Possum Tragic: A Tale of Pumpkins & Plastic

Written and illustrated by Maree Coote

Melbournestyle Books 2026

Reviewed by Mia Macrossan

Maree Coote is a writer, designer, illustrator, photographer and publisher who loves to grapple with difficult ideas and present them in a form accessible to young people. She brings these to life in multiple platforms for multiple audiences. She publishes original books through her company Melbournestyle including her much awarded picture book, Azaria: A True History, also reviewed in StoryLinks. 

In Possum Tragic, a clever allusion to Mem Fox’s famous work, Coote takes aim at the annual consumer frenzy that is Halloween making an impassioned plea for good sense, for conservation of our unique Australian wildlife and environment.

It’s funny and appealing as it is told in verse from the point of view of a possum living in a tree near you, but nevertheless reveals the harm and destruction caused by humans indulging their love of plastic. ‘It’s plastic that’s scary, and the way it won’t rot. so remember each little life – take time to wonder, A murder most foul, by plastic, downunder,’ sums up the theme.

It’s a long poem so most suitable for readers aged 6 + although younger folk will enjoy some of the language and all the illustrations. These are detailed and delightful, combining a serious message with humourous Halloween motifs. This excellent classroom resource is ideal for exploring consumerism, plastics. festivals, and more. The stylish and stylised artwork is also worthy of study. The back matter includes information on Halloween, plastic, the island of plastic in the Pacific (about the same size as Queensland!) and a note about the classical paintings featured in the book.