Lulu

Lulu by Georgie Donaghey illustrated by Ann-Marie Finn (Dragon Tales Publishing)

PB RRP: $17.95

ISBN 9780992523954

Reviewed by Yvonne Mes

Lulu is a bear with a creative soul needing to be expressed, so she moves from her icy lands to the big city lights. Here she is right at home dancing and singing and being adored by her fans until she realises how much she misses her friends back home. Luckily they know just what to do.

Written in rhyme that doesn’t miss a beat and beautifully illustrated, this adorable bear shows that you can have it all if only you reach for it.

Yvonne Mes is a children's writer and illustrator. Her picture books, Meet Sidney Nolan (Random House) and Oliver’s Grumbles (Dragon Tales Publishing) are scheduled for release in October 2015. www.yvonnemes.com

Teddy Took the Train

Teddy Took the Train by Nicki Greenberg (Allen & Unwin)

PB RRP $19.99

ISBN 9781760112134

Reviewed by Yvonne Mes

This picture book with its alluring title and subject is certain to attract young children.

The story tells of little Dot who realises she has left her Teddy on the train after a day out with Mum. Shocked and horrified at first, she soon soothes herself by imaging just what her Teddy is getting up to on the train and how he will find his way home.

The book is written in rhyme and rolls along interspersed with the refrain of and repetition of the title. The illustrations paint an environment inclusive of different abilities and cultures.  The characters though depicted cartoon-like are softened by the warm textured backgrounds.

Young children will be able to relate to losing a treasured comfort toy and Dot’s highs and lows in being reunited with her Teddy.

Yvonne Mes is a children's author. Her first picture book, Meet Sidney Nolan (Random House) is scheduled for release in October 2015. www.yvonnemes.com