Koala Lou
By Mem Fox
The Story
A young koala, feeling overlooked as her family grows, enters the Bush Olympics determined to win an event and win back her mother's love in one triumphant swoop.
Why It's Special
For the kid who worries about being loved just as much once a new brother or sister comes along, Koala Lou's story lands right in the heart.
- Big idea: A parent's love was never something you had to earn or compete for — it was there all along.
- Vibes: Tender, gently funny, and warmly reassuring, with the earnest energy of a big competition.
Perfect For Kids Who
- are working on adjusting to a new sibling
- respond well to stories about being loved unconditionally
- enjoy stories with a big competition or event
- like to talk about feelings of being left out
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story & problem-solving: Why did Koala Lou decide that winning the Bush Olympics would help her mother love her?
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think Koala Lou felt when her mother got too busy to tell her she loved her?
- Real-life connection: Have you ever felt like you needed to do something big to get noticed?
- Imagination: If you were in the Bush Olympics, which event would you want to try?
- Big idea: Do you think you have to win something to be loved? Why or why not?
