Tales of Curiosity, Sonya McArthur
Written by Sonya McArthur
Illustrations by Bevan Smith
Published by Little Love
$35, Hardback, 220pp, 248 x 185mm (Portrait)
ISBN: 978-1-0670519-6-9
In stores: September 2025
Beautiful, old-world storytelling for young readers
Hokitika-based biodiversity ranger Sonya McArthur has created a captivating treasury of illustrated stories for children aged 9 to 12 called Tales of Curiosity.
Set in imaginative and symbolic worlds, each of the eight illustrated tales follow unique characters as they navigate powerful emotional journeys, from confronting grief, to embracing difference and understanding change. With lyrical prose and an old-world storytelling style, this book invites young readers to slow down, reflect, and discover new ways of seeing the world.
The beautiful hardcover book, complete with metallic foiling on the cover, is perfect for fans of The Chronicles of Narnia, Tales of the Otori, and traditional fables.
Sonya says the book stemmed from her curiosity to understand more about herself and many aspects of the world around her.
“I wrote it quite a while ago now, when I was a much younger person trying to figure out the nature of the world and myself. Aspects of each story’s visual beauty and emotional resonance will appeal to children who are also on this journey of discovery, but they are also fun, classic ‘story-teller’ tales that can be enjoyed by anyone, no matter where they are at.”
Sonya’s deep connection to New Zealand’s native flora and fauna comes through in the stories which have different curiosities or themes, such as change, greed, the environment, love, and creating beauty.
The tales introduce readers to twin boys on different paths, a light-footed dancer, a talented thief, and a girl gifted an unusual olive twig. They get to encounter a river with a mind of its own, a grumpy puppet maker, a shoemaker who joins the circus, and a weaver determined to create something extraordinary. Along the way, they’ll discover places they won’t want to leave – and ones they’ll be desperate to escape! The eight Tales of Curiosity will keep readers thinking, long after the last page is turned…
Reviews
“Tales of Curiosity is sumptuously produced in hardback, with full colour illustrations and quality paper – making this beautiful collection a superb gift.
”Unique on New Zealand shelves, Tales of Curiosity is like the good old fashioned stories of old, but with a fresh voice and narrative style.
”The author is offering young readers or listeners an opportunity to slow down and enjoy their surroundings, just as many of the characters do.
”This book is really something special, and at varying lengths and topics, I enjoyed every story within.”
ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR
Bevan Smith grew up in Auckland, New Zealand, and has worked for the Department of Conservation.
A talented illustrator, Bevan also enjoys playing the guitar and spending time outdoors, often exploring on long walks.
His work on this book reflects his cheerful and creative nature, bringing the author’s words to life through engaging and imaginative artwork.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Sonya McArthur lives in Hokitika, on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island. She works as a ranger in conservation and has a deep appreciation for the natural world, often exploring the coast, valleys, and mountains near her home. Sonya has a passion for creativity, from playing the flute and practising meditation to tending her permaculture garden, where she grows fruit and vegetables alongside a variety of native plants. This book is the result of many years of work, shaped by both laughter and challenges, and brought to life visually with the help of illustrator Bevan.
To arrange interviews with Sonya McArthur or for any further information, please contact:
Kate Gordon-Smith
Relish Communications
kate@relishcommunications.co.nz, 021587227