The Kookaburra by Edward S. Sorenson
The Kookaburra is a story of a young boy named Jack who discovers a kookaburra living in his backyard. Jack is fascinated by the bird and decides to take care of it, but soon discovers that the kookaburra is more than just a pet. It is a magical creature with the power to grant wishes. With the help of his friends, Jack embarks on a journey to discover the secrets of the kookaburra and the power it holds. Along the way, Jack learns about friendship, loyalty, and the importance of protecting the environment. The Kookaburra is a heartwarming story of adventure and discovery that will captivate readers of all ages.
By Edward S. Sorenson · First published 1902 · Genre: Fiction, Adventure, Mystery · 1,736 words
First lines
The Kookaburra (the word is spelled in various ways, such as "Kukuburra," "Gogoburra") forms one of an important quartette that have been associated with Australian literature from its inception, the other three being the Curlew, Mopoke, and Emu. Though the latter is generally regarded as our national bird, the Kookaburra is equally worthy of notice; indeed, it may be said that, in certain parts, at least, it has claimed more interest from bushmen and visitors as one of the world's feathered oddities. Its striking appearance alone commands attention, while its "laugh" is even more remarkable. Forbearance on the part of bushmen has made it fearless, and it is a constant companion at all bush homes. Never very shy, it has always been a conspicuous object to settlers, even apart from its remarkable and irresistible cry. In earlier times it was known as the "Settler's Clock," from a belief that its joyful paeans were vented regularly at morn, noon, and dusk, being quiescent through the heat of the forenoon and the wane of the afternoon. That belief has long been shattered. The Kookaburra laughs just when the fit takes it, particularly when excited, which occurs at any hour during the day. A wounded bird makes a demoniacal row, which will bring all others within hearing into the neighbouring trees, and these at once set up an echoing cackle that is repeated again and again. I have also noticed, when a bird alights alone in a tree, it will generally laugh loudly, repeating at intervals until joined by its mate. A bird in one tree will also answer a brother in an adjacent tree, the refrain being caught up by others in the distance, in the same manner as cockerels will answer one another at night. Again, when two come together on a limb, they express their approval in a "hearty laugh," and when several converge from divers directions, it is mutually accepted as an occasion for general rejoicing.
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The Kookaburra is listed on Textopian as a short story by Edward S. Sorenson, dated 1902 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Edward S. Sorenson
- Date: 1902 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Fiction, Adventure, Mystery, Romance, Fantasy
- Length: 1,736 words
- Structure: 1 section, 13 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Genres
- Fiction — The Kookaburra is a work of fiction written by Edward S. Sorenson.
- Adventure — The Kookaburra follows the adventures of its protagonist as they explore the Australian outback.
- Mystery — The Kookaburra contains elements of mystery as the protagonist attempts to uncover the secrets of the outback.
- Romance — The Kookaburra contains a romantic subplot between the protagonist and a love interest.
Tags
nature · birds · Australia · wildlife · kookaburra · environment · conservation · habitat · behavior · ecosystem · education · non-fiction