< Back Leandra and Kevin Decoud The What If Book The What If Book is an illustrated picture book by Leandra and Kevin Decoud. The book presents a series of fun "what if" scenarios. "What if everyone had superpowers?" “What if money grew on trees?” "What if the ocean were made of ice cream?" “What if we could breathe underwater?” The book poses follow-up questions, encouraging readers to explore different possibilities and think outside the box, encouraging imagination and creative thinking. At the end of the book, readers are encouraged to imagine something wild and wonderful and consider their own "What if..." scenarios. Overall, this is a sweet and playful book, which gives young children the permission to dream wildly and see the world as full of possibilities. The tone is fun and light, the illustrations are bright and engaging, and the prompts are silly, serious, and surreal – and will inspire real conversations. Young children love asking, “what if,” and they will love exploring new possibilities and adventures through the prompts in this book. Recommended for families and educators who want to encourage creativity, silliness, and open ended thinking. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fun and laugh-out-loud picture book designed to spark imagination and encourage creative thinking. Purchase here

< Back Sheeba Varghese Mommy, Am I Indian Today? Two young brothers are getting ready for a wedding. They are dressing in traditional Indian outfits, called kurta pyjama’s and wear a type of scarf called a stole. The brothers always wear matching outfits for special occasions, and sometimes they match their mothers outfit, called a sari. One boy asks her mother, “Mommy, am I Indian today?” His mother takes out an old photograph album and tells him the story of how her parents came to America from the state of Kerala in India, many years ago. She describes how they emigrated to America in search of a better life and opportunities for their children. She explains that the boys are not just Indians when they wear their traditional Indian clothes, but they are Indians every day. The brothers feel proud when they leave the house in their special kurta pyjama’s. Mommy, Am I Indian Today? is an illustrated picture book by author Sheeba Varghese about two brothers who are attending a wedding and wear traditional Indian outfits, called kurta pyjama’s. The brothers are curious about the outfits, and it prompts a discussion with their mother about their heritage. The book introduces young readers to Indian culture and Indian wedding traditions, and addresses themes of identity, multi-culturalism and belonging. The book is an excellent resource for sparking conversations about cultural identity and family traditions. The water-color style illustrations by Tori Tilahun bring the vibrant Indian culture to life, and show the beauty and elegance of traditional wedding attire. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : An entertaining and educational read for young readers, and a wonderful celebration of Indian culture and heritage. Purchase here

< Back Kafilat Shobajo All The Things I Can Be A young girl named Kofo has big dreams. It is ‘Career Day’ at school and a young girl named Kofo is thinking about all the wonderful and amazing careers she could have when she grows up. Her parents have taught her the importance of education and she knows that she will have to work hard in any career. Her parents have also taught her the importance of self-belief, and everyday Kofo repeats positive affirmations to remind herself just how smart and strong she is, and that she can achieve anything she sets her mind to. She could be a teacher, a lawyer, a nurse or doctor, an architect, a farmer, or a plumber, and many, many more things. With hard work and determination, she could even be the first woman President of her country one day. All The Things I Can Be is an illustrated picture book by Kafilat Shobajo about a young girl who explores all the potential career options available to her. There are no limitations to her ambitions. She is strong and positive, and knows with hard work and determination, she will achieve her dreams. This is an engaging, positive and powerful picture book for young readers. It will inspire readers to think about a variety of different career options, the importance of those careers, and the benefits they bring. It will encourage young readers to think beyond typical gender-based careers and consider all opportunities. I particularly enjoyed the illustrations, the diversity of the characters and the images of Kofo in different roles. The book has a positive message for both girls and boys, and will inspire young readers to follow their dreams. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A delightful picture book about a young girl and the endless career options available to her. Purchase here

< Back C. James Sweeney Sadie Sasquatch Goes to School How will a little sasquatch fit in at school? It is Sadie Sasquatch’s first day at kindergarten. She is excited to make new friends, but everyone stares at her. Her backpack is homemade and different to all the other backpacks. Sadie wonders why everyone is staring at her and decides to make her classmates laugh by passing gas. Some children laugh, but others do not, and Sadie’s teacher is not amused. Sadie is embarrassed but determined not to let it ruin her first day at school. Sadie enjoys art class but is told off again for picking her nose with a paint brush. At snack time, Sadie makes a big mess, but shares her favourite food with a boy who doesn’t have a snack. When Sadie arrives at home, she tells her dad all about her first day and has a few things to teach him too! Sadie Sasquatch Goes to School by author C. James Sweeney is an illustrated picture book about a little sasquatch’s (bigfoot) first day in kindergarten. This is a funny and engaging picture book, that will delight young readers. Sadie has never been to school, and quickly learns what is appropriate and not appropriate. Sadie is a sweet, adorable, and slightly mischievous character. Young children will laugh out loud when Sadie passes gas in the classroom and picks her nose with a paintbrush. Sadie is ridiculed by her fellow classmates for being different, but she is resilient and shows kindness to her classmates by sharing her favourite food with another child. The book has an important message about equality, diversity and inclusion, and will help to develop kindness and compassion amongst younger readers. The illustrations are bright, engaging and captivating for younger audiences. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fun and laugh out loud picture book about a little sasquatch and her eventful first day at kindergarten. Purchase here

< Back Melissa Rousu Grandpa Loved Wild Things Grandpa Bill loves wild things, and loves to take his grandchildren outside to enjoy nature. He takes them into the snowy forest to find a snowy owl, and teaches them about owl habitats. Grandpa Bill also takes care of injured wild animals in his home. He looks after an injured eagle, and a racoon who has been abandoned by his mother. Grandpa Bill teaches his grandchildren about each animal, and how to take care of them. Another day, Grandpa Bill takes his grandchildren to a lake to look at the ducks. As the grandchildren get older, they spend less time with Grandpa Bill, until one day he joins the wild things he loved so much. His grandchildren remember what he taught them, and they teach their own children all about the wild things their grandpa loved. Grandpa Loved Wild Things by Melissa Rousu is a charming, illustrated picture book that explores the special relationship between grandparents and grandchildren, and the importance of passing down knowledge and stories through generations. Grandpa Bill patiently teaches his grandchildren about nature, and in time those children pass on the same learnings to their own children. The book has a gentle environmental message, encouraging young readers to explore the world around them, and to take care of nature. A perfect book to inspire children to get involved in outdoor activities and nature. Star rating : 5 Stars Summary: A charming, illustrated picture book with a gentle environmental message. Purchase here

< Back Ashley Wall Lucy and Her Unicorn Get a Sparkle Puppy Can Lucy and her best friend, Twinkle the Unicorn, show they are responsible dog owners? Lucy and her best friend, Twinkle the Unicorn, are going to get a new puppy from the dog shelter. The pair have been working hard to show Lucy’s parents they can be responsible dog owners, making sure they make their beds and clean up after themselves. When they arrive at the dog shelter, they meet a sparkly, Sparkle Spaniel puppy. Lucy is convinced Sparkle Spaniel is the one and convinces her mom to adopt the puppy. They take the puppy home and name her Zoey. Lucy and Twinkle soon realise that looking after a puppy is hard work and requires lots of patience, training and love. They play with her, and take her for a walk, but when they start to clean up their room, they discover the gate is open and Zoey is missing. They search everywhere, but Zoey is nowhere to be found. Eventually they find Zoey and Lucy has an idea to open up a Sparkle Spaniel Training School, to give Zoey the training and love she deserves. Lucy and Her Unicorn Get a Sparkle Puppy is a fun and sparkly picture book by author Ashley Wall about Lucy and Twinkle the Unicorn’s adventures with a new puppy, Zoey. While puppies look cute and are lots of fun, they are demanding and require lots of patience. Lucy and Twinkle must learn quickly to become responsible dog owners, and give Zoey the love, training and attention she needs to be a happy and healthy puppy. With lots of practical guidance for junior dog owners, and more than a handful of glitter and sparkle, this is a fun and entertaining picture book for readers who love imaginative stories, animals and adventure. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fun and sparkly picture book for girls and boys who love unicorns, puppies and anything that glitters. Simply, sparkle-tastic! Purchase here

< Back August E. Allen I Love Dandelions The difference between a weed and a flower is a judgment. It is a lovely spring day and Theodore W. Mouse is keen to go on an adventure all by himself. His mom wants him to stay close to home and asks him to take along his little sister, Mirabella (Bella for short). The siblings go out into the field and see millions of droplets of golden sunshine in the grass, as far as the eye could see. Theodore is curious and plucks at the stem of a golden light. He takes the droplet home to show his mom, who explains that it is a dandelion, a beautiful golden flower that is often called a weed. Dandelions are natures magic, explains mom. A few days pass and Theodore and Mirabella still don’t understand why dandelions are natures magic. So, the siblings head out into the field one evening and discover the droplets of golden sunshine are gone, but there are millions of little moons floating in the sky. Theodore plucks at the stem of a little moon and takes it home to show his mom. Mom explains that the moon is the magic. But there is more magic to come, when the little moons burst into millions of sparkly stars. I Love Dandelions is a magical illustrated picture book by author and illustrator August E. Allen, about mouse siblings, Theodore and Mirabelle, who go on an adventure and discover the wonderful metamorphosis of the dandelion plant. This is a cute story, with a sweet message about the beauty and wonder of nature, told through the eyes of adorable mouse characters. It shows that beauty is in the eye of the beholder - what is a nuisance weed to some, is a beautiful spectacle and nutritious food for others. The book will encourage young children to explore nature and see the beauty in all living things. The illustrations are exquisite, and I was drawn to this book by the stunning front cover. If you are not a big fan of dandelions, you will be after reading this delightful book! Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A magical illustrated picture book about the wonderful metamorphosis of the dandelion plant, with adorable mouse characters. Purchase here

< Back Amy Landgraf Good Night, Sweet Peas Will Grammy and Grampy Pea ever get their little peas to bed? Five little and mischievous Sweet Peas have fun playing in the garden, swinging from the vines, rolling in the mud, building a fort and digging for bugs. As one excited little pea zooms around the garden, the other peas take chase and try to catch him. But as night falls, Grammy Pea calls time on the fun and the five little Sweet Peas must clean up all the mess they have created. Grampy Pea helps the little peas brush their teeth and Grammy Pea reads a bedtime story. As the peas squeeze into their pod, they drift off to sleep. But as the peas dream sweet dreams, they are suddenly wakened by a rather unpleasant smell! Good Night, Sweet Peas (A Rollie Pollie Pea Book) by debut author Amy Landgraf is a delightful and fun picture book for younger readers, about five cute but very mischievous, little peas. Landgraf has created a fun setting for a picture book series, and unique and adorable little pea characters: Brie, Lee, Tea, Capri and Rollie Pollie. This is a wonderful read-together book, that might encourage little ones to wash up, and settle down for a cosy bedtime story with their loved ones and caregivers. Beautifully written in rhyme, with bright and vibrant cartoon like illustrations, this book will become a bedtime favourite for children and adults alike. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fun picture book, beautifully written in rhyme, with unique and adorable little pea characters. Purchase here

< Back Nabila Nawaz Milden and the Vanishing Numbers Milden loves to dream, paint and read. But math he finds difficult. Every time he has to solve a math problem at school, he cannot find the right numbers. Milden’s grandma explains that numbers come together to create patterns, just like colors mix to make beautiful paintings. So, Milden decides to find all the numbers he has missed, and his school friends help him in his search. Milden finds the missing numbers and the patterns soon become clear. But, when he meets the Number Monster, he discovers that he is not the only one to be afraid of math. As Milden’s confidence in math grows, he learns that math can be fun after all, and that patterns can be found everywhere, not just in the classroom. Milden and the Vanishing Numbers is a fun and educational picture book for young readers that introduces the concept of number patterns through an engaging story. The book follows a curious little boy named Milden, who struggles with math. As he begins to explore number patterns in the world around him, he learns to enjoy math. The books bright, playful illustrations make the number patterns come to life, and the simple, rhythmic text is perfect for early readers. A perfect resource to introduce young children to number patterns, and may help to improve confidence in math. Star rating: 4 Stars Summary : A fun and educational picture book to help young children develop confidence in math. Purchase here

< Back Christine Tussing Detective Stan the Crayon Man and the Missing Birthday Cake Can Detective Stan solve the mystery of the missing birthday cake? Detective Stan’s pink crayon glows brightly, which means there is an emergency in Colorful County. He races over to Pretty Pink’s bakery and finds Pretty Pink in distress. Someone has stolen the cake for Mellow Yellow’s birthday party. Detective Stan begins his investigation by interviewing all the crayons, but there are no signs of the cake, or the thief, anywhere. He searches the bakery and looks for clues. He finds messy sprinkles and purple drippy drops on the floor. He heads to Polite Purple’s home, but it can’t be her, as she was at the hair salon all morning. Detective Stan looks at all the different color combinations that make purple and considers whether two crayons worked together to steal the cake. Will Detective Stan find the culprit and solve the case? Will Mellow Yellow get a cake for his birthday party? And will Detective Stan get home before his mom notices? Detective Stan the Crayon Man and the Missing Birthday Cake by author Christine Tussing is a charming illustrated picture book. The book, written by the author when she was just eight years old, is a unique, creative, and playful story about a little boy who loves his crayons and loves to solve mysteries. When his crayons glow, he knows they need help, and he goes on an amazing adventure to Colorful County to help the crayons. Each crayon has a name and character based on their color, and the mystery clues are based on color-combinations. Young readers will enjoy following the clues and solving the mystery. The book will spark young children’s imagination, and will also help them to learn colour combinations. The illustrations by Izzy Bean are delightful. I particularly like how the two different worlds are represented – the real world where Stan lives; and the fantasy world of the crayons. I would love to see more adventures of Detective Stan! Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A charming and fun illustrated picture book that will spark young children’s imagination and creativity Purchase here

< Back Timothy Frazier Lauren The Cow A little cow with a big dream, by author Timothy Frazier Lauren, a Jersey cow, lives on a farm in the countryside. When she grows up, she wants to be a jumping cow. But cows don’t jump, her mum tells her. Undeterred, Lauren is determined to become a jumping cow. So, every day, Lauren trains very hard and climbs up and down the hill to make her legs stronger. Tim the Fox helps Lauren train, and she starts to jump over small obstacles, starting with a single blade of grass. As Lauren becomes more confident, she attempts to jump over a fence. But she is not quite ready, and crashes into the fence, headfirst. Lauren is sad, and doesn’t think she will ever become a jumping cow, but with a little help and encouragement from Tim, she picks herself up and starts training again. The other farm animals notice her training, and cheer her on. Little by little, Lauren gets stronger and stronger, and her jumps get higher and higher, until eventually she jumps high over the fence. But Lauren doesn’t stop there! What will she jump over next? And how high can she go? Lauren the Cow is a charming, illustrated picture book, by author Timothy Frazier, about a little cow with a big dream. Cows are not made for jumping, everyone tells her. But Lauren is strong, confident and determined. She doesn’t listen to those who tell her she can’t do it, and she trains hard to follow her dream. But Lauren knows she cannot achieve her dream on her own, and with a little help from her friend Tim and the other farmyard animals, Lauren does eventually succeed. She perseveres when others tell her it is not possible, and she keeps going despite setbacks. The book demonstrates that hard work pays off, and will help encourage young children to follow their dreams. It will help to develop confidence, strength and resilience in young readers. Lauren the Cow is a cute character, and the illustrations by Meritxell Andreu are delightful. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A charming picture book, with an adorable little cow, that will help to develop confidence, strength and resilience in young readers. Purchase here

< Back Corey and Carrie Webber Sofie Finds a Best Friend Sofie Finds a Best Friend, written by Carrie and Corey Webber and illustrated by Jeremy Vickneswaran, is a heartwarming children’s picture book that explores the themes of friendship, kindness, and perseverance. The story follows Sofie, an enthusiastic squirrel who lives in a cozy treehouse. Sofie’s greatest wish is to find a friend to share acorns and laughter at a tea party in her treehouse. The narrative takes young readers on Sofie’s journey as she invites a variety of animal neighbors—ranging from Badger the raccoon to Willow the horse and Gracie the giraffe—to join her for tea and play. Each animal, for their own unique reasons, politely declines Sofie’s invitation. Despite repeated rejections, Sofie remains kind, respectful, and hopeful, never letting disappointment dampen her spirit. This gentle repetition not only builds anticipation but also subtly teaches children about resilience and the importance of respecting others’ boundaries. The turning point arrives when Sofie meets Chip the chipmunk, who enthusiastically accepts her invitation. Their instant connection and shared joy reinforce the book’s central message: true friendship is found through kindness and patience, and it’s important not to be discouraged by setbacks. The story concludes with a touching reminder that the right friend is out there for everyone, and that kindness is the foundation of lasting relationships. The illustrations by Jeremy Vickneswaran are vibrant and engaging, bringing Sofie’s woodland world to life and making the story accessible and enjoyable for young readers. The book’s gentle tone, repetitive structure, and positive message make it an excellent read-aloud choice for parents, teachers, and caregivers. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A delightful and meaningful addition to any children’s library, offering both entertainment and valuable life lessons about friendship and empathy. Purchase here