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

Wednesday 29 March 2017

Review: Magic Fish Dreaming

Discover the ancient and magical land of far north Queensland through this enchanting illustrated book of poetry.

Explore the spirit at the heart of rainforests, sugar-cane fields and ocean shores. And wonder at the beauty of nature; the stars, the wildlife and the people.

This is a mesmerising book to share with children of all ages, or to savour, alone, one quiet night.

It's a glorious way to teach children about honouring indigenous ancestry and celebrating the Australian landscape and wildlife.

Perkins weaves a rhythmical spell through her 17 poems, from the joyful to the reflective, her words dancing with the luminous illustrations to evoke the spirit of people and place.

Children are encouraged to explore and interact with the poetry, as with the wildlife, as Perkins pays homage to ancient traditions, to diverse cultures and the force of nature, which has the power to soothe or destroy. She captures the detrimental effects of environmental pests, and shares the pain of farmers and wildlife at the mercy of nature.

Magisson's soft palette and fluid style accentuate the sense of magic. Wonder and imagination flow from each word and brushstroke, making this a book to be treasured and shared.

Title: Magic Fish Dreaming
Author: June Perkins
Illustrator: Helene Magisson
Publisher: Gumbootspearlz Press, $17.99
Publication Date: 8 October 2016
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9780980731187
For ages: 4+
Type: Picture Book