AustLit

Abstract: An alienating city street gradually becomes a place to call home. Little by little, baby Tracy grows. She and her neighbours begin to rescue their street. Together, children and adults plant grass and trees and bushes in the empty spaces. They paint murals over old graffiti. They stop the cars. Everything begins to blossom. Belonging explores the re-greening of the city: the role of community, the empowerment of people and the significance of children, family and neighbourhood in changing their urban environment. The streets gradually become places for safe children's play, and community activity and places for nature and wonder.

Abstract: In an infinity of sky, tiny godwit birds follow ancient, invisible migratory pathways, flying on and on for nine nights and nine days, flying without rest... This is their story.

Circle is a poetic, eco-conscious picture book which explores the complex, interdependency of nature. This is the story of the little-known Bar-tailed Godwit which, following invisible pathways that have been used for thousands of years, undertakes the longest unbroken migration of any bird, a total of 11,000 kilometres, flying from Australia and New Zealand to their breeding grounds in the Arctic... and back again. Facing hunger and treacherous conditions to reach their destination, their flight is one of bravery, tenacity and strength, and Jeannie's stunning mixed media collages, inspired first-hand by the spectacular landscapes of Alaska and China, to take them on an extraordinary visual journey to the corners of the Earth.

Abstract: Looking for his lost fish trap, Ben thinks he sees something dark moving under the water. Is it a creature or only his imagination? Diving into the sea with his friend Sophie, he is amazed to discover a wonderful hidden world – and the rich variety of creatures that live there.

Abstract: For thousands of years changes in the Australian desert landscape have been made by the wind and sometimes the rain, but when settlers from Europe arrive with seeds, the wilderness undergoes a different change.

Abstract: Ben holds little regard for sea life. When his fish trap is tangled in the kelp his friend Sophie helps him to free it and so takes Ben under the sea where he discovers the enchanted world of the kelp forest and its inhabitants. Ben's experience turns him from fear and exploitation to exploration, wonder and delight in what he finds.

Where the Forest Meets the Sea has also been adapted into a 35min film, produced by Screen Australia. See the author's website for a preview of the film at - http://www.jeanniebaker.com/films_index.htm

Abstract: Through a house window the view gradually changes over the passage of time to show how the environment changes, not necessarily for the better.

Abstract: A tender and beautifully illustrated tale of a boy and his bird-watching uncle, on a paddling trip on Australia's Glenelg River. A story about slowing down, growing up, and connecting with the land and its creatures.

Abstract: Join Clancy and Uncle Egg on a rambling, rockhopping adventure in Gariwerd (the Grampians), to find the source of the Glenelg River. A story about following your flow, and the unexpected places you may go.

Rockhopping is a sequel to Rivertime, and once again follows Clancy as he learns about the environment and treats it with respect. The book touches on environmental issues.

Abstract: 

It's dinnertime at Grace's place.

''Thank you, alpaca,' says Grace.

''Alpaca?' asks Mama. 'Why would you thank an alpaca?'

'A playful mealtime conversation becomes a joyful act of giving thanks. From the multi-award-winning creator of Rivertime, Rockhopping and Shine.' 

This book illustrates the value of communities working together sustainably to grow and share their own foods, products and abilities. It demonstrates how each gesture connects to another. 

Abstract: Represents a series of Australian landscapes and habitats in 'patterns' as seen through the eyes of acclaimed indigenous artist Bancroft. Each landscape contains animals, birds, plants and flowers particular to that landscape hidden within it.

Abstract: The selection of colours, animals, and words and the new format makes this the perfect book for toddlers. Each page depicts an Australian word taken from the original book, creating a captivating reference that celebrates the uniqueness of Australia and its language.

Abstract: From the coast to the outback, from cities to plains, from dramatic gorges to rugged alpine peaks, from deserts to rainforests ... Australia is a continent of many and varied landscapes. Each of them is dramatic and all inspire awe and reverence. In this glorious book, Aboriginal artist Bronwyn Bancroft explores both the country and her feelings for it.

Abstract: It’s the holidays and Sam Fox has gone to the high country to stay with his grandparents. While trying to stop cattle rustlers from stealing a stud bull, an injured Sam is isolated in the mountains during a horrific bushfire. To survive, he must rely on his courage, ingenuity, and the help of Chainsaw - the meanest, crankiest, most dangerous bull in the history of Australian rodeo!

Abstract: It's not a race!' puffed Harry. He was wrong, Jordan thought. It was a life and death race. When a bushfire threatens the Nullambine Koala Sanctuary, Mission Fox is on the case. It's a race against time, but with a little help from doggy friends both old and new, thirty koalas might just have a chance of survival . . .

Abstract: Twelve years from now, rat flu has wiped out almost every animal and bird on the planet. The creatures in Captain Noah's Lost World Circus are the last of their kind. But the Rat Cops are determined to shut down the circus, and Colt and his acrobat friend Birdy might be the only ones who can save it, starting with Lucy - the world's last elephant.

Abstract: The Leadbeater's possums were thought to be gone; logging, destruction and fire had forced them to flee! But if we take care of the trees and their habitat, they might just come back...look, what's up in that tree?

See also the section on Endangered Species - Australian Wildlife Under Threat.

Abstract: Neville the devil is being quite naughty, sneaking behind his mum in the night. he wants to learn what she does, he wants an adventure before it gets light!

Dot and the Kangaroo is an animated adaptation of Ethel Pedley's 1899 publication of the same name.

"Dot, the little daughter of settlers in the Australian outback, loses her way in the bush. Terrified by the strange sounds and dark shadows she is soon befriended by a kangaroo. Dot travels in the pouch of the kangaroo on an adventure-packed journey. She meets many other bush animals including a koala, a platypus and a kookaburra, and is even chased by angry dingoes. Finally with the help of the bush creatures she finds her way home." (Yoram Gross Films)

Dot is featured in a number of other films by Yoram Gross Films, each dealing with protecting and rescuing (mainly Australian) animals. These films include: Around the World with Dot (1981); Dot and the Bunny (1984); Dot and the Koala (1985); Dot and Keeto (1986); Dot and the Whale (1986); Dot and the Smugglers (1986); and Dot Goes to Hollywood (1987)

Blinky Bill: The Mischievous Koala is an adaptation of Blinky Bill, the character conceived by Dorothy Wall in the 1933 publication Blinky Bill: Quaint Little Australian

"The film tells the story of Blinky Bill's childhood with his animal friends in the bush. The peace and charm of their existence is shattered by the destruction of their homes by humans. Blinky Bill rallies his friends and, in a series of exciting adventures, rescues his mother from captivity. The film contains specially composed songs and is delightfully animated on beautiful hand-painted bush backgrounds." (Yoram Gross Films)

Yoram Gross Film Studies later adapted Blinky Bill in the animated television series The Adventures of Blinky Bill. "The [first] series tells of Blinky Bill and his friends' efforts to rebuild the village in Greenpatch following its destruction by humans. The main characters, Blinky Bill, Nutsy, Splodge, Flap and Marcia are reunited after the destruction of their village, have chosen a site for their new home and are cautiously settling in. But the story is about more than rebuilding their demolished homes. It is also about how these animals re-establish themselves as a community and how they come to terms with their new neighbours, the Dingoes." (Yoram Gross Films)

Abstract: In a desperate bid to rescue a whale stranded on a beach, Dot and Neptune, the dolphin, hunt the ocean depths searching for a wise old octopus called The Oracle who knows how to save whales.

All of the marine wildlife have voices, and show emotion; the sadness in their voices, particularly the stranded whale, is palpable. The 2D animation is interspersed with real world underwater footage of Australia's oceans.

At one point, when Dot is swimming underwater, she exclaims "Look at all that rubbish, sometimes I feel so ashamed to be a human." (18 mins) 

The film also contains a number of songs that are heavy with morality, conservation themes and please and cries for help. For example, after meeting Moby Dick who says it is up to humans to decide what happens to whales now, he asks "Why can't they just leave us alone?" - a song by the same title follows, asking the same question. It speaks of agony, peace and sharing the world with "all God's creatures".

Abstract: A companion to 'At The Beach', 'In The Bush' takes our family on a holiday to Wombat Flats, a bushland setting where they enjoy a range of bush holiday activities including: horseriding, hiking, exploring caves, swimming in waterholes as well as discovering a whole range of Australian fauna and fauna.

Abstract: Roland Harvey and his new pelican friend are off on an adventure to walk, fish, canoe, raft, windsurf, sail, paddle-steam, houseboat and even fly their way along the Murray River, from its smallest beginnings in the high country to where it meets the sea...Together they discover the story of the river: its secrets, history, ecology, people and animals. And you're invited, too!.

This picture demonstrates human impact on the Murray River, and illustrates how the river thrives where humans are scarce.

Abstract: Hooray! for the bestest holiday in the WHOLE world. We started in the wonderful wilds of Tassie then braved the big waves of Bass Strait in a tiny ferry, and then travelled all the way to the very tip of the Top End. On the way we saw the most AMAZING places, even a whole town underground! Join us on our crazy cross-country trip from Tassie to the Top End.

Each double-page spread contains detailed illustrations about different locations of Australia as part of the characters' journey from Tasmania to the Top End. They travel through Bass Strait, the Murray River, Flinders Ranges, Coober Pedy, Kata Tjuta, the Great Barrier Reef, the Daintree, Mystery Island, and Kakadu, among others. As ever, Harvey's illustrations are extremely detailed, containing hidden gems that speak volumes regarding human interactions with the environment around them, see for example, the Murray River scene which shows that human activity has taken over the river leaving little room for wildlife and vegetation, and causing pollution. Many of the illustrations also feature endangered or extinct animals, for example the spread set in Tasmania features many Tasmanian devils, and thylacines.

Abstract: The Wombats and their teachers, Ms Annabel and Mrs Nott, are off to the zoo. WC Audrey bonds with bilbies, Alecia is on safari, Hughie wants to race a camel. Freddie explores underwater with his magic eye, Horrie is shocked by snaked, and Ima plays harmonica with a crocodile. Ava whistles to the wild dogs, Naucia wants to take a meerkat home, Nurse Sardi helps in the animal hospital. Dante shoots hoops with the seals, Oliver admires the cheetah and Albert calculates just how much one hippo can eat... By the end of the day, the Wombats don't want to leave. Can you help Mrs Nott find out where they all went?

Abstract: The Bushwalk is a story I hope will encourage children to explore whatever may be accessible to them, a reserve, a park or their own backyard. The animals featured are common across a wide range of habitats in Australia.

Abstract: Each year monsoonal rain sweep across the Top End and the green tree frogs clamber from their hiding places to feed, breed and sing! Green Tree Frogs is an affectionate celebration of these cheeky characters of life in the wet season. It also provides an entertaining insight into the amphibious life cycle. (Source: back cover)

This picture book illustrates how green tree frogs thrive in wet weather, and how they live and interact with an urban garden, e.g. basking in the warm lights, using the paddle pond to lay eggs etc.

Teacher's notes are available here.

Abstract: A quoll is visited by the spirit of the thylacine, who helps her and her babies to find a new home after cane toads move into her habitat.

'Quoll was inspired by The Island Ark Program in the Northern Territory. The program has relocated Quoll populations to remote islands off Arnheim Land in an effort to protect them from the "invasion" of Cane Toads. The story is one Quoll's plight and brave journey she must take to keep her family safe.' (From the publisher's website.)

Abstract: From armadillo to zebras, chameleons to quetzals, these exotic animals will surprise and delight. No curious explorer should be without Marc Martin's stunning celebration of strange and beautiful creatures from all over the world.

Abstract: This picture book traces the encroachment of a city upon a forest until it is no longer. However, when torrential rains destroy the city the forest slowly regenerates.

Abstract: From Hong Kong to the Amazon and Ulaanbaatar to Antarctica, come on a guided journey around the world and discover the many things that make each place unique. Sleepy sloths, colourful cows, prolific pastries, staggering skylines, terrible traffic, bustling bodies, burglarising baboons . . . you’ll be surprised by what you find along the way!

Abstract: Max and Bob are old friends. Max helps out in Bob's shop, and in the evenings they go fishing together. Until one summer, when everything changes...

Max, a seagull, relies on Bob's fish and chips store as a food source, but urban expansion takes over the area and the shop is relocated. Max tries to find Bob's new store.

Abstract: So begins an imaginary journey from the city to the sea. From factories to farmlands, freeways to forest, each new landscape is explored through stunning illustrations and poetic text from this award-winning picture-book creator.

Abstract: 'Possum loved the deep dark. But when Moon rose high in the sky, he loved midnight even more.' One night the midnight possum meets a mother who has lost one of her babies, and so he bravely sets out to find it.

The Midnight Possum illustrates the dangers to possums and their babies when they live close to human houses: chimneys, gutters etc are dangerous, as are the pets that live inside the houses.

Abstract: Nine-year-old Alex is not impressed about the prospect of spending a few days with his grandfather. Gramps and his friends are environmental activists and when Alex and his parents arrive, Gramps is tied to a tree — with a large crowd and a television reporter in attendance. It is not the first time Alex has been embarrassed by Gramps.

Not deterred by Alex’s silence, Gramps gives him chocolate cake and a gumleaf to wear around his neck, so that he will always have a piece of the bush with him. He also shows Alex a piece of wood and wire which he claims is part of the rabbit-proof fence. Gramps comments that the invading rabbits had much in common with some developers today, as both ruin the land.

Homesick and tired, Alex falls asleep with the gumleaf still around his neck. But when he ‘wakes’ he is out in the scrub, and discovers to his horror that he has huge feet, paws and a tail. Alex befriends a group of native animals and learns of their fears about a large group of scary rabbits who are coming to take over their land. He calls on the animals to help him get home, but first they need to devise a way for him to get over the fence that has been built to keep the rabbits out.

Using the skills of each member of the group, Alex finds his way back home and helps the native animals to face their fears. On his return, he has a new appreciation for the way Gramps and his friends work together to save the bush. (Source: National Museum of Australia)

Abstract: Abstract: Sam is a young boy who like most young boys of this generation loves computers, DVDs, iPods and iPhones. He hates the Australian bush and the outdoors. Sam would be happy if it all disappeared.

Abstract: 'In my head, I'm some place else

I hear the crack of flaming wood

smell smoky campfire burning

lean against Mum's knee

listen to grannies tell stories

In my head, I'm home'

Taken far from everyone and everything she knows and love, Annie must make a new life in a strange world. A sister-friend brings fresh hope, but can it last?

A young Aboriginal girl is taken from the north of Australia and sent to an institution in the distant south. There, she slowly makes a new life for herself and, in the face of tragedy, finds strength in new friendships. Poignantly told from the child’s perspective, Sister Heart affirms the power of family and kinship.

The narrator and her friends find solace in the environment around them, through the flora, fauna and language of their respective families. Sister Heart is told in verse.

Abstract: One of the most prized treasure collected by beachcombers around the world is the parchment-like egg case of an octopus called argonaut, popularly known as the Paper Nautilus.

This picture book follows the daily life of an argonaut, and also contains scientific information about the species.

Abstract: Ten plays inspired by previously published books written by Jill Morris.

Abstract: The dingo population of Fraser Island off the Queensland coast are among the purest breed of a species which arrived from Asia about 4000 years ago. Human development on the island has encouraged unnatural feeding patterns in the dingoes, and some have been involved in threatening attacks.

This picture book contains a narrative, as well as substantial non-fiction sections detailing the dingo species and the environment of Fraser Island.

Abstract: A colony of rare frogs, hiding in a secret subterranean cavern, send a team of brave young warriors to investigate a return to the rainforest world above.

Abstract: When Orni the playtpus goes in search of a deeper home, he discovers how important his creek has been to many platypuses over millions of years.

Orni accidently swims 'downstream' where the creeks and rivers are polluted by humans.

Abstract: The Rainbow Warrior was the name of the ship that sailed the world under the banner of Greenpeace, defending the environment. Although the ship was destroyed in an act of sabotage, its spirit lives on.

Abstract: Big Foot the hairy-nosed wombat faces a dangerous predator, while people are quietly rallying around to save his species.

Based on real-life events in a small national park in Queensland. Includes factual information about wombats.

Abstract: Set around an old gum tree, 'Bush Secrets' reveals the many creatures that rely on the old eucalypt for their food, shelter, and as a place to raise their young. The cycle of life and death in nature is narrated in a lively and informative way. Bush Secrets sheds light on some of the many mysteries of the bush - who feeds off whom; who is afraid of whom; which animals come out at night; and which come out during the day. Fascinating and intricate relationships between the flora and fauna surrounding the gum tree are revealed, and the illustrations capture the diversity and magic of the Australian landscape.

Abstract: One of the bush creatures has dropped its tail on the bush track. Who does it belong to? Did a sleep grey koala lose it? Is it a quoll's tail? This beautiful picture book inspires young readers to use a bit of detective work to discover who has lost the spiky little tail.

Abstract: The devastating effects of an oil spill are revealed by focusing on the plight of the little fairy penguins caught up in the disaster.

Abstract: In the rainforest a new day is dawning. Early morning mists leave the forest wet and dripping. Brightly coloured kingfishers perch above the creek, while butterflies flutter among the blossoms. Suddenly the gentle sounds of the rainforest are shattered! The man-made sounds of heavy machines tearing into the undergrowth, toppling trees and crushing everything in their path, echo into the depths of the forest until the end of the day...

Abstract: Every year, green sea turtles swim through the deep waters of the Pacific Ocean to lay their eggs on the beaches of a coral reef. Guided by the stars and sea currents, the turtles swim day and night until at last they reach the reef. Their long journey is over, but the danger they face has just begun ...

Abstract: Describes the changing climate of the wetlands, and the way in which this affects the many animals there.

Abstract: Take a peek through the peepholes and discover the secret hiding places of baby bilby and other Australian desert creatures.

Abstract: Lyrebird, Coucal, Pitta and Nightjar are groundbirds of the Australian forest floor. Although as different from each other as it is possible to be, they always watch out for danger and warn each other to hide. A classic tale from the forest floor about the dangers of vanity and the value of being different.

Abstract: Leaf Tail is a lizard. But he is no ordinary lizard, and he lives in a far from ordinary place. For he is a Northern Leaf-tailed Gecko and his home is the rainforest of Queensland. The author takes us on a journey into the Australian rainforest. Here we meet some of the fascinating wildlife of the mysterious world.

Abstract: Nestling between rocks...

Hiding in the seaweed...

Lift the flap and discover many rock pool secrets!

Abstract: The Dead Heart is a desert wilderness in the centre of Australia. It is difficult to imagine anything can exist in such a harsh place. But the Dead Heart has a secret. It holds amazing stories of adaptation and survival. Follow in the footsteps of early explorers like Charles Sturt and learn what the indigenous people of this land first discovered: not all is quite as it seems.

Abstract: The story of a bilby who leads a peaceful life, until the the feral animals take over. A sanctuary is finally made for the endangered species, and they begin to rebuild their lives.

Abstract: At rare intervals great floods fill the desert basin of Lake Eyre in Central Australia, and for a while wildlife teems along the shore. But the miracle is short-lived. In the fierce summer heat the lake shrinks, the water turns to brine and the fish die. Birds such as pelicans then face a vast flight across the desert to the southern coast, and many die along the way. Pannikin and Pinta is the story of a pelican family that sets out on that heroic journey.

Abstract: Descriptive account with a conservation message, accompanied by Mike McKelvey's photographs.

Abstract: A pod of southern right whales appears in Dolphin Bay, right near Wendy's farm and she and one of the female whales, Misty, become soul mates. The arrival of whale-watching tourists, with boats and helicopters threatens the whales, and Wendy and her friends learn a lot about the history of whaling and present-day illegal slaughter.

Abstract: Swim, count and sing through a kaleidoscope of colour and coral through a picture information book set on the world's beautiful, but fragile reef ecosystems. The reader is challenged to find and identify a myriad of unique ocean inhabitants. Each illustration a highly detailed hand painted silk and each showcasing the animals who need our immediate help and protection.

Abstract: Whip the wind and sprinkle the seedlings, add a pinch of butterflies and stir in 4 baby turtles, just cracked from their eggs. These are just some of the delicious 'green' ingredients to create Perfect Planet Pie.

Abstract: A stunning picture information book by multi-award winning illustrator and author. Spend a day in the life of a prehistoric predator - the saltwater crocodile. Meander through poetic text to find out why this resilient reptile has withstood the test of time and truly is the last of the mighty dinosaurs.

Abstract: An alphabet book introducing each letter of the alphabet with an underwater theme. Includes factual information on sea creatures and hand painted silk illustrations.

Abstract: Nine different habitats and forty-five fascinating creatures feature in this spectacular portrayal of the rare and fragile beauty of North Queensland. Search through the ecosystems, discover the unique creatures and find out how these environmental worlds interact. The nine habitats cover Air, River, Forest, Mangrove, Beach, Tide pool, Reef, Atoll and Ocean.

Abstract: Lilah has a fairy friend she plays with every day. One day her fairy friend isn't there, so Lilah begins a search through the Australian Bush brimming with spring time life. Can Lilah find her fairy friend hiding with a spring surprise?

As Lilah searches for her 'fairy friend', which is in fact a type of bird - the Splendid Fairy Wren - she encounters all sorts of Australian flora and fauna. The illustrations are demonstrative of the abundance of diverse life found within Australian bushland. This book is a celebration of Australian natural habitats.

Abstract: When Hug first climbs out of his mother's pouch it is spring, deep in the Australian Bush. The trees are in blossom and new green growth is everywhere. As Hug grows, the season changes to the sharp dry crackle of summer. One day danger comes to the bush and Mama must flee to protect her baby, Hug.

Mama koala is injured in a bushfire, and a mother and son rescue the koalas and care for Mama until she is able to return to the bush. The story highlights the importance of caring for injured wildlife and the devastation caused by bushfires.

Abstract: William plays a fun filled imaginative game with his family and the Australian bush creatures. Join William the Wild once again for an Australian wildlife adventure.

On a camping trip, William looks for Australian wildlife in the bush. As he finds them he asks his family why they do this or that to understand the animals, their behaviour and habitat. William then tries to copy the animals activity in order to better understand the wildlife around him. 

See other books about William the Wild by Leanne White .

Abstract: River Dreams is the fourteenth collection of children's writing and art published as part of Special forever: an environmental communications project, a partnership between the Murray-Darling Basin Commission and Primary English Teaching Association.

This collection is as alive with birds, lizards, livestock and people as are the million square kilometres of the Basin itself. The children of this part of Australia are full participants in their communities and ecosystems. They drive the tractors, round up the cattle, help with shearing and watching the weather with the same hopeful, clear gaze as their parents. They listen to their elders, the Aboriginal custodians of dreamings and the nannas and grandpas who remember the floods and the fun times of their own childhood.

And they explore the natural worlds - wetlands and dry - that are united and defined by this great river system. Not a frog, a damselfly, a wren or a tiny bush flower is ignored; all these and more are seen, scented, drawn and described in these pages.

This collection of poems, stories and pictures show that the children of the Murray-Darling Basin strongly appreciate their natural and cultural heritage. Browse through the pages and be refreshed by their energy and humour, by their thoughtfulness, and by their sharp observations about their world and its future.

Abstract: Spirit of Place is the eleventh collection of children's writing and art published as part of Special Forever: An Environmental Communications Project, a partnership between the Murray-Darling Basin Commission and Primary English Teaching Association.

The words and pictures in this collection describe what it means to be growing up with, and within the unique million square kilometres of the Australian landscape known as the Murray-Darling Basin.

From drought to flood, from history to the future, from reconciliation to sustainable natural resource management - there appears to be no topic too large or challenging for these children to tackle. Each individual piece, whether describing a favourite place, a beloved person, an animal, a plant or a way to fix environmental damage, evokes a sense of place and a desire for understanding. As a collection, these words and images capture a strong spirit of a special place.

See Plant Pest Investigation with Lily and Sam.

See Exploring Soils : A Hidden World Underground, Animal Eco-Warriors : Humans and Animals Working Together to Protect Our Planet, Phasmid : Saving the Lord Howe Island Stick Insect, and Bouncing Back.

See Deepsea Whale Rescue.

See Chooks in Dinner Suits : A Tale of Big Dogs and Little Penguins; Lyrebird! A True Story; and Museum Victoria Nature Series.

See Dhyum the Dugong and Myrtle's Battle Against Climate Change.

See The Squid, the Vibrio & the Moon and Zobi and the Zoox.

See the Captain Plop series: Captain Plop and the Tour de Recycle; Captain Plop's Water-Saving Mission, and Captain Plop : The Desalination Adventure.

According to the publisher's website, copies of these books have been distributed across South Australian schools, and apps of the books are available to complement the publications. (SAWC, 2013).

See Tuart Dwellers.