Meet Wonky the whale – our newest member of the Story Animals family

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Wonky’s Yarn is the latest book in our Story Animals series. It’s a story about staying on track and highlights the need for children to have strong people in their lives.
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Photo of Communities Director General Mike Rowe speaking at the Wonky's Yarn launch event

A whale named Wonky is the newest member of the Story Animals family, a Department of Communities program supporting meaningful connection between children in care, and their care teams to manage ‘tough conversations’.

Wonky’s Yarn is the twelfth book in the series which feature Australian animals that are brought to life through handmade fabric characters, made by various groups and individuals across WA.

Using the metaphor of whale migration, Wonky’s Yarn can help start conversations about how distractions impact on the ability to ‘hear’ and reminds the reader that paying attention to small details can prevent things from escalating into big problems.

Menang Elder Aunty Eliza Woods worked closely with the authors to develop the book and was joined by fellow Elders, Communities staff, service providers, carers and children for the official WA launch of Wonky’s Yarn at Hillview Intercultural Community Centre in Bentley.

Group photo of the team behind the Wonky's Yarn book

Director of the Story Animals program and author/illustrator Verity Roennfeldt said the resources were used across WA.

“Story Animals offer a way for child protection workers, support services and schools to teach protective behaviours and strengthen literacy.

“They can be used in a culturally safe way to have discussions with, and for, children in care.”

Visit our Story Animals page for more information about yarn books.