Australia is a land of enchanting tales and peculiar happenings, where the wildlife often has a story of its own to tell. One such story that captured the hearts and imaginations of people worldwide is now the inspiration behind a delightful children's book. It all began with an Aussie angler's photograph that was so astonishing, it left the internet in disbelief.


The photograph in question showcased a large fish with a bewildered green frog peering out from its gaping mouth. This peculiar moment, captured by the quick lens of photographer Angus James, quickly went viral, spreading across social media like wildfire. It wasn't long before the image found its way onto the Today Show in the United States and into the pages of a Russian newspaper, captivating audiences with its oddity.


Angus James, the man behind the lens, was inundated with offers to sell the rights to the photograph back in 2014. However, he chose to hold onto them, sensing that the image had a greater destiny than just a fleeting moment of internet fame. Little did he know that the photograph would eventually become the heart of a children's story, penned under the most tender of circumstances.


As Angus's wife, Amy James, recovered from the birth of their first child, she found herself 'nap-trapped' with a sleeping baby and no phone to distract her. It was during these quiet moments that inspiration struck, and she began to craft a poem about the now-famous fish and frog. Sharing her creation with Angus, the couple decided to bring the story to life, embarking on a journey to find the perfect illustrator.

The search for an illustrator was no small feat. Amy was determined to find someone who could not only capture the unique personalities of the frogs but also recreate the magical world of her childhood memories. Growing up close to where the fish was caught, she had a vivid image of the landscape that she wanted to see reflected in the book's illustrations.

At the core of the story is a powerful message of perseverance and hope. The little frog, presumably resigned to its fate within the jaws of the fish, was granted an unexpected reprieve when the fisherman released both creatures back into the wild. It's a tale that reminds us that even when the odds seem insurmountable, there's always a chance for a happy ending.


The fish, a large jungle perch, was caught near the Far North Queensland town of Tully, just as a storm was brewing. Angus believes that the frog was likely consumed during a frantic feeding frenzy, only to be saved by his timely intervention. 'It was being pretty greedy and took my lure even though it had a mouthful of frog,' Angus recounted to Yahoo News.

Now, with their oldest child at the age of two, the James family has the joy of seeing their story immortalized in print. UK-based illustrator Heather May Williams brought the tale to life with her charming illustrations, including a depiction of Angus that has become a point of pride for their young son. 'He looks at the book and says: There’s daddy. It’s a nice feeling, knowing that my wife is telling this story that will live on forever now,' Angus shared.

The book, a testament to Australia's weird and wonderful environment, is available for order in both hard copy and digital formats via Amazon. It's a story that not only celebrates the quirks of nature but also the bonds of family and the creative spirit that can turn an unexpected moment into a timeless fable.


So, dear members of the Seniors Discount Club, if you're looking for a heartwarming tale to share with your grandchildren or simply to enjoy the whimsy of Australia's wildlife, this book is a must-have. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most extraordinary stories come from the most unexpected places. Have you encountered any unusual wildlife stories in your own adventures? We'd love to hear about them in the comments below!