A Journey Down Under Book Review
Author:R.W. Starr
Illustrator:Marta Maszkiewicz
Publisher:R.W. Starr Publishing
Released:May 22, 2023
Format:Kindle, Paperback
ISBN:978-8218955205
Reviewer:Ellwyn Autumn
Rating: 4Lemon Drops
Acharming non-fiction book for young readers that includes catchy rhymes, warmwatercolor illustrations, and loads of interesting facts!
Ireceived a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery. I voluntarilychose to read and post an honest review.
Review:BookSummary:
A JourneyDown Under is awonderful non-fiction resource for young children and their parents andeducators. For those of us who are not Australian, the book is a terrific introductionto Australia and its unique and diverse animal population.
Opinion:I like that thebook shows a map of Australia inlaid with native type images that are verypretty and easy to discern. It left me wondering, “Is this Indigenous art orjust the illustrator’s creative expression?” Other curious minds may also wantto delve into this and explore it further.
Because of its educational nature, thestory is appropriate for both home and classroom libraries in various ways.
As a bedtimestory, it will introduce children and parents to the many varied animals thatinhabit Australia. The author introduced each animal with a catchy rhyme,followed by an interesting, fun fact that is very informative.
Photo by OpenClipart-Vectors from Pixabay In theclassroom, teachers can use the book to introduce students to the continent ofAustralia, along with its unique and diverse animal population. The author alsoreferences the Aboriginal people of Australia, which is another important topiceducators can include in their lesson plans.
Anotherfeature of the book I enjoyed is the resource page at the end. The authorprovides links and references readers can check out to learn even more aboutthe animals discussed in the book. There is even mention of a YouTube channelwhere you can listen to a lyrebird and a kookaburra.
Marta Maszkiewicz’swatercolor illustrations are warm with earthy tones perfect for a book aboutAustralia’s wildlife. Each illustration appears accurate and is very pleasingto the eye. I appreciated the purple and pink color scheme used for thebandicoot’s page.
It’s obviousthe author cares deeply about Australia’s rich history, its animal kingdom, andhis readers.
Igave it 4 Lemon Drops!
ClassroomConnection:AgeRange: 3-6 years old
TargetedVocabulary: distinguishing, features, Eucalyptus, snooze, permanent, marsupial,curious, secure, perched, consistent, ventures, majestic, pant, accuracy,mimics, absorb, roosting, echolocation, prehistoric, waddles
LessonIdeas & Resources:
Aresearch project on the continent of Australia, one of its many animals, or theaboriginal people who live there.
Australia| TPT (teacherspayteachers.com)
Literacy:AustraliaBooklet (A Country Study!) by Emily Bynum | TPT (teacherspayteachers.com)
Art:28Australia Activities for Kids - Taming Little Monsters
24Amazing Australia Day Crafts for Kids - Happy Toddler Playtime
Music/Movement:Movelike the animals that live in Australia. Hop like a kangaroo, swim like aplatypus, climb like a Tasmanian devil, dig like a wombat, squawk like a kookaburra,run like an emu.
GorgeousAnimal Movement Dice for Kids - Mother Natured
(2)songs about australia for kids - YouTube
Australia Song | Song forKids | Countries of the World (youtube.com)
(2) Follow the Animals |Sing and Dance Along | Australian Songs for Kids | Music for Kids - YouTube
SocialStudies:Australia:An Introduction to the Art, Culture, Sights, and Food (teacherspayteachers.com)
Australia(country study) by Thematic Worksheets | TPT (teacherspayteachers.com)
"Tripto Australia" Power Point & Activities Pack! by Ashley McKenzie(teacherspayteachers.com)
Science:AustralianAnimals preschool theme activities - KIDSPARKZ
Math:AustralianAnimals Free Activity Pack - Taming Little Monsters
AustralianAnimals Graphing Printable - Life Over C's (lifeovercs.com)
AboutThe Author:
I have always had an interest in writingchildren's books, but life always seemed to get in the way. However, afterretiring from professional life, I now can pursue my passion.
I love animals and my fiancée, and I currentlyhave three dogs, two of which we recently adopted from a local shelter. I mustthank my fiancée for her gracious inspiration and support.
She is my editor, sounding board, and constantcompanion. I am a cancer survivor and appreciate the time I have been given andwant to bring some joy into the lives of children.
I remember when my mom and dad read to me whenI was little, and I shared this tradition with my own daughter when she wasgrowing up.
Books have always played an important part ofmy life. I forget who said it, but those who read can live a thousand lives,but those who don't only live one.
About the Illustrator:
You can find Marta Maszkiewicz on Instagram.
