Australia

Australia is invading my life as of late.

In the past year, even in just the past few months, I've read several young adult novels written by Australians.

I Am the Messenger by Markus Zusak
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
Saving Francesca by Melina Marchetta
Jellicoe Road by Melina Marchetta
One Whole and Perfect Day by Judith Clarke
Evil Genius by Catherine Jinks

Jed and the kids have been following Australia's Jessica Watson sail her boat, Ella's Pink Lady, around the world trying to be the youngest to do it.

Buddy's favorite chapter books Jack Russell: Dog Detective are written by an Australian husband and wife team, so when Jed reads these books to the kids, he does so with an Australian accent.

I've loved the movie Strictly Ballroom since a roommate introduced it to me in college. "Feel the Rhythm. CLAP. CLAP."

And I've discovered this Australian book blog, which is filled with more books that I can even hope my own book blog will be someday.