Freddie Jones: The Mystery of the Troublesome Trees (Kate Foster, Walker)

Freddie Jones is an adventurer at heart. The first in a new series by award-winning author Kate Foster (Harriet Hound), Freddie Jones: The Mystery of the Troublesome Trees is a humorous and intriguing middle-grade adventure with plenty of quirk and a whole lot of heart. When Freddie’s parents take a job at a resort with a mysterious “tree problem”, they bring him along for his first-ever holiday, with his assistance dog, Hobnob, and eccentric and chaotic Grandma Lilly. Set amid the spectacular Daintree Rainforest, the story unfolds through Freddie’s inquisitive, detail-oriented perspective as he navigates family, curiosity and a newfound fascination with cassowaries. Readers learn early on that Freddie is autistic – something he discusses candidly and often. His clear understanding of how his brain works offers readers insight into how some autistic people experience the world. One of the book’s strengths is Freddie’s vivid internal monologue – a constant stream of anxious thoughts, sharp observations and deep empathy. These traits, shaped by his neurodivergence, may feel intense to some readers, but will be recognisable and perhaps affirming to others. This thoughtful portrayal sits alongside a genuinely adventurous plot, making Freddie Jones: The Mystery of the Troublesome Trees an excellent choice for readers aged 8 and over. With the promise of more books in the series, the further adventures of Freddie Jones will be eagerly anticipated.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Chloe Bleakley is a freelance reviewer and writer currently working in libraries. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

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