This is a collection of twenty-four glorious poems told in ‘Aussie’ talk.

Fang from Yang Yawn sets the tone for just plain divertissement told through the eyes of the pup, “Pat the swagman, retired of late. He found me by the river, a pup… I’m famous like mum, a dog called Skye” and a surprise ending to the ode sure to tickle the funny bone!

The Kanga Man, (Koala) Bear Essentials!, and Gold Fever continue the illustrious work. I particularly liked the tenet presented in Snow “Tho’ Snow’s been dead, a hundred years, his spirit still lives on coz His great grandson, with hair like Snow, the mountain race has won.” The Drover’s Missus speaks of the sturdiness of women.

Blowies! We may not call ‘em by this name, but the poem leaves little doubt as to what they are. Av-a-go-yer-Mug! Made me chuckle. Full as a Boot? Presents a delightful glance at Santa. Leaps and Bounds, Boomerangs, The Swagman, and The Hunter are next. Ow-ya-goin’? Presents a little different theme, “Now the Aussie and the Pom Were wetting the grandson’s head!”

Digger is a moving tale of a former soldier, Outback Dunny takes only a moment to realize exactly what the poem is about even though few of us here have seen or used, nor call by this name! Bunyip!, Surfer, and the poignant little ditty Ned appear just before three fun odes to Australian critters. Wombats, Snake!, and Kookaburra are fun to read.

True Blue “ ‘Drink up, put hairs on ya chest!’ He was an Aussie bloke True Blue!” and Jack ‘n Jillaroo afford a nice ending to the work. Author Laing proves her skill as a writer with this delightful collection of poetry.

There is just the right mix of critters, circumstances and introspection characteristic of Australia. Laing is able to take the most simple of critters or circumstances and weave a marvelous little anecdote told in verse around it. While writer Laing used idiom native to her homeland and discusses domains indicative of the continent; the work is just as enjoyable when read by a non Aussie. Each of the poems is a true delight.

This is a fun collection of buoyant, spirited poetry sure to pique the interest of the most discerning reader who is looking for a nice afternoon’s read.

This is not a deep dreary tome filled with stark odes, but is rather a work filled with uplifting easy to read, easy to enjoy works meant to be enjoyed and enjoyed again.

Reviewed by: molly martin