Curious to know exactly what work has been brought home Zola takes a sneaky peak into the neighbours garden and is relieved to find a fluffy non-criminal. Leo’s mum is a police officer and if she’s brought her work home with her that could mean a robber or a dangerous criminal and everyone on Boomerang Street will be in danger. When next-door-neighbour Leo’s mum brings her work home with her Zola is extremely worried. Nonna’s life is getting busier too and she is making lots of new friends at the weekly knitting meets where ladies get together to drink tea, eat yummy treats and maybe do a bit of knitting. On Monday she helps out at the garden project at her school and on Tuesday’s she enjoys playing with her cousin Allesandro and the neighbours Omar and Bianca. For ages 5+.īronte Coates is the digital content manager and the Readings Prizes manager.Zola’s adventures show the importance of community and how simple projects and activities can bring people from all backgrounds together. Plus, What Zola Did on Monday is the first book in a seven-part series (each named for a day of the week), which means kids will be able to read along with Zola’s adventures as they get more and more comfortable reading independently. I also love how this book gently promotes environmental themes, from the way Nonna uses shower water on her capsicums, to a brief DIY section showing kids how to grow their own tomatoes. Her text is simple but engaging, and nicely paired with endearing illustrations from newcomer Deb Hudson.

Marchetta’s warm storytelling style really shines for this age group. This is the first children’s book from Melina Marchetta and it is an assured offering. Nonna maintains the home’s thriving garden, but Zola cannot see what is so great about it – that is, until a neglected community patch, some special seeds, and an accident involving two lovable dogs deepens her understanding. Bright, determined Zola lives together with her mother and her nonna, and just over the fence from her cousin Alessandro.

What Zola Did on Monday is a beautiful, heartwarming story for beginner readers.

What zola did on monday