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

Sunday 11 August 2013

Review: Wombat Went A' Racing

The star of Wombat Went A’ Walking returns in a fun-filled picture book about the bush sports carnival.

Wombat is excited. Today he will get together with his friends for the bush sports carnival. He takes part in all the events, but someone else always manages to come first. Will Wombat find the event where he can excel?

Wombat Went A’ Racing emphasises the fun of taking part in activities, even if you don’t come first. Wombat does eventually find the race where he can win a medal, but the focus is on having fun with his friends and a wonderful sense of community as all the native animals gather together for the carnival.

It is great to see some of the less familiar Australian native animals appearing in the illustrations along with the more iconic Aussie animals. Emu, Kangaroo, Kookaburra, Platypus and Wombat are joined by Cassowary, Goanna and Dugong (and many others) for the fun of the day.

Bright, colourful illustrations of native animals and lots of activity are sure to appeal to young readers and I can imagine this book being read in kindergarten and infants classrooms in the lead up to school sporting carnivals.

Title: Wombat Went A' Racing
Illustrator: Lachlan Creagh
Publisher: Lothian Children's Books, $14.99 RRP
Publication Date: 30 June 2013
Format: Soft cover
ISBN: 9780734413949
For ages: 3 - 7
Type: Picture book