Just So Stories

Anyone familiar with Corey Tutt’s work, both with the Deadly Science program and his previous books [and if you’re not – why not??? Inconceivable!] will not be one bit surprised to learn that this book is every bit as deadly as its title. I am only sorry that The Kid is now the too-cool-for-school-adult, and no longer the miniature zoo keeper with a passion for all things reptilian in particular. That being said, she’s already had a good meander through the pages of this utterly fabulous book.

From the stunning end papers plastered with all things scaly and slithery to each dynamic spread featuring another species, this is a complete package that is a valuable source of information, as well as being thrillingly entertaining. I predict your jarjums will lose their minds poring over the details. Just check out those sample pages in the slide show.

What do I love? I love that the book opens with the AIATSIS map of Indigenous Australia [yes, we know it needs a little tweaking but it’s a hard thing to represent with true accuracy]. I love that readers are given a general overview of each type of reptile. I love that each species is given its name in language or languages (named) and the Country where it can be found. I love that information follows the same format for each with sub-headings like What does it look like? and How does it breed? I love that its conservation status and its potential risk to humans i.e. venomous/non-venomous is given.

I love Ben Williams’ stunning artwork [and I do mean stunning!]. I love that there are suggestions for a ‘call to action’ where kiddos can find out how to help if animals are in danger. I love that Corey interweaves his own experiences with animals, his family, being on Country and how he learned about them where it fits neatly.

It has a glossary which is always helpful and some pronunciation guides. I can just hear purists saying ‘it doesn’t have an index’ but really how would you arrange an index, if not in English – which kind of defeats the purpose of the entire book IMO. So forget that and let the kiddos just enjoy the book and learn from their browsing through it.

It’s a beautiful package all round and don’t you think it’s about time your readers learned the original names for our critters? I’m saying it’s a must for any collection and, in particular, if you have kiddos like The Kid, (who just lived and breathed animals until she hit mid-teens – maybe her cultural DNA ❤️💛🖤?) give them a treat and order it now.

I’m giving it a deadly 5 💚🐍🦎🐢🐊rating.