< Back Karen B. Shea A Bug-Lightful Discovery Emelia discovers the wonderous world of bugs. Emelia is visiting Ms. Z when she finds an alien-looking critter on her step. She is about to stomp on the bug, when Ms. Z tells her not to. Ms. Z explains that all bugs have a purpose, and they deserve to live as much as everyone else. Emelia’s older sisters, Ellery and Jacqueline, agree with Ms. Z and explain that bugs are part of the web of life and are connected to everything else. That night, Emelia’s Grandma Jane gives Emelia a special book all about bugs, and Emelia learns how bugs help the earth and other critters. The next day, Emelia goes out to the meadow to explore these fascinating creatures. She learns how bees help pollinate plants, how hummingbirds use strands of a spiders web to build their nests, and how other birds catch beetles to feed their babies. She also learns that just because you can stomp on a bug, doesn’t mean that you should! A Bug-Lightful Discovery by author Karen B. Shea is a delightful and educational story about Emelia, a curious little girl, who discovers the wonderous world of bugs. With a little help from Ms. Z, her older sisters, and her Grandma Jane, Emelia learns the importance of bugs for life on earth. Many children dislike bugs and this book will help them understand the value and beauty of these little critters. Shea does a fabulous job of interweaving awareness of bugs and ecosystems, into an entertaining story for young readers. Through Emelia’s journey, children will learn about the web of life and the importance of respecting even the smallest of creatures. The charming illustrations by Luella Jane Wright bring Emelia’s character to life and complement the story perfectly. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A delightful and educational picture book that introduces young readers to bugs and ecosystems. Truly bug-lightful! Purchase here

< Back Edgar Garcia ALPHAKAZOO An A-to-Z book, with a fun twist. ALPHAKAZOO is a unique and fun, zoo-inspired alphabet picture book, featuring a variety of wild and wonderful creatures, from Ava the Alligator, to Ivy the Iguana, Ziggy the Zebra, and many more! Each letter of the alphabet introduces an animal character, in a silly and entertaining scenario. Ava the Alligator is dressed as an astronaut on the moon. Carla the Cow performs on a tightrope in the circus. Sienne the Spider surfboards with sharks. Each letter/animal is presented on a single page, captured beautifully in fun, vibrant cartoon-like illustrations. Young children will laugh out loud at the animals and the absurd and entertaining scenarios they find themselves in. The book will not only make learning the alphabet an enjoyable experience, but it will also stimulate children’s imaginations. This is a delightful picture book that can be enjoyed by children and adults of all ages, and the playful language, alliteration and wordplay make this a joy to read out loud. The humor will keep young readers thoroughly entertained, while at the same time helping them to learn the alphabet and develop language skills. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : Young children love silly stories, and they will love this fun, fresh, creative take on a traditional A to Z book. Purchase here

< Back Ashley Wall The Day I Had a Fire Truck Luke is busy cleaning out the garage one day, when he finds a big red fire truck parked outside his house. Inside the truck is a note from the firefighters asking Luke to find a crew and take over for the day. Luke, with his trusted dog Bobo by his side, sets out to assemble a crew. He picks up his friends, Noah, Mikey, and Emma, when the radio operator tells them that Mrs Lola’s cat, Fefe, is stuck in a tree. The four friends turn on the lights and sirens, and drive to the scene. Fefe is stuck in the tallest tree and the crew have to use the trucks aerial ladder to rescue her. After lunch, a report comes in of a fire near the park. The ice cream shop is at risk of burning down. Noah and his friends hurry to the park and find a trash can on fire. Can the young firefighters handle the machinery and put out the fire? Will the ice cream shop, and visitors to the park, be saved by Noah and his crew? The Day I Had a Fire Truck is an illustrated picture book by author Ashley Wall. Noah and his friends have the adventure of their life as they take over firefighting duties for the day. With a big red truck, a shiny helmet and a team to assemble, Luke must make sure the young firefighters are ready for action. This is a delightful picture book that captures the excitement of fire trucks and firefighters, through the eyes of a young boy. The engaging story encourages friendships, teamwork and problem solving skills. The book introduces young readers to firefighting terminology and safety tips, making it both an educational and entertaining read. A must read for aspiring firefighters, and children who enjoy role playing and other adventures. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A delightful and engaging picture book, and an excellent choice for young readers who dream of heroic adventures. Purchase here

< Back Vassi Rombis Story Swapping A Family Tradition Kali’s exciting storytelling adventure, by author Vassi Rombis It’s a big day at school for Kalianne (Kali), as it’s her turn for ‘Show ‘n Share’. She is a little nervous and has butterflies in her tummy, but she tells her classmates about her family tradition of reading stories with her mom at bedtime, snuggled under her story quilt. Kali’s mom tells her stories of all the amazing adventures she has at work and on her travels. Kali tells her teacher that she would like to share a story with her mom, but she has nothing interesting or exciting to share. Kali’s teacher reminds her of all the wonderful activities she has taken part in throughout her day at school, and Kali has an idea. She doesn’t want to tell her story like her mom, she wants to do something a little different, and decides to paint a picture of her story. Kali’s mom enjoys her story so much, that they start a new family tradition of story swapping, where mother and daughter both share their stories with each other at bedtime. Story Swapping a Family Tradition is a sweet picture book by author Vassi Rombis, about a little girl, Kali, who loves to listen to her mom’s stories at bedtime. But Kali is keen to join in the storytelling and would like to tell her mom a story. Struggling to find an idea for a story, Kali builds up the courage to ask a teacher for help, and comes up with a unique idea to share her story. This is a fun and engaging book, which will encourage young children to tell their own stories, in their own way, encouraging creativity, imagination and storytelling. With bright, digital illustrations by Frances Rose Español, and a cute, relatable, main character, this is a perfect bedtime story for little ones, and may even inspire families to start their own bedtime storytelling tradition! Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sweet picture book that will encourage young children, to tell their own stories, in their own way, encouraging creativity, imagination and storytelling Purchase here

< 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 Lori Hoffman Penna Catawampus: The Story of a Crooked Cat Catawampus was born with his front legs bent, so he stands on two feet. He lives all alone on the street, but he longs for a family of his own. One day, Catawampus is caught and taken to a cat shelter. The other cats at the shelter are mean, they laugh at his legs and tease him. So, Catawampus has an idea. He attempts to change his appearance, and disguise his bent legs. He thinks this will give him the best chance of being picked by a human and taken home. But his plan fails, and he starts to believe he will never find a new home. Then, a man sweeping up the trash at the shelter notices Catawampus. The man is old, grey and walks with a limp. He recognises himself in the cat and knows he just needs a friend. Will Catawampus ever leave the shelter? And will he ever find his forever home? Catawampus: The Story of a Crooked Cat is an illustrated picture book by author Lori Hoffman Penna about a stray cat with a physical difference, who unexpectedly finds himself in a cat shelter. The other cats are mean, and no-one wants to adopt a cat with crooked legs, but Catawampus is determined to find a new home. This is a heart-warming story about a beautiful, strong and determined cat. Just when he is about to give up hope, he meets a man who gives him the forever home he has been dreaming of. The book is a celebration of difference and diversity, and teaches young children the importance of acceptance, kindness, compassion and inclusion. A must read for children who love animals, and for anyone who has ever felt a little bit out of place. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A powerful and uplifting tale about a very special cat, and his journey from the streets to finding his forever home. Purchase here

< 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