The Mighty Pipsqueak (Poppy & Pipsqueak #1) (Deborah Kelly, illus Amie Sabadin, Wombat)

The Mighty Pipsqueak is the first charming book in the Poppy & Pipsqueak series by Deborah Kelly for readers aged 6 to 10. Poppy lives on a farm with her parents. Born prematurely, she wears glasses and a hearing aid. When the family’s border collie, Jessie, has a litter of puppies, Poppy becomes determined to save the runt and raise her into a capable farm dog. She names the tiny pup Pipsqueak and sets out to prove that size isn’t everything. The story balances the practical realities of farm life and parental decision-making with a child’s hope and determination. At its core is an encouraging message for young readers about resilience, self-belief and overcoming challenges. Short chapters and a simple, linear storyline make the book highly accessible, particularly for emerging independent readers. There is a comforting warmth to both the language and the narrative. The setting feels distinctly Australian without leaning into stereotypes, and factual information – such as dogs being born deaf and developing hearing around three weeks old – is woven seamlessly into the story. Amie Sabadin’s sweet, monochrome illustrations add a warm, gentle visual interest. Representation is handled thoughtfully, with Poppy’s glasses, hearing aids and premature birth acknowledged in a matter-of-fact, normalising way. With echoes of Charlotte’s Web in its focus on compassion and perseverance, The Mighty Pipsqueak will appeal to readers who enjoy animal stories with heart.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Jess Lomas is the reviews editor at Books+Publishing. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

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