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. She has been drawing and creating since she was a little girl and lives in the fabulous city of Melbourne with her husband, three kids, energetic border collie and a bright yellow canary.What Zola Did on Monday is a beautiful, heartwarming story for beginner readers. Deb Hudson (Illustrator) Deb Hudson is passionate about drawing bright, happy and colourful images that evoke emotion and thought in the viewer - the dreamy, joy- and wonder-filled moments of the everyday. Her most recent novel is The Place on Dalhousie. Printz Award from the American Library Association. In 2009 Marchetta won the prestigious Michael L. Her much-loved Australian classic Looking for Alibrandi swept the pool of literary awards when it was published, and was also released as a film, adapted by Marchetta, winning an AFI Award and an Independent Film Award for best screenplay, as well as the New South Wales Premier's Literary Award and the Film Critics Circle of Australia Award. Her eighteen books range from beloved young adult fiction and fantasy through to contemporary and crime fiction, and works for younger readers. Melina Marchetta (Author) Melina Marchetta is an internationally bestselling and award-winning author in more than twenty countries and eighteen languages.

What zola did on monday