The Aussie Christmas mix up by Jackie Hosking Nathaniel Eckstrom

It all began when  Possum and his crafty crew of helpers tried very hard to decorate their very own Christmas gum tree from what they could find around them,  and then continued when they had to figure out how to get Santa out of it when he got stuck but now there is yet another problem.  Because he thought Santa checked the list - not once, but twice - and put all the carefully-wrapped gifts in his bag, he forgot to tighten the tags,  so he has no idea who is to get what and when the bush creatures open their stockings, nothing is what they expected!!!

Magpie has received a voucher for singing lessons, and Wedge-Tailed eagle has a hang glider, while Emu has a ladder and Koala, a trampoline.  Confusion and disappointment reign until, as usual, Owl figures out the problem - and the solution. 

Once again, Hosking’s rhyming text is superbly supported by Eckstrom’s illustrations which capture our unique flora and fauna in a fun-filled way telling a yarn that is going to be loved by young readers.  Who do they think should have received what?  And do the animals' choices match their predictions? 

This is a unique series that celebrates not only the traditions of Christmas in a uniquely Australian way, but also reminds us of the values like friendship, teamwork and collaboration that should underpin why we do what we do.  Love it.

Themes: Christmas, Gifts, Helpfulness, Australian animals.

Barbara Braxton