It's that dreaded time of year . . . buying gifts for all the loved ones in your life! And the hardest people to buy for are always the kids. Yes, you were a kid once, but I'm sorry to say it, the things you loved as a child probably aren't cool anymore . . .

But never fear! I'm here with a collection of gift ideas to make sure you win best aunt/uncle this Christmas.

Landovel by Emily Rodda

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By far and away our bestselling translated fiction for 2024 has been Asako Yuzuki's Butter, translated from Japanese by Polly Barton. In fact, as you'll notice below, Japanese fiction in general has been increasing in popularity from publishers and readers alike. You'll also find wonderful books translated from French, German, Italian, Spanish, Polish and Icelandic, rounding up a stellar year!

Butter by Asako Yuzuki, translated from Japanese by Polly Barton

Manako Kajii sits in Tokyo Detention Centre convicted of…

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Looking for a new book but your TBR is so long you don't know where to start? Turn to the stars, and let your astrological sign decide for you!

If you're an Aries you should read:

The Dagger and the Flame by Catherine Doyle

Aries are typically fiery, passionate, competitive and more than a little impulsive. If you think that sounds like most romantasy heroines, then I agree! Which is why The Dagger and the Flame is a great read…

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If you're interested in the Roman Empire or World War II, there are plenty of books out there to answer every question you might have. But if you're keen to wander off the beaten path and explore some more niche areas of history, these are the books for you! From Australia's culinary identity to the infamous sale of the first bible, to an exploration of hypochondria, these authors have done a deep dive and put together fascinating accounts of history's…

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Did you know the kids titles in each of our shops are thoughtfully selected by our Children's Specialists? They're talented booksellers with a passion for helping young readers find amazing books.

Now you can get to know the children's specialist for your local shop!

Meet Kim!

Which shop do you buy for?

St Kilda

As a Children’s Specialist, what gets you most excited about a new book?

I love to see high quality, thoughtful publishing that is unique. Books that…

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Whether you're an enthusiastic home chef who loves to experiment in the kitchen, or a reluctant cook who may or may not have burned a boiled egg, our shelves are packed with brilliant cookbooks for all kinds of people. Discover some of our favourite recommendations below!

For the person who just wants the recipe to work right every time . . .

RecipeTin Eats: Tonight by Nagi Maehashi

Legendary Australian food sensation Nagi Maehashi is known for testing and retesting…

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The winners of this year's National Book Awards have been announced! Since 1950, the National Book Awards have been celebrating the best writing in America.

Fiction

James by Percival Everett

The Mississippi River, 1861. When the enslaved Jim overhears that he is about to be sold to a new owner in New Orleans and separated from his wife and daughter forever, he decides to hide on nearby Jackson's Island until he can formulate a plan. Meanwhile, Huck Finn has faked…

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As a UNESCO City of Literature, Melbourne Naarm has a proud history when it comes to literary endeavours. It houses Australia's oldest public library, State Library Victoria; The Wheeler Centre, a vibrant hub for a diverse range of organisations focused on literature and ideas; was home to Cole's Book Arcade, the world's largest bookshop of its time; and of course Readings (and numerous other bookshops) has also played an important role over more than five decades…

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2024 has been a great year for Australian fiction, with new releases from beloved authors like Tim Winton, Robbie Arnott, Liane Moriarty and Anita Heiss; but there have also been lots of incredible new books from first-time authors who you might not have heard of. Here are our top picks for amazing debuts that you need to be sure not to miss and new authors you should keep your eye on!

Big Time by Jordan Prosser

Big…

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So you've got a crush, but you're not sure how to let the person know? Well good news! I have the perfect collection of books and gifts to help get the message across this holiday season! From the obvious to the subtle, you're sure to find something to make it clear how you feel.

Poems for Love

Ready to just take a leap of faith and make it abundantly clear how you feel? Then really, you can't go past a…

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