Bobbie, a wallaby, can jump, bounce, skip, and hop, but she cannot do the splits. Although her friends Koala, Wombat, and Possum tell her not to mind, she minds a lot. Bobbie keeps practicing until she succeeds—although initially there is a problem of getting up again. Soon she can do the splits perfectly and, with lots and lots of practice, her friends can, too. This story conveys gentle lessons on the importance of practice in achieving one’s goals and the value of friendship. The inclusion of native Australian plants adds to the setting. ca

Originally published by Working Title Press Australia, in 2006.