The Wild Woods

I have to confess that this book has been one of my absolute favourites for many years. I came across it while working in a nursery and the impression has never faded. 

The Wild Woods by Simon James is a beautiful story. It tells the tale of a little girl called Jess who goes for a day out with her grandad. They head for the woods where Jess finds a squirrel. As any child would, Jess takes a liking to the squirrel and decides it would make a good pet. All manner of mischief then unfolds as Jess tries to make this happen! 

What makes this book really memorable is the way the illustrations manage to convey two things- the glorious wild woods and the special relationship between Jess and her Grandad. He chases along after her, indulging her every whim, even when the consequences are soggy socks! However, Jess learns from her grandad that the squirrel was not meant to be her pet. He belongs in the woods. 

This is a story that will make you want to head for the woods and start an adventure! And what could be better than that? 

Trust me, this book will be treasured for years to come. 

Shh! We have a plan

Sh We have a plan - by Chris Haughton 

I came across this book while browsing in a bookshop after work this week. I can't believe I didn't know it already, it's sooooo good! I think there were a few strange looks when I was giggling to myself while flipping through the pages! 

This is a story about four friends who 'have a plan' to catch a bird in the forest. However the littlest one doesn't seem to understand 'the plan,' or has a plan of his own! 

This book is a great read for young children who are developing language skills. The simple narrative and repetition make it perfect for budding storytellers. I defy any child not to join in with 'shh! We have a plan!' 

The illustrations are simple and stylised and yet the expressions on their faces will not get past you! 

I think this is going to be one of my new favourites! Shh, we have a plan! 

Let me know if you love this book too :)

The Crocodile Who Didn't Like Water

The Crocodile who didn't Like Water by Gemma Merino is a great little story and has been recommended for review by my favourite six year old, Poppy. It tells the story of a little crocodile who just doesn't feel like he fits in. His brothers and sisters love to swim and play in the pool but he does not. He tries his best to join in but it doesn't work and he always goes away feeling sad. But then we find out that there is a very good reason that he doesn't like what other crocodiles like, a very good reason indeed! 

This story shows that it's ok to feel different sometimes and that we all have our strengths. Children adore the illustrations of all the little crocodiles and there are multiple opportunities to include early counting skills while reading this story. 

A true favourite with the children, be prepared to read it many, many times! 

Marcello the Mouse and the Masked Ball

What better way to kick off my story book blog than by reviewing one of my all time favourites?! 'Marcello the Mouse and the Masked Ball' by Julie Monks is an absolute story time treat. It tells the tale of a little mouse who lives in Venice who takes his chances and makes his way to the 'pussycat ball.' He disguises himself with a Venetian mask and has the time of his life until......his mask falls off! But the cats will surprise you! This book has beautiful illustrations which create a gorgeously rich backdrop to the lovely story. The details draw the children in and I have yet to read it to a group of children who do not notice the 'princess mouse' hiding away on the last page.

Julie Monks, will there be a 'princess mouse' sequel?

The children I used to read this story with loved to watch video clips of singing gondoliers afterwards.

I had originally made a finger puppet to go with this lovely story but left it with the children at nursery. So here is my latest version, complete with Venetian mask and gondola. He is free to the first person to message me!

I'm sure you will love this story too, let me know what you think.

Louise x