Possum Magic 40th Anniversary Edition by Mem Fox and Julie Vivas

Title: Possum Magic 40^th Anniversary Edition

Author: Mem Fox and Julie Vivas

Genre: Fantasy

Publisher: Scholastic Australia

Published: 1^st May 2023

Format: Hardcover

Pages: 32

Price: $17.99

Synopsis: For 40 magical years Possum Magic has captivated and enchanted children and adults alike. Mem Fox’s lovable characters, little Hush and Grandma Poss, together with Julie Vivas’ exquisite illustrations, weave a story of pure magic. Continuously in print since it was first published by Omnibus Books in 1983, Possum Magic has been embraced as a timeless Australian tale.

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Ever since 1983, Possum Magic has charmed generations of young Australians. Grandma Poss has made Hush invisible with one of her spells, but one day, Hush says she wants to be visible again. But poor Grandma Poss can’t find the right spell. So, the pair sets off on a journey around Australia to find out what will make Hush visible again. They travel to each Australian capital city and eat iconic Australian food, whilst participating in a variety of Australian activities until they find out what will make Hush visible again. Join Grandma Poss and Hush on a magical journey around Australia in one of the most iconic books of the twentieth century.

Possum Magic has been part of my life ever since I was born, so it’s been one that I have always enjoyed reading at whatever age I have been. It is one of those books that most children experience at some stage in their lives, as it is often given as a baby gift – I know I made sure it was in my niece’s collection. I think this is one of those books that captures the beauty of Australian wildlife, the joy of Australian cuisine and the wonder of magic in the Australian bush and the coming together of urban Australia and the bush as Grandma Poss and Hush go on their exciting adventure.

I love classic picture books like this and when we can share them across generations, because it is something that can connect us – something shared that so many people have read. I think it is also a timeless story – it’s not set in any particular time or place, so a reader can imagine the story taking place at any time throughout Australia and keep an eye out for the adventurous possums as they search for the cure to make Hush visible again. And it celebrates classic Australian food like Minties and meat pies, lamingtons, and lollies – all things that Australian kids grow up with.

Possum Magic has broad appeal and one that I hope people continue to enjoy for the next forty years – it’s hard to believe it has been that long since it has been published. And having the fortieth anniversary edition is very special.