Inspired by the 2000 Mozambique floods, ‘Limpopo Lullaby’ by Jane Jolly and illustrated by Dee Huxley tells the story of a family who are forced to seek refuge from raging flood waters in a giant milkwood tree. Tied to the branches with sheets for three long days and nights, Leroy, Amiee and their mum, Josette, pray the rain will stop. The text creates vivid imagery, conveying the emotions of the characters through the prolific uses of metaphors, similes and alliteration and is coupled with illustrations that skilfully portray the feelings of both people and animal alike. Will the Limpopo River prove too strong for the giant tree to withstand?
On the fourth day, Josette realises that her baby is making its way into the world. High in the tree, the baby is born. Thankfully, help arrives and the family are winched into a rescue helicopter. Taken to safety, the family welcome their new sister as the rain outside finally stops.
The beautifully told story is matched with striking illustrations by Dee Huxley. The pastel and coloured pencil artworks contrast dark tones of brown and black with the bright oranges, yellows and blues. Depicting the changing landscape as the flood waters rise, the artworks portray the people, lifestyle and environment of Mozambique. The shifting emotions of the central characters are depicted in the artworks as they carry the reader through the story. The sense of movement is evident in the flowing river, storming clouds, unrelenting rain and swirling sands.
Based on the true story of a women who made international headlines after giving birth while seeking refuge up a tree during the 2000 floods in Mozambique.
Picture Books for Older Readers
