When an inquisitive girl goes to the rocky shore she builds a sandcastle. Soon many visitors stop by the castle.
The newest addition to Dawn McMillan’s Nature Stories series takes readers to the rocky shore, where crab meets sandhoppers, snapper, kina, stingray and more.
With an ensemble of seaside creatures and text in both Māori and English, this is an imaginative story for younger readers. Told in rhyme, it is sometimes a bit clunky.
Translated by Stephanie Huriana Fong (Te Rarawa, Te Hikutū, Te Aupōuri), the reo Māori is great for those looking to extend themselves further.
Illustrator Nikki Slade Robinson uses bright colours and cartoonish characters to bring the story to life.
There's a great array of creatures discussed, including some not normally encountered in children's books. The information pages at the end of the book, cleverly called Tidal Tidbits, offer more information about the animals in the story. It's a treasure trove of interesting facts written in an age-appropriate and accessible way.
There’s a Crab in my Castle is an imaginative story that will encourage young readers to explore the rocky shore and learn about the creatures of sand and sea.
Reviewer: Rebekah Lyell
Oratia Books