The Flying Emu, by Sally Morgan

Morgan introduces the book by reminding readers of the Aboriginal tradition of storytelling dating back thousands of years. These stories, whilst not traditional ones, are told in that tradition, drawing on Morgan’s own childhood and on suggestions made by the children in her life.

Emu was once the most colourful bird in Australia. His head feathers were brilliant blue, his huge wings were shades of pink and purple, his body was like spun gold and his big feet were bright red with lime-green claws. While some of the other birds thought Emu was a bit much, Emu loved himself.

When Emu’s pride gets a bit much for the other animals, he learns a very harsh lesson; when a lazy seagull tries to get a free feed, he is left disappointed; and when a horrible man called Fatfella gets too greedy, he gets his come-uppance. These are just three of the wonderful stories in The Flying Emu, a collection of Australian stories from award-winning author Sally Morgan.

Morgan introduces the book by reminding readers of the Aboriginal tradition of storytelling dating back thousands of years. These stories, whilst not traditional ones, are told in that tradition, drawing on Morgan’s own childhood and on suggestions made by the children in her life. With full colour illustrations accompanying each story, the book is visually pleasing and the stories themselves will delight primary aged readers.

First published in 1992, the book has been republished by Walker Books Australia.

The Flying Emu

The Flying Emu, by Sally Morgan
Walker Books, 2011
ISBN

This book can be purchased in good bookstores, or online from Fishpond. Buying through this link supports Aussiereviews.