Bush animals help children deal with different kinds of families.

Bidge’s Mob  is an innovative picture storybook for children (and their parents).  It draws on Australian animals to help children understand the different kinds of families of today. The story follows an aboriginal child’s visit with his grandfather in the country while he learns about many different kinds of families in the Australian bush as well as the importance of his extended family. His newfound understanding helps him to look at his family , living in two homes, in a much more positive and hopeful way. Children with different backgrounds and circumstances will be able to relate to Bidge, his feelings and his thoughts.

Bidge’s Mob  is written and illustrated by Gaye Dell  and had the honour of being launched by the Attorney General, The Hon Robert McClelland.

More information:www.bidgesmob.com.au

UNDERSTANDING A NEW FAMILY STRUCTURE

Examples of animal structures in the book:

• Nuclear families: Dingoes, Brolgas, Parrots
• Nuclear with extended family assistance: Kookaburras, Magpies
• Community rearing: Penguins, Dolphins
• Absent parent families: Tiger snakes, Crocodiles, White sharks
• One parent, multiple partners: Lyre birds, Bower birds
• Single Fathers: Emus, Cassowarys, Mallee fowls
• Single Mothers: Koalas,Wombats, Tasmanian Devils, Bats, Echidnas

Bidge's Mob written and illustrated by Gaye Dell
Size: 240mm x 255mm
28 pages