Poppy Makes Pockets

Poppy Makes Pockets by Jemima Parker & Karen Erasmus. Hardcover picture book published by EK Books in 2026. RRP $24.99. ISBN 9781921497131

Reviewed by Debra Williams

Whilst out walking with her Mum and dog, Poppy collects some treasures: a smooth stone, a feather, a shiny button and a rattling seedpod. But she doesn’t have anywhere to put them, as Poppy’s dress doesn’t have pockets. Once back at home, she empties her wardrobe and sorts her clothing into two piles, large and small, to find something to wear that has pockets. But all she can find is a large, thick coat, which is too heavy to wear on a hot summer day.

Poppy has an idea, and gathers some sewing supplies: an old t-shirt, scissors, needles, thread and pins. All afternoon, she fashions pockets for her pinafore and sews them on. The next day, when she notices that her friend Linh doesn’t have pockets either, she has another idea and gathers old T-shirts from her family members. Poppy sets up a street stall offering free pockets to anyone who needs them.

This warm, crafty story celebrates fairness, creativity and community, and shows how even small hands can stitch big changes into the world. The end paper illustrations are gorgeous, showing the young reader how to sew their own pockets. And look out for the cute dog in the illustrations, especially when he is staring at a Kookaburra perched on the clothesline.

Poppy Makes Pockets is suitable for children ages 5-8.