Book Reviews – August 2018

Maya & Cat

Written & Illustrated by Caroline Magerl

Maya lures a lost cat off a nearby roof, and sets about trying to find its home. After door-knocking unsuccessfully around her neighbourhood, Maya and Cat cycle through town until they finally find Cat’s quirky owners. As Maya prepares to say a sad farewell to her new furry friend, Cat gives her a gift to ensure she never forgets their adventure. This is a beautifully illustrated tale of friendship and determination, for cat-lovers aged 3-7.

Want to Play Trucks?

Written by Ann Stott, Illustrated by Bob Graham

In this era of books, toys and games being clearly designated ‘for boys’ and ‘for girls’, it’s great to see a book that challenges these gender stereotypes. Alex likes playing with dolls that dance and wear tutus, and his friend Jack prefers running trucks through the sandpit where they meet each day to play. Together they find a creative solution that combines both their favourite toys, proving that the friendship they share is stronger than their differences. Brought to life by Bob Graham’s simple yet evocative style of illustration, this is a wonderful story to read with children aged 2-6.

Welcome: A Mo Willems Guide for New Arrivals

Written & Illustrated by Mo Willems

Hot on the heels of Oliver Jeffers’ incredible Here We Are: Notes for Living on Planet Earth comes another brilliant book to introduce newborn babies to the world. Mo Willem’s sense of humour is familiar to many of us who have read his hilarious Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! books and the Elephant and Piggie series. In Welcome he presents a step-by-step guide for babies entering the big wide world, explaining everything they will encounter here – from music and bagels to ice cream disasters. The simple illustrations are perfect for newborns, and the funny, insightful text will appeal to grown-up readers. Willems’ overarching message of love makes this a perfect gift for new babies and their parents.

Are You My Bottom?

Written by Kate & Jol Temple, Illustrated by Ronojoy Ghosh

From husband and wife writing team Kate and Jol Temple comes this funny rhyming book for readers aged 2-6. When little Panda loses his bottom, he sets out on a journey to track it down. But each rear end he spots actually belongs to one of his other animal friends, from a moose’s caboose to a baboon’s bum. With their help a lot of persistence, Panda finally finds his behind right where he left it. The bright, colourful illustrations perfectly complement the whimsical text, and the subject matter (bottoms!) will make this book instantly appealing to young children.