Big Red Kangaroo (Clare Saxby, illus by Graham Byrne, Walker Books)

Big Red Kangaroo is a beautifully illustrated picture book that combines narrative and fact to create an accessible introduction to this fascinating creature. The subject of the book is of course the red kangaroo, which lives in inland Australia—one of the country’s harshest environments. The reader learns not only about the social lives of these animals but also about the environment in which they live. Big Red Kangaroo is visually stunning. Alongside the story, each page is packed full of interesting facts, which makes it accessible to a wide range of readers aged six and up. The depth of information within the book will make it a great resource for schools and libraries, but as the information seems to be pitched at a more advanced level than the format, it may not enjoy such a wide appeal in retail settings. This book is an innovative addition to the children’s nonfiction genre and a great way for children to learn about one of Australia’s iconic animals.

Natalie Crawford is a freelance reviewer and works at Dymocks Claremont

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Category: Reviews