October 2020 Children's & Young Adult Lead Titles

Hold On!: Saving the Spotted Handfish Gina M Newton, illustrated by Rachel Tribout

Hold On!: Saving the Spotted Handfish
Gina M Newton, illustrated by Rachel Tribout


Hardback | Oct 2020 | CSIRO Publishing | 9781486311842 | 32pp | 285x220mm | GEN | AUD$24.99, NZD$29.99

*Shortlisted for 2021 CBCA Notable Book: Eve Pownall Award for information books*

*Shortlisted for 2021 Environment Award for Children's Literature: Nonfiction*


Age range 6 to 9 

Have you ever seen a fish that could do a handstand?

This is the story of a quirky and primitive little fish that is famous for two things: walking on its 'hands' (pectoral fins), and being the first marine fish anywhere in the word to be listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The Spotted Handfish has survived since the time of the dinosaurs — until now. Invasive sea stars, pollution and climate change mean that this unique Australian is in real trouble — raise your hand if you want to know more!

Hold On! Saving the Spotted Handfish is perfect for primary aged readers.