Culture 1: International Literature - Mem Fox Picture Book

BIBLIOGRAPHIC DATA:

Fox, Mem. 1988. KOALA LOU. Ill. by Pamela Lofts. New York: Harcourt, Inc. ISBN 0152005021

PLOT SUMMARY:

Koala Lou is an adorable koala who is loved by all, but her mother loves her especially so and tells her this often by saying, “Koala Lou, I DO love you!” When Koala Lou’s mom becomes so busy taking care of Koala Lou’s brothers and sisters that she stops telling Koala Lou how much she loves her, Koala Lou becomes very sad. Then she decides that if she can win the upcoming Bush Olympics, then her mother will tell her how much she loves her again. In the end, Koala Lou is not quite fast enough to win, but that does not stop her mother from hugging her tight and declaring, “Koala Lou, I DO love you! I always have, and I always will.”

CRITICAL ANALYSIS:

This heartwarming tale from beloved Australian author Mem Fox is perfect for reading aloud to children. The classic theme of unconditional motherly love adds to the story’s timelessness and appeal.

A variety of cultural markers are present in KOALA LOU, embedding the story in Australian culture. For example, various animal characters, such as a koala, emu, platypus, and kookaburra, highlight many of the fascinating species that are native to Australia. Similarly, the setting of the story draws attention to the Australian environment, which is evident in references to gum trees and the “Bush Olympics.” Furthermore, Pamela Lofts’ bright and beautiful illustrations portray the Australian climate splendidly. Gorgeous colors and highly animated animal characters will easily draw children into the story, giving them a great view of the Australian wilderness.

Children will adore this tale, and the appealing depictions of cuddly Koala Lou are sure to please at story time. The catchy phrase, “Koala Lou, I DO love you!” will encourage children to participate in the reading of the story. My three-year-old son loved saying the phrase with me as I read, and he also laughed out loud at the pictures of Koala Lou getting ready for the Bush Olympics by lifting weights in her red sneakers. This story is definitely a winner in my son’s opinion!

REVIEW EXCERPTS:

From HORN BOOK starred (February 1990):
“In a gentle tale set in the Australian bush, Koala Lou wants to win the Bush Olympics. A good choice for story hour, bedtime, or reading aloud.”

From KIRKUS REVIEW (1989):
“This satisfying reworking of a familiar and ever-important theme is appealingly illustrated--bright colors, soft-edged sculptural forms, precise detail, dozens of expressive animals. Another winning import from one of Australia's favorite authors.”

From PUBLISHERS WEEKLY (August 11, 1989):
“Koala Lou is loved by everyone, but it is her mother who loves her most of all. She often tells her daughter, ``Koala Lou, I DO love you.'' As the family grows and her mother gets busier, Koala Lou yearns to hear those words again. She sets out to win the Bush Olympics as a way to gain her mother's attention. Lofts' colored-pencil drawings portray the Australian flora and fauna beautifully, including a few of the more exotic species.”

CONNECTIONS:

* Young children love to see real pictures of animals that they read about in stories. A quick Internet search for “koala,” “emu,” “platypus,” or “kookaburra” gives instant access to some outstanding pictures of these Australian animals.

* After looking at the pictures of some of these animals, students might also be interested in reading some nonfiction books about these animals and their habitats. A nonfiction book such as A KOALA JOEY GROWS UP by Joan Hewett would pair perfectly with KOALA LOU.

* Since the illustrations in KOALA LOU are outstanding, students might also enjoy drawing their own Australian animals with Australian trees and flowers in the background. As a group, students might also be interested in researching other Australian animals and plants (that are not in KOALA LOU) to add to their drawings.