Review: Bandoola by Beverley McWilliams

A Mammoth Rescue: The WWII Elephant Who Led Over 200 People to Safety.

Beverley McWilliams' story of Bandoola was inspired by the true story of Bandoola the elephant who, together with James Williams (Elephant Bill), led over 200 people through the jungles of Burma to safety during WWII. 

Beverley McWilliams brings history to life for young readers, and the story being narrated by Bandoola himself is truly innovative, bringing a whole new perspective to this moment in history.

I simply loved reading young Bandoola's narrative. He was mischievous, cheeky and very smart. His handler Po Toke has big dreams for Bandoola and hopes to one day train elephants born in captivity for logging instead of trapping and kheddaring (an historical practice of breaking in the wild elephants) wild elephants. However Bandoola's only dream is for a life of freedom.

Having the thoughts of the elephant brings a layer of connection and McWilliams cleverly shows how the elephants communicate with humans and how they learn commands.

Written on a level for Middle Grade readers we see the humane side of keeping elephants in captivity. The elephants are loved and well looked after. There is a brief explanation of kheddaring. However the actual practice is not featured in this story.

McWilliams brings historical events to life in a way that will captivate young readers. There is plenty of humour, mishaps, danger and adventure.

The bond between man and elephant is powerful and moving.

Bandoola is a story that will inspire young readers to venture into more historical fiction tales. It is a fun and immersive way to learn about the world and its history.

I loved how Bandoola's character grew throughout the story as he aged, learning courage and responsibility, however never losing the fun and mischievous actions of the young Bandoola.

McWilliams has clearly undertaken extensive research into elephants, how they act and the work of their keepers, to make this book come across as totally natural and realistic.

The food, people and vegetation of Burma all shine through in McWilliams vivid descriptions. The gorgeous sketches by Kate Jones featured throughout the book add an extra level of visual appeal.

Bandoola is a story young readers will want to read over and over.

My rating 5 / 5 🐘🐘🐘🐘🐘

Recommended age: 8 - 14 years

Teaching notes and resources can also be found on the publisher website:

https://uwap.uwa.edu.au/products/bandoola?_pos=1&_sid=b1dec2e73&_ss=r

Publisher: UWA Publishing

Publication date: 1st August 2026

Genre: Middle Grade / Historical

Pages: 310

RRP: AU$17.99 (paperback)

Source: courtesy of the publisher

#bandoola #middlegrade #middlegradefiction #middlegradehistoricalfiction #kidsbooksaboutelephants #historicalbooksforkids #ausbookbloggers #australianauthor #littlesquirrelsbookshelf 

Review: Love You, Daddy by Karen Blair

I think Love You, Daddy is the cutest lift the flap book I've seen!

Originally released for Fathers Day however this gorgeous book filled with love and admiration for all kinds of dads would be the perfect gift and bed time read all year round.

Illustrated by Karen Blair

Publisher: Affirm Kids

Publication date: 28th July 2026

Genre: Board Book

Pages: 24

RRP: AU$16.99

Source: Courtesy of the publisher

This is the perfect book for dad to spend some quality time with their child and the interactive flaps make it a fun experience for both adult and child.
Love You, Daddy is the ideal bedtime read. A gentle story about all the wonderful things daddies do for us.

Dads teach us about kindness and helping others. Fold the flap to see capybara dad being helpful.

From having fun and being a good listener to encouraging us to be brave and helping others, daddies really are the best.

Dads encourage us and help us to be brave. Fold the flap to see the little duckling be brave and jump in the pond. He is ever so cute with his little floaties on. 

This sturdy board book has strong flaps that won’t immediately tear off with a bit of enthusiastic use. Love You, Daddy is sure to become a bedtime favourite.

My rating 5 / 5 🦆🦆🦆🦆🦆

Recommended age: 0 - 3 years

#loveyoudaddy #childrensboardbook #lifttheflapbook #booksforbabies #childrenspicturebook #boardbook #karenblair #australianauthor #littlesquirrelsbookshelf #ausbookbloggers