The Black Cockatoo with one Feather Blue by Jodie McLeod illustrated by Eloise Short

If you begin with the title, you might anticipate this book is told in rhyme. "One Feather Blue" not one blue feather. Then turn the page and read the rhyming text:

"It was a magic feather, powering her wings. With her feather she could do incredible things."

BUT later we read

"When her feather disappeared, her dazzle did too. Her courage, her cleverness poof! - into the blue."

So, the cockatoo sets off to find her feather asking all the bush animals to help her - the wise emu, the brave kangaroo, and the kind quolls. This repetition means this book will be enjoyed by children aged 4+. And the happy ending will give everyone a smile.

The end notes in this book explain there are five different species of Black Cockatoo in Australia. They can have red, yellow, orange or white markings. The bird featured in this book is a female red-tailed black cockatoo. Currently four of the five species are under threat due to land clearing for agriculture, mining or logging. There is also the huge issue of bushfires.

The Cockatoo with one Feather Blue is a CBCA 2024 Notable title. Here are the comments by the judges:

A delightful narrative that explores themes of identity, friendship and kindness through anthropomorphic Australian characters that embark on an adventurous quest. From its  attractive cover and appealing silhouette endpapers, to its heart-warming resolution, this high-quality production is suited to younger readers. The undulating rhyme and almost musical rhythm flows wonderfully, with the clever use of alliteration and repetition adding to its read-aloud appeal. The highly accomplished illustrations, using muted and earthy tones, complement and enhance the written verse and facilitate a joyful celebration of 

the Australian bush setting. The final page of the book provides readers with further information about black cockatoos in Australia and urges readers to help save the habitat of black cockatoos.

Author webpage. Illustrator webpage. And here are some teaching notes. Or try this link.  This is not perfect but if you look at this video you can see inside this book. Read more about Australian cockatoos here. 

The themes of friendship, resilience and identity plus the connection with nature are ones that will easily transfer to either home or classroom setting and offer children much to consider.  Kids' Book Review

The book serves as both a calming read before naptime for young children, and an educational one for older children. Gracefully exploring themes such as iconic Australian birds, kindness, friendship, and letting go of things that no longer serve us, The black cockatoo with one feather blue is a timely message that we are greater than ourselves, and capable of truly incredible things. Reading Time

Companion books: