A Is for Australia
Winner of the West Australian Young Readers’ Book Award, Hoffman Award
Age 7+
People & Places
A factastic tour of Australia from A to Z with award-winning author and illustrator Frané Lessac.
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!
Creators
Frané Lessac is an author and illustrator of international renown, having nearly fifty children’s books published throughout the world. She was born in the USA and lived on the Caribbean island of Montserrat, as well as in London, before moving to Australia.Frané loves to travel and create books based on her worldwide journeys. She has contributed her distinctive paintings to many critically acclaimed children’s picture books including, The Legend of Moondyne Joe which won the West Australian Premier’s Children’s Book Award, and Simpson and His Donkey, a CBCA Honour Book that was also selected as a USBBY Outstanding International Book. In 2019, We Are Grateful: Otsaliheliga, written by Traci Sorell, was awarded the Robert F. Sibert Honor Book Honor medal, the Orbis Pictus Honor Book medal and the Boston Globe Horn Book Honor medal.
Reviews
A is for Australia is a good reminder that there are plenty of natural and man-made sights to enjoy without a passport. Frané Lessac’s picture book is not just a selection of pretty images but a ‘factastic tour’.
Books+Publishing
This is a delightful picture book that the whole family will be able to get into.
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
Kids' Book Review
This book is a joy to look at, read and learn from.
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
I really appreciated the thoughtful choice of facts for each topic
Book Chook
The rich and colourful gouache illustrations extend the text with native plants and animals and lots of visual details. Recommended.
Pinerolo Newsletter
The hero of this informative picture book is Lessac’s brightly coloured, naïve 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.
Sydney Morning Herald
I am tempted to describe A is for Australia as an alphabetical extravaganza, but while Frané 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
Australian picture books feature
Oh Creative Day
Craft Activity
Oh Creative Day
Australia Day List
Kids' Book Review
It is a wonderful way for a child and their family to learn about the country; its landmarks, towns, cities and features
Read Plus
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At the Table (January issue)
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