The first of June and it is sunny, almost warm and time to explore some picture books!
Natterjack Toad Can’t Believe It by Sean Taylor and Kathryn Durst, Published by Walker Books
A funny story about Natterjack Toad and his yummy pack of super crunchy cookies. He has found a quiet spot and is just about to munch and crunch when danger appears. He must dash and find another space. Worryingly, the same thing happens again just as he is about to crunch. Will Natterjack Toad ever get to crunch his cookie? Perhaps with the help of Mole and Vole, they can escape the dangers that lurk! They might even get to munch and crunch together! Funny, repetitive and filled with beautiful and colourful illustrations.
Here be Giants by Susannah Lloyd and Paddy Donnelly, Published by Frances Lincoln
This is a cracking great story, one that is an absolute delight to share. While you read, your younger reader can spot the silly details that truly bring this story to life. Between Susannah Lloyds humour and Paddy Donnelly’s amazing illustrations, this series is a must have for bookshelves! As the intrepid knight attempts to find a giant, he hilariously misses important clues and messages about his location and the “storm” that seems to be passing by. Luckily the damsel seems to be a bit more alert and able to tackle dangerous situations!
Who Ate Steve by Susannah Lloyd and Kate Hindley, Published by Nosy Crow
What begins as an informative book about size quickly descends into chaos as the model for large eats the model for small. The narrator must save Steve the worm from Marcel, the bird. It’s a hilarious struggle as Steve keeps disappearing (into Marcel’s beak)! Riotous, perfect for reading aloud and with a surprise ending- what more could you want? It’s another dynamic pairing of author and illustrator. Susannah Lloyd and Kate Hindley, a dream team! I can’t wait to share this with young readers! Best get my strictest voice ready to berate Marcel!
I Really, Really Don’t Like Parties by Angie Morgan, Published by Otter-Barry Books
Dora has been invited to a party and for most children that would be exciting! Dora would rather sit quietly so devises plenty of excuses to avoid the event. When she finds herself in a noisy, busy party, she searches for somewhere to hide. Crawling under a table, Dora finds someone else looking for quiet as well. They spend an enjoyable party together and when the next invitation arrives, Dora doesn’t search for excuses. A delightful story perfect for sharing with shy and quiet children who may find parties overwhelming!
Bear vs Dragon by Marcela Ferreira and Mark Chambers, Published by Oxford University Press
This is one of those brilliant stories where the reader knows (or can guess) what might happen as our characters are completely unaware! Both Bear and Dragon wish to cross the bridge but neither one will make space, or shuffle or stand aside. As their argument gets more heated, the bridge begins to show signs of collapsing. Will this pair survive a fall? Will they be able to find a way to work together? A delightful story, one to make you laugh and smile! Enjoy the insults, the comparisons and adventure.
A Midsummer Night’s Drama by Louie Stowell and Isobel Lundie, Published by Little Tiger
This charming story is one that I hope begins a new series of bringing plays and Shakespeare to life for younger readers. Bill Bear is the wonderful playwright but when the curtain draws to a close, he cannot sleep. Trying a variety of things, from writing to dancing to pretending, Bill is desperate for sleep. Even a royal decree doesn’t work for Bill. This fantastic story is ideal for sharing at bedtime and the glorious style and illustrations will be enjoyed by everyone who picks this up.
Lola Saves the Show by Katherine Halligan and Guilherme Karsten, Published by Walker Books and the National Theatre
What an enchanting introduction to the backstage of a theatre production. It’s lovely to share a theatre experience with someone new but it is easy to forget just what happens, and who makes it happen backstage. In this story, we meet main character Lola but she is missing an important part of her costume and cannot go on without it. As she runs through different parts of the stage and sees the variety of people, we get a glimpse into what is taking place. A great collaboration between publisher and theatre!
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!
View all posts by Erin Lyn
My Shelves Are Full 