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< Back Jessica Wendi Abel The Little Blue Rocket Ship Author Jessica Wendi Abel provides comfort and reassurance for those impacted by postpartum depression. The Little Blue Rocket Ship: A Story About Postpartum Depression is a children’s picture book about a young boy whose mom suffers postpartum depression following the birth of his baby brother. The boy wants to play with his mom, just like he used to, but suddenly she no longer wants to play. The boy launches a blue rocket ship from his window with a note to bring his old mom back, and waits every day for the ship to return. After a long time, and following lots of rest and support, his mom finally returns the blue rocket ship. The boy knows things will never be the same, but looks forward to building another rocket ship with his mom. This is a heart-warming book about postpartum depression, lovingly and sensitively told from the perspective of a child. He doesn’t understand why his mum doesn’t want to play anymore, or why she stays in her room. He experiences a range of emotions, from anger through to sadness. The book provides a great resource to start conversations about postpartum depression with younger children. It will help children to understand that postpartum depression affects many women, but with lots of rest and support, they will get better with time. It will provide comfort and reassurance for those experiencing postpartum depression, and those impacted by the illness. The book contains much needed additional resources for those who might need further information or support. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A heart-warming book about postpartum depression, lovingly and sensitively told from the perspective of a child. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Teddy Biron The Lighthouse Keeper Saves the Bay Author and illustrator Teddy Biron shows the devastating impact humans have on the ocean and wildlife. An old lighthouse keeper wakes up early every day, to say hello to all the creatures that live in the bay. Nothing much happens in the quiet bay, he hangs out his laundry, and watches the boats gently drift in the dock. But, in the midst of darkness, as the lighthouse switches on its lights to protect the ships, there is an unwelcome visitor to the bay. He tips a vat of oil and trash into the ocean, and slips away again under the cover of darkness. When the lighthouse keeper wakes the next day, he notices the mess and the devastation caused to the bay and the sea life. He starts to clean up the mess straightaway, and is soon followed by others who join in the clean-up mission. Slowly, the creatures return, and the bay is brought back to life. Sadly, the old man knows it won’t be the last time he has to clean up someone else’s discarded trash. The Lighthouse Keeper Saves the Bay, by author and illustrator Teddy Biron, is a beautiful story, with an important message about the devastating impact humans have on the ocean and wildlife. It will encourage young children and adults to take responsibility for their own actions, and clean up after themselves. But it will also encourage positive action to help out when others fail to play their part in cleaning up their own mess. The illustrations are simply stunning and really bring the story to life. They beautifully capture the serenity of the bay, the magnificent wildlife, the horror of the face-less hooded man, and the devastation caused after the trash is dumped. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: This is a beautiful story, with an important environmental message and stunning illustrations. Purchase here

< Back Clara Donis-Girma Clara and Mr. Milo's Adventures Episode 1 Clara Wanting a Pet Clara dreams of owning her own pet, by author Clara Donis-Girma Little Clara loves animals and would very much like a pet of her own. In Episode 1 Clara thinks about all the different ways she could own her own pet, and asks her mom if she could look after a pet that doesn’t have a home. Clara’s mom explains that owning a pet is a big responsibility, as they need feeding, cleaning, walking, and entertaining every day. Clara shows her mom how responsible she is by cleaning her room and helping out with the housework, and promises to take very good care of a pet. Her mom agrees that she is responsible and suggests they go to their local animal shelter to look at all the animals available for pet adoption. Clare is ecstatic and looks forward to her visit to the animal shelter, when finally, she might be able to take home her very own pet. In Episode 2, Clara goes to the pet shelter and chooses a little orange kitten. In Episode 3 she picks up pet supplies from the store and names the kitten Milo. In Episode 4, she takes the kitten home and in Episode 5, Milo settles into his new home. In Episode 6, Milo has his first visit to the vet, and in Episode 7, Clara celebrates her birthday with Milo and her friends. Clara and Mr. Milo's Adventures, by author Clara Donis-Girma, is a sweet picture book for younger children. The book introduces the reader to Clara, a little girl who dreams of owning her own pet. This book will help children and families learn the importance of responsible pet ownership and is ideal for anyone considering pet ownership and adoption. The illustrations by Lana Lee are simple, colourful, and delightful. Young children will love the charming main character, Clara, and the super cute Milo, and I’m sure they will look forward to more adventures from the pair in the future. Star rating: 5 stars Summary: A sweet picture book with a charming main character and delightful illustrations. Purchase here

< Back Kafilat Shobajo All The Things I Can Be A young girl named Kofo has big dreams. It is ‘Career Day’ at school and a young girl named Kofo is thinking about all the wonderful and amazing careers she could have when she grows up. Her parents have taught her the importance of education and she knows that she will have to work hard in any career. Her parents have also taught her the importance of self-belief, and everyday Kofo repeats positive affirmations to remind herself just how smart and strong she is, and that she can achieve anything she sets her mind to. She could be a teacher, a lawyer, a nurse or doctor, an architect, a farmer, or a plumber, and many, many more things. With hard work and determination, she could even be the first woman President of her country one day. All The Things I Can Be is an illustrated picture book by Kafilat Shobajo about a young girl who explores all the potential career options available to her. There are no limitations to her ambitions. She is strong and positive, and knows with hard work and determination, she will achieve her dreams. This is an engaging, positive and powerful picture book for young readers. It will inspire readers to think about a variety of different career options, the importance of those careers, and the benefits they bring. It will encourage young readers to think beyond typical gender-based careers and consider all opportunities. I particularly enjoyed the illustrations, the diversity of the characters and the images of Kofo in different roles. The book has a positive message for both girls and boys, and will inspire young readers to follow their dreams. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A delightful picture book about a young girl and the endless career options available to her. 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 Janet Lau The Little Grey Pig: A Story About Self-Confidence Little Grey Pig has a big challenge to create something beautiful for a special garden party, from author Janet Lau Little Grey Pig goes shopping and finds aeroplanes and beautiful dresses in the store. But Little Grey Pig has no money to buy a new aeroplane or dress, and no money to buy tools or materials. So Little Grey Pig comes up with a great idea – she decides to create them herself, with resources she already has at home. She spends hours and hours building and making, but when her projects are complete, Little Grey Pig isn’t too happy. Her aeroplane falls apart mid-air, and people make fun of her home-made dress. A wise owl, Owletta, provides comfort and support, and gives the Little Grey Pig a big challenge – to build new aeroplanes and create a new dress for a special garden party. This is a lovely story about a creative little pig who is determined to create something beautiful herself, but when things don’t quite go to plan, she has the strength and courage to carry on. The book will encourage young readers to be proud of their achievements, no matter how small. It will encourage children to learn from their mistakes and to persevere when things might get tough. The book shows that things don’t have to be perfect to enjoy them, the best creations are the ones made from hard work and love. We loved the adorable characters, beautifully illustrated by Angela Gooliaff. With supporting notes and activities for readers to complete in the book, the book will help to develop confidence and self-esteem in young children. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A lovely story about a creative little pig who has the strength and courage to carry on, when things don’t quite go according to plan. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ 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 Joanne Russo Insull Don't Follow Pino! Brothers, Dugan and Pino, escape their yard and are lost far away from home, by author Joanne Russo Insull This is a picture book for young readers about two dogs, brothers Dugan and Pino. Dugan loves to go on a walk with his mom and big brother, Pino. Every morning, they walk around their neighborhood and meet lots of new people. Dugan and Pino try to be on their best behavior when they walk on their leash, and if they are very lucky they might even receive a nice treat or two. When they are not out walking, they like to play outside in their back yard. The yard is locked and safe, and Dugan and Pino run and play with the squirrels and chipmunks. But one day, a workman who is fixing a pole behind the house, forgets to shut the gate. Pino suggests to Dugan that they go on a walk outside, without their mom. Dugan is reluctant, he knows they shouldn’t leave the yard alone, but Pino is persistent. Dugan is scared they will get lost, or get into big trouble, but he follows Pino through the gate and out into the street. He tells himself, “Don’t follow Pino!”, but he continues to follow him into a field, far away from home. As Dugan becomes more concerned, he hears his mom calling from the other side of the field. He turns around and sees her waving at the entrance, walking quickly towards them. But Pino thinks it’s a game, and he runs even further away. Suddenly, Dugan notices his mom turn around and walk slowly in the opposite direction. Dugan panics and decides to follow his mom rather than Pino. He runs as fast as he can to catch up with his mom, and Pino follows closely behind. Mom is happy to see her boys again, and quickly puts on their leashes. Dugan feels bad for scaring mom and promises never to run away again. Pino, on the other hand, has other ideas! Don't Follow Pino! by Joanne Russo Insull is a sweet picture book about a couple of mischievous dogs, who escape the safety of their back yard and become lost far away from home. Dugan is influenced by his older brother, Pino, and tags along even though he knows he shouldn’t. Mom eventually finds them, but Pino thinks it’s a game, and runs away. Mom’s quick reaction is to turn and walk in the opposite direction, to bring the boys safely home. Dugan and Pino are sweet and adorable characters, and younger children will enjoy reading about their exciting adventure. This is a fun read for the whole family, but there are some important messages for young people too, about peer pressure, following rules, personal safety. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sweet picture book about two mischievous pups, and a fun read for the whole family. Purchase here

< Back Scott Smallwood Monkey and Bug's Night at The Corn Stand Jam A little dog realises he is not alone, and receives much needed support from his friends, by author Scott Smallwood Monkey the dog, and Bug the cat, are best friends from a small town in Ohio. Monkey was adopted into a loving family home, but sometimes felt sad and lonely. He missed his friends from the kennels, and his older sister didn’t want to play with him. Bug knew Monkey was unhappy, and he suggested they go for a walk together to the park to meet his friends and family. At the park, Monkey met Bugs friends and tried out lots of new activities, like yoga, skateboarding, and painting, which made Monkey feel happy inside and less sad. When Monkey meets a woman in a wheelchair, he is happy when he learns that she is proud of her abilities, and that she feels loved and supported by many people. Then he meets more of Bug’s friends, who play music on the Corn-Jam Stand, to help spread happiness for people when they are feeling a little sad. Monkey learns from his new friends that it is okay not to feel okay, which made him feel a little less alone. Monkey has a little boogie with all his new friends, and knows he has plenty of people to talk to, the next time he feels sad. Monkey and Bug's Night at The Corn Stand Jam is a wonderful picture book by author Scott Smallwood about inclusion, and mental health and wellbeing. Despite having a loving and supportive family, Monkey feels sad and alone sometimes. Through trying new activities, meeting new and different people, and talking to others, Monkey learns that everyone feels sad and lonely from time to time, and it is okay not to be okay. He learns the importance of talking to others, sharing problems, as well as the importance of letting go and having fun. This book will help to open up conversations with young readers and their parents or carers, and will encourage them to talk about their thoughts and feelings. The book deals with mental health issues in a simple, engaging and effective way, that young readers will relate to. Inspired by the real Christian’s Corn Stand Jam, proceeds of this book go to charity. This is an engaging and insightful book, with an important message that will benefit readers of all ages, and support a much deserved charity. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A wonderful picture book that deals with mental health issues in a simple, effective and engaging way. Purchase here

< Back Lynne Harley What If You Could? Will a little caterpillar fulfil his dreams of traveling the world? A little caterpillar is busy doing what little caterpillars do, when he hears his inner voice telling him it is time for something new. Little caterpillar feels lonely, discontent, and blue, and longs for a more fun and fulfilled life. His inner voice urges him to be whatever he would love to be, and to do whatever makes him happy. The inner voice is as warm as sunshine and encourages the caterpillar to let his imagination run free, and to dream big. The caterpillar dreams of flying through the sky and travelling across the world. He dreams of being bright and colourful, and being admired by people wherever he goes. But when the caterpillar wakes from his slumber, another inner voice tells him to give up on his foolish dreams. This voice is cold and mean and has nothing positive to say. The caterpillar is disheartened and discouraged. As the caterpillar goes to bed each night, he is reminded by the warm, loving voice to believe in himself, and never give up. Which voice will the caterpillar listen to? And will the little caterpillar realize his dreams? What If You Could? by Lynne Harley, is an illustrated picture book about a little caterpillar who wants a better and more fulfilled life. As he contemplates his future, he is influenced by two inner voices. One voice is warm, loving, and positive, and encourages him to dream big. The other voice is cold, mean, and negative, and dissuades him for following his dreams. This is a sweet, heartwarming, and inspiring book that introduces the concept of our inner thoughts and emotions to very young children. Written in rhyme, with beautiful whimsical illustrations by Kiram Akram, the book will help young readers to understand their own thoughts and feelings and will encourage them to follow their dreams. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An inspiring and captivating book that helps young readers navigate the complex world of inner thoughts and emotions. Purchase here

< Back Amy Landgraf Good Night, Sweet Peas Will Grammy and Grampy Pea ever get their little peas to bed? Five little and mischievous Sweet Peas have fun playing in the garden, swinging from the vines, rolling in the mud, building a fort and digging for bugs. As one excited little pea zooms around the garden, the other peas take chase and try to catch him. But as night falls, Grammy Pea calls time on the fun and the five little Sweet Peas must clean up all the mess they have created. Grampy Pea helps the little peas brush their teeth and Grammy Pea reads a bedtime story. As the peas squeeze into their pod, they drift off to sleep. But as the peas dream sweet dreams, they are suddenly wakened by a rather unpleasant smell! Good Night, Sweet Peas (A Rollie Pollie Pea Book) by debut author Amy Landgraf is a delightful and fun picture book for younger readers, about five cute but very mischievous, little peas. Landgraf has created a fun setting for a picture book series, and unique and adorable little pea characters: Brie, Lee, Tea, Capri and Rollie Pollie. This is a wonderful read-together book, that might encourage little ones to wash up, and settle down for a cosy bedtime story with their loved ones and caregivers. Beautifully written in rhyme, with bright and vibrant cartoon like illustrations, this book will become a bedtime favourite for children and adults alike. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fun picture book, beautifully written in rhyme, with unique and adorable little pea characters. Purchase here

< Back Christina M Carroll The Things I Love A young boy and his mom share memories of the past. A young boy sits in his bedroom with his mother, looking back through an old photograph album. He looks at the photographs and shares memories of all the good times and things he loved to do, with his mother. Each photograph represents a time in his young life, a moment and a memory captured in a glorious colorful image. He loved to climb trees and go on fishing trips, play hide and seek, and go trick or treating. But most of all, he loved spending time with his mother. Written in rhyme, with a numerical countdown from the boy aged ten to age one, this book will help build both vocabulary and numeracy skills. The book is a unique take on a traditional counting book, as the countdown is woven into the story. The format worked really well and will engage young readers. Children love looking back at old photographs and sharing memories, and they will connect with the story in this book. I can imagine young readers sharing this book with parents or caregivers, pulling out their own photograph albums, and remembering key moments in their own lives. In an age where most photographs are captured digitally, this book is a celebration of the beauty and power of a physical photograph. Overall, this is a sweet and charming illustrated picture book, and a perfect book to share at bedtime. The illustrations by Jenny Slife are wonderful. Vibrant, fun, and engaging, the illustrations capture the story perfectly. The main character is sweet and adorable, and I enjoyed watching how he developed and how his appearance changed over time. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A sweet and charming picture book, which captures the essence of childhood and the joy of sharing memories with loved ones. Purchase here