Billy-Be-Safe’s Very Hot Day

This little rhyming adventure is a fun positive way to alert very young readers to everyday dangers that injure and kill too many Australian children. The story follows friends like Jumping June the Kangaroo, Blue Tongue Beau and Artie Emu from June’s house through the bush to a swimming spot. Our reckless characters navigate hazards that threaten them with spinal injury, snakebite and being squished, all thanks to Billy’s simple precautions. Information at the back of the book reveals that real life can be tragically less successful—for example, that 10 children die each year from preventable car accidents in driveways. A good book for adults to read to toddlers and infants, and an ideal reader for 5 to 7 year olds. For advanced readers and adults there’s safety information. For everyone, there are pleasing reminders in the text and the appealing pictures.