Just So Stories

Big Sky Publishing

September 2023

ISBN: 9781922896803

RRP: $19.99

When the always gracious and warm Susanne emailed me some months ago, and asked me to write teaching notes for a new picture book she was writing, I was – quite naturally – absolutely thrilled and flattered,that she should consider me to do so. When she subsequently sent me the manuscript I was enchanted with this vibrant and joyous narrative which celebrates one of our most iconic native creatures.

Yes, I do know the cockatoos can ferociously strip a farmer’s crop and I appreciate the angst that must cause, but truly – the sheer sight and sound of them for the rest of us, is just completely happy-making IMO.

I had such great fun romping through the book, and then considering how it could be used in a classroom or library. Its obvious parallels to a bunch of kids playing and racketing in their street, and exploring how the habits of cockatoos make them so endearing and – yes,sometimes naughty- was just a hoot (or perhaps a squawk?) to think about. And, while most would presume that these birds are plentiful, the fact is that the sulphur-crested cockatoo is now listed as critically endangered, following rapid decline (80%) over the past three generations – largely because of trapping for the caged bird trade as well as destruction of habitat. Susanne’s determination to bring light to this problem as well as focusing on these amusing birds’ antics was a primary inspiration for this absolutely gloriously fun book.

Your kiddos will love it and there will be many lively discussions about the cockys, their madcap adventures and saving our environment. I can’t not refer to Nancy Bevington’s fabulous illustrations which totally capture both children and birds! Well done Susanne, and Nancy, this just a joy from the first page and hopefully will throw some spotlight on our amazing sulphur-cresteds. Highly recommended for your Smalls from Prep upwards to certainly mid-primary.