Lion Is That You?

 

Lion Is That You? by Moira Court (Freemantle Press) ISBN 9781760991241 RRP $24.99 

Reviewed by Claire Stuckey

Are there really lions in Australia? This delightful picture book answers this question with a clue on the first double page spread. A clever look and reveal story we see parts of Australian animals hidden in various landscapes all created from prints and/or collage techniques. Each animal is revealed on the next page with another clue hidden within.

There are so many great features in this picture book, children will love guessing the animals, looking for “bones” of ancient creatures and listening to the beautiful language. An introduction to the concept of camouflage, the reader seeks out and identifies the fauna of Australia which adds even more enjoyment to this title. The text is well developed with language that encourages intonation, using alliteration and rhyme which means adults will love reading aloud to one child or a group. This fabulous book will be enjoyed by families, in childcare centres, libraries and in the classroom. I loved Moira Court’s last picture book Dog Park: this title adds to her clever and creative body of work.

 As I finished my review reading with my 4-year-old granddaughter, she insisted that she MUST have this book at home to read again with her daddy tonight!

Highly recommended for ages 3-6 years.