Fox, Mem. Koala Lou. Ill. by Pamela Lofts. San
Diego: Voyager Books, 1989.
ISBN: 0-15-200502-1
Plot Summary:
Koala Lou is the
story of a baby koala bear that cherishes her mother’s love and attention. As more and more siblings come along, her
mother has less and less time to devote wholeheartedly to her. Longing to hear
her mother speak the comforting words she previously lavished upon her, Koala
Lou devises a plan to “win” back her mother’s attention and affection.
Critical Analysis:
In this classic story by Australian author Mem Fox, readers
will at once be captivated by this beautiful story; one that will delight young
readers and will quickly become a bedtime favorite. Koala Lou is loveable and her plight will
resonate with readers. The characters are believable and relatable. Rich text,
strategically placed on the pages, propels the reader forward through the
story. The vivid colored pencil
illustrations of Pamela Lofts will enthrall readers as she whisks them on a
journey through the rich Australian landscape bursting with authentic native
animals. Lofts ability to convey emotion
through her illustrations is evident in the facial expressions of Koala Lou and
the other characters throughout the book.
Review Excerpts:
“Koala Lou celebrates the eternal love of a mother for her
child…” ~Publishers Weekly (August
11, 1989)
“…Koala Lou is most likely to appeal to younger children,
who treasure physical expressions of affection.” ~Booklist
(November 15, 1989)
Connections:
** Students could identify each Australian animal depicted
in the story and do research to find
information about them.
** Other animal books by Mem Fox:
Possum Magic by Mem Fox, illustrated by
Julie Vivas
Hunwick’s Egg by Mem Fox, illustrated by
Pamela Lofts
Wombat Divine by Mem Fox, illustrated by
Kerry Argent
** Books about Australia
D is for Down Under: An Australian Alphabet by Devin Scillian, illustrated
by Geoff Cook
Over in Australia: Amazing Animals Down
Under - Marianne Berkes, illustrated by Jill
Dubin
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