I have stacks of lovely picture books just waiting to be read but I had to hand pick some new favourites to share.
Up High by Matt Hunt, Published by Nosy Crow
A simple walk takes a boy on a journey of discovery! When he feels a little small and worried, his father puts him up high. The view is different and the boy sees new things he would have missed by walking. The reader gets taken on this journey as well through the illustrations. When they stop for a picnic, the boy sees another new view- that of the smallest critters in the park. The illustrations are phenomenal in this story of perspective. The extra tall format is perfect for sharing the child’s view. The loving relationship between father and son is wonderfully depicted in the offer of a shoulder ride and then the tired carry on the way home.
The Bridges by Tom Percival, Published by Simon & Schuster
This book is a perfect depiction of how books can change lives. One girl’s sad and lonely childhood is altered forever when a book is left for her. Never having had her own book, this was a lifeline. As she read, she was led to the library…a wondrous place for children. I love the bridges that grew stronger with every word read- this is a book to be shared in every classroom and home. It truly shows the joys and wonder that reading bring. Tom Percival certainly has his finger on the pulse of empathy as I haven’t ever read a book that didn’t allow a child to discover a new perspective in a colourful way.
Bea’s Bad Day by Tom Percival, Published by Bloomsbury
Tom Percival’s Big Bright Feelings books are perfect for young readers. I have them all as I adore them and the way they encourage children to embrace their emotions and to find new ways of expressing themselves. They also give permission for children to express these feelings and to feel positively about them. In Bea’s Bad Day, the excitement over her birthday is shattered as a snow storm stops the party, the food and the presents. The use of illustrations to show her shattered emotions is cleverly done and readers will certainly understand how Bea feels. This is a must have series!
In Time by Marina Ruiz, a published by Quarto Books
Isn’t it fascinating how we each perceive time in our own way and how it slows or quickens during certain activities. The young girl has heightened awareness of the noise, busyness and fast paced life outside her door but her time seems to go so slow! This lovely story is a calming look at time through one girl’s perspective. While life is busy, she looks deeper at nature and its use of time to grow, rest and prepare for the seasons. There is a lovely poignant moment at the end of the story where the girl would like to pause time. I imagine we could all think of a time where this would be welcomed.
Little Lion Girl by Olivia Hope and Fiona Woodcock, Published by Bloomsbury
Leonie heads into the city with her mum and embraces her inner lion. The city is bright and exciting so Leonje wants to be a part of it all. She is confident, clever and happy. They are having a brilliant day together until Leonie finds herself distracted and following a butterfly out of sight of her mother. Suddenly the exciting city is a bigger, scarier place than her inner lion can cope with. This wonderful story is filled with illustrations that will offer confidence to other young lions! Leonie is as colourful a character as you could hope to meet.
Moon Bear by Clare Helen Welsh and Carolina T Godina, Published by Quarto Books
I love wordless books- they offer so many opportunities for children to interpret the tale in their own way. In this book, there is only a few words to set the scene of Ettie and her fear of the dark. This one night, Ettie is given a chance to play with moon light in the form of a bear. They have a lovely night together and Ettie’s fear seems to be lessening, so much so that she rushes through the next day to get to bed again. Truly beautiful illustrations bring imagination and creativity to light.
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 