Hello to You, Moon

Hello to You, Moon written by Sally Morgan, illustrated by Sonny & Biddy (Little Hare Books) HB RRP $24.99  ISBN 9781760125462

Reviewed by Liz Ledden

A poetic, rhythmical counting book (but so much more), Morgan’s Hello to You, Moon examines the various creatures which swing, prowl, leap and scurry under the light of the moon.

Each creature featured salutes the moon in their own way, from hooting owls to roaring lions. Each spread progresses from one to ten with an accompanying animal family, as the moon journeys from twilight through midnight to the brightening sky of the following day.

This would make a brilliant bedtime story for babies through to pre-schoolers, with much to engage, including rhyme, action and animal noises. Sonny and Biddy’s graphic illustrations with an overarching purple palette are the perfect, vibrant accompaniment to the text.

Captain Sneer the Buccaneer

Captain Sneer the Buccaneer by Penny Morrison (Walker Books)

HB RRP $24.99

ISBN 9781922179609

Reviewed by Ashling Kwok

Get ready for a rollicking good time with this fun, rhyming story about a boastful pirate. Captain Sneer thinks he is rough and tough and bold and brave, but readers soon find out things are not what they seem. Join Captain Sneer and his merry men as they go on an adventure sailing the seas in search of treasure.

This comical tale by Penny Morrison is packed with action which will delight young readers and leave them wanting more. The illustrations by Gabriel Evans are fantastic and the exquisite colour palette brings the images to life.

Readers will delight in the energetic, rhythmical nature of the text, which will encourage children to read along and become involved in the story.

Imagine how much fun children will have reading these words aloud:

“I’m Captain Sneer, the buccaneer. My crew salute when I pass near.
I’m rough and tough, I’m brave and bold. I sail the seas for gold, gold, GOLD!”

Captain Sneer the Buccaneer is a creative, humorous, and entertaining tale that children and adults will enjoy. It will appeal to both boys and girls and will soon become a family favourite.

Little Why

Little Why written and illustrated by Jonny Lambert (Little Tiger Press) PB RRP $16.99

ISBN 9781848691834

Reviewed by Liz Ledden

Cute baby elephant Little Why struggles to stay in line as he marches along to the watering hole with his elders. He diverts from the path each time he spots a creature he aspires to be like, from the leggy giraffe, to crocodile with its ‘snippy-snappy snazzy snout’. When his request for their features is constantly denied by the older elephant, Little Why asks ‘Why?’ to the reply of ‘Keep in line!’

The images are striking, with the use of white space accentuating the animal characters, which are reminiscent of Eric Carle’s illustrations. Some fun features on each spread include the busy little orange and purple insects, and Little Why’s ever-faithful bird companion – extra layers to examine during repeat reads.

Repetition, alliteration and rhythm result in some lovely language, culminating in a message of self-acceptance. Although, it takes one of the elephant elders to point out Little Why’s unique attributes – it would have perhaps been more powerful if Little Why came to this conclusion himself. Nevertheless, Little Why is a charming and beautifully designed book with a strong, evergreen theme.

Together Always

Together Always written by Edwina Wyatt, illustrated by Lucia Masciullo (Little Hare Books/Hardie Grant Egmont)

HB RRP $24.99

ISBN 9781742979632

Reviewed by Liz Ledden

Best friends Pig and Goat are always together, no matter what happens to hang from the trees in their orchard. They constantly reassure each other, and promise to always stick together. Their different personality traits create a harmonious balance – Goat cheers Pig up with stories, while Pig sings Goat to sleep. Their pact to remain together, always, seems to be working out, until one night Goat is inspired to venture beyond their home.

Pig would rather not leave home, but sticks to their agreement and reluctantly follows. It is clear Pig and Goat now want different things, and they sadly part ways. In their attempt to live apart, each is reminded of the other through memories sparked in nature, depicted beautifully in Masciullo’s gentle pencil and watercolour art.

This is an endearing book about friendship, change and compromise, and about allowing those we love to follow their dreams. The story also demonstrates that when you’re unable to physically be with your loved ones, they can still be in your heart.

Wyatt uses repetition and rhythm to great effect in this heartwarming tale. Together Always would make a wonderful read for someone about to enter a period of change

Snow Day

Snow Day by Sam Usher (Koala Books)

HB RRP $19.99

ISBN 978-1-74276-116-9

Reviewed by Jenny Heslop

Imagine the excitement off waking up to a world covered in snow. When this happens for one little boy he is impatient to go outside and play, but Granddad is SO slow at getting ready. What if they miss all the fun?

This is a beautifully simple story about the frustrations of waiting and of the joyful surprises which may be just around the corner. Some things are definitely worth the wait.

The language of Snow Day is straightforward and flows in a deeply satisfying way. As Granddad slowly gets ready…         

          'I said, "Don't forget the snow!'

          And he said, “Don’t forget your scarf!"

This exchange forms part of the rhythm of the story, as does the wide, white expanse of snow which starts off clean and fresh, but is slowly filled with footprints, then people, then neighborhood dogs as the young boy sits on his front steps waiting for Granddad.

The crisp, clear illustrations evoke feelings of a sunny but cold day, just what’s required for the perfect snow day. And it is through these pictures the surprise is slowly revealed.

This is a happy book, full of wonder, imagination and fun. And being a large, sturdy hardback it should be up to countless.

Those Pesky Rabbits

Those Pesky Rabbits by Ciara Flood (Koala Books for Scholastic)

HB RRP $24.99

ISBN 978-1-74276-144-2

Reviewed by Jenny Heslop

Bear was perfectly happy living by himself in the middle of nowhere. Then one day a family of rabbits built a house and moved in next door. Those Pesky Rabbits is a fun story about a grumpy bear and his new neighbours who constantly want to borrow, share, and include him in their activities and lives. All Bear wants is to be left alone.  Or does he?

This thoroughly enjoyable picture book shows the power of kindness, community, consideration for others and generosity of spirit.

A nice sense of rhythm is created with the repetitive nature of the story - the knock, knock of the rabbits at the door and the bear’s grumpy answers - make the story just right for preschool aged children and enjoyable for their adult readers. There is a wonderful echo of the beginning in the ending. It is the same yet completely different, giving a real sense of closure.

The illustrations are gorgeous and give fabulous characteristics to the animal's personalities. They also provide much to look at - follow the journey of the mouse throughout the pictures.

Those Pesky Rabbits has a lovely and important message, and is told in a gentle, amusing way. Skilfully and entertainingly written, this picture book will be a hit with young children. The last line may well become a phrase children say with relish at the end of the story each and every time this picture book is read to them.

This is an impressive debut from author-illustrator Ciara Flood.