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Hunwick's Egg
When a mysterious egg appears outside Hunwick's burrow after a terrible storm, no one knows what to do with it. And when it doesn't hatch right away, everyone is even more bewildered. Everyone, that is, but Hunwick. For Hunwick understands the egg. It is his friend. And he is the only one who knows its secret.
From the author and illustrator of the modern classic Koala Lou, here is a moving tale of loneliness, friendship, and most of all, the power the imagination has to change the way we see the world.
(20050301)
From the author and illustrator of the modern classic Koala Lou, here is a moving tale of loneliness, friendship, and most of all, the power the imagination has to change the way we see the world.
(20050301)
32 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2005
2 people are currently reading
140 people want to read
About the author
Mem Fox
128 books425 followersMerrion Frances Fox is an Australian writer of children's books and an educationalist specialising in literacy. Fox has been semi-retired since 1996, but she still gives seminars and lives in Adelaide, South Australia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
January 14, 2009
This story follows the rather lonely life of Hunwick, a eldery bilby. After a large storm Hunwick finds an egg outside his burrow, and he adopts it. After a while he realises that the egg is never going to hatch and that it is in fact a rock that is shaped and coloured like an egg. Despite coming to this realisation he continues to treat the rock as an egg.
I find the story incredibly depressing - which is the main reason for the low two star rating.
The illustrations of Australian wildlife in this book is truely amazing.
Mem Fox and Pamela Lofts worked together previously on Koala Lou, which I enjoyed more.
Hunwick is named after John Hunwick, a bilby researcher and long-time advocate. Mem was trying to write an Easter book - and was inspired by the campaign in Australia to replace the Easter Bunny with the Easter Bilby, due to the extensive environmental damage done by rabbits. See this interview for more information. For see here for more information on the Easter Bilby. And for the original book that linked Easter with the Bilby see Billy the Aussie Easter Bilby by Rose-Marie Dusting published in 1979.
I find the story incredibly depressing - which is the main reason for the low two star rating.
The illustrations of Australian wildlife in this book is truely amazing.
Mem Fox and Pamela Lofts worked together previously on Koala Lou, which I enjoyed more.
Hunwick is named after John Hunwick, a bilby researcher and long-time advocate. Mem was trying to write an Easter book - and was inspired by the campaign in Australia to replace the Easter Bunny with the Easter Bilby, due to the extensive environmental damage done by rabbits. See this interview for more information. For see here for more information on the Easter Bilby. And for the original book that linked Easter with the Bilby see Billy the Aussie Easter Bilby by Rose-Marie Dusting published in 1979.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 4, 2019
I can imagine a young child would be confused by the ending of this picture book. Hunwick finds what appears to be an egg outside his burrow so he takes care of it most gently and waits eagerly to see it hatch. Well, it doesn't hatch! Is it a rock? An egg that was a dud? Disappointed with the ending!
December 24, 2018
I loved the illustrations in this book, with a wide variety of Aussie animals, however, the story is mild. A bilby finds an egg following a storm, and looks after it for some time. The egg never hatches and the bilby befriends it, knowing it is a stone shaped like an egg (but is it?).
July 30, 2014
Book 13, Day 13 - Mini Family Classics from News Limited.
Author: Mem Fox
Illustrator: Pamela Lofts
First Published: 2005
I'll admit I find some of Mem Fox's books a little more miss than hit. I admire her push for reading literacy, and I love Possum Magic for it's Australian-ness. But I feel some rely more on the beautiful illustrations than the words. They disappoint. The fact Fox (or her publisher) can find brilliant collaborators doesn't completely make up for a lacklustre narrative.
However, "Hunwick's Egg" appeals on a number of levels. The beautiful Australian illustrations posed in a descriptive, almost photo-realistic manner demonstrate an understanding and love for the landscape. The story itself of a bilby who cares for an inanimate object (egg) talks to the reader of loneliness, friendship, and imaginary friends.
Fox talks about the poignant loneliness of Hunwick and his Egg, but also how different children read it for what they need; my daughter saw the caring of the neighbours and friends as encouraging and sweet, and Hunwick loving his egg as she does her teddy. She found importance in being alone in your head with an object who just listens.
What is it Johnson said? A writer only begins a book. A reader finishes it. Children are just as able to take what they need from a book as the adults who write and read them.
Pamela Lofts
A challenge of children's books is to marry the word literacy with a visual literacy - a challenge Pamela Lofts embraced. In "Hunwick's Egg", Lofts takes her love and fine, descriptive illustrative knowledge of the plants, animals, insects and landscape of Australia and incorporates them into the illustrations. Based outside Alice Springs, in "Hunwick's Egg" she focused on the desert region. I wish I knew more about plants so I could name them, but the animals include the Thorny devil Lizard, the dunnart, and the classic echidna.
http://www.alicespringsnews.com.au/20...
On Reading
Mem Fox on making books as attractive as the tv.
1. Have books in the home.
2. Give children their own book space/shelf, and their own books.
3. Have a variety of reading material.
4. Let children read what interests them.
5. You should read, too! Demonstrate the importance of reading by reading.
6. Children's books should be beautiful.
7. Read to your child and enjoy it.
8. Give children time to read.
http://www.memfox.com/flashing-screen...
Age (taking into account comprehension, concentration, language):
Read aloud - 3+ (although the melody of loneliness may make parents' wary)
Read yourself - 6+ (a comfortable read)
(ISBN 9327014001276)
Author: Mem Fox
Illustrator: Pamela Lofts
First Published: 2005
I'll admit I find some of Mem Fox's books a little more miss than hit. I admire her push for reading literacy, and I love Possum Magic for it's Australian-ness. But I feel some rely more on the beautiful illustrations than the words. They disappoint. The fact Fox (or her publisher) can find brilliant collaborators doesn't completely make up for a lacklustre narrative.
However, "Hunwick's Egg" appeals on a number of levels. The beautiful Australian illustrations posed in a descriptive, almost photo-realistic manner demonstrate an understanding and love for the landscape. The story itself of a bilby who cares for an inanimate object (egg) talks to the reader of loneliness, friendship, and imaginary friends.
Fox talks about the poignant loneliness of Hunwick and his Egg, but also how different children read it for what they need; my daughter saw the caring of the neighbours and friends as encouraging and sweet, and Hunwick loving his egg as she does her teddy. She found importance in being alone in your head with an object who just listens.
What is it Johnson said? A writer only begins a book. A reader finishes it. Children are just as able to take what they need from a book as the adults who write and read them.
Pamela Lofts
A challenge of children's books is to marry the word literacy with a visual literacy - a challenge Pamela Lofts embraced. In "Hunwick's Egg", Lofts takes her love and fine, descriptive illustrative knowledge of the plants, animals, insects and landscape of Australia and incorporates them into the illustrations. Based outside Alice Springs, in "Hunwick's Egg" she focused on the desert region. I wish I knew more about plants so I could name them, but the animals include the Thorny devil Lizard, the dunnart, and the classic echidna.
http://www.alicespringsnews.com.au/20...
On Reading
Mem Fox on making books as attractive as the tv.
1. Have books in the home.
2. Give children their own book space/shelf, and their own books.
3. Have a variety of reading material.
4. Let children read what interests them.
5. You should read, too! Demonstrate the importance of reading by reading.
6. Children's books should be beautiful.
7. Read to your child and enjoy it.
8. Give children time to read.
http://www.memfox.com/flashing-screen...
Age (taking into account comprehension, concentration, language):
Read aloud - 3+ (although the melody of loneliness may make parents' wary)
Read yourself - 6+ (a comfortable read)
(ISBN 9327014001276)
January 19, 2010
"Hunwick's Egg" is a cute story about an old, desert-dwelling bandicoot who finds an egg-shaped rock after a devastating storm and, thinking at first that it is an egg and needs looking after, takes it in, talks to it, tells it his thoughts and dreams, and appreciates its silent companionship. The egg never hatches. All of the bandicoot's desert friends feel sorry for the bandicoot, feeling that he is a fool and will be very disappointed. Yet, the bandicoot realizes that the egg is really a rock and still appreciates its beauty and its ability to remain a silent companion and confidant while he lives otherwise alone in his burrow. The story is a positive allegory for a peaceful old age, when you find yourself alone, wishing to care for someone, with naysayers for neighbors who don't offer their companionship or positive attention, and you can still find peace and comfort in nature, beauty, stillness and your thoughts. Young readers may not fully understand this allegory, but on their level they understand that the bandicoot needed comfort, needed to take charge of his situation after his desert world changed, and he found this comfort in nurturing the potential life in an egg. Recommended for ages 3-7.
June 28, 2014
I didn't have any preconceived expectations when reading this tonight, despite reading numerous titles by the author previously. This one holds its own when held up alongside her other classics. Hunwick is likeable, as are most of his friends - though, some are a little on the dry side. I felt the plot twist was terribly predicable, and this is my one big disappointment. Apparently, if you are 4 and 6 years old this then the plot twist is not so expected (especially if you introduce them to it as bed time!) and there is an element of surprise to be had - thankfully, not enough produce that much loved 'second wind' we all love to go through at 8:30pm on a Saturday night...
All in all, a great read for a tired and busy young mind who is ready for a nice story of friendship before bed. If you are after a gripping tale that leaves you hanging, then this is not for you... Maybe try Ken Follett's, The Pillars of the Earth, which is too epic for any adequate review (I know, I just tried, literally, before this one and gave up - just read it!).
All in all, a great read for a tired and busy young mind who is ready for a nice story of friendship before bed. If you are after a gripping tale that leaves you hanging, then this is not for you... Maybe try Ken Follett's, The Pillars of the Earth, which is too epic for any adequate review (I know, I just tried, literally, before this one and gave up - just read it!).
July 15, 2009
Amidst mauve and pink Australian sunsets, this lyrically told and beautifully illustrated tale reminds us of the pleasures of simply loving.
You can listen in on our chat about this book on our Just One More Book! Children's Book Podcast.
Other books mentioned:
Elizabeti’s Doll
We’d love to hear your thoughts on a favourite children’s book. Leave a voice message on our JOMB listener hotline, +1-206-350-6487, so we can include your audio in our show
You can listen in on our chat about this book on our Just One More Book! Children's Book Podcast.
Other books mentioned:
Elizabeti’s Doll
We’d love to hear your thoughts on a favourite children’s book. Leave a voice message on our JOMB listener hotline, +1-206-350-6487, so we can include your audio in our show
February 2, 2023
Hunwick the bilby found an egg outside his burrow, after a storm.
'It needs a home,' Cockatoo said.
'Then I'll give it one. You'll be safe with me,' Hunwick said.
He was fond of the egg and wondered what would happen when it hatched.
Hunwick talked to the egg, it listened in respectful silence.
Neither did it hatch.
He covered it when he went to get food. And waved goodbye although it didn't wave back.
Neither did it hatch.
He cuddled it and kept it warm in his burrow as days went by.
Neither did it hatch.
The other animals said 'poor Hunwick, the egg will never hatch.'
Hunwick had guessed the secret of the egg, it was a stone and would never hatch.
But he didn't mind. 'I love it as it is.'
This is a delightfully illustrated picture book, and Mem Fox has given this bilby a friend to always love. This will be a gift for the littlies in my family.
'It needs a home,' Cockatoo said.
'Then I'll give it one. You'll be safe with me,' Hunwick said.
He was fond of the egg and wondered what would happen when it hatched.
Hunwick talked to the egg, it listened in respectful silence.
Neither did it hatch.
He covered it when he went to get food. And waved goodbye although it didn't wave back.
Neither did it hatch.
He cuddled it and kept it warm in his burrow as days went by.
Neither did it hatch.
The other animals said 'poor Hunwick, the egg will never hatch.'
Hunwick had guessed the secret of the egg, it was a stone and would never hatch.
But he didn't mind. 'I love it as it is.'
This is a delightfully illustrated picture book, and Mem Fox has given this bilby a friend to always love. This will be a gift for the littlies in my family.
October 23, 2025
This is a beautiful story that had an ending that is not the happily ever after that kids books generally have - or is it?
Whatever it is it’s a great talking point with children (on a lot of different levels/subjects) as well as being an achingly beautiful story of a bilby who finds an egg that is actually a rock.
Beautifully illustrated, it’s one of my favourite children’s books and one we will definitely hold on to.
Whatever it is it’s a great talking point with children (on a lot of different levels/subjects) as well as being an achingly beautiful story of a bilby who finds an egg that is actually a rock.
Beautifully illustrated, it’s one of my favourite children’s books and one we will definitely hold on to.
October 6, 2019
After a fierce storm passes through, a mysterious egg is found by Hunwick the bandiccoot outside of his burrow. No one knows where it came from or who it belongs to. Hunwick decides to care for it until it hatches. But it never hatches, but Hunwick has become attached to it as a friend, and keeps the secret of the egg to himself.
March 23, 2023
Hunwick is the only one who knows the secret of this mysterious egg?
What a fascinating premise for this picture book! Especially since, by now, I've come to admire and trust books by the great Mem Fox.
As for you, artist Pamela Lofts, I'm enthralled by your drawing of the old bandicoot... and so much else.
That surprise ending really did surprise me. Such a lovely treat of a book!
What a fascinating premise for this picture book! Especially since, by now, I've come to admire and trust books by the great Mem Fox.
As for you, artist Pamela Lofts, I'm enthralled by your drawing of the old bandicoot... and so much else.
That surprise ending really did surprise me. Such a lovely treat of a book!
April 27, 2020
I liked this book! I think this book does a good job at showing love,loyalty,and friendship. I really loved how Hunwick remained loyal to his egg despite his friends wanting the egg to change. This is a good book to teach kids appreciation and love.
March 25, 2021
Mem Fox, oh Mem Fox. My kids loved the animals that don’t show up regularly in children’s books.
The concept is deep and meaningful for adults and children alike. I don’t want to give it away.
Highly recommended for animal lovers of all ages.
The concept is deep and meaningful for adults and children alike. I don’t want to give it away.
Highly recommended for animal lovers of all ages.
September 3, 2017
I really enjoyed the story and the pictures! This book had a wonderful twist near the end.
December 20, 2017
"I love it as it is." Beautiful book about being loyal and true and friendship.
March 13, 2018
Cute story about a bandicoot who befriends an egg, which turns out not to be an egg at all. 5+
February 21, 2020
beautiful illustrations of super cool animals, and also I really love the story.
March 1, 2020
The Australian foliage and wildlife illustrations are so beautiful.
April 14, 2020
This book is an absolute treasure. Really love the beautiful (and unexpected message) and also the stunning pictures.
September 18, 2020
Disappointing ending, gorgeous art.
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January 10, 2022BookTree
November 20, 2023
Hunwick finds an egg and decides to take care of it but the egg never hatches. This book is endearing because other animals are concerned but Hunwick is grateful for the egg companion.
March 11, 2024
beautiful illustrations and details that can be pointed out to the child you’re reading to
January 12, 2020
Hunwick loves his egg and doesn't care what other's think or say. The beauty in this book, both words and art, made my heart sing.
November 29, 2014
Oh, this was just adorable :) I got a copy through the Herald Sun's mini-books promotion, along with Animalia, Uno's Garden, and Koala Lou - I was going to JUST get Animalia, the first one, but then I decided I wanted Uno's Garden too since it's also Graeme Base and I didn't know it, and ten I decided I also needed the two Mem Fox ones as well... but that's it, I'm just collecting the really Aussie ones :) This was just a gorgeous story and I loved the illustrations! I should have gotten two copies to send one to Rachel for when Martha's a little older. (OR I could be a super aunty and send her my own copy...)
(ETA: I've just read about a dozen reviews of this which call Hunwick a bandicoot, and that's making me wonder if there was a different version of this for the foreign market or something? Because he's definitely a bilby in mine, and the cover image shows a bilby not a bandicoot too! You can tell by the massive ears :D)
Xmas 2014 - I AM INDEED A SUPER AUNTY! Gifted to Martha.
(ETA: I've just read about a dozen reviews of this which call Hunwick a bandicoot, and that's making me wonder if there was a different version of this for the foreign market or something? Because he's definitely a bilby in mine, and the cover image shows a bilby not a bandicoot too! You can tell by the massive ears :D)
Xmas 2014 - I AM INDEED A SUPER AUNTY! Gifted to Martha.
August 16, 2011
A desert-dwelling bandicoot (A what? Well, yes, an Australian terrestrial marsupial as I discovered) finds an egg outside its borrow. All the animals wonder about it, but our funny looking bandicoot, called Hunwick, decides to take care of it. Time passes and it never hatches. Everyone wonders what is wrong with it, but Hunwick "understands" the egg and calls it his friend. As it turns out, the egg is perfectly shaped rock. Big surprise, I didn't expect that!
The illustrations have lots of character. I liked the story, but was a bit deflated when I discovered the egg was just a rock.
The illustrations have lots of character. I liked the story, but was a bit deflated when I discovered the egg was just a rock.
October 31, 2012
Read at a Pre-K Class Visit on 6/16/11: http://storytimesecrets.blogspot.com/...
Read at Tales for Fours and Fives on 6/23/11: http://storytimesecrets.blogspot.com/...
Read at After School Story Time on 1/26/12: http://storytimesecrets.blogspot.com/...
Read at Circle Time on 7/24/12: http://storytimesecrets.blogspot.com/...
Read at Tales for Fours and Fives on 6/23/11: http://storytimesecrets.blogspot.com/...
Read at After School Story Time on 1/26/12: http://storytimesecrets.blogspot.com/...
Read at Circle Time on 7/24/12: http://storytimesecrets.blogspot.com/...
October 10, 2012
Reread today to my class. Love this book!
We fell hard for Hunwick, the little bandicoot who happened upon a very curious egg and fell quickly in love. Hunwick’s egg never hatched although it provided him with companionship, faith and an important secret. Yes, he realized his egg was not an egg at all but a perfectly shaped stone and he loved it all the more. This book is beyond endearing and my heart lifts just holding it.
We fell hard for Hunwick, the little bandicoot who happened upon a very curious egg and fell quickly in love. Hunwick’s egg never hatched although it provided him with companionship, faith and an important secret. Yes, he realized his egg was not an egg at all but a perfectly shaped stone and he loved it all the more. This book is beyond endearing and my heart lifts just holding it.
November 20, 2009
Fox and Loftus made a brilliant pairing on Koala Lou, but here the artwork rises above the story. The title character, a rabbit-eared bandicoot, is so appealing that primary grade children will want one as a pet. The good news for parents and teachers is that it's an endangered species, so kids will have to be content with helping to save it.
July 26, 2016
I loved Hunwick the Bandicoot and his egg. And Pamela Loft's illustrations are as gorgeous as always. This children's story was so touching and tender..a wonderful opportunity for discussion after reading. I confess a love of Mem Fox's books--although not all of them appeal. Other favourites are Possum Magic and Wilfred Gordon McDonald Partridge
Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews