Tjitji Lullaby (Michael Ross & Zaachariaha Fielding, illus by Lisa Kennedy, ABC Books)
A lyrical storytelling beauty aligned with rich bedtime qualities of calm and serenity featuring diverse Australian wildlife. Tjitji Lullaby, the hardcover board book for babies to two-year-olds, originates from the bedtime song played to millions of families on ABC Kids TV, ABC Kids app and iview. With poetic words by Michael Ross and Zaachariaha Fielding of Electric Fields, and stunning artistry by Lisa Kennedy, ‘Tjitji’ (from the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara languages) is a special ode to the ‘child’. Tjitji – float me now on the calmest of waters. Tjitji – sleep is a present from a day that was gorgeous. The Australian evening landscape is represented with sweeping, vivid dusks of crimson and navy paints on canvas, and daubs of speckled white and yellow stars against a deep, night sky. Kennedy’s amiable wildlife, including koalas, platypuses, frogs, moths and kingfishers, carry the tune of the lullaby as they transition from quiet time to bedtime. Gentle waters, sparkles and reflective moments all serenely culminate to end the day, while doting parents provide comfort and safety for their little one with the sentiment of knowing their love is returned. Tjitji Lullaby is a peaceful, richly symbolic bedtime engagement; an idyllic lullaby to soothe each and every young ‘child’.
Romi Sharp is a picture book writer and digital marketer for children’s authors and publishers.
Books+Publishing pre-publication reviews are supported by the Copyright Agency Cultural Fund.
