A spotlight on Wombat, Mudlark & Other Stories by Helen Milroy
Wombat, Mudlark & Other Stories by Helen Milroy is one of the six books shortlisted for this year’s Readings Children’s Book Prize.
Here’s everything you need to know about this collection of warm and inspiring fables.
‘ Wombat, Mudlark & Other Stories is a book that engages readers from the very first page. Each of these bite-sized stories is imbued with a timeless quality, and feels as big as a continent. These are adventures that encourage optimism, and celebrate imagination, loyalty, courage and cooperation. Milroy’s characters all have something unique and important to contribute. Wombat, Mudlark & Other Stories makes for an absolutely fantastic read-aloud, sprinkled throughout with illustrations from Milroy herself. This is an enriching book we can all see ourselves recommending for years to come.’
– Kim Gruschow, Chair of the judging panel
Who should read this book?
Wombat, Mudlark & Other Stories is suitable for independent readers aged 7+, or as a family read-aloud for ages 5+. A wide range of readers will love these entertaining fables featuring Australian animals and landscapes, but especially kids who are attuned to the natural environment. This book is also a great one for adults and kids to read together as bedtime stories.
Watch out for…
We’re very excited about Milroy’s next book for junior readers! Willy-willy Wagtail (Tales from the Bush Mob) is about a bush fire and how Willy Wagtail, Gusto (the wind) and Crow get all the Bush Mob to work together to save the community.
Meet the author…
Dr Helen Milroy is a descendant of the Palyku people of the Pilbara region of Western Australia, but was born and educated in Perth. Australia’s first Indigenous doctor, Helen studied medicine at the University of Western Australia and is currently Professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at UWA, Honorary Research Fellow at Telethon Kids Institute and a Commissioner with the National Mental Health Commission. Helen was recently appointed as the AFL’s first indigenous commissioner.
