Kaylee and Koru and the Long Way Home
by Alister Mathieson and Avery Mathieson

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This enchanting tale celebrates the extraordinary friendship between Kaylee, a strong and graceful Canada goose, and Koru, a curious and flightless brown kiwi bird. Kaylee hails from the Arctic tundra of Northern Canada, while Koru explores the lush kauri forests of New Zealand. Despite living in different parts of the world, the two birds embark on a remarkable journey of understanding, while sharing the wonders of their worlds. Paralleling their bond is the friendship of Mikki, an Inuit conservationist, and Maia, a Māori forest zoologist, who join forces to care for the animals they love. Together, these friendships highlight themes of diversity, connection, and the beauty of our natural world. This heartwarming journey blends adventure, culture, and nature, reminding readers that friendships have no boundaries, and the world is richer when we embrace its differences.

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Alister Mathieson This is my sixth children’s book, co-written with my imaginative and caring granddaughter, Avery. I wanted to create a children’s book that bridged my two homes: Canada, where I’ve happily lived for many years, and New Zealand, where I was born and spent my childhood and adolescence years. Through the adventures of Kaylee and Koru, I have shared some of the natural wonders of both places, the rich stories of their indigenous peoples and their connections to nature. I am very fortunate to have enjoyed wonderful and everlasting friendships with folks in both countries. We want to thank Michael “Uncle Mikey” for his editing help.

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Contributors

Author

Alister Mathieson

Author

Avery Mathieson

Illustrator

Funda