I will stay with them, NO MATTER WHAT!
Karana builds his next and does his special dance to attract a lady emu. One lovely lady with very long legs sits on his next and lays 16 eggs, which Karana then cares for and protects until they hatch.
Once the chicks arrive, Karana looks after them as they grow bigger and stronger, teaching them where to find food and how to survive until one day, they are big enough to leave his care.
Children familiar with the images of mother hens and other animal mothers caring for their young will enjoy this simple tale of a father emu caring for his eggs and chicks. The playful illustrations by Sandi Harrold portray a wonderful sense of personality for Karana and his chicks.
The story by Brisbane and Wakka Wakka elder Uncle Joe Kirk (with Greer Casey and Sandi Harrold) shares the story of father emu, who symbolises the nurturing father who cares for his family. Karana also incorporates the message of ‘becoming’ as the chicks grow and learn through the teaching and guidance of their elders.
With so many books focusing on the connection between mothers and their children, Karana: The Story of the Father Emu is a simply told story suitable for young children that is ideal for fathers to read with their children to celebrate that special bond between dads and their kids.
Title: Karana: The Story of Father Emu
Author: Uncle Joe Kirk, with Greer Casey and Sandi Harrold
Illustrator: Sandi Harrold
Publisher: Scholastic, $15.99 RRP
Publication Date: 1 May 2014
Format: Softcover
ISBN: 9781743623138
For ages: 3 - 7
Type: Picture Book
