When a child can't be running around outside, exploring and climbing and getting covered in mud and dirt - it's fun for them to read about it.
The (unseen) child in the story loves being outside, but thinks he/she will only see green and brown trees and plants.
Never fear - there is plenty more to be seen. Splashes of colour, kangaroos and echidnas and butterflies and even more animals, insects and birds. The bush is amazing - all you have to do is look around.
The premise of this picture book is wonderful - heading out for a bushwalk and opening your eyes to what's around you. The simplicity of the main text is complemented by more detailed subtext, with little facts about animals and plants. The artwork is the highlight of the book - colours aplenty, action and movement and really unique interpretations of the Australian bush.
It's not carried off perfectly, though. It would be lovely to have seen the text and little facts placed more creatively to match the pictures. Instead, the white text is placed atop various parts of the images, making them look a little out of place and at times hard to read.
Overall, a gorgeous book that will have children intrigued - and ready to head outside again!
Title: The Bushwalk
Author/Illustrator: Sandra Kendell
Publisher: Windy Hollow Books, $24.95 RRP
Publication Date: April 2011
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781921136719
For ages: 4+
Type: Picture book
