AustLit

Abstract: This book is an action-packed adventure with an amazing mob of animal eco-warriors as they use their special talents to help solve our planet’s environmental problems!

Chapter three is about biosecurity in Antarctica and surrounding islands, including Macquarie Island. It is about real world animals working to keep these areas free of pests such as rodents and cats, and disease.

Abstract: Antarctica is a desert, vast and frozen. Yet there is life in Antarctica. Abundant, wonderful life. The land does not feed the millions of animals that manage to survive in this harsh and beautiful place. The ocean fuels Antarctica's life.

Written and researched in Antarctica with stunning sketches and watercolours completed on site, Antarctic Journal creates a vibrant sense of the crowded Antarctic summer. Experience Antarctic expeditioners Meredith Hooper and Lucia deLeiris travelled for three and a half months, selected by the US Antarctic Artists & Writers Program. 

This unique journal includes information on the Antarctic eco-system, climate change, the food web, maps and an index. 

This is a work of narrative non-fiction.

Abstract: Antarctica is the highest, driest, windiest, coldest, cleanest, most isolated and most peaceful continent on Earth. It is a continent of wilderness, a place of enormous size and energy, of constant change and of great and rare beauty. To enter into Antarctica is to enter into a powerhouse, into the very heart of our Earth. Children can undertake their own journey to Antarctica with this comprehensive and highly illustrated guide. Learn about Antarctica's unique geography, its captivating animal and plant life, its history of human exploration and scientific research. Discover what it's like to live in an Antarctic station and how to survive on the ice. Read interviews with people who have worked in Antarctica as chefs, electricians, ice pilots, scientists and more.

Abstract: When Kyle gets a job for the Antarctic summer as a marine biologist, his Spanish girlfriend Jade, e-mails daily. Jade an eco-activist is involved with an online protest group, but doesn't realise that she is being used. When a genetic modification threatens to cross over from rats to humans, the expeditioners on Kyle's ship are quarantined and he discovers that courage is more than physical bravery.

Abstract: Mumble, a young penguin living in the Antarctic, is the only penguin in his colony who is unable to sing: all other penguins attract mates by singing their 'heartsong'. But Mumble can do something that no other penguin has ever been able to do: tap dance. And with this talent, he can not only attract his soulmate but also stop the over-fishing that is endangering the penguin population.

The lack of food is referred to as 'the scarcity', and it is made clear that humans are responsible. The movie shows a number of ways humans impact animals in the Antarctic environment, including over-fishing, tagging and tracking, and pollution.

Abstract: During the winter of 1922, the Exploration Vessel Raven became trapped in the Antarctic icepack, entombing 28 men aboard it through the dark, polar night. Into White Silence tells their story - a story of a lost past, of a tragic future, of ice, ambition and madness. It captures the terrible, fascinating beauty of Antarctica, both as it was then and is today, and is a journey into the mind of every person who has ever set foot upon those ice-bound shores.

The stark, cold environment of Antarctica is used in this novel to reflect the isolation of the characters.

Abstract: Sophie Scott is only nine years old, but she's going to Antarctica on an icebreaker with her dad, the ship's captain. During the voyage to Mawson Station and back, Sophie keeps a diary. She sees icebergs, penguins, seals and whales. She makes new friends, experiences the southern lights and even becomes stranded in a blizzard!

This picture book includes maps, histories of Antarctic explorers, and scientific information about ice breakers, animals found in the Antarctic and icebergs. There are illustrations and photographs throughout.

The author travelled to Antarctica as an Antarctic Arts Fellow in 2005.

Abstract: A young boy leaves his people in Antarctica and travels the sea to discover the outside world - an adventure story interwoven with Nordic legend.

This text has themes of environment conservation, and tackles whaling.

Abstract: Debbie has two special secrets, and she definitely doesn't want to share them with her brother Billy. When her grandfather comes to visit though, Debbie knows she can trust him with her treasures. And Grandpa has another secret, just for her. It's his special place and Sally is charged with taking care of it, too.

This book has themes of environmental protection, as Debbie learns about protecting Australia flora, wildflowers and the seasons from her grandfather.

Abstract: Bush Song celebrates the gradual return of the rich web of life to one corner of abused bushland.

Abstract: Bushwalk takes the reader on a journey through the Australian bush. The reader discovers native Australian flora and fauna along the way.

Abstract: Children discover the Wolli Creek Valley south west of Sydney, New South Wales.

Abstract: Rich and beautiful, Gary Crew's text is redolent with the sounds and colours of the Australian bush. This picture book for older children is an ode and an obituary to the indigenous landscape, much of which was destroyed by white colonists. Ignorance and selfishness can destroy the things we love and value most - the child whose parents don't value his differences, the beauty of wild nature - and this story offers the reader a metaphor for the greater destruction of the environment through thoughtless acts.

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.

Abstract: When Rose and Gran save a baby koala from a pack of blood-hungry dogs, they call him Smooch, because he loves to cuddle. With the help of wildlife carer, Carol, Rose and her dog Lizzie look after Smooch until he is old enough to make the trees on their strawberry farm his home. Rose is deliciously happy - living on the farm and looking after bush babies is her dreams come true! But things change for the worse when Gran gets a disturbing letter from the bank. Does this mean they have to sell? Then one terrible day, Uncle Malcolm mentions bulldozers and Rose realises it’s not just her home that’s at stake. She has to do something, and fast! Rose has a voice and wants to make a difference but what can one girl and her koala do?

Abstract: A bush fire, and its aftermath, links a Bush-Stone curlew and three teenagers experiencing loss, love and change.

Abstract: 'Deep in the heart of every forest there is a place which is greener and quieter than anywhere else. In this rainforest, that place is called FernGully.

FernGully is a magical place, the home of rainforest fairies, elves and animals. But one morning, Crysta, a young fairy, finds that things have changed; the frogs are croaking that Hexxus, the forest's ancient enemy, is changing the weather.

Soon Crysta finds out that there are humans at Mount Warning, and that they have released Hexxus from his long imprisonment in a tree at the foot of the mountain. This means that FernGully is facing destruction!

Crysta, her elf friend, Pips, Batty Koda, a brain-fried bat, and Zak, a boy she finds in the forest and brings to FernGully, join forces with Magi Lune, the keeper of the Old Powers, to save FernGully.

See also the film adaptation: FernGully : The Last Rainforest.

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: Rod, the teenage son of an Australian archaeologist, is on an expedition with his father, searching for prehistoric cave paintings in the Kimberley Ranges.

The Hidden Realm is a young adult fantasy which includes themes of environmental conservation and rainforests.

Abstract: One night Adam Sprakel is lost in the Jerribong Wood where the mysterious monster, the Jerribong, is supposed to live. He escapes the night without trouble by sleeping high up in the tall trees, and is rescued next morning. But strange things begin to happen to Adam. What's causing his strange dreams and bizarre behaviour? Soon, he unravels the 60 year mystery of the Jerribong monster. Along the way, he saves the precious trees of Jerribong Wood and becomes a football legend!

Abstract: Leaves, twigs, branches and bark collect on the ground in forests all over the world. We call this leaf litter, but it isn't really rubbish at all. If you look closely you will discover a world of animals and plants living side by side, a busy secret world we hardly ever see.

Massey notes that the close attention to detail in this text and the seek and find strategies help to develop a reading position of an ecologist (2014, p.32).

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: Paddy O'Melon is the endearing story of a young rainforest kangaroo. Separated from his mother as a young joey, Paddy is found and raised by an Irish family who live in the rainforest and often help orphaned or injured animals. But while Paddy loves his new human family, he's curious to find out what he really is. So, he sets out on a journey into the rainforest where he meets a range of other interesting animals, from musky rat-kangaroos to green tree frogs, from ringtail possums to flying-foxes. But all he really wants is to be reunited with his mother and his own kind. Perhaps the cassowary can tell this little red-legged pademelon who he really is and take him safely home? 

Abstract: Jack in England writes to his Australian penpal Nicole, who describes the ancient tropical rainforest near her home in Millaa Millaa, Queensland. Includes factual information about Australian, and the importance of rainforest protection.

Abstract: Written as a protest against a proposed $1.2 billion bauxsite mine near the Steve Irwin Wildlife Reserve at the Cape York Peninsula, this chidren’s book has eighteen vibrant illustrations of the rainforest and its animals. A gentle, wise and old tree encourages a Sugar Glider to look for a new home before the mining comes. Scared and alone, the Sugar Glider starts looking for a new home, despite the fact it is daytime. The tree helps other animals too: A Rhinoceros Beetle climbs its branches and is blown away, far away from the mine site. A Cassowary, a flightless bird that is native to the tropical rainforests of North Eastern Australia, is also featured as a loyal friend to the tree. The tree rustled its leaves thoughtfully. “Once, a long time ago when I was much smaller, another mine threatened us. Some caring humans chained themselves to my mother tree and they saved the forest. Perhaps they will help us again.”

Abstract: The story tells of growing up in the North Queensland rainforest as a loved grandchild.

Abstract: Stanley, a witchetty grub living in the rainforest, has made his log so clean and comfortable that other creatures want to live in it instead of him.

Abstract: Amelia Ellicott lives with her cat Mustafah, next door to a block of flats, She is proud of her garden and her chickens, but she has no one to share them with...Until one day a storm destroys it all and Amelia discovers the value of friendship.

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: Trapped in the barren landscape of the city, Mrs Paddy dreams of the garden of the world, so she and Jack embark on a journey of discovery to find it. Their dream becomes reality, as they work to bring together the elusive elements of the Garden of the World, in a wondrous garden in their own backyard. Tricia Oktober’s love of nature and gardens is reflected in her illustrations where every detail is lovingly and accurately drawn.

Abstract: This is the story of Isabella's garden. And what happens when a small seed is planted...

Isabella's garden tells the story (in rhyme) about seasons, flowers, plants, animals and people and how they enjoy and help the garden to grow.

Abstract: The back garden provides a home for dragonflies, worms, shield bugs, ladybirds, frogs, beetles, earwigs, butterflies, spiders, and many other mini-beasts.

Abstract: Jesse and Lewis want to grow their own fruit and veggies, just like people do on a farm. They're going to dig and build, plant and grow, and when they're finished they're going to have a feast!

Abstract: This famous tale is loved by all flowers; It's told and retold around flowerbeds for hours; The star of the show is young Sunflower Sam; (More sunflower boy, than sunflower man). He leads his brave bunch in a fight for survival. Mad jack McCann is his bitter arch-rival; Read on for the greatest of all flower missions; And share in the richest of flora traditions. 

Flowers in a backyard garden are heavily impacted by drought, and neglected when a human chooses to clean his driveway with water from his hose instead of watering the garden. In the end, the flowers and the neighbours garden occupants help the 'thirsty flowers'.

Abstract: Uno builds a home and garden in the magnificent forest among the playful puddlebuts and feathered frinklepods, but as the place becomes more and more popular, it is overtaken by tourists and buildings until the forest and animals seem to disappear altogether.

Abstract: Butterfly Island is a small holiday resort - one of the tropical islands of the Great Barrier Reef which fringe the coast of North Queensland. It is owned by Charlie Wilson, who loves the Australian Reef and is determined to preserve its unspoilt beauty. Yet Butterfly is no longer a success - each season the bookings drop and there's no money for improvements. Sally, the eldest of his children, wants to change Butterfly to attract teenagers like herself, but Charlie utterly forbids her schemes.

Soon, however, family conflicts are pushed aside as the Wilsons face a different crisis: their launch, with twelve-year-old Jackie aboard, disappears. When the thief is discovered and brought back to the island, further disasters strike. Yet the thief is Vo Diem, a Vietnamese refugee who is only a teenager himself. In fact, he is innocent of all the other problems which confront the Wilsons. Someone is prepared to go to any lengths to drive them away from Butterfly Island. Ultimately it needs the courage and resource of Vo Diem to save Jackie's life - and the island. 

Island: Fictional, setting - Great Barrier Reef

Abstract: This is the true story of David and his father, who came to Stephens Island - a remote and pristine island off Cook Strait between the North and South Islands of New Zealand in 1894. There they built a lighthouse to protect ships entering the strait. Oblivious of the potential damage to the environment, they chopped down the trees and ferns where the local birds sheltered, thereby demolishing their habitat. But worse than that, they brought their pregnant cat with them. The tiny Stephens Island wrens, being flightless, had no natural defences against the predators and were wiped out in less than two years. The event is cited as the only instance where one species has been directly responsible for the extinction of another. Of course, once they realised what had happened, conservation authorities began the official eradication of the cats, but by then the damage had been done. The strikingly beautiful illustrations reinforce the tragedy of the obliteration of this tiny Eden, a timely metaphor for that other paradise known as Earth.

Island: Stephens Island

Abstract: On a tiny island lives a waddle of Little Penguins. But their numbers are dwindling. Swampy Marsh knows what to do, but no one will listen. Soon he can count the last few penguins on the fingers of one hand. The desperate townsfolk give Swampy, and his friends Max and Oddball, one chance. Will his ‘Oddball’ solution work? Will Swampy save the Little Penguins of Middle Island? A warmly funny account of one man’s quest to save a penguin colony, with two very unusual helpers.

Island: Middle Island, Victoria

Abstract: The Irwin clan are taking time out to holiday with friends on Lady Elliot Island just off the Queensland coast. As a regular guest of the island, Bindi can't wait to show her friends around! And with the turtle nesting season in full swing, there is plenty to do and see. But when Bindi joins her friends on their first scuba dive, she spots a young turtle in trouble. Will they be able to save it in time? Bindi also learns a lot about sustainability on an island which focuses on reducing its carbon footprint through efficient energy use and waste management.

Island: Lady Elliott Island, Queensland

Abstract: Fourteen-year-old Riko manages to get her delicate older sister Sif and herself to their remote Pacific island home, where an American scientist who falls in love with Sif and discovers her connection with an underwater race creates complications in Riko's life.

Island: Fictional, setting - Pacific Ocean

Abstract: Every year Matthew goes with the other families of Cape Barren and kills muttonbirds for money. An encounter with a conservationist who has been banding the birds for years causes Matthew to question this practice.

Island: Cape Barren Island, Bass Strait

Abstract: Macquarie Island lies in the Southern Ocean, between Antarctica and New Zealand. A speck of green in the vast, windswept sea, it is a haven for many creatures that live above and below the waves. In One Small Island, Alison Lester and Coral Tulloch bring us the story of this remote and precious World Heritage Site. Together they explore the island's unique geological beginnings, discovery and degradation at the hands of humans, and the battle to restore it today. This beautifully presented book leaves us with an important question: can Macquarie Island and places like it be saved?

Island: Macquarie Island, Southern Ocean

Abstract: Phasmid is the amazing true story of the Lord Howe Island Phasmid, or Stick Insect. Believed to be extinct for nearly 80 years, the phasmids were rediscovered on Balls Pyramid, a volcanic outcrop 23 kilometres off the coast of Lord Howe Island, Australia. News of their unbelievable survival made headlines around the world and prompted an extraordinary conservation effort to save this remarkable invertebrate. This wonderful tale captures the life of one of the world's most critically endangered invertebrates, from beginning life as an egg to surviving harsh environments and the hopeful return to their homeland, Lord Howe Island. Phasmid is a positive story about one species' incredible survival in a time of worldwide species decline. 

Island: Lord Howe Island, Tasman Sea

Abstract: Tanglewood lives on an island far away, visited only by the wind. One day a bird shelters from the storm among its branches and a precious bond is formed. But Seagull belongs to the sky and, too soon, must leave. Will she ever return?

Island: Fictional

Abstract: Teaote and the Wall is a book about hope, determination and the people that need a global solution. Our future leaders are your children. This book is all about spreading awareness of the of Kiribati without using big words like climate change or environmental awareness.

Unlike twenty years ago, walls now surround all ocean-facing houses in Kiribati, in hope they stop the water flooding into their homes. However, the ocean inundates the land ferociously, attacking the walls repeatedly. With climate change still being debated around the world and many major countries not committing to significant changes in their global emissions, Marita feels the need to share the stories of Kiribati in hopes it can strengthen the country's voice. Time is of the essence for Kiribati and the future leaders of the world need to know about Kiribati.

See the website www.thelittleislandthatcould.com for more information.

Abstract: Australia's Christmas Island is home to hundreds of species of birds, native plants and wildlife, many of which are not found anywhere else in the world. In this version of the much-loved Christmas carol, The Twelve Days of Christmas, we count down to Christmas and celebrate the unique birds that live on this wild and remote island.

Island: Christmas Island, Indian Ocean

Abstract: In 2012, the Creative Catchment Kids program delivered the "Biodiversity of the Murray Catchment" Enviro-Stories Education Program. The project was initiated by the Murray Darling Association and Burrumbuttock Public School. It was generously funded by the Murray and Murrumbidgee Catchment Management Authorities, the Murray-Darling Basin Authority and Teys Australia, Wagga. Additional support came from the Wirraminna and Riverina Environmental Education Centres.

Abstract: The dry salt bed of Kati Thanda-Lake Eyre shimmers in the desert heat. But far up north, the rains have come. Water is flooding into empty riverbeds and swirling down towards the lake. Soon everything will change.

Abstract: 'Ever since moonlight shone down on him in his pond, Frog has wanted to live up with the Moon and the stars. He works hard to get there, but although he tries and tries, its a long way for a little frog... '

Teacher's notes available here.

First line: A trickle

Themes: human destruction of the Murray River, pollution, introduced species, despair

Abstract: Murray River Country discusses the water crisis from a unique perspective – the intimate stories of love and loss from the viewpoints of Aboriginal peoples who know the inland rivers as their traditional country. By engaging with the Murray-Darling Basin, Australia's agricultural heartland, Murray River Country goes to the core of our national understandings of who we are and how we can live in this country.'

'These experiences bring a fresh narrative to contemporary water debates about the Murray-Darling Basin, and how we should look to more sustainable ways to live in Australia as our approach to water is changing in the face of water scarcity, drought, climate change, and water mismanagement.'

'Weir wants to move readers beyond questions of how much water will be 'returned' to the rivers, to understand that our economy, and our lives, are dependent on river health. She uses different knowledge traditions to reveal unacknowledged assumptions that trap our thinking and disable us from acting. By engaging with the Murray-Darling Basin, Australia's agricultural heartland, Murray River Country goes to the core of our national understandings of who we are and how we can live in this country.'

For Older Readers. Teacher's Notes from AIATSIS are available here.

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: A grandfather and his young grandson embark on an adventure of exploration and discovery of the lower reaches of the Murray River. River Boy focuses on the current circumstance of environmental decline surrounding the Murray River and along their adventure explores the changes the grandfather has seen in the river since he was a young boy.

Abstract: The river begins, no bigger than your hand, high in the mountains and on through fields, into the city... Finally at the edge of the land it ends. Follow the twists and turns of a river's story, from its source to the sea.

This story is about the journey of the river and a celebration of watercourses. There are some references to water pollution after the rivers has traversed the city.

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.

Shortlisted for an Environment Award for Children's Literature by The Wildlife Society in 2015, picture book category.

Abstract: One morning on the banks of the River Murray, a pair of Regent Parrots emerge from their nest - a hollow high up in a River Red Gum tree. Looking around they notice that their tree, and other nearby River Red Gums look sick. They set out to visit their friends, and to find out what is wrong. Do Frog, Yabbie, Possum, Catfish, Python & Owl have the answer?

A book about the Murray River and its dying ecosystem. The story focuses on the thirsty river red gums, endangered species and the still, declining waters of the Murray River.

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: Seahorses live in shallow water along the coasts of countries right around the world except where the sea becomes too cold. The male seahorse is a wonderful "mother". He keeps the eggs and babies safe in a pouch on his body. Hundreds of babies are born. They are then in danger and few of them live long enough to have babies of their own.

This narrative non-fiction picture book is part of Pauline Reilly's excellent series published by Bristlebird Books. The work contains factual information at the back of the book. The information is acknowledged to come from published scientific authors and the Marine Discovery Centre at Queenscliff, Victoria.

Abstract: Join the little robot with the big heart as she ignites the passion of kids everywhere! In Lyka's second adventure, Lyka crosses the galaxy and crash lands straight into the Great Barrier Reef! Her love for Earth is quickly replaced by terror when a tiny stowaway from Planet Ahmee dives into the reef and starts to multiply, leaving a white trail of dying coral in its wake. Lyka needs to save the reef – and fast. But she doesn't know anything about Earth and she needs your help!

Abstract: In the warm tropical waters off the north Australian coast, a very special whale is born: Migaloo, the first all-white humpback whale in the world. As he and his pod make their annual migration to Antarctica, Migaloo discovers the beauty, wonder and danger of a whale's journey.

Migaloo examines a whale's migration pattern, and the dangers, both human and animal, encountered along the way. The beginning of the story illustrates the negligence of humans in preventing the whales from getting adequate rest, and the negative impact of tourism on wildlife. 

Abstract: Try to guess the identity of a mysterious creature with a most unusual birth! Graceful verses and stunning illustrations convey the wonder and beauty of the oceanic world.

Text is told in rhyme.

de Roche Annie Fox Graham Hartley Peter Hepworth Peter A. Kinloch Helen MacWhirter Maureen McCarthy Alison Nisselle David Phillips Carole Wilkinson Linden Wilkinson Jenny Sharp Lois BootonJudith Colquhoun Kate Henderson Michael Joshua Neil Luxmoore1994-1998 series - publisher film/TV

Abstract: Ocean Girl follows the adventures of Jason and Brett Bates, who move with their mother (a reasearch scientist studying whale song) to an underwater research station near Port Douglas. There, they accidentally meet Neri, a young girl with super-human strength, the ability to breathe underwater, and an affinity for communicating with whales. As the series progresses through four seasons, the Bateses (and the audience) learn more about Neri's arrival on Earth, her home planet, and the ecosystem of their own home planet.

Abstract: Counting down from twelve to zero, the reader learns about some of the fish found on the Great Barrier Reef and the threats to their continued existence.

Abstract: Nestling between rocks...

Hiding in the seaweed...

Lift the flap and discover many rock pool secrets!

Abstract: The sea is a dangerous place, especially for a baby seadragon left far behind and all alone. Will he ever catch up with his brothers and sisters, or find the beautiful seagrass meadow that is his home? (Source: back cover)

This beautifully illustrated book details the early days of a baby seadragon's life as he finds his new home. There is little evidence of human impact on the ocean, and it shows only natural environments and dangers.

Abstract: A rhyming tale of fishy underwater gang warfare, pollution from toxic waste, and true love.

Abstract: When Claire is stranded on the boat after her father is thrown overboard in a storm, she spends days and nights alone, her only solace being the whales that seem strangely to accompany and protect her, their warm underwater world that beckons and soothes. But where are they going? And why is caught up in their journey? As she drifts in and out of consciousness, Claire feels that something awaits her, some special purpose...

Abstract: While at the beach, William the Wild invents his own imaginary game. The beach becomes a place of amazing adventure. See what William imagines in this beautifully illustrated picture book, bursting with sea birds, colourful fish and interesting marine life. 

This picture book illustrates the diverse marine life found in rock pools, and also the greater ocean as imagined through the main character, William.

Abstract: A lyrical narrative evocative of the Australian Outback. The story features an endangered animal, a feral cat and an Indigenous boy. The story is designed to engage, entertain and inform young children about environmental issues. Superb illustrations capture the colours and textures of the Outback.

Abstract: From under a rock slowly slithers a bandy bandy. It rests in the sun, letting the early morning rays warm its cold blood. And so begins another day in the desert. Despite its harshness, the desert is an extraordinary place which teems with life. Lizards, snakes, birds and insects, kangaroos, kowaris and other small mammals, even frogs and shrimps, can all be found in the desert.

A narrative non-fiction picture book about desert ecology and the diverse life found within the desert. Biodiversity is a strong theme.

Abstract: Mrs White was in the higgledy-piggledy garden. Suddenly billowing over the hill came a big red sand storm.

Mrs White, the children's teacher, visits their home to find out why the children's homework is always covered in red dust. This book celebrates the desert landscape and it's diversity. It illustrates the beauty of the red dessert, and also the trials of living in such an environment.

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: 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: This is a children's educational picture book that looks at the history of an outback waterhole in the Australian desert. The book looks at how the waterhole developed over the years and the abundant wildlife that is attracted to it.

This book tracks the waterhole as it develops, is inhabited temporarily by Aboriginal people, settled by white people and farmed with cattle. An environmentalist then looks at the waterhole and proceeds to convince the farmer to regenerate the waterhole. It details how this is done, and emphasises the importance of conservation. The narrative also conveys the knowledge and wisdom of Aboriginal people taking only what they needed from land, and moving on without destroying the waterhole habitat.

Abstract: An anthology of short stories and drawings from children of the Sacred Heart School, theThursday island Primary School, and the Horn Island School.

Abstract: From the Torres Strait comes this moving story about Dabu, a shy baby dugong, and his family, the great dugong herd, as they face the dangers of sea life and the traditional hunters that roam their feeding grounds.

This book is dual language in both English and Kalaw Lagaw Ya (Torres Strait).

Abstract: Set in the tropical waters of the Torres Strait, Dabu Grows Up tells what happens to Dabu, a young dugong, after his mother is taken by hunters. Dabu learns about life, respect of the natural world, loneliness and friendship as he explores a tropical reef, finally deciding that to survive he must return to his herd.

Abstract: This book is based on findings from the PhD research conducted by Mariana Fuentes on the impacts of climate change on the northern Great Barrier Reef green sea turtle population. The main character of the book, "Myrtle", is based on a real turtle that was satellite-tagged in 2008 at Mer Island, Torres Strait. Myrtle was named by students from the local Tagai State College.