Koala Lou by Mem Fox
A. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Fox, M.1989.KOALA LOU Ill. by Lofts, P. KOALA LOU. New York: Harcourt Brace. ISBN 0152005021
B. PLOT SUMMARY
In this beautifully illustrated and fun-filled picture book, a young koala competes for her mother's heart when a new sibling is on the way, only to discover that families come in all shapes and sizes, and that there is no second place when it comes to love. This book is perfect for growing families or as a baby shower gift.When Koala Lou’s mother becomes so busy that she forgets to tell her firstborn how much she loves her, Koala Lou enters the Bush Olympics, intending to win an event and her mother’s love all at one time.
C. CRITICAL ANALYSIS( INCLUDING CULTURAL MARKERS)
Fox's picture book was beautifully written to depict the universal emotions an older child feels when they are no longer the “only one.” Koala Lou’s example is relatable to first-borns who want their mother’s full attention when new siblings come along. Koala Lou does this and tries to win the Bush Olympics in hopes of regaining the attention that was once his. Fox offers many cultural markers to connect the story to Australian culture. For example, the main character is a Koala and lives in a gum tree. This allows readers to infer that the story takes place in Australia. Furthermore, context clues such as the Eucalyptus trees are icons of the Australian flora. Fox’s use of different Australian animals such as koalas, emus, platypuses, kangaroos, wombats further confirms the setting of the story.
Language plays a role in this story and demonstrates how each word used has a specific use. Fox uses Australian heritage language and dialects such as “How’re ya goin,” "blossom?” This verse stands out in the book and truly demonstrates the language as part of the culture, specifically the region of origin as different regions have their own dialects. The illustrations add the visual component that “takes” the reader to Australia. The illustrations alone tell a story but coupled with the dialogue, brings it all together to give the reader the complete experience of Koala Lou. Emotions are conveyed throughout the entire story making it that much more memorable and enjoyable. The facial expressions throughout the story adds to the experience as the reader is given the opportunity to feel what the characters are feeling.
D. REVIEW EXCERPTS
Horn Book: “A first-rate choice for bedtime, story hour, or reading aloud.”
Kirkus Reviews: “Another winning import from one of Australia’s favorite authors.”
E. CONNECTIONS
Make medals for the Olympics. Make hats. Each child can wear a medal and a hat. Have a parade.
Students can study animals that live in Australia, such as a Koala.
Comments
Post a Comment