In a series of picture books published by Reed up until 2006, writer Melanie Drewery and illustrator Tracy Duncan developed the world of the warm and wise Nanny Mihi.
The late John McIntyre of the Children’s Bookshop in Wellington was among a number of book lovers who lamented the end of the series.
So when Melanie Drewery approached Oratia with a new Nanny Mihi story, we leapt at the chance to remake this beloved kuia (grandmother).
So when Melanie Drewery approached Oratia with a new Nanny Mihi story, we leapt at the chance to remake this beloved kuia (grandmother).
Melanie resumed her collaboration with artist Tracy Duncan (both live in the Nelson area), and a fresh look and feel for Nanny and the books emerged.
Nanny Mihi and the Bellbird thus marks both a return and a new departure — in time for the winter school holidays.
In this colourful picture book, Nanny Mihi welcomes her grandchildren to stay with her during every school break.
On one holiday Nanny introduces her mokopuna to the beautiful melody of a visiting bellbird, and they even teach him to sing a song they have created!
However, bellbird does not visit them on their next holiday with Nanny. Where has he gone?
When the bird returns to sing with some babies along, Nanny explains: “He is a she and she has come to show you her tamariki’.
Their song will live on forever, and we hope the same will be true for Nanny.
When the bird returns to sing with some babies along, Nanny explains: “He is a she and she has come to show you her tamariki’.
Their song will live on forever, and we hope the same will be true for Nanny.
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| Melanie Drewery |
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| Tracy Duncan |
Publication Date: 10 July 2018 | ISBN: 978-0-947506-36-0 | RRP $19.99
Paperback, 230 x 215 mm, 32 pages colour
