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Books That Take You There: Australia

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Summer is coming soon, and it's the perfect time of year to explore! Australia is a continent with amazing oceans, fascinating creatures, and rich traditions to learn about. If you're interested in exploring Down Under, check out these books that will take you there!

Written by Sarah L. Thomson
Illustrated by Charles Santoso
New York: Little, Brown and Company, 2022. Picture Book.

When wildfires rage across Australia, many animals have nowhere to take shelter from the flames. In this time of crisis, Wombat decides to share their carefully dug tunnels with a wallaby, echidna, and skink seeking safety. Information about Australia's annual fire season and the devastating fires in 2019-2020 is included. 

By Gabriel Maralngurra and Felicity Wright
Brooklyn: Enchanted Lion Books, 2022. Picture Book. 

This counting book teaches young readers about Australian wildlife as they learn the animals' names and how to count to twelve in Kunwinjku, the language of the indigenous Bininj people of Australia. The stunning illustrations are painted in the style of traditional Australian rock paintings. Information about traditional art techniques is included, alongside further cultural information and a pronunciation guide.

Written by Christopher B. Daniels
Illustrated by Marianne Lock
New York: Neon Squid, 2023. Informational. 32 pages.

This field guide about koalas teaches young readers about the adorable marsupials as if they are animal scientists themselves. Facts about the lives and habits of koalas are clearly discussed, as well as the dangers that koalas face as an endangered species. 

By Danielle Binks
New York: Quill Tree Books, 2022. Fiction. 351 pages.

In 1999 Australia, 11-year-old Winifred tries to learn how to navigate her complex new family situation when her adoptive father's girlfriend moves in with her son and the couple announces they are having a new baby. While Fred struggles to adjust, Albanian refugees arrive seeking asylum from war in Kosovo. Fred navigates morality, community relationships, and a growing interest in geography as she sees the struggles of the refugees and of her own family.

By Frané Lessac
Somerville, Massachusetts: Candlewick Press, 2023. Informational.

This alphabet book takes a deep dive into the coral reefs that surround Australia. The letters introduce reefs and go into more depth exploring the sea creatures that inhabit the reefs around Australia. The vibrant colors of the illustrations will keep readers engaged, and a search-and-find game for additional species of fish is included throughout the book.
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