Chris McKimmie’s style is unmistakably his own. This book rewards several readings and affirms the complementarity of the author being the illustrator. McKimmie is a very assured illustrator who is both skilled and witty in execution. McKimmie’s bizarre and humorous print text is well suited to the insightful illustrations showing the problems of our desire to keep and cage pets. With very few words and deceptively simple drawings, this book gives readers lots to ponder and discuss. Vivid colours, first-person narrative and various media combine to communicate the understated final message. Child-like and sophisticated at the same time, the story opens with an opening cage to set the tone. The blank double-page spread with the ‘aha’ moment, which simply says 'Oh.', is genius. To then turn to another double-page spread of just the sky with the bird flying is amazing. It further creates a beautiful resolution to the story. This book exploits economy in its exemplification of 'less is more'—so much more!

Book Week Updates

We have received confirmation that the National Book Week has been moved to Term 4.  The theme for this year is “Curious Creatures, Wild Minds” and will be held from October 17 to 23.  As a result, we have also moved the Scholastic Book Fair to the same week in Term 4.

We are excited to announce that author, Phil Cummings will be visiting us on October 27 and 28.

Also taking place in Term 4 will be the announcement of the winner of the 2020 Children’s Book Council of Australia Book of the Year Awards – this will take place just prior to the Book Week on October 16.