What’s the book about?
It all began in a burrow. The fifty-fifth burrow of Bushland Avenue to be exact. If you were ever lucky enough to find this beautiful clearing on Kangaroo Island where the arching gum trees kiss, you’d know that Wurrtoo’s home is the one at the end with the big red trapdoor and large gold doorknob. Can you see it?
Wurrtoo the wombat lives a quiet and solitary life in his burrow on Kangaroo Island, hoping to one day travel to the mainland and marry the love of his life, the sky. When Wurrtoo inadvertently saves Kuula the koala from a bushfire, he acquires the adventure companion he didn’t know he needed.
With Kuula by his side, Wurrtoo leaves the safety of his burrow and sets out on an epic journey to cross the island, reach the mainland and climb to the top of tallest tree in the Forest of Dreaming. But it’s fire season, and danger and strange creatures lurk behind every gum tree. To make it, the pair must face their fears together, learn the importance of friendship and discover the power of wombat wishes.
Recommended for:
Ages 8+.
Three reasons to read it:
- Tylissa Elisara draws on classic children’s literature in the tradition of Winnie the Pooh and Blinky Bill as well as stories from her own Narungga, Kaurna and Adnyamathanha heritage.
- It’s a unique middle-grade novel about friendship, adventure and facing your fears.
- Elisara’s lyrical prose is complemented perfectly by Finney’s stunning illustrations, which bring the story to life with vibrant colours and intricate details. This book is sure to become a beloved favourite for children and families everywhere.
About the authors:
Tylissa Elisara is a children’s social worker who lives and works in Meanjin (Brisbane) with her husband and children. She descends from the Narungga, Kaurna and Adnyamathanha people of South Australia and was born and raised on Mamu Country in Innisfail, Queensland – a heritage, alongside her Irish ancestry, that she proudly regards as a long legacy of storytelling. Tylissa is studying a Master of Writing, Editing and Publishing at the University of Queensland. Wurrtoo is her first novel.
Dylan Finney is an Australian-born graphic designer and artist. He is a proud descendant of the Yanula and Mara clans, and also has English and Irish heritage. He lives on Darkinjung land. His work explores identity and culture – inspired by people, places, animals, light and colour. Dylan lives on the NSW Central Coast.
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