So many books, so little time! These are books I will come back to for further reading! The books on my picture book post today are superb, beautifully illustrated and wonderful for sharing or for gifting. With Christmas just 5 weeks away, I know I am already hunting down the perfect books to gift to family and friends. These have made the list for several of the younger members of my family.
Tell Tale by C.K. Smouha, Illustrated by Katie Brosnan, Published by Cicada Books
I love this tale of a tail! Dex has an uncontrollable tail and it is getting him into plenty of trouble at home. Finding anger from his Dad, Dex tries to stop the tail wagging even when it was really hard to do. Meeting a new friend, Bailey, who happily and proudly wags his tail, Dex and his Dad find that wagging their tales is a brilliant form of expression. A delightful tale and a brilliant story of being proud to express who you are! CK Smouha and Katie Brosnan are the ultimate dream team for this picture book. An important message for all children!
The Pocket Chaotic by Ziggy Hanaor, Illustrated by Daniel Gray-Barnett, Published by Cicada Books
Alexander lives in his Mother’s pouch, it is warm, cosy and has a reassuring smell. However, Mum Nancy is rather messy and keeps all manner of things in there from change to receipts to cookbooks. Alexander is finding it hard to keep it all tidy and organised and it soon becomes too much. Finding the confidence to finally move into his own bedroom, Alexander can keep it just the way he wants. A timely tale of the journey to finding your own feet and your own space. Adore this story and the wonderful use of bold colours.
Bartholomew and the Morning Monsters by Sophie Berger, Illustrated by Ruan Van Vliet, Published by Cicada Books
Sometimes, we all have trouble getting up in the mornings after a late night and Bartholomew is struggling to get ready for school. Time is ticking and though reminding Bartholomew constantly, Dad still needs to step in to help out. When Dad arrives to help, things go a bit more smoothly. Those monsters hide and Dad is able to get Bartholomew dressed, hair combed and teeth brushed. A fun story to share with those who may find mornings a bit of a trial. Superb illustrations throughout!
The Problem with Pierre by C.K. Smouha, Illustrated by Suzanna Hubbard, Published by Cicada Books
We all know how choosy cats can be and Pierre is no different. Though he belongs to neat Bertram, Pierre prefers the home of messy Alan, Bertram’s best friend and neighbour. Finding this to be hard, Bertram borrows all the items that Pierre seems to like best. It leaves messy Alan feeling lonely and the pair devise a plan to please everyone, including the cat! A charming story about finding happiness- stunning illustrations bring this happy story to life. Another delight by CK Smouha with illustrations by Suzanna Hubbard.
Dilwyn The Welsh Dragon by Samuel Langley-Swain, Illustrated by Jessica Rose, Published by Owlet Press
Dilwyn is an extraordinary dragon, born and raised in the Royal Mint, he guar ds the coins. A lyrical rhyming tale with charming illustrations. When discovered in the royal mint, the staff name the dragon Dilwyn which means truth. When two unsuspecting thieves stroll in they get a mighty hot surprise in the form of the protector of the coins! A charming story and one to share widely! Utterly delightful!
The Tooth Fairy and the Home of the Coin Makers by Samuel Langley-Swain, Illustrated by Davide Ortu, Published by Owlet Press
I haven’t come across huge numbers of stories featuring tooth fairies and so these enchanting books are a welcome addition to the home or classroom. When twins Ollie and Grace lose teeth at the same time, they eagerly await a visit from the tooth fairy while staying with Grandpa. Having worked for the Royal Mint, Grandpa is full of stories of coins, fairies and a red dragon guarding the money. The twins can’t wait to lose more teeth so they can hear more about the magic of tooth fairies and the Royal Mint.
The Tooth Fairy and the Magical Journey by Samuel Langley-Swain, Illustrated by Davide Ortu, Published by Owlet Press
The twins are back with another lost tooth and a visit to grandpa! This time instead of just visiting Grandpa’s coin collection, the twins are taken to the Royal Mint as a special treat. Finally seeing for themselves the amazing coins, Dilwyn the dragon and the Chief of the Fairies. What an exciting adventure! These three delightful tales from Owlet Press and The Royal Mint highlight the wonders of this age old tradition of making coins for the Queen.
Counting Creatures by Julia Donaldson, Illustrated by Sharon King-Chai, Published by Two Hoots
Julia Donaldson and Sharon King-Chai have collaborated again to create the most incredible book of Counting Creatures. Their book Animalphabet was met with astounding success and it comes as no surprise how stunning this new book is. Creatures around the world have varying numbers of babies, and this lift the flap, foldable page book will introduce readers to baby animals. Gloriously illustrated with enchanting animals and their habitats will have readers coming back again and again to this book. A brilliant gift for animal lovers!
Ella’s Night Lights written and illustrated by Lucy Fleming, Published by Walker Books
A beautifully illustrated story of friendship and kindness. Ella is a nighttime creature with fluffy antennae and delicate wings but she longs to see the sunrise. Sharing her light with those in need, she makes some special friends along the way. Wanting to share the kindness, her new friends come up with a plan to help Ella realise her greatest wish. Charming, beautiful and full of enchanting illustrations, this is one sure to fill your heart with light.
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!
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My Shelves Are Full 