Kuwi’s Rowdy Crowd
Author(s): Kat Merewether
Illustrator: Kat Merewether
Publisher: Illustrated Publishing
ISBN: 978-0-9914364-5-9
RRP: $20
Format: paperback
Date of Publication: October 2018
Ages: 3-7
Reviewer’s name: Kirsten Puddick
Reviewer’s Job title: Librarian
Reviewer’s School name: Holy Cross School, Miramar
How highly are you recommending this book? Highly recommended
While young Huwi plays quietly, his mother, Kuwi, sits down for a peaceful cup of tea. However, as every parent knows, children can sense you relaxing and see this as a perfect opportunity to command your attention. As Kuwi tries to find a quiet spot, Huwi follows her and gets into mischief with other animals who want to play too.
The illustrations are bright, attractive and full of amusing details. The washing hanging would only be suitable for a kiwi to wear with gloves made for kiwi feet and kiwi underpants. Kiwiana toys are scattered around and the book spines have amusing titles such as ‘Walrus and Peace’ and ‘Green Eggs, Oh Man’. Even the print of the fabric Kuwi sits on has fantails on it.
The text is simple with lots of great onomatopoeia and talk about farts to keep children engaged. With Karate-kicking kokako and owls singing ‘Mice, mice baby!’ it should make children and parents chuckle.
I enjoyed this book and there is a message to parents at the end, reminding us to treasure the noise and happiness of our offspring and to learn to enjoy lukewarm tea.