ALA Booklist (Wed Feb 01 00:00:00 CST 2017)

In this unusual anthology, 31 writers reflect on the books that "made them" as readers and as writers. The authors of these short personal essays hail mainly from Australia, with a few from New Zealand and England. Contributors include Markus Zusak, Kate Constable, Alison Croggon, and Mal Peet, though authors less well known in North America contributed several of the liveliest and most absorbing chapters. Illustrations include a photo of each writer as a child or teen, as well as many cartoonlike drawings by Tan, whose essay discusses artists as well as authors as influences. The chapters vary in length and approach, with many writers discussing multiple pivotal books, and one, Will Kostakis, telling the story of how an assignment to read Gary Paulsen's Hatchet (1987) made him a writer, even though he "only read about six pages." The handy "Books Mentioned in the Collection" index offers a fine way to discover kindred spirits among authors. A good discussion starter among readers, this volume will intrigue many fans of children's and young adult books.

Kirkus Reviews

Familiar children's and teen authors reminisce about the books that set them on their paths toward becoming writers.For Simmone Howell, books were a road map for how to find romance. For Benjamin Law, they were the assurance that humor is buried in even the most tragic situations. For Brigid Lowry, stories were an escape from her chaotic and sometimes-tragic life. Whether inspired by classics like Dr. Seuss, Tolkien, or Dahl or paperback favorites penned by Francine Pascal or V.C. Andrews, authors talk candidly about their love of stories and how they changed their lives. Young would-be authors, ardent bibliophiles, and fans of autobiographies will enjoy the intimate look at the many paths that lead to writing as well as the many ways stories affect readers. While the list of authors leans heavily toward Australians and New Zealanders (editor Ridge is Australian), creators such as Shaun Tan and Markus Zusak are known worldwide. Pencil drawings by Tan as well as photographs of the authors when they were young are visually engaging. Short biographies are included, giving further background on each author. Somewhat limited in its appeal, this will likely be a favorite for those wanting a glimpse into the secret world of writers as well as a handy resource for book reports. Candid and inspirational. (Nonfiction. 14 & up)

Publishers Weekly (Fri Oct 06 00:00:00 CDT 2023)

In a volume originally published in Australia, Ridge asked more than 30 writers (including Ted Dawe, Ursula Dubosarsky, Ambelin Kwaymullina, Jaclyn Moriarty, Mal Peet, and Markus Zusak) to share the book that -made them readers, made them writers-made them the person they are today.- Mandy Hager quotes George Orwell on the importance of -political purpose- as a motivation for his writing, while explaining how 1984 outraged and galvanized her -to make change for the better in my world.-

Voice of Youth Advocates

Thirty-two authors from Australia, New Zealand, and England tell how particular books and writings influenced their writing careers. The names of featured young adult writers most recognizable to Americans are on the cover: Ambelin Kwaymullina, Mal Peet, Shaun Tan, and Markus Zusak. Randa Abdel-Fattah, who wrote Does My Head Look Big in This (Scholastic, 2007/VOYA August 2007), is also included in the collection. In addition to his autobiographical essay, Shaun Tan contributes delightful illustrations that depict whimsical characters answering the question, “Why Do You Read?” Works cited include fiction, graphic novels, poetry, photography, and magazine articles. The introduction explains Ridge’s writing journey. A complete list of writers mentioned and an indexed list of books cited appear at the end of the book. Few American young adults will make this a read-through. For teachers and librarians working with this age group, the book offers some strong material. The Shaun Tan illustrations will add a whimsical border around the work area. Featuring some of the familiar articles, one writer per week, in a bulletin board display may spark interest in both reading and writing, especially since Ridge includes a childhood picture of each author and, in the back of the book, a short statement about each writer and his or her works. The book’s best audience is potential writers curious about other cultures.—Lucy Schall.