AustLit

Abstract: "This beautifully illustrated full-colour picture book is packed with interesting facts and is perfect for young conservationists and students alike with a keen interest in the world around us. On this journey through the alphabet, you will encounter some of the world's most beautiful, rare and endangered animals, from the majestic Amur tiger and the curious kakapo, to the misunderstood Tasmanian devil and the shy zebra duiker."

Each animal page (or letter of the alphabet) contains its current conservation status and population figures, as well as other facts and descriptive information about the species. This is a non-fiction book.

Abstract: Australia has lost more species of mammal than any other continent in the world and many other Australian animals are endangered. This book highlights both the folly of European approach to the Australian environment and the work of volunteers, scientists, farmers and environment working toward saving threatened species.

This book looks at over sixty species. It examines the reasons for their decline and what is being done to save them. It covers a broad range of interesting animals. It introduces a complex topic in a positive, realistic and simple way.

Species: Green Turtle

Conservation Status: Endangered

Abstract: Chellie was very small when she first saw the beautiful green turtles with the scientific name so close to her own. Every year she would watch them swim in the sea and make their long journeys up the beach to lay their eggs. But one day, Chellie makes a grim and horrible discovery, a discovery that turns her life upside down and forces her to act.

Abstract: This is a seemingly sweet book about baby animals and their mothers. But each of the animals is listed as endangered, and some are already extinct in the wild. The gentle verses describe the habits of these creatures, while information boxes point out the bleak facts of their near extinction.

Abstract: From armadillo to zebras, chameleons to quetzals, these exotic animals will surprise and delight. No curious explorer should be without Marc Martin's stunning celebration of strange and beautiful creatures from all over the world.

While it is not discussed in the text, the careful reader will notice that most of the animals included in this picture book are endangered, vulnerable or extinct. It draws attention to the vulnerability of animals all around the world.

Species: Dugong

Conservation Status: Vulnerable

Abstract: The main character of the book, 'Dhyum' is based on a real dugong that was satellite-tagged in 2010 at Mabuiag Island in Torres Strait. Dhyum was named by students from the local Tagai State College. This book is dedicated to the children of the Torres Strait islands with the hope that they learn more about dugongs and the threats faced by the species, so they understand the importance of working to preserving them.

Abstract: Young Zeek, assistant to the museum's curator of amphibians, learns of the fate of what might have been the last Gastric-Brooding Frog, a unique Australian animal which scientists were keen to learn more from. Horrified as he is by the frog's death, Zeek is not about to give up. He is just one of many young scientists who has decided that he can do something about preserving Earth's endangered environmental heritage.

Species: Iguanas, Galapagos Islands

Conservation Status: Vulnerable

Abstract: Follow the land dragon as she journeys from the volcanic mountains, across the cliff edges and through danger and exhaustion to find a lush, safe place and lay her eggs.

Species: Dugong

Conservation Status: Vulnerable

Abstract: The tranquil seagrass meadow seems a safe place for Gentle Dugong and his aquatic undersea friends to play until one day a trawler with its scoop net appears.

Abstract: Ten plays about endangered animals inspired by previously published books written by Jill Morris.

Species: Bornean Orangutan

Conservation Status: Endangered

Abstract: Escape to Kalimantan tells the story of fifteen year old Jack, who has been taught by his father, Arnold, to respect life, to feel a strong compassion for it in all its rich and varied forms. But the horror of 28 April 1996 changes all that. Jack's sister is killed in the Port Arthur Massacre, and days later Jack's mother leaves for good. When his father's mental state begins to deteriorate, Jack realises he's got to do something to help his father get on with life again. Wild places and wildlife are Arnold's passionate interests, so close contact with these, Jack believes, will provide his father with his best hope of recovery. He finds out about a place that has the richest animal and plant life in the world. It's called Kalimantan - wild Kalimantan. Like his poster filled room, the perfect place to escape to, Jack thinks.

Species: Giant Tortoise, Galapagos Islands

Status: Vulnerable

Abstract: A fictionalised account of Harriet. At about 175 years of age it is thought that Harriet the tortoise who lives in Queensland is the world's oldest living land animal.

Species: Corroboree Frog

Conservation Status: Critically endangered

Abstract: Jet the corroboree frog is happily taking care of the tadpole ponds when the water starts to dry up and his family's eggs are threatened. He goes to visit Grandmother Frog to find out why and she tells him all about the summers that are getting hotter every year and the careless humans who are leaving their rubbish around. When a boy and his father arrive to go fishing in the nearby river, Jet seizes the opportunity to show them how humans are threatening the very existence of his species.

See http://www.corroboreefrog.org.au/ and the Amphibian Research Centre for more information.

Species: Bornean Orangutan

Status: Endangered

Abstract: A true-to-life story about endangered orangutans. Discover what they eat, where they live and how they survive.

Abstract: Our class has adopted a tiger cub who lives in another country. Find out about our class tiger before he's all grown up. (Back cover)

This non-fiction book includes photography, illustrations and diagrams. It tells the story of a baby tiger who was orphaned after its mother was shot. It also introduces readers to topics such as deforestation and its impact on endangered species.

Species: Black Rhinoceros

Status: Critically Endangered

Abstract: Ranger Rom wakes up to another beautiful day in the African savanna, only to be summoned by Lisha the leopard to help a friend in grave danger. Ranger Rom introduces wildlife and conservation in a fun and engaging adventure story.

First line: The last colony

Themes: Australian sea lions, endangered species, Kangaroo Island.

Abstract: The Rescue Ark is travelling around Australia helping endangered animals! Watch the wombats, parrots, potoroos, quolls and many more make their way onto the Ark.

'This picture book, illustrated with wonderful collages, keys into the increasing awareness about our endangered animals by young children and their parents. Firstly, have fun tracing the Ark's journey on the colourful map of Australia and reading about the animals that will be collected on its way around the coast. Then, help the animals onto the Ark by singing or reading the rhymes. At the end of the book, find out if the Aussie children make the world safe for their animals again. In the back pages, learn more about these endangered animals in an easy-to-read fast facts text with photographs of the real animals. (Publication summary)

The back of the book contains factual information on each of the species included in the book. Each animal is listed on the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act list of threatened species.

First line: In the parklands

Mentions endangered and extinct animals: Eastern Quoll, Tamar Wallaby, Southern Brown Bandicoot, Bilby, Short-Beaked Echidna, Platypus, Burrowing and Brush-Tailed Bettong.

Quote from poem -

"Foxes, cats, rats, and dogs

Replace the retreating."

Abstract: Everyone likes to build cubbies and play house. Find out where 15 animals make their homes in countries around the world. Some weave, some burrow, some build and some just get lucky. Which house would you most like to share? This book focuses on animal habitats around the world. More specifically, species that use interesting building methods or those with symbiotic relationships with other organisms have been chosen.

The back of the book contains factual information on each the species identified, including whether the species is vulnerable or threatened. However, since publication some species have since been upgraded to threatened or endangered. The animals in this book are anthropormophic, and human objects, clothes etc are found in and as part of the animal homes.

Species: Eastern Barred Bandicoot

Status: Endangered

Abstract: A beautifully illustrated story of this marsupial's plight and how it was saved from extinction. The Eastern Barred Bandicoot is one of Australia's most threatened species. When their existence came under extreme threat from habitat loss, predators and human development, Eastern Barred Bandicoots found refuge in the most unlikely of places – a rubbish tip. This captivating true story details the plight these small, nocturnal marsupials faced, and the outstanding efforts that ensured their protection. Written by Rohan Cleave and illustrated by Coral Tulloch, Bouncing Back shows that even on the brink of extinction, there is hope for the survival of our most vulnerable species.

Species: Southern Cassowary

Status: Vulnerable

Abstract: There’s a buzz in the rainforest after the animals start seeing new signs about the cassowary. But why is the cassowary so important? Join the rainforest animals as they search for the cassowary and hear his special song about his gift to the forest ...

Species: Tasmanian Devil

Status: Endangered

Abstract: A young tasmanian devil becomes lost in the bush, and then reunited with his family after being rescued by a ranger.

While Daniel tries to find his family and survive on his own, he encounters many other Australian animals along the way.

The back of this book contains factual information on tasmanian devils, including the devil facial tumour disease.

Species: Tasmanian Devil

Status: Endangered

Abstract: The Irwin's fly down to Cradle Mountain in Tasmania to take part in a fundraising concert for the endangered Tasmanian devil. After a terrific start, things take a dramatic turn for the worse when self-obsessed celebrity, Adam Starr, causes the real stars of the show to escape.

As with all novels part of the Bindi Wildlife Adventures series, the book contains an 'Animal Fact File', detailing scientific facts about the species featured in the book.

Species: Leadbeater's Possum

Status: Critically Endangered

Abstract: The Leadbeater's possums were thought to be gone; logging, destruction and fire had forced them to flee! But if we take care of the trees and their habitat, they might just come back...look, what's up in that tree?

The Lost Leadbeater's Possums follows scientists as they attempt to locate the possums in their natural habitat, and their efforts to save the species by rehabilitating their home.

Species: Bilby

Conservation Status: Vulnerable

Abstract: The story of a bilby who leads a peaceful life, until the feral animals take over. A sanctuary is finally made for the endangered species, and they begin to rebuild their lives.

Species: Southern Cassowary

Status: Vulnerable

Abstract: When Flynn and Dad arrive at Grandad Barney's banana farm, it's clear that Flynn has a lot of investigating to do. Everything in the place is a mystery, especially his grandad who died almost a year ago, and the strange dinosaur-like birds called cassowaries that make his dad so scared. Why won't Dad tell Flynn what happened? After Flynn meets local girl Abby and discovers two orphaned baby cassowaries, they mystery deepens.

This story introduces readers to that dangers of feeding and caring for wildlife outside of their natural habitats. It includes information about the endangered cassowary birds, and, conservation and rehabilitation efforts to save the birds. The back of the book contains factual information about the species, and useful websites about conservation.

Species: Numbat

Status: Endangered

Abstract: For every young numbat, a day does come when it’s time to leave home, their dad and their mum. When Numby heads out to find his own place, it’s a grand old adventure, a wild numbat chase!. An unforgettably book set in verse, this beautifully illustrated text tells the story of the Western Australian state faunal emblem - the numbat.

When the natural habitat of a numbat is threatened, he heads off on a journey to a new home. The texts shows various threats to the species, such as foxes and urban development, that have resulted in the species becoming endangered. A wildlife ranger rescues the numbat and relocates it.

Species: Red-legged Pademelon

Status: Least concern

Abstract: Paddy O'Melon is the endearing story of a young rainforest kangaroo. Separated from his mother as a young joey, Paddy is found and raised by an Irish family who live in the rainforest and often help orphaned or injured animals. But while Paddy loves his new human family, he's curious to find out what he really is. So, he sets out on a journey into the rainforest where he meets a range of other interesting animals, from musky rat-kangaroos to green tree frogs, from ringtail possums to flying-foxes. But all he really wants is to be reunited with his mother and his own kind. Perhaps the cassowary can tell this little red-legged pademelon who he really is and take him safely home?

This picture book features a large number of animals essential to the biodiversity of Far North Queensland. The Authors Notes state that some species (e.g. Herbert River ringtail possum) can only be found in this area. Many of the animals encountered by the pademelon are vulnerable or endangered, including the southern cassowary. The story highlights the vulnerability of the rainforest, even the impact that a small act of unleashing pet dogs can have on the wildlife. Wildlife carers play a large role in this story.

Species: Mountain Pygmy Possum

Status: Critically Endangered

Abstract: Much of Penelope's story is true. Mountain Pygmy Possums do hibernate, the male does go down the mountain to warmer regions in the winter, and a 'tunnel of love' has been built to help them return safely to their mates.

The home of anthropomorphic mountain pygmy possums is threatened by urban road expansion and construction. Penelope, a mountain pygmy possum, is rescued by a wildlife ranger that endeavours to have a tunnel built beneath the road to allow the pygmy possums to continue their feeding and mating habits.

The mountain pygmy possum is a threatened species.

Species: Pygmy Bluetongue Lizard

Status: Endangered

Abstract: Pinky and Peet live in an Aussie bush town. Come and join them on their adventure...

This narrative follows Pinky and Peet, who ask their mother many questions about themselves. The reader will learn much about the species through this story.

"Pygmy Bluetongue Lizards were rediscovered near Burra, South Australia, Australia in 1992. Prior to this they had not been seen since the 1950's. Thanks to research and conservation efforts, these little lizards can be found on some pastoral land and grasslands in the Aussie bush. In 2014, the Pygmy Bluetongue Conservation Association was established. For more information about this organisation and the Pygmy Bluetongue Lizard please visit: http://pygmybluetonguelizard.visitburra.com." (Source: back cover)

Species: Northern Quoll

Status: Endangered

Abstract: A quoll is visited by the spirit of the thylacine, who helps her and her babies to find a new home after cane toads move into her habitat.

The back of this book contains factual information on quolls, as well as a description of the Northern Territory Island Ark program designed to secure native fauna susceptible to cane toads.

Species: Red-tail Black Cockatoo (South Eastern)

Status: Endangered

Abstract: Ruthie’s wildlife scientist parents are taking on a new challenge – saving the endangered red-tailed black-cockatoo. For Ruthie this means a lot of exciting firsts: living in a house, and not a bus, starting at a ‘real’ school, and the chance to make some friends. As always, Ruthie will be helping her parents with their work, but will it be enough to make a difference for these rare and beautiful birds? And what will Ruthie and her family find themselves up against this time?

Species: Rufous Hare Wallaby (Mala)

Status: Vulnerable

Abstract: In the central desert of Australia, lives a small nocturnal marsupial group called marla, that inhabits the Spinifex and hummock grasslands. Their numbers have declined since 1990s due to habitat destruction and predation. Warla the shy marla, tells how the Warlpiri people rescued her and now she lives in a safe environment.

Species: Gilbert's Potoroo

Status: Critically Endangered

Abstract: Spencer Gray is just an ordinary kid, but he manages to get into some pretty extraordinary situations. When Spencer stumbles on a sinister operation in the bush, his life goes into overdrive – midnight rescue missions, super-endangered animals, hair-raising adventures. To survive, Spencer will need to pull off something spectacular.

Teaching notes available here.

Species: Northern Hairy-Nosed Wombat

Conservation status: critically endangered

Abstract: The northern hairy-nosed wombat, a critically endangered species, is found in one colony in north-west Queensland, Australia, consisting of about sixty-five individuals. Jill Morris tells the history of the species from the point of view of a 25 year old male wombat, with sensitive, colourful illustrations by Sharon Dye. Members of the northern hairy-nosed wombat recovery team have assisted in the development of this important book, produced at a crucial time for the survival of these precious animals.

Animal Antics is a series Steve Parish Publishing. Each book in this series is a narrative about an anthropomorphised Australian animal in its natural habitat. Factual information is presented at the back of the book, and photographs of the animals (by Steve Parish) accompany each page.

Abstract: Australia's night birds - owls, frogmouths and nightjars - are depicted in magnificent gouache painting, accompanied by whimsical verse and informative prose.

This information book contains factual information about different species of nocturnal birds, accompanied by poems. The illustrations depict the birds in their respective habitats, as well as nearby flora and fauna. It contains maps, a glossary, and a comparison of bird sizes.

This book won the Whitly award for Best Children's Illustrated Book in 1994.

Abstract: Far inland, the sun floats on the waves of a bake-earth day. Big Red and his mob of kangaroos wait for night-time when they can search for food. Young male kangaroos wait too - ready to challenge Red and take his place as leader.

This book won the Whitley Award in 2014.

Abstract: A narrative non-fiction book which follows the life of a bilby, an Australian marsupial. The story depicts a young bilby’s birth, habitat, behaviour and diet. When Baby Bilby is born, he’s as long as your little toe. He crawls into his mother’s warm pouch, where he feeds and grows. Baby Bilby is soon ready to leave the safety of the burrow. He follows his mother closely, sniffs the night air, and hops into the moonlight for his first desert adventure.

Abstract: Erik the echidna is feeling sad. His quills make it hard to cuddle his family and friends — nobody likes a spiky hug! But when a few things go astray, Erik finds that his prickly exterior can come in very handy...

This picture book shows interactions with other animals and other the echidna's spikes can work to it's advantage.

Abstract: In the open forest, Emu watches over his nest. Gathering the granite-green eggs under soft feathers, Emu will care for them and protect the fluffy chicks once they hatch. The survival of this unusual family depends upon him.

Abstract: When laughing kookaburras call Joey the little yellow-bellied glider out from his nest one morning, it is the start of an unforgettable adventure.

This picture book tells the story of the daily life of a joey glider, and his interactions with the other forest animals around him.

Abstract: Silus, the platypus frog, lives in the 'green' air of a small remnant rainforest in south-eastern Queensland, Australia. When heavy rain swells the creek where Silus lives, he is swept out of the forest and into the dangerous world of the 'yellow' air.

This species of frog has not been seen since 1981.

Abstract: After a hard day flying the falcons arrive in a large city. They make their nests on a ledge in a multi storey building and the males set off to hunt prey.

Abstract: An engaging picture book that takes children on a journey through the Australian outback and the habitats of the animals that live there. Join Kangaroo, Emu, Platypus, Wombat and Koala as they help find a home for their new friend, Bilby.

Abstract: When Edith met a cheeky young lyrebird on her garden path, she could not guess that he would one day be known as 'A Miracle of the Dandenongs'. Soon, James the lyrebird was singing and dancing for Edith, mimicking the birdsongs and other sounds that echoed through the bush. Word of their friendship spread and people travelled from near and far to film and record James. But with people came change ... This true story, retold by Jackie Kerin and beautifully illustrated by Peter Gouldthorpe, celebrates a remarkable friendship between a gardener and one of Australia's most extraordinary birds.

Abstract: Out in the bush, in a stream in the sun, lived a mother platypus and platypup one. "Swim!" said the mother, "I swim!" said the one, so they swam in the stream, sparkling in the setting sun. Go walkabout in the bush and see who else you can find as you count from one to ten.

Abstract: Platypus leaves his burrow in the riverbank and dives into the cool green pool. It is dusk and he is hungry. Platypus is always busy, always moving, looking for his next meal. Follow platypus as he plays, swims, dives and scurries around his riverbank home.

Abstract: A fun and educational picture book dedicated to Australia's unique and diverse wildlife. Complete with water colour illustrations, rhyming verses and interesting facts on each page.

A picture book for early readers with factual information told in rhyme. Many of the animals included are endangered species.

Abstract: 'An adventurous young wombat finds his way around a winter landscape before snuggling back into his own cosy burrow.

'Snow on the stockman's hut

'Snow on the crows

'Snow on the woollybutt

'Snow on my NOSE!

'It's a big journey through the snow for a little wombat, meeting animals, birds and people along the way...but there's no place like home!

This picture book follows a wombat on a walk through his snowy habitat. Many of the spreads show evidence of humans in the natural habitat of the wombat, suggesting that humans are simply a part of native animals' daily life. It also illustrates other animals, native and otherwise, who live in the same area; and also the wombat's burrow.

Abstract: Spinifex Mouse is the heart-warming tale of Cheeky, a spinifexhopping mouse, who lives in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. Cheeky is an adventurous little mouse that loves to leap high into the air and practice acrobatic tricks. Every morning, when his family have returned to their burrow to sleep after a night's foraging, Cheeky sneaks out again to look for more food and practice his flips. Each day, he ventures a little further from the burrow. One morning, when Cheeky is far from home, he shows off his clever tricks in front of a hungry snake and becomes swept up in a heart-stopping and very risky adventure.

See Magabala Books website for detailed teaching notes.

Abstract: This children's book about honey possums, is based on scientific evidence resulting from 20 years' zoological research into these tiny marsupials in their natural surroundings in the south-west corner of Western Australia. Both animals and flowers are reproduced with such detailed accuracy, that they will pass the scrutiny from experienced botanists and zoologists and the book will be of use in the schoolroom for biology teachers to children of all ages.

Abstract: A superstorm destroys Rosella Ava Bird's flower garden. All the bees are disappearing. A giant sinkhole cracks open beneath Rosie's school bus, and mysterious voices rise up from the depths. A giant tornado blasts the house of Frank, Rosie's sinister next-door neighbour, threatening Rosie's family. And Rosie's sister, Raven, has gone missing. Should Rosie lead a mission into Bug World to rescue Raven? Or stay home and save her family?

Abstract: There's a storm brewing and the hive must find a new home. With clouds filling the sky and thunder growling, Bertha bravely rises to the occasion a until she meets BEAR, that is! Bertha and Bear is a book buzzing with friendship, finding your place and the courage of one brave little bee.

There are many implicit themes in this picture book: the storm (an extreme one) could be read as climate change and the impeding doom that is species decline; it is clear in the story that homes for bees are scarce; and bees are shown to benefit other animals (i.e. bears for example).

Abstract: Binnie is the last bee to be born in the hive, and finds a wildflower garden saving the hive from starvation.

Abstract: The bees on the Bell estate are dying. There'll be no more delicious honey, and without the bees to pollinate flowers, no more fruit and vegetables. No more of Mrs Simpson's glorious pies and cakes! Worse still, Mr Fisher the gardener will have to leave the estate, along with his family. Darius Bell is determined that something must be done, even if the dastardly Mayor is against him. Then Darius has a great idea. But he will need help from his friends and family to make it work. And he must drive a hard bargain with Mrs Lightman, the school principal and a dragon if ever there was one... A sequel to the award-winning Darius Bell and the Glitter Pool, this is a very funny story of problem-solving, teamwork and pollination.

There is debate in the book about whether the loss of bees is a "disaster" and Darius and his friends learn that in fact it is, as bees (and the loss of honey) impact people and the natural environment significantly and on many levels. This book is heavy with descriptions about bees, their habits and habitats as well as numerous types of honey. While the cause of the bees' deaths is not revealed, their importance is clearly represented in the narrative. The children at Darius' school learn to pollinate the fruit and vegetables in place of the bees, and in so doing, learn their significance.

Abstract: The cold is coming and Scout is on a daring flight in search of the last flowers of autumn. Scout's mission is very dangerous, but it is also vital, because the flowers provide the precious nectar the hive needs to make honey. Can the hive make enough honey to survive the long winter months?

Abstract: Herbert Peabody is a farmer who grows fruit and vegetables in his big, big vegetable patch at Mulberry Tree Farm. When he discovers that his new neighbour, Bee, is having trouble finding enough pollen to supply her family's hive, Herbie decides to lend a hand to find more flowers. But there's another concern: The Voice That Belongs to Nobody has taken up residence in the once-grand mansion of Huffelton, scaring away anyone who ventures inside the neglected, lonely grounds. Will Herbie be able to find more flowers in tome for Bee's hive? And can he solve the mystery behind the voice in Huffelton House?

Abstract: “He’d only have to whistle and they’d start swirling around him. Like the centre of a universe. And all the bees hanging like stars. This bright, glittering sphere…” As the world’s honeybees disappear, a family-owned apiary struggles to keep up with overseas demand. Driven by matriarch Joan’s iron will, the business continues to grow. And then Melissa arrives out of the blue. The Honey Bees is a tale of Family and Empire; Action and Consequences; and what happens when the bee finally stings.

A play for young adults.

Abstract: 'Sometimes bees get too big to be up in the branches, sometimes they fall and break their bones. This week both happened and Foreman said, 'Tomorrow we'll find two new bees. Peony lives with her sister and grandfather on a fruit farm outside the city. In a world where real bees are extinct, the quickest, bravest kids climb the fruit trees and pollinate the flowers by hand. All Peony really wants is to be a bee. Life on the farm is a scrabble, but there is enough to eat and a place to sleep, and there is love. Then Peony's mother arrives to take her away from everything she has ever known, and all Peony's grit and quick thinking might not be enough to keep her safe.

This children's book tells the story of Peony who wants to become a 'bee'. How to Bee is set in the future after global warming has created food shortages and killed off most of the bees. It is now the job of 'farm kids' to act as 'bees' and pollinate fruit and flowers to produce food for the 'Urbs' (city dwellers). Peony's farm is sustainable and idealised. Nostalgia for simpler, greener times is evident in the names of the farm kids, such as Peony, Magnolia, Applejoy, and Honey, as well complimentary slang like the term 'supercherries'. While the story revolves around Peony being taken by her mother to serve a family in the city, she does return to the farm and the novel ends with scientists having been able to successfully breed bees and reintroduce them to the farm. 

Abstract: James and his sister Anne combine forces with an intelligent swarm of bees to outwit property developers who intend to destroy a forest in southeastern Australia, only to be confronted by a sinister old hermit whose mysterious power causes devastating results.

Quickhoney features bees who communicate with children saying "Giant machines will kill forest... Madness of mankind".

Abstract: The Sugarbag is the adventure story of Jimmy and Max, two young brothers, who are on their way to visit their grandfather. Walking through the bush, they encounter an Australian native stingless bee buzzing around their heads. This gives Jimmy the opportunity to teach little Max all he has learned from his grandfather about hunting for 'sugarbag'. Sugarbag is the European word for the honey produced by the stingless bee. The boys go racing through the bush in pursuit of the bee hoping it will lead them to its hive. This is Max's first encounter with hunting for sugarbag and he doesn't really understand what they are searching for, preferring to imagine some sort of bush treasure trove filled with sweets. Sugarbag is a favourite treat for Aboriginal people. We call it ngarruu. When Grandfather was a little boy, he went hunting for ngarruu with his father,' Jimmy explained proudly. Max imagined bags of sweets piled up high. 'Mmmm, sugarbag sounds yummy,' he rubbing his belly.

Abstract: When daylight fades and the night shift clocks on, an underwater symphony begins. Polyps start popping to a funky sea groove, sea slugs shimmy and alien angels fly into view. The reef at night is teaming with energy and wildlife, all working together to create an underwater masterpiece.

According to the author, this book was inspired by a film documentary of the same name. It contains factual information about the reef, human impact and devastation of the reef, as well as information about proceeds and donations to Ocean Ark Alliance. It also contains a brief section titled "Saving the Reef".

Abstract: The Great Barrier Reef lies off the coast of Queensland: 2000 kilometres of spectacular coral reefs, sand cays and islands, Australia’s most precious marine possession. Teeming with life, it covers 350,000 square kilometres.

'In the late 1960s the Reef was threatened with limestone mining and oil drilling. A small group of dedicated conservationists in Queensland – John Büsst, Judith Wright, Len Webb and others – battled to save the Ellison Reef from coral-limestone mining and the Swain Reefs from oil exploration. The group later swelled to encompass scientists, trade unionists and politicians throughout Australia, and led in 1976 to the establishment of a guardian body: the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.

'That it still survives is a legacy of activists, artists, poets, ecologists and students. In 1967 they were branded as ‘cranks’; now they should be recognised as ‘visionaries’. 

For older readers.

Abstract: The Irwin clan are taking time out to holiday with friends on Lady Elliot Island just off the Queensland coast. As a regular guest of the island, Bindi can't wait to show her friends around! And with the turtle nesting season in full swing, there is plenty to do and see. But when Bindi joins her friends on their first scuba dive, she spots a young turtle in trouble. Will they be able to save it in time?

Bindi also learns a lot about sustainability on an island which focuses on reducing its carbon footprint through efficient energy use and waste management.

Abstract: Counting down from twelve to zero, the reader learns about some of the fish found on the Great Barrier Reef and the threats to their continued existence.

Abstract: A young Australian girl dives into the sea and joins the Waterworld. With her friends in the Mermaid Commune she fights to rescue the creatures of the deep from the inhumanity of humans.

Abstract: This book is based on findings from the PhD research conducted by Mariana Fuentes on the impacts of climate change on the northern Great Barrier Reef green sea turtle population. The main character of the book, "Myrtle", is based on a real turtle that was satellite-tagged in 2008 at Mer Island, Torres Strait. Myrtle was named by students from the local Tagai State College...

Abstract: The Great Barrier Reef, argues Iain McCalman, has been created by human minds as well as coral polyps, by imaginations as well as natural processes. In this landmark book he charts our shifting perceptions of it, from the terrifying labyrinth that almost sunk Cook's Endeavour to a fragile global treasure.

For older readers.

Abstract: Tilly’s Reef Adventure is a delightful lift-the-flap book about a baby Green Turtle who, against the odds, makes it into the ocean and begins her journey in the seas of the Great Barrier Reef, meeting friends and foe along the way. After surviving some adventures on the reef, she finds herself caught in a plastic bag that she has mistaken for a jellyfish. She is washed up on a beach where she is saved just in time by children who are cleaning up rubbish along the shore. At the back of the book, there is extra information about the reef, including threats to the reef and how you can help keep it, as well as other parts of our environment, healthy and free of rubbish.

This book contains factual information about the Great Barrier Reef, conservation and threats to its safety.

Abstract: With her home under threat from a warming ocean, Zobi, a brave rhizobia bacterium, teams up with a family of slow but steady Zoox (zooxanthellae). The coral becomes gravely ill and bacteria around them begin to starve. Can Zobi and the Zoox work together to save the day?

This book is about a symbiotic relationship. It tells the story of the microscopic friends living in a tiny coral polyp. 

Abstract: The Dream of the Thylacine is a lament for a lost species, and a celebration of the Australian landscape. It interposes arresting text and images of the last known thylacine in a concrete cage with sweeping colour paintings of the animal in its natural environment.

The Dream of the Thylacine is a complex text that draws attention to human responsibility to the environment. It alternates between the thylacine's perspective in captivity and it's dreams of its natural habitat. 

Abstract: One day Palana, the son of the great god Moinee, is out hunting. He begins to track a big kangaroo called Tarna. Tarna hides behind a tree and attacks Palana when he comes close. Only a young pup hears Palana's cries for help and runs to the rescue.

This is an Aboriginal Dreamtime story. See also Kannenner The Brave for another version of the story, which comes from the Nuenonne nation of Bruny Island off the Southeast Coast of Tasmania.

Abstract: Rosie tells the story of the capture and death of the last 'tiger-wolf', Tasmania's doomed thylacine, tragically declared a protected species after the last of its kind had already died ... But was there anything Rosie could have done?

Abstract: 'Me name be Hannah O'Brien and I be seventy-six years old. Me first thing is an apology - me language is bad cos I lost it and had to learn it again. But here's me story and I be glad to tell it before I hop the twig.'

Into That Forest is about two young girls lost in the forest, who are saved by thylacines. The story focuses on colonial life, and its impact on the species.

Abstract: Seven-year-old Ben Arthurson lives on a farm on the north-eastern fringe of the Tasmanian wilderness. During his adventure treks into the rainforest, he discovers a young thylacine, a creature thought to be long extinct. Events that follow his sensational find threaten to reveal the existence of the animal.

Abstract: A quoll is visited by the spirit of the thylacine, who helps her and her babies to find a new home after cane toads move into her habitat.

Abstract: Stripes in the Forest by award-winning author, Aleesah Darlison, is the story of an iconic species lost. Told from the perspective of the last wild, female thylacine, it provides readers with an insight into the rare beauty and uniqueness of these amazing animals and explains their fight for survival and provides important lessons for future generations.

Shane McGrath's illustrations show the landscape of the thyalcine's habitat changing over time. The book includes white settlers coming to Australia, and men hunting thyalcines. It is a powerful book.

There are 'Thyalcine Facts' at the back of the book, including a statement about National Threatened Species Day and a call to "reflect on what happened in the past and how we can protect our threatened species in the future." 

Abstract: In a dying country town lives a young man fighting the future, a young man fighting the past, and a long-lost animal that can teach them both the art of survival. The animal swerved into the bracken, its smooth long tail slipping away. Satchel listened a minute for any sign of it but it was gone ... He wondered what its name had been, who had owned it, what hard history had left it alone here, at the foot of the hanging volcano.