Wombat Underground

Wombat Underground: A Wildfire Survival Story
By Sarah L. Thomson, illustrated by Charles Santoso

Ages: 4-8
Fiction
Little, Brown, and Co.
January 2022

“Deep in the dirt, under the hill” is where Wombat digs and digs to make his burrow. When wildfire sweeps across the Australian landscape, Wombat is safe and snoring underground while other animals frantically race to find shelter. When danger threatens, will Wombat allow others into the cave “he carved to be all his own”? A dramatic story of wildlife in peril leads to a question of what we owe to others and to the earth. Lyrical text, lush art, and a tender ending will keep readers engaged.

Awards and Accolades
“With a solid dose of drama and danger, as well as explanations at the end of the book about fires and Australian wildlife, this story presents a real-life example of how communities, both wild and human, are more resilient when they work together.”
—Outside Magazine

“Richly poetic language….A charming introduction to creatures native to Australia and a wake-up call to care for our planet.”
–Kirkus

“Thomson’s spare text is lyrical and elegant, and Santoso’s gorgeous illustrations enhance the story.”
–Booklist