How the Platypus Became: A story of transformation, friendship and finding your place in the world.

By Jonny Parry

Finalist - The Wishing Shelf Book Awards 2025

A playful, beautifully illustrated picture book imagining how the world's most extraordinary animal - the platypus- came to be.

Long ago, when the world was new, a cat, a fish, a duck and a frog each wished for the gifts the others had. Instead of letting jealousy get the better of them, they came together and set off to the Spark of Life, the place where every living thing began.

What they found changed everything. From its shining bill to its webbed feet, a brand-new animal emerged - one that was a little bit of everyone, and entirely itself.

How the Platypus Became is a fantastical picture book for children aged 4-8 about curiosity, friendship and finding your place in the world. Perfect for families, classrooms and anyone who has ever wondered how the platypus might have come to be.

For anyone who loves animal stories, imaginative adventures, or the magic of being yourself.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1068232900
• ISBN13: 9781068232909
• Release Date: December 2025
• Publisher: River & Sky Books
• Length: 36 Pages
• Weight: 0.31 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.1" x 11.0" x 8.5"
• Age Range: 3 to 8 years
• Grade Range: Preschool to Grade 3