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< 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 Cheryl Johnson Today I Learned About Birds A guidebook about birds, with words and photographs by Cheryl Johnson. Today I Learned About Birds is a guidebook about birds, where they live, what they eat, how they look and how they behave and communicate with one another. It explores their wide range of habitats, from the city to the country, and forests and deserts; the different bird species, from house sparrows to mockingbirds, and swans to owls; the food they eat, including seeds, fruits, and small animals; and much, much more. On each page there is a reader tip (including explorer tips, birding tips, how to identify birds, fun facts) to help readers learn more about birds and find great places to discover birds. The final section explores some of the challenges birds face, endangered species of birds, and how we can all help make things a little easier for our feathered friends. On completion of the book, readers are awarded a ‘Junior Ornithologist’ certificate. Today I Learned About Birds is a wonderful book about birds by author and photographer, Cheryl Johnson. With fascinating and fun facts about our feathered friends, and glorious technicolour photographs of birds in their natural environments, this is a great introduction to birds for younger readers. I am fascinated by birds and I love birdwatching, but I learnt many new things from this book. The book will encourage young children and adults to grab their binoculars and venture outside to watch these amazing specimens. With handy symbols and maps, to help readers look for birds in their own backyard, and a whole range of other resources, this book is a perfect guide for any budding ornithologist or nature enthusiast. Whilst aimed at young readers, this book is a great reference book for readers of all ages, and a super addition to any library. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A glorious book about birds and a perfect resource for any budding ornithologist. Purchase here

< Back Phyllis Harris The Gift Shop Bear A bear is for life, not just for Christmas! For most of the year, the little gift shop bear lives inside a box, in a dusty attic, above the gift shop. Once a year, at Christmas time, Annie takes him out of the box, to join in the Christmas festivities in the shop. Annie and the Bear fill the shop with fun and laughter, they help decorate the shop, drink lots of cocoa and listen to the Christmas carol singers. All the children that visit the shop want to take the bear home, but this special little bear is not for sale. He takes pride of place underneath the Christmas tree in the shop window. But, on Christmas Eve, the bear overhears a conversation that the gift shop is closing, and the bear is worried he might never see Christmas, or Annie, again. But the bear receives the most wonderful Christmas gift, as he finds a new home where he belongs and can be loved and cuddled, all year round. The Gift Shop Bear by author Phyllis Harris is a charming picture book for younger children about a little bear and his friendship with a little girl, Annie. The book will delight younger children, who will relate to the story, as they experience the joy of unpacking their favourite Christmas toys every year, and the sadness when they are all packed away. Beautifully written and illustrated by Phyllis Harris, this is a sweet, sentimental and nostalgic story, and I expect it will become a future Christmas classic. This book is a wonderful festive treat and would make the perfect Christmas eve story or Christmas gift. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sweet, sentimental and nostalgic story, about a little bear and his friendship with a little girl. Beautifully written and illustrated by Phyllis Harris. Purchase here

< Back Ginger Smith The Magic Blanket Jo Jo searches for a new home with her mom and her magic blanket. A little girl named Jo Jo carries her beloved magic blanket, as she looks for a new home with her mom. Together they walk the streets in search of a home, and sleep in the park one evening when they are unable to find a place to rest. But mom turns the search into an adventure, as they gaze at the stars in the night sky, and play in the park. Jo Jo meets a puppy and follows it to a warm cosy house. She wishes her magic blanket could find a warm house like the puppy’s. She meets a bird, who flies into a nest in a tree with her babies. She wishes her magic blanket could find her a happy home like the bird’s. She meets a little mouse, who runs into a hole in the wall. She wishes her magic blanket could find her a safe place to go like the mouse. Jo Jo’s mom comforts her and reminds her that home is where you feel love, and she will always be loved. As Jo Jo and her mom find space in a shelter one night, it is Jo Jo’s turn to comfort her mom. She reminds her mom, that home is where you feel love, and she will always love her. The Magic Blanket by author Ginger Smith is a powerful, heartbreaking, and endearing picture book about a little girl who is homeless and in search of a new place to live. Jo Jo’s magic blanket gives her hope that things will change for the better. The book is both sad and hopeful in equal measure. It highlights the devastating impact of homelessness on young children and families, but also demonstrates the unconditional love between parent and child. The book will provide comfort, reassurance and hope to children and parents who might be going through a similar situation, and will help develop understanding, empathy, and compassion amongst readers. The book deals with sensitive and complex issues of homelessness and disadvantage, in a simple way that young children will easily understand. It is an excellent resource for parents or caregivers to open up conversations about social inequalities and privilege with very young children. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A powerful, heartbreaking, and endearing picture book about homelessness. Purchase here

< Back Donna Wyland Psalms in Rhyme for Little Hearts A collection of twelve well-known psalms, written in rhyme for younger readers. Psalms in Rhyme for Little Hearts is an illustrated picture book for younger readers with a beautiful collection of twelve psalms, all written in rhyme, by author Donna Wyland. The book contains a selection of well-known psalms (Psalms 1, 4, 8, 15, 19, 20, 23, 24, 27, 29, 32, and 33), each presented in rhyming verse which beautifully captures the essence of the original text, while being accessible and enjoyable for younger audiences. After each psalm, there is a prayer that younger readers can reflect on and apply to their own life. Expertly crafted by Wyland, the rhymes translate complex topics into simple, joyful, and lyrical rhymes. The rhymes will help younger children understand and remember each psalm. Courtney Smith’s vibrant illustrations bring the psalms to life beautifully, and allow young readers to connect with each message. Wyland’s creative use of rhyme, and Smith’s vivid illustrations, make this book accessible and engaging for young readers. This is a great introduction to the Book of Psalms, and a wonderful resource for any teacher, caregiver, or young student. The book will help engage children in spiritual conversations, and will encourage readers to study the original psalms, which are also included for reference at the end of the book. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: This joyful collection of psalms would make a great addition to any home, school, or church library. Purchase here

< Back Anna Finch Hide and Seek Alphabet: With Australian Animals Can you find the Australian animals hiding in their habitats? Hide and Seek Alphabet: With Australian Animals by Anna Finch is an alphabet book based on Australian animals and birds. The book features a wide range of Australian animals, from the dingo and the emu, to the kookaburra and the platypus. The book is interactive, and readers are encouraged to find the animals that are hidden in their habitats, and imitate the sounds they make. ‘Brrup. Brrup.’ drums Earnest the Emu. Can you see where he’s hiding? While the book features plenty of well-known animals, I like that it features some lesser well-known animals too, instead of the popular kangaroos and koalas. Readers might learn about animals and birds they have never heard of, such as the galah and the quoll. This is a fun and educational A to Z illustrated picture book for younger children. With lots of lovely alliteration, and reader participation, this is a perfect read together book for younger aged children. The book provides a great introduction to Australia and its wildlife, while at the same time teaching children the alphabet. The book will help children build vocabulary and learn the names of the animals, and the sounds they make. The stunning illustrations by A. P. Gil capture the magnificent Australian wildlife and complement the book perfectly. After reading this A-to-Z alphabet book of Australian animals, I am keen to learn more about Australia and its wildlife. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fun, educational and interactive A-to-Z illustrated picture book about Australian animals and birds. Purchase here

< Back Linda Harkey Chatty the Hen Pheasant: Travels with the Pack 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 L.A.D. Publishing Space Monkey: Mars Mission Report A mischievous monkey is on a mission to Mars, by LAD publishing! Space Monkey: Mars Mission Report is a cute picture book for young readers, about the planetary system and space exploration. A little monkey is on a big, intergalactic mission to share his stories of his travels through space. His first stop is one of Earth’s closest neighbours, the magnificent red planet, Mars. But, do you know why it is called the red planet? Do you know Mars has a mountain three times bigger than Mount Everest? And do you know Mars has two moons? The book provides an incredible insight into the wonders of Mars, which will spark young people’s curiosity, and encourage them to learn more about science, engineering and technology. This is a wonderful picture book, which is insightful and inspiring, entertaining and educational, funny and factual. With an adorable monkey character, amazing illustrations and interesting factoids, this book will appeal to budding astronomers, and young readers interested in the solar system and space exploration. The digital illustrations by Lana Vivchar are bright, colourful, and funny. I particularly liked the cute little additions, (Paddington Bear, the baby bottle, and flying cookies) which will keep readers entertained for hours. I look forward to learning about Jupiter next, and more space adventures from the mischievous monkey. Written by three inspirational young men, this book will inspire readers of all ages. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An inspiring book about space travel, by three inspiring young men. Purchase here

< Back Christine Copeland Autumn in the Forest - A Seasons in the Forest Book Author Christine Copeland captures the changing of the season, and the magnificent splendor of autumn. Autumn is approaching and the forest is changing. There is a chill in the air, the wind is howling, and the leaves and seeds are falling to the ground. The colors are transitioning from luscious greens to wonderful hues of yellow, gold, brown and reds. The animals are preparing for the colder weather. The geese are flying away to warmer climates, the squirrels are gathering nuts and hiding in their nests, and the bears are resting in their lair. Autumn in the Forest by author Christine Copeland is one in a series of books for younger children about the seasons and the natural world. This is an enchanting picture book, which captures the changing of the season, and the magnificent splendor of autumn. Beautifully written in rhyme, with wonderful rhythm and repetition, this lyrical book sings the sights and sounds of the forest. The rich, vibrant, watercolor illustrations are stunning, and capture the essence of autumn perfectly. The book will help children learn about the changing of the seasons, how plants and animals prepare for autumn, and the habitats of forest animals. With further information, questions for readers, and suggested activities at the end of the book, the book will encourage further discussion and exploration of nature. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: This is a stunning book, that children and families will treasure forever. Purchase here

< Back Ron Keres The Scariest Story You've Ever Heard The front cover of this book grabs your attention and immediately draws you in. You know you are going to be scared, but you just can’t help yourself, you have to read this book! The font, the gloomy, dark colour-scheme and the terrified eyes peeking out of the bedsheets all add to the tension. Go on, I dare you… Well, I dared, and I was not disappointed. Spooked yes, but disappointed no. The book lived up to its title of the ‘Scariest book ever’. Whilst the story is far too scary to present in pictures, this review is almost too scary to describe in words. I’ll do my best without giving the plot away. The fonts, the page layout, the black pages with small pops of colour, the lack of pictures, the use of language, all gradually build fear and suspense. Young readers will be captivated and terrified. I was! I can imagine parents playing along and adding to the drama, and young children hiding and squirming under their covers. I hope I haven’t scared you away from reading this book, it is a frighteningly good read and suitable for younger readers, I promise! And there is a really cool and funny ending too, I promise! This is a great book based on a really simple but innovative concept. Young children love spooky stories, and they will love this. Author Ron Keres and illustrator Arthur Lin have done such a fantastic job and I look forward to more of their collaborations in the future. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘An innovative concept and a frighteningly good read. A GOLD WINNER and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Michael Dow Nurse Florence for Beginning Readers: Help, Im Bleeding! Jean learns basic first aid, with the help of the school nurse, Florence. Three little girls, Jean, Sonia, and Condi are playing outside at school when Jean trips over a rock and falls down. She cuts her hand on the rock and is sent to the school nurse to stop the bleeding. Nurse Florence puts on her gloves and puts pressure on Jeans hand. She explains how Jean’s own body will heal itself and stop the bleeding by using the food she has eaten. She puts some anti-bacterial cream on the wound and covers it with a band-aid to keep it clean. To help her wound heal faster, Nurse Florence recommends that Jean eats a healthy diet, including green vegetables, cereal and eggs, and drinks plenty of milk. Jean thanks Nurse Florence and hopes one day she might become a nurse herself. Nurse Florence for Beginning Readers: Help, I’m Bleeding! is an illustrated picture book By author Michael Dow. Inspired by the nursing profession and particularly the remarkable work of Florence Nightingale, the book provides a basic lesson in first aid for very young readers. It follows a young girl who is injured at school and is treated by the school nurse, Florence. Nurse Florence treats the girls wound, but also gives advice about how to help her own body heal. The girl is so inspired by Nurse Florence, she hopes to become a nurse one day too. The book is an educational and engaging story, that will help young readers understand basic first aid, and may even inspire them to pursue a career in nursing, medicine, or science. It shows the important work that nurses do to help others when they need treatment, but also the work they do in health promotion and disease prevention. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A great introduction to first aid for young readers, and a fascinating insight into the nursing profession. 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