Meri Kirihimete Kererū by Juliette MacIver

It's Christmas time in the bush and all the creatures are excited. They're wondering what special treats Santa will bring them. Kiwi wants to fly, Tuatara would like a soft spot to sleep. Tūī would like a mirror but Kererū just wants to be able to sing like her friend.

Author Juliette MacIver exquisite rhyme is on show again, in this beautiful Christmas story. It's a perfect picture book for any kiwi kid, with te reo Māori woven throughout. MacIver's stories are always such fun, with her love of linguistics obvious to any reader. There's a sweet little message for younger readers about friendship and kindness.

An array of native animals brings this sweet story to life, and illustrator Daron Parton has done an incredible job. His style is unique and fun with vibrant colour and bold shapes, and just a dash of silliness. Every character is utterly adorable (hello, bat with glasses!). I can see this book being used in a classroom as part of an art unit.

This is a very fun, funny and heartwarming Christmas story from a talented duo that will make a perfect Kirihimete gift for every younger reader. 

Reviewer: Rebekah Lyell

Allen & Unwin