No-one will forget the fires of the summer of 2019/20. The scenes of fleeing people and wildlife. When the fire roared through the bush a mother koala guarded her joey by holding him beneath her, saving the little one from being burnt. The mother had burnt paws and back. They were found by humans and cared for and treated by vets. They named Tippy and Jellybean.

This little picture book tells the tale of Tippy and Jellybean, how the fire raged towards them, and while other animals ran or flew away, they couldn’t escape, holding onto the tree. It’s the story of their survival and how they were saved and healed. It’s a story of hope.

Anil Tortop’s illustrations are soft, yet full of emotion, so that you are there with the little koalas as they recover from their ordeal to be finally reunited with their home. Sophie Cunningham’s story is simply but perfectly told.

A dollar from every copy sold pf this book will be going towards the fund, which supports the work of vets — like the ones who rescued and cared for the real Tippy and Jellybean.

Reviewed by Jenny Williams
Age Guide 4+