Reviewed by Karen Hendriks
Susanne Gervay is
an Australian author renowned for her children's books that explore themes of
empathy, diversity, and social issues. She is a passionate advocate for
children's rights and literacy. Her work has earned numerous awards for its
positive impact on young readers. In collaboration with Sarah Tabassum and
Pooja Mathur, she has created Parrot Palace. This remarkable book celebrates diverse children and their families, reflecting her deep commitment
to inclusion in storytelling.
Pooja Mathur is a teacher librarian who has
been honoured with the Early Career Teacher Librarian Award. A passionate
advocate for reading for pleasure, she is a proud promoter of Australian
multicultural literature and emphasizes the vital role of school libraries in
fostering a love for reading.
Sarah Tabassum is passionate about exploring
the vibrant intersection of digital and traditional media in her work. Born in
Dhaka, Bangladesh, she now calls Sydney, Australia, her home, where she draws
inspiration from the diverse cultures that surround her.
Hari,
Lily-Rosa, and Mikey are three adventurous and fearless kids from diverse
backgrounds. They live in a three-story apartment building called Parrot
Palace, where they form a close-knit team. Together, they share their dreams,
concerns, and face the challenges brought by their cantankerous neighbour, Mr.
Crabtree. As they tackle the problems he creates, they discover the true
meaning of friendship and acceptance.
Gervay has crafted not only an engaging story
but an important one. The narrative features a strong voice, created through
short, simple sentences. The word choices are impactful and concise. Hari,
the name of a lion in India, defends his territory and protects his family.
That’s my name too. The writing cleverly conveys character traits and
culture. The eleven chapters are aptly titled, and the story arc quietly builds
until the confrontation with Mr. Crabtree, followed by some pushback from both
sides. When something unexpected happens and a bridge is built. The dialogue
and writing are perfectly suited for a younger fiction audience. He can’t be
mean when he’s asleep. A blend of Indian, Chinese Hungarian, and Australian
cultures reflects not only the world created in the story but also our own
society, which is rich and diverse. The distinct writing style of Gervay shines
through.
Tabassum's illustrations are simple,
expressive, and full of character. Lifelike and soft, they convey each family's
home life and culture. I love how she creates warmth and captures a childlike
world so beautifully.
Parrot Palace is an immersive and engaging 121-page chapter book,
perfect for children aged 7-11. It beautifully showcases play, culture, and
inclusion. Adding a glossary is incredibly helpful, and the back
matter about the creatives is a nice touch. This book will appeal to children,
teachers, and librarians alike. It is a true celebration of love and belonging.
