Finding Joy in “Over in Australia: A Down Under Baby Animal Counting Book”
As a mom of three busy little explorers, finding moments to snuggle up and read together sometimes feels like searching for a needle in a haystack. The other night, after a long day filled with Lego towers and snack negotiations, we finally settled onto the couch for our bedtime ritual. With my two youngest fighting over who gets to pick the book, “Over in Australia: A Down Under Baby Animal Counting Book” by Maria Gianferrari found its way into our hands. Little did I know, this book would not only captivate my kids but also transport us to the beautiful landscapes of Australia—helping us beat the bedtime chaos with a healthy dose of wonder.
This delightful counting book invites young readers to wander through the adorable world of Australian baby animals. With each page, we meet wombats digging, sugar gliders lapping, and bilbies slurping—who knew learning could be so charming? My kids were instantly drawn to the rhythmic, engaging text that counts from one to ten while introducing these fascinating creatures. It quickly turned into a fun guessing game as my toddler would squeal with delight at each reveal, “Is that a baby kangaroo?”
The illustrations are a feast for the eyes! The warm color palette and soft, whimsical art style sparked countless conversations. My eldest, who is eight and has always had an affinity for art, was particularly enamored with the detailed backgrounds showing off Australia’s unique flora and fauna. As we flipped through the pages, her imaginative ideas for art projects began to flow. “Mom, can we try to paint a sugar glider like that?” she asked earnestly, and my heart melted—this book was inspiring creativity beyond just reading!
One of my favorite moments occurred when we stumbled upon a wombat instead of the expected kangaroo. “Why isn’t he hopping?” my three-year-old asked, his brow furrowing in that adorable way he does when he’s puzzled. It led into a whole conversation about how wombats dig instead of hop. Not only did this book provide joy but it also sparked curiosity and learning in ways I never anticipated.
If you’re looking for a read-aloud that holds your children’s attention while also providing educational value, “Over in Australia” certainly checks all the boxes. Plus, the backmatter educates parents and kids alike about Australian habitats and animals in a way that’s engaging and digestible. I can already envision this book becoming a springboard for future nature-themed projects and explorations!
I’d recommend “Over in Australia” for children aged 2 to 6. It’s perfect for any little one who loves animals—or perhaps a child who needs a gentle nudge towards embracing the beauty of the natural world. It’s not just a one-time read; it’s one of those wonderful books that will be revisited again and again, and will surely become a cherished favorite in our home.
As a mother, books like this mean so much to me beyond just reading—they create connections, conversations, and lasting memories with my children. In a world that sometimes feels scattered, stories like these help us pause, bond, and appreciate the many beautiful creatures we share our planet with, even if most are half a world away. So go ahead, scoop up a copy for your home library. You might just find a little bit of Australia nestled between the pages, waiting to spark joy in your child’s heart too!
Dive into adorable adventures with Australia’s baby animals! >>
