< Back Louis Papadakis Gertie Braves the River Set in the picturesque savanna, Gertie Braves the River, follows the journey of a giraffe named Gertie, who becomes stranded when a river blocks her path. Gertie must find the courage, determination, and strength to find a different way to cross the river. She tries to cross the river by herself, but it is too difficult. With support and encouragement from her friend Yank, and inspired by a group of monkeys, Gertie decides to build a raft using vines. With grit and grace, Gertie makes another attempt to cross the river. Gertie Braves the River is a beautifully illustrated, funny, and inspiring children's picture book by author Louis Papadakis. The story follows Gertie, a gentle and lovable giraffe with big dreams and an even bigger heart, as she faces the challenge of crossing a daunting river. Gertie's journey is relatable for readers of all ages, as she struggles, learns, and ultimately triumphs by finding strength within herself. The introduction of Yank, a wise and supportive character, adds depth to the narrative, reminding readers of the importance of guidance and reflection. Papadakis' illustrations are magnificent, bursting with color, comedy, character, and charm. Written in playful rhyme, this is a fun, read-aloud experience for adults and children alike. Overall, Gertie Braves the River is a sweet, funny, and heartwarming tale and a wonderful addition to any child's bookshelf. Highly recommended for families, educators, and anyone who loves a fun story with a positive message. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A sweet, funny, and heartwarming tale about a gentle and lovable giraffe with big dreams and an even bigger heart. Purchase here

< Back Deanna Chesley What If We Had A Pet Shark? A fun, rhyming, picture book by author Deanna Chesley, with a rather terrifying question. What if…? Ellie returns from a field trip to the zoo. She has a very big and quite terrifying question. A question, she is too afraid to ask. A question, she is too afraid to know the answer. What if we had a pet shark? Ellie reluctantly asks her momma. Or a crocodile, a giraffe, or a skunk? Ellie imagines what might happen if she brought home some scary and very unusual pets. Will they help around the house, or will they create mess and chaos, Ellie ponders? As she snuggles down to sleep with her beloved pooch, Ellie soon realises that the best pet is the one snuggled up right beside her. This illustrated picture book will have younger children laughing out loud and squirming in their seats! The story is based on a typical question that a young child might ask, and will help spark the imagination and further conversations. What if…? Written in rhyme by Deanna Chesley, with stunning, vibrant illustrations that will entice younger readers by Roksana Barwinska. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘This fabulously fun picture book will have children laughing out loud and squirming in their seats. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Katie Laprade Magical Things Magical Things by Katie Laprade is an illustrated picture book which aims to build self-confidence, positivity, and a sense of self-worth in young readers. The book combines affirmations with poetic imagery to inspire children to embrace their unique qualities and strengths. The affirmations are written in rhyme, making them easy for children to read and remember. Each affirmation highlights a positive trait, such as bravery, kindness, intelligence, and creativity, while using relatable and vivid metaphors like "I am brave, like a lion in the night" and "I am creative, like a working honeybee." The book's tone is uplifting and nurturing, fostering a sense of safety and belonging. The book's structure is simple yet effective, with each affirmation standing alone as a powerful statement. This format allows readers to focus on one positive message at a time, making it ideal for young children who may benefit from repetition and reinforcement. The affirmations culminate in a broader message of readiness and magic, encouraging children to embrace life's challenges with confidence and creativity. Overall, this book is a meaningful resource for children, promoting self-love, resilience, and positivity. Its affirmations are simple yet impactful, making it a delightful read for young audiences and a helpful tool for fostering emotional growth. Star rating: 4 Stars Summary : A heartfelt and empowering work that uses affirmations to instil positivity and self-confidence in young children. Purchase here

< Back Linda Harkey Chatty the Hen Pheasant: Travels with the Pack Nassau finds an unusual and extremely talkative specimen hidden under the snow, by author Linda Harkey Cimaroc Lucky Nassau (or Nassau for short) is a Labrador Retriever, and a fearless hunter. One day, whilst out hunting pheasant with his owner the ‘Great One,’ there is a ferocious snowstorm. Nassau is separated from his owner, but undeterred he carries on the hunt alone. He sniffs out a pheasant under the snow and dives in head-first to retrieve the specimen. As Nassau pulls it out of the snow, he is presented with a rather strange – and extremely chatty - bird. Nassau carefully holds the bird between his teeth and begins his search for the ‘Great One.’ But the ‘Great One’ isn’t too pleased with Nassau’s discovery because he has inadvertently captured a hen pheasant, which is protected from hunting. The ‘Great One’ promptly releases the bird to the sky. This is an entertaining and educational story about a working dog, who performs an extremely important job for his human owner. Harkey shows the close bond between human and canine, and their relationship is beautifully captured in the illustrations by Mike Minick. Children will enjoy reading this story from the dog’s unique perspective, and will laugh at his frolics in the snow and his interactions with the very chatty bird. Whilst the bird is unharmed and released by the dogs’ owner, the pretext of this book is the hunting of pheasants to kill, which could upset or scare some young children (particularly in communities where children are not exposed to hunting). Parents reading this story might want to be prepared to answer questions about this type of activity and why it happens. The author might also want to consider adding some additional notes or resources, to support parents with those conversations. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘An entertaining and educational story about a working dog, who performs an extremely important job for his human owner. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Katherine Lockwood Why Me Mama A Childrens Book About The Disability Experience A little owl has a big worry. It’s Rose’s birthday and she is planning a party, but she is not looking forward to the celebrations. She is afraid her friends will not want to come to the party because she is different. Her mom explains that she felt different from her friends too, but people couldn’t see her difference. Some differences can be seen, but others cannot. So, Rose decides she wants to invite everyone, and as she hands out her invitations, she learns that many of her friends have differences too. Some of the differences are visible, but some of them are not visible. As Rose prepares for her birthday party, she learns that sometimes her friends have to find new ways of doing things, but it does not stop them from joining in and taking part. Rose also learns that some of her friends cannot attend her party because it is just too difficult for them, but she makes sure they still feel involved by sharing her birthday cake with them. The day of the party arrives, and Rose is looking forward to the celebrations. Rose understands that many of her friends have differences, and their differences make them who they are. She soon realises they are all wonderful and unique, and so is she. Why Me, Mama? A Childrens Book About The Disability Experience by author Katherine Lockwood is a beautifully written and illustrated picture book, about Rose who is worried about being different but learns to accept and love her differences. This is a powerful and inspiring story about a little girl, told through the eyes of an adorable owl. Featuring a variety of charming woodland creatures with human characteristics, young children will be able to connect with their emotions and experiences. The book will help young children learn the importance of equality, diversity, and inclusion, of accepting people the way they are, and of celebrating their individual differences. An excellent choice for parents and educators to explore themes of self-acceptance and friendship with young readers. The enchanting illustrations by Evgeniya Erokhina, complement the story perfectly, capturing the owl’s changing emotions and the delightful woodland setting. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A beautifully written and illustrated picture book, which explores themes of self-acceptance and friendship. Purchase here

< Back Ron Keres It's Not That 'Big a Deal' Author Ron Keres reminds us to keep things in perspective, in It’s not that ‘Big a Deal’ The smallest things can often cause the biggest stress, for both adults and children. Spilling something, forgetting something, making a mess, or making a mistake. These things happen and are frustrating, but there are much more important things in life to worry about. So, in the grand scheme of things, it is not such a big deal, is it? Keres reminds us not to worry about the little things, but to focus instead on what is really important in life, such as family, love, togetherness and being there for one another. This is a cute, well written children’s picture book. Both children and parents will enjoy reading this together and will relate to the real-life situations presented by Keres. A number of typical scenarios are presented, such as accidently spilling the milk on a table, or dropping a lamp on the floor in a store. It will encourage conversations between children and parents that everyone makes mistakes, that it is okay to make mistakes, and we all need to try and learn from our mistakes. It will encourage adults to reflect on their own behaviours and reactions to situations, and to remind them to stay calm and to keep things in perspective. Arthur Lin’s wonderful and funny illustrations bring the story and characters to life perfectly. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A cute children’s picture book that will encourage readers to focus on the important things in life. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Kathy Anderson Bailey's Belly Battle: A Time Machine Veggie Adventure for Picky Eaters Book blurb... Perfect for toddlers, preschoolers, and early elementary kids, this engaging story uses humor, heart, and kid-friendly science to help children explore new foods step by step: look, smell, touch, lick, bite, and chew at their own pace. Purchase here

< Back Todd Angilly and Rachel Goguen The Adventures of Owen and the Anthem Singer Little pug Owen follows his dream, by authors Rachel Goguen and Todd Angilly Owen the Pug is a very happy little pup. He lives in Boston with his mom and loves lots of belly rubs and yummy treats. His favourite game is ice hockey, and he likes to play in goal with his other pup friends. Little Owen has a very big dream. A dream to drop the puck at a big hockey game. So, when Owen gets the opportunity to drop the puck for his favourite team, alongside his friend Todd who will sing the national anthem, he cannot wait! He practices his technique all week, but when the day finally arrives, Todd is nervous. He sees the large crowd of fans and worries he might make a mistake. But, with a little support and encouragement from Todd, Owen finally realises his dream. He drops the puck perfectly, and Todd sings the national anthem perfectly too. The crowd clap and cheer, as the pair join the other hockey fans to watch the game. Owen and Todd, proud of their own achievements, are welcomed and treated like stars by the adoring fans. The Adventures of Owen and the Anthem Singer by Rachel Goguen and Todd Angilly is a sweet and engaging picture book about an adorable little pug with a big dream. Owen is determined and works hard. He practices every day, and with a little help from his friend, finally achieves his dream. There are positive messages in this story about commitment, hard work and friendships. The book shows that hard work pays off, and will inspire young children to follow their own dreams. With bright, cartoon-like, digital illustrations, and an adorable pup character, this book will appeal to those who love dogs and those who enjoy sports, particularly hockey. A wonderful and entertaining read, with positive messages for children and adults alike. Star rating: 5 stars Summary: A sweet and engaging picture book about an adorable little pug with a big dream, with a positive message for children and adults alike. Purchase here

< Back Charly Froh How to Solve the Mystery of Crying Space-robot Novo travels to earth to solve a mystery, by author Charly Froh Space robot, Novo, from the planet Infinita, is back for another exciting adventure. His week starts with shopping at the Martian Market, but on his way home, Novo is caught up in a space storm that destroys his venus-bot flowers, and causes liquid to leak from his laser eyes. Novo tries everything to make the liquid stop, but nothing will stop the drip-drop dripping. His only option is to contact his earthling friends. They will know exactly what to do! So, Novo whistles for his scooter, vrooms towards earth, and is reunited with his earthling friends. The earthlings explain the liquid is tears from crying, and people can cry when they are happy, joyful, angry or frustrated. But, Novo still cannot explain his tears as he feels neither happy, joyful, angry or frustrated. The earthlings listen to Novo’s story, how the space storm destroyed his precious flowers, and how he feared the rain would rust his body, and then suddenly the tears stopped. With a little help from his earthling friends, Novo realised his tears were tears of sadness, and that talking about his sadness helped him feel much better. Novo returned back to Infinita to share his news with all the other space-bots. How to Solve the Mystery of Crying by author Charly Froh is a cute and funny picture book about an adorable little robot who travels to earth to solve the mystery of his leaking eyes. This is a delightful book and Novo is a sweet and adorable character, who will appeal to younger readers. The book deals with a complex topic in a really simple, engaging and age-appropriate way, and will encourage young readers to share and discuss their thoughts and feelings with others. The illustrations by Zuzana Svobodova are bright and engaging, and with lots of interesting and funny details, will keep readers entertained for hours. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A delightful picture book about a sweet and adorable robot character, who goes on a space-tastic adventure to solve the mystery of crying. Purchase here

< Back Wittingly Yours You can be anything (Yes! It's True) Wittingly Yours is a sweet and inspiring illustrated picture book, perfect for young readers and dreamers. The book encourages readers to explore different activities and careers, emphasizing the importance of following your heart and doing the things that you enjoy and make you happy. Written in lyrical rhyme, this is an uplifting and motivational picture book, exploring themes of ambition, determination, and self-belief. I particularly enjoyed the illustrations, which are charming, colorful, and engaging for young readers, and complement the text beautifully. Each career or aspiration, from being a pilot, astronaut, doctor, artist or baker, is accompanied with charming illustrations that will spark young readers imagination and curiosity. There are a diverse range of professions highlighted in the book, which will encourage children to dream big and explore various possibilities without judgement or limitation. The book reassures young readers that they are supported and loved no matter what path they might choose. The recurring theme of patience and trusting the process is a valuable lesson for young readers, teaching them resilience and the importance of taking their time to find their way. Overall, this is a delightful rhyming picture book, which will inspire young readers to follow their dreams. It is a perfect resource to help build confidence and self-belief in young readers. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A charming and beautifully illustrated, rhyming picture book, which will inspire young readers to follow their dreams. Purchase here

< Back Jessica Ann What If Roxy Book blurb... What if Roxy is a heartwarming journey that explores the challenges of childhood anxiety through the eyes of a young pup named Roxy. Faced with overwhelming "what if's," she discovers the power of resilience and the strength that comes from facing fears together with loved ones. This book is a beacon of hope for families seeking to support their little ones through the anxieties they may face, finding comfort in the knowledge they do not have to face them alone. Purchase here

< Back Michael L Curles Can You Touch Butterfly? Book blurb... On a warm summer day, five-year-old Erica and her dad set out for their favorite place: the local swimming pool. What begins as an ordinary Saturday quickly turns magical when a beautiful butterfly appears, dancing around them in the sunlight. Erica has always wondered if it’s really possible to touch a butterfly. Her dad says it is—if you’re still, quiet, and believe. What happens next becomes a memory she will never forget. In this heartwarming true story, father and daughter share a gentle encounter with nature that teaches Erica more than she imagined, not just about butterflies, but about life’s possibilities. With vivid illustrations and a tender father–daughter bond at its core, Can You Touch a Butterfly? is a story of wonder, belief, and the little moments that stay with us forever. Purchase here