picture book - Michele Gierck

Hope is the thing - a picture book for all ages

Posted on October 25, 2023October 29, 2023 by Michele Gierck

This is a beautiful picture book for our times. Called Hope is the thing, it was inspired by Emily Dickinson's poem, "Hope" is the thing with feathers. Who said picture books are just for kids? All ages will be blown away by this beautifully written and illustrated book. Best to head down to your local bookshop or library, and get yourself a copy.

In 2015, my book about accompanying my mum with dementia, Fraying: Mum, memory loss, the medical maze and me was published. What I discovered, when mum's memory was changing, is that Mum and I loved looking at picture books together, often the garden or nature variety. Mum's earthly journey came to an end over a decade ago, but I'd bet she would have loved this book. The rhyme is as soulful as the illustrations.

If you have someone close to you with dementia, and you read this WITH them, I'd love to hear how it goes. You can contact me via the contact page on my website - www.michelegierck.com.au

The Joy of Learning

Posted on September 26, 2023October 29, 2023 by Michele Gierck

What a blast to read the story, Gladys and Stripey: two little fish on one BIG adventure, then take kids (along with their adults) down to a real fish ladder where scientist John answered questions and told a few of his own stories. Follow that with a make-shift fish ladder, watching kids moving the fish through it. (Big fish in the deeper part. Little ones stopping to rest.) And finish off with some clay modelling. Who would have thought the kids would craft not only fish, but a sculptured fish ladder! Oh, the joy of learning. It's brilliant. And all the time, the kids were just having fun. Adults too.

Where's the real fish ladder? Just behind the sign I'm pointing to, which explains all about Darebin Creek Fish Ladder. I'll include a pic in a future post.

Group of children and their adults, parents and grandparents, learning about a fish ladder, before exploring a real one.

To find out more about Gladys and Stripey: two little fish on one BIG adventure, go to Michele's website: www.michelegierck.com.au

Gladys and Stripey is OUT NOW

Posted on July 10, 2023October 29, 2023 by Michele Gierck

It's official. Gladys and Stripey: Two little fish on one BIG adventure is OUT NOW. Based on a threatened Australian native freshwater fish, the book is earning high praise from kids and their communities, nature lovers, ecologists, ecological activists and educators.

Here's a sample of fab comments:

‘Gladys and Stripey is a truly wonderful book.’ - Mark Lintermans, Associate Professor of Freshwater Fisheries Ecology and Management.
‘I loved it [Gladys and Stripey] and would love to stock it.’ - Alexa, Children's Book Buyer at Readings in Hawthorn.
‘I think the story is fantastic. Educational, informative and an enjoyable read.’ - Shane Giese, STEM Teacher and Deputy Principal.
‘Jeremy loves Gladys and Stripey. He told me to tell you it's the best book in the world!!’ - Mother of a young reader. This comment was sent with a photo of the young boy engrossed in the illustrations.

Thanks to all who have supported this project.

Get your copy or find out more, here.

Cover of Gladys and Stripey: Two little fish on one BIG adventure

Gladys and Stripey make their First Public Appearance

Posted on May 8, 2023October 29, 2023 by Michele Gierck

Gladys and Stripey made their First Big Public Appearance at the recent Native Fish Forum in Dubbo, 3 May - 5 May, prior to the official release of the book. They were warmly welcomed by the native fish community, from scientists to fishers. An image of the book cover even made it up on the big screen!

Author and publisher, Michele Gierck, says children (and adults) around Australia will soon have the chance to share in Gladys and Stripey's adventure!

ORDER YOUR COPY NOW at Michele Gierck's shop

Book Cover - Gladys and Stripey: two little fish on one BIG adventure

The book has educator notes (20 pages linked to the Victorian and Australian curriculums), online resources, and fun activities. For more information, see Michele's website (www.michelegierck.com.au) or REACH OUT to Michele.