< Back Nicole Frankel What is math good for, anyway? Can Bennie learn to love math? Bennie hates math. He thinks math is dull and silly, and he doesn’t understand why he has to learn math at school, when he could be doing something much more interesting instead. He ponders, what is math good for anyway? As Bennie goes about his day, he soon learns that math is more useful than he realises. In the cafeteria at lunchtime, Bennie uses math to count his chips and trade cookies with his friend. In the playground at recess, Bennie uses math to count how far he can swing in a monkey bar competition. After school, he uses math to find out how much money he needs to buy his ice cream. At home, he uses math to measure how tall he is, to see if he can ride his favourite roller coaster. That evening, as Bennie thinks about how he used math throughout his day, he realises that math is Mathtastic after all! He feels excited to go to school the next day to continue his math journey. What is math good for, anyway? Is a picture book by author Nicole Frankel, illustrated by Firman Putra Irawan. The book follows a young boy named Bennie as he discovers that math doesn’t have to be dull and boring. It can be fun, cool and useful in any situation, from playing in the park, to buying treats. The book shows that math is an integral part of life, and is used anywhere and everywhere. The book is an excellent resource for parents, carers and educators to introduce young children to math and help explain its importance. Young children will be inspired by Bennie’s curiosity and will hopefully learn to love and appreciate math, both in the classroom and at home. The artwork is fun, vibrant and engaging. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A fun introduction to math and its usefulness in everyday life. Simply Mathtastic! Purchase here

< Back Charly Froh How to Solve the Mystery of Crying Space-robot Novo travels to earth to solve a mystery, by author Charly Froh Space robot, Novo, from the planet Infinita, is back for another exciting adventure. His week starts with shopping at the Martian Market, but on his way home, Novo is caught up in a space storm that destroys his venus-bot flowers, and causes liquid to leak from his laser eyes. Novo tries everything to make the liquid stop, but nothing will stop the drip-drop dripping. His only option is to contact his earthling friends. They will know exactly what to do! So, Novo whistles for his scooter, vrooms towards earth, and is reunited with his earthling friends. The earthlings explain the liquid is tears from crying, and people can cry when they are happy, joyful, angry or frustrated. But, Novo still cannot explain his tears as he feels neither happy, joyful, angry or frustrated. The earthlings listen to Novo’s story, how the space storm destroyed his precious flowers, and how he feared the rain would rust his body, and then suddenly the tears stopped. With a little help from his earthling friends, Novo realised his tears were tears of sadness, and that talking about his sadness helped him feel much better. Novo returned back to Infinita to share his news with all the other space-bots. How to Solve the Mystery of Crying by author Charly Froh is a cute and funny picture book about an adorable little robot who travels to earth to solve the mystery of his leaking eyes. This is a delightful book and Novo is a sweet and adorable character, who will appeal to younger readers. The book deals with a complex topic in a really simple, engaging and age-appropriate way, and will encourage young readers to share and discuss their thoughts and feelings with others. The illustrations by Zuzana Svobodova are bright and engaging, and with lots of interesting and funny details, will keep readers entertained for hours. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A delightful picture book about a sweet and adorable robot character, who goes on a space-tastic adventure to solve the mystery of crying. Purchase here

< Back Jana L. Farris The Chicken on the Moon A little chick, dreams big. Little Chick was tiny on the day he was born, but he wanted to grow big and tall, so he ate all his corn. He dreams of travelling to outer space, but he is still too small. So, Chick studies hard, morning, noon, and night, and learns everything there is to know about space. One day, all of his hard work pays off when he is selected as an astronaut. But when they try to send him to the sun, Chick knows it is a bad idea, and he takes a detour to the moon instead! The Chicken on the Moon by author and illustrator Jana L. Farris is a fun, creative and quirky illustrated picture book for young children about a little chick who dreams of becoming an astronaut. The little chick is told he will never make it, but he never gives up hope and continues to follow his dream. The book will encourage young children to work hard and follow their dreams. If a little chick can do it, anyone can! This is a fun picture book, written in rhyme. Children will love the chicken characters and will laugh out loud at Chick’s amazing space adventure. The illustrations are cute, colourful, and quirky. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fun, creative and quirky illustrated picture book for young children about a little chick who dreams of becoming an astronaut. Purchase here

< Back Kim Adams Billy Be Kind: My BIG Feelings Billy Be Kind helps a young girl manage difficult emotions. A young girl named Olivia is sad that her best friend, Maya, is moving away. Olivia hugs Maya and begs her to stay, but Maya has to leave with her family. Olivia’s feelings grow and grow, until she ‘blows’. She stomps on the floor, throws things to the ground, and cries, cries and cries. A tiny mouse named Billy Be Kind plays a game with Olivia to help her name her feelings. Olivia describes feeling angry, worried, sad and bad, and acknowledges she screams and shouts to let the anger out. Billy helps Olivia to breathe, count and calm down. By naming her feelings, and taking time to breathe, Olivia learns how to understand and better manage her emotions. Billy encourages Olivia to write a letter to Maya, and to remember all the good times they had together. Billy Be Kind: My BIG Feelings by author Kim Adams is an illustrated picture book about a little mouse, Billy Be Kind, who helps a young girl named Olivia to name, express and manage her emotions. Olivia is distraught and angry when her best friend moves away, and Billy provides Olivia with a range of tools and techniques to cope with difficult emotions. The book is a valuable resource for parents, caregivers, or educators, to help young children recognise and manage their emotions in an accessible and age-appropriate way. Written in rhyme and complemented by bright and dynamic illustrations, the book is an engaging guide to emotional literacy. The book will encourage young children to recognise and acknowledge their emotions, and provides practical tools to help them cope through difficult times. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A valuable resource and an engaging guide to emotional literacy, with practical tools and techniques to help children cope with difficult emotions. Purchase here

< Back Carina Ho & Jesse Byrd Mighty Mara An inspirational book for anyone who has ever struggled to fit in, from authors Carina Ho and Jesse Byrd Everyone is the same in Sametown. Everyone except Mara. Mara is different. She is colour in a world of grey. She is unique in a world of ordinary. But, because of her uniqueness, Mara struggles to find her place in Sametown. What she wants more than anything in the world, is for people to love her just for who she is. Inspired by a TV show, Mara decides to sign up for the school talent show. She wants to show off her dance skills, but no one dances in Sametown, certainly not like Mara anyway. No-one believes she can do it. No-one thinks she has a chance. Will Mara have the courage to dance in the talent show? And will she prove her critics wrong? This is an inspirational story of a unique young girl who struggles to fit in. The odds are stacked against her - no-one believes in her and the environment doesn’t make things easy for her – but, through sheer determination, self-belief, and extraordinary talent, she realises her dream. It will encourage young children not only to accept their differences, but to embrace and celebrate their differences, and to follow their dreams. We liked that there were no words on some of the pages, which will encourage parents and children to discuss the pictures and interpret the events in their own words. The book is beautifully presented and illustrated by Monica Paola Rodriguez. We loved the colours, and the images of Mara standing out and shining in a world of dull grey. We did notice some grammatical errors, and therefore recommend the authors consider a full editorial review. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A beautifully presented picture book about an inspirational young girl with a unique talent. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Stacy Gabel At the Zoo-oo-oo Sing-along with Stacy At the Zoo-oo-oo by author, singer- songwriter, and recording artist Stacy Gabel, is a fun sing-along picture book for younger children, featuring an original song written by the author. It’s a day trip to the zoo, and young readers are invited to sing along and find a variety of zoo animals. But zoo animals like you have never seen before. A giraffe, riding a raft! A potbellied pig dancing a jig! With lots of wonderful rhyme and repetition, each page follows the same structure. ‘Who’s seen a slippery seal, slip slip sliding on a banana peel? Who’s seen a slippery seal at the zoo? Well, I’ve seen a slippery seal, slip slip sliding on a banana peel! I’ve seen a slippery seal right here at the zoo! At the zoo, oh at the zoo! Woo! I’ve seen a slippery seal right here at the zoo!' Parents and children will love to sing along to the simple and catchy tune and will enjoy the illustrations of the zoo animals in various unexpected scenarios. The author recommends readers download the accompanying song and official music video from her website to enjoy the full experience. I didn’t, but I made up a tune and thoroughly enjoyed the experience! An interactive, creative sing-along book, with a rather catchy earworm. I’m sure the book will inspire a love of music and encourage creativity amongst younger readers. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fun, sing-along picture book about life at the zoo-oo-oo. Purchase here

< Back Becca Johnsey When We Are Apart Author Becca Johnsey explores separation anxiety in a sweet picture book This is a picture book about a little boy who loves spending time with his father. Father and son have lots of fun, playing games and reading books together. But when his father is away at work during the day, the little boy feels sad. He misses his father terribly, and hopes he will come home soon. The little boy’s mom comforts him, and explains she misses him and feels sad too. The little boy tries a number of things to pass the time and relieve the sadness. Breathing and relaxation techniques, keeping busy, and looking at the watch his father bought him. He also rings his father at work, which reassures him he will be home soon. When We Are Apart by author Becca Johnsey is a sweet, rhyming, picture book about a little boy who misses his father when he is away at work. The author was inspired to write this book following her own experiences when her young son missed his father, when he returned to work following the pandemic. The book will help young children name and understand their feelings, and deal with their emotions. It will provide comfort and reassurance that they are loved even when a parent might be absent, and that the parent will come home. With a list of activities to support families at the end of this book, the book will help families manage emotions when a parent or loved one leaves home. It will provide support and comfort to those who might be experiencing separation anxiety. Beautiful digital illustrations by Mariza, created in a traditional style. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sweet, rhyming, picture book that will help young children deal with their emotions when a parent might be away from home. Purchase here

< Back Amie White A Friend for Hope A Friend for Hope is a tender and heartwarming children’s story that beautifully captures the importance of friendship and the comfort that animals can bring into our lives. Written by Amie White and illustrated by Olena Oprich, the book follows nine-year-old Zoe Meadows as she navigates the gentle rhythms of her daily life, only to have it changed by the arrival of a new pet. Zoe’s parents are concerned she is lonely and surprise her with a visit to an animal shelter, to find a new friend. At the shelter, Zoe meets an older, quieter dog, waiting for her forever home. The family adopt the dog and Zoe names her Hope. The dialogue between Zoe and her parents is realistic and supportive, emphasizing themes of empathy and understanding. When Hope arrives at her new home, she is initially shy and hesitant. Zoe is patient with Hope, and the pair soon become forever friends. The author’s use of nature imagery, such as fireflies twinkling like tiny stars, and the hum of bike wheels, creates a soothing and comforting narrative that will appeal to young readers and their caregivers alike. The book’s gentle tone and positive message make it a wonderful read family read, especially for those who might be considering adopting a pet. Illustrator Olena Oprich’s beautiful artwork enhances the emotional impact of the story. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sweet and uplifting story that celebrates the joys of friendship and the special bond between children and animals. Purchase here

< Back Deanna Hart A Firefly Named Felix Felix is a little firefly, who is just like all the other fireflies, but he has a secret. All of his friends can light up their bioluminescence, but no matter how hard Felix tries, he cannot light up. One day, while playing with his brothers and sisters, they notice he cannot light up and laugh at him. Felix is sad and wonders what is wrong with him. When his friends at school tease him because he cannot play lightning tag, Felix thinks he is a dud and hides in the closet. Felix’s teacher gives him a hug and explains that not all fireflies can light up. She helps Felix and the other fireflies recognise that everyone has their own special and unique abilities. The next time Felix is asked to play lightning tag, he finds an alternative way to join in the fun. A Firefly Named Felix is a touching picture book by author Deanna Hart about a young firefly who cannot light up like all of the other fireflies. As Felix watches all of his friends light up in the dark, he feels left out and wonders if he’ll ever be able to join in the fun. Young readers will empathise with Felix’s feelings of self-doubt and exclusion. The story reminds young readers to believe in themselves, to celebrate their uniqueness, to show kindness to others, and to be an upstander to bullying. With additional information for both children and parents, the book is an excellent teaching resource to support conversations about bullying. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A gentle yet powerful lesson in kindness, diversity and inclusion, and self-acceptance. Purchase here

< Back Ashley Wall The Day I Had a Dinosaur Luke and his friends have the best-osaurus day ever. Luke is playing in the garden with his dog, Bobo, when the ground starts to shake. He spins around and finds a real-life Tyrannosaurus Rex (T-Rex) in his garden. Luke and the T-Rex become instant buddies. But when the ground starts to rumble, Luke discovers his friend, Noah, riding a Brachiosaurus. Luke and Noah take their new dinosaur pals to the park, but the dinosaurs are way too big to enjoy the playground. So, they make their own playground instead, climbing up and sliding down their new dinosaur friends. They hear a roar, and their friends Emma and Mikey join in the fun riding their own dinosaurs, a Triceratops and a Pterodactyl. The friends decide to play hide and seek in the park, and soon realise it is not so easy to hide a dinosaur! They play fetch with the dinosaurs, using dinosaur sized tree stumps instead of sticks, they play basketball and baseball, and they even take part in a little dino-yoga – adapting each activity to make sure even the biggest dinosaurs can take part. The Day I Had a Dinosaur is an illustrated picture by author Ashley Wall about a young boy and his friends, who meet a bunch of dinosaurs and have the best-osaurus day ever, playing in the park. This is a delightful and fun picture book, featuring some of the most popular and famous dinosaurs in the dinosaur family. The illustrations are bright and playful, and the characters are charming. I liked the diversity of the characters and the adaptation of the activities, so all dinosaurs could take part. Perfect for young children who love dinosaurs and enjoy imaginative storytelling. Young people love dinosaurs, and they will laugh out loud at this dinosaur filled playground adventure. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A laugh-out-loud, fun-filled playground adventure, with a dino-sized twist. Purchase here

< Back D.K. Wingerson Gary Greenbird A Baseball Adventure Gary Greenbird: A Baseball Adventure is a charming and uplifting children's story by D.K. Wingerson that follows the character, Gary Greenbird, as he embarks on a cross-country journey with his brother Greg to explore the world of baseball. This book, the second in the Gary Greenbird series, builds on Gary's earlier adventures and continues to encourage young readers to embrace courage, curiosity, and self-belief. The story begins with Gary, now confident in his flying abilities, being invited by his older brother Greg to visit various baseball parks. The story cleverly introduces children to the excitement and culture of baseball, from the bustling crowds and the thrill of the game to the quieter moments when the stadiums are empty. The brothers' journey is filled with new experiences, challenges, and friendships - including a memorable encounter with a friendly cow and other bird companions. One of the book's strengths is its gentle approach to overcoming fears and stepping outside one's comfort zone. Gary's initial apprehension about the unfamiliar world of baseball is relatable for young readers, and his gradual adaptation models resilience and open-mindedness. The story also highlights the importance of family bonds, teamwork, and the joy of shared adventures. The illustrations by Uliana Barabash are vibrant and engaging, bringing the characters and ballparks to life. It is well-suited for children who love animals, adventure, or baseball, and it offers plenty of opportunities for discussion about courage, friendship, and trying new things. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A delightful read that combines the excitement of sports with valuable life lessons. Purchase here

< Back Glynis Falloon New Friends It is Saturday morning and Katie is looking forward to a full day of fun when she hears scratching and crying noises from underneath the deck. She goes to investigate the strange noises with her grandma and finds two eyes poking through the cracks in the boards. Katie and her grandma discover a small, orange, tabby cat hidden under the deck. While Katie is keen to keep the cat, her grandma suggests she tries to find the cat’s owner. Katie and her grandma speak to their neighbors, but no-one knows where the cat lives, or to whom it belongs. So, Katie and her grandma make posters and hang them in their neighborhood, in the hope of finding the owner of the cat. While Katie tries to locate the owner, she meets new people and develops new friendships. Will Katie find the cat’s owner? How will she feel if she has to give up the cat she has become fond of? New Friends is an illustrated picture book for children, by author Glynis Falloon. The book follows the story of a little girl, who finds a cat hidden under her grandma’s deck. This is a sweet and charming picture book that young children will relate to. Katie is a loveable character with a big heart, and the little cat is adorable. The book encourages kindness and compassion, and will help children learn the importance of friendship and taking care of animals. The simple, yet engaging text makes it perfect for young readers, and the expressive illustrations bring Katie’s personality to life beautifully. Young children will enjoy following Katie’s adventures, and the book may even encourage them to develop new friendships. It’s a great way to start children thinking about animal welfare, and helping animals in their own communities. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A delightful story with charming illustrations, will help children learn the importance of friendship, kindness and compassion. https://tinyurl.com/NewFriendsBook Purchase here