About Gobblefunked
A not-for-profit site dedicated to sharing the joy of children's books, with reviews, news and events for families in Ireland, Australia and the US.
Why we started
Gobblefunked was founded in January 2013 by Linda Crosbie and Anne Whelton. The aim was simple: to help take the stress out of choosing the perfect book for your little one.
We write about books across every stage, from baby books and picture books through to young adult titles, alongside graphic novels, dyslexia-friendly reads, Indigenous Australian books and Irish-language books. Alongside reviews, we follow the wider children's publishing world and share news, interviews and events worth knowing about.
Gobblefunked is run as a not-for-profit, and our team has its fingers on the pulse of international children's publishing.
Gobblefunked exists for one simple reason: to share the joy of children's books and make choosing the right story feel less like a chore and more like a pleasure. Browsing shelves can be overwhelming when there are so many titles and so many ages to consider, so this site gathers thoughtful reviews and friendly recommendations in one place. From first board books and picture books read aloud at bedtime, through to young adult novels for older readers, the aim is to help families find something that truly fits, whether the child is a baby, a teen, or somewhere in between.
Beyond reviews, Gobblefunked keeps a warm eye on the wider world of children's books, following news, awards and events that matter to readers and their grown-ups. There is room here for graphic novels, dyslexia-friendly reads, Indigenous Australian stories and Irish-language books, because every young reader deserves to see themselves on a page. Regular interviews with authors and illustrators offer a glimpse behind the stories, while seasonal reads and diary notes help families plan ahead. It is a gentle, not-for-profit corner of the internet, built on the belief that a good book can be a small everyday joy.
- Founded January 2013
- Founders Linda Crosbie and Anne Whelton
- Status Not-for-profit
- Reach Ireland, Australia and the US
A team of readers
Publishing professionals
People who work in and around children's books, bringing an insider's view to what we recommend.
Mums
Parents choosing books for their own children, and sharing what worked for them.
Teenagers
Our Teenfunked reviewers, who focus on young adult books and read them as they arrive.
Get to know us
Meet the founders and the reviewers behind the site, or send us a note with feedback, suggestions or news of an event you would like to share.
What we cover
- Reviews by age range and category, including new releases and old favourites
- News from the children's book world, including awards and shortlists
- Interviews with authors and illustrators
- Events, launches and festivals in our diary
- Competitions for readers and families