Hazel’s Treehouse

Written by Zanni Louise

Illustrated by Judy Watson

Reviewed by Jamie Willis

Zanni Louise is the internationally published author of more than forty books for children, including picture books, junior fiction, middle grade and young adult. Her books have been recognised by prominent awards, including the Children’s Book Council of Australia, Speech Pathology Awards and the Australian Book Design Awards.

Judy Watson is an artist, writer and illustrator of picture books and junior fiction. Her illustration work has received several awards, including the Prime Minister’s Literary award, a CBCA Eve Pownall Award short-listing and several CBCA notables.

Hazel’s Treehouse is a collection of gentle junior fiction stories which has been justly described as an Australian version of Winnie-the-Pooh.  Nine-year-old Hazel lives in a treehouse in the bush with her friends Odette, the very bouncy pademelon, Walter the sometimes-grumpy wombat, Tiny the honey possum, who travels in Hazel’s pocket, and Poky, an echidna who changes colour to reflect Hazel’s emotions.

Zanni Louise invites children into Hazel’s playful adventures, such as debating whether to stay in bed or make pancakes on Snuggle Up Sunday, snorkelling in the muddy creek on A Beach Day and singing a happy song to celebrate waffles on Someone’s Special Day.

The characters are endearing and well-drawn. They each have distinct personalities and make mistakes, but are also thoughtful and kind to each other. The stories are a celebration of friendship and creativity, with many examples of accepting differences, resolving conflicts and using imagination to solve problems.

Judy Watson begins each chapter with a line drawing of an Australian native flower, inspired by the text, including the orange wattle and coastal banksia. Her vivid illustrations, in dip pen and ink, encourage readers to explore the wondrous details of Hazel and her friends’ life in the Australian bush. The book features an embossed hardcover and exquisite purple endpapers with native flowers, signalling this book is a classic to be treasured

Hazel’s Treehouse certainly appears destined to become a family favourite. It would make the perfect gift for children aged 5+.

Walker Books 2024

Zanni Louise:

Judy Watson