Ruby Makes a Friend
Author of the Month, March 2009
Borders Books Australia
Pick of the Month
Sydney's Child Magazine
'The gorgeous illustrations and superbly honed text engage from the very first page ... a terrific tale of the power of imagination and friendship and the adaptability of children at play.'
The Sunday Age, Melbourne
'Burke has created a glorious tale of friendship (real and imagined) and the transformative power of imagination. This book is an absolute treasure. Very highly recommended...'
(PICK OF THE MONTH) Sydney's Child
"Imaginary friends come in all shapes and sizes as this delightful picture book shows... beautifully handled, both technically and aesthetically... filled with all the effervescence of childhood..."
Magpies Magazine
"... a lovely book about friendship, belonging and the power of imagination."
Sunday Mail, Adelaide
"... a delightful picture story about imaginary - and real - friends. Burke's text is simple and her illustrations, in richly gentle pastel tones, are whimsical and delightful ... A treasure."
Reading Time, Vol 53 No2
First published by Penguin Books Australia 2009
Glbburi (Korea)
Sophie's Big Bed
2008 Notable Book
Children's Book Council of Australia
"This beautifully illustrated story is perfect for children aged up to three"
My Child Magazine, Autumn 2007
"This book is a winner with its bright illustrations that show Sophie's worry and joy so clearly... "
Kidslit, 2007
"...one of those books that will be loved and treasured by both toddlers and parents."
Suite 101
"... a sweeter end to an even sweeter story."
Curled Up Kids
"... must-have title for the toddler transitioning from crib to bed."
Seven Impossible Things Before Breakfast
"... a good book for parents dealing with that all-important move for their child."
Puget Sound Council
"... simple text, engaging illustrations soothe the way in this life passage."
Women Day by Day
"Finally: we found a children's book that helps toddlers deal with the transition from a crib to a bed! Written from a child's perspective, this charming book addresses kids' most common fears: will I fall out? Will I get lost? Wonderfully written, with adorable illustrations and a very happy ending."
One Step Ahead
"What makes this books so sweet to read to your toddler is Sophie, a strong little character who does not throw a fit about her choices. She just does it. The smile on her face is always one of pure happiness and her fearful looks are the same ones adults never let out.
By using a bright pastel color pallet, writer/illustrator Tina Burke is allowing Sophie to express herself in a safe environment. The pictures are instantly identifiable, instantly connective. Kids will see themselves in Sophie and her animals even if their rooms do not look like hers. Moreover, young children identify with her situation of changing into a new bed. Few children really want to do it. But with Sophie as an example that perhaps, perhaps, transition can be easier."
Family Time Magazine
First published by Penguin Books (Australia)
Kane/Miller Book Publishers (US/Canada) - also Spanish edition
Puffin UK
Sophie Bakes a Cake
"This gorgeous story follows the cooking adventures of a little girl named Sophie ... perfect reading fodder for your future Nigella or Jamie ..."
Australian Mother & Baby, Sept 2008
This is a delightful picture book with simple text, a humorous twist and bright illustrations ... Perfect for sharing and, with it's minimal text, also for beginning readers to read alone."
Reading Time Vol.52, No.3 2008
"...an ideal book for sharing, with adults and preschoolers both able to draw enjoyment from the story."
Magpies Magazine, Vol.23, 2008
Published by Penguin Books Australia
Are You Hungry?
Great Aussie Read
National Literacy and Numeracy Week 2007
Shortlist: Best Picture Books of 2007
Early Childhood Australia
"... another charming, almost wordless picture books for pre-schoolers ... Tina Burke's water-colour illustrations are delightful... "
Reading Time, Vol 51. No 4, 2008
Published by Penguin Books Australia
Fly, Little Bird
2007 NAHEE KIND Children's Honor Book
Humane Society of the United States
Best Children's Book of the Year list 2007
Bank Street College of Education, United States
Publishers Weekly Starred Review
“All the more poignant for its eloquent simplicity, this tale will likely find a home in many young readers' hearts, and is especially well-suited to preschoolers just learning about letting go.”
Publishers Weekly (US) Feb 20, 2006
“Pre-readers and readers alike will enjoy this visual treat that tickles the funny bone while providing a tender reflection on friendship.”
Kirkus Reviews (US) February 15, 2006
“This delightful book is the first for Tina Burke … her illustrative style with its rhythmical lines, energetic body language and bright colours is fresh and original”
Magpies Magazine Vol.21 No.2, 2006
“An almost wordless book for the very young with a profound message about love, nurture and growing into independence.
The very young will feel they are ‘really’ reading when guided through this delightful book.”
The Source (Australia) 2006
"Subtle and sweet - everything a nearly wordless book should be."
Sioux Falls Woman
"The wordless picture book can be very useful to young kids who want to "read" a book before they know their letters... this is a sweet little story and should make any child who receives it particularly pleased. "
Elizabeth Bird, A Fuse #8 Production
"The gorgeous illustrations will capture the hearts of young readers everywhere!"
Kids Bookshelf
"This is a soothing, joyful book, one that encourages friendship, compassion, and not holding on too tight ... if you're looking for a feel-good book or a comforting tale, this is it."
Cheryl Rainfield, Uplifting Picture Books That Don't Preach
"... beautifully illustrated... a great asset to schools and homes."
Virginia S, Peaks Island Library
First published by Penguin Books (Australia)
Kane/Miller Book Publishers (US/Canada)
Korea Steiner (Korea)
It's Christmas
2008 Mom's Choice Award, US
"...what a wonderful portrait of how Christmas should be."
Magpies Magazine, Vol.21 No.5, 2006
"This new Australian Christmas release is a gem. Tina Burke has created an enchanting and humorous tale..."
Sydney's Child Magazine, November 2006
"Burke's soft, pastel and watercolour drawings are warm and inviting, capturing the magical anticipation and excitement that children feel waiting for the holiday."
School Library Journal
" Having proven herself a master at minimalism, Burke (Fly Little Bird) heightens the Yuletide humor by juxtaposing universal images with a tongue-in-cheek text. The expressions on the faces capture far more than words could... a sure-fire hit with Santa-seeking youngsters."
Shelf Awareness
"Her work is more than just adorable. it's decidedly simple - her neat, rounded illustration with limited detail and nothing extraneous. Nothing gets in the way of the very youngest reader's/listener's ability to comprehend a simple story about - in this case - Christmas. In fact, it's not even a story. It's a glimpse into Christmas traditions and the joy they can bring for the youngest child..."
Seven Impossible Things Before Breakfast
"For such a simple toddler's picture book, the ideas and excitement that come from it are endless."
National Library Board (Singapore)
"... a simple book with few words, but seems to capture the essence of a youngsters anticipation of Santa's coming."
Newton's Book News
"Reading It's Christmas is a great way to get young children motivated to take part in making the magic that is Christmas. The delightful, colourful illustrations are the strength of this feel-good book."
Puget Sound Council
"... delightfully simple yet perfectly sweet little book."
Through the Looking Glass Children's Book Review
"Joan Walsh Aglund has a worthy successor in Tina Burke. Her drawings portray the bursting exuberance of young children... nicely assorted in their ethnicity, too... the gentle excitement it engenders will likely keep children asking for it long after the tree is taken down and the decorations packed away for another year."
Curled Up Kids
First published by Penguin/Viking Books (Australia)
Kane/Miller Book Publishers (US/Canada)
Rosie to the Rescue
Rosie and the Bunyip
[for Rosie and the Bunyip]: "A lively tale, this is perfect for youngsters just beginning to explore reading on their own. ... Charming illustrations add life to the story and punctuate the written text. Aussie Nibbles fans will no doubt find this text just right for them."
SCAN, Journal of the NSW Curriculum Directorate Vol.27 No.4, Nov 2008
"... I also loved the characterization and expressions in the delightful illustrations by Tina Burke"
Boomerang Books Blog
First published by Penguin Books (Australia)
Author of the Month, March 2009
Borders Books Australia
Pick of the Month
Sydney's Child Magazine
'The gorgeous illustrations and superbly honed text engage from the very first page ... a terrific tale of the power of imagination and friendship and the adaptability of children at play.'
The Sunday Age, Melbourne
'Burke has created a glorious tale of friendship (real and imagined) and the transformative power of imagination. This book is an absolute treasure. Very highly recommended...'
(PICK OF THE MONTH) Sydney's Child
"Imaginary friends come in all shapes and sizes as this delightful picture book shows... beautifully handled, both technically and aesthetically... filled with all the effervescence of childhood..."
Magpies Magazine
"... a lovely book about friendship, belonging and the power of imagination."
Sunday Mail, Adelaide
"... a delightful picture story about imaginary - and real - friends. Burke's text is simple and her illustrations, in richly gentle pastel tones, are whimsical and delightful ... A treasure."
Reading Time, Vol 53 No2
First published by Penguin Books Australia 2009
Glbburi (Korea)
Sophie's Big Bed
2008 Notable Book
Children's Book Council of Australia
"This beautifully illustrated story is perfect for children aged up to three"
My Child Magazine, Autumn 2007
"This book is a winner with its bright illustrations that show Sophie's worry and joy so clearly... "
Kidslit, 2007
"...one of those books that will be loved and treasured by both toddlers and parents."
Suite 101
"... a sweeter end to an even sweeter story."
Curled Up Kids
"... must-have title for the toddler transitioning from crib to bed."
Seven Impossible Things Before Breakfast
"... a good book for parents dealing with that all-important move for their child."
Puget Sound Council
"... simple text, engaging illustrations soothe the way in this life passage."
Women Day by Day
"Finally: we found a children's book that helps toddlers deal with the transition from a crib to a bed! Written from a child's perspective, this charming book addresses kids' most common fears: will I fall out? Will I get lost? Wonderfully written, with adorable illustrations and a very happy ending."
One Step Ahead
"What makes this books so sweet to read to your toddler is Sophie, a strong little character who does not throw a fit about her choices. She just does it. The smile on her face is always one of pure happiness and her fearful looks are the same ones adults never let out.
By using a bright pastel color pallet, writer/illustrator Tina Burke is allowing Sophie to express herself in a safe environment. The pictures are instantly identifiable, instantly connective. Kids will see themselves in Sophie and her animals even if their rooms do not look like hers. Moreover, young children identify with her situation of changing into a new bed. Few children really want to do it. But with Sophie as an example that perhaps, perhaps, transition can be easier."
Family Time Magazine
First published by Penguin Books (Australia)
Kane/Miller Book Publishers (US/Canada) - also Spanish edition
Puffin UK
Sophie Bakes a Cake
"This gorgeous story follows the cooking adventures of a little girl named Sophie ... perfect reading fodder for your future Nigella or Jamie ..."
Australian Mother & Baby, Sept 2008
This is a delightful picture book with simple text, a humorous twist and bright illustrations ... Perfect for sharing and, with it's minimal text, also for beginning readers to read alone."
Reading Time Vol.52, No.3 2008
"...an ideal book for sharing, with adults and preschoolers both able to draw enjoyment from the story."
Magpies Magazine, Vol.23, 2008
Published by Penguin Books Australia
Are You Hungry?
Great Aussie Read
National Literacy and Numeracy Week 2007
Shortlist: Best Picture Books of 2007
Early Childhood Australia
"... another charming, almost wordless picture books for pre-schoolers ... Tina Burke's water-colour illustrations are delightful... "
Reading Time, Vol 51. No 4, 2008
Published by Penguin Books Australia
Fly, Little Bird
2007 NAHEE KIND Children's Honor Book
Humane Society of the United States
Best Children's Book of the Year list 2007
Bank Street College of Education, United States
Publishers Weekly Starred Review
“All the more poignant for its eloquent simplicity, this tale will likely find a home in many young readers' hearts, and is especially well-suited to preschoolers just learning about letting go.”
Publishers Weekly (US) Feb 20, 2006
“Pre-readers and readers alike will enjoy this visual treat that tickles the funny bone while providing a tender reflection on friendship.”
Kirkus Reviews (US) February 15, 2006
“This delightful book is the first for Tina Burke … her illustrative style with its rhythmical lines, energetic body language and bright colours is fresh and original”
Magpies Magazine Vol.21 No.2, 2006
“An almost wordless book for the very young with a profound message about love, nurture and growing into independence.
The very young will feel they are ‘really’ reading when guided through this delightful book.”
The Source (Australia) 2006
"Subtle and sweet - everything a nearly wordless book should be."
Sioux Falls Woman
"The wordless picture book can be very useful to young kids who want to "read" a book before they know their letters... this is a sweet little story and should make any child who receives it particularly pleased. "
Elizabeth Bird, A Fuse #8 Production
"The gorgeous illustrations will capture the hearts of young readers everywhere!"
Kids Bookshelf
"This is a soothing, joyful book, one that encourages friendship, compassion, and not holding on too tight ... if you're looking for a feel-good book or a comforting tale, this is it."
Cheryl Rainfield, Uplifting Picture Books That Don't Preach
"... beautifully illustrated... a great asset to schools and homes."
Virginia S, Peaks Island Library
First published by Penguin Books (Australia)
Kane/Miller Book Publishers (US/Canada)
Korea Steiner (Korea)
It's Christmas
2008 Mom's Choice Award, US
"...what a wonderful portrait of how Christmas should be."
Magpies Magazine, Vol.21 No.5, 2006
"This new Australian Christmas release is a gem. Tina Burke has created an enchanting and humorous tale..."
Sydney's Child Magazine, November 2006
"Burke's soft, pastel and watercolour drawings are warm and inviting, capturing the magical anticipation and excitement that children feel waiting for the holiday."
School Library Journal
" Having proven herself a master at minimalism, Burke (Fly Little Bird) heightens the Yuletide humor by juxtaposing universal images with a tongue-in-cheek text. The expressions on the faces capture far more than words could... a sure-fire hit with Santa-seeking youngsters."
Shelf Awareness
"Her work is more than just adorable. it's decidedly simple - her neat, rounded illustration with limited detail and nothing extraneous. Nothing gets in the way of the very youngest reader's/listener's ability to comprehend a simple story about - in this case - Christmas. In fact, it's not even a story. It's a glimpse into Christmas traditions and the joy they can bring for the youngest child..."
Seven Impossible Things Before Breakfast
"For such a simple toddler's picture book, the ideas and excitement that come from it are endless."
National Library Board (Singapore)
"... a simple book with few words, but seems to capture the essence of a youngsters anticipation of Santa's coming."
Newton's Book News
"Reading It's Christmas is a great way to get young children motivated to take part in making the magic that is Christmas. The delightful, colourful illustrations are the strength of this feel-good book."
Puget Sound Council
"... delightfully simple yet perfectly sweet little book."
Through the Looking Glass Children's Book Review
"Joan Walsh Aglund has a worthy successor in Tina Burke. Her drawings portray the bursting exuberance of young children... nicely assorted in their ethnicity, too... the gentle excitement it engenders will likely keep children asking for it long after the tree is taken down and the decorations packed away for another year."
Curled Up Kids
First published by Penguin/Viking Books (Australia)
Kane/Miller Book Publishers (US/Canada)
Rosie to the Rescue
Rosie and the Bunyip
[for Rosie and the Bunyip]: "A lively tale, this is perfect for youngsters just beginning to explore reading on their own. ... Charming illustrations add life to the story and punctuate the written text. Aussie Nibbles fans will no doubt find this text just right for them."
SCAN, Journal of the NSW Curriculum Directorate Vol.27 No.4, Nov 2008
"... I also loved the characterization and expressions in the delightful illustrations by Tina Burke"
Boomerang Books Blog
First published by Penguin Books (Australia)