About the Author

Frané Lessac is an author and illustrator of international renown, having over forty children’s books published throughout the world. She was born in the USA and lived on the Caribbean island of Montserrat and London before moving to Australia. Frané has contributed her distinctive paintings to many critically acclaimed children’s picture books, including My Little Island, a Reading Rainbow feature book. Also, On the Same Day in March was named a Top Ten Science Books by ALA Booklist. Frané’s contribution to Amnesty International’s We Are All Born Free, celebrating the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, has been translated into more than 30 languages and was a USBBY Outstanding International Book. Her latest books include The Mayflower, written by Mark Greenwood and published by Holiday House, Midnight, to be published by Candlewick Press in 2015 and A is for Australia, published by Walker Books Australia in early 2015.

Reviews

A is for Australia is a good reminder that there are plenty of natural and man-made sights to enjoy without a passport. Frané Lessac’s picture book is not just a selection of pretty images but a ‘factastic tour’.
*Books+Publishing*

This is a delightful picture book that the whole family will be able to get into.
*Practical Parenting*

A is for Australia captures the visual diversity of our beautiful country. It is the perfect book to share with family and friends overseas
*Kids' Book Review*

This book is a joy to look at, read and learn from.
*Read and Write with Dale*

It is perfect for families to share (and create) their own memories and experiences, and for primary school children to utilise for their Australian studies.
*Boomerang Books Blog*

I really appreciated the thoughtful choice of facts for each topic
*Book Chook*

The rich and colourful gouache illustrations extend the text with native plants and animals and lots of visual details. Recommended.
*Pinerolo Newsletter*

The hero of this informative picture book is Lessac's brightly coloured, naïve illustrations, which bring each place to life, showcasing not just their topography and flora and fauna, but also a bevy of exuberant people enjoying what each destination has to offer. This is an excellent contribution to both the alphabet genre and to picture books about Australia's many natural and man-made attractions.
*Sydney Morning Herald*

I am tempted to describe A is for Australia as an alphabetical extravaganza, but while Frané Lessac’s bold illustrations and attention to detail certainly are extravagant, she has also created a guide to Australia - its uniqueness and diversity - in a way that makes the information accessible to all readers, regardless of age
*Creative Kids Tales*

Australian picture books feature
*Oh Creative Day*

Craft Activity
*Oh Creative Day*

Australia Day List
*Kids' Book Review*

This book will make enjoyable reading for a global audience of all ages with its bright, colourful illustrations and range of information presented.
*Magpies Magazine*