'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Friday, 6 October 2023

Review: A Christmas Present for Roo

From the creators of The Great Aussie Egg-And-Spoon Race comes A Christmas Present for Roo. 

Stunning covers give way to gorgeous star-filled end pages that make the entrance divine. A name plate exists for a personal gifting message. 

Kookaburra peeks from a branch in the corner opposite the title page. Australian bush babies enter the scene. 

Full-page illustrations show Wombat, Bandicoot and Kangaroo preparing their presents for Christmas.

They look for Echidna. 

The puggle is sleeping but not for long, for Kookaburra gives a great shout.

Echidna hasn’t got a present for Roo yet. There’s not much time! She collects lots of things from nature, but none seem right for her friend.

She decides to make herself a crown of wildflowers. It inspires her to make Roo’s present herself.

Collecting lots of coloured flowers, Echidna joins the stems together. It isn’t right, so she must start again. Night is falling and time is running out.

Can Echidna make her friend Roo’s gift in time to put beneath the tree?

It is a labour of love. What will Roo think of Echidna’s present?

A warm, delicate story of friendship and the importance of what goes into a gift. Often, we think things aren’t good enough, yet, they turn out to be just right!

Full of Australian flavours – fauna, animals, trees, and the spirit of giving at Christmas.

Ideal for overseas visitors, particularly children, to familiarise themselves with Australia’s natural surroundings and wildlife.

Title:  A Christmas Present for Roo
Author: Sophie Sayle
Illustrator: Daron Parton
Publisher: Hachette, $19.99
Publication Date: 30 August 2023
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9780734422248
For ages: 3+
Type: Picture Book