Beyond the glittering sky scrapers of the Gold Coast, at a secluded beach of golden sand, a mob of yellow roos stirred from their slumber in search of fresh water.
The Colouroos, written by Anna McGregor is a cleverly written story which interweaves the concepts of drought, diversity and daring in Australia.
In three different areas of Australia there are three different mobs of kangaroos. They need the same things – family, water and home . The journey from the Red centre of the NT, the Blue Mountains of NSW and the Gold Coast of QLD.
Through their journey they discover that although they all look different, their needs are all the same. And when they realise how similar they are, colourful things happen!
Anna McGregor has weaved a simple yet deep story, intertwining topical issues of diversity and acceptance alongside geography, climate and colour!
Children will adore the colours which leap out of the story in each setting the kangaroos come from.
They will love talking about what the kangaroos discover once they get together around a common waterhole.
And they will love learning more about the diversity of Australia!
The Colouroos by Anna McGregor is a lovely story about Australia and the diverse nation it is, it is a poignant story about the state of the climate and the impact it has on the wildlife and it is a story which celebrates colours and life.
The Colouroos is a book we have loved reading and one which I have enjoyed sharing with children of all ages – it hits the spot with children of all ages
Teaching tips
Sustainability
What is drought? How is drought defined? Is drought a natural occurrence and if so, why? How can we ensure Australia does not make drought occur more often than it naturally should?
Science
Life cycle of kangaroos, habitats and eating habits.
Weather patterns
Geography
Migration of animals across Australia at different times of the year, in different years due to weather or human events.
Personal development
What is diversity? How is your community diverse? Why does the world need to be a diverse place?
Visual Art
Explore primary and secondary colours and the different degrees of these.
