Review: The Rescue Ark

The animals went in two by two the Noah’s Ark, that’s for sure, but in this delightful Aussie version, it’s not elephants and giraffes and camels that plod up the gang plank—it’s endangered or vulnerable Antipodean animals like the Australian Sea Lion, Western Ringtail Possum, Pygmy Bluetongue Lizard, Tasmanian Devil, Numbat and Native Bee. And it’s no great flood they’re escaping from, either—it’s instead their very own environment, and the appalling loss of habitat contributing to each species’ demise.

Told in rhyming text, each stanza in the book is opposed by a full illustration featuring the animals in question. Children can explore these images as they sing along to the classic tune, and learn all about typical Aussie animals beyond the roo and the sulphur crested cockatoo. At the back of the book, parents, teachers and older kids will appreciate some fascinating information on the featured animals and why they are endangered. Paintings from the NLA’s extensive digital collection are also featured, with a glossary of artists.

All children’s books are road-tested by the NLA, with preschool children. It’s no surprise the children responded so well to this Aussie animal introduction, most especially with animals they’re not necessarily over familiar with. Ecological themes make this book ideal for classroom work.

Title: The Rescue Ark
Author: Susan Hall
Illustrator: Naomi Zouwer
Publisher: National Library Publishing, $18.99 RRP
Publication Date: 1 September 2014
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9780642278104
For ages: 3 – 7
Type: Picture Book