Inspired by the true story of a merino ram who was lost for five years in the bush near Canberra and set the record for the world’s heaviest fleece, A Woolly Tale is a delightful new fictional tale for children launched by the National Museum of Australia.
Written by author Jackie Hosking, A Woolly Tale follows the life and adventures of Chris, the world’s woolliest sheep, whose fleece is on display at the National Museum.
National Museum director Katherine McMahon said Chris the sheep is a beloved rural character who has enchanted visitors since his 41.1-kilogram fleece was acquired by the Museum in 2016.
“Chris became an international media story after his fleece was recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s ‘heaviest sheep fleece’, breaking records previously set in New Zealand by a whopping 12 kilograms.”
Author Jackie Hosking said she imagined what Chris the Sheep might have got up to during his “missing years”.
“Originally, I thought I might have him do something out of this world, like travelling to space but then opted for a more plausible story.
“I researched merino sheep and learned that they do not shed their wool and that they are foragers and eat a variety of plants, not just grass.
“These facts helped shape the story: one, that of course his fleece would keep growing and two, he’d be able to survive away from the sheep station.
“While I try to avoid writing stories that are didactic, I hope that children might see Chris as a courageous sheep, nervous at first but strong and determined in the end. And although he does run away in the beginning, he uses that time away to get to know himself until he feels brave enough to face his fears,” Ms Hosking said.
A Woolly Tale, a new children’s book by Jackie Hosking, reimagines the story of Chris the Sheep, who became famous for having the world’s heaviest fleece. Photo supplied
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