3 Reasons Why You Should Read Tawny Trouble by Deb Fitzpatrick

What’s the book about?

When Tessa’s family accidentally hit a tawny frogmouth while driving through the bush at night, they feel terrible. But the tawny is alive and needs their help. What Tessa doesn’t know is where that help will lead …

Recommended for: 

Ages 9+

Three reasons to read it: 

1. So here’s the thing: Tawny Trouble isn’t just a cute story with a bird in it — it’s like a nature adventure in book form! If you’re the kind of kid who collects weird leaves just because they look cool, tries to imitate bird calls (even if it just sounds like a squeaky door), has imaginary conversations with wombats and kangaroos, or just LOVES the idea of being out in the wild, where anything could happen … then this book is basically written for YOU.
2. You think this is just a “rescue a bird” story? Ohhh no. Tessa soon finds out that helping the tawny is only the beginning. There’s a secret. A discovery. A twist! I won’t spoil it, but let’s just say… sometimes a flap of wings can stir up a whole heap of adventure!
3. Seriously, it feels like Fitzpatrick’s sitting next to you with a hot chocolate and a flashlight going, “Wanna hear something amazing?” Her writing is warm, funny and full of heart. Plus, she really gets how kids think: curious, kind, a little awkward and totally ready for adventure.

Buy a copy of Tawny Trouble here.

About the author:

Deb Fitzpatrick loves bushwalking with her family. When she can, she sneaks away to a shack in the karri forest of the south-west of Western Australia. She’s the author of 11 books for readers of all ages, some of which have received awards in Australia, been published in the US and optioned for film. Her latest is Tawny Trouble (2025). Deb regularly teaches creative writing to both children and adults, and has a Master of Arts in creative writing from UWA. She loves weaving stories from real life into her writing. Deb lived for several years in the cloud forest of Costa Rica, where she did a lot of hiking while toucans, three-toed sloths and spider monkeys crossed through the forest canopy above her. Deb shares her life with her lovely family and their kelpie, who is absolutely not a failed sheepdog.