This This Dog - Ko Tenei Kuri: 2021

Description

This Dog (Ko Tenei Kuri) knows what it takes to be a best friend, and despite their obvious differences, he's fine with being a friend to the clever and opportunistic blackbird that resides in his yard. Ko Tenei Kuri exhibits the traits that underpin a true, strong and non-judgmental friendship: unconditional love, acceptance, trust and loyalty. "This Dog that is my dog" consistently puts the comfort, safety and interests of Manu Pango (Blackbird) ahead of his own, choosing to be a faithful and steadfast friend; a loyal protector from That Cat (Tera Ngeru) and a one-dog audience patiently listening to endless performances of Blackbird's arias.

Author, Ian Munro, is a retired educator (secondary and tertiary levels). He is a published author who has written a weekly column for the Otago Daily Times since 1999. This Dog - Ko Tenei Kuri is his first foray into writing for young children. Illustrator, Rebecca Utting, is a User Experience designer (UX designer) and digital illustrator with a background in animation, learning design, voice acting, web development, videography, and carnival sideshows. This Dog - Ko Tenei Kuri is her first children's picture book. Translator (Maori), Piripi Walker (Ngati Raukawa) is a Victoria University graduate and Director of Language Studies at Te Wananga o Raukawa. He translates for health and educational groups, Maori and non-Maori organisations, and has translated a range of children's books, including Margaret Mahy's He Raiona i roto i nga Otaota - A Lion in the Meadow.