Old man Emu by John Williamson
Illus. by Simon McLean. Penguin Random House Australia, 2020. ISBN:
9781760898793.
(Ages: 3-7) This picture book adaptation celebrates 50 years since
the release of iconic Aussie singer-songwriter John Williamson's hit
song Old Man Emu. After recently publishing book versions of
Christmas
in Australia and My
Dad Snores this new release of one of his most enduring
songs (and the one that kickstarted his career) comes as no
surprise. The crazy lyrics are perfectly paired with wacky
illustrations by Simon McLean that will have little ones giggling
the whole way through. For those unfamiliar with the song, it tells
the tale of what an emu can and can't do and compares its abilities
to other Australian birds and animals (he's got a beak and feathers
and things, but the poor old fella ain't got no wings'). While he
may not be able to fly what he can do is 'run the pants off a
kangaroo'.
There is beautiful rhythm within the rhyming lyrics and lots of
repetition, perfect for getting kids to join in, especially with the
'oom ba da little da da da'. As well as obvious uses around music
and singing the book could also be used to start a conversation
about Australian animals and their individual abilities and
characteristics ('you can't loop the loop like a cockatoo', 'duck
can swim, but he can't sing') and applying this to our own
individual human abilities.
This is a joyful and fun way to introduce kids to songwriting and
rhythm and will be a particular favourite for children who have
already been introduced to the song by their parents or teachers.
Adult fans will appreciate the subtle nods to Williamson himself
(the emu is clearly modelled on his image and there are some
references to Quambatook where he grew up). Themes: Poetry/song,
Australian animals, Abilities.
Nicole Nelson