This This Dog - Ko Tenei Kuri: 2021
By (Author) Ian Munro
Illustrated by Rebecca Utting
Translated by Piripi Walker
Kelsey House Productions
Nana's Shed Books
17th June 2021
New Zealand
Children
Fiction
Paperback
20
Width 230mm, Height 210mm
115g
This Dog (Ko Tenei Kuri) knows what it takes to be a best friend, and despite their obvious differences, he's fine with being a friend to the clever and opportunistic blackbird that resides in his yard. Ko Tenei Kuri exhibits the traits that underpin a true, strong and non-judgmental friendship: unconditional love, acceptance, trust and loyalty. "This Dog that is my dog" consistently puts the comfort, safety and interests of Manu Pango (Blackbird) ahead of his own, choosing to be a faithful and steadfast friend; a loyal protector from That Cat (Tera Ngeru) and a one-dog audience patiently listening to endless performances of Blackbird's arias.
If youre looking for stories that model inclusiveness, helpfulness, and the blessings of family, neighbours and friends, for young children, look no further than the Nanas Shed Books bilingual collection.
The fact that these books are bilingual makes them very valuable on so many levels. I really love the extra ways of making the Mori words accessible for readers of any age. The glossaries, questions and talking points at the back are so well put together and so useful.
The charming illustrations advance each story, with little extras telling their own stories. Im particularly thinking here of the animals, and what they do. There is so much great detail to keep young readers going back and noticing new things each time they open the covers. All in all, these are a collection of delightful and important books. Sallie Shippen Episcopal Minister, retired.
Author, Ian Munro, is a retired educator (secondary and tertiary levels). He is a published author who has written a weekly column for the Otago Daily Times since 1999. This Dog - Ko Tenei Kuri is his first foray into writing for young children. Illustrator, Rebecca Utting, is a User Experience designer (UX designer) and digital illustrator with a background in animation, learning design, voice acting, web development, videography, and carnival sideshows. This Dog - Ko Tenei Kuri is her first children's picture book. Translator (Maori), Piripi Walker (Ngati Raukawa) is a Victoria University graduate and Director of Language Studies at Te Wananga o Raukawa. He translates for health and educational groups, Maori and non-Maori organisations, and has translated a range of children's books, including Margaret Mahy's He Raiona i roto i nga Otaota - A Lion in the Meadow.