Amy Hest (text), Jenni Desmond (illus.), On the Night of the Shooting Star, Walker Books Australia, Sept 2017, 32pp., $24.99 (hbk), ISBN: 9781406377330
Bunny and Dog live solitary lives, side by side. Their cosy homes, on either side of a fence, are decked out with everything they love and need. Well, almost.
Although they never say hello to each other, Bunny and Dog often watch each other and wonder.
Then, one special night, when the stars are high, Bunny and Dog venture into their back yards. Their shared experience of the shooting star gives them the courage to finally connect.
Gentle and sensitive, the author and illustrator capture the potential loneliness of life. Even though we may have ‘lots and lots of cocoa’, paw-shaped night lights, snuggly slippers and rooftop gardens, we need friendship.
Sometimes, it’s right in front of our eyes and, sometimes, it takes an out-of-the-ordinary experience to help us step out of our comfort zone.
This oh-so sweet tale would be perfect for young children, especially those anxious about starting school next year.
Reviewed by Penny Harrison
