Cora Seen and Heard
Age 10+
School Stories
Cora Lane gets tongue-tied, is often ignored and would rather hide in the library than step onto a stage. However, when her parents decide to renovate an old theatre in small-town Tasmania, Cora realises this is the perfect opportunity for her to reinvent her personality. Enter Cora 2.0, stage left.
When Cora quickly slips back into her old ways and has once again made friends with the librarian rather than kids her own age, she feels lost. Frustrated she’s not the person she wants to be, she shares her deepest feelings with her imaginary pen pal. The last thing she’d expect is for her letters to go missing. And now, the real Cora Lane is about to go public, but is she ready?
Resources
Creators
Based in the Byron Bay hinterland, Zanni Louise is passionate about writing quality books for children and inspiring people to write their own stories.
Zanni has written 16 books for children, including picture books and junior fiction. Her books have been described as quirky, warm and funny, and are sold in many foreign territories. She’s been twice listed in the CBCA Notables, and her picture book Archie and the Bear was selected for the highly prestigious international children’s catalogue: The White Ravens.
Reviews
The latest middle grade novel from Zanni Louise for readers aged 10+ has many strengths, including the subtle developments and journeys for even secondary characters, who are all lovingly constructed and believable; the protagonist’s authenticity and heart; compelling relationships (such as between Cora and her older sister); and the elements of intrigue associated with Clair.
Books + Publishing
This is a wonderful story about fitting in, being yourself, and realising that even the people who seem to have it all together have self-doubt and secrets too. It is a story about family, friendship, growing up, accepting change, and having the courage to accept yourself.
Lamont Books
Zanni works magic when she brings communities to life, and this is another fantastic novel and story from her that is relevant and timeless, that brings old and new together, and shows that there are many ways of being yourself, a powerful and authentic message that everyone needs to hear sometimes. This is a special book that celebrates the arts, and something we all need to have in our lives.
This is an important and engaging coming-of-age novel that has themes of self-acceptance, courage, friendship, family, dynamics, and community. There’s lots for middle-grade readers to take away with some vital lessons to be learnt.
Better Reading
Family interactions, juggling friends and dealing with misunderstandings make this a book that will resonate with many young teenagers and provide a great springboard for discussions about identity and self-confidence.
ReadPlus
