< Back Amy Lee Westervelt The Colors Inside of Me A little black and white panda discovers just how colourful he really is, by author Amy Lee Westervelt Panda loves art. He loves to draw and paint and create. One day, his teacher gives him an assignment to draw a picture of himself, using all the colours inside of him. Panda is confused, “All I am is black and white.” he sobbed. His teacher explains that all of the colours that exist are in both black and white, and therefore all the colours that exist are inside of him. He is black and white on the outside, but on the inside, he is calm like the blue ocean, passionate like a red rose, and happy like the yellow sun. With a little help from his teacher and friends, the Panda soon comes to realise just how amazing and colourful he really is. The Colors Inside of Me is a sweet and heart-warming picture book by Amy Lee Westervelt about a young panda bear and his journey towards self-acceptance. Children will love the fun, vibrant, detailed illustrations by Mandy Moore, and the cute panda bear and other animal characters. By focusing on our hidden strengths and inner beauty, rather than our physical appearance, this book will help to develop confidence and self-esteem in young children. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A sweet and heart-warming picture book about a young panda bear and his journey towards self-acceptance.’ A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Brenda Do It's Okay Not to Know Author Brenda Do encourages the development of positive learning mindsets in young children It's Okay Not to Know, by author Brenda Do, is a picture book that shows that it is okay not to know something, to have an uh-oh moment, or to make a mistake. It explains that it might be easy to feel down when something doesn’t quite go according to plan. But any challenge, no matter how big or small, is a great opportunity to learn something new, and try new things. It shows that learning new things makes you feel good, and encourages further exploration and discovery. It is like opening a surprise present and finding a special gift. It shows that it is also great to be able to help someone when they do not know something, and help them find the answers they do not know. This is a sweet and charming picture book by author Brenda Do. In essence, this story is about acknowledging and learning from failure, and using every experience as an opportunity to learn, grow and develop. Told in simple language, with two sweet characters, this book introduces younger children to the concept of positive learning mindsets in a fun and engaging way. It will provide reassurance to younger readers that it is okay not to know something or to make a mistake. It will help children develop confidence, self-belief and resilience, and will support the development of positive mindsets and learning habits for life. The illustrations by C.S Fritz are cute and colourful, and full of fun. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sweet and charming picture book that will help children develop confidence, self-belief and resilience. 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 Donna Wyland 'Twas the Night Before Jesus A rhyming celebration of the true essence of Christmas. ‘Twas the night before Jesus and all through the land, lived people not knowing that God would be man. 'Twas the Night Before Jesus is a skilfully crafted rhyming picture book, based on the famous festive poem by Clement Clarke Moore. Wyland refreshes the classic Christmas verse, to tell the story of the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The book provides a great introduction to the life of Jesus Christ and is accessible for readers of all ages. It begins prior to Christ’s birth and follows his journey from Bethlehem, to Egypt and Nazareth. It ends with a modern-day scene of a family sitting by the fire and sharing a book on Christmas Eve. “Happy Birthday to Jesus!’ and to all a good night.” Written in rhyme, with delightful and funny illustrations by Courtney Smith, this book will captivate both children and adults. I particularly enjoyed the charming, cartoon-like illustrations, and the characterisation of the animals and the baby Jesus. Inspired by the classic Clement Clarke Moore poem, Twas the night before Christmas, the book pays homage to the timeless original while reminding readers of the true meaning of Christmas. The book follows a similar rhythm and meter to the original poem, and readers will enjoy reading / singing this aloud. It has a comforting familiarity, while offering a biblical perspective on the original poem. Overall, the book beautifully captures the magic and wonder of the festive season, while reminding readers of the true meaning of Christmas. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A perfect bedtime story to share with younger readers on Christmas Eve. Purchase here

< Back Charlene McIver Medieval Mashup Leigh, Cosmo, and Tara are back for another fun adventure, from author Charlene McIver Three friends, Leigh, Cosmo, and Tara are planning their medieval costumes for the school fair. Cosmo wants to dress up as Robin Hood, and Tara is planning to dress up as Maid Marion. Leigh wants to dress up as knight in shining armour, but is worried it will be too heavy in his wheelchair and he might look silly. The friends joke and make silly suggestions for his costume, using a cardboard box, a plastic barrel, and pieces of wood. Fed up with all the jokes, Leigh confides in his friends that every day he looks different and all he wants is to look brave and strong. Tara and Cosmo reassure him, but question why he can’t be brave and strong, and also funny. So, Leigh decides to do something a little bit different, and to mash-up costume ideas to show his full personality. The friends join in the fun and three new medieval mash-up costumes are created. This book is the second instalment in the ‘Leigh’s Wheelie Adventures’ series, and it follows on from the first nice book nicely. Although, one doesn’t have to read the first book to enjoy the second. In the second book we see further development of the characters and their relationships. We learn a little bit more about Leigh’s personality, his worries, and anxieties. We also see the kindness and compassion of Cosmo and Tara, and whilst they like to joke and have fun, they are also very aware and sensitive to Leigh’s feelings. Another fun-filled instalment from McIver, with an important message of friendship and inclusion. With beautiful pastel illustrations by Caroline Keys, reminiscent of a time-gone-by. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A charming book about a young boy who just wants to fit in. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Mr Z The Mayfly and the Methuselah Tree The old Methuselah tree learns important lessons from his younger friend, from author Mr Z. The wise Methuselah tree stands high and proud in the White Mountains of Inyo County, California. Older than the ancient pyramids of Egypt, the Methuselah Tree is rather bored and very, very grumpy! He sees the same thing, day in, day out. Nothing ever changes, until one day a tiny, young, mayfly lands on the Methuselah’s leaf and changes his life forever. At first the Methuselah tree is annoyed by the mayfly’s intrusion and her youthful exuberance, but he soon realises that there is a great deal to learn from the younger generation. The young mayfly gives the older Methuselah tree hope and a new perspective on life. This is a sweet story of love and friendship, and of hope and gratitude. It is a reminder to us all to focus on the present, to show appreciation for the beauty of nature and all the good things in life, to seek love and friendships, and to learn from others’ experiences. This is a great intergenerational book for children to read with their parents and grandparents. It will help develop understanding and empathy in readers, both young and old. A joy to read, with captivating illustrations by Robert Askew. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A sweet story of love and friendship, and of hope and gratitude. It was a joy to read. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Samantha Reynolds Help Me Be Me A thought-provoking picture book about children’s emotional well-being, by author Samantha Reynolds. Help Me Be Me by author Samantha Reynolds is an engaging, powerful, and thought-provoking picture book about children’s emotional health and well-being. The book serves as a valuable resource for parents seeking to understand and foster their children’s emotional wellbeing. Written from the child’s perspective, the book follows the journey of a child as they navigate the world around them, and the complex landscape of emotions they experience. The story is accompanied by vivid illustrations, which depict the child’s feelings, needs and emotions. Through the story, parents can initiate meaningful conversations with their children about their feelings and emotions. The book provides valuable advice on how parents can support their children to be themselves, and how to express and manage these emotions in a supportive and healthy way. The enchanting illustrations by Jessica Hiemstra, make this book a must-have for every parent’s bookshelf. Whilst the book is primarily aimed at parents, the engaging artwork also serves as an excellent tool for helping young children recognise and understand their own feelings. The language is clear and accessible, making it easy for both adults and children to engage with the material. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A nurturing guide for parents, offering tools and insights needed to raise emotionally resilient children. Purchase here

< Back D Burton Smith Quoth the Raven Author D. Burton Smith offers a fascinating insight into the world of a young raven. Named after an Edgar Allan Poe poem, Quoth the North American raven lives high up in a nest on the edge of a cliff, overlooking the ocean. He is one of three chicks, and his mom and dad take good care of him and his siblings. They keep their nest fresh, clean, and tidy, and bring food for the chicks every day. Until he is two or three years old, and finds a partner of his own, Quoth joins a rowdy group of young ravens, called the unkindness of ravens. He enjoys dropping and catching objects from the sky, and he catches small animals, like mice, to eat. He likes shiny things, and often picks up objects that have been left by humans. One day, he meets a raven named Viola. After courting for many months, Quoth and Viola build a nest together and prepare for their own chicks. Quoth the Raven is a delightful and beautifully illustrated picture book by author D. Burton Smith, about the life of a North American raven, named Quoth. The book follows his journey from before he was born, his life as a chick and a young adolescent, until he meets a life partner of his own. Burton Smith describes the behaviours and habitat of this beautiful, and often misunderstood, bird. While often associated with death and illness, raven’s are one of the smartest birds in the world. They can use tools, play games, and mimic animal, bird, and even human sounds. Ravens can even recognise people and hold grudges against those who have wronged them! The illustrations by Paul Hock are stunning. Each page is a work of art, with vivid colours and intricate details that bring Quoth’s world to life. Written from the perspective of the raven, this is a charming story that will engage readers of all ages. While primarily aimed at children, the illustrations and story make it a pleasure to read for adults and children alike. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A delightful and beautifully illustrated picture book, that will spark children’s curiosity about the natural world and this magnificent species. Purchase here

< Back Adalgisa and David Nico Fish in the Desert: The Untold Story of the Death Valley Pupfish Adele’s adventure in the wetlands of Death Valley. Adele is visiting the Death Valley National Park with her parents. Unfortunately, Adele was injured playing soccer and her leg is in a cast. As she explores the salt crusted floor of an ancient lake, Adele cannot imagine anything could live in the Death Valley. But, when she notices pupfish swimming in the lake, she is keen to learn how they survive in the hot and salty conditions. Aquatic Ecologist, Marjorie, explains how the Salt Creek Pupfish are scientifically important creatures that have adapted over many years to the hostile environment. Of all the sea life creatures that once lived in the ancient lakes, the pupfish are the only ones to survive. Marjorie shows Adele other pupfish habitats and learns more about the endemic pupfish, and the many subspecies that live in separate islands of water. But there is still lots to learn about these resilient creatures, like how they manage to survive in the deep water caverns. Fish in the Desert: The Untold Story of the Death Valley Pupfish is a fascinating tale about the endemic pupfish that live in the Death Valley. The story is told through a young girl named Adele who visits the park with her parents. As the family explore the park, they are fascinated by the pupfish who survive in the wetlands, against all odds. They learn all about their history and habitat, and how they have evolved over many years into a variety of subspecies. With lots of interesting facts and figures, and further resources to explore, this book will educate readers about these fascinating creatures and the Death Valley National Park. The illustrations by Andy Atkins bring the stunning landscapes and creatures to life beautifully. The book will appeal to young readers interested in the natural world and conservation. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An insightful and fascinating book about the resilient pupfish, who survive against all odds in the inhospitable Death Valley National Park. 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

< Back Anna Kutishcheva Jake and Nick's Spooky Fall A spooky tale, with a couple of adorable canine characters from author and illustrator Anna Kutishcheva An adorable picture book about two canine friends and their fun-filled adventures. Jake wants to play. He is happy, confident, and energetic. He wants to jump and frolic in the leaves with his friend Nick. But Nick isn’t in the mood to play today. He is tired and a little scared. He sees monsters everywhere! In the closet, under the bed, and behind the shower curtain. Nick has nowhere to hide! Jake is not afraid of monsters. He reassures his friend there are no monsters, it’s just his imagination. But the dogs need to be on guard. Someone or something is stealing their kibble! Is it just Nick’s imagination? Or do monsters really exist? The story and the fear of the unknown will resonate with young children. Those sudden movements, unusual objects or unexpected sounds can often create such anxiety in little people. The book will provide comfort to young children that it is perfectly okay to be a little scared sometimes, but that not everything is as it seems. Things that might at first appear scary are usually nothing to worry about at all. Young children will love the adorable canine characters and their fun-filled adventures. They will laugh at Nick’s attempts to run away and hide as they discover the real identity of the ‘monsters.’ Kutishcheva’s illustrations are delightful. The whimsical, watercolour style illustrations bring the story and the characters to life, and will engage readers of all ages. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A super cute book, about two canine friends and their fear of monsters. A FINALIST and highly recommended. Purchase here

< Back Kateryna Dronova Let's Look, Not Touch A curious little boy is spending time with his mom on the beach, when he sees a little starfish washed up on the shore. He wants to catch the starfish, but his mom reminds him to look, not touch. The next day, the little boy is hiking in the forest when he finds a snake hidden in the grass. He wants to catch the snake, but his mom reminds him again to look, not touch. As the boy goes on more wildlife adventures with his mom, he learns the importance of protecting and caring for wildlife, by looking only and avoiding touching creatures in their natural habitats. But when it is the boy’s birthday, he finally discovers something extra special he can play with all day long. Let’s Look, Not Touch is an illustrated picture book by author Kateryna Dronova, about a curious and adventurous boy who loves spending time in nature. He wants to play with every creature he meets, but his mom gently reminds him of the importance of not touching and looking only. The message is delivered in a warm and reassuring way and encourages children to make thoughtful choices. The colorful illustrations bring each creature to life and add a touch of humor to the story. Written in rhyme, and with plenty of repetition, this book will help young children learn the importance of caring for and protecting nature. Overall, a delightful and charming read that is both fun and educational, making it an excellent choice for young readers who love animals and adventure. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A charming picture book about a curious little boy who loves exploring the natural world. Purchase here