Review: Ziggy's Zoo

Discover the wonders that are hidden in Ziggy’s garden, from snails and caterpillars to teddy bears and even her parents. 

There is no escaping her imagination or passion for creating her own nature exhibits for her zoo.

Using household items, Ziggy sets about her garden to discover what nature has been hiding all this time. Her goal is to create 10 exhibits, all different just like in a real zoo. 

Gathering up her tools - boxes, jars, nets, Ziggy starts to explore. Creatures she had not noticed before standout as possible exhibits. Ziggy also builds a tiny cubby house from sticks for one of the exhibits and a giant pen to house a feature exhibit.

Australian author, Pat Simmons (ex-reviewer for KBR) has created a book that highlights children’s curiosity, their love of nature and their playful attitude.  These elements are reflected in the story itself, each page has a hidden green beetle and a number for children to discover and the use of rhymes creates a rhythm and pace that moves the story along.

The elaborately lush illustrations by Vicky Pratt makes the reader feel they are in the garden with Ziggy collecting her exhibits for the zoo. The detailed illustrations, her use of vibrant colours to convey happiness, curiosity and different settings within the garden give the story depth.

One thing is for sure, the nature of this story will engage readers on all levels from children to adults and has earnt its place on the bookshelf.

Title: Ziggy’s Zoo

Author: Pat Simmons

Illustrator: Vicky Pratt

Publisher: Little Pink Dog Books, $24.95
Publication Date: 1 April 2018

Format: Hardback
ISBN:  9780994626905
For ages: 2 - 6
Type: Picture Book