Some absolutely brilliant picture books to share this summer!
The Blue Tomato by Amber Aü, Published by Little Tiger
An adorable story about the importance of being true to yourself! Blu is keen to fit in at the farmshop and tries to find ways to turn himself red. It isn’t until Blu spots others having fun and not trying to be the same that it becomes clear! Blu still loves to dress up but is happiest as himself! Beautifully illustrated, this is a truly special picture books to share with young readers. A great story for starting school and embracing the differences in your class and friends.
The Littlest Lemon by Lucy Noguera and Dannii Summerfield, Published by Brilliant Monster Books
This is an adorable story of a family celebrating traditions, new babies and spending quality time together. Estée and Arlo are spending time with their Abuela and she shows them how to make lemon cake and lemonade. Estée grows rather attached to one little lemon and then they decide to grow their own, just ahead of meeting their new baby brother. This is lovely for sharing with families expecting new arrivals or just for the beauty of an inter generational family.
I am an Illustrator by Kertu Sillaste, Published by Graffeg
This is such a brilliant insight into being an illustrator for children. It promotes creativity, imagination and trying new things to get just the right image for a story. The story is mapped out with plenty of tips for budding illustrators as well as ways to let your creativity flow. I think this is a valuable book for young readers to inspire those who truly embrace the illustrations in a book and encourage them to become illustrators! Love the illustrations throughout, showing stages and emotion, reactions and styles.
The Teacup by Chris Naylor-Ballesteros, Published by Nosy Crow
I remember how heartwarming The Suitcase was and so I was delighted to find The Teacup as a companion story. The friends have built a lovely daily routine and share their lives. When a stranger comes, that feeling of being unwelcome is evident but the friends soon realise how important this new stranger might be- and so they rush to reunite the two who have matching teacups! Simply told but incredibly evocative and wonderful. Young readers can truly build empathy through these two stories.
Pricklepaper’s Letter Magic by Tom Read Wilson, Published by Words & Pictures
This is such a joy to read and share! Pricklepaper wanders the park collecting letters and over the course of one evening, helps out quite a few friends. By adding a letter from his prickle to their problem, they find a solution that works! It’s charming and delightful, perfect for back to school sharing! The ending may even bring a tear to your eye as Pricklepaper realises what his leftover letters spell- LOVE!
Bear’s Perfect Dance by Rachel Tilda Wolf, Published by Scallywag Press
Another joyous story to share this summer! Bear is a bit lonely and would love a dance partner. He hosts auditions but none are quite right for him. Feeling deflated, he heads home but soon a knock at the door changes his mood! A child dancing with joy and happiness- just what Bear is looking for. They dance together and have an amazing time, inviting all the animals to join in! This is a brilliant book for celebrating friendship and making connections.
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 