Wobble, waddle, toddle
By Anne Hunter
Illustrated by Dave Gunson
ISBN 9781776890088
Bateman Books
This is a gorgeously illustrated collection of poems about the wildlife along the shores, and beneath the seas, from Australia, New Zealand and all the way to Antarctica.
The rhyming poems are about whales, penguins, dolphins, the Royal albatross and many more.
The illustrations are cute and show lots of personality. The last few pages provide further facts and details for extra reading.
I do love the colours. Lots of blues just like the animals natural environment.
A good choice for preschools and primary schools as children discover animals and learn about poetry.
Nature’s alphabet : A New Zealand Nature Trail
By Andrew Crowe
Illustrated by Dave Gunson
ISBN 9781776890163
Bateman Books
A run through the alphabet in this book gives us bite-sized information about a variety of New Zealand’s wildlife. I found J for the Jumping Spider very interesting. I never knew they had so many eyes; eight to be exact. That is kind of scary even though they are harmless.
Author Andrew Crowe, knows his animals, creatures, insects and trees and provides the reader with interesting facts to whet the appetite.
Dave Gunson brings his artistic talents with warmth and detail.
There is an alphabetical list at the back which is a checklist for creatures to find within the pages of the book. This is a fun interactive book.
Row, row, row your waka (New Maori and English edition. CD and sheet music included)
Written and illustrated by Rebecca Larsen
ISBN 9781776890316
Bateman Books
Meet some of New Zealand’s favourite birds and animals as a group of friends sail across the sea. Kiwi, Pukeko and Hoiho journey over the ocean heading for a holiday in Australia. This is an updated edition with bilingual Te Reo Maori and English text.
The book comes with a CD which makes it fun and a good companion for car rides for children to sing along too. The illustrations are bright and bold with a child-like quality making it a good choice for younger children. The repetitive text and familiar tune will make this fun and no doubt a favourite for younger children.