Our Islands, Our Selves. A History of Conservation in New Zealand, David Young
University of Otago Press
Reviewed by Lindsay Wright (Courtesy of Taranaki Daily News)
The pen has often been much mightier than the chainsaw during the history of this country's conservation movement – and that pen has often been in the hand of David Young.
During his 12 years at the New Zealand Listener, or his excellent geographical history of the Whanganui – Faces of the River – and subsequent books, Young has written about the connection between New Zealanders and their land. His work has brought several important conservation issues into the public eye.
Full review here
Out Walked Mel, Paula Boock
and
On a Good Day, Deborah Burnside
Longacre Press
Penguin
Reviewed by Tess Novak (Courtesy of Taranaki Daily News)
Mel, the main character in Out Walked Mel, is running away from life, not wanting to stay in school or be truly honest with herself.
Lee, the heroine in On a Good Day, would like nothing better than to settle down, straighten out her alcoholic mother and welcome into the family her absent father.
Full review here