Dugong Magic
Deborah Kelly
Illustrated by Lisa Stewart
Lothian Children’s Books
Hachette Children’s Books
ISBN: 9780734419965
Paperback $15.99
Description:
A beautifully illustrated, lyrical and informative story about dugongs, one of our most unique endangered animals. Ideal for anyone with an interest in marine life and the environment, and an excellent teaching resource.
There are not many dugongs left in the world now. But what if humans freed the sea from nets? What if we cleared it of rubbish so that seagrass could flourish again and dugongs could feed?
A beautiful and thought-provoking picture book about dugongs – the mysterious creatures who were once mistaken for mermaids. Deborah’s Kelly’s beautiful, lyrical writing brings these animals to life, and highlights the dangers they face, inspiring young readers to care for and protect our natural world. Lisa Stewart’s gorgeous illustrations capture the beauty of these gentle and endangered creatures.
My View:
This is a very sensitively written book that provides gorgeous images with a message about ecology, the environment and optimism.
Read and learn about the dugong’s calf’s family close relationship, its habitat, it quests for sweet waters, pollution free, and an ocean that all can utilise.
For adults, teachers and carer’s there is a handy page of “Dugong Facts” to assist you answering those never ending “why” questions 😊, eg where they live, what does the name mean, how do they communicate? etc
A great teaching resource and an environmental call for action.
Reading, Writing and Riesling 
What a gorgeous-looking book, Carol! And what a great way to share information about dugongs with little ones. I’ll bet your grandson loves it. It makes me happy that people are giving some attention to creating quality children’s books like this.
Margot I am continually surprised by how good children’s books are these days – both the information they offer and the design/ illustrations- most have such gorgeous artworks.