Goannas are NOT Gawky

Can perseverance, kindness, and courage be enough to change the outcome of the biggest race in the bush?

Gabby Goanna is fed up. Dingo has teased him one too many times!

When a bush race is announced, Gabby is determined to prove everyone wrong by winning. But there's one problem-he's clumsy, awkward, and keeps tripping over his own feet. With Grandpa Goanna's patient guidance, Gabby learns that achieving a goal takes practice, determination, and resilience. He trains hard learning to climb, swim and run. As race day arrives, Gabby is ready to give it his all-but an unexpected turn of events changes everything.

Will Gabby win the race, or will he discover that being a true winner isn't always about coming first?

Set in the Australian bush and featuring original watercolour-style illustrations by the author, Goannas Are NOT Gawky is a heartwarming picture book that explores perseverance, resilience, kindness, empathy, and sportsmanship. Perfect for children aged 3-5, families, classrooms, and anyone looking for an engaging story that encourages meaningful conversations about teasing, friendship, and doing the right thing.

Inside you'll discover:

• Original watercolour-style illustrations created by the author.
• Full colour artwork on every page.
• Rhyming, rhythmic text that's enjoyable to read aloud.
• Beloved Australian animal characters, including a goanna, koala, emu, kangaroo, wombat, echidna, kookaburra, and dingo.
• Natural opportunities to discuss resilience, perseverance, courage, friendship, problem-solving, helping others, and winning (or not winning!).