"Wombat said, "Come in!"
Wombat said, "Come in!
From smoke and din
and howling wind,
come in, my friend, come in!"
Do you remember reading about the awful bush fires in Australia in 2019 - 2020? It was in reading about the devastation they caused, I also learned that wombats will often share their burrows with animals trying to escape the heat and smoke.
My interest in that and my admiration for the wonderful storytelling of Carmen Agra Deedy led me to order this new book that is an exceptional read-aloud for early childhood classrooms. Wombat is not concerned about the fires that are burning above his burrow. After all he is sheltered, and it has happened previously.
As he prepares for a quiet read, with tea, cookies and a blanket in hand, the silence is interrupted by a knocking at the door. Wallaby is in dire need of help as he cannot make it home. Wombat welcomes his friend. Wallaby makes himself comfortable with Wombat's quilt on the sofa, leaving Wombat to sip his tea on a nearby chair. It isn't long before Kookaburra stops by, also in a predicament. Wombat gives up his chair.
On it goes with the arrival of Platypus, Koala, Sugar Glider ... each creating additional chaos for the kind and welcoming Wombat. The guests stay much longer than expected. Poor Wombat! By the time the smoke finally clears, Wombat happily sends his many friends on their way.
"Wombat said, "Go home!"
Wombat said, "GO HOME!
It's safe for you to rove and roam,
and time for me to be alone.
Skeddadle! Shoo! Go home!"
Wombat's kindness and welcoming nature is a blessing for those seeking shelter with him. His humorous acceptance of all who show up at his door is so much fun to share with little listeners. It is a story about regard for friendship and kindness, while also offering a quiet message about climate change and the effects it is having around the world.
Brian Lies creates detailed, atmospheric artwork using acrylics and colored pencil to bring this lovely story to glorious life.
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