All Set For the Big Wet

Mandy Foot (illustrator)

Lothian Children's Books, Australia: October 2011

ISBN: 9780734411969

Genres: animals, picture book

'The ants come scurrying one by one...' Watch out, because the Big Wet is due any day and ten different Australian animals are boarding the Ark in increasing numbers. But will it ever actually rain?

In a clever variation of a traditional children's song, All Set for the Big Wet serves as both a counting book and a sing-along story for youngsters. Unfortunately the creator of the text isn't acknowledged as the clever crafting of language that maintains the rhyme and rhythm of the song despite the less-than-malleable names of some Australian animals deserves recognition.

It is Mandy Foot's illustrations that are the main attraction in this delightful picture book. The double-page spreads are packed with character and colour – and colourful characters, in true Australian style. Foot's immense affection for all animals shines through on every page, where caricature and realism meet in perfect harmony. There is great humour and energy in every picture, where vibrant colours capture the intensity of the Australian landscape.

Great fun. Be warned that children will want to hear this until they can sing it off by heart!