Summary
Koala Lou, the first-born of her family, has heard her mother tell her "Koala Lou, I DO love you," since she was born. However, as the family has grown and her mother become more and more busy, Koala Lou doesn't hear it anymore. In order to impress her mother and hear her favorite line again, Koala Lou hatches a scheme to win the upcoming Bush Olympics.
Critical Analysis
This story is a fun, sweet read that will have children in any country hugging their mommies. It is a simply written story with a nice plot. The illustrations are done in colored pencils and show native Australian animals in expressive poses that make the story come alive.
The animals and setting do a good job of reminding the reading the creatures are Australian. The Bush Olympics, gum trees, emus, kookaburras, etc. all help familiarize children with the animals.
Reviews
School Library Journal: "Koala Lou is appealing and truly believable...Fox brings out the best in her characters, and also conveys an important message about competition."
Kirkus Reviews: "This satisfying reworking of a familiar and ever-important theme is appealingly illustrated - bring colors , soft-edged sculptural forms, precise detail, dozens of expressive animals. Another winning import from tone of Australia's favorite authors."
The Horn Book Magazine: "A first-rate choice for bedtime, story hour, or reading aloud."
Publisher's Weekly: "A perfect example of why the Australian writer has become one of today's top authors of children's books.
Connections
Check out Mem Fox's web page. There are lots of cool things to do here...including here her read a book outloud! http://www.memfox.com/welcome.html
Learn more about Australian animals!
Bancroft, Bronwyn. An Australian abc of animals. ISBN 978-1-877003-97-4
Mason Crest Publishers. Australian rainforest animals. ISBN 978-1-59084-213-3
Wexo, John Bonnett. Koalas and other Australian animals. ISBN 978-1-888153-56-9
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