Life in a hollow by David Gullan

Life in a Hollow is the perfect introduction for Early – Primary Years students to one aspect of the Australian bush that is perhaps not frequently discussed. From the smallest of creatures, the Longhorn beetles, which are often responsible for beginning a hollow, to the largest of the creatures, the Brushtail possum, this book takes the reader of a journey of discovery to the different inhabitants of a tree hollow and how they make it their home.

The appealing rhyming text beautifully describes each of the species of bush creatures who live in the hollow.

It didn’t take long for some three-toed skin
To see the hole, and with barely a blink
Head for the hollow, leaving their stone.
Now the shimmering skinks call this hollow a home.

Each time a new species relocates to the hollow, it is widened to suit their size and they remain there for as long as necessary. Once empty a new creature moves in. The author, David Gullan, gives important information about tree hollows in the final pages and how we can help to protect trees that provide a source of shelter for these Australian creatures. Further details are given about the animals in the story and there is an accessible glossary for young readers. The vibrant full-page illustrations in bush colours by Suzanne Houghton show great detail and will engage the audience.

Teacher notes are available.

Themes: Australian Bush, Australian Animals, Tree Hollows, Conservation, Narrative Non-fiction.

Kathryn Beilby