Reviewed by Karen Hendriks
Tom Jellett is a well-known Sydney-based illustrator
with a distinctive style that has brought charm and character to many beloved
children’s books, including Australia at the Beach by Max Fatchen and The
Littlest Pirate series by Sherryl Clark. His latest work, the Aussie
Baby’s First Words series, is a delightful collection of board books
designed to introduce Australian toddlers to everyday vocabulary in a fun and
engaging way.
The first book in the series, Dinner Time!
focuses on mealtime vocabulary. Children are introduced to familiar items such
as bowls, spoons, and cups—all illustrated with a distinctly Australian flair.
It’s an excellent way to help little ones become familiar with daily routines
and local terminology. The book features a vibrant orange cover with a toddler
front and centre, happily eating. Jellett’s signature style—particularly in the
expressive eyes and face is instantly recognisable. The text adopts a warm, conversational
tone, much like a parent speaking to a child: “Hello Baby! It’s time for
dinner.” Each featured item is highlighted in bold primary colours, framed
in warm orange, yellow, or blue, with the item’s name placed clearly underneath
to aid early word recognition.
Continuing the series, Bed Time! focuses on
bedtime rituals. The book includes familiar nighttime essentials such as nappy,
onesie, and sleeping bag, all presented through the comforting lens of
Australian culture. This title features a bright blue cover, with a baby
holding a bedtime toy front. The design aligns visually with Dinner Time!
making it instantly recognisable as part of the book series. The background
colours shift to calming tones of blue, pink, and purple, distinguishing it
from the mealtime-themed palette of the first book, while maintaining a
cohesive look.
Tom Jellett’s illustrations are bold, bright, and
unmistakably Australian. His work brings warmth and playfulness to each page,
making the books both educational and visually appealing for young readers.
The Aussie Baby’s First Words board books are ideal
for parents, grandparents, and caregivers looking to introduce toddlers to
Australian-themed vocabulary in a fun, colourful, and engaging way. With their
vibrant colours, clear layout, and relatable content, they would make a great
addition to any child’s early learning library.
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