A kiwi retelling of the tremendously popular children’s classic ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’, this new release illustrated by Patrick McDonald presents beautiful pictures of kiwi vistas and opportunities to search for well known kiwi wildlife icons within the pages.
I’m liking
My almost 4 year old has really enjoyed this book. He likes ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’, so the fact that the text mimics that but puts a new twist on it is very fun for him. Also on the second to last page, the original book features in the illustration which he just loves to point out!
This book presents kids embarking on an amazing (and probably, in real life – impossible for three kids) adventure. The danger of this sort of adventure, especially tackled in bare feet, without adults, is just entrancing for children! The moa looks gentle but impressive – there’s no big ol’ bears to be afraid of – so the danger is all in the journey itself. Exciting stuff!
The moa can be found hiding in every page, so kids will love pointing this out to you once discovered. The back flap of the book cover lists other items to search for and point out, so there is an educational element to the book which provides ongoing interest. There are other things to look out for in the pictures – all of which make the book one that probably won’t sit on the shelf for long. The onomatopoeia is also lots of fun to read aloud.
The conclusion
This is a really fun picture book. It’s great for early readers, as they will be familiar with the original text which will help with their reading. It’s full of NZ scenes, flora and fauna, and I imagine it will be a big hit in lots of homes this summer. It will also find its way into many classrooms and be well loved, I’m sure.
We’re Going on a Moa Hunt is published by Penguin Random House NZ and has an RRP of $19.99.
