Possum Magic by Mem Fox

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Fox, Mem. 1983. Possum Magic. Ill. by Julie Vivas. San Diego: Gulliver Books. ISBN 0152005722

PLOT SUMMARY
This magical story of love contains two Australian possums. To protect her grandchild, Hush, from predators, "Grandma Poss"casts an invisibility spell. This works well until Hush decides its time to reverse the spell. Both possums have a grand time following the coast of Australia in search of the magic ingredient needed to remove the invisibility spell from Hush.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS
This international book contains cultural markers identifying it as an Australian story. The characters name of Grandma Poss, is the shortened version used in Australia when speaking of possums. The names of Australian foods used throughout the story require a Glossary of Australian terms to help the reader identify the unfamiliar language used in Australia to name cookies, candies, sandwiches, desserts and a supper dish of fish. The single and double paged spread watercolor paintings of the animals native to Australia enrich the text with companion visuals.

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

Review from Booklist: "Gr. 1-4. Soft watercolor vignettes and a beautifully crafted, heartwarming story feature Grandma Poss, who renders young Hush invisible to save him from dangers in the Australian bush. To reverse the magic, the two travel the country nibbling various morsels. (Published in the U.S. by Abingdon.)"

Review from School Library Journal: "PreS-Gr 2 Grandma Poss uses bush magic to make Hush invisible, but when Hush wants to see herself again, Grandma can't remember which particular Australian food is needed to reverse the spell. ... Although the characters, locales, and vocabulary are thoroughly Australian, Possum Magic has universal appeal. Fox chooses her words carefully, making readers believe that certain foods just might be magical. Vivas uses a variety of techniques, including splatter painting and washes to create full- and double-page watercolor illustrations which complement the text and will entrance readers. A perfect choice for storytimes, but also useful for curriculum enrichment, thanks to a simplified map and glossary. Jeanette Larson, Mesquite Public Library, Tex."

CONNECTIONS
*Introduce students to maps using Australian map of the possums journey.
*Celebrate cultures by preparing foods mentioned in the book and relating them to similar foods used by the children in the U. S.
*Celebrate author Mem Fox, by reading her other stories.
*Investigate and prepare reports of Australian animals mentioned in Mem Fox's book.
*Use as story connection for unit on Families.