Turbo Turtle by Gregg Dreise

Turbo Turtle is fourth book in Gregg Dreise’s series Scales and Tails which includes Fast Fish, Super Snake and Lethal Lizards. This vibrantly illustrated and engaging new release cleverly shares a tale of how a fast impatient lizard became a slow moving turtle.

After hatching from its shell, a lizard explores its environment searching for his parents. Taken by an eagle, he struggles to get free and loses his tail in the process. Falling to the ground he is saved by Clever Man – Biamme, who vows to look after the lizard he names Warrabah until he can find his family. Biamme and Warrabah travel the land looking for his family with Biamme using his magic to allow Warrabah to be turbo-charged in search. But Biamme stresses to Warrabah that he must obey the Elders from different places and ask permission to hunt and be on their Country during his journey.

Initially Warrabah did as he was asked but his impatience led to the Elders of each Country meeting with Biamme and demanding that Warrabah is punished for not respecting the Lore. Biamme protects Warrabah with his magic and as the spears of the Elders are thrown, he changes into a turtle and is forever to live in the water.

Turbo Turtle is a fascinating story with an important lesson to be learnt about facing the consequences after making a mistake. The expressive and detailed illustrations in true Gregg Dreise style are simply stunning and the illuminating lime green used on the cover is a standout.

Teacher notes are available on the Magabala website.

Themes: First Nations Culture, Belonging, Permission, Country, Respect, Traditions, Consequences.

Kathryn Beilby