"Koala Lou","Diary of a Wombat", and "Possum Magic"

Koala Lou
by Mem Fox
A mother koala regularly reassures her child of her importance until mother is preoccupied with Koala Lou's new sibling. Koala Lou learns to become more independent, but also learns that her mother is still there for her when she needs her. This story presents familiar emotions that can help children to enhance reading comprehension by making connections with literature.


Diary of a Wombat (Ala Notable Children's Books. Younger Readers (Awards))

This slow-moving wombat keeps a diary of his days. The sheer uneventfulness, punctuated by frequent naps, makes for a funny story. Most kids in the U.S. have not encountered wombats and a video or stuffed animal may help them to become more familiar with them. Here is a lovely example of journal writing that will entertain, or a great introduction to Australian animals.



Possum Magic (Voyager Books)
by Mem Fox
Australian possums are a different animal from the opossums familiar to Americans. Although they look similar and are also marsupials, Australian possums have membranes between their legs and body that allow them to glide from tree to tree like a flying squirrel. The possums in this story are thoroughly humanized, and Grandma Poss and grandchild Hush search for the special Australian food (most, like Vegemite, unheard of in the U.S.) that will reverse the magic spell that has made Hush invisible. If you are interested in sparking interest in Australia or stretching the knowledge base of your American children with a delightful story by a proven author, this book will deliver.


Story Props for "Koala Lou", "Diary of a Wombat" and "Possum Magic"