PLEASE NOTE: This is a Big book edition, giant-sized, for reading to class groups. It is not the standard size edition.
A factastic tour of Australia from A to Z with award-winning author and illustrator Frané Lessac. Now in Big Book size!
What is the Fremantle Doctor? Where is Qui Qui? And why are some islands named after days of the week? You’ll uncover these exciting facts when you explore the A to Z of Australia – from Bondi to Kakadu and all the way to Taronga Zoo. Discover why Australia is one of the most amazing countries in the world!
- In 2016, it was the Winner of the Crystal Kite Member Choice Award, Australia and New Zealand Division, Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators and a Notable Book, Eve Pownall Award for Information Books, Children's Book Council of Australia Awards.
- Includes high interest facts and full colour illustrations of diverse locations throughout the country. All states represented. Indigenous content included.
- "A good reminder that there are plenty of natural and man-made sights to enjoy without a passport ... 4/5 stars." Books+Publishing
About the Author
Frané Lessac is an author and illustrator of international renown, having over forty children’s books published throughout the world. She was born in the USA and lived on the Caribbean island of Montserrat and London before moving to Australia. Frané has contributed her distinctive paintings to many critically acclaimed children’s picture books, including
My Little Island, a Reading Rainbow feature book. Also,
On the Same Day in March was named a Top Ten Science Books by ALA Booklist. Frané’s contribution to Amnesty International’s
We Are All Born Free, celebrating the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, has been translated into more than 30 languages and was a USBBY Outstanding International Book. Her latest books include
The Mayflower, written by Mark Greenwood and published by Holiday House,
Midnight, to be published by Candlewick Press in 2015 and
A is for Australia, published by Walker Books Australia in early 2015.
Industry Reviews
A is for Australia is a good reminder that there are plenty of natural and man-made sights to enjoy without a passport. Frane Lessac's picture book is not just a selection of pretty images but a 'factastic tour'. -- Thuy On * Books+Publishing *
This is a delightful picture book that the whole family will be able to get into. -- Practical Parenting * Practical Parenting *
A is for Australia captures the visual diversity of our beautiful country. It is the perfect book to share with family and friends overseas -- Susan Whelan * Kids' Book Review *
This book is a joy to look at, read and learn from. -- Dale Harcombe * Read and Write with Dale *
It is perfect for families to share (and create) their own memories and experiences, and for primary school children to utilise for their Australian studies. -- Boomerang Books Blog * Boomerang Books Blog *
I really appreciated the thoughtful choice of facts for each topic -- Susan Stephenson * Book Chook *
The rich and colourful gouache illustrations extend the text with native plants and animals and lots of visual details. Recommended. -- Margaret Hamilton * Pinerolo Newsletter *
The hero of this informative picture book is Lessac's brightly coloured, naive illustrations, which bring each place to life, showcasing not just their topography and flora and fauna, but also a bevy of exuberant people enjoying what each destination has to offer. This is an excellent contribution to both the alphabet genre and to picture books about Australia's many natural and man-made attractions. -- Stephanie Owen Reeder * Sydney Morning Herald *
I am tempted to describe A is for Australia as an alphabetical extravaganza, but while Frane Lessac's bold illustrations and attention to detail certainly are extravagant, she has also created a guide to Australia - its uniqueness and diversity - in a way that makes the information accessible to all readers, regardless of age -- Creative Kids Tales * Creative Kids Tales *
Australian picture books feature -- Oh Creative Day * Oh Creative Day *
Craft Activity -- Oh Creative Day * Oh Creative Day *
Australia Day List -- Kids' Book Review * Kids' Book Review *
This is a unique alphabet book that will enlighten and entertain any child or adult who reads it. -- Read Plus * Read Plus *
A is for Australian Animals is a must read for any Australian. -- Educate Empower * Educate Empower *
I love Frane Lessac's books. Her artwork is incredibly appealing to kids and adults alike. -- Book Chook * Book Chook *
