simmons calls on criminal psychologist Nellie Prayle to help them navigate a powerful web of secrets and lies frozen in time. Set against the dramatic beauty of the Southern Alps and the elite world of some of Christchurch’s rich and powerful, Icefall is a classic murder mystery. Catherine sits down with Author Marie Connelly to talk about this second highly anticipated Nellie Prayle crime novel. Marie's first novel, Dark Sky, was shortlisted for the Ngai Marsh Awards. This episode was first broadcast on Coast Access Radio, a Community Access Media Alliance station amplifying the voices of Kāpiti and Horowhenua. Supported by NZ On Air. Visit coastaccessradio.org.nz

What happens when motherhood isn’t what you expect? When it's not instinctual and feels impossible to handle on your own? Let’s meet in The Mother Hood - because we were never meant to do it alone. Vanessa De Carvalho’s debut novel is perfect for fans of Sophie Kinsella and Marian Keyes. Catherine chats to Vanessa about the themes that run through the book and why she wanted to write this page turner. To get your hands on a copy of the book, head to her website https://vdcwriter.com/orderthemotherhood/ copypress.co.nz or mebooks.co.nz. You can also ask your local library if they can get the book in for you. This episode was first broadcast on Coast Access Radio, a Community Access Media Alliance station amplifying the voices of Kāpiti and Horowhenua. Supported by NZ On Air. Visit coastaccessradio.org.nz

From an award-winning author comes an exquisite collection of short stories spanning the 18th century to the modern day. Viv sits down with author Majella Cullinane to talk about her new book - Islands Ever After - available now. This episode was first broadcast on Coast Access Radio, a Community Access Media Alliance station amplifying the voices of Kāpiti and Horowhenua. Supported by NZ On Air. Visit coastaccessradio.org.nz

Celebrated New Zealand poet Elizabeth Smither discusses her new book - The Interview.  Each poem in The Interview Rose is a bridge between the private self and the physical world, travelling the long route through art, religion, philosophy, and the pleasures of language. In her twentieth poetry collection, Elizabeth Smither brings together a new ensemble of surprising images and charismatic companions. A herd of cows gathers around a radio to listen wide-eyed to a Mozart concerto. A frog leads us unhurriedly down the garden path. Jane Austen’s Emma makes an appearance. A cat critiques Wittgenstein. And a flamboyant fabric rose rescues a job interview.   This episode was first broadcast on Coast Access Radio, a Community Access Media Alliance station amplifying the voices of Kāpiti and Horowhenua. Supported by NZ On Air. Visit coastaccessradio.org.nz

A page turning thriller set in Wellington and Nelson, this latest book from Riley Chance - a NZ Booklovers Award-shortlisted novelist - is a face paced book which also offers a window into societal issues. History, drama, politics and spies - it is all in this fabulous book by Riley and Catherine sits down in front of the mic and asks Riley about the book, his process and what is next on the horizon. This episode was first broadcast on Coast Access Radio, a Community Access Media Alliance station amplifying the voices of Kāpiti and Horowhenua. Supported by NZ On Air. Visit coastaccessradio.org.nz

Ireland 1975, at the height of the Troubles, young wife and mother Kitty Donovan has it all - until the night her doctor husband vanishes with his receptionist, leaving a typed note, empty bank accounts, and a scandal that rocks her rural town. Branded a deserted wife and left penniless, Kitty struggles to rebuild her life within the confines of Catholic convention. Catherine interviews author - Sharron Martin - about her gripping first novel - Cygnet River. This is a story of love, resilience, and one woman’s fight to reclaim her life. This fantastic book from Sharron Martin should fly off the shelves! This episode was first broadcast on Coast Access Radio, a Community Access Media Alliance station amplifying the voices of Kāpiti and Horowhenua. Supported by NZ On Air. Visit coastaccessradio.org.nz

A New Zealand Sea Captain has written a thrilling, dystopian novel with an emotional heart, set in a reimagined New Zealand and surrounds, sixty years after a catastrophic war. Catherine sits down with the author Chard Pawley to talk about this fantastic face paced novel. This episode was first broadcast on Coast Access Radio, a Community Access Media Alliance station amplifying the voices of Kāpiti and Horowhenua. Supported by NZ On Air. Visit coastaccessradio.org.nz

A review of Castle Grim by New Zealand author Shaun Barnett, winner of the Storylines Tom Fitzgibbon Award. Set in a near-future Aotearoa where communication systems have collapsed and danger lurks across the Cook Strait, this exciting story follows 12-year-old Herman as he faces pirates, mystery, and courage in a changing world. With themes of friendship, resilience, and adventure, this compelling tale will appeal to young readers and lovers of classic children’s fiction alike. This episode was first broadcast on Coast Access Radio, a Community Access Media Alliance station amplifying the voices of Kāpiti and Horowhenua. Supported by NZ On Air. Visit coastaccessradio.org.nz

So Loved - two beautiful books, crafted for those precious early years with newborns, toddlers and preschoolers. Catherine sits down with their bestselling New Zealand author, Rachel Weston. The So Loved books are thoughtfully written and beautifully illustrated, echoing a clear, simple but profound message; you are loved – so loved. The two books are So Loved: A Treasured Book of Love is the foundation book in the So Loved series. A personalised gift book for newborn babies (and their parent(s), it includes the So Loved story along with gorgeous animal illustrations – from Aotearoa and around the world. The 2nd book, So Loved: Little Book of Love, is an abridged board book for children 0-3yrs and is perfect for little hands to carry and explore. This little book of love has been adapted from the foundation book in the heartwarming So Loved series. Visually captivating with adorable animal babies from Aotearoa and around the world. The book is available now and you can find out more at www.solovedbooks.com This episode was first broadcast on Coast Access Radio, a Community Access Media Alliance station amplifying the voices of Kāpiti and Horowhenua. Supported by NZ On Air. Visit coastaccessradio.org.nz

Animal Detective Nicollette Briggs returns with a new mystery on her hands with a missing dog and whole lot of murder. Another great book from author Rodney Strong who takes us through the streets of Wellington to solve not one, but 2 murders and locate a canine that has become tangled in a web of mystery and deceit. Catherine sits down with Rodney and discusses the book, his writing process and what we can expect from his next book. For more information go to Rodney's website https://www.rodneystrongauthor.com/ This episode was first broadcast on Coast Access Radio, a Community Access Media Alliance station amplifying the voices of Kāpiti and Horowhenua, proudly supported by NZ On Air. Learn more at www.coastaccessradio.org.nz

Superpowers are tested in the second book of three in this super funny series of internationally successful books by Swapna Haddow. Fantastically illustrated by Minky Stapleton, in this book the drama of NO MAC 'N' CHEESE causes havoc. This episode was first broadcast on Coast Access Radio, a Community Access Media Alliance station amplifying the voices of Kāpiti and Horowhenua, proudly supported by NZ On Air. Learn more at www.coastaccessradio.org.nz

40,000 Merchant Marine volunteers lost their lives in the two World Wars, including 27-year-old Colin Watt from Mangere, who was killed in January 1942 when SS Coimbra was torpedoed off Long Island, New York. We speak to Colin's nephew - Colin Carruthers, author of Twice Torpedoed. The book is a beautifully presented hardback, 10 years in the making and includes photographs, articles and letters from the time. While the book is not intended as a military history, Colin does hope that the story will help ensure the contribution made by 140 New Zealand merchant seamen who died in World War II is remembered. To this day, Watt lies on the seabed off the coast of Long Island. This episode was first broadcast on Coast Access Radio, a Community Access Media Alliance station amplifying the voices of Kāpiti and Horowhenua, proudly supported by NZ On Air. Learn more at www.coastaccessradio.org.nz

Underwater Cameraman and documentary maker Andrew Penniket talks about his newly released book Whales, Snails and Lobster Tales. This amazing memoir is full of stories drawn from 50 years of diving adventures. In this interview Andrew shares some of his extraordinary stories of being under the water to give you a taste of what to expect in this beautiful book. The book is an entertaining read with stunning photographs and will appeal to anyone who loves an adventure, is a nature lover or who has an interest in the sea. The book is available now.

Threepence on the Carpet is a new book by NZ family doctor, novelist and filmmaker David Whittet. Catherine sits down with David to talk about how this book came about. As a folksinger touring the UK in the swinging sixties, life was a kaleidoscope of love, truth, and high hopes for Tommy Trevelian—until it all went up in a puff of smoking incense and bitter betrayal. Now he’s back in his homeland of New Zealand, middle-aged, disillusioned, and destitute. The washed-up musician still wants to sing songs and save the world if he could just get his countrymen to turn off the rugby and listen for a moment. The book is available now.

Kim: A Journey Between Worlds by Kim Rangiaonui Logan, Foreword by Peter Hillary. Kim's father was in the 8th Māori Battalion, but returned from war a damaged man, unable to cope with his children. But his son Kim climbed away, literally - Everest, Aorangi Mt Cook, anywhere, to love and contentment. This is Kim’s story of courage and discovery.

Politics, religion, conversation, love, sex, ageing and addiction are all explored in Stephanie Johnson’s brilliant collection of short stories. Join Viv as she talks to Stephanie Johnson, one of New Zealand's most accomplished novelists and short story writers.

Revenge and Rabbit Holes is the latest adult novel from Kapiti Coast's award-winning author, Mandy Hager. She talks to Vivienne about this second book in the Chasing Ghosts mystery series.

Thrilling crime novel from bestselling NZ author Madeleine Eskedahl. Madeleine has done it again with a fabulous thriller. In the latest thrilling crime novel from bestselling NZ author Madeleine Eskedahl, a killer stalks the shadows of a quiet town. There are two victims, one message, and a truth that has been buried since the war. Set in the lush, sun-soaked wine country of New Zealand, the Matakana Series delivers gripping, atmospheric mysteries where small-town charm collides with chilling crimes. Featuring a cast of unforgettable characters and layered investigations that span generations, each novel offers a tense, emotionally rich journey into the heart of a seemingly peaceful community with a dark undercurrent. Perfect for fans of Jane Harper, Ann Cleeves, Camilla Lackberg and Tana French.

Softly Calls the Devil is a dark gripping intricate crime thriller set on the South Island's wild and wooly remote West Coast. Catherine talks with the talented author Chris Blake on how he came up with the book, does his real job as a Detective Senior Sergeant influence his work and where do these dark characters come from? This book is a great read. Listen in to what the author, Chris Blake has to say about the book, the characters and his process in writing the story.

This guide takes you step-by-step to an abundant, naturally healthy, home orchard, and along the way teaches you all the skills you need to be an epic fruit gardener and Catherine had a wonderful chat with the authors - Kath Irvine - organic gardener who has been teaching food growing to Kiwi gardeners for 25 years, and Jason Ross, who runs Habitate, a coastal Otago nursery specialising in heritage fruit trees and edible landscape design. Their book focuses on creating a healthy setup and selecting well-suited varieties. From this solid foundation, fruit trees flourish, care is easy, there are fewer pests and diseases, and most importantly, growing is fun! This inspiring, accessible book is perfect for beginners setting up a new orchard, busy people who want homegrown fruit without the fuss, and seasoned growers seeking deeper knowledge.

100 native flowers of Aotearoa revealed in extraordinary 3D photography in this beautiful hardback book by Philip Garnock-Jones. Catherine talks with Philip to find out how this beautiful book was created. About the book - Aotearoa has at least 2,200 native species of flowering plants that have evolved in our unique conditions, and the vast majority of them grow nowhere else on earth. This has made New Zealand a natural laboratory for studies of flower biology and a vibrant wonderland of gardens and bush for Māori and Pākehā to enjoy. Botanist Philip Garnock-Jones discussed this book with Catherine. The book is available now and is a book to be treasured. Philip is a botanist, emeritus professor and former chair of botany at Te Herenga Waka Victoria University of Wellington.

Kuwi the Kiwi Author Kat Quin Celebrates 10 years of Kuwi & Friends with a beautifully presented Kuwi the Kiwi Treasury. Featuring all five of Kuwi’s bestselling adventures, along with glimpses into Kat Quin’s artistic and story-making process. Kat joins us at Coast Access Radio to talk about her writing process and what is has been like creating these adorable stories for her many fans. The Kuwi collection is a true treasure trove of stunning, simple, and playful stories for young readers. While every story shines on its own, together they create a wonderfully cohesive and captivating collection. Stories included: Kuwi’s First Egg, Kuwi’s Huhu Hunt, Kuwi’s Very Shiny Bum, Kuwi’s Rowdy Crowd and Kuwi’s Fluey Huwi.

Peta Mathias joins us to talk about her new book 'It's been six weeks since my last confession". In this, her 19th book, Peta regales her readers with indiscreet stories from her life - how to deal with anger and temps perdu, why it's not a sin to wear black underwear, how eating sun-drenched food will keep you young and beautiful forever, how to open your eyes with a knife and what happens when you go on holiday with five A-types. "It's been six weeks since my last confession" is just glorious. It makes you think about what is good in life, love and food. This is a laugh out loud book that will have you rolling about one minute and running to the kitchen the next - full of inspiration to make something fabulously simple and delicious. Peta's hilarious wit and charm is present in every page.

Award-winning children’s book author Suzanne Main releases her much-anticipated third junior fiction novel! Something is making a racket in the attic! Since the mysterious disappearance of their parents, Willow and Hunter have been living with their grandfather in his creaky old house. But Grandpa’s memory is fading fast, and the twins dread the prospect of being placed into foster homes. The Hatchling is a gripping, fast-paced adventure story brimming with fantastical characters. But most of all it’s about family, the joy of belonging, and the importance of finding your way home.

Annelies Judson, Auckland based children’s writer, talks to Vivienne about her latest picture book, Turkey Hurly-Burly, an entertaining rhyming tale where one simple classroom decision pet decision spirals into schoolyard chaos.

Catherine speaks to American author Bonivon Dyer about her book - 13 years in the making, that plants us into a story 600 years past the earth that is 70 years from now - a dystopian novel where we self destruct thanks to our selfish and power hungry future, but having enough foresight to preserve a number of people to be awoken again in the future - into a world where we meet magical characters, twists and turns and every changing worlds, bizarre gifts and strange beings. This is creativity on steroids. For six centuries, the utopia of Elusis has thrived - a society of supernatural Gifts, peace, and prosperity. But beneath the surface, secrets stir. Arkarian Story, a long-lost warlord, lies frozen in a hidden cryo tank, his name a whisper of fear and rebellion. His awakening could destroy everything. You will need to buy this book and devour it! Showcasing Kiwi and Aussie books with author interviews, story excerpts and special guest narraters in this engaging, entertaining and educational show.

Author Swapna Haddow talks to Catherine about her hilarious new book - The Terrible Trio - The (not so) Superheroes. In a world where all animals have superpowers, Zeb the zebra, Margarine the penguin, and Barry the lemur have the WORST powers of all. Terrible Trio books are written by Swapna, an award-winning children’s author, and illustrated by multi-faceted illustrator and designer, Minky Stapleton. The Terrible Trio books are a fun illustrated series, best described as ‘The Bad Guys’ meets ‘Madagascar’! Showcasing Kiwi and Aussie books with author interviews, story excerpts and special guest narraters in this engaging, entertaining and educational show.

Jodie Shelley releases her third engaging kiwi novel - Zoe & Mila. In this book she is challenging societal beauty standards with her humorous style. Catherine sits down with Jodie to discuss how this book came about, an insight into the characters and brings up some questions around self image and pressures felt by women. Showcasing Kiwi and Aussie books with author interviews, story excerpts and special guest narraters in this engaging, entertaining and educational show.

Ghost Kiwi - Viv sits down with award-winning author and illustrator Ruth Paul to talk about her first junior fiction book. When her grandfather Rex is hospitalised, 11-year-old Ruby retreats to the forest with her trusty dog sidekick and a weird old doll she wants to get rid of. Near the treehouse built by Rex, she discovers a kiwi burrow. And is that a white kiwi chick she sees? Ruby and her friend Spider uncover a plot by the local vet to catch the white kiwi for an international smuggling ring. Together with a social misfit, who is both ex-convict and nature lover – and perhaps some mystical help from the local patupaiarehe – they manage to expose and catch the crooked vet. This well-crafted, compelling story weaves two cultures in anintriguing mystery adventure, spiced with Kiwi banter and humour. With trees that hold hands and friends that bridge cultures, the story takes us from deep inside a kiwi burrow to a town where families work together to protect a taonga of Tāne Mahuta – a precious white kiwi chick named Rākaunui, after the full moon. Ghost Kiwi features themes of family relationships, friendship, conservation, mental health and the supernatural.

Author and craftsman Stephen Myhre talks about his new guide to wood carving for New Zealanders - Wood Carving : Tools, Techniques & Concepts. This how-to guide covers every aspect of wood carving from selecting the right wood to understanding patterns and achieving the perfect finish. Stephen Myhre is a renowned artist who has been carving in wood, jade, bone and other materials since the 1970s. After many years living overseas and absorbing a range of Pacific, European and Asian influences, he now has his studio in Paraparaumu Beach. Showcasing Kiwi and Aussie books with author interviews, story excerpts and special guest narraters in this engaging, entertaining and educational show.

Vivienne talks to Wellington-based writer, Jennifer Trevelyan about her mystery/ family saga debut novel, A Beautiful Family. Set on the Kapiti Coast, the book has been getting huge international attention with film rights picked up by Niki Caro (Whale Rider). Showcasing Kiwi and Aussie books with author interviews, story excerpts and special guest narraters in this engaging, entertaining and educational show.

Catherine speaks with kiwi author WJ Moloney about his new book "What do you do all day?" What does a wealthy Auckland stay-at-home mother andwife do all day? What really goes on when the cat's away? On the surface, Sam has everything any woman should want: a successful husband, a nice house, a holiday home, two lovely kids, and a desirable, expensive car. Yet Sam is frustrated and unfulfilled. When her usual distractions fail her, she retraces the steps of how her life turned out like it has. Showcasing Kiwi and Aussie books with author interviews, story excerpts and special guest narraters in this engaging, entertaining and educational show.

Vivienne talks to Auckland-based author, Katie Furze about her recently released children’s non-fiction picture book, Pekapeka, Secret Forest Bat, published by Scholastic NZ. Showcasing Kiwi and Aussie books with author interviews, story excerpts and special guest narraters in this engaging, entertaining and educational show.

Terrier, Worrier - A Poem in 5 Part. This book is a luminous exploration of thought by one of our most distinguished poets. Part autobiography of thought, part philosophical tract, part poetics, a book about chickens and family and seasons, Terrier, Worrier is a literary sequence to be relished as language and as thought. Showcasing Kiwi and Aussie books with author interviews, story excerpts and special guest narraters in this engaging, entertaining and educational show.

Vivienne chats to New Zealand author, Kirsty Powell about her recently released novel, The Strength of Old Shale, a stand-alone sequel to The Strength of Eggshells, winner of the 2020 New Zealand Booklovers Fiction Awards. Her story weaves two worlds together in a blend of New Zealand’s goldmining history, family saga and contemporary fiction. Showcasing Kiwi and Aussie books with author interviews, story excerpts and special guest narraters in this engaging, entertaining and educational show.

Kirsten Le Harivel and Cerid Jones talk about the upcoming Bookmark Kapiti Book And Community Festival coming to multiple Kapiti venues on 9 and 10 August Showcasing Kiwi and Aussie books with author interviews, story excerpts and special guest narraters in this engaging, entertaining and educational show.

Is My Worry Worth Worrying About? by debut author Becky Overeem is a beautifully illustrated story that helps young readers navigate anxiety and find calm. With Sarah Trolle’s stunning artwork, the book delves into the overwhelming world of childhood worries through a heartfelt narrative that empowers children to face their fears. This picture book goes beyond storytelling, offering a dedicated section for children, parents and caregivers with practical tools to help families navigate challenges together. Perfect for homes, classrooms, and mental health discussions, Is My Worry Worth Worrying About? is both a comforting story and a valuable resource for growing minds. You can pre order the book at Becky's website - www.bexteachingresources.com/books

Catherine sits down with The wonderful Stranges author Melanie Koster and her daughter Monica Koster who beautifully illustrated this lovely book, The Wonderful Stranges is a story about inclusion; being open minded and how accepting others just as they are can be an enriching experience. It is a celebration of creativity, imagination and innovation. The Strange family embrace the arts and sciences, with inventions, including some for sustainable living. Accompanied by glorious, whimsical illustrations, this delightful book with themes of kindness and acceptance, that draws attention to climate change is a very timely book. Melanie Koster wrote the first draft of The Wonderful Stranges in 2011, in the aftermath of the Christchurch earthquakes. The story had some success in various writing competitions and was then shelved in the bottom drawer. After a little tweaking, the story was ready to see the light of day again and she thinks its message is more relevant now than ever. Melanie Koster has been shortlisted six times for the Joy Cowley Award finally winning in 2022. She haswritten many children’s books including Elephant Park, Tama and the Taniwha and Milly Maloo and the Miracle Glue. Monica Koster is an artist and illustrator who has just completed a Bachelor of Fine Arts with Honours at the University of Canterbury. Her paintings have been exhibited in Christchurch and Ashburton as part of the Creator’s Room and ZONTA Female Art Awards Exhibitions.

Vividwater, envisions a chillingly plausible future Aotearoa where water is a luxury commodity, and survival hinges on access to this precious resource. Through the lens of Alex, a "mnemopath" navigating a society teetering on collapse, Jacqueline crafts a narrative that is both thought-provoking and eerily resonant with contemporary global challenges. Jacqueline Owens is a Wellington-based writer whose latest novel is a richly imagined dystopian fiction - Vividwater Showcasing Kiwi and Aussie books with author interviews, story excerpts and special guest narraters in this engaging, entertaining and educational show.

Catherine reviewed this delightful children's book by Leonie Agnew. The Only Dinosaur in School is a delightful and imaginative story that combines humour, heart, and a touch of chaos - perfectly suited for young readers and anyone who remembers the awkwardness of standing out. Showcasing Kiwi and Aussie books with author interviews, story excerpts and special guest narraters in this engaging, entertaining and educational show.

This is a true New Zealand story. Colleen intended writing this story 15 years ago, but was side-tracked by the material she uncovered while researching the story. She turned that information into ‘The Bulford Kiwi. The Kiwi we left behind.’ Now, it’s time to tell the children’s version of that story – ‘The Biggest Kiwi in the World’. Illustrated by Emma Lay the book cleverly takes the reader back in time through the use of sepia images, while former British soldier Danny Fisher narrates the story to his granddaughter Pru. Danny Fisher, his grand-daughter Pru, and his dog Kiwi takes the reader back in time ... to 1919 when our national emblem – the KIWI – was carved into the chalky slopes of Beacon Hill, above Sling Camp in Southern England by NZ soldiers at the end of WW1. This Kiwi was saved from extinction by Danny and his Arctic Warrior team in 1980. Now our Kiwi is a protected Heritage England monument, still standing proudly on Beacon Hill. Colleen believes that these stories are important in shaping our country and we need to tell them proudly. You can find Colleens books here at https://www.colleenbrownbooks.com/books

Catherine sits down with Wellington based author Rodney Strong to talk about his latest book, Three Dogs, Two Murders and a Cat. This is part of a new mystery series and is a fabulous crime novel - that is unputdownable. Its the type of book you want to take away on holiday, to sit down in a comfy chair in front of the fire with or just to have a great read. A face paced and surprising novel about an animal detective, based in recognisable streets and suburbs of Wellington. In the opening pages of this excellent cosy crime novel, the reader learns that Nicolette Briggs doesn’t do humans. But she does do animals, which is a good thing, as she is Wellington’s premier, and possibly only, animal detective. She investigates missing pets and cases of animal cruelty. Her latest case is one of a poisoned cat, who thankfully survived, but her client wants to know what happened. This is exactly the type of case that Nicolette excels in, but then human bodies start showing up. Before she knows it, Nicolette is smack bang centre in the middle of two murder investigations.

Vivienne Bailey talks with Stef Harris about his new book The Girl From Sarajevo Showcasing Kiwi and Aussie books with author interviews, story excerpts and special guest narraters in this engaging, entertaining and educational show.

John Skene talks about his new book “Aviation Tales”, based on a selection of programmes originally presented on Coast Access Radio in the “Aviation Past and Present” series.

Catherine speaks to the author of the Elastic Island Adventures books about her new book "Plantation Island Resort" and there is a chance to win a $5000 accommodation package Showcasing Kiwi and Aussie books with author interviews, story excerpts and special guest narraters in this engaging, entertaining and educational show.

Catherine talks to Mukpuddy co-founder Ryan Cooper about bringing Badjelly back to the bookshelves and onto the screen. For those who remember the iconic story from Spike Milligan, there is a wonderful reimagined book available now written by Ryan Cooper. For those who are new to this iconic tale, the classic tale is of a lost cow, a mysterious forest and a sinister sorceress. The series is available to watch now on TVNZ+ and features the voices of Miriam Margolyes, Rhys Darby & Rose Matafeo. In this chat, we get the background of how this project was able to get going, why our innovative Kiwis were given permission to get the project off the ground - and Catherine will be giving a copy the book away.

Patricia Donovan is the author of three previous novels, including The Remarkable Miss Digby which in 2022 was shortlisted for a NZ Booklovers Award. Rita Vegas continues her notable exploration of genre. Patricia says that while her novels span numerous genres, they do share a common theme: a woman’s journey and her quest, in the face of obstacles, to find her strengths and make her way in the world. Patricia lives on the Kapiti Coast. More information at www.patriciadonovan.nz Showcasing Kiwi and Aussie books with author interviews, story excerpts and special guest narraters in this engaging, entertaining and educational show.

Vivienne spoke to New Zealand children’s author, Melinda Szymanik about her latest picture book, BatKiwi and the Big Wet. It is the third in the BatKiwi series, which introduces a variety of Aotearoa’s forest creatures and sees BatKiwi, the superhero duo again come to the rescue. Showcasing Kiwi and Aussie books with author interviews, story excerpts and special guest narraters in this engaging, entertaining and educational show.

Viv chats with local author Katie Adams, about her trilogy, with part 2 due to be published in March 2025 and Viv reads extracts from the already published part 1. Showcasing Kiwi and Aussie books with author interviews, story excerpts and special guest narraters in this engaging, entertaining and educational show.

With her cousins visiting from overseas, Lily shares her magical bridge ... and this time they venture further than Australia. Where do you think they will visit and what do you think they will see? Following the success of Kiwis and Koalas, Bridge to Anywhere is the much-anticipated sequel—another charming and whimsical tale of love, loss and bridging the distance between the people and places we miss. A quarter of New Zealanders are estimated to be foreign-born according to StatsNZ, so this book will resonate with many New Zealanders.

Narrated by Sue Scott, here is the story of Thomas the goose. The rainbow relationship of Thomas the goose and Henry the black swan received worldwide fame in February of 2018 when Thomas, the blind, bisexual goose passed away and was buried next to his partner of nearly thirty years, a black swan named Henry. Headlines appeared in news columns as far as the UK and America including the BBC News, Daily Mail and even a mention on The Ellen Show in the US! Showcasing Kiwi and Aussie books with author interviews, story excerpts and special guest narraters in this engaging, entertaining and educational show.

Peter Shaw first went to Japan in 1989, staying in Tokyo for only two days. Surprised at how little he knew or understood, he determined to return. Since 2000 he has visited Japan every year, sometimes twice, in search of answers to his questions about the country’s culture: its art, architecture, food, religion, history and people. This book is the result. Accompanied by many photographs, it conveys his feelings and thoughts about a unique culture which can seem strange to non-Japanese people. Drawing similarities with his own country, Aotearoa New Zealand, this book is written for the enjoyment of all who want to follow in his footsteps. Showcasing Kiwi and Aussie books with author interviews, story excerpts and special guest narraters in this engaging, entertaining and educational show.

Elephant Park by Melanie Koster and Jenny Cooper An ode to the beloved Elephant Park in this poignant story for children. Generations of children have played on the trusty elephant slide in the park. But now her tusks are broken, her paint is cracked and her bones are weary. Even her pink toenails have lost their shine. Children visiting the park run instead to the shiny new playground equipment. But Elephant’s sad face captures the heart of one little boy, who invites her home with him. There, Noah discovers that his dad also played on the elephant slide as a boy! Together, they decide to give Ellie a makeover. The author was inspired by a real elephant slide that sits in a playground in Bishopdale in Christchurch and has become an icon for the community since it was built in the late 1970s. This is a poignant story that will tug on the heartstrings that is beautifully illustrated by one of NZ’s top children’s illustrators, Jenny Cooper, who captures the pathos and infuses the story with joy. Showcasing Kiwi and Aussie books with author interviews, story excerpts and special guest narraters in this engaging, entertaining and educational show.

Today Viv Bailey talks with Kapiti local author Mandy Hager about her new book, Strays and Waifs. We are also tempted further into reading the book by a reading from Mandy. Showcasing Kiwi and Aussie books with author interviews, story excerpts and special guest narraters in this engaging, entertaining and educational show.