Book lovers, rejoice. Our local talent is on a roll, turning out new reads that prove the Beaches is full of creative firepower. Here are some titles, for young and old, to dive into next. Know a local book that deserves a spotlight? Tell us. Send in your book to Unit 1/535 Pittwater Road, Brookvale NSW 2100.

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I See You by Tatjana Genys

"Finally!! What took you so long?" demands the very first page of I See You, a metafictive romance by Tatjana Genys that hooks you into its topsy-turvy world from the get-go. When an anxious young man named Nathaniel Bennet picks up a peculiar novel in a bookstore, he is greeted by Annabelle, a young girl who turns his life upside down.

Like the cheeky Cheshire Cat from Lewis Carroll's Alice in Wonderland, Annabelle twists her words to challenge Nate's reality, leading him into strange circumstances and ultimately to the love of his life, Lucy. The only thing that can come between them is Nate's anxiety. Will it break them apart?

Exploring the surrealism of the soul, I See You unweaves ideas around true self and judgement, appealing to readers who enjoy the balance between lighthearted fun and deep reflection.

Tatjana Genys | tatjanagenys.com | @love_your_being | f: Tatjana Genys

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The Night Noise by Linda Lokhee, illustrated by Juan Carlos Rodriguez

Curled up in dreamland, Quinn is woken from her sleep by a most unusual noise coming from the darkness outside. Surely, it must be a monster!

The Night Noise playfully follows Quinn and her Daddy as they explore where the mysterious sound might be coming from. What they discover turns into the sweetest surprise, proving it's not as scary as they first imagined.

Accompanied by the tranquil illustrations of Juan Carlos Rodriguez, this tender story captures the hearts of little ones and big ones alike.

Both a published poet and a two-time children's book author of The Night Noise and The Sock Monster, Linda Lokhee has a knack for bringing out the magic in everyday life. As a primary school teacher, she knows well how to entertain children while gently weaving in the values of friendship and kindness.

Linda Lokhee | lindalokhee.com | f: Linda Lokhee

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The Last Hollow by Ben Dessen, illustrated by Tay Timoney

Inspiring long-term change begins with the next generation, and The Last Hollow plants that seed early. This beautifully told children's story encourages a love of conservation in young readers, opening the door to meaningful conversations at home and in the classroom.

Through Tay Timoney's captivating illustrations, we meet Marlin and Banksi, two red-tailed black cockatoos who lose their nesting hollow just as Banksi prepares to lay her egg. With time running out, they journey from friend to friend in search of a new nest, showing the variety of fragile niches in nature.

Blessedly, the story ends on a hopeful note, highlighting the role humans can play in protecting threatened wildlife. One hundred per cent of proceeds support Hills Wildlife Sanctuary, directed by author Ben Dessen, where native animals like Marlin and Banksi receive the care they need.

Ben Dessen | Hills Wildlife Sanctuary | bendessen.com.au | @bendessen | f: Ben Dessen

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Are You a Horserous? by Premananda Grace

By a purple-painted house framed by green gardens and blue skies, a horse meets two curious children, Ida and Leo. "Are you a horserous?" they ask. "Of courserous," he replies, and just like that, the adventure begins.

What unfolds is a playful, rhyming journey filled with warmth and imagination. The trio set off together, galloping their way to Granny's and back again, drawing young readers into a world where language is part of the fun.

Along the way, children are introduced to delightful new words, from "equine" to "amenable", gently expanding their vocabulary without ever losing the rhythm of the story. It is clever, light-hearted and easy to follow.

With pages bursting with flowers and forest creatures, and a lilting cadence that makes it a joy to read aloud, Are You a Horserous is set to become a well-loved bedtime favourite for families.

Premananda Grace | authorpremanandagrace.com