Ozzie Pozzie's Rhymes for Aussie Kids

About the Book

These rhymes were born on frequent journeys along the highways of Australia, touring with various theatrical productions. Their author, Patricia Vivian-Lall, amused herself by oberserving strange and different place-names, and composing rhymes about them for her children. There are no Australian nursery, or nonsense rhymes to capture a child's innate love of playing with words, sounds and rhymes, so, she thought if fun with rhymes could also be related to the environment, with visual humor, meanings of names and a map, they would be more relevant and could lay an educational foundation that could be acquired painlessly and make learning fun. Many of these fascinating names reflect the language and culture of the first Australians, the Koori people, and the rich and descriptive meanings of the names are included, thus expanding the child's horizons, also a knowledge and understanding of "differences" can be gained and appreciated. This "building of bridges" could be valuable in later life.

The delightfully humorous, elegant illustrations, painted on silk by Brenda Nelson, depict the environment of each rhyme, and character of animal, bird and human personalities. In each one, they leap off the page and out to the reader with a lively and instantaneous impact, loveable and endearing. The map is included as an early orientation exercise, giving the child an overview of the shape of Australia and an idea of where each place is in relation to themselves and others. There is fun for children living in other countries, who may be coming to Australia, or receive this book as a souvenir of a recent visit to the Antipodes. Whatever the reason, a need was seen which, hopefully, this book will fulfil.

About the Author

Patricia Vivian-Lass, is a professional actress and singer who studied voice, dance, and drama in London, with over forty years experience in straight plays, music theatre, opera and TV in Britain and Australia. Based in Melbourne, her touring has caused her to drive thousands of miles throughout the country and she entertained herself on these long excursions by observing strange and amusing place-names and composing rhymes about them for her four children and grand-children.

Brenda Nelson studied for her ATD in Liverpool University, England, and has had a long career in the New South Wales Department of Education and Training.