The three books in this edition of picture book perfect are pure beauty. Overwhelmingly perfect for sharing and delving into, whether with just your own children or a class full. The messages are positive, yet honest and there is much to interpret, learn and empathise with.
Words to describe these books have been hard to find as I cannot seem to do them the justice they deserve. What I can do is promote them for their beauty, power and potential discussions in classes of all ages.
The Longer the Wait, the Bigger the Hug by Eoin McLaughlin and Polly Dunbar, Published by Faber.
The Hug and While We Can’t Hug are adorable books and so apt for what the world has been going through these past couple of years. This latest addition to the series is just as wonderful, if not more so as tortoise and hedgehog have been separated for far too long. After a long winter’s snooze, Hedgehog awakens excited to be re-united with best friend Tortoise. While Tortoise continues to sleep, Hedgehog tries to bond with his other friends but it just isn’t the same. While the world adjusts to the easing of restrictions, hugs are finally allowed and so many hugs are longer, harder and more appreciated than ever before. I am still waiting for hugs with my own family but this book brings a smile to my face and a tear to my eye as I know just how wonderful those first hugs will be. Share this series with everyone you know, appreciate your friends and family and never let a good hug go to waste!
Sunflower Sisters by Monika Singh Gangotra and Michaela Dias-Hayes, Published by Owlet Press
This cover of this book is so striking and wonderful, giving readers a glimpse into what is yet to come. Amrita and Kiki, are celebrating weddings in their families and there is plenty of old wives tales being thrown about, from skin lightening creams, to shying away from certain colours of fabrics. Of course, the children know best, “Our skin is beautiful, whatever colour we wear, right!” Says knowing Amrita. The joy of these two girls sharing in the wonders of their cultures, and learning the hard truths about colourism, is a wonderful narrative for young women around the world. The illustrations in this vital book are vivid and bold and allow the reader to embrace the beauty within! This is one to empower our girls!
Wishes by Mu’o’n Thi Van and Victo Ngai, Published by Scholastic
Each double page spread features one sentence. That one sentence and the meaningful illustrations will convey the seriousness of the situation for the family. This book highlights the journey of a refugee family seeking safety and refuge in a new place, and in its anonymity, this could be any family in any part of the world. Inspired by his own journey from Vietnam, the author certainly draws on his experience, and though told simply, the reader cannot help but feel affected by the plight of those forced to leave home. Wishes made by those in peril, those worrying and those wanting more are all somehow shared by this book. Many of us, will likely never know the hardships of a refugee journey but this book will certainly open our eyes to the loss, pain and love felt. Incredibly moving and deeply personal, this has a lasting effect.
I am a primary school teacher, turned librarian. I am Children’s Librarian for Suffolk Libraries, a job I adore!
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 I am currently Vice Chair on the National Executive Committee for the Federation of Children’s Book Groups!
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My Shelves Are Full 