How to be Cooler than Cool by Sean Taylor and Jean Jullien, Published by Walker Books
The littlest reader in my home thought this was hilarious. Simply written and with plenty of animal antics, this will be one to make children smile and search the house for sunglasses! As each animal adds sunglasses to their outfit, they then believe they are super cool and can do different and more daring things. When they all take a tumble in one form or another, they leave the sunglasses and go back to just being themselves. When young chick puts on the sunglasses, she knows they are just an accessory, not a change to who she is. A valuable lesson for Cat, Pig and Cockatoo who used the sunglasses to change themselves. Humour fills every page and the littlest reader and I couldn’t help but use cool voices and sound effects while reading! Brilliantly funny and guaranteed to have children laughing.
Humperdink, Our Elephant Friend by Sean Taylor and Claire Alexander, Published by Words and Pictures
Humperdink, the Elephant, joins playgroup and is already very different. As he tries to join in with the activities the children love, it becomes clear that they will not suit Humperdink. Children, being the wonderful creatures they are, begin to ask the Elephant what he would like to do. What follows is a joyful romp and stomp through the jungle led by Humperdink. Wonderful illustrations and a sense of love and joy fill the pages of this book and children will empathise with being new in class, learning to make friends and trying new games! Being part of a herd is an excellent feeling and Humperdink certainly brings his classmates into his herd!
The Best Worst Day Ever by Sophy Henn, Published by Simon & Schuster
Haven’t we all had one of those days when we feel like stomping, shouting and running away? Arthur is feeling exactly this way and as he runs from home, he meets animals who stomp and trumpet until they find a way to laugh and giggle their way through. My littlest reader, though 10, can still relate to throwing tantrums and stomping up the stairs! We thoroughly enjoyed reading this book together and remembering times of stomping, trumpeting and roaring of her younger days. Filled with Sophy Henn’s incredible illustrations this is a perfect book for diffusing tantruming situations and finding laughter after anger.
The King’s Birthday Suit by Peter Bently and Claire Powell, Published by Bloomsbury
A brilliant new take on the traditional tale of The Emperor’s New Clothes. When the vain king wants a new outfit for his birthday, two smooth talking tailors promise to make the most unbelievable suit ever! Told with Peter Bently’s remarkable rhymes, the story rolls off the tongue and children will love this new take on a classic. The illustrations by Claire Powell, are fantastic, truly capturing the fun and frivolity of the King and taking this classic to entire new levels of hilarity. Littlest Reader and I loved that it took a child’s honesty to bring the whole facade crashing down. Laugh out loud funny this will be a firm favourite in many homes and schools.
Just being Ted by Lisa Sheehan, Published by Buster Books
Ted is talented and clever but spends most of his time alone. When he tries to make friends they run away in fear from his claws and smoky breath. When a Teddy Bear’s Picnic is announced, Ted is keen to go but is warned that we won’t be welcome. Creating a costume, Ted goes to the picnic and has the best day surrounded by games, bears and fun. When his costume begins to fail, his true identity is revealed. Feeling brave, a few other false bears reveal themselves as well. Delightfully told and Illustrated, this book will be the exact story to read around the start of school, as children get to know each other and make new friends.
Sadie and the Sea Dogs by Maureen Duffy and Anita Joice, Published by Hikari Press
A longer picture book, this would suit older readers who are studying history or have an interest in historical figures. Sadie loves spending time at The Maritime Museum in Greenwich dreaming of ocean voyages and huge sailing ships like The Cutty Sark. When she falls asleep one night, her dreams come to life and she is whisked away on a thrilling adventure. Told in rhyming verse and with lovely illustrations, this book promises to step back in time and take readers on a rollicking journey!
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 