Based on the popular family song by an iconic
Australian entertainer, this picture book celebrates our beloved but endangered
koala. It is also a call by Williamson to protect eucalyptus trees, which
koalas rely on for food, water, and shelter. The singer/songwriter says, ‘We
need to keep their homes safe from bushfires, cars and motorbikes, dogs, and land
clearing for new houses, roads and farming. We can all contribute by planting more eucalyptus trees wherever possible in areas where koalas reside, and by joining the effort to
protect the remaining unique forests.
Williamson’s text in the book follows these
sentiments. For example, on a beautifully illustrated double page, there is a
picture on the left-hand side of a koala perched up a roadside sign, looking at
four children who are planting trees. The text reads, ‘We’ve gotta learn how to
help you survive. I’ll grow a gum tree today.’ Another page reads, ‘Put a water
bowl on the ground’, with a picture of a koala drinking from the bowl.
The last few pages read, ‘Koalas, you used to be
everywhere; what a wonderful place it could be…A walk in the bush could be
heaven. Please bring back the forest for me.’
This book is the latest instalment in the bestselling
series of picture books inspired by Williamson’s songs.
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