Baby's book of KIWI ANIMALS

 

Baby’s book of KIWI ANIMALS 
Sandra Morris  Nicolette Treanor

 

Baby’s book of KIWI ANIMALS
 Sandra Morris 
Ill. Nicolette Treanor
Walker Books (2026)
Board book, 26 pages
ISBN 978 1 761603 47 1

 ‘Out in the sun, gecko basks. Under the rocks, giant wētā hides.’

This eye-catching board-book is described as ‘a high-contrast sensory book for babies.’  This refers to the dramatic black-and-white illustrations, silhouettes of New Zealand creatures. Appearing as solid blocks of black or white, such creatures as the kiwi, cicada, kina, wrybill and butterfly really stand out. Research shows young babies’ eyes respond to these contrasting images. Each picture is surrounded by a frame of repeating patterns designed to help babies develop their visual acuity. The patterns also mark the different environments the creatures on their section live in: the mountains, the forest the wetlands and the seashore.

 Sandra Morris has written a brief text for parents to read aloud as they share the pictures with their young readers-to-be: ‘From the ridge top, kākāpō booms.  Over the moss, giant land snail slides.’

 As a hint to the babies, many of the animals, like the frog and the tuatara are shown sleeping or resting. ‘Inside the cave, bat slumbers.’ One of a group of dozing bats has just opened his eye. The many eyes seen in this book are perfect black circles, sure to catch a baby’s eye.   

 Another satisfying feature of this well-thought-out board-book is that the corners are rounded, not sharp.

In every sense, this book is one that is safe to put into a baby’s hands.

‘Into the depths, sea lion plunges. Goodnight, sea lion.’

 Trevor Agnew
7 Nov 2026  Review 3879