Howzat Pat: Mission wildlife rescue by Pat Cummins and Dave Hartley. Illus. by Serena Geddes

In the second book of the latest Pat Cummings series, Pat and his mates discover an area of pristine bushland that has been bulldozed. This is particularly upsetting for Beth as this is an area that holds cultural significance to her family and the local Indigenous community. The three friends work together trying to stop the destruction of both the now bulldozed area and the area surrounding it but life gets in the way and when an accident sidelines one of them they need to engage their teammates to ensure that the animals and the trees are protected.

After some investigation, which reveals the mayor’s involvement, the trio plan a daring wildlife rescue!

Mission Wildlife Rescue is written in the same way as the first book in the series, making it a great read. The story is so engaging that it really is one that readers will want to read in one go.  The easy-to-follow text, brilliant illustrations and the reflection of an Australian childhood all combine to make this a series that will be immensely popular with young readers.

Pat and his friends are relatable and written realistically, they all have their faults, but these are worked through and make each character more likeable.  The series is one that is going to be popular with all readers as there is something for everyone, from the sporty to the environmentally conscious as it is a great read for all ages. Teachers and parents will enjoy reading this to their children and children will enjoy reading it independently and talking about it with their friends.  The environmental links in this book make is one that should be on every shelf. 

I am really looking forward to the next book in the series.

Themes: Sports, Cricket, Friendship, Wildlife destruction, Environmental issues, Indigenous culture/sites.

Mhairi Alcorn