I See Red

I See Red by Maggie Hutchings, illustrated by Sarah Zweck. (Thames and Hudson Australia, 2026). Hardcover picture book. RRP $26.99. ISBN 9781760764890.

Reviewed by Debra Williams

Two siblings are drawing with their crayons. The little brother uses up all the purple. The big sister grabs the yellow crayon, and it breaks. Then the trouble is made bigger when the little brother snatches it back and scribbles on the big sister’s picture. 

Big sister has a meltdown and sees red. Mum tries to calm and encourage them with a hug. She hands them paper and pencils and sends them off to quiet time.

The trouble continues between the two, as they are both full of BIG feelings.

Big sister hears little brother crying and starts thinking about all the things he does for her, like eating her broccoli so Mum never knows. At bath time, the two draw new pictures and hug each other.

Author Maggie Hutchings has previously worked as a family counsellor and mediator for many years and now writes full-time. Recommended for ages 2+ years.