Mary Fowler: Zoo Trip

Mary Fowler: Zoo Trip by Mary Fowler is a lively junior fiction read that blends friendship, sport, and everyday school adventures in a way kids will instantly recognise and love. Set on an exciting class excursion to the zoo, it follows Maz (Mary) as she soaks up every moment—name tag on, favourite outfit ready—while her best friend Summer feels a bit less enthusiastic about getting close to the animals.

As Year 2 explores pademelons, kookaburras and crocodiles, Maz comes up with a thoughtful plan to tackle a problem and help the group stick together. The story celebrates kindness, confidence and being the sort of friend who notices what others need, without preaching.

Perfect for emerging readers aged 6–9 who enjoy Australian stories, school trips, gentle humour, and relatable characters, as well as fans of sporting role models.

Add it to your child’s next read-aloud pile or first chapter book stack and let the adventure begin.