The Terrakeet

Jo Van Der Borgh's debut, "The Terrakeet," introduces the Finlock family, who live a peaceful life by the Pincer Sea, overshadowed only by their fear of the mythical Terrakeet. When food runs scarce, the youngest Finlock embarks on a brave journey, confronting the creature they've always dreaded. This delightful story uses playful, invented language to explore themes of overcoming fear, challenging preconceived notions, and the joy of unexpected friendships. It's a heartwarming tale perfect for sparking conversations about empathy and not judging others based on rumors.

The youngest child of a simple fishing family discovers the truth about the faraway monster they fear in this delightful, imaginative debut. The Finlock family lives by the Pincer Sea, as peaceful as can be. They spend their days lounging and fishing for fronds to cook in their little copper kettles. It's an idyllic life, disturbed only by their great fear of the frimbulitic Terrakeet! Luckily, they've never seen this carnivorous beast, for it lives beyond Finlock Bay. But one day, when there are no fronds to be found, the youngest Finlock journeys in all directions to search for other delectables . . . and comes face-to-face with the dreaded creature! But would such a terrible monster cry about swarming bees? Would it ask if the lad had been fed? First-time author Jo van der Borgh uses playful invented language to craft a classic story of discovering the true nature of others and making unexpected friends, illustrated with utter charm by Jo Beasley.