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

Tuesday 17 November 2020

Dry To Dry: The Seasons Of Kakadu

Award winning Australian author Pamela Freeman will transport you to another world as this book explores the seasons of Kakadu National Park; from dry to wet and back to dry.

This picture book presents a dual storyline; not only does it tell the story of the breathtaking landscape of Kakadu; it also shares key facts that allow children to learn about the land and the weather cycle.

The story highlights the animals that display different attributes as their habitats merge from the dry to wet season and what the impacts are on them. 

From crocodiles that sunbake to long necked turtles that bury themselves in cool mud.

The bird species that migrate from the Arctic Circle that can include up to 280 different species with some birds flying 5,000km.

Termite mounds that grow three times higher than people that become homes to other animals.

The weather of Kakadu is hot, humid and brings a heaviness to the air that often trigger storms that bring enough rain to start the creeks flowing again. The creeks burst their banks and join creek to creek until Kakadu becomes a wetland.

Monsoon or wet season results in two out of every three days of summer rains and the landscape changes overnight.

Crocodiles no longer sunbake, instead they go hunting, thunderous waterfalls cascade over rocks and the chorus of frogs can be deafening.

Then the wet season recedes and new life along with the dry season emerges to evolve into a whole new season.

Illustrator Liz Anelli’s stunning mixed media imagery has meant the book can be considered a piece of artwork. The colours vibrate from the page trying to capture every detail and capture the true essence of Kakadu.

At the end of the book, the reader will discover additional facts about Kakadu, including that it is a dual World Heritage listed site which is spread over 20,000km. That the local Indigenous people believe there are actually six seasons not just the dry and wet seasons as we know it.

Having experienced the amazing landscape of Kakadu National Park firsthand, this exquisite book is one kids will want to pull open to explore time and again.

Title: Dry To Dry: The Seasons Of Kakadu
Author: Pamela Freeman
Illustrator: Liz Anelli
Publisher: Walker Books Australia, $26.99  
Publication Date: 1 August 2020
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781760650285
For ages: 5+
Type: Picture Books