Author:
R.W. Starr
Illustrator:
Marta Maszkiewicz
Publisher:
R.W. Starr Publishing
Released:
May 22, 2023
Format:
Kindle, Paperback
ISBN:
978-8218955205
Reviewer:
Ellwyn Autumn
Rating: 4
Lemon Drops
A
charming non-fiction book for young readers that includes catchy rhymes, warm
watercolor illustrations, and loads of interesting facts!
I
received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery. I voluntarily
chose to read and post an honest review.
Review:
Book Summary:
A Journey Down Under is a wonderful non-fiction resource for young children and their parents and educators.
For those of us who are not Australian, the book is a terrific introduction
to Australia and its unique and diverse animal population.
Opinion:
I like that the book shows a map of Australia inlaid with native type images that are very pretty and easy to discern.
It left me wondering, “Is this Indigenous art or
just the illustrator’s creative expression?” Other curious minds may also want
to delve into this and explore it further.
Because of its educational nature, the
story is appropriate for both home and classroom libraries in various ways.
As a bedtime story, it will introduce children and parents to the many varied animals that inhabit Australia.
The author introduced each animal with a catchy rhyme,
followed by an interesting, fun fact that is very informative.
In the classroom, teachers can use the book to introduce students to the continent of Australia, along with its unique and diverse animal population.
The author also
references the Aboriginal people of Australia, which is another important topic
educators can include in their lesson plans.
Another feature of the book I enjoyed is the resource page at the end.
The author provides links and references readers can check out to learn even more about the animals discussed in the book.
There is even mention of a YouTube channel
where you can listen to a lyrebird and a kookaburra.
Marta Maszkiewicz’s watercolor illustrations are warm with earthy tones perfect for a book about Australia’s wildlife.
Each illustration appears accurate and is very pleasing
to the eye. I appreciated the purple and pink color scheme used for the
bandicoot’s page.
It’s obvious
the author cares deeply about Australia’s rich history, its animal kingdom, and
his readers.
I
gave it 4 Lemon Drops!
Classroom Connection:
Age Range: 3-6 years old
Targeted
Vocabulary: distinguishing, features, Eucalyptus, snooze, permanent, marsupial,
curious, secure, perched, consistent, ventures, majestic, pant, accuracy,
mimics, absorb, roosting, echolocation, prehistoric, waddles
Lesson Ideas & Resources:
A
research project on the continent of Australia, one of its many animals, or the
aboriginal people who live there.
Australia
| TPT (teacherspayteachers.com)
Literacy:
Australia
Booklet (A Country Study!) by Emily Bynum | TPT (teacherspayteachers.com)
Art:
28
Australia Activities for Kids - Taming Little Monsters
24
Amazing Australia Day Crafts for Kids - Happy Toddler Playtime
Music/Movement:
Move
like the animals that live in Australia. Hop like a kangaroo, swim like a
platypus, climb like a Tasmanian devil, dig like a wombat, squawk like a kookaburra,
run like an emu.
Gorgeous
Animal Movement Dice for Kids - Mother Natured
(2)
songs about australia for kids - YouTube
Australia Song | Song for
Kids | Countries of the World (youtube.com)
(2) Follow the Animals |
Sing and Dance Along | Australian Songs for Kids | Music for Kids - YouTube
Social Studies:
Australia:
An Introduction to the Art, Culture, Sights, and Food (teacherspayteachers.com)
Australia
(country study) by Thematic Worksheets | TPT (teacherspayteachers.com)
"Trip
to Australia" Power Point & Activities Pack! by Ashley McKenzie
(teacherspayteachers.com)
Science:
Australian
Animals preschool theme activities - KIDSPARKZ
Math:
Australian
Animals Free Activity Pack - Taming Little Monsters
Australian
Animals Graphing Printable - Life Over C's (lifeovercs.com)
About The Author:
I have always had an interest in writing
children's books, but life always seemed to get in the way. However, after
retiring from professional life, I now can pursue my passion.
I love animals and my fiancée, and I currently
have three dogs, two of which we recently adopted from a local shelter. I must
thank my fiancée for her gracious inspiration and support.
She is my editor, sounding board, and constant
companion. I am a cancer survivor and appreciate the time I have been given and
want to bring some joy into the lives of children.
I remember when my mom and dad read to me when
I was little, and I shared this tradition with my own daughter when she was
growing up.
Books have always played an important part of
my life. I forget who said it, but those who read can live a thousand lives,
but those who don't only live one.
About the Illustrator:
You can find Marta Maszkiewicz on Instagram.
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