Within my Branches

This beautiful book follows the life of a single tree, from acorn to mighty oak and the fate that befalls it at the hands of men. Red text on stark white pages tells the story accompanied by gorgeous black and white illustrations, making the book a thing of beauty to be lingered over again and again.

The book celebrates the tree’s role in nature, the many creatures and birds it shelters and feeds, the many seeds it scatters which in turn grow to be trees as the world changes around it. Steadfast through storms, it is man’s actions which ultimately topple it, launching the tree into a new, unfamiliar life on the seas, carrying adventurers on their journeys.

The illustrations are just beautiful. The endpapers show the acorn’s germination as it grows to a small sapling, spreading its leaves to the light and each picture tells a story of its own, offering much to discuss and explore. It is a very special book, focusing attention on the beauty of trees and the essential role they play in our world.

Within My Branches Nicolas Michel

Pushkin Press ISBN: 978-1782694083

Never Ever Ever Ask a Pirate to a Party

‘Never Ever Ever Ask a Pirate to a Party’ is the perfect picture book for having a giggle and engaging children with the joy of a good book! Colourful fun illustrations make the perfect accompaniment to the lively text.

An increasingly bizarre array of guests arrive at a little girl’s birthday party. Although initially fun, their antics eventually lead to chaos and confusion, causing the little girl to send them all home! As each new arrival appears, the text follows a familiar pattern, perfect for encouraging listeners to join in- with plenty to laugh as they do! Children are sure to enjoy thinking of their own characters who might join the party- and the chaos they might cause! They might enjoy designing and writing their own invitations

The illustrations are wonderful- full of fun and details to notice! At the heart of the story is a message of real friendship. Having upset the little girl, her friends are quick to apologise and make amends whilst the little girl in turn realises the importance of having those friends around, despite the disarray and mayhem they caused!

This is the sort of book which would have had my son calling, ‘Again! Again!’ for another read the minute it was finished! It’s sure to become a firm favourite at home and at school!

Never Ever Ever Ask a Pirate to a Party

Clare Helen Welsh, illustrated by Anne-Kathrin Behl

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1839942181

You can read my review of ‘Sunny Side Up’ here.

Perfectly Imperfect

When Maria accidentally damages her brother’s best book, he is furious with her and Maria is heartbroken. Luckily, Bea is on hand to show her how things can be perfectly imperfect, with imperfections adding to the beauty of something and adding to the memories connected with it. Reassured, Maria decides to mend Robbie’s book and they settle down to read together.

Beauty is all around us, yet we are constantly told that to be beautiful something must be perfect. This gorgeous picture book allows readers to explore the idea that things can be ‘perfectly imperfect’- a scar might carry a story, a crack in the pavement yields a flower- and encourages everyone to look again at the world around them, appreciating flaws and apparent defects. In our society, we are so quick to throw things away, discarding and demeaning anything seen as less than perfect so this is brilliant for encouraging discussion and reflection. Something mended becomes unique, full of memories, full of love.

The Japanese practice Kintsugi, a process of repairing ceramics, traditionally with lacquer and gold, which highlights and enhances any breaks or chips, making a work of art out of something which might otherwise have been thrown away. This story captures that philosophy, making it relevant and inspiring. The illustrations capture the warmth of the relationship between Maria and both Bea and Robbie beautifully and we loved the antics of their pet cat- there’s a character who deserves a book of their own! This is a very special, thought-provoking book for home and school alike!

Imperfectly Perfect

Perry Emerson, illustrated by Hoang Giang

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1801044981

Published 7th September 2023

One Little Word

After a quarrel in the playground between two friends, the Argument appears. This lurid purple and orange depiction of their disagreement thrives on the ill-feelings in the air, swelling with each nasty word, look or deed. It forces its way between them and all the children in the playground start to take sides. Tension mounts until each mutters ‘sorry’ and with that little word, the Argument starts to shrink and harmony is restored once more.

This is one of those books which are just invaluable for helping children to explore and understand their emotions. Joseph Coelho has perfectly captured how something trivial between friends can escalate into a major issue. No blame is attached to either party, allowing the reader to consider both points of view, making it the perfect starting point for role play, hot seating and drama work. The Argument is seen as the issue here, blocking their friendship, getting in the way of their games, growing as time passes- giving visual representation to the atmosphere which this sort of falling out creates.

Words and pictures really do work completely in harmony in this lovely book. The frustration the children feel, the glee on the growing Argument’s face and then the contrition and relief experienced by the children as they utter that one little word, ‘sorry’, and their friendship blossoms once more are all beautifully captured. This is a book that would work well at home - perhaps to discuss quarrels between siblings- or at school- to defuse and explore playground incidents. I would happily use this with any age group and can think of many occasions with my Year 6’s where it would have been invaluable.

Gorgeous illustrations and soft words of wisdom- an excellent, much needed book!

One Little Word

Joseph Coelho, illustrated by Allison Colpoys

Frances Lincoln ISBN: 978-0711279094

You can read my review of ‘My Beautiful Voice’ here.

Hello Me!

‘Hello Me!’ follows a little boy as he learns to love himself and accept himself for who he is. Comparing his mind to a house, he knows maintaining it needs love and care so it can weather the bad times. He understands that he is not perfect and will make mistakes, but resolves to make the most of what he has and to persevere when things go wrong, asking for help when needed.

This is such a lovely, accessible book, brilliant for sharing with individual children or classes to open up discussions about mental health. Using a house as a metaphor for the mind is very easy for children to relate to, the lovely illustrations perfectly supporting the text. When the little boy is jealous of the girl on the boat, the pictures show that however much she seems to have, there are cracks and patches in her home as well.

At the end of the book, there are notes offering advice and guidance to support the ideas explored in the story- reassuring for adults who are sharing the book with little- and perhaps not-so-little- ones. An excellent addition to any bookshelf!

Hello Me! A Children’s Book of Well-being

Dr Naira Wilson, illustrated by Elisa Paganelli

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1801044844

A Star for Mama

Kip the baby penguin loves his mama very much. Whilst gazing at the night sky, Mama comments on the beauty of the stars and Kip has the idea of trying to catch a shooting star for her and sets off on an adventure…

What’s not to love about this sweet story! Celebrating the bond between mother and child, it shows the pleasure of spending time together and enjoying the little things in life. It is perfect for snuggling down together and sharing!

Kip’s love for his mother makes him want to do something really special for her, setting him off on his adventure. He is completely focused on his quest, failing to notice the dangers which readers will instantly spot as Kathy Creamer’s illustrations offer another layer to the story. The reassuring presence of the big grey dog prevents any really worries for Kip’s safety, despite the appearance of the hungry looking fox and the driving rain. I love the penultimate picture where mother and baby are sheltered by the dog under a sky filled with Northern Lights whilst the disgruntled fox scuttles off to look for food elsewhere. Children are sure to love to story of the crab who finds the net on the end papers only to have it whisked away by Kip, but who has gained possession of his prize once more on the final endpaper. There is plenty to discuss in this gentle story and plenty to enjoy.

At the end of the book, there is a section of penguin facts, allowing children to discover more about these fascinating creatures. Kip and the other penguins are shown living in what I assume are artificial nests, again opening possibilities for discussion and discovery.

A Star for Mama

Ashling Kwok, illustrated by Kathy Creamer

Little Pink Dog Books ISBN: 978-0648964131

Victor the wolf with worries

Victor worries a lot. He worries that he isn’t brave enough, big enough or wolfish enough. He tries to pretend that he’s all of these things- but then worries other might expect him to do the things which he is too worried to do. Luckily, his best friend, Pablo is on hand to offer some good advice and Victor’s worries start to recede and then Pablo confides that he (Pablo) had been worried about all the same things.

Wonderfully warm and reassuring, ‘Victor the wolf with worries’ is perfect for sharing with little ones who are struggling to cope with their feelings. Not only does Pablo help Victor understand that worrying is perfectly normal and something which everyone does, he also offers some excellent advice and strategies for dealing with these feelings. The book offers an excellent starting point for grown-ups for encouraging little ones to explore their emotions and find ways of dealing with them.

The illustrations are everything you would expect from Catherine Rayner. Victor has the most gorgeous little face with wonderfully expressive eyes, allowing the reader to really empathise with him- again, perfect for encouraging discussions about feelings. I am always stunned by Catherine’s artwork- every spread is a masterpiece!

Victor the Wolf with Worries

Catherine Rayner

Macmillan ISBN: 978-1529051285

Gigantic

Living in the Atlantic is a blue whale named Gigantic. But Gigantic is the smallest whale in his pod. Teased by his brother, Titan, Gigantic makes friends with a turtle named Myrtle and together, the two have great fun leaping and diving and playing. When Titan sees them, he declares that whatever Gigantic can do, he (Titan) can do better…which leads to him being grounded. Luckily, Gigantic, Myrtle and all the small sea life creatures are on hand to help and Titan learns a valuable lesson.

A new Rob Biddulph book is always a thing of joy and ‘Gigantic’ is no exception! Like his other books, it is sure to become a firm favourite at home, and at school with one reading never being enough! The text is a pleasure to read aloud and the vocabulary used is rich and varied, offering plenty of new words to discuss and enjoy. Titan’s taunting of his little brother is something many siblings will recognise and the story will be relevant to many, perhaps leading to conversations about empathy and understanding- and not just between siblings! I love the friendship between Gigantic and Myrtle, two very different creatures forming such a lovely bond and sticking together!

As with all of Rob’s books, the illustrations are just wonderful. There are five things to find hidden in the pages as well as plenty of details to notice and enjoy. Both illustrations and story are sure to lead to learning about sea creatures and the oceans as so many creatures are depicted under the water. As well as being a joy for a read aloud, the book lends itself brilliantly to being a key text for a class to work with, sure to lead to lots of wonderful work and plenty of pleasure!

Gigantic Rob Biddulph

Harper Collins ISBN: 978-0008413439

Published 14th September

You can read my review of ‘Odd Dog Out’ here, ‘An Odd Dog Christmas’ here and ‘The Blue Footed Booby’ here.

Shifty McGifty and Slippery Sam: Train Trouble

The boys are back - and so is their feline foe, Kitty Le Claw. Shifty and Sam are off on the Pawrient Express as it heads for Carnival Night in Venice. As the baker dogs whip up lots of delicious delights for the passengers, the lights go out and a porter is quickly identified not only as the robber, but their arch-nemesis, Kitty Le Claw. As she escapes in her getaway gondola, ss chase her through Venice, but, although they manage to retrieve the stolen goods, Kitty escapes…

I am proud to declare myself Shifty and Sam’s Number One fan! For the last 10 years, Tracey and Steven’s stories about these loveable robber dogs turned bakers have been amongst my go-to books for sharing at story times (whether in school or at home), using as a starting point for crafting activities or simply for reading for pleasure myself. ‘Train Trouble’ continues the series in style, offering the perfect combination of Tracey’s beautifully bouncing rhyming text and Steven’s brilliantly detailed and entertaining illustrations.

The rhyming text is a joy to read aloud, full of humour and perfectly paced, with plenty of opportunities for discussion. The ‘Pawrient’ Express, gondolas, Venice and its masked Carnivals are all excellent starting points for curious minds wanting to learn more.

As ever, the illustrations are pure joy! Every spread offers the usual spider hunt and fans of the series are sure to recognise some familiar faces like Lady Kate and Barnaby along with some of the guest from Woofington Hall and Sidney Scarper the penguin. I’m luck enough to have been to Venice more than once (and am the only person I know who has fallen out of a gondola- fortunately not into the canal!) and loved spotting details Steven has captured in his pictures. The carnival picture even includes pigeons in masks- with some bearing a marked resemblance to Shifty, Sam, Kitty and the spider!

I hope there are many more adventures for Shifty and Sam- at least another 10 years worth! Huge congratulations to Tracey and Steven for their genius and many thanks for all the joy they have given fans of these gorgeous books.

Shifty McGifty and Slippery Sam: Train Trouble

Tracey Corderoy and Steven Lenton

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1839943225

You can read my reviews of ‘The Missing Masterpiece’ here, ‘The Stolen Sleigh’ here and ‘Pirates Ahoy’ here.

Pea Pod Lullaby

Soothing and lyrical, ‘Pea Pod Lullaby’ is part song, part poem and perfect for sharing. As a mother, baby, small child and their dog flee in a small, tattered boat. As they sail across the vast ocean, they are joined by a little bird and a polar bear in need of help, sharing what they have as they journey on through all weathers. The little bird flies away and the polar bear climbs off onto an ice berg to join three cubs and the family continue sailing until they reach the safety of land once more.

The family’s story is developed through the illustrations, making the book wonderful for ‘reading the pictures’ and initiating discussions about the plight of the family and the creatures they encounter. The polar bear they rescue, for example, is floating on a fridge, not ice as might be expected. Sharp eyes might also notice the little bird returning to the boat, clutching a leaf in its beak, just before the boat reaches land, just as the dove returned to the ark. Each picture is beautiful, telling a story of hope and compassion, of need and sharing, of love and togetherness.

A note at the end of the book tells the reader that the words were created in response to the illustrations. They send a touching message about the importance of caring for one another. The richness of the vocabulary and the powerful imagery might resonate more with adults than with children, but there is no denying their beauty or poignancy.

Pea Pod Lullaby

Glenda Millard, illustrated by Stephen Michael King

Old Barn Books ISBN: 978-1910646458

Flora and Nora Hunt for Treasure

Best friends, Flora and Nora, are cats with very different personalities and they are both off on a sea-faring adventure to find the Secret Treasure. When disaster strikes, their boat is destroyed and they are separated. As Flora starts to panic and as Nora starts to cry, each is consoled by asking themselves what the other would do in that situation and things start to look brighter. Ultimately, the two are reunited, realising that their friendship is worth so much more than treasure.

Friendship is such a wonderful thing and this lovely book is a brilliant celebration of how friends can support and complement each other. The two cats have different strengths- Flora, we are told, has brilliant ideas whilst Nora has an organised tool box, but together, they face everything the voyage throws at them. Their separation only makes them appreciate each other more. Standing beside a huge mound of Secret Treasure, they are too busy being reunited to even notice these riches, only seeing the value in each other. Although there is lots of humour, the story also offers plenty to discuss about the things which are important in life.

The delightfully quirky, brightly-coloured illustrations are full of details, making them really engaging and full of things to notice. This is a story which will become a firm favourite, with many re-readings being demanded! An absolute joy!

Flora and Nora Hunt for Treasure

Kim Hillyard

Penguin ISBN: 978-0241488607

You can read my review of Mabel and the Mountain here.

Fly, Butterfly, Fly!

I love the ‘Wild Wanderers’ series by Dom Conlon and Anastasia Izlesou. Beautifully illustrated, each uses lyrical language to draw attention to the wonders of its subject. This book focuses on butterflies- the Cabbage White, in particular. Feeling herself too plain when compared to her more colourful cousins, she embarks on a journey, allowing the reader to accompany her around the world.

In each location, we meet butterflies who live there and learn about their natural beauty and the difficulties and dangers they experience. Back home, the Cabbage White’s colour allows her, unseen, to lay her eggs on the leaves of the cabbages ‘pebbling the fields all around’, completing the life cycle as they say ‘crawl, Caterpillar, crawl’ to her young.

I know I’m getting old, but my childhood memories are not only full of hot summers, but full of butterflies. Red Admirals, Painted Ladies, Small Tortoiseshells, Common Blues seemed to fill the gardens and hedgerows. Now, each sighting of one of these mini-marvels is a moment of celebration and so this book offers a wonderful way of introducing young readers to the different species which can be found across the world, hopefully sparking interest and developing a genuine concern for their well-being.

The descriptive, poetic language is a pleasure to read aloud and is a perfect starting point for further discovery. The use of Kennings- foot-taster, proboscis-drinker- draws attention to specific details whilst other phrases celebrates the beauty of the butterfly, but the whole text is full of information about these fascinating creatures. Each illustration is full of things to notice and explore and the book ends with a section on ‘Butterfly Facts’, an excellent starting point for discovering more. I look forward to finding out what Dom chooses to focus on next- or was ‘Crawl, Caterpillar, Crawl’ a clue?!

Fly, Butterfly, Fly!

Dom Conlon, illustrated by Anastasia Izlesou

Graffeg ISBN: 978-1802580785

You can read my review of ‘Grow, Tree, Grow!’ here, ‘Blow, Leap, Hare, Leap!’ here and ‘Swim, Shark, Swim!’ here.

The Ocean Gardener

Ayla’s island home is surrounded by a coral reef. This she visits with her mum who is a marine biologist, wondering at its beauty and all the incredible creature who live there. On one visit, however, they notice the corals have lost their vibrant colours and the fish were disappearing, swimming off into the ocean. Fortunately, Ayla’s mum has a plan, but is it too late to save the coral reef?

In this gorgeous book, Clara Anganuzzi both captures the beauty and importance of coral reefs and the important work done by marine biologists in working to reverse the damage that has been done to them.

The lyrical text gently conveys so much- the close mother-daughter relationship, the wonders of the reef, sorrow at the destruction of the reef, the hope that it might recover and joy for the future. It is sure to capture the imagination and the breath-taking illustrations which accompany it are just as enchanting.

At the end of the book, readers are introduced to a real marine biologist, Chloe, whose story offers facts to support the events of the book, perfect for sparking conversations about the work being done to reverse the damage done to the environment, offering a hopeful message. The book concludes with some facts about corals and what is happening to them is also included.

‘The Ocean Gardener’ is a must-have for homes, classrooms and libraries.

The Ocean Gardener Clara Anganuzzi

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1838915315

You can read my review of ‘Dear Earth’, illustrated by Clara, here.

Ning and the Night Spirits

A little boy called Ning lives in Long Shan Valley where every night his family light lamps to scare away the night spirits. Although he really wants to find out more about the spirits, Ning cannot ask the other children as they seem every bit as scary as any night spirit. Hearing his parents worrying about him, Ning heads off into the forest where he meets a night spirit who is anything, but scary. They quickly become friends and Ning meets other amazing creatures and spirits which live in the forest. Finding that they are hiding in the forest because they are scared of people, Ning knows he must find the courage - and the words- to help them.

Perfect for sharing at home or at school, ‘Ning and the Night Spirits’ is, like all Flying Eye publications, a beautifully produced book, tempting readers to pick it up and explore the story within.

Ning is a quiet child who is unsure around other children, lacking the confidence to talk to them. In order to help the creatures of the forest, he has to overcome his fears and find a way to make himself heard. The story is sure to make readers empathise with Ning and encourage discussions about how the children might have been able to support him with overcoming his fears. This might lead to conversations about other fears and seeking ways to tackle these.

The story also shows how easily misconceptions can arise as both the villagers and the creatures of the forest believe they have something to fear from the unknown. It takes Ning to bring the two sides together and explain the misunderstanding on each side, encouraging a celebration of their differences as they learn more about each other. Children might also notice that the animals have been driven away from their natural habitat by the actions of humans- again, leading to discussions about the world around us and being thoughtful towards, and respectful of, everything that lives in it.

Each spread is wonderfully illustrated, with lots of details to notice and enjoy. The spirits and the creatures Ning meets are perfect for sparking imagination and encouraging children to create their own whilst the map on the end papers (showing the change in Ning at the end!) is perfect for using as support for plotting stories in Ning’s world.

A delightful story!

Ning and the Night Spirits Adriena Fong

Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1913123161

The Thing at 52

There’s a Thing on my street.
He lives at number 52.

A little girl notices a Thing living in her street and worries that he might be lonely so she brings him a flower. Soon, a wonderful friendship blossoms and they have lots of fun together. The little girl realises that there are many Things and decides to throw a party where everyone has the best fun. But one day, the Thing has to leave and their adventures come to an end.

‘The Thing at 52’ beautifully illustrates the importance of noticing others and offering small acts of kindness to those in need. As the little girl watches the Thing, she becomes sure he is lonely and wants to help. By taking him the small gift of a flower, she opens the possibility of a new friendship- a perhaps unexpected one. The story offers the perfect starting point for discussions about not just friendships with peers, but other members of the community who might be lonely. The little girl’s mum is quietly present, supporting her in her desire to spread some kindness. And through her friendship with the Thing, the little girl reaches out to the rest of the community.

The story also looks at loss. The Thing leaves…’All things have to go sometime’ he tells the little girl. Although she is sad and misses the Thing deeply, the story book shows how their relationship has left her with positive, hopeful feelings. She is happy to see the new family at number 52 because she thinks the Thing would have liked it; she has formed new relationships as a result of their friendship. There is plenty to discuss here with a child experiencing loss, whether through death or separation.

The illustrations are gorgeous, warm and joyful. I particularly love mum’s presence in the story. The mother-daughter relationship is beautifully captured as she supports and comforts her child, encouraging her to make her own decisions.

Perfect for sharing, this lovely story should have a place in every library or bookshelf!

The Thing at 52

Ross Montgomery, illustrated by Richard Johnson

Frances Lincoln ISBN: 978-0711279148

You can read my review of ‘Penguin Huddle’ here and ‘Spellstone’ here.

Speak Up!

Rocket loves going to the library with her mum and big brother, Jamal and is devastated to learn that the library has to close as there is not enough money to keep it open. However, Rocket has been reading a book about Rosa Parks, and decides that she (Rocket) must follow Rosa’s example and SPEAK UP! about the importance of libraries. Can she save the day- and the library?

Since ‘Look Up!’, Rocket has been one of my favourite picture book characters. Her determination, resilience and optimism in each story are an absolute joy and the stories are perfect for sharing and enjoying time and again. ‘Speak Up!’ is her latest adventure- and it is even better than the others!

The subject matter is very close to my heart. The essential role libraries play in communities, the haven they provide, the wealth of books they hold, the possibilities and lifelong learning and joy they offer- the value of these things cannot be underestimated. Through Rocket’s experience, conversations about their importance and the need to safeguard them for future generations can be started, particularly given the current budget cuts.

Rocket uses Rosa Parks (who she read about in a book borrowed from the library!) as her role model and the story shows that peaceful protest can bring about change. The library is saved by the generosity of individuals- not by the local council having a change of heart- people inspired by Rocket and the community speaking up for what they believe is worth fighting for.

Illustrations and text work in complete harmony. Rocket’s vivacity, her loving family, the energy of the campaign are all captured brilliantly, making each spread a joy to linger over and explore. I love spotting books I recognise on Rocket’s bookshelves and outside the library van!

Sure to be every bit the success of the two previous books, ‘Speak Up!’ is a powerful, heart-warming story for everyone to enjoy.

Speak Up!

Nathan Bryon and Dapo Adeola

Puffin ISBN: 978-0241345870

Holey Moley

When Gus the Goat meets Mavis Mole, he enthusiastically sets about trying to guess where she lives. However, his determination to find a rhyme soon becomes annoying as he ignores all Mavis’s attempts to set him straight!

Full of fun, ‘Holey Moley’ is a brilliant story for sharing. Children will love Gus’s attempts to rhyme and will, no doubt, be full of their own suggestions for where Mavis might live- and then perhaps turn their attention to other creatures (good luck with squirrel!). There is a joyful silliness about Gus’s suggestions which makes the story a delight to read aloud as each idea is wackier than the last!

Anders Frang’s illustrations capture the anarchic humour brilliantly and each spread offers plenty of additional fun! I love the antics of the squirrels on the end papers and then throughout the book as they observe the unfolding drama! This is one of those books which will have young readers shouting, ‘Again!’ as soon as it’s finished! Great fun!

Holey Moley

Bethan Clarke, illustrated by Anders Frang

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1801044134

Sunny Side Up

In this gorgeous picture book, children- and adults!- are encouraged to look on the bright side of life and find the positives in each situation. Using the idea of ‘sunny-side specs’, author, Clare Helen Welsh, offers readers a different way of seeing things- a ‘goodbye’ to one person could be a ‘hello’ to another and a bad mood could easily become a good one. This lovely, simple idea is perfect for encouraging children to develop a sense of having choice in how they react to things and thus a positive impact on the outcome. Schools and families might choose to design and make their own ‘sunny-side specs’ and use these as a reminder when needed. Taking action to make change is also encouraged- families are shown tackling waste in the sea so that they are able to enjoy the water together once it’s cleared- nothing seems impossible when viewed through the sunny-side specs!

However, the book also acknowledges that there are occasions when there isn’t a sunny side, reassuring the reader that it is OK to feel sad at times. I love the line- ‘The more sunny things you find, the sunnier you’ll feel.’- so true and so important to remember and share! It is vital to encourage children (and adults!) to believe that things might not be as bad as they first thought, that with a little bit of ‘reviewing the situation’ they might be able to see things in a more positive light! Clare- one of the happiest, most positive people I have ever had the pleasure to meet- has created a real winner here!

The text is accompanied by Ana Sanfelippo’s wonderful illustrations. Colourful spreads are enhanced by die-cuts and flaps which transform the pictures, just as having a different outlook can transform the world around us. There is plenty to talk about in each picture- perfect for classroom discussions or for sharing at home. This is an inspired- and inspiring- book!

Sunny Side Up

Clare Helen Welsh, illustrated by Ana Sanfelippo

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1801044172

How to Grow a Dragon

Mr Pottifer’s Parlour of of Plants is a magical place, full of wondrous plants and Mr Pottifer is ably assisted by Sarah and Sprout the unicorn. One day, the postman delivers a variety pack of Dragodil seeds which results in a magical crop of dragons in all shapes and sizes. Although quickly homed, the dragons are not very well behaved and soon are all returned. Fortunately, Sarah is both resourceful and determined and soon, the dragons are all trained and happily homed once more.

This is such a lovely story! The rhyming text bounces along energetically, making it a pleasure to read aloud with plenty of opportunities for listeners to join in. Rachel Morrisroe has used a rich vocabulary which offers plenty to discuss as well as plenty of humour. Wonderfully imaginative, the ending suggests another idea for something which Mr Pottifer, Sarah and Sprout might grow in their shop, showing the potential for endless storytelling and developing ideas as children are sure to have plenty of suggestions of their own. The note from Sarah at the end about ‘how to grow your reading skills’ is so encouraging and thoughtful!

Full of imaginative details, colour and energy, the illustrations are fabulous! From gnomes with their socks scared off to lion like dandelions to Sprout’s loveable antics on every page, there is so much to notice, explore and enjoy in each of Steven’s brilliant pictures. Each of the dragons is bursting with personality- again, perfect for developing storytelling. The cover is really tempting with its textured, glistening dragon and this story is sure to become a firm favourite at home and at school!

How to Grow a Dragon

Rachel Morrisroe, illustrated by Steven Lenton

Puffin ISBN: 978-0241392256

I Heard a Bird

When cats seem to scare away the bird she is listening to, a little girl searches for it. As she endeavours to find it, she notices all kinds of insects and creatures in her garden before lying on the grass and connecting with nature.

the beautiful weather over the last few days has reminded me of how much I used to enjoy spending time with my son in the garden, discovering and observing nature as well as playing and creating. In this lovely book, Rob Ramsden explores the importance of using all the senses to appreciate the world around us, capturing the joy of really focusing on the little things in life. The carefully chosen language is perfect for sharing with children and encouraging them to identify the sounds and sights of nature- and then, perhaps, to investigate for themselves. The little girl’s concern for the bird and her desire to make sure the cats haven’t hurt it also offers plenty of scope for discussion about caring.

Additionally, the story shows the importance of taking time to relax and take time to connect with the natural world. The little girl hears the music of nature as she uses some simple meditative techniques which families could try for themselves.

The illustrations are delightful. Bright and bold, they are full of details to discuss and explore whilst the text has been used in places to imitate the movement of creatures- woodlice wandering, caterpillars, crawling- adding to the enjoyment of the story.

This is the fourth in Rob’s ‘In the Garden’ series, with ‘I Saw a Bee’, ‘We Found a Seed’ and ‘We Planted a Pumpkin’. Each is sure to foster a love of nature. Each is beautifully presented, colourful and instantly appealing, perfect for sharing with little ones.

I Heard a Bird Rob Ramsden

Scallywag Press ISBN: 978-1915252005