The Frog’s First Song (Jazz Money, illus Jason Phu, UQP)

Award-winning Wiradjuri poet Jazz Money (how to make a basket, mark the dawn) and three-time Archibald Prize finalist illustrator Jason Phu have come together to create an uplifting, joyous tale about frogs and friendship. From the first spread – entirely black with only a few scant white lines – a riot of colour and song develops as a frog discovers they are not alone in the world. As the frogs band together, they learn to push boundaries and find new possibilities, concluding with this simple but profound message: ‘even in dark times, when we come together with song or dance or story, suddenly the world is brighter … and no one needs to be alone.’ Playful and surprising, The Frog’s First Song showcases Money’s poetic skill, bringing depth to the simplicity of the picture book form. Taking elements of Chinese parables and First Nations Creation stories, Money and Phu craft an entirely new and charming ode to community and artistic expression. Phu’s first outing as an illustrator (distinct from his burgeoning career as a contemporary artist) perfectly complements Money’s cheeky, quirky tone; his frogs are deceptively simple and brimming with joy. Every element of the design is in harmony to create an exquisite, unique package that will be adored by children aged 3+ and artists alike.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Annie Waters sells books, writes about books and podcasts about books. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

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