I make no secret of the fact that I LOVE Picture Books and the set of books sat next to me are already new favourites in my house. I am proud to say that my children still love reading picture books, with me and on their own. Firm favourites come off the shelf and new favourites from my pile get snuck off into bedrooms for a bout of bedtime reading. I have no doubt these will soon be found in beds around my house.
I really Want to Shout by Simon Philip, Illustrated by Lucia Gaggiotti, Published by Templar Books
This delightful book series stands out from the crowd. From I Want to Win and I Want The Cake to I Want to Shout, this perfect pairing of author and illustrator is superb. They bring together a little girl learning how to act in the world! We forget, as grown-ups, how hard it is to share, tricky to lose a race and strong the need to shout but this books helps us so we can help our children. Trying a range of ways to stop the need to shout, she has various levels of success. An excellent book to read with young children to help them learn to chat about their feelings and emotions. This could be a perfect book to begin tackling mental health in our youngest readers. I love the illustrative style and use of colour.
Veg Patch Party by Clare Foges, Illustrated by Al Murphy, Published by Faber
From the creators of Kitchen Disco and Bathroom Boogie comes the latest veggie party. Once the farmer has gone for tea, the veggie’s are setting up stages and getting geared up for a rave in the mud! Bold and bright colours give this book a vibrancy to set it apart from others on the bookshelf. The fun rhymes and silly veggie antics make this a perfect read aloud, sure to have all children giggling, if not dancing in the corridors. I especially liked DJ Brussel Sprout and the Conga Carrots.
Dog Gone by Rob Biddulph, Published by Harper Collins
This was high on my wishlist as I am a massive fan of Rob Biddulph, and I assure you, it does not disappoint. I love the images under the book jacket as well as the conker endpapers, not to mention the appearance of some famous faces on the last page. Edward Pugglesworth, Teddy, has a small human to care for, and their normal routine of walks in the park to make happen. After chasing some squirrels one morning, Teddy realises he is missing his human, and must face his fears of the “Scary Troll Shed”… Teddy is adorable and I hope there are more adventures to come.
I Really, Really Need A Wee by Karl Newson, Illustrated by Duncan Beedie, Published by Little Tiger
This hilarious book will have children and grown-ups giggling for ages. Little Bushbaby is desperate for the loo, but someone lives in that hole, that cave and that bush… what will bushbaby do? Finally spying a toilet, there is a sense of relief but the queue is huge! We have all been there and know the desperation of needing the loo so we know just how bad it is for Bushbaby! The animal shaped toilets are brilliat as are the illustrations throughout the entire book.
I Say Boo, You Say Hoo by John Kane, Published by Templar Books
John Kane has successfully created a new picture book guaranteed to have children shouting funny words, getting mixed up and laughing hysterically. After the huge success of I Say Ooh, You Say Aah, I cannot wait for this to be read to my younger classes. From getting children to search the pages for the correct clue to start shouting and waiting for them to realise the clever technique of calling themselves out, this book enchants and thrills. It promises huge smiles, laughs and children trying to trick each other! Love the simple use of illustrations that make it easy for children to get involved.
Wanda’s Words Got Stuck by Lucy Rowland, Illustrated by Paula Bowles, Published by Nosy Crow
Wanda the Witch wants to be bold and brave and use her words, but they get stuck! When Flo arrives at school and is shy as well, Wanda makes a friend where words are not always needed. When the school Magic Contest is announced, it immediately worries Wanda, until Flopromises to help. As the class perform tricks with animals, it starts to get out of hand when a lion and a dragon threaten to ruin the show. When Flo forgets her words, the dragon faces up to her. What will Wanda do? This dynamic author illustrator duo has created a lovely book that will encourage young readers to be patient, brave and to find friends where words are not always needed. Gorgeous colours and illustrations truly enhance the lovely story of Wanda!
Jeremy Worried About the Wind by Pamela Butchart, Illustrated by Kate Hindley, Published by Nosy Crow
Another dynamic author illustrator combination for Nosy Crow to bring together. Pamela Butchart brings a funny story while Kate Hindley brings incredible illustrations. Jeremy worries about many things, most of them irrational and a bit funny. When he meets courageous and bold Maggie, he is shocked at her attitude, ” What’s the worst that could happen?” she asks. Well, Jeremy has a list to answer that question. When Jeremy must face his greatest fear head on, and shoes off, there is no list to help him. Adventure awaits those willing to travel!
I am a primary school teacher, turned librarian. Now I have the title Reading Advocate for ASSET Education Trust, based in Suffolk.
I read constantly and have more books than bookshelves, but I wouldn't have it any other way.
I celebrate reading every day at work and at home with my two children, aged 11 and 9.
I sit on the National Executive Committee for the Federation of Children’s Book Groups and run an OU/UKLA Teachers as Readers group!
View all posts by assetreadingadvocate
My Shelves Are Full 