Bowerbird Blues

In Bowerbird Blues, readers follow a strikingly illustrated bowerbird on a poetic journey in search of something blue-but not just any blue. The bird's meticulous collection grows as he scours coastlines, cities and skies for brilliant objects of his favourite colour. Yet, despite his treasure trove, he feels something is missing. Written and illustrated by Aura Parker, this poignant and visually captivating story highlights the theme of longing and the deeper joy of connection. As the bowerbird discovers, the most valuable thing may not be what he can find, but who he finds. Chosen for National Simultaneous Storytime 2024, this book fosters a nationwide love of reading and offers rich opportunities for creative learning experiences.

Educational Benefits:

• Reinforces colour recognition, particularly shades of blue.
• Encourages descriptive language and emotional expression.
• Develops visual literacy and appreciation of natural and built environments.
• Supports themes of sustainability and repurposing materials.

Classroom Ideas:

• Create individual œbower collages using blue found objects and recyclable materials.
• Explore birds and their behaviours through research and science integration.
• Use the story as a writing prompt to describe favourite colours and their meanings.
• Participate in National Simultaneous Storytime to build community reading culture.

Safety & Information:

• Ages: 4+
• Measurements: 275 (H) x 245 (W) mm approx.
• Format: Hardcover
• Supervise use of small or sharp items in collage activities.