Itchity, scratchity, grumble and groan.
A shudder and shake, a snort and a moan.
A grunt and a huff, and a spitterly splut.
He said:
'I really need to scratch my butt.'"
Wombat has an itch that he just can't reach. Never mind, he thinks, I'll just scratch it on my favourite tree... only to find his scratching tree has been chopped down. Gone.
As has the saltbush, the log, the old mallee stump, the limestone boulder, and worse. His home.
Will this hairy-nosed wombat find a new home - and a place to scratch?
This is a cute story with nature-toned illustrations and a good rhythm, but it's more than that. It's an insight into how people destroy the homes and environments of the animals around us - an important lesson that is so well learnt through the power of books and beloved characters.
Part of the proceeds from the sale of Hairy Nose Itchy Butt is donated to wombat conservation. What a wonderful cause.
Title: Hairy Nose Itchy Butt
Author: Elizabeth Frankel
Illustrator: Garry Duncan
Publisher: Jane Curry Publishing, $19.95 RRP
Publication Date: 1 April 2011
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9780980812923
For ages: Primary school
Type: Picture book
