The Bowerbird

By Author / Illustrator

Julia Donaldson, Catherine Rayner

Genre

Animals

Age range(s)

Publisher

Pan Macmillan

ISBN

9781529092240

Format

Hardback

Published

30-03-2023

Synopsis

The Bowerbird is the irresistible tale of Bert - a small bird with a very big heart, from Number One bestselling Julia Donaldson and Kate Greenaway Medal-winning Catherine Rayner.

Bert the bowerbird is looking for love. He has made the most perfect bower, complete with a pretty purple flower, and is hoping it will help him to meet the bird of his dreams. But when Nanette comes along, she is far from impressed. Poor Bert is hurt, and flies off to bring her presents a-plenty. But will it ever be enough, and is Nanette really right for Bert?

A beautifully illustrated treat of a book from the creators of The Go-Away Bird.

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Reviews

The Bowerbird is another modern classic from Julia Donaldson, told in her signature rhyming text. This is the tale of Bert the Bowerbird who lives in Australia. Bowerbirds attract a mate by building an arch out of twigs and decorating it with shiny and beautiful items. Bert is keen to win the affections of Nanette, a rather ungrateful bird who is just not satisfied with Bert's decorating efforts. He keeps on trying but is tricked by another bird, who steals not only his decorations but the affections of the haughty Nanette as well. What a sad tale? Of course not- Bert meets a lovely little bird called Jean who is more than impressed by his pretty purple flower decoration. And they all lived happily ever after!

The pictures that accompany the text are detailed and charming and the text will captivate young listeners- particularly the repeating, ever-growing list of decorations that Bert collects. A lovely birthday present for any child who loves Julia's back catalogue or a strong addition to any classroom bookcase.

Picture book / Reviewed by Wendy Kelly, teacher