Wombat Divine

Mem Fox has done it again! Fox uses the special animals of Australia to illustrate that eachof us has a special place in life that we're each suited for. Love the illustration and the possitive way the animals handled finding that special place for Wombat. It was a favorite of ours this last Christmas, but we also keep it out year round and visitors to our home love reading it.

This Australian story about a young wombat wanting the lead in the school Christmas play, tugs at the heart strings of those who don't always get what they want. In the end the young wombat learns that all the parts in the Christmas play are important and together the actors create a wonderful experience for all in their animal rendition of the Christmas Story. Beautiful illustrations.

If you are looking for a different type of Christmas story for your children this season, I highly recommend this one. A friend from Australia sent this to my son and we absolutely love it. It has a sing-songy verse, adorable illustrations, and a beautiful story-line that is just not your "standard" Christmas story. Poor Wombat desperately wants to be a part of the Nativity play, but there is just no part he is suited for - except - the most important part of all! I'm buying several copies of this book to give as gifts. Get a copy for yourself - you will love it.

Wombat Divine is a lovely (and beautifully illustrated) Christmas story if you're looking for something a little unusual. Wombat tries out for all of the parts in the Nativity play, but he's such a big clumsy muddle of a wombat that they can't find a part for him to play. Finally they think of the perfect role for him - the sleeping baby Jesus.Wombat's various disasters are very funny for kids, and the Australian animals are very well drawn (lots of character). Wombat Divine is a great addition to the bookshelf.

We have purchased or have been gifted about 200 children's books overthe past 4 years and browsed through many more at bookstores andlibraries. My wife and I agree that Wombat Divine is at the top of our list of favorite children's books. It is also the book most requested by our children. The story is short and touching. The words are carefully crafted. The artwork is wonderfully vibrant and provocative. The story is about native Australian animals, Christmas, live theatre, auditions, rivalry, friendship, heartbreak, joy, and success. I recommended it to a School Librarian and her reply was: "Based on your recommendation, I looked for Wombat Divine in a bookstore - found it, loved it, bought it"....