PERHAPS A GIFT VOUCHER FOR MUM?: MOTHER'S DAY
Doris Brett is a writer and clinical psychologist. She lives in Melbourne and is so altruistic that she keeps her house permanently messy in order that visiting friends may immediately feel relaxed and virtuous as they compare their homes to hers. Her books have ranged across a number of genres - poetry, fiction, psychology, memoir - and her poetry has won a number of the country's major literary awards. Her books on helping children deal with challenges through therapeutic storytelling (Annie Stories and More Annie Stories) have been widely acclaimed and published worldwide. Philomella and The Impossible Forest is her first full-length fantasy novel for children.
'[Philomella’s] exactly the hero we need right now. Facing a variety of dangers and challenges with a large amount of empathy and creativity, Philomella acts as a timely reminder not to underestimate kindness in the face of danger, and the importance of looking beneath the surface of those around us.' – Bec Kavanagh, Books + Publishing 'A fast-paced adventure ... readers will find themselves engrossed and captivated with Philomella and her friends. It’s empathy, kindness, and compassion that make Philomella (and this story) memorable and special.' – Jennifer Fraioli, Readings 'Gave me some serious Magic Faraway Tree vibes! [Features] a varied cast of characters, each with diverse personalities and backstories, [and] gentle themes about the importance of creativity and empathy in the face of difficult situations.' – Smallhandsreads 'A terrific story where the fantastic and magical adventure faced by our main character, Philomella, teaches her the importance of bravery and facing your fears.' – Lamont Books 'Doris Brett is a clinical psychologist, and her knowledge and ability to discuss emotions were apparent throughout the book. As a psychologist who has worked with children, I enjoyed how certain themes are weaved into the fantasy. If I had read this as a child, little me would have loved this. I would have identified with Philomella’s insistence on her ordinariness and hoped I had her compassion and courage.' – Priscilla, NovelFeelings.com 'A delightful exploration of what it is to be yourself and how to let go of anger and to forgive.' – @OneMorePageAu 'There is some wonderful word play, and it is an all-around enjoyable read. Perfect for younger readers but will easily be enjoyed into early high school. There are so many intertextual references that it would make a wonderful book study or classroom read-aloud.' – Melanie Mengel, @BugAndBeeAndMe
