Following on from Gina Newton’s articles Communicating Science through Children’s Literature Part I (WISENET J66) and Part II (WISENET J68) comes the publication of her first book. Realising a

 personal dream, Gina launched Blossom Possum: the sky is falling downunder at Smith’s Alternative Bookshop in Civic, Canberra, on Friday 31 March. A picture book published by Scholastic Press, Blossom Possum also features beautiful and creative illustrations by the renowned children’s book illustrator Kilmeny Niland. The story of Blossom Possum gives a delightful Aussie twist to the re-telling of a favourite folk tale and features some exciting new characters such as Rocky Cocky, Echo Gecko, Toey Joey and By-Jingo Dingo. Although the lively text, filled with plenty of rhythm and rhyme and a touch of humour, is aimed for mainly the two to eight year old age group, the story is a delight for young and old alike. It’s an excellent choice for parents and carers to read with their kids and share time together.

Gina developed the story while studying for a Masters in Science Communication at the Centre for the Public Awareness of Science at the ANU. As part of her studies she participated in the highly successful Writing for Young People course run by the University of Canberra. Gina is a marine scientist by training with many years of experience in research and policy. She is especially passionate about marine science and the marine environment and has been the National President of the Australian Marine Sciences Association (AMSA). Another book is on its way – a story on the spotted handfish – Australia’s first marine fish to be listed as endangered.