Ningaloo: Australia's Wild Wonder by Tim Winton. Illus. by Cindy Lane

Renowned author and conservationist Tim Winton has written his second picture book in more than 20 years and it is a magnificent non-fiction text which will have universal appeal to both children and adults alike. Ningaloo: Australia's Wild Wonder is a visual treasure with illustrator Cindy Lane completing over thirty-one impressive spreads containing hundreds of detailed hand painted animals and birds that exist in the three vital ecosystems that make up this stunning region.

Called Nyinggulu by the First Peoples of the region; the Baiyungu, West Thalanji and Yinigurtura peoples, Ningaloo Reef is located off the coast in the north of Western Australia. It consists of three interconnected ecosystems: the Ningaloo Reef, the Cape Range and the Exmouth Gulf. Because of the unique weather system there is a diverse range of plants and animals that call this place home, and allow this remarkable environment to be recognised as one of the last wild places on Earth.

Each double page spread is rich in information accessibly placed amongst glorious landscapes and detailed illustrations to engage the reader with quick pops of information and ‘Did You Know? facts. Important habitats or communities that exist in the three ecosystems include the mangrove community at high and low tide, the karst community, seagrass community, intertidal community and the fossil reef community. All are vital to the interconnectedness of this exceptional environment. The marine life and land animals that frequent and exist in each of the habitats are beautifully illustrated and accompanied by clearly labelled information boxes.

The final pages share the story of the First Peoples and their interaction with the area as well as the devastating effects of colonisation. There is vital information about the protection of Ningaloo and how readers can take further action. Set out in a traditional non-fiction manner with a contents page at the beginning and glossary and index at the end, this magnificent hardcover 72 page publication is deserving of a place in all home, school and public libraries.

For your own personal interest, Episode 223 of Your Kids Next Read Podcast with Allison Tait and Megan Daley - Your Kid's Next Read Podcast features an excellent interview with Tim Winton talking about the story behind Ningaloo: Australia's Wild Wonder, how the book came about and his hope for the new generation of children who will learn to protect this wondrous site.

Teaching notes: TN_Ningaloo.pdf

Teaching Activity: Ningaloo_ActivitySheet_ONLINE.pdf

Themes: Marine Habitats, Conservation, First Nation Peoples, Marine Life, History, Biodiversity, Ecosystems, World Heritage Sites, National parks.

Kathryn Beilby