Rocky’s an ornate dragon who lives under a rock in Noongar country in south-west Australia. He introduces us to his rellies who live further north: Chlamy with her scary frilled neck who’s the fastest thing on two legs, even though she has four; Moloch, who lives in the desert and eats 750 ants a day; and gigantic Goanna, with his clever wife who lays her eggs in a termite mound. Termites are good tucker for baby lizards.

But the lizards are in trouble as the weather is getting hotter and wetter and that’s not good for the eggs. Goanna decides to visit Liasis the python, who is very wise. She tells Goanna they must all go south to Noongar country where Rocky lives and where it’s cooler. Kaarnka the crow spreads the news across the countryside and the Great Lizard Trek begins.

As you can imagine it’s a long way and there’ll be many dangers. There’s a map at the front of the book that helps us follow their path and see where all the animals end up.

This is a beautifully produced book with exquisite illustrations and child-friendly text. I have learned so much from reading it and now feel a real affinity with our incredible lizard families.

Reviewed by Merle Morcom
Age Guide 5+