Welcome, Wombat

June 1, 2018

Gr 2-5-This nonfiction work is framed as a book of advice for a young arrival at Sleepy Burrows Wombat Sanctuary from one of the older residents. Chance, the voice of experience, explains why the sanctuary is necessary and how the wombats are slowly prepared to return to the wild and live on their own. Along the way, he shares plentiful information about wombats, their stages of development, and human impact on their habitats. Chance's audience is an infant wombat, and the wording is simple and direct, making it perfect for elementary-age readers. The book is also packed with color photos of various wombats from the sanctuary and sidebars on topics like "Burrow Basics" and "Wombat Combat." Back matter includes a letter from the author, ideas for how to help wombats, and even a quick guide on "How To Speak Aussie." After all, readers may need to know that "chucking a tanty" means throwing a tantrum. The combination of captivating photos and the humorous narration make the material very approachable and entertaining, even as it informs. VERDICT Perfect for middle grade fans of narrative or creative nonfiction, those researching marsupials, and readers interested in animal sanctuaries and rescue efforts.-Suzanne Costner, Fairview Elementary School, Maryville, TN

Copyright 2018 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

November 15, 2018
Grades 2-4 Baby wombats are pink, hairless, cute, and cuddly; but without the protection of their mother's pouch, they are vulnerable and susceptible to almost certain death. The wombats' home in the Australian Outback also faces threats, from climate change, natural predators, illegal poaching, human population growth, and increased motor traffic. Enter Donna and Phil and their Sleepy Burrows Wombat Sanctuary in Gundaroo, Australia, where they may care for up to 30 wombats at one time. Running the sanctuary is a full-time job, and this narrative text describes life at Sleepy Burrows in an unconventional way?through the voice of a wombat. Readers learn about these amazing creatures by following the story of Panzer, a tiny wombat whose mother was killed by a vehicle. Despite being told by Chance, another wombat in the sanctuary, the information is credible. The narrative describes Panzer's stages of growth as she moves toward living in the wild, and it's interspersed with photographs and informational text boxes. The author includes a glossary, bibliography, websites, information about supporting sanctuary efforts, and photo credits.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2018, American Library Association.)

January 1, 2019
Photographs by Phil Melzer, Donna Stepan, and Jacky Ling. Ostensibly welcoming a new rescue to a real wombat sanctuary in Australia, two-year-old orphaned wombat Chance "narrates" this introduction to the species and to wombat rehabilitation. Plenty of engaging photos and a friendly design make for an accessible presentation. An author's note, three questions for photographer and wombat rehabilitator Stepan, and suggested resources are appended. Websites. Bib., glos.

(Copyright 2019 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)