Review of Koala Lou, a Mem Fox book

Review of Koala Lou

A. Book Information

Fox, Mem. 1988. Harcourt Brace Jovanavich. Printed in Singapore. ISBN 0-15-200502-1.

B. Plot Summary

This is the timeless story of Koala Lou, who longs for her mother’s attention again after new additions to her family. Koala Lou, in an effort to hear the words again, “Koala Lou, I do love you,” decides to compete in the Bush Olympics to win her mother’s affection.

C. Critical Analysis (Including Cultural Markers)

This is a charming picture book sure to be adored by many generations to come because of its classic, timeless message. The book is by an international author, Mem Fox, who is from Australia. Her knowledge of Australia makes this book culturally authentic. The language is a noticeable cultural marker, especially when Koala Lou’s mother says, “How’re ya goin’ blossom?”

The setting gives additional cultural markers, including the trees that are native to Australia, including the gum tree.

The characters and illustrations also add an element of culture because many are native to Australia, including the koala. Many of the characters in the pictures are never identified by name, but it can be deducted that they are of Australian origin.

This book shows that no matter where we are from, we all need our mother’s love.

D. Review Excerpts

“Koala Lou” tells a warm story of mother love that doesn’t depend on performance. Koala Lou knows her mother loves her. Still, with all Koala Lou’s brothers and sisters, her mother doesn’t always have time to tell her so. Koala Lou gets a bright idea. She’ll compete in the Bush Olympics. Surely if she wins, her mother will give her a great big hug and tell her how she loves her.
When the Bush Olympics start, things don’t quite go according to Koala Lou’s plans, but one thing she can be sure of is that her mother loves her anyway.
This is a sweet book, with bright and warm pictures. The repeated line “Koala Lou, I DO love you!” is one that parents will be quick to adapt for their own children.

Reviewer: Sondy, Sembach Library Review accessed at:

http://www.usafelibraries.org/kids/reviews.php

Here is what some first graders had to say about the book!

“I liked the book because Koala Lou came in second place.”-- Patrick

“This book is great because Koala Lou is a good climber.” --Elizabeth

Accessed at: http://www.internationalauthorstudies.ecsd.net/po%20Mem%20Fox%20author%20study.htm

E. Connections

Other books for young people by Mem Fox.

· HUNWICK’S EGG. ISBN 0152163182

· WOMBAT DIVINE. ISBN 0152020969

· POSSUM MAGIC. ISBN 0152632247

· WILFRID GORDON MCDONALD PARTRIDGE. ISBN 091629126X

· BOO TO A GOOSE. ISBN 0140567666

· TIME FOR BED. ISBN 0152010149

· HATTIE AND THE FOX. ISBN 1416903089

SHOES FROM GRANDPA. ISBN 053107031X