When young JB and Rooney visit their grandparents’ farm, they’re in for more than just a country day trip. While helping Grandpa collect firewood in the Gum Tree Paddock, they spot a goanna and launch into a chat about all the creatures that call the bush their home. Grandpa shares how he carefully tends to the paddock, creating a sanctuary for native wildlife.
Back at the house after lunch, Grandpa builds a bird nesting box and attaches it to the stump of a freshly cut tree, sparking Rooney’s curiosity. With Nana’s Nestbox Book in hand, Rooney gets an idea: maybe his cousin Stan, who’s just started woodworking at school, could help build more nest boxes. With encouragement from Stan’s mom, Aunt Jo, they gather supplies, and soon Stan’s woodwork class jumps in too, turning the project into a community effort.
The Little Homes On Honeypatch culminates with a heartwarming day of hanging nest boxes on trees and sharing a creekside picnic, showing how small acts of care can make a big difference for nature.
Joy Stone was raised on a small dairy farm and developed a early love for nature, as she observed the impact of land clearing on native wildlife. Joy was a teacher before focusing on family and later worked in her in her local library hosting preschool story times. Now retired, Joy is dedicated to inspiring environmental awareness through her writing.
Nandina Vines is a passionate illustrator based in the heart of the Hunter Valley in Australia where the lush landscapes and diverse wildlife inspire her every stroke. With a keen eye for detail and a deep love for nature, Nandina specialises in bringing animals to life through her vibrant illustrations. When she’s not illustrating, Nandina enjoys exploring bush walking with her dogs, acrylic painting and spending time with family.
* Honey Patch – a 40-acre hobby farm in Central Victoria that author Joy Stone called home for a number of years – provides the backdrop for the story of two boys who come to visit their Grandpa and Nana. JB and his younger brother Rooney learn all about the animals that live on Honey Patch, before getting inspired after watching their Grandpa build a bird nesting box.
* This wonderfully illustrated book offers a fresh take on taking care of local flora and fauna especially when teaching young children.
* For primary school children and their families. One of the aims of the book is to encourage readers to protect wild spaces and have a stronger commitment to conservation.
* Readers are also provided with instructions on how to build their own rosella nesting boxes.
