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For too long koalas have been called bears. But this koala is out to prove to the world that he is BARE! And that never, ever, ever can a koala be called a bear.
All artwork created by hand
For Koala Bare, illustrator Matt Shanks worked in watercolour and pencil. Watch him in action from his home studio as he brings our beloved Koala to life for the cover illustration of the book.
The traditional and timeless techniques of watercolour painting gives this book a true keepsake and classic feel.
Published by HarperCollins Australia
There's so much to learn from reading Koala Bare, and not just that koalas can get a bit grumpy for being called a bear. Here's just a few themes that you can find inside these downloadable teachers' notes.
These notes are also packed full of classroom activities, a page-by-page discussion guide and worksheets.
Download free teacher resource (PDF)Bonus content
Trying to find the perfect koala isn't as simple as drawing any old koala. Koala Bare illustrator Matt Shanks has put together a in-depth story including photos and sketches and some of the mistakes he made in the process of creating the final character. Join his mailing list to receive a copy of this story as well as other discounts and bonus content.
Support your local book store
We know Koala Bare can be huffy, but it doesn't mean we can't give him a cuddle every now and then. For a limited time, you can get your very own Koala Bare plush toy. Only while stocks last so get to your local bookstore now.
Praise for Matt's other books
"Matt’s vibrant and unique water-colour illustrations provide the perfect accompaniment to the lyrics of the text. I suspect this could easily become a family favourite."
- Wendy Fitzgerald, CBCA Reading time
Available 29 Sep 2017
For too long koalas have been called 'bears'. For too long koalas have been called bears. But this koala is out to prove to the world that he is BARE! And that never, ever, ever can a koala be calleda bear.
About the illustrator
Matt Shanks is a critically-acclaimed and internationally published author and illustrator. He is driven by his love of the combination of words and pictures to reach the hearts and minds of readers everywhere.