(LS 5653) Wombat Divine by Mem Fox

Wombat Divine by Mem Fox

a. Bibliographic data
Fox, Mem. 1995. WOMBAT DIVINE. Ill. by Kerry Argent. Florida: Harvourt Brace and Co. ISBN 0152014160

b. Brief plot summary
Wombat loves Christmas and is excited to finally be old enough to audition for the Nativity play. As each role is cast and Wombat learns that he isn’t quite right for the part. Wombat thinks there are no roles left and becomes sad until a friend discovers the perfect part for him.

c. Critical analysis with specific consideration of cultural markers for each book.
This holiday tale is a great story to share with children. The character Wombat will definitely resonate with younger children who often get discouraged about not being old enough to do something and also relates with older students who may have experienced being left out/not right for a part or place in a game, play or sport.
One of the most obvious cultural markers in this story by native Australian Mem Fox are the animals that were chosen to represent characters in this story. Each animal pictured in this beautifully illustrated book are animals that are considered native to Australia, such as the wombat, bilby, emu, and kangaroo. While many cultures and countries celebrate Christmas with a nativity play, the use of these native animals makes Wombat Divine unique and perfectly suited for a discussion about holiday celebrations in the outback.
A subtle, yet important cultural marker is the mention of plum pudding at the end of the story. Plum pudding is a traditional Australian dish that families eat during the Christmas holiday. Normally, a silver coin or some type of trinket are hidden in the pudding during preparation and brings good luck to the person that finds it.

d. Review excerpt(s)
• The New York Times Book Review : "The story and the illustrations are both enchanting and endearing.”
• From Booklist: “As usual, Fox spiffily combines a witty text with her wonderful art. Here the fun comes with seeing all sorts of Australian animals (emu, bilby, kangaroo) decked out in their Christmas-play garb. The crisp watercolors set against pure white backgrounds will delight story-hour audiences and lap sitters alike.”

e. Connections
• This book fits perfectly with a Christmas or Holidays Around the World thematic unit or lesson and can be used to discuss native animals to Australia.
• Pair with other books by Mem Fox to complete an author study.
• Pair Wombat Divine with Edward the Emu by Sheena Knowles. Both stories have the main character trying a variety of roles before finding the perfect place.