By Matt Romania<\/p>\n
Author, singer-songwriter, and poet Vanessa Craven brings the enchantment of birdlife to young Moorabool listeners. Her picture songbook, \u2018Birds in My Tree: The Magic of Birds and the Joy of Singing,\u2019 presents the diverse world of birds she’s loved since her days in India.<\/p>\n
Growing up in the hill station of Missouri in India, surrounded by nature and wildlife, Vanessa\u2019s appreciation for nature blended seamlessly with her love for songwriting. \u201cLove for birds and my interest in songwriting has always been there,\u201d she recalls.<\/p>\n
Her book connects young readers to the charm of birds through music. “I envisioned a colourful book for kids with songs,” said Vanessa. The creation of the book required dedication and detail. <\/p>\n
\u201cI integrated photos and bird sounds, which was a challenge as I didn\u2019t initially have the bird recordings,\u201d she explained. Each birdcall is a live recording, offering an authentic experience.<\/p>\n
For Vanessa, this children\u2019s book journey goes beyond the pages of the printed book. It\u2019s about fostering a bond between children and the surrounding birdlife. \u201cIt\u2019s not just about selling a book. It’s about promoting awareness and appreciation for our avian friends,\u201d she told The Moorabool News.<\/p>\n
Aligning with the Aussie Bird Count 2023, Vanessa is partnering with Moorabool Libraries for two special sessions. Here, children aged 3 to 8 years (and older) will learn the songs and sounds of birds, followed by a bird-themed craft activity led by library staff. <\/p>\n
The Ballan Library session is on 14 October at 10 am, while Lerderderg Library hosts its event on 19 October at 10 am, specially tailored for 3 to 5-year-olds but open to all ages.<\/p>\n
\u2018Birds in My Tree\u2019 will be on sale at these sessions, or interested parties can explore and buy it online at https:\/\/www.acousticsessions.com.au. <\/p>\n
Vanessa emphasised the importance of connection. “It’s about helping kids identify and engage with bird sounds and behaviours. Each bird is unique, and sharing that joy is fulfilling,” she told The Moorabool News.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
By Matt Romania Author, singer-songwriter, and poet Vanessa Craven brings the enchantment of birdlife to young Moorabool listeners. Her picture songbook, \u2018Birds in My Tree: The Magic of Birds and the Joy of Singing,\u2019 presents the diverse world of birds she’s loved since her days in India. Growing up in the hill station of Missouri […]<\/p>\n