The Isabelle Stories: Volume 1: Izzy and Belle

Six-year-old Isabelle is good at looking after her dad, cat Steve, friend Harry B, and baby cousin Bibi. She meets a new girl at school with the same name, Isobel, and they become friends. Jane Godwin's stories are about Isabelle's world, trials, triumphs, and growing up, with illustrations by Robin Cowcher.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 01 March 2023
Publisher: Hachette Australia

Six-year-old Isabelle lives in a small town with her father, cat named Steve, her best friend Harry B, and her baby cousin, Bibi. She loves spending time with them and takes great care of Bibi. However, her life changes when a new girl named Isobel joins her school. They have the same name, but will they become friends?

The first story, "Isabelle and the Missing Toy," tells the tale of Isabelle's search for her favorite toy, which has gone missing. She and Harry B team up to find it, and in the process, they learn the importance of friendship and teamwork.

In "Isabelle and the New Girl," Isabelle is hesitant to befriend Isobel at first, but eventually, they become friends. They learn to appreciate their differences and support each other through thick and thin.

"Isabelle and the School Play" is a story about Isabelle's involvement in a school play. She is nervous at first, but with the help of her friends and family, she overcomes her fears and shines on stage.

"Isabelle and the Family Trip" takes Isabelle and her family on a vacation to the beach. They have a lot of fun together, but also face challenges that test their relationships. Through it all, Isabelle learns the value of family and the importance of being there for each other.

The final story, "Isabelle and the Secret Friend," is about a mysterious girl who Isabelle meets at the park. They become friends, but Isabelle soon realizes that the girl has a secret that could change their lives forever.

Through these stories, Jane Godwin explores the joys and challenges of childhood, friendship, family, and growing up. She writes with empathy and understanding, capturing the essence of what it means to be a child or young person. The illustrations by Robin Cowcher are beautiful and add to the charm of the stories.

Living Arts Canberra is proud to present this collection of stories, which will resonate with children and adults alike. Isabelle and her world is a testament to the power of imagination, friendship, and family, and will leave readers feeling uplifted and inspired.

Weight: 120g
Dimension: 198 x 129 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780734421593