Books by Gavin Bishop

"Over a thousand years ago, the wind, sea currents and stars brought people to the islands that became known as Aotearoa, the land of the long white cloud. Navigate your way through this sumptuously illustrated story of New Zealand. Explore the defining moments of our history, ca...ptured by celebrated children's book creator Gavin Bishop, from the Big Bang right through to what might happen tomorrow. Discover Maori legends, layers of meaning and lesser-known facts"--Publisher information.
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A charming ratty fable about family by a much-loved writer and illustrator pair. A family of rats is forced to leave their home, so sets out to find the fabled city of Ratenburg. Along the way they outwit vicious dogs, tricky rat traps, and sharp-beaked hawks, and make some very ...dangerous crossings. The rat family's adventures test their character and grow bonds between sisters and brothers, family friends, mum and dad.Narrating the tale is Spinnaker Rat, an Edwardian-style father, full of wisdom about the ways of the world, who finds himself learning more than he expected. This accessible story nods to international successes like The Tale of Despereaux but with its own distinctive voice and characters.
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A sequel to Taming the Sun and Riding the Waves, Gavin Bishop's latest stunning book contains four more Maori myths, including two well-known legends (Ranginui and Papatuanuku and Hinemoa and Tutanekai) and two less well-known legends (The battle of the birds and Kae and the whal...e). Aimed at children 3-10 years, these myths are simply written and yet powerful. They're exciting and scary but each story is nicely resolved. Gavin allows the essence of the original myths to remain while also re-telling them for a new generation of children.The illustrations are stunning - the different colour palette for each story and the strong mix of techniques create bold and beautiful images. Counting the Stars is a collection that continues to take traditional myths to a new level. Created by one of New Zealand's most talented and passionate children's book writers and illustrators.
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"Bruiser is a machine on a mission-ploughing up hillsides, trampling down paddocks and crushing rocks. Until, one day, a little chick and a nest fall right in front of him. What will Bruiser do?"--Back cover. Suggested level: junior.

"Quaky Cat returns to help rebuild the city of Christchurch by helping his homeless cat-friends and taking them in"--Publisher information.