Reviews for The Peach King

“Inga Simpson and Tannya Harricks have created a modern classic in The Peach King – an exquisite book destined to be treasured by generations. In sparing, poetic language, Simpson transforms the devastating impact of the Black Summer bushfires into a gentle fable for children... Harrick’s delicate illustrations capture the seasonal patterns of nature in the Australian landscape...

While written for children aged 3+, The Peach King offers truths that will resonate with readers of all ages. Its timeless quality and gentle wisdom invite return visits, making it a rewarding and enduring read.”

— MERRIL DARLING, Books+Publishing

“Simpson’s writing is exquisite: spare, lyrical and deeply evocative. There is not a word wasted or out of place. Her story is perfectly matched with illustrations that sweep from corner to corner bringing the seasons alive. Together they create a timeless tale of growth, change and resilience. The Peach King feels like a book destined to become a classic.”

— Good Reading

“Simpson brings her signature sensitivity to the natural world into a fable for our times – one that feels both timeless and urgent. With luminous paintings by Tannya Harricks, the book unfolds as a story about growth, resilience, and the fragile bonds between people, place, and the more-than-human world.

The Peach King is both an environmental storybook and an allegory, accessible to children yet profound enough for adults. It’s a work that invites quiet reflection, reminding us of the interconnectedness of all living things, and the responsibility we share in protecting them.”

—Australian Arts Review

“One of those picture books that immediately creates an impact... [and] will become a classic and be read and re-read, kept and handed down... The Peach King is utterly charming, full of whimsy and beauty but also an important story that is very relevant. Reading the story is a delight that will also encourage important discussions about climate change, families, life and death, like all good picture books.”

—MAGGIE BALL, Compulsive Reader

“A picture book fable for children, and readers of all ages... navigates the implications of climate change, drought and fire for children.

This [book] shows what climate change might look like from the perspective of nature and how nature is impacted, which really makes the consequences and impacts hit him in a different way than many other books that touch on the same theme. This is a unique book that will spark conversations and questions about the world around us for readers of all ages.”

—ASHLEIGH MEIKLE, The Book Muse

“Beautifully illustrated by acclaimed illustrator Tannya Harricks... Emerging readers are not only taken on an enchanting journey through nature’s seasonal cycle but also the disastrous effects of drought and fire. They will enjoy the simple text combined with the wonderfully detailed illustrations. This beautiful, nature picture book is a must for all school libraries.”

—NAN VAN DISSEL, Blue Wolf Reviews

NIGHT WATCH By Jodi Toering