< Back Ron Keres This Book Is Perfect! Readers, please make sure you wash your hands before reading this book! Most people think that frogs are dirty and slimy creatures. But most people have probably not met Finn the Frog! Finn is the cleanest and tidiest frog you could ever meet. Finn is so clean and tidy he doesn’t want readers spoiling his pristine book. He doesn’t want their grubby little hands touching and staining the perfect, pure white pages. Finn’s book is perfect, and he would like to keep it that way, thank you. So, how can Finn stop readers destroying his perfect book? How can he stop them staining the pages with cheesy puff-stained orange fingers, purple grape juice drips, and sticky pink gum? But it gets worse, the stains and the drips and the gum, are attracting pesky, dirty little flies. Urgh, Finn does not know what to do! If he squishes the flies, he will make even more mess. If he tries to vacuum up the flies, he could create even more damage. What is a frog to do? Hmm, now let me think. What’s a frog’s favourite snack again? This Book is Perfect, by author Ron Keres, is a fun picture book about an adorable, but neurotic, little frog with an obsession with cleanliness and tidiness. I particularly enjoyed the participative element of the book, as Finn talks directly to the reader throughout. Finn’s increasing annoyance and frustration as readers mess up his pages, will humor readers of all ages. I really enjoyed the illustrations by Arthur Lin, and the gradual transition from pristine, perfect white pages, to bright, colourful, stained, pages. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: Another unique and funny picture book, by a talented author-illustrator duo. Purchase here

< Back Bryan Mendoza Luzon Niko and the Mysterious Wave Book blurb... Niko loves spending time by the sea with his grandfather, Tonyo. But when he discovers a mysterious wave carrying a message from the ocean, he embarks on an unforgettable journey of courage, kindness, and environmental stewardship. Inspired by the beauty of the Philippines, this heartwarming story encourages young readers to care for the world around them while discovering that even small actions can create waves of positive change. Purchase here

< Back Miranda Thomas Five More Minutes Sweet P Sweet P asks for five more minutes before bedtime. It is 7.30pm, and time for Sweet P to go to sleep. But Sweet P isn’t quite ready to go to sleep just yet. She asks her mom for ‘Five more minutes, please.’ Her mom agrees to let her draw and play for five more minutes, but when the time is up, Sweet P asks for five minutes more. Her mom lets her dance, prance and jump for an extra five more minutes, but again after five minutes are up, Sweet P still isn’t ready to go to sleep. Her mom lets her run and play for only five minutes more. Sweet P pleads for another five more minutes, and mom agrees to sing to her for a while. After five more minutes, Sweet P is tired, but this time, mom needs five extra minutes to sing just one more song. Five More Minutes Sweet P is a sweet, illustrated picture book by Miranda Thomas about a little girl named Sweet P who does not want to go to sleep. Determined to stay awake and spend time with her mom, Sweet P pleads for five more minutes, to draw and play, dance and run, and sing songs. Young children and their parents will relate to the story, and the familiar bed-time battle to get young ones to sleep. There is a heart-warming twist at the end of this book, as mom asks for five more minutes to sing to her daughter. This is an excellent bedtime story, with a charming protagonist and enchanting illustrations by Stefanie Geyer. It is sure to become a bed-time favourite. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A fun, sweet and heart-warming picture book that captures the familiar bedtime struggle. Purchase here

< Back Janet Lau The Little Grey Pig: A Story About Self-Confidence Little Grey Pig has a big challenge to create something beautiful for a special garden party, from author Janet Lau Little Grey Pig goes shopping and finds aeroplanes and beautiful dresses in the store. But Little Grey Pig has no money to buy a new aeroplane or dress, and no money to buy tools or materials. So Little Grey Pig comes up with a great idea – she decides to create them herself, with resources she already has at home. She spends hours and hours building and making, but when her projects are complete, Little Grey Pig isn’t too happy. Her aeroplane falls apart mid-air, and people make fun of her home-made dress. A wise owl, Owletta, provides comfort and support, and gives the Little Grey Pig a big challenge – to build new aeroplanes and create a new dress for a special garden party. This is a lovely story about a creative little pig who is determined to create something beautiful herself, but when things don’t quite go to plan, she has the strength and courage to carry on. The book will encourage young readers to be proud of their achievements, no matter how small. It will encourage children to learn from their mistakes and to persevere when things might get tough. The book shows that things don’t have to be perfect to enjoy them, the best creations are the ones made from hard work and love. We loved the adorable characters, beautifully illustrated by Angela Gooliaff. With supporting notes and activities for readers to complete in the book, the book will help to develop confidence and self-esteem in young children. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A lovely story about a creative little pig who has the strength and courage to carry on, when things don’t quite go according to plan. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Kate Seng Mazie's Full Heart: An Adoption Story Mazie's Full Heart highlights the natural curiosity of an adopted child. Mazie's desire for clarity allows her to realize just how much she loves the only family that she knows and that includes Noodle, her favorite pet! Purchase here

< Back Freya Novak At the Ragtag Hotel: The Elevator Ride Freya Novak’s at the Ragtag Hotel: The Elevator Ride is a delightful and whimsical tale that takes readers on a charming journey through the bustling Ragtag Hotel. The story is centered around Dallas Dingo, the hotel’s cheerful and resourceful elevator operator, who navigates a sweltering day with a smile as he helps a colorful cast of animal guests reach the mysterious fourteenth floor. The story begins with Colin Capybara, who sets the tone with his humorous complaints about the heat. As the elevator fills up, readers are introduced to a diverse group of characters, including Oona Ostrich, Queenie Quokka, Tiny Tarsier, Amie Armadillo, and Oma Okapi. Each animal brings their own quirks and personality to the story, creating a lively and entertaining dynamic. The dialogue is playful and engaging, with each character greeting Dallas in their native language, adding a multicultural touch to the tale. Anastasiya Halionka’s illustrations are vibrant and full of humor. The expressive depictions of the animals and the bustling elevator bring the story to life. A perfect read for children and families, offering a blend of humor, vibrant illustrations, and a heartwarming message. The book’s playful tone and diverse cast of characters make it an engaging and inclusive story that will leave readers smiling. Freya Novak’s storytelling, combined with Anastasiya Halionka’s captivating illustrations, creates a memorable and enjoyable reading experience. Whether you’re looking for a fun bedtime story or a light-hearted tale to brighten your day, this book is a wonderful choice. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A delightful and funny picture book for young readers, with a charming cast of characters, and super illustrations. Purchase here

< Back A.N. Stewart The Shotgun Shack Kitties: Bill Bailey, Please Come Home A group of kitties embark on a musical adventure like no other. A group of kitties live in a beautiful little shotgun shack in Gentilly, New Orleans, with their human, Eartha. One day, when Eartha is at work, a cat named Bill Bailey is playing outside when a butterfly lands on his nose. Bill Bailey follows the butterfly down the street and greets his neighbors, but none of them can understand him. He meets a couple of elder cats, who tell him they have a secret way to make all humans understand cats. They explain that the secret is in the power and language of music. The elders offer to teach Bill Bailey, and all the other kitties, how to play music. The kitties meet at the old oak tree and choose their musical instruments. When Eartha returns home, she is surprised to find all the kitties are gone. Sad and worried, Eartha goes out to search for the kitties and sings a song to bring them home. As she sings, she hears music and finds the shotgun shack kitties moving through the neighborhood in the tradition of a brass band parade, playing “Bill Bailey, Please Come Home.” The Shotgun Shack Kitties: Bill Bailey, Please Come Home is a delightful picture book by author A.N. Stewart about the adventures of Bill Bailey and other kitties who live in a little shotgun shack in Gentilly, New Orleans. Based on a real cat named Bill Bailey and other cats who live with the author in a shotgun house in New Orleans, the book features the song "Won't You Come Home, Bill Bailey" written by Hughie Cannon in 1902. This is a sweet and endearing picture book, which provides a great introduction to New Orleans and jazz music. With an adorable cast of feline characters, and set in glorious New Orleans, this book will enchant readers of all ages. The book will leave readers tapping their toes and humming along to the sweet sounds of jazz music. The colorful, vibrant illustrations by Virginia de Mahy bring the characters and the sights and sounds of New Orleans to life. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A charming tale of feline musicianship, set in the heart of New Orleans. Purchase here

< Back C James Sweeney Sadie Sasquatch has Big Feet Sadie Sasquatch finds a sporting match. Sadie Sasquatch loves going to school and learning new things. She loves story time, and arts and crafts, and she especially enjoys nap time. But her favourite time is recess! She loves to climb and jump, swing and slide, spin and play. But, as a sasquatch (bigfoot) sometimes Sadie’s big feet get in the way. They get tangled in the skipping rope, smudge the chalk on the hopscotch board, and get in the way when she plays basketball. Sadie’s friends are not happy, and Sadie is sad they do not want to play with her anymore. Over in the field, Sadie notices a group of friends playing kickball and joins in. But when she is picked last for the team, Sadie thinks it is because of her big feet. When it is her time to kick, Sadie grits her teeth and kicks the ball as far as she can. She lands a home run and helps her team win the game. As Sadie teaches her dad her new skills, she soon realises kickball is the perfect sport for a little (and big) sasquatch. Sadie Sasquatch has Big Feet by C. James Sweeney is part of a book series about a little sasquatch and her adventures at school. Sadie is different from the other children, and sometimes feels like an outsider. In this book, Sadie realises that her big feet are not great for many activities. However, they do not stop her from joining in and having fun. As she tries lots of different activities, she joins a group of friends playing Kickball. Sadie learns that she has unique skills, and finally finds an activity that she likes and is good at. The book teaches children important life lessons about perseverance, self-acceptance, and the importance of harnessing one’s own strengths. It reminds children that it is okay to be different, and it will encourage children to find an activity that is a good match for their own unique qualities and talents. It will help to develop inner-strength and confidence amongst young readers. Sadie is a cute, funny, and relatable character, and her story and school experiences will resonate with many young readers. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A charming picture book about a little sasquatch who finds her confidence and skills-match on the kickball field. Purchase here

< Back Adalgisa and David Nico Frogs on the Mountain: The Mountain Yellow-Legged Frogs in Yosemite Adele is visiting Yosemite National Park with her mom and dad. But as she tries to settle down to sleep in her hammock for the night, she is kept awake by a strange ‘kraak, kraak, kraak’ sound. The next morning, Adele asks a ranger about the strange noise, and discovers the sound was from mountain yellow-legged frogs. The ranger explains that the frogs nearly became extinct when trout were introduced into the river and ate the tadpoles and frogs, dragonfly larvae, and other insects that frogs relied on for food. Adele learns about the frogs habitat, defense mechanisms, breeding patterns, and how tadpoles develop into frogs. The ranger explains how the frogs made a comeback in Yosemite, and how they thrived once the trout were removed from some of the lakes. Adele learns that the mountain yellow-legged frogs are connected to other creatures in the ecosystem, and each species is reliant on the others for survival. Frogs on the Mountain: The Mountain Yellow-Legged Frogs in Yosemite is an illustrated children’s picture book by authors, Adalgisa and David Nico. The book provides a fascinating insight into the mountain yellow-legged frogs, an endangered amphibian species that can be found in the lakes in Yosemite National Park. With lots of fascinating facts, and glorious illustrations by Andy Atkins that capture Yosemite’s breath-taking scenery, this book brings the little known frog species to life. Through Adele’s exploration of the park, children will learn about the challenges these tiny amphibians face in their natural habitat and the importance of conservation. Adalgisa and David Nico do an excellent job at balancing a conservation message with an engaging storyline. A wonderful addition to any bookshelf. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : An inspiring story, which will help children learn about these fascinating amphibians, the role they play in the ecosystem, and the importance of conservation. Purchase here

< Back Joseph L Licari Mia's Marvelous Farm Adventure Mia and her three mouse friends—Squeaky, Speedy, and Nibbles—explore the farm and have fun learning new words. The author cleverly uses rhymes and wordplay to introduce children to the concept of homophones—words that sound the same but have different meanings and spellings. For example, the book explains the difference between ‘pear’ and ‘pair,’ ‘knight’ and ‘night,’ and many more. These lessons are woven into a fun and enjoyable story, making it an excellent resource for building vocabulary and literacy skills. Mia’s journey to understand homophones is guided by big sister, Pia, who serves as a wise and supportive mentor. This sibling dynamic encourages young readers to seek help and learn from others, fostering a positive attitude towards learning and problem-solving. Mia’s Marvelous Farm Adventure by Joseph L Licari is a charming and captivating picture book, and part of a series that aims to teach young readers important language concepts. The illustrations are vibrant and cheerful, perfectly complementing the tone of the book. The images bring the farm and its characters to life, making the story visually appealing and engaging for young readers. The playful depiction of the mice and their antics adds an extra layer of charm. The rhymes are catchy and memorable, ensuring that the lessons learned stick with young readers. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A charming and captivating picture book that will entertain and educate young children, and spark a life-long love of language and learning. Purchase here

< Back Billy Baldwin Orbit's Monster Nebula Beware, Author Billy Baldwin creates a monstrous world like no other. Have you ever wondered where monsters come from? The abdominal snowman? King Kong? The Loch Ness monster? Orbit’s Monster Nebula will take you on a journey through far distant galaxies to a planet like no other. A planet where only the bravest space travellers dare to venture. A planet where monsters are born. Big ones, small ones, pink ones, green ones, furry ones, slimy ones. Any kind of monster you dare to imagine was born on this planet, in a scare factory by young Orbit and the Astroblast family. But when Orbit notices his monsters are disappearing, he sets off on a treacherous journey to Earth to capture the monsters and bring them home. Will Orbit succeed in his mission? Or will the monsters escape and wreak havoc on planet Earth? This is a super scary, imaginative picture book that will appeal to intrepid monster hunters and wanna-be galaxy travellers. Baldwin creatures a horrifying but very humorous fantasy planet that will have young children shaking in their boots. The illustrator Liesl Bell is an outstanding talent. The wonderfully detailed, vibrant illustrations really capture the imagination and bring the terrifying creatures to life. Children will love pouring over the intricate images of the fantasy world and the disgusting creatures that inhabit it. We cannot wait to read more adventures or Orbit and the Astroblast family. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A super scary, imaginative picture book that will have young children shaking in their boots. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Jacqueline Priestly Life with a Parrot Brynn loved the idea of living with a parrot. A best friend that could perch on her arm. But the reality of living with a parrot was very different. The constant babbling. The endless chatter. The repetition of every single word. The yap, yap, yap! Brynn’s head hurt and her ears ached. All she wanted to do was play with her new friend and have a little bit of peace and quiet. She even bought her parrot a karaoke machine, but the screeching was too loud. Living with a parrot was way too tough! But one day, Brynn had an idea. She didn’t want to lose her friend and decided to give her praise every day. By sharing positive affirmations, her parrot repeated them with a soft sweet glow. When the parrot’s words were spoken with meaning and kindness, all the other noise and chaos faded away. Brynn soon learned to accept her parrot, the loud shrieks, and silly squawks, and appreciated the time chatting, giggling, and sharing stories together. Life with a Parrot is a sweet and charming illustrated picture book, by author Jacqueline Priestly. Written in playful rhyme, and featuring a cute and slightly mischievous parrot, the book will appeal to young children who love animals and enjoy funny stories. Children will laugh out loud at the chaos the parrot brings to Brynn’s home but will soon learn to love the adorable bird. With a subtle message about the importance of respecting differences, accepting others the way they are, and the power of positive words. The illustrations are bright and expressive, perfectly capturing both the noisy energy of the parrot and the emotions of the little girl. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A heartwarming and clever story that teaches young children how positive words can transform difficult situations. Purchase here