Friday, 8 October 2021

Book Review: The Rhythm of the Beach by Russell Irving

 The Rhythm of the Beach
by
Russell Irving
 
Publisher: Russell Irving

Publication date: 2nd August 2021
 
Genre: Children's
 
Pages: 22
 
RRP: $14.99AUD (Paperback - author website)
 
Format read: eBook
 
Source: Courtesy of the author
 
About the book
 
A joyful, poetic exploration of the changing seasons, moods and natural wonders to be discovered at the beach. A celebration of the serenity found when we connect with ourselves through nature.
 
 
My review
 
The Rhythm of the Beach is a contemplative and beautiful picture book that focuses on the changing seasons around an Australian beach.
 
It is spring and plovers lay their eggs. Summer sees plovers hatching dolphins swimming and children splashing. Autumn the crowds are gone, a man walks his dog and surfers ride the waves. Winter the beach is quiet, the occasional visitor rugged up against the cold comes to build sandcastles.
 
Through Japanese zen inspired water colour washes and simple verse Russell Irving builds a connection with nature and the cycle of the seasons in a simple to understand format that will be appreciated by children and adults alike.
 
I found this calming, serene  poem a good way to introduce poetry to children and remind ourselves to slow down, look around and enjoy nature.
The book concludes with a couple of poems inviting the reader to connect with nature as a way to learn about and connect with themselves.
 
Recommended age: 7 - 12 years
 
My rating 4 / 5  ⭐⭐⭐⭐
 
About the author
 
Russell Irving has worked for many years as an environmental educator and manager, including with Indigenous ranger groups at the Kimberley and Northern Land Councils in Broome and Darwin respectively. He currently works with the Bandjalang Rangers on the North Coast of New South Wales, one of the most biodiverse regions of Australia.
 
This experience has reinforced his passion for educating people, and children in particular, about the many benefits of building meaningful connections with nature. This is a core theme of his writing and drives his continued production of high-quality, educational children's books. 
 
Visit the author's website where you can purchase the book and download nature themed activities.
https://www.russell-irving.net/ 
 
Challenges entered: Aussie Author Challenge #Aussieauthor21

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