'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Sunday 8 April 2012

Review: The Smallest Bilby and the Easter Tale

We have all seen the delicious chocolate Easter bilbies on the shelves around Easter, but do you know how the concept of the Australian Easter Bilby came about?



Billy the Easter Bilby was first introduced in the 1970's by Rose-Marie Dusting as part of a conservation message, to draw attention to the endangered Australian bibly and other threatened species, and to foster a love for Australian wildlife. Since then the concept of the Easter Bilby has grown in stature and recognition.

The Smallest Bilby and the Easter Tale is the third companion title to The Smallest Bilby and the Midnight Star, The Smallest Bilby and Easter Games.

In this book, it is the night before Easter and Billy and his friends are going to deliver the Easter eggs for the very first time.

They have such a wonderful time delivering eggs to the hooting owls and chattering fruit bats. Bandicoots, wombats, possums and quolls. They are very, very careful to make sure they don't miss anyone.

But what will happen when one of them gets into trouble?

Teamwork, courage and an old friend pop up again to help. Just who do you think that old friend might be?

A lovely Australian Easter story to share. Upholding the original conservation message of the Easter Bilby that would put the biggest of big smiles on Rose-Marie Dusting's face.

*Note: This story has actually been authorised by Rose-Marie

Happy Easter!


Title: The Smallest Bilby and the Easter Tale
Author: Nette Hilton
Illustrator: Bruce Whatley
Publisher: Working Title Press, $24.95 RRP
Publication Date: February 2012
Format: Hardback
ISBN: 9781921504426
For ages: 3+
Type: Picture Book