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

Friday 15 March 2024

Review: Footprint

Walk into morning, the open air.

Wake to the wonder you find there.

Explore the wild with Footprint, a brilliant picture book for lovers of adventure, exploring and all things wild.

This lyrical tale follows a range of kids as they explore the outdoors and nature. 

It’s a bit like an instruction manual, providing inspiration for places to go but also reminding you to stop, take it slow and breathe as you go so you get to experience the moments.

It’s also a warning tale, exploring the smoke-filled maybes of cities and factories. The world that could be if we forget about the forests and fields and mountains. Subtly, it shows readers how to make a difference (and prevent the smoky future) through caring for our land, planting trees and picking up rubbish.

You carry hope and future need.
With careful footprint, plant the seed.

Walk and wander near and far.
No footprint you leave will leave a scar.


Written by Phil Cummings (author of Boy and Newspaper Hats), this is a tale for lovers of language and adventurous kids. With its gorgeous lyrical flow, it’s a lullaby in story-form that is engaging, inspiring and impactful.

Supported by stunning illustrations from Sally Soweol Han (Nightsong and Tiny Wonders), every page turn is magical. Sally’s illustration style is divine, with its soft and flowy textures.

I find myself taking a breath after each read of this story (an important instruction that features throughout the book). I feel as if I have been on a journey at the end. I feel inspired to step outside. I feel inspired to do my part to protect the planet.

This is a great book for homes and classrooms looking at environmental issues. It’s joyful and engaging, with lots for kids to explore and interpret themselves.

Title: Footprint
Author: Phil Cummings
Illustrator: Sally Soweol Han
Publisher: Allen and Unwin, $24.99
Publication Date: 27 February 2024
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781761180323
For ages: 3 - 6
Type: Picture Books