Reviews
There are so many incredible books available at the moment that it is impossible to read them all, no matter how hard I try! Here are my thoughts about some of the books I have read and how I think they could be used in school as well as Q and A sessions with authors and illustrators.
A Story of the Seasons
‘A Story of the Seasons’ is another beautifully produced collaboration from Nosy Crow and the National Trust. Lettering capturing elements of the changing seasons surrounded by creatures, birds, insects and flowers stands out against the matt cream background of the cover, instantly tempting the reader inside whilst attention to detail - such as a purple ribbon bookmark and the green edging of the pages - all add to the special feel of the book, making it a gift to treasure!
The content of the book is just as well presented and engaging. The introduction explains that the book looks at the changing nature of eight habitats through the seasons of the year, exploring the life cycles and habits of the creatures who live there. What follows is a real celebration of the natural world with the enthusiasm of the author encouraging readers to pause, enjoy and explore nature around them. Accessible sections of text offer facts and clearly written explanations with headings and side headings, guiding the reader and helping them to locate information.
The book is bursting with information, but also offers plenty of inspiration, encouraging active engagement with nature- noticing the first signs of spring, looking for different birds on an estuary, enjoying the park in winter. There are also historical details, references to poetry and folklore- all of which offers an enriching reading experience for all ages to enjoy, all complemented by beautiful illustrations. This is a book for families to share throughout the year- a book which will develop family traditions for experiencing and enjoying the wonders of nature.
A Story of the Seasons
Anna Wilson, illustrated by Carilina Rabei
National Trust and Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805130031
Santa’s Journey/ Twelve Days of Kindness
This simple rhyming story follows Father Christmas as he makes his way across the skies to deliver his gifts on Christmas Eve. Each verse is accompanied by a lovely layered pop-up scene to enjoy and discuss.
The thick card pages are durable and offer protection to the more fragile scenes which pop-up from the page as the book is opened, giving depth to each picture and each of the five scenes is richly coloured.
Perfect for sharing and enjoying as a family, older children may well be tempted to have a go at creating their own pop-up scene or a card inspired by these pictures. Sure to become a festive favourite!
Santa’s Journey
Patricia Hegarty, illustrated by Wazza Pink
Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1838916534
Brightly coloured illustrations show a family spreading festive cheer as they perform twelve simple acts of kindness in the days before Christmas. Each spread has a simple sentence stating what they did on that day, with the picture setting the scene. It clearly shows how little things we can do for others can mean so much - and without the need for spending lots of money. This is all about spending time with others, helping out, being together and showing appreciation for the things which others do for us. Even the cat gets a treat!
A lovely treat to curl up and share!
Twelve Days of Kindness
Sophie Beer
Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1838916800
‘Tis the Season
As a huge fan of both poetry and advent calendars, this book is just perfect for me! ‘‘Tis the Season’ is a genius idea, combing the excitement of the festive countdown with the gift of poetry and all in the most beautifully designed and constructed book.
Untying a red ribbon allows the reader to explore the gorgeous illustrations which accompany each poem. These have been carefully chosen to offer a wonderful mix of festive and seasonal gems, each the perfect length to hold interest whilst opening the flap to reveal the advent treat! Once opened on the first of December, the book can either be closed and re-tied each day or left open, standing in a magical fold-out freeze, tempting the reader with the joys yet to come.
What better gift to give than the joy of poetry and art? This is sure to become a family tradition, creating a shared experience as the poems become like familiar friends. They are also bound to introduce families to other poems by the same poets as enjoyment of one verse will always lead to more. Although this is aimed at children, ‘‘Tis the Season’ can also be enjoyed by anyone at any age!
‘Tis the Season Richard Jones
Nosy Crow with the National Trust ISBN: 978-1839946868
