In a land where we almost worship the outdoors, one of the greatest gifts an Aussie grandparent can give a cherished littlie is a knowledge of water safety.
Which is exactly why Margaret Purcell wrote the children's picture book Millie and Minkie Learn to Swim, which came about after the Gold Coast resident attended her own grandkids' swimming lessons.
Suitable for three- to six-year-olds, it tells of two young mice, best friends who live next door to each other, who love to share their adventures.
At first Minkie is feeling a little unsure about the water but after seeing her friends having fun she decides to join them.
The book is written in four-line rhyming verse and is beautifully illustrated.
Millie and Minkie Learn to Swim, Margaret Purcell (Austin Macauley), RRP $12.90 (paperback), $6.20 (Kindle). Available via Amazon and eBay.