This graphic novel is brimming with fascinating details, beginning with the front endpapers. Narrated by 12-year-old Miri, we learn about her community, which includes her next-door neighbour Wingo, his extended family, and an assortment of native animals.

Wingo’s family nurture an emu egg that had been abandoned and when it hatches, Miri and the emu build a strong connection. The story is also about breaking down barriers in communities, beautifully depicted by the fence between the houses that is slowly taken down and repurposed. Set on Djaara Country in Western Victoria, it also includes some Djaara language and cultural practices, with permission from local elders.

Leaf-light is an utterly spellbinding graphic novel that is highly descriptive of our native flora and fauna, as well as being a delightful story of a community working together in harmony. It will be treasured by nature lovers aged 6+.