ABBEY'S BOOKSELLER PICK ----- Gilbert's Potoroo (Ngilkat in the indigenous Noongar language) was considered extinct but a remnant population was rediscovered in 1994 at Two Peoples Bay. This simple story follows the plight of one male potoroo who was caught up in the calamitous recent fires of the area, and his rehabilitation and eventual release in a new sanctuary created by farseeing scientists and volunteers in another location. The illustrations are energetic and colourful, and capture the flora and fauna of the bush sympathetically. Additional factual material at the back of the book enhances the narrative text. Another laudable production from the CSIRO, who are bringing excellent nonfiction to primary-school-aged readers. Lindy
When a bushfire destroys Potoroo's home, he becomes one of the last surviving Gilbert's Potoroos at Two Peoples Bay in Western Australia. Frightened, hurt and alone, Potoroo needs a new home - somewhere safe from predators and with plenty of his favourite food. Luckily, a team of conservationists know where Potoroo can go to be safe.
Penny Jaye is an award-winning author of books for children and older readers. From picture books to young adult fiction, Penny writes to find beauty, hope, strength and love in even the toughest situations. Alicia Rogerson is an artist and illustrator who spends her days painting and dreaming. Based in Bridgetown, WA, her studio sits within the rural countryside on a hill beside a forest. Inspired by nature, objects and collections of things, her bold artworks spark the imagination and remind us of people or places we treasure.
ABBEY'S BOOKSELLER PICK ----- Gilbert's Potoroo (Ngilkat in the indigenous Noongar language) was considered extinct but a remnant population was rediscovered in 1994 at Two Peoples Bay. This simple story follows the plight of one male potoroo who was caught up in the calamitous recent fires of the area, and his rehabilitation and eventual release in a new sanctuary created by farseeing scientists and volunteers in another location. The illustrations are energetic and colourful, and capture the flora and fauna of the bush sympathetically. Additional factual material at the back of the book enhances the narrative text. Another laudable production from the CSIRO, who are bringing excellent nonfiction to primary-school-aged readers. Lindy
Penny Jaye and Alicia Rogerson have produced a delightful and beautifully illustrated children's book with a simple story interwoven with accurate information about the world's rarest marsupial, Gilbert's potoroo. Its pages reflect the current knowledge available on this animal and gently expose the greatest immediate threats to its persistence. The positive message that effective conservation efforts are in place to save this species provide the reader with reassurance that the potoroo will survive. -- Dr Tony Friend * Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions WA * The striking nature of the illustrations support the emotions of the story. They immerse the reader in the scenery of the West Australian bush, making us feel that we're right there caught up in the tense predicament of this brave marsupial. -- Sarah Stivens * CBCA Reading Time *