Based on the leading collection of its kind in the world, housed at the State Library of Victoria in Melbourne, this compilation surveys Australian children's literature and its history from the 19th century to today. Exploring everything from schooldays to fantasy worlds, this beautifully illustrated handbook shares the stories of Sir Pronoun and Miss Noun; of Bottersnikes and Gumbles; and of Jack, his house, his hut, and his shack. Including some of Australia's best known writers and illustrators, such as Pamela Allen, Gary Crew, Mem Fox, May Gibbs, Bob Graham, Libby Hathorn, Patricia Mullins, Ida Rentoul Outhwaite, Gregory Rogers, and Shaun Tan, this remarkable reference includes top-10 lists and breakout boxes, encouraging new ways of seeing the Australian child's literary history.