A dingo dashes through the pages of this colourful picture book, building up a sense of anticipation as we wonder where he is going. The repetition of the text invites young listeners to join in the narrative and to delight in the use of alliteration as we meet ‘nosy numbats,’ ‘gleeful gliders,’ and various other Australian animals. The final page reveals dashing dingo’s destination, providing a delightful surprise for curious young readers and listeners.
Along the journey, young children will enjoy counting, recognising and naming Australian animals and reptiles. This book provides a gentle introduction to learning about animal habitats and the concept of home; counting to ten; phonemic awareness; and environmental concerns – such as introduced species, ecological issues and taking care of the environment.
The illustrations are full of bright colour which bursts off the pages. The detail within the illustrations invites the young reader to linger over and explore each page. Art techniques, such as mixing shades of paint for contrast, can be explored. The final ‘Hide and Seek’ page invites readers to find images of both Aboriginal objects and introduced species within each page. Sally Morgan belongs to the Palyku people from the eastern Pilbara region of Western Australia. Ambelin Kwaymullina is a writer and illustrator from the Palyku people of the Pilbara in the North West region of Western Australia.
Aboriginal and or Torres Strait Islander Resource
