< Back Leah Ingledew Meowl! Author and illustrator Leah Ingledew presents a version of Rome and Juliet for younger readers. Max is a dog and Mia is a cat, and they are very good friends. They like each other a lot. But in the city of Up, dogs and cats are not allowed to be friends. They are not allowed to meet, or talk or play. Dogs and cats are just too different to get on, or so they say in the city of Up. So Max and Mia decide to meet in secret, and every day at sunrise and sunset they play and have lots of fun. Until one day, they are caught, and a big wall is built to keep them apart. But Max and Mia are not happy to be separated and they run far away from their families and the city of Up. How will the two young friends cope away from the parents? And who will protect them now, when they are all alone and in the wilderness? This is a sweet and charming picture book, superbly written and illustrated by Ingeldew. It is a story about forbidden love and friendship, and the destructiveness of forced separation. The book is reminiscent of the story of Romeo and Juliet, but for younger children (and with a happier ending!). The more society pushes Max and Mia apart, the more they are driven to stay together. This is a deep and complex story, but told through dog and cat characters it will easily resonate with younger children. It will help children to learn that despite our physical differences, we are all the same, with the same desires to be happy, have fun, and seek friendships and love. It is a timely reminder for us all. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A story about forbidden love and friendship between two feline and canine friends. Superbly written and illustrated by Ingeldew. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Jacqueline Crann Being Different Is The New Cool Maddie learns to accept and celebrate her differences. A little girl named Maddie was born with a birthmark on her face and a white streak in her hair. Maddie’s unique features make her stand out, and sometimes people stare at her. Maddie loves to dance, but when she goes to dance class, she wears a hat to cover her head and hair, to avoid people asking questions or saying mean things. One day, when practising her dance routine, her hat falls off her head and onto the floor. Some of the children start laughing. The dance teacher, Miss Cherry, explains that everyone is different and the importance of treating people with kindness and respect. Miss Cherry reassures Maddie that her birthmark and hair streak make her cool and unique, and she should be proud of herself. When Maddie’s baby sister is born, Maddie discovers she has the same birthmark as herself. Maddie promises to teach her baby sister that being different is the new cool. Being Different Is the New Cool is an inspiring picture book for young readers by author Jacqueline Crann. The book follows a little girl named Maddie who has a condition called Poliosis, which causes a streak of her hair to turn white. At first, Maddie worries about what others will say and wears a hat to hide her hair, but with support and reassurance from her dance teacher, she soon learns to accept and embrace her difference. The arrival of her new baby sister also makes Maddie more determined to celebrate peoples’ unique qualities and attributes. The book is an excellent resource for parents and educators to open up discussion about diversity and self-acceptance with young readers. Young readers will learn the importance of equality, diversity, and inclusion, and of accepting people just the way they are. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : An inspiring picture book for young readers, and a wonderful celebration of diversity. Purchase here

< Back Paul Hock Snowflake the Christmas Beagle A year in the life of a little Beagle pup, by author Paul Hock Snowflake, a Beagle pup, was born on a cold November day, in a barn in Ontario, Canada. After seven weeks in the barn, Snowflake and his brothers and sisters were taken into the farmhouse. One by one, Snowflake’s siblings were taken away by visitors and friends. Snowflake and his brother, Grumpy, were the only remaining pups, and they hid under the Christmas tree, afraid they might be taken next. Their mom provides comfort, and their human owner, Tricia, reassures them that the puppies have gone to good homes. Tricia decides to keep Snowflake, and her brother, Don, keeps Grumpy. The brothers are relieved they will not be leaving the farmhouse. The two pups spent their first Christmas in the farmhouse and each pup got a new toy and chew sticks in their stockings. During Spring, the pups meet all the farm animals, including Brewster Rooster, Tommy Turkey, Chirpy the Chicken, and Bernice the barn cat. In summer, Snowflake and Grumpy liked to go on walks and chase wild rabbits, and in the fall, they meet a scary bear. On his second Christmas, Snowflake is reunited with his brothers and sisters, and he learns all about their amazing Beagle adventures. Snowflake the Christmas Beagle is an illustrated picture book by author Paul Hock about the first year in the life of a little Beagle pup. Born on a farm, and into a loving human family, this is a sweet and charming story about an adorable pup who loves to explore nature. With stunning, photography-inspired illustrations, by Paul Hock, this is a beautiful book that both children and adults will treasure. Caution, young children will fall in love with Snowflake, and might want to adopt their own pup! With lots of additional information about dogs and the Beagle breed, this is a wonderful book for readers who love dogs, Beagle’s and nature. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sweet and charming picture book, with stunning, photography-inspired illustrations, about an adorable Beagle pup. Purchase here

< Back Gail Kuhnlein How Happy Is a Lark A joyful exploration of similes, by Gail Kuhnlein How Happy Is a Lark? by Gail Kuhnlein is an imaginative and interactive collection of similes, brought to life through funny stories and vivid illustrations. Each page introduces a new simile and poses a question, which will engage, entertain, and educate younger readers. How silly is a goose? How quiet is a mouse? How angry is a hornet? The book cleverly combines wordplay with captivating visuals. Each simile is accompanied by a silly tale, and funny illustrations that bring the simile to life. ‘ How cool is a cucumber? A cucumber is so cool he always has a date on Friday night.’ The illustration depicts a dashing cucumber arm-in-arm with a date (fruit). How Happy Is a Lark? by Gail Kuhnlein is a simple, effective, and memorable way to introduce similes to younger children. The book demonstrates the fun and playful aspect of language and will help develop children’s vocabulary. With further ideas for parents, caregivers and teachers, the book will spark curiosity and creativity, and will encourage a love of reading and language among young readers. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sweet and silly collection of similes, beautifully written and beautifully illustrated. A delight to read. Purchase here

< Back Julie Stephens Mountain Mutts - Joy's Tale A wonderful tale of friendship, by author Julie Stephens This is a story about two dogs, named Winter and Spring. The two best friends were inseparable, wherever Winter went, Spring would follow. Winter and Spring loved to play and explore together, until the day Winter sadly passed away, leaving Spring sad, alone and confused. Then one day, a new puppy named Joy arrived in the household. Joy wants lots of attention, but Spring is not interested in the energetic newcomer. She misses her dear friend, Winter. Joy plays and sleeps alone, and waits patiently until Spring is ready to be her friend. Eventually Spring takes notice, and the pair become good friends. Spring teaches the young pup how to climb down the steps, how to cross the river, and how to fetch a stick. Now, Spring and Joy are inseparable, but Winter will never be forgotten. Mountain Mutts - Joy's Tale by author Julie Stephens is a wonderful picture book for young children, about the friendship and love that exists between dogs. Spring is despondent when her play mate and best friend Winter passes away. She is no longer interested in having fun or making new friends, but all that changes when she meets a lively little pup, named Joy. Joy helps Spring overcome her grief and shows her that there is still lots to live for. This is a poignant story about love and loss, beautifully told through the eyes of adorable dogs. The story deals with complex issues, such as depression and grief, in a way that younger children will understand and can relate to. The book will appeal to readers who love dogs, and may help those who have experienced the loss of a loved one. The book features beautiful photographs of three wonderful dogs, Winter, Spring and Joy. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A poignant picture book for younger readers about love and loss, beautifully told through the eyes of adorable dogs. Purchase here

< Back Ali Barclay The Tales of Charlie Wags: London Part of the Charlie Wags series, this book follows Charlie as he visits London, England. With a familiar introduction to the story, Charlie wags his tail and travels to London. His first stop is the grand Buckingham Palace, where the King and Queen of England live. Next, he visits Westminster Abbey, the church where Kings and Queens are crowned, and royalty get married. He see Big Ben, the big clock tower and has tea and scones in a fancy restaurant. He hops aboard a boat on the Thames River and passes under Tower Bridge, and he visits the great Tower of London where he sees the royal jewels. With a trip to Borough Market, and a ride on the London Eye, this is a trip Charlie will never forget. In The Tales of Charlie Wags: London by author Ali Barclay, a little pup takes a trip to London, the capital city of England. Each stop on the journey is brought to life with watercolour style, pastel illustrations that capture the magic of this special city. The story is a great addition to the series and encourages young readers to explore new places, and embrace new experiences and different cultures. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A pup-filled travel exploration of London. Joyful, colourful and full of adventure. Purchase here

< Back Lori Rotter Best Chef in Town Best Chef in Town by Lori Rotter tells the tale of Chef Romi Rabbit, a confident and somewhat self-absorbed chef, and her hardworking sous chef, Sam. The story unfolds as Romi enters a high-stakes cooking competition, only to find herself unprepared and reliant on Sam’s quick thinking to save the day. The narrative is fast-paced and filled with rhyming verses that make it enjoyable to read aloud. Romi’s overconfidence and her initial disregard for Sam’s contributions set the stage for a humorous yet meaningful lesson about teamwork. The turning point comes when Sam, despite being overlooked, steps up to create a unique chocolate pasta dish that ultimately wins the competition. Romi’s eventual acknowledgment of Sam’s talent and her decision to share the spotlight add a heart-warming conclusion to the story. The illustrations by Vaughan Duck are vibrant and playful, and the expressive characters bring the story to life. Duck’s ability to capture the chaos of the kitchen and the tension of the competition adds humor to the story. The book also includes a fun recipe for chocolate pasta, encouraging readers to try cooking. This interactive element is a clever addition, making the book not just a story but an experience that families can enjoy together. A perfect choice for young readers who enjoy stories about food and cooking. It is sure to make them giggle and leave them feeling inspired. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A delightful and engaging story about cooking, competition and the importance of teamwork. Purchase here

< Back Monique Stokvis THERE IS SOMETHING FISHY ABOUT ed A Gentle Introduction to Mental Health and Eating Disorders Monique Stokvis’s book, There is Something Fishy About ed, is a poignant and imaginative exploration of a child’s perspective on a parent’s struggle with an eating disorder. Through the use of fish metaphors and rhyming verses, the story delicately addresses the complexities of mental health and eating disorders in a way that is accessible and age-appropriate for children.The narrative follows a young child who notices changes in their mother’s behavior and emotional state, symbolized by the transformation of their family into fish. The mother’s eating disorder, personified as ed, is depicted as a storm cloud and a lurking presence, emphasizing the emotional turmoil and confusion it brings. The child and their sibling, Noah, navigate their mother’s struggles with love, understanding, and creative coping mechanisms, such as counting fish, dancing, and engaging in playful activities. These strategies not only help the children but also encourage their mother to seek professional help and embrace therapy. The book’s use of vibrant illustrations and relatable metaphors, such as fish representing emotions and mental states, makes it a powerful tool for initiating conversations about mental health with children. It also provides practical coping strategies, such as mindfulness practices, creative arts, and playful interactions, which can be beneficial for families dealing with similar challenges. The author’s note to parents and loved ones emphasizes the importance of seeking professional help for eating disorders and provides a list of resources for support. This adds a layer of practicality and guidance, making the book not just a story but a valuable resource for families. A must-read for families looking to address sensitive topics in a compassionate and engaging manner. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A heartfelt and educational book that combines storytelling with mental health awareness Purchase here

< Back Joanne Russo Insull Sarah and the Crows Clean Up A wonderful book by author Joanne Russo Insull about Sarah and her incredibly special feathered friends. Sarah has a rather unusual and rather special friendship with a murder of crows. Sounds scary doesn’t it, but actually crows are beautiful, friendly birds with an incredible talent. Every day, Sarah feeds the crows peanuts and provides fresh water for them to drink. The crows recognise Sarah, and they show their appreciation by offering her all types of weird and wonderful gifts. A feather, a tiny piece of tin foil, bottle caps and even a chicken bone! Sarah has an idea. If a tiny crow can pick up small pieces of trash, then collectively, humans and crows could make an enormous difference to the environment. So Sarah brings her friends together to help the crows clean up the park and recycle the trash. Sarah is given a Good Citizenship Award from the Mayor and the crows are rewarded with a big box of peanuts. The book provides extraordinary insights into the behaviours of crows, and how humans can learn from their ingenious ways of collecting trash. Inspired by real life stories of crows that have been trained to pick up trash, the author presents a novel way to clean up the environment. The book will inspire children to take care of wildlife and the environment. With supporting notes and additional resources for teachers and parents, the book will prompt further discussions about wildlife, the environmental impacts of waste and the importance of recycling. Beautiful, soft pastel illustrations by Kelly Artieri. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘This book will change your perspective on crows forever. A superb, entertaining, and educational read for adults and children alike.’ A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back J.R. Buchta NORTH: A Magical Friendship Story Set in the enchanting North Pole, the story follows three old friends, the North Wind, the North Star, and the Northern Lights as they try to find new friends. They enjoy each other’s company and have lots of animal friends, but they would like new companions to brighten their frozen magical world. They think about all the different attributes of a good friend – kindness, helpfulness, loyalty, honesty, respectfulness, and friendliness. The North Wind, the North Star, and the Northern Lights work together and use their imagination and magical powers to create new friends using stardust and snowflakes. Out of the bright sky, lit by the Northern Lights, stirred by the North Wind, and dusted by the North Star, the three friends bring to life something extra special that will bring joy to the North Pole and children everywhere. NORTH: A Magical Friendship Story by author J.R. Buchta is a delightful and heartwarming story that celebrates friendship, imagination, and teamwork. The book emphasizes the importance of collaboration and creativity, showing how magic happens when friends work together. Erin O’Leary Brown’s whimsical artwork brings the snowy landscapes and magical characters to life beautifully. The surprise at the end of the story, adds an extra layer of excitement for young readers and sets the stage for future adventures. Overall, this is a beautifully crafted picture book that combines a magical storyline with stunning illustrations. Adults and children will enjoy this imaginative journey to the North Pole. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A delightful, imaginative picture book, with a timeless message about friendship, community, and collaboration. Purchase here

< Back Lori Rotter Breezy Bakes Her Best Breezy Bakes Her Best is a delightful children’s story that celebrates creativity, perseverance, and the discovery of hidden talents. The book follows Breezy, an eager little bear who is excited to help her parents prepare for the day at the Buttercup Bakery. From the very first pages, young readers are drawn into Breezy’s world of floury fun and kitchen mishaps, making the story instantly relatable for any child who has ever tried to help out and found themselves in a bit of a mess. The narrative is structured around Breezy’s earnest attempts to assist with baking, which quickly spiral into chaos—flour clouds, sticky eggs, and spilled salt abound. Rather than scolding, Breezy’s parents gently guide her, allowing her to try new things and learn from her mistakes. This supportive environment is a key strength of the story, modeling patience and encouragement for both children and adults. The turning point comes when Breezy discovers that while she may not be a natural baker, she has a real flair for decorating cakes. The story cleverly connects cake decorating to drawing and painting, making it accessible and inspiring for children who may have artistic inclinations. Breezy’s creative designs transform the bakery’s treats, and her parents’ pride in her unique contribution reinforces the message that everyone has their own special strengths. The illustrations, by Vaughan Duck, are vibrant and playful, perfectly capturing the energy and emotion of Breezy’s adventures. The expressive characters and whimsical details add depth to the story, making each page a visual treat. The book also includes an interactive element at the end, inviting readers to decorate their own cupcake, which encourages engagement and creativity beyond the story itself. The language is rhythmic and lively, making it ideal for read-aloud sessions. The story’s gentle humor and positive resolution make it both entertaining and reassuring for young readers. Breezy Bakes Her Best is a wonderful addition to any home or classroom library, especially for families who love baking, art, or stories about self-discovery. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A charming and uplifting picture book that encourages children to embrace their individuality, try new things, and find joy in their own unique talents. Purchase here

< Back Sasha Graham Whitney Wins Everything: A Tiny Ninja Book Competitive Whitney learns an important life lesson from her Tiny Ninja, from author Sasha Graham Whitney really does win everything. From football and roller staking, to running and jumping. She is the best at everything, and she knows it! Whitney’s Tiny Ninja tries to remind her that winning is not always the most important thing, but Whitney doesn’t always listen. Whatever it is, Whitney is determined to win. Until one day, Whitney is not invited to a party because her friends are worried that she will win all the prizes, and then her soccer coach changes the rules so her team cannot win the match. Whitney is confused but soon comes to realise that there are more important things than winning and maybe her Tiny Ninja was right after all. This is a charming children’s picture book, with a positive message about kindness and compassion. It reinforces the message that being kind and helping others to succeed feels good, and is just as rewarding as winning yourself. Some young children are extremely competitive by nature and hate to lose, and this book will remind them to focus their energies on having fun and building good friendships. An important life lesson for both children and adults. The illustrations by Angelina Valieva are colourful, whimsical, and extraordinarily detailed. Children will love to find the Tiny Ninjas hidden in the pictures. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A charming children’s picture book, with a positive message about kindness and compassion. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here