06 February 2017

Dance, Bilby, Dance

Little Bilby wants to dance. Everywhere he looks, something is dancing – leaves, ants, willy-willies,
moths and emus. Even his shadow is dancing.

Bilby copies his shadow and soon he is prancing and twirling. Until another shadow arrives, a huge, scary bunyip. Bilby runs away but the bunyip catches him. Fortunately, the bunyip wants to dance too. Bilby has found a dancing partner.

Bright, bouncing illustrations are a highlight of this book. Each page is alive with movement as Bilby dances, runs and falls in a tangled mess. On my favourite page, the willy-willy whirls furiously, gathering up gumnuts, eucalyptus blossoms, leaves, feathers, ants and a very surprised looking gecko.

Tricia Ocktober has won numerous awards for her wonderful artwork showcasing Australian flora and fauna. In this picture book, she cleverly manages to make Bilby both realistic and adorably cute.

Bilby Wants to Dance is a simple but captivating story for young children, perfect for reading aloud at Easter.

Reviewed by Sandy Fussell

Title: Bilby Wants to Dance
Author: Tricia Oktober
Publisher: Ford Street Publishing $14.95 RRP
Publication Date: 2016
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781925272130
For ages: 4+
Type: Children's Picture Book

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