Five Little Platypuses

Five Little Platypuses illustrated by Karen Erasmus (Lothian/Hachette)
PB RRP $14.99
ISBN 9780734414908
Reviewed by Hilary Smillie

The classic children's song, Five Little Ducks Went Out One Day is given an Aussie twist when five little platypuses wander off from their mum. An in-house picture book, Five Little Platypuses has been charmingly illustrated by Karen Erasmus.

The chubby babies are depicted in various watering holes while their anxious mum awaits their return each day. Double page spreads in soft colours enhance the gentle nature of the lyrics, and show the platypus family surrounded by bushland, native flora and smooth river stones. A couple of colourful lorikeets, a frog and a butterfly add extra appeal. I am sure mums will sing, rather than read this picture book to their toddlers as they count how many youngsters return each night.

Observant children will discover all the truant babies on the second last spread and know a happy ending is in store. The great rhythm and repetition of this well-known song is easy to learn and in this new form, will delight another generation of kids.