Autumn 2025 Book Reviews with little Unity in Auckland

The Sad Ghost Club

This graphic novel series is dedicated to anyone who feels like the world is out to get them and is looking for “kindred spirits”. The ghost metaphors are plentiful and the simple illustrations of everyday situations and fabulously dry text creates a serious(ly) cute representation of the subtleties of anxiety. Our ghostly charge is Sam and there is much to recognise as he fumbles through his daily turmoil, while also appreciating how differently mental health affects us all. There are currently four volumes in the series as well as a guide to getting through tough days. Join the Sad Ghost Club now for some instant good feelings. / Roger Christensen

Milo the Knight

With his steed, a harnessed snail, Milo scrupulously protects his colony from dragons (okay, no one’s seen one in 10,000 years but Milo takes his knighthood seriously). This charming fable is set in a medieval-themed insect world, with castles, jesters and knights, all clad in colourful, patterned outfits. The drawings are completely breathtaking, I gasped when I opened the book for the first time. They’re inspired by old manuscripts with gothic lettering and plants creeping around the edges of each page. Nestled within the greenery is a little insect troubadour, our narrator. Milo upholds his duty while envying the court jesters’ ability to dance and play, until a rainstorm rusts his armour and he realises maybe his vigilance and hard exterior was prohibiting him from experiencing life and all its jewel toned, coloured pencil wonder. A spectacular little picture book about the power of vulnerability, an insect colony, and a fearsome dragon. / Elka Aitchison

Bearmouth
A dark and dystopian tale, this feels like a deep dive into a Dickensian social commentary, where the boys and men are being exploited in the grimy, claustrophobic confines of the Bearmouth mine. We are immersed in the world of Newt, our protagonist, who has grown up in the mine since they were four. Hyder renders a harsh, gritty setting for a novel that centres on the friendship and camaraderie between a group of men and boys who know little of the daylight above them or why they are even there, until a new arrival to the mine begins to question their situation. This is a truly thought provoking and atmospheric fable of hope in dark times. / RC

The Wolves of Willoughby Chase

An alternate Victorian England full of wicked governesses, wretched orphanages, spirited girls, and secret passages – what more could you want from a middle-grade read? The timid Sylvia is sent to live with her cousin, Bonnie, at Willoughby Hall. When Bonnie’s parents go on a sea voyage, the ghastly Miss Slighcarp arrives, and the girls are sunk in despair. A series of ill-fated events sends them walking all the way to London – a two-month journey. It’s a vivid adventure filled with moors, icy landscapes, and wolves prowling the countryside. Aiken’s writing is a love letter to Victorian or Dickensian literature, with deliciously old-fashioned names and characters who are either sweet as pie or as wicked as possible. Who better to illustrate the cover of this moody tale than Edward Gorey? His illustration sets off the book perfectly. An all-you-can-eat feast for kids whose imaginations run wild. / EA

Bear & Bird

Bear and Bird are a modern take on the classic odd couple duo, like Frog and Toad. It’s gently philosophical but mostly a witty, light-hearted book with gorgeously playful, colourful illustrations. Their friendship is full of fun, but also includes moments of tension, such as misunderstandings, secrets and white lies. Each of the four stories focuses on a challenge the two tackle together or a minor conflict they need to resolve. The illustrations are filled with delightful and funny details – like book covers, notes, and signs. Every picture brings the scene to life, and every expression and mannerism adds another layer to the characters’ personalities. A lovely read, particularly for kids who are emotionally aware and love a happy ending. Also, a great stepping stone from picture books to chapter books. / EA