Kangaroos Hop is a simple, cumulative tale of animals and the way they move. First the reader meets the kangaroo and his movement: he hops. Gradually other animals join the journey, all moving in their own special way until finally they reach their destination. And yes, there’s a surprise. Illustrations are stylised and colourful, simple but carefully drawn as is the landscape they travel.
Kangaroos Hop is a companion title to ‘Ten Scared Fish’, and both are aimed at the younger set. Part of the proceeds of sales will go to indigenous preschool literacy programs. To say these titles were just for an indigenous readership would be to short-change them. They would be a fabulous addition to any home or preschool library. Each provides a springboard for discussion on many aspects of life in Australia, both rural and urban. Recommended for preschool children.
Kangaroos Hop, Ros Moriarty ill Balarinji
Allen & Unwin 2012
ISBN: 9781742379159
review by Claire Saxby, Children’s Author