News and Reviews

Lucy the Good has been released in Australia to much fanfare, whooping and applause (and that was just the author). Marianne hopes this book will be the first in a series of Lucy books. It will soon be published in the USA.

The Worry Tree was shortlisted for the 2007 National Children’s Peace Literature Award, the 2008 SA Festival Award for Children's Literature, and the 2008 Speech Pathology Australia Children's Book of the Year. It is on the list for the South Australian Premier’s Reading Challenge.

The Worry Tree is in its third printing in less than twelve months and will be released in the USA in September 2008. Translations into German, Italian and Bahasa are soon to follow.

Reviews of Lucy the Good:

'Lucy is a very likeable heroine, rather like a modern day Judy from Seven Little Australians - certainly in the tradition of gutsy girls trying to find solutions to their problems. I am sure all readers will identify with her struggles and enjoy the pace and humour of this story. I particularly liked the inter-generational and inter- cultural themes - and the tantalising sub-plot of Lucy's yes/no friendship with Paolo.'
-- Julie Thorndyke, librarian and writer

Reviews of The Worry Tree:

'This first novel by a new Adelaide author is a delight. Fresh, funny and gently wise, it is full of memorable characters ... '
**** Four stars
-- Katharine England, The Adelaide Advertiser

'Musgrove's writing is sensitive, with subtle humour and utterly charming characters ... Musgrove's debut marks the arrival of yet another talented Australian children's author.'
-- Angie Schiavone, The Sydney Morning Herald

'Told with a light and humorous touch, this story actually covers in a very realistic way many of the situations that worry and upset young children. I think it's rather a little gem.'
-- Val van Putten, Children's Book Council of Australia (SA branch) newsletter editor

'Musgrove's debut novel looks at an important issue, with lots of laughs and a good understanding of her protagonist's dilemmas.'
-- Amanda Holohan, The Sun Herald

'... many readers seeking comfort will find it here.'
-- Frances Atkinson, The Age