Reviewed by Wendy Lipke
Linda Gifford, author and illustrator, has taken an amazing true story which became world-wide news to create her latest children’s book. In her story she has imagined some of Valerie’s adventures over the 500 days she roamed Kangaroo Island before eventually being returned to her owners.
This hard covered children’s picture book has its created text and illustrations presented on a white background. The text appears in rhyming form or simple sentences while the pictures that accompany the story either cover the whole page or are presented in two to four vertical or horizontal blocks.
The author has imagined Valerie finding herself on a boat after falling down a hill in her haste after stealing a sausage from the camp barbecue grill. When the boat takes off and hits a wave Valerie’s adventures at sea take place. Here she is helped by a pod of dolphins who help her ride to shore on a surfboard.
On the beach she believed she was living the dream until she heads off on another adventure. Before long she realises that she should be with her family instead of chasing adventures.
In her journey back she would cross sandy deserts, wade through creeks, hurry down valleys and scurry up peaks. Finally, she spotted the sausages on the grill, and she knew she was home again to enjoy hugs and embraces.
When she fell asleep, she dreamed about where her next adventure might take her and what experiences she would have.
I have read several children’s picture books lately based on true stories or Australian icons and have found them very interesting. The presentation of them has been of the highest standard and I believe they have much to provide by keeping these parts of our history alive. They appear to provide an extra something to children’s literature.
This story about Valerie is humorous to keep attention and would be a good addition to any library for young people.
Valerie: Australia’s Bravest Sausage Dog
(2026)
by Lucinda Gifford
Albert Street Books
ISBN:9 781761 182594
$19.99; 36pp