Rich and Rare (ed by Paul Collins, Ford Street)

Paul Collins has assembled a who’s who of Australian YA in Rich and Rare. Over 40 authors and illustrators have contributed to this hefty volume, with contributions ranging from a paragraph to more than 35 pages, each featuring a spot illustration. As well as prose stories across an array of genres, there is also poetry and a fully illustrated story by Leigh Hobbs. There is truly something for everyone in this collection. Genres include fantasy, science-fiction, horror, romance, humour, historical, crime and contemporary stories, with settings from fantasy worlds to feudal Japan, Mexico, tribal Africa, WWII Europe and suburban Australia. Among the authors are Sofie Laguna, Shaun Tan, Kerry Greenwood, Michael Pryor, Gabrielle Wang, Gary Crew, Lucy Sussex, Oliver Phommavanh, James Roy, Deborah Abela, Phillip Gwynne, and many more. That this review feels a more like a list is a testament to the depth and breadth of this collection. This is a fantastic introduction to the wide world of Australian authors, and readers are sure to find new favourites. Be aware that some stories tackle highly emotive topics, and some have elements of horror. This is highly recommended for younger secondary school readers.

Heath Graham is a teacher and former bookseller

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Category: Reviews