Review: Wombat Dreaming

What a gorgeous book this is. As well as a purring rhythmic narrative from master crafter Caz Goodwin, the illustrations from emerging artist Zoe Bennett are to die for. 

Well, maybe we don’t need to be that dramatic but you know what I mean.

Lil desperately wanted

to join in the class.

But each time she tried,

She’d land PLONK on the grass.

This story fairly bursts with goodness from start to finish. And what a refreshing change it is to meet a delightful, female wombat protagonist.

Reading Wombat Dreaming out loud is a dream – the words roll off the tongue as well as creating visuals and inviting some creative alternatives (inside my head only, of course!), and it is an absolute joy to read to small people.

The illustrations are very appealing and totally engaging. With a halo of flowering gum encircling her and a sky of blue that extends beyond the sky itself, Lil the wombat on the book’s cover brings a delightful invitation for readers to enter the story.

There are so many wonderful moments in this book, and the balance between words and images is harmonious and fun. Alongside the many laughs, are various ways to understand and help others – two building blocks for building resilience and empathy – as well as the reminder to readers that we all have unique talents.

I can’t decide whether my personal favourite illustration is of Lil lying underground in her house (which I want to live in!), or the last double spread where all the animals take on the challenge of her new yoga idea.

Either way, my jaw hurt just a little bit from smiling so much. 

This book is a masterclass in content, substance, engagement and joy.

In fact, it’s pure joy.

Highly recommended.

Title: Wombat Dreaming
Author: Caz Goodwin
Illustrator: Zoe Bennet
Publisher: Affirm $19.99
Publication Date: 27 May 2025
Format: Hardback
ISBN: 9781923046603
For Ages: 3 - 7
Type: Picture Book