Dingo

March 1, 2019

PreS-Gr 2-Saxby continues her picture book introductions to Australian animals by having readers follow a mother dingo on her nocturnal hunt. As in previous books Koala, Emu, and Big Red Kangaroo, the primary text on each spread is supplemented by factual information in different type so the book can be read at several levels. Dingo's story is told in short, simple sentences that encourage children to look closely at the illustrations to spot other animals Dingo encounters. Harrick's impressionistic oil paintings include striking landscapes the creatures inhabit and explore. The forest, snow, and mountains may surprise readers who associate dingoes with desert habitats. However, the author's informative paragraph after the main text notes that dingoes live across Australia "from red deserts to alpine forests." VERDICT The youngest listeners will enjoy the excitement of dingo's quest while the accompanying text offers additional information to satisfy older readers. A good choice for public and school libraries.-Kathy Piehl, Minnesota State University Library, Mankato

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