Another giraffe turning heads in Sydney

Sydney residents recently noticed an African giraffe joining other international tourists in Australia’s premier city. Now, youngsters can read the story about the giraffe that spent his holiday in the exciting city downunder in "Giraffe’s Holiday in Sydney", a picture book for children learning to read.

The unusual tourist didn’t go unnoticed by Sydney journalists. A report published on ninemsn.com.au on 22 August, 2007 under the headline, "Rubbernecking giraffe completes Sydney tour" told how, "the plucky animal caused a stir among locals, turning the heads of busy Sydneysiders."

Written by former teacher, Gary Boddy who taught young children to read in both Australia and the United Kingdom, "Giraffe’s Holiday in Sydney" features photographs of the city of Sydney, surrounding countryside, several of Australian’s unusual animals as well as the odd African visitor. Families with a love of Australia, particularly its animals or who have visited Sydney for a holiday and fallen for its charm should enjoy this book.

Supporting young children’s language development, the text reinforces basic vocabulary including over 50 of the recommended first 100 words for the beginning reader. The text and photographs encourage young readers to discuss concepts such as number, direction and space. The book finishes with a sleep theme, a helpful hint to set the mood for bedtime.

"Giraffe’s Holiday in Sydney" can be previewed on the publisher’s website: http://www.lulu.com/content/879900 and is now available in bookstores or on the Internet at Lulu.com or Amazon.com