Emu
Written by Claire Saxby
Illustrated by Graham Byrne
Is that emu startled by you or are you startled by the emu? Either way, the cover of this wonderful new book is definitely an invitation to explore. The fantastic illustrations continue throughout the text, giving a real feel for the forests and grasslands and for the curiosity of the large bird. He is so devoted to the eggs he often loses a great deal of weight, refusing to leave the nest. He must guard the eggs from lizards called goannas. The chicks hatch after eight weeks and are partially protected by camouflaged markings. The father shows the chicks how to hunt for food, keeps them safe, and keeps them warm at night. Dingos might take the chicks. Adult emus could run away and kick predators. Emus move in a zigzag pattern to confuse eagles and other predators.
This heartwarming story of parental concern will make kids love the large birds and cheer for their survival. They will see that, despite the differences, denizens of Australia are not so different from animals everywhere. This would be great as a read aloud to discuss the emu’s life or as independent reading for literacy and further study.
Title: Emu- Author: Claire Saxby
- Illustrator: Graham Byrne
- Published: Candelwick Press, 2015
- Reviewer: Sue Poduska
- Format: Hardcover, 32 pages
- Grade Level: K to 3
- Genre: Nonfiction, nature, science, Australia
- ISBN: 978-0-7636-7479-3
- Extras: About emus, index
