The River in our Backyard: Te Awa e Ptata Rawa Ana
By (Author) Malcolm Paterson
Illustrated by Martin Bailey
4
Oratia Media
Oratia Books
12th October 2022
New Zealand
Children
Fiction
Childrens / Teenage general interest: History and the past
Childrens / Teenage social topics: Environment, sustainability and green issues
Paperback
32
Width 208mm, Height 284mm, Spine 4mm
250g
Continuing this successful series that connects kids with local heritage, Tui, cousin Jennifer and whanau go on a voyage of discovery into the history and nature of Auckland's Te Atatu peninsula and the wider Waitemata Harbour. The children learn about the impact humans have had on the river and ocean, how places got their names, and how their family friends Komako and Kumar help to conserve nature. Everyone then joins in the fun of Diwali, attending a local market and watching their friend Rani perform in a dance. All these adventures are brought to life in Martin Bailey's vibrant artwork, and the English and Maori text includes words from the Tamil language.
Malcolm Paterson belongs to Ngti Whtua iwi, which he represents in heritage and environmental matters. He is the author of the previous three Sharing our Stories books. Malcolm lives with his family in Te Atat, Auckland. Martin Bailey is a well-known illustrator who has created dozens of childrens books, including illustrations for The Taniwha in our Backyard. He also manages the publisher Black Chook Books. Martin lives in Muriwai.