The Best Beak in Boonaroo Bay
Narelle Oliver (author/illustrator)
Lothian Books, Australia: 1993
ISBN: 0850915597
Genres: animals, picture book
Issues: acceptance, differences, ecology, environment
CBCA Shortlisted Book, Picture Book of the Year, 1994.
The birds of Boonaroo Bay are having an argument about something very serious - which of them has the ‘best' beak? This is serious question when you are a bird!
The pelican suggests a possible solution - a competition. The birds agree, provided the wise pelican is the judge. The result, however, is not quite what any of them expect, and teaches each of them to look at things from a slightly different perspective.
A modern-day fable, this picture book is both an exploration of the feeding habits of various examples of Australian birdlife, and recognition of the unique abilities of each member of a community. There is a lovely rhythm and repetition to the text that keeps it interesting without actually using rhyme. The clever use of alliteration and a wider vocabulary than is usual in books for this age group will challenge and delight younger readers. The hand-coloured linocuts are detailed and create a lovely textured look that has an almost tactile appeal.
Highly recommended.
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