Yoshimoto, no bananas here.

We've been on a walk to Double Bay today and and boy am I feeling it in my calves now. It's around 2.6km (one way) but the hills make it feel a lot longer, especially on the return trip. Armed with a copy of the urban walkabout Sydney guide for Double Bay I'd discovered there are plenty of shops to explore....

I left fashion for another, child free, day and instead of a beautiful Marni dress I bought the new Yoshimoto Nara book The Lonesome Puppy. It's Yoshimoto Nara's first childrens book. A sweet tale of a very big dog. I love the fact that it is dedicated to physically challenged children everywhere and explores with children (well, not just children, grown ups too) that although we are all different we deserve to be loved and appreciated in the same way. I bought it at As if by Magic, which looks a little like a fairy's supply store, but don't be put off by all the wands and wings. They have a wonderful collection of childrens books and the owner especially loves illustration, so she'll gladly point you in the direction of a real treasure. They even had the Jen Coarce book Little Hoot, about an owl who's parents make him stay up all night, which I'm sure I'll head back for soon.

The other favorite of the day was Rainbow Puppen. They sell all kinds of European toys and dolls, speciallising in wooden toys. Some kids stores give me heartburn but not this one I could have stayed in there all day. The absence of blaring, battery operated plastic toys was a breath of fresh air.

With a beautiful looking bookshop and plenty more stores still yet to visit I'll be heading back soon for another fix of....L.A., country style...I mean... Double Bay.