Life in a Hollow
By: David Gullan Illustrated by: Suzanne Houghton
A lyrical story about the native animals who call a tree hollow in the Australian bush home.
Who is home in the hollow? + Full description
Tree hollows are very special places that provide animals, both big and small, with a space to nest and feel safe.
Explore life in a tree hollow in the Australian bush and meet the native creatures who come to call a hollow a home. You’ll be surprised just how many choose to move in!
You’ll also discover the important role tree hollows play in the environment and how we can help protect them.
Reading level varies from child to child, but we recommend this book for ages 5 to 9.
Shortlisted, The Wilderness Society Environment Award for Children's Literature 2024: Non-Fiction
- Short descriptionNews
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Reviews
"This beautifully crafted book not only entertains but also educates, making it a valuable addition to any child’s library. […] David Gullan and Suzanne Houghton have created a treasure that will inspire young imaginations while instilling a deep understanding of the importance of preserving the delicate balance of the Australian bush. "
Geni Kuckhahn, CBCA Reading Time,5 November 2023
"In Australia almost 350 species of animal need a tree hollow for resting, nesting or hiding. This book is sure to pique curiosity, stimulate imagination, spark conversation and foster conservation, by illuminating the parade of diverse animals homed over the evolution of a single tree hollow. With dreamy illustrations and lyrical prose Life in a Hollow is sure to become a treasured go-to."
Abbie Mitchell, author of A Hollow Is a Home (CSIRO Publishing, 2019), 30 September 2022
"In this beautifully illustrated new book from CSIRO publishing, teacher/author David Gullan not only shares the story of one such hollow but makes the reader aware of their importance in nature’s life cycles, and how fire, land clearing and storms can have a devastating effect on the availability of such important habitats."
Barbara Braxton, The Bottom Shelf, 3 April 2023
"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."
Kathryn Beilby, ReadPlus, 3 April 2023
"Life In A Hollow is jam-packed with tidbits and information outlining the real-estate potential of tree hollows for some of our favourite critters, and it also discusses those creatures that aren’t so cute and cuddly."
Elizabeth Vercoe, Kids' Book Review, 20 April 2023
Details
Hardback | April 2023 | $ 24.99ISBN: 9781486316342 | 32 pages | 250 x 250 mm
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Colour illustrations
ePDF | April 2023
ISBN: 9781486316359
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Available from eRetailers
ePUB | April 2023
ISBN: 9781486316366
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Available from eRetailers
Features
- Highlights the importance of tree hollows for native birds and marsupials.
- Explores how one tree can provide a home to many different species.
- Engaging non-fiction narrative with charming illustrations and rhyming text to delight younger readers.
Authors
David Gullan is a primary school teacher, who developed a love of Australian wildlife from his parents. He now aims to share his passion for Australia’s native creatures with children everywhere.
Suzanne Houghton is an award-winning illustrator who loves nothing more than to splash colour on a page. When it comes to her books there is one thing Suzanne wants more than anything: to bring joy. She is also the illustrator of Wonderful Wasps.
For Teachers
We have created these Teacher Notes as a free PDF download to support the use of this book in the classroom.
Extra
Download this printable poster (PDF) for use in your classroom, library, bookshop or home.