Picture Books

Name: Letterbox Library
Telephone: +442085347502
Price range: £19-£330

#Goldilocks: A Hashtag Cautionary Tale by Jeanne Willis illustrated by Tony Ross Ref: 16184 A child happily shares a few selfies on Instagram and then moves on to funny images of others. And, when the novelty of those dies down, she moves on to more daring material...all in a quest for Likes and More Likes, leaving an ever-muckier social media footprint. 'Captures a sense of things escalating' (Deborah, Lecturer in EY Education, LL reviewer). See also Chicken Clicking (on internet safety) and Troll Stinks (on online bullying) by the same creative team and on this website. Age 4-7, Paperback 23pp Quantity:	15 Things Not to Do With a Baby by Margaret McAllister illustrated by Holly Sterling Ref: 2570 A wonderful list of wonderfully inappropriate responses to a new sibling by an award winning illustrator/author team. Comic, upbeat, offbeat and bursting with child-centred humour. (Mixed race family). Things NOT to do with a baby include pegging them on the washing line, giving them to an octopus, swapping him for the school guinea pig. 'Great illustrations; swapping him for that lovely guinea pig is tempting!!' (Maggie, Former EY Adviser, LL reviewer). 'Funny and engaging do's and don'ts for new sisters and brothers; hints at the frustration older siblings can feel!' (Carey, Childminder, LL reviewer). Age 3-5 Paperback 24pp Quantity:
15 Things Not to Do With a Granny by Margaret McAllister illustrated by Holly Sterling Ref: 15751 First they told you what not to do with a baby* and now, this award-winning duo (including one of our very, most, absolute favourite illustrators) are back to tell you things to avoid doing with a granny. From not giving her squashed jelly beans on toast for breakfast to not interrupting her karate (Holly Sterling is herself something of a karate champion...) to not putting her pants on your head... some easy-to-follow rules on how to keep your granny or, indeed, both your grannies tip-top-happy! A very affectionate tribute to grandparents with not a 'granny' stereotype in sight. [Mixed race family]. Age 3-6, Paperback 26pp Quantity:	Ada Twist, Scientist by Andrea Beaty illustrated by David Roberts Ref: 2629 "Why does it tick and why does it tock? Why don't we call it a granddaughter's clock?" The day she turns three, Ada begins a lifetime of asking, "WHY?" . For Ada, everything is a potential quiz, riddle and puzzle to be unravelled. Her parents are frazzled. Her teachers are frazzled. But, in the end, everyone recognises that at the core of all this chaos and testing and answering is a budding and brilliant scientist. A book guaranteed to pique children's interest in STEM subjects. Fantastic rhythms and rhymes, scrummy illustrations with fantastic detailing; this is what people mean when they talk about a perfect picture books- a flweless dialogue between text and illustration. From the creators of the much-loved Rosie Revere, Engineer and Iggy Peck, Architect. But, inspired by the stories of Ada Lovelace and Marie Curie, this is perhaps our favouritest so far... You can see 2 of our teen reviewers sharing their own views on Ada Twist here. Age 4-7, Hardback 30pp Quantity:
A Bear Hug at Bedtime by Jana Novotny Hunter illustrated by Kay Widdowson Ref: 15820 Gran plays at Tiger Gran in her stripy orange jumper; Mum is a mischief-making monkey; Dad is a hungry hairy bear. A child relishes a day of imaginative play, travelling across jungles, deserts and oceans, with all her family members joining in. A warm-as-toast celebration of extended family life starring a child who just so happens to wear a hearing aid. [Mixed race family]. 'Delightful from the first page to the last! Great concept, great range of family members, colours, ages, activities. This book made me smile from page 1 to the end' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 30pp Quantity:	A Beginner's Guide to Bearspotting by Michelle Robinson illustrated by David Roberts Ref: 2729 Balaclava. Check. Tin cup., Check. Woollen mitts. Check. Field notebook. Check. And now for your guide...An intrepid bear discoverer is guided through the behaviour and tendencies of the black bear, a.k.a Ursus Americanus, and the brown bear, a.k.a Ursus Horiblis. Includes advice on playing dead. A chatty voiceover with a text which expands and shrinks and skews and bellows with exclamations. Roberts' beautiful, trademark design-led illustrations- big grizzlies are carefully etched out on graph paper and an autumn palette of browns and oranges is suddenly splattered with the fuchsia pink of exploding bubble gum!. 'This book is so so so good. Every aspect has been well thought out. The plot is so developed and funny and simple yet complicated. Love the illustrations' (Sonia, Deputy Primary Head, LL reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 29pp Quantity:
A Farmer's Life + QR Code by Jan Dobbins illustrated by Laura Huliska-Beith, sung by The Flannery Brothers Ref: 2424 "1, 2, 3, it's a farmer's life for me!" A group of children muck out on a farm collecting eggs, counting lambs, picking cherries and raking hay. "Upbeat, jovial text" (EY Adviser, LL reviewer); "great to see girls and women farming & male farmer baking" (LL staff). Great outdoors rhyming fun, backnotes on working farms and a watch and sing along CD. Age 3-6, Paperback + QR Code for audio and video, 22pp Quantity:	Alfie Ref: 2873 Subtitled, "The turtle that disappeared". From Nia's point of view, her very beloved pet turtle just ups and leaves the night before her seventh birthday...which isn't Alfie's perspective on what happened at all. Hear the turtle's side of the story. 'A perfect story book. Very touching with moments of great humour. [Extra bonus points for the info. on hibernation]' (Fen, Letterbox Library staff). 'Beautifully illustrated. Thoughtful, clever attention to detail' (Farrah, CLPE Learning Programme Leader, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, American Import Hardback 37pp Quantity:
Aalfred and Aalbert Ref: 16589 Two aardvarks, Aalfred and Aalbert, seem destined to never meet even though they would very much like to be one of a pair or one of a two. Can a broccoli floret bring them together in a life of happy-ever-after? A story of love and belonging, ever so simply (and comically) told. 'I just loved this. It made me laugh out loud. An utterly charming story about how people who are happy apart can be even happier together' (Mark, Equalities Trainer/Consultant, Letterbox Library reviewer). A story of friendship, new beginnings or perhaps-also- queer love. Age 3-7, Paperback 28pp Quantity:	Abdul's Lazy Sons by Katie Dale illustrated by Shahab Shamshirsaz Ref: 17107 There was once a farmer with 3 sons. While he toils away at the land, his sons do precisely nothing (except sleeping, eating and face-checking at the mirror). In despair, he decides to teach them a little lesson in hard work. But will the farm survive? With backnote tips for nurturing independent readers. Age 5-8, Paperback 20pp £4.99 Quantity:
All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold illustrated by Suzanne Kaufman Ref: 16540 Watch a group of children go about their school day all the way through to home time...and the start of the very next day! A maximum-celebratory tribute to a gloriously diverse school community made up of different family structures (incl. same-sex parents), different faiths (incl. Sikh, Jewish and Muslim) and one where girls and boys (plus a gender-ambiguous child) and disabled children (wheelchair user, a visually impaired child) all share the same, equally active play and learning. Overarching all the activities is a strong message about welcoming children from every part of the globe, so also perfect for countering anti-immigrant sentiments. Very funny illustrations with lots of detail to take in (we especially loved the sparkle of teeth braces alongside the gappy grins). 'A strong and very necessary message but delivered in a wonderfully child-friendly, vibrant, exciting way' (Elaine, Foster Care Associates Liaison Officer, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Fab book. Great diversity in children, families, activities...and headgear for bed!' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 36p. Quantity:	Amazing Ref: 2897 Meet Zibbo, a small, yellow-spotted, pet dragon with fantastic roaring and fire-breathing skills. Ibbo is a little different to the children but he is much loved and, most importantly of all, he is one little child's best friend. Together they dance under disco balls, snack and burp, sail in pirate ships. A blast of a book which celebrates imaginative play and is narrated by a fiercely active, joyful and boisterous child who also happens to be a wheelchair user. You don't get much more upbeat and positive than this! 'Fab book. Great illustrations, great central character, great diversity in the wealth of other children too!' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, LL reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 24pp Quantity:
The Ammuchi Puchi by Sharanya Manivannan illustrated by Nerina Canzi Ref: 2846 "Ammuchi's mouth was always stained with betelnut juice, so she looked like she had been drinking blood. When she laughed, her teeth looked like she had brushed them with chilli powder. Ammuchi laughed a lot". Aditya and Anjali adore their rather off-beat grandmother, Ammuchi; they especially like listening to her magical ghost stories. When grandma dies, the family is bereft. But then, in the middle of their mourning, a mysterious orange butterfly begins to make a regular appearance, fluttering on Anjali's nose, dropping gentle kisses on her face... Anjali swears the butterfly is her grandma come back with an important message for them. A magical, soothing story by an Indian author with illustrations so bright they seem to have drained the entire colour palette! 'Such a lovely story. I like the implicit acceptance of death and sadness but the richness of memory' (Eileen, Former Teacher, LL reviewer). 'Stunning and vibrant illustrations and a wonderful story' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Manager, LL reviewer). Age 6-9 Paperback 29pp. Quantity:	Anansi and the Sheep by Adam Bushnell illustrated by Nuno Alexandre Viera Ref: 17101 Your favourite West African trickster is back. In this story, an act of kindness leads to all sorts of chaos...and trickery. Anansi comes across a lean-looking sheep surviving off dried grass. He feels sure he can get him to lusher plains and so, in one deft move, he breaks the sheep free. As they run away, they're accosted by a lion, then a cheetah, then a panther. To all of them, Anansi frightens them off with a tall, tall tale of the sky falling down. But will they ever reach pastures new? Ideal for newly independent readers and with backnotes for extra reading support. Age 6-8, Paperback 20pp Quantity:
And Tango Makes Three by Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell illustrated by Henry Cole Ref: 426 'Tango was the very first penguin in the zoo to have two daddies.' A gentle book which effortlessly normalises a same-sex family unit. 'Our children enjoyed it very much' (Pre-School Supervisor, Letterbox reviewer). Age 3-7, Paperback 31pp *Themes:* LGBTQ+, Families, Fostering and Adoption Quantity:	Anna Hibiscus' Song by Atinuke illustrated by Lauren Tobia Ref: 0094 A delightful tale about a child who is absolutely bursting and popping with happiness. 'Very positive portrayal of extended family life (mixed race marriage)' (Children's Services Coordinator, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 32pp Quantity:
Astro Girl Ref: 2935 Dedicated to all the girls who "dream of exploring the stars." Astrid has such a dream. And she's getting the practise in: papa spins her around to mimic a spaceship's orbit; he tosses her up high to get her used to near-zero gravity; she chews on cereal bars in prep for a diet of tube food. And she learns from a role model who is surprisingly close to home... "An empowering message stitched in to just darn good storytelling" "What a great book! I love the warm relationship portrayed between the father and Astrid...very positive message throughout of Astrid's aspiration to be an astronaut" (Fen and Jayne, staff and Inclusion Manager, Letterbox Library reviewers). Comes with a double page spread at the back full of space facts including a roll call of women astronauts. Letterbox Library had the joy of being consulted on an early manuscript- and as long term fans of Ken Wilson-Max we felt like all our Christmases had arrived early. The illustrations chuckle with Wilson Max's trademark smudgy-warm palette. Age 4 to 7, Hardback 24pp Read about this book in our article in Write4Children Journal (June 2013) Quantity:	Azzi In Between Ref: 0165 Winner Little Rebels Award 2013 A smashing, Amnesty-endorsed, story of a family's escape from war and their journey to a strange new country (probably the UK). Realistic and positive. Told in a super child-friendly, comic-style, format. Age 7-11, Paperback 36pp Quantity:
Baby Goes to Market by Atinuke illustrated by Angela Brooksbank Ref: 2943 Baby is very curious. So curious that they get rewarded with goods from different market sellers- oranges, chin-chin biscuits, roasted sweetcorn. Each time, Baby eats one and then puts the rest in Mama's head basket... Counts down from 6 to 1 while also demonstrating simple (minus 1) subtractions. Early mathematics skills set to the rhythms, sounds and colours of a vibrant, busy, modern West African market. Age 2-6, Paperback 29pp Quantity:	Baking With Dad Ref: 2653 A child with wonderfully sculpted sticky-uppy red hair spends a messy but productive day baking a Super Cake with Dad. Several whisks, shakes, flour sneezes and fruit-cocktail-head-dresses later and a six-tiered mountain of baked loveliness is all ready. A grand picture book (showing Dad as primary carer) which extends to the, beautifully formatted end pages animated by all sorts of household items: loo paper, yogurt moo...spiders! Age 4-7, Paperback 27pp Quantity:
Barefoot Books Children of the World by Tessa Strickland & Kate DePalma illustrated by David Dean Ref: 2674 "Every morning, millions of children open their eyes and start another day" ...And so begins this encyclopaedic, panoramic introduction to children from around the world: their homes, their diverse families (including same-sex parented and foster families), their different languages (including sign language), clothing and costumes, favourite games, special days, different faiths. A UNICEF-endorsed celebration of our global diversity, commonality and interconnectedness, nicely summed up in the text, "Every life is a story. It's easier to understand someone when you know their story." It is impossible here to summarise all the areas of diversity covered, so do please take our word for this being one of the most inclusive books we know! For example, simply the range of disabilities 'casually' shown (eye patches, shortened limbs, children with Down's syndrome) is unusual for picture books. Fantastic back notes extend out from each double page spread with a wealth of factual information. Younger children will be engaged by the simplicity of the core text while older children can think around each topic with the detailed extra notes. 'Barefoot books are always so amazing. Very inclusive, lots to talk about' (Rosalind, Workforce Dev. Officer, LL reviewer). 'Something of interest for everyone' (Maggie, EY Advisory Teacher, LL reviewer). Age 3-8, Paperback 65pp Quantity:	Bathe the Cat by Alice B. McGinty illustrated by David Roberts Ref: 16495 One of those perfectly flawless picture books which harmonises text and illustrations in a joyful, synchronised two-step. Grandma is on her way over. And so, Daddy gathers the family together and gives instructions- Bobby must rock the baby, Dad will scrub the dishes, Sarah will feed the fishes... and he will bathe the cat. And all the tasks will be spelt out clearly on the fridge magnets, with no letter-scrambling interference whatsoever from the bath-hating, nimble-pawed kitty. None at all. An absolute triumph. Robert's exquisite illustration are pared down here to a minimal fluorescent palette of oranges, pinks and yellows; bold geometric patternings settle over Daddy's shirt, Dad's cornrow styling and dashing, pineapple-retro crockery. There is so much detail to relish: lurid orange nail varnish; the wedding bands which make Dad and Daddy's relationship unambiguous; the art deco cat shampoo bottle. Above all, this beautiful piece of art celebrates family life with two fathers through tons of play, flamboyant rhythms and rhymes and merry mayhem. And, rising above all of them, is a thoroughly ingenious tabby cat. Domestic bliss in technicolour. (nb: all in this family of 5, bar one, are characters of colour). Age 4-7, Hardback 39pp Quantity:
Bea by the Sea Ref: 16645 Bea is utterly obsessed with lions. She loves everything lion-y. She doesn't like the beach or sand or anything sand-y. But, when her Mum takes her to the seaside, a Sand Lion appears and is soon introducing her to the joys of barefoot footprints, sandcastles, sea roars and sand angels! A lovely day out at the beach with a soothing message about allaying familiar childhood fears. Full marks too on the hair styling, including Bea's multicoloured hair bobbles. The inside start and end pages are chocka with facts about lions and sand facts! 'Love the main character- fun role model. A little child with a cute hairstyle too. Promotes positive story of Black children. Bea shows fear, then bravery and courage' (Ann Marie, EY Safeguarding Consultant, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Such a sweet book and a great message about overcoming fears' (Deborah, Lecturer in EY Education, Letterbox Library reviewer). Stars a Black family. Age 4-7, Paperback 34pp Quantity:	Best Friends, Busy Friends by Susan Rollings illustrated by Nichola Cowdery Ref: 16320 From "running around the playground friends" to "skipping home from school friends", all kinds of friendships are streamed across the pages of this fun, rhyming and rhythmic picture book. 'Gentle book about friendships and all its different facets- furry friends and sometimes not so kind friends. Lots of very positive images of gender and disability with all children taking an equally active part' (Rosalind, Workforce Development Officer, Letterbox Library reviewer). Superbly inclusive across all identities, including the portrayal of a range of disabilities. (wheelchair user; visually impaired child who uses a cane; child with facial marker). Age 2-5, Paperback 28pp Quantity:
The Biggest Story by Sarah Coyle illustrated by Dan Taylor Ref: 16361 Errol is bored. Errol wants another of mum's bestest stories. But mum is too busy fixing the pipework under the sink. So, Errol might just have to make up his own! Luckily there are plenty of ants and cats and stegosauruses and meerkats on hand, all eager to line up in the cast of characters. A tribute to children's inventive minds with a double page spread at the back to help prompt the reader's very own story creation.(Single Parent Family) Age 4-7, Paperback 26pp Quantity:	Billy and the Dragon Ref: 15851 A fancy-dress party disturbed by a dastardly dragon's kidnap of a cat called Fatcat. A perilous rescue mission involving a plunge into the Deep Dark Forest. A journey across treacherous landscapes (gushing waterfalls etc.) encountering savage creatures (bucktoothed bunnies, skwalking baby dragons etc.) Follow Billy on her latest adventure which ends up being only a little bit terrifying and a lot of a Very Silly Mix Up. Endearing characterisations, hilarious dialogue, brilliant artwork blazoned across full double page spreads- finished off with an smattering of adorable little bunny rabbits. Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp Quantity:
Black Dog Ref: 0101 Shortlist Kate Greenaway Medal 2013 A gorgeously illustrated and original read-aloud about a family called Hope and a Black Dog who is fearfully scary or insignificantly puppy-like depending on how you look at the world...Age 6-9, Paperback 25pp Quantity:	The Blue Bird's Palace by Orianne Lallemand illustrated by Carole Hénaff Ref: 17098 Inspired by the Russian folk tradition. On the stillest of summer nights in Blue Forest, a dashing blue bird takes a message to Nikolai- his child has just been born. He and his partner name her Natasha. Natasha grows, wanting for nothing and desiring many things... which brings its own problems. Then one day, she encounters a mysterious older woman with blazing eyes who conjures up an exquisite blue bird. And with that, Natasha's life lesson is about to begin. A gently cautionary tale about sharing and kindness. Grand storytelling, lavish full-bleed double page illustrations, Slavic motifs. A perfect read aloud. Age 5-9, Paperback 30pp Quantity:
Bodies Are Cool Ref: 16840 "Freckled bodies, dotted bodies, rosy-patched or speckled bodies. Bodies are cool!" A glorious anthem to our body diversity. The simplest of text and smiliest of illustrations show young children that every body is okay, whatever their size or shape, however wiggly, whatever their skin colour. All hairstyles work: poofy, springy or no hair at all. Hair, generally, is 'in', from leg hair to brows-meet-in-the-middle hair. Welcome scars, stretchmarks, innies, outies, stubby fingers, wrinkly fingers! This is a wonderful homage to our human forms which fittingly embraces a range of disabilities, ethnicities, faiths and, implicitly, gender identities (while also challenging gender stereotypes). 'Wonderful illustrations and so colourful and interesting. So much to see. Lots to discuss' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'I would love to see the representation that is displayed within these beautiful diverse illustrations on TV as children and adults can feel less alone and have someone who looks like them to look up to' (Nicole, Teen Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 3-7, Paperback 30pp Quantity:	The Boys by Lauren Ace illustrated by Jenny Løvlie Ref: 16512 "They came to realise that no boy is an island and the bravest way to face problems is to talk and listen". The companion book to The Girls, winner of the Waterstone's Children's Book Prize 2019 and also featured on our website. Meet Rey, Nattie, Bobby and Tam and watch them grow from young children bobbing in the sea, as close as brothers, to teenagers who compete and forge impendent lives, to young men who come back together in a forever bond. Superb. A much needed and brilliantly executed challenge to toxic masculinity, promoting kindness, patience, active listening and empathy between boys/men. And we're proud to say that one of our very own reviewers, Darren Chetty (also co-author of What Is Masculinity? on this website), gave critical feedback on an early draft of this book; you may spot a (pictorial) tribute to him in the book itself! 'This is an absolute gem!! How to nurture and maintain relationships between boys/men- it's brilliant!' (Jayne, Inclusion Manager, Letterbox Library reviewers). 'Beautifully illustrated, gentle friendship story. Very inclusive. I love it. Outstanding' (June, Parent, Letterbox Library reviewer). [Extra n.b. on representation: a range of ethnicities; Nattie has two mums; Tam grows up to marry a man]. Age 4-7, Paperback 24pp Quantity:
The Boy Who Lost His Bumble Ref: 2492 A nature-loving child with a special passion for bees, logs and records each and every buzzzz. And then, suddenly one day, with the arrival of rain and frost, all of the bees disappear. Bereft and despairing, he tries all manner of things to encourage them back- from dressing up in a bee suit to creating a special beehive hotel with free wi-fi. To no avail. And then, just as suddenly, with the coming of Spring, the bees fly back! An endearing story about losing your bumble and getting it back! Follows the passing seasons and weather patterns. Excellent bumble bee back notes provide a wider context on the value of bees to our fragile eco system. Age 4-7 Paperback 28pp Quantity:	The Boy Who Loved Everyone by Jane Porter illustrated by Maisie Paradise Shearring Ref: 16027 WINNER Little Rebels Award 2020 Dimitri has just started at his nursery and, as ever, he's keen to share his love. At story time, he tells Liam he loves him. At playtime, he tells Sophie, Stella and Sue he loves them. At lunchtime, he tells the dinner lady he loves her too. And so the day goes on, with Dimitri's heart bursting with each new encounter. But he can't help noticing that no one says they love him back. Can Mum help him understand the many different manifestations of an overflowing heart? Described by Catherine Barter on the Little Rebels Award website as "A moving and nuanced picture book exploring love, friendship and emotional expression". Age 4-7, Paperback 24pp Quantity:
Brodie by Joy Cowley illustrated by Chris Mousdale Ref: 2620 "We all knew that Brodie was sick, but we thought he'd get better". So begins this story about the loss of a classmate. Brodie was an expert ear wiggler; he knew how to make fantastic farty noises; he had dreams of being a pilot; he liked to say "awesome stupendous". He often had stays in hospital and at these times his classmates would send him cards. But one day, the children are told that Brodie has died- and this time, they're invited to make cards for his parents. An award-winning book made at the request of teachers seeking bereavement books for younger children who have lost a classmate. Expertly done. 'Really lovely book. Sensitively done and not at all preachy. Most importantly it allows for a range of feelings; all valid' (Deborah, EY Education Lecturer, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'A wonderful book' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Manager, LL reviewer). Age 5-9, Paperback 33pp Quantity:	Calvin by JR and Vanessa Ford illustrated by Kayla Harren Ref: 16899 "For as long as I could remember, I knew I was a boy". And so begins one child's journey as he stands tall in his real gender and takes on his new name, Calvin, supported by his parents, brother, grandparents and by his school. And if that all makes this book sound 'worthy', think again. It really is full of joy. The protagonist's face glows and shines more and more with each page; the gestures and facial expressions we witness amongst Calvin's family members as they embrace their son/grandson is truly life-affirming. As Calvin's Dad says, "We love you if you are a girl, boy, neither, or both". This narrative is unusually (for picture books) non-binary in its approach and is also very refreshing for not over-explaining Calvin's gender identity. Calvin isn't a boy because... Calvin just is Calvin. And his surrounding world just adjusts itself to him. The simple alterations made to the school environment alone role model good practise. The book also tells a 'real' story with plenty of lightness- there is a visit to Gigi and Papa, splashes and dives at Water World, superhero costumes to fashion for the comic convention. Some lovely little touches in the classroom scene illustrations: teacher Mr J's strikingly assembled dreadlocks; 'casual' disability images include a wheelchair user, a child who wears a hearing aid, a child with vitiligo; completely ungendered breaktime play- Calvin simply picking up his skipping games with friend, Violet, where he left off. 'A brilliant primer for adults about how to embrace a trans child's identity wrapped up in an engaging children's story. What I really love is that nobody is interested in the whys and wherefores of his identity- they just accept it' (Mark Jennett, Equalities Trainer/Consultant, Letterbox Library Reviewer). 'Great book for children and adults about accepting Calvin for who he is. Really empathetic. Good to see a mixed race family central to the storyline' (Rosalind, Project Dev. Mgr., PACEY, Letterbox Library reviewer). Written by the parents of a transgender child. Age 4-7, Hardback 29pp Quantity:
The Can Caravan by Richard O'Neill illustrated by Cindy King Ref: 17245 Longlisted Little Rebels Award 2023 Janie lives with her Grandad and Mum in a caravan in a settled Traveller community. A keen learner, she's caught the engineering bug off her grandad's oldest friend, Mrs Tolen. So, when environmental health says they're not sure Mrs Tolen's caravan is still a safe environment for her, Janie is quick to initiate a major repair project, galvanising her classmates into joining her. By an internationally acclaimed storyteller who was himself raised in a Romani Gypsy family. Foregrounds recycling and upcycling as themselves key Traveller traditions and "celebrates the traditional Traveller virtues of resilience, adaptability, loyalty and independence" (Child's Play website). Threaded through with Romani terms (see the glossary on the inside page!) from "chavvie" to "vardo". "Jam-packed with relevant information about Romani travellers" (Jayne, staff and Inclusion Manager, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp Quantity:	A Child Like You by Na'ima B. Robert illustrated by Nadine Kaadan Ref: 17262 This book begins, "Somewhere out there..." We witness: a child who sees a world on fire; another who hears the cries of people seeking sanctuary; a child searching desperately for a story in which she can find herself; one who feels powerless against corporate violence and greed. "But somewhere out there..." There's a pause. And then, we begin to see all these four children as resourceful, empowered, as agents of change. Nothing about this is idealistic- all the accounts are based on real life child activists (backnotes are included): Great Thunberg, Yusra Mardini, Marley Dias and Iqbal Masih. The artwork is exceptional. Our favourite images include the portrayal of Marley Dias, lying down, surrounded by pages and pages of books which only show her characters with blond hair and white faces or anthropomorphic characters. The visual shift from the first to the second half of the book is especially striking and powerful- from images of the children stooped down or dwarfed by objects and people to images of them rising up, reaching out and towering above. Endorsed by Amnesty. 'I liked the messages of hope- everyone can be the change' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Manager, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 5-9, Hardback 24pp Quantity:
Clean It! Ref: 9913 A chatty, interactive text and merry illustrations encourage children to engage in their first 'real' tasks. Boys do housework too! Age 2-5, Paperback 23pp Quantity:	Clean Up! by Nathan Bryon illustrated by Dapo Adeola Ref: 16379 Rocket is back! (see Look Up!) And, she's off with brother Jamal and Mum to visit Grammy and Grampy, a tireless couple who run a whale-watching tour and animal sanctuary (when they're not surfing) in Jamaica. The beach seems full of promise until Rocket's usual glee is cut short by the sight of an itty-bitty baby turtle all tangled up in plastic. Soon it feels like she is spotting plastic everywhere. And so, she resolves on getting together a thumping clean-up crew. Can she get the crowds behind her? And, will Jamal ever look up from that phone? The details in Dapo's illustrations continue to be a master class in visual storytelling with more colour than a jar of Hundreds and Thousands cake sprinkles. Look out for the pet tortoise's food bowels, those salon high end hairstyles (Rocket's cornrow-puff balls combo; Jamal's ever-heightening flat top), Bahaman swallowtail butterflies, Rasta beachman's stretchy string vest, teeny plastic-beach-combing crabs, Gramp's grandad socks-n-sandals look, the row of giant fish recycle bins. A clear environmental message, complete with child-friendly beach-clearing tips, delivered by one of the brightest new picture book characters to come on the scene in recent years. Move over, Lola! (Single parent/mum; Black British author & illustrator). Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp Quantity:
The Cloud Ref: 1494 Art Class is no fun for one quiet child, sat on her own, with a fuzzy black cloud hovering over her...but a patient and fun-filled little girl resolves to find a way through the fog...Multicultural, casual images of disability, a winning text and exceptionally imaginative illustrations. Age 4-8, Paperback 27pp Quantity:	Coming to England by Floella Benjamin illustrated by Diane Ewen Ref: 16924 "My name is Floella. I lived on the beautiful island of Trinidad with Marmie, Dardie and my brothers and sisters . One day at breakfast, Dardie saw an advert in the newspaper. 'We have been invited to go to England!' he said." Dardie goes ahead with his saxophone and suitcase. Marmie follows a year later. And, finally, all the children make the journey, a 15 day trip by boat. But, despite the invite, London is very cold, very fast and not always very kind. As for Floella's hopes of meeting the queen? They seem impossible... A former famed BBC TV presenter, a Baroness and a Dame, Floella Benjamin now brings her story (previously only told in chapter book format) to a picture book audience. 'I loved this tale. Very similar to my own older siblings' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, Letterbox Library reviewer). ''I enjoyed reading this book...it gave a glimpse of the racism that Floella and many, many others faced. It is an amazing story for children as they can learn a lot. I would recommend this book to many' (Hannah, young Letterbox Library reviewer). p.s.: she does end up meeting the actual Queen, Age 4-7, Paperback 24pp Quantity:
Confessions of a Former Bully by Trudy Ludwig illustrated by Beth Adams Ref: 0164 "I'm going to tell you what you need to know about bullying". A unique take, from a bully's point of view, offering facts, tips and fantastically empowering advice. Age 8-11, American Import Paperback 43pp Quantity:	Cook It! Ref: 1006 'What's for dinner. Will you help me choose?' A chatty, interactive text and merry illustrations encourage children to engage in their first 'real' tasks. Age 2-5, Paperback 23pp Quantity:
The Colour Thief by Andrew Fusek Peters & Polly Peters illustrated by Karin Littlewood Ref: 2598 One of Letterbox Library's favourite illustrators joins forces with the very popular Peters team. "My Dad's life was full of colour. ..But one day, Dad was full up with sadness, all the way to the top. He said his sky had turned grey." A child's perspective of their parent's depression as it threatens to take over. This excellent description of mental health problems also brilliantly captures a child's anxiety, loneliness and their overwhelming guilt when faced with a parent in pain. Enhanced by evocative language ("Months were stretchy like chewing gum...") and Karin's wonderfully expressive illustrations, this is a hugely empathetic and sensitive treatment of an adult's struggle with and recovery from a period of depression- with a concerned child looking on. 'Very sensitively handled- some great figurative language' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Manager, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Much needed. Positive/reassuring resolution. Great illustrations.' (Rosalind, Workforce Dev. Commissioning Officer, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 6-9, Paperback 24pp *Themes:* Mental Health, Families Quantity:	Corey's Rock by Sita Brahmachari illustrated by Jane Ray Ref: 2956 After her 5-year-old brother dies, Isla and her parents move away from Edinburgh to the Orkney Islands, Scotland. The move brings a new school, new friends and a legend of selkies in a wild landscape which mirror and echoes and then starts to heal the grief buried deep within each family member. Layers and currents of emotion course out of a surprisingly sparse text. We especially appreciated how Isla's father manages to be honest with her about his sadness while still wrapping her up in his warm, protective bulk. The pain of bereavement is softened by the comforting repetition of symbols, the embrace of Ray's ruby-rich and light-diffused illustrations and the graceful arc of healing which drapes over the narrative. 'A beautifully told story of the pain of grief and loss and the beginning of recovery in this loving family. Ray's illustrations-always lovely- enhance the story' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, Letterbox Library reviewer). [An editorial aside: It is still all too rare a thing to see portrayals of people of colour in wild, rural UK landscapes. It is so refreshing to see characters reclaim the British country paths they have been written out of. Thank you, Sita and Jane.] [Mixed Race Family] Age 8-12, Paperback 87pp Quantity:
Covered in Adventures Ref: 16488 Dad Toby and Dad Greg have quite a challenge on their hands, persuading daughter Sasha to part with her oldest sweater. Her Dads call it "dirty"; she protests that is merely "covered in adventures". It bears all the traces and splodges of the failed volcano experiment, the go-kart building, the hungry goat encounter at the city farm and the very spill-y tomato ketchup situation. So, who will win the Battle of the Jumpers? How gorgeous. A UK-produced picture book, pitched to the very young, which centres a nurturing, loving (mixed race) family which just so happens to be headed by two Dads and which also doesn't shy away from making that relationship unambiguous- as happens in so many other narratives.... (Lovely image also of a wheelchair user from Sasha's friendship group). Age 3-6, Paperback 29pp Quantity:	Crescent Moons and Pointed Minarets: A Muslim Book of Shapes by Hena Khan illustrated by Mehrdokht Amini Ref: 16575 A wonderful follow up to Golden Domes (A Muslim Book of Colours- also on this site) and equally sumptuous on the eye. Inspired by the use of geometric shapes in Islamic Art and with rhyming text. Familiar and more unusual shapes -rectangles, octagons, cones, arches etc.- are introduced through Islamic art, architecture and culture with each spread revealing a different country. 'Beautiful illustrations and cultural information' (Elena, Community Librarian, Letterbox Library reviewer). Iranian-born, UK illustrator and Pakistani-Muslim N American author. Age 3-7, Paperback 30pp Quantity:
The Crow's Tale Ref: 2799 A traditional tale about bravery and kindness, told through gently rhymes and the most exquisite artwork- lithography is fused with watercolours throwing light across the pages and drawing out each one of Crow's bold and brilliant feathers. A written version of a Pennsylvania Lenni Lenape Indian legend which has been passed down, largely orally, through generations of Lenni Lenape Indians. 'This book is fabulous! High quality text told in rhyme and lovely, lovely illustrations. What a great debut for Naomi Howarth.' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Manager, Letterbox reviewer.) Age 4-7 Paperback 26pp Quantity:	Dad's Favourite Cookie by Gu-mi Jeong, retold by Jo Cowley illustrated by Soon-kyo Joo Ref: 2800 Set in Japan. Yuka's Dad works every day of the week making the tastiest of ramen. Yuka is very proud of him, but she also misses him so very much. Spend a day with Yuka as she and her mum try to distract themselves with a rice ball picnic in Cherry Tree Park, a visit to the local market, a brief stopover at a shrine and then...finally...the journey back home to a waiting Dad! Fantastic flourishes and details of Japanese life are conveyed through bold, lithograph-style artwork and little notes which pop up here and there with snippets about Shiba Inu- Japan's national dog- wagashi sweets and a dumpling called Yomogi dango! A further, packed, six pages of back notes show a map of Japan (with stats.) and give information about Japanese hot springs, shrines and beautifully decorated lunchboxes. From a publisher who specialises in editing English editions of a selection of Korea's best children's picture books. 'Love this book. I liked the detail about Japan and also the poignant underlying theme of the girl missing her dad' (Deborah, Lecturer in EY Education, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'A universal, familiar story of a child missing a very busy parent' (Fen, Letterbox Library staff). Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp Quantity:
Dare by Lorna Gutierrez by Polly Noakes Ref: 16087 "Dare to see when others don't...Dare to speak when others won't". Minimal rhyming text and bright splashes of colour encourage children to dare to try new things, to take a chance- and, also, to speak out, express themselves and their identities. A wonderfully toddler-friendly and toddler-empowering text which cements the rights to have opinions and to express those freely. The double page spread of adults and children bearing placards is a delight! (Includes a child who wears a hearing aid). 'What a great title- which follows through with such positive messages and very appealing illustrations' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Manager, LL reviewer ). 'Overall a very positive message that can help children to dare to do more...and know that they are allowed to speak up/voice their own opinions' (Nicole, teen Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 3-7, Paperback 28pp Quantity:	Dave and the Tooth Fairy by Verna Wilkins illustrated by Carl Pearce Ref: 967 The return of Verna Wilkins' and the Tamarind 1993 classic, now with illustrations from picture-illumination-genius, Carl Pearce. David Alexander Curtis has a wibbly wobbly tooth. Over breakfast, he sneezes it right out. The missing tooth is nowhere to be found. No tooth means no Tooth Fairy means no money means no new kite. These are desperate times. Will Dave find his tooth before night falls? The very welcome return of a very fine picture book- reintroduce yourselves to Afiya, the highly contemporary tech-expert Tooth Fairy, Grandad and his lively set of teeth, best friend Ziz and...David Alexander Curtis. (nb: Ziz is a wheelchair user). Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp Quantity:
A Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo by Jill Twiss (with Marlon Bundo) illustrated by EG Keller Ref: 15567 This text is a real beam of loveliness whether you read it simply as a tale about a devoted bunny or whether you read it within the context of its genesis: Vice President (VP) Pence, notorious for his anti-LGBT opinions, created a children's book with his family entitled Marlon Bundo's A Day in the Life of the Vice President detailing a fictional day in the life of the Vice President's pet rabbit. Twiss' parody-released one day earlier than Pence's book- is delicious. Here, Bundo the bunny is hopping about in the VP's home grounds when he spies a bunny called Wesley. They fall instantly in love and take to hopping through the garden, inside the stuffy old VP's house and down the stuffy house's stairs making "beautiful creaky stair-music together". Such is the happiness of their hopping marathon that they decide to get married and announce this to their friends, Phil and Dennis the bugs, Pumpernickel the badger, Dill Prickle the hedgehog. But The Stink Bug, who is in charge of life in the gardens does an absolute refusal insisting that Boy Bunnies can only marry Girl Bunnies. Will Bundo and Wesley get to tie the bunny knot? An adult parody works flawlessly as an upbeat, thoroughly hoppity hop, almost painfully endearing (yet not saccharine) story about a same sex couple who want to make their vows. There are some excellent, child-friendly, points made about democracy and authority along the way too. An expert picture book. And, we haven't even had time to mention the wonderful, glowing, warm, illustrations which feel like a hug of soft fur. Age 4-7, American Import, Hardback 31pp Quantity:	The Day War Came by Nicola Davies illustrated by Rebecca Cobb Ref: 16305 "War took everything, war took everyone". A child's perspective on war: its sudden devastation; the loss of all she knows; the way it stalks her in her new 'home' as adults shut their doors on her and turn away...until, finally, a small child brings her a chair and a place. A devastating and brilliant picture book provoked by the UK government's refusal in 2016 to give sanctuary to 3,000 unaccompanied child refugees, inspiring a wave of quiet, powerful activism by some of our most loved children's authors and illustrators. 'Very moving in both text and images. Very necessary' (June, Parent, LL reviewer). Endorsed by Amnesty International. For more on the #3000chairs movement, visit here: https://www.theguardian.com/childrens-books-site/gallery/2016/may/03/3000chairs-empty-chairs-of-syrian-refugees Together, this article, this movement and this book provide very rich materials for schools to explore. Age 4-10, Paperback 27pp Quantity:
Desmond and the Very Mean Word by Archbishop Desmond Tutu & D. C. Abrams illustrated by A.G. Ford Ref: 0128 A wonderfully thoughtful story about bullying, friendship and the freedom of forgiveness, based on a real episode from Archbishop Tutu's childhood. Set in South Africa. Dreamy illustrations. Age 6-9, Paperback 29pp Quantity:	Dinosaur Rap by John Foster, sung by Mikey Henry Jr. illustrated by Debbie Harter Ref: 2735 "There's a Saltopus strutting, swaying to the beat / Hoping and bopping and taping his feet". With a repeated chorus to join in with- "Come on everybody, shake a claw!"- this will be a real pleasure for dinosaur fans. Strong rhythms and rhymes, bright and swishy illustrations, a CD with animations and dino sing-alongs, a brilliant 'Who's Who' of dinosaurs on the backpages and a detailed, illustrated guide to the ages of the dinosaurs, from the Triassic era right up until the current, Quarternary era. Add to this a representative group of children- including a child with a hearing aid and one with a walking (or should that be boogie?!) frame- who step up to the beat in dino-matching costumes and you have Dino Love as a complete, child-friendly, package. 'Lovely, bright illustrations, lots of movements, CD with roars to dance to, inclusive disability images. Yes!' (Maggie, Former Early Years Adviser, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp Quantity:
Dogs Don't Do Ballet by Anna Kemp illustrated by Sara Ogilvie Ref: 14409 This dog doesn't do proper dog stuff, like flea scratching or stick-chasing. This dog thinks he's a ballerina. So, when all those around him insist that doing ballet isn't a very doggy-like thing to do, he sinks into a howling depression. But with a little stealth, a comfy tutu and a quite astounding Arabesque, this dog may be about to prove everyone wrong. A fun and gentle take on smashing gendered expectations. Age 4-7, Paperback 28pp Quantity:	Each Kindness by Jacqueline Woodson illustrated by E. B. Lewis Ref: 0163 New girl, Maya, looks different in her ragged hand-me-downs and she's always left playing on her own. A wise, thoughtful, everyday story about exclusion & kindness. An award-winning team and one of the most moving picture books we have seen. Age 5-8, American Import Hardback 30pp Quantity:
Equal To Everything: Judge Brenda and the Supreme Court by Afua Hirsch illustrated by Henny Beaumont Ref: 15927 You may well have heard of Judge Brenda in the context of the Supreme Court's ruling back in September 2019 in which Boris Johnson's proroguing of parliament was found to be unlawful. You may also have seen the extensive media coverage of Judge Brenda's... brooches! (most notoriously an exceptionally large arachnid as she read out said ruling). But did you know that Judge Brenda was the first woman to become a Law Commissioner? And the first ever woman to be a judge in the UK's Supreme Court (remaining so until 2017- there are now 3)? And the first woman to be made President of the Supreme Court? If that record isn't grand and inspiring enough for the children in your life, then they might well enjoy hearing about her legislative roles in the fight for equal pay and the pivotal part she played in writing the Children Act 1989 which placed children's safety and happiness at the centre of child welfare decisions. (N.B.: she was also a celebrity judge on MasterChef 2018!) A truly rousing narrative and with a fabulous narrative perspective- the Supreme Court and Judge Hale are introduced through the keen voice of Ama on her trip with Class 3 from Richmond, Yorkshire to London's centre. Perhaps where this book triumphs most is in getting children to imagine themselves as the judges of the future- the final image of 12 members of Class 3 (including children from a range of faiths, ethnicities and a wheelchair user), now all grown up, poised in their judges' regalia, contrasts exquisitely with the earlier portrait of the current Supreme Court: all white; mostly male. As the book's publicity material says: "depicts a positive and aspirational vision of the Supreme Court for the future". There is so much for a classroom to exploit in this book; includes extension notes and archive pics at the back. Rhyming couplets and Beaumont's vibrant splashes of watercolour keep the text super-animated and engaging. Published by the Legal Action Group and written by a former barrister. Favourite illustrations: Judge Brenda in full gown and wig, gloved up in a boxing ring; a Black Rosie Riveter placard blazing out from a sea of women protestors. ['Casual' inclusion of a Black protagonist, multicultural characters and a child who is a wheelchair user]. Age 6-9, Hardback 34pp SPECIAL OFFER £10.00, USUALLY £12.99 Quantity:	Errol's Garden Ref: 2876 Errol has plenty of green fingers. But his flat doesn't have nearly enough space for all of his seedlings and pottings. But then, he discovers the roof at the top of his tower block and an idea begins to germinate, in every sense of the word. He just needs a little bit of help from his friends. A great, positive boost of a story as a hugely diverse community come together to create something very beautiful which then spreads across the skyline... The strawberries look delish! 'Lovely to see a creative approach to gardening in the city and the power of working together' (Rosalind, Workforce Dev. Officer, LL reviewer). 'This book's illustrations and story made my smile' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, LL reviewer). Age 3-6, Paper27pp Quantity:
Everybody Has a Body Ref: 16905 "...some are hairy, some are smooth; some are clumsy, while others groove; some are old, some are new; bodies come in every hue; it makes us different and makes you YOU". A simple, but very effective celebration of everyone's physical uniqueness, as demonstrated by all kinds of wibbly, wobbly and blobby characters. Our favourite characters are an elephant-lifting wheelchair user with retro 1980's aerobic accessories, a cheekily grinning eye patch wearer and a weightlifter sporting a heart-themed singlet. 'Bright pictures, simple rhyming couplets, diversity of blobs, simple, sweet message' (Patrice, children's/YA author, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Great to read aloud...I especially liked the casual wheelchair images' (June, Parent, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 26pp Quantity:	Farmer Falgu Goes to the Kumbh Mela by Chitra Soundar illustrated by Kanika Nair Ref: 2739 The much-loved Farmer Falgu, is seen here making his way to the Kumbh Mela. A lovely little introduction to the Hindu 'Festival of the Pot', held once every 12 years at four sacred riverside places, drawing pilgrims from across India and the world. The upbeat, simple text is enhanced by highlighted, coloured words introducing festival essentials such as jalebis and sweet lassi and the procession of sadhus (holy men). Vibrant illustrations- the men draped in wreaths of orange blossom is especially fine. Nice backnote on the festival. 'Lovely to see such a rich culture being brought to life so vividly. Lots of info. for practitioners and parents to convey its meaning' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 27pp Quantity:
Fearless: The Story of Daphne Caruana Galizia Ref: 16074 The true story of Daphne Caruana Galizia. From a very young age, Daphne led a life of passionate resistance and truth-telling. As a journalist, blogger and activist, she uncovered corruption at the highest level in Maltese politics. In 2017 she was assassinated. Award winning illustrator (Maltese but lives in London) Gattaldo has achieved that rare feat in children's literature: turning hard-hitting and complex material- freedom of speech, protest, justice, fake news- into a wholly age-appropriate and child-friendly narrative. The text is sparse and accessible; the minimal palette illustrations, which bleed and sweep autumnal colours across the pages , are satisfyingly heavy with symbolism and storytelling in their own right. It feels like a real gift to have this extraordinary activist's life translated for our youngest minds. Thank you, Gattaldo, and thank you publishers Otter-Barry Books. Endorsed by Amnesty International. Age 6-10, Hardback 26pp Quantity:	First Time: Big Day Out Ref: 2428 A lively day out at the science museum (mixed race family). Easy, chatty, interactive text perfectly suited for describing a first experience and for opening up discussion. Ages 2-5, Card Pages 23pp Quantity:
First Time: Dentist Ref: 1323 How long will we have to wait? Will it hurt? What's the best way of cleaning my teeth? Conversational text provides easy prompts for discussing familiar new experiences. Effortlessly multicultural and inclusive. Age 2-5, Card Pages 23pp Quantity:	First Time: Doctor Ref: 1324 Will I get better soon? Who will I see? Will I have to take medicine? Conversational text provides easy prompts for discussing familiar new experiences. Effortlessly multicultural and inclusive. Age 2-5, Card Pages 23pp Quantity:
First Time: Hospital Ref: 1325 Will I sleep here? What is the food like? When can I go home? Conversational text provides easy prompts for discussing familiar new experiences. Effortlessly multicultural and inclusive. Age 2-5, Card Pages 23pp Quantity:	First Time: Nursery Ref: 9828 How will I know what to do? Will they be friendly? Will I enjoy it? Conversational text provides easy prompts for discussing familiar new experiences. Effortlessly multicultural and inclusive. Age 2-5, Card Pages 23pp Quantity:
First Time: School Ref: 0109 How will I know what to do? Will they be friendly? Will I enjoy it? Conversational text provides easy prompts for discussing familiar new experiences. Effortlessly multicultural and inclusive. Age 2-5, Card Pages 23pp Quantity:	First Time: Vet Ref: 1326 Will my dog get better? Can I stay with my cat? Why do my rabbit's teeth need trimming? Conversational text provides easy prompts for discussing familiar new experiences. Effortlessly multicultural and inclusive. Age 2-5, Card Pages 23pp Quantity:
The 5 Misfits Ref: 15769 Meet The 5 Misfits, a happy band of creatures who live happily together in their snug little home. One of them is punctured, one is folded, one is feeble, one is upside down and one is simply "a bundle of oddities". They are a happy band of creatures, living snugly together in a lopsided house...until they are visited by a stranger, the Perfect One, who is appalled by their good-for-nothingness. Will he mend their ways or will they mend his? ... An incredibly beautiful book in its art work and a extraordinarily wise book in its messages about uniqueness and individuality. 'A quirky take on difference; lots of subliminal messages- positive ones' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, LL reviewer). 'Themes of social acceptability, friendship, contentment and joy which can open up conversations about "misfits" without perpetuating stereotypes of them' (Darren, Teacher & Higher Ed. Tutor, LL reviewer). Age 4-9, Paperback 34pp Quantity:	Fix It! Ref: 11694 A chatty, interactive text and merry illustrations encourage children to engage in their first 'real' tasks. Girl DIY expert included! Age 2-5, Paperback 23pp Quantity:
Freddie and the Fairy by Julia Donaldson illustrated by Karen George Ref: 1401 Picture This Winner 2009 Fantastic disability portrayal. Bessie-Belle offers to grant Freddie's every wish. But he mumbles and she can't hear terribly well...so the wishes end up squiffy! 'Special needs integrated in the most natural way' (EY Advisory Teacher, LL reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 24pp Quantity:	The Frog's Kiss Ref: 17287 SPLOSH! A book of fairy tales falls into a pond. A curious frog takes a peek, wonders, "Who would want to kiss a frog like me?" and dreams of meeting someone who will make his heart skip a beat. A long quest for a princess begins, leading, finally, to a castle with sumptuous gardens and -Hurrah!- a pond, complete with comfy lily pads. Soon, some twirling princesses emerge from the castle and, also, a young prince. Will frog get his kiss and will it make his heartbeat flutter? 'The Frog Prince reimagined for a more inclusive world, where kisses can bring out rainbows' (Fen, Letterbox Library staff). 'A sweet story about finding love wherever it comes from' (Deborah, Lecturer in EY Education, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 26pp Quantity:
The Girls by Lauren Ace illustrated by Jenny Løvlie Ref: 15572 "This is the story of four girls, but it is also the story of womankind. Together #WeAreTheGirls". Meet Sasha, Lottie, Alice and Leela- held together through a friendship so unbreakable it frees them to explore their separate lives. A unique picture book which shows the close friendship between four children and then the maturing of this relationship into adulthood. As the four stride out into new experiences, work, adventures, loves and independent lives, they remain held together through unassailable roots of support and kindness. A tribute to the transformative healing powers of friendship and how true intimacy between friends can be a balm for life. With words and illustrations full of heart and teaming with affirmation, children will love joining the characters on their journey and will feel buoyed by the subtle, but ever-present, message to be who they want to be. (This title also performs 'casual inclusion' at it best- a multicultural group of friends, the illustrations also show Sasha, a young black woman, setting up home with a female partner and mid-way, there is a gorgeous image of the girls leading a Pride parade which bursts with rainbow flags and multicoloured heart balloons). 'Finally, an authentic representation of female friendship which isn't all saccharine and glitter' (Fen, LL staff and reviewer). 'I liked this very much! It's beautifully told-friendships endures through a lifetime.. the gentle respect they have for one another and their allowance of difference shines through the book' (Eileen, Former Primary teacher, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp Quantity:	Grace and Family by Mary Hoffman illustrated by Caroline Birch Ref: 7709 A charming sequel to 'Amazing Grace'. When Grace is invited to Gambia she is worried about how to manage two families, but she learns that families are what you make of them. Age 5-8, 32pp Paperback Quantity:
Grandad's Camper Ref: 16521 Winner of the British Book Awards Nibbie for Children's Illustrated Book of the Year and the Waterstones Children's Book Prize 2023. Every summer, a child visits her seaside Grandad. Holidays with Grandad are always bursting with things to do and witness- but the best thing of all is hearing all about the adventures Grandad shared with Gramps, his partner. Grandad reminisces about Gramp's messiness, clumsiness and also his excellence at so many things. Most of all, he shares stories of their around-the-world adventures in their striped, pink camper van...a van which still lurks in the garage, now looking a little sorry for itself. Can a fix-it granddaughter bring the van and its magic adventures back to life...? A gentle story about loss, a celebration of intergenerational love and in praise of all good road trips. Age 4-7, Hardback 24pp Quantity:	Grandad's Pride Ref: 17255 "Pride is like a giant party where we celebrate the wonderful diversity of our communities and share the message that everyone should be treated with equality and respect" (Grandad). Milly is back visiting her beloved Grandad (last seen in Grandad's Camper) in his seaside village and, together with Gilbert the dog, they're about to lean all about Pride, its history, its campaigning energy and its progressive, uplifting, love-fuelled messages. Milly is all fired up to take the camper van to Pride but Grandad says his partying days are over. Can Milly rally the local community to bring the Pride celebrations to Grandad? How wonderful it is to see such flamboyant panoramas of Pride parades and marches which are also so very reflective of the celebrations we see in real life annually from Cornwall to The Highlands and across the globe. Children will love joining in on this book's journey and spotting all the wonderful details in Woodgate's illustrations (the box labelled 'Gilbert's Toys', the family portraits of Grandad and Gramps, Milly's toy octopus, the chip-foraging seagull...!) 'Finally- images of Pride that I recognise! I loved the double page spread of marches bejewelled with recognisable slogans from across place and time: 'Lesbians & Gays Support the Miners' (London 1980s) 'Act Up' 'Liberation Now' (New York late 80s) 'Repeal Paragraph 175' (Berlin, 1990s) 'Some People Are Gay Get Over It!) (Brighton, 2000s). The evolution of the rainbow flags are spot on and the later Prides, in particular, buzz with LGBTQIA+ diversity and are perfectly inclusive (disabled LGBTQ folk are well represented). The overall message of communities embracing the politics and fever-pitch-elation of Pride feels truly transformative in the world of UK children's literature.' (Fen, Letterbox Library staff). By the winner (with Grandad's Camper) of the British Book Awards Nibbie for Children's Illustrated Book of the Year and the Waterstones Children's Book Prize. Age 4-7, Hardback 27pp Quantity:
Grandma Ref: 2499 Oscar loves spending time with his Grandma but lately she has been getting forgetful and soon she has to go into a care home. A child-friendly exploration of what dementia is. Includes factual information to help children talk about their feelings and find new ways to enjoy the changing relationship. Ages 4-7, Paperback 28pp Quantity:	Granny Came Here on the Empire Windrush by Patrice Lawrence illustrated by Camilla Sucre Ref: 16931 Ava is struggling to think of what to wear to her school costume day. But a visit to Granny means a dive into Granny's special dress up trunk which is brimming with inspiration! Sparkling beads conjure up musician Winifred Atwell; a red scarf suggests Mary Seacole; a wrinkly jacket would work for Rosa Parks. But Ava is much more mesmerised by Granny's cardboard grip case, something she held close to her on her journey over from Trinidad on the Empire Windrush... Indie Book Awards 2022 Shortlist. In many ways, our favourite kind of picture books, where the brevity of the format is nonetheless worked up to communicate large ideas, making them very immediate. In doing so, the creators set store by and make possible young children's skills at processing and pondering those weighty ideas. Gorgeous illustrations; watch out for the beautiful but stark double spread of Granny as a young woman, sat down alone at Piccadilly Circus; overhead hovers the simple caption: "I just wanted to go home". A lightning bolt of legacy and pride. Age 4-8, Paperback 35pp Quantity:
The Great Big Book of Families by Mary Hoffman illustrated by Ros Asquith Ref: 1018 SLA Information Book Award Under 7s 2011 Winner The most joyful and inclusive book of the year! A glorious, multicultural celebration of contemporary family life. Includes lesbian/gay parents, single parents, adopted/fostered children and people from different economic backgrounds. All wrapped up in delightful illustrations and great dollops of humour! Age 4-8, Paperback 32pp *Themes:* Families, LGBTQ+ Quantity:	The Great Big Book of Feelings by Mary Hoffman illustrated by Ros Asquith Ref: 2408 Selected by Booktrust as a Best Book of 2013 The second in the series of these most joyful and inclusive books! Explore lots of different feelings with the children in this book, see if you can find feelings that match your own, or that help you understand how other people are feeling. Feelings explored with the same warmth, wit and sensitivity as in the award-winning 'The Great Big Book of Families'. Age 4-8, Paperback 32pp Quantity:
The Great Googly Moogly Ref: 2422 Nobody has ever been able to catch The Great Googly Moogly - a giant and terrifying fish of legend. But Stella aims to do just that. Armed with fishing gear and differing baits, she sets out every day to realize her dream, whatever the weather. But what will she do if she succeeds? Courtney Dicmas's latest book features a spirited character determined to achieve her goal, but it also reflects our responsibilities to other creatures, and our place in the natural world. Age 4-7, Paperback 27pp Quantity:	Hands Up! by Breanna J. McDaniel illustrated by Shane W. Evans Ref: 16152 A toddler stretches up high, reaches far; she gets involved, speaks up, strikes a pose, flies ahead, wins...all with her hands up! This picture book re-spells affirmation with a capital 'A'. Pulses with self-determination and self-belief. Protest, praise and... basketball are all acts of strong positivity. Purposefully reclaims a charged phrase and implicitly inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement. "A warm and necessary message of empowerment for black children, helping them see that raising their hands is a celebration of their humanity" (Kirkus Review Jan 2019). Age 4-8, Hardback 31pp Quantity:
Happy Birthday Madame Chapeau by Andrea Beaty illustrated by David Roberts Ref: 2548 A quirky treat. Every one of Madame Chapeau's customers is different, so each receives a unique, bespoke hat. But while she gives so much of herself, Madame has a lonely life. And then, one night, she loses her precious birthday bonnet. A line of men queue up to offer her their hats but none will do...until a child brings her a special headpiece, knitted by her own small hands and brightly coloured with love. Like every great story book, this one lends itself to multiple interpretations. It's a story about loss and (self-) isolation, but it also ends up as a story about friendship, belonging and finding your own uniqueness. The illustrations are wonderful- a particular delight is that each hat mirrors and reveals the personality of its owner. The text lilts along with bouncing rhymes and it savours funny nonsense words- "Chez Snooty-Patoot" "Rue Tippytap". This illustrator excels in effortless inclusion- the characters are multicultural; the real star is a small, Black child (with natural hair); some of the couple scenes suggest same-sex partners in amongst the mix and indeed one of the story's joyful messages is that love and companionship takes many forms. 'I LOVE this book...a lovely story about finding what is right for you' (Ruth, Events Programmer, Discover Story Centre, LL reviewer). 'How many ways do I love this? I would have bought this for my child- I had to read it to my (nearly 15-year-old) daughter anyway. Wonderful inclusion!' (Patrice, children's author, LL reviewer) Age 4-7, Hardback 29pp Quantity:	Happy in our Skin by Fran Manushkin illustrated by Lauren Tobia Ref: 14180 "This is how we all begin: small and happy in our skin". A gorgeously inclusive book which gets giddy about skin! A rich text marvels at how skin keeps "your insides in", at how clever it is at growing, at healing and how it responds to the outside environment. Most of all, it celebrates the diversity of our skin and the importance of feeling happy in your skin. This joyful book has so many purposes: it can function very simply as an early science/biology book for the very young or it can be used as a subtle yet brilliant tool in challenging prejudice and in empowering children to feel confident in their skin and in their body. 'Lovely, evocative descriptions of colours- peaches & cream, honey/gold...What's not to like?' (Maggie, former EY Adviser, LL reviewer). 'Very positive about skin colours/purpose of skin. Joyful illustrations' (Rosalind, EY Consultant, LL reviewer). (Portrayals of different ethnicities, faiths and disabilities as well as diverse family structures). Age 3-6, Paperback 24pp Quantity:
Happy to be Me Ref: 2896 "Thank you mouth, you smile and giggle. Thank you toes, you're great to wiggle". Follow a small (and ethnically diverse) group of children joyfully exploring their senses as they take part in a host of activities including playing dress up, cuddling lambs on a farm visit building a robot, toasting marshmallows over a camp fire. The merry band includes a wheelchair user, a child with a hearing aid and a child wearing thick-lensed glasses. Much as this is, quite simply, a very cheerful book about celebrating the senses, the disability depictions seem especially thoughtful and empowering. For e.g.: the child who uses a wheelchair folds his legs into a perfect puppy-needs-a-nap lap; the child with the hearing aid is shown in the line-up of children whispering in to each other's ears. 'Nice rhyming text about senses and body parts. Simple, bold and colourful illustrations. Lovely early years book' (June, Parent, LL reviewer). Age 2-5, Paperback 29pp Quantity:	The Harmonica by Tony Johnston illustrated by Ron Mazellan Ref: 1307 A young boy in a concentration camp keeps hopes alive through the transcendent powers of music. Hauntingly beautiful. 'This book is excellent' (Patricia, 10, LL reviewer). Age 7-10, American Import Paperback 30pp Quantity:
A Hat for Mr Mountain Ref: 17092 Meet Nara, hat maker extraordinaire with flair. Everybody- from dogs to giraffes- is treated to a bespoke design until, that is, Mr Mountain requests his own hat ahead of the winter snowfalls. The challenge is enormous. The giant woolly hat shrinks, the giant leafy hat gets..eaten. Will Mr Mountain ever get his special cap? By a South Korean creator, in the style of a traditional tale, starring an East Asian protagonist. Age 4-7, Paperback 32pp Quantity:	Have You Seen Elephant? Ref: 2730 A very large, very fun-spirited elephant challenges a small child to a game of hide and seek. And, despite the elephant's quite terrible disguises- on full show with just its head in a lampshade, delicately clutching a skinny tree trunk in front of it- the child simply fails to spot it. Which leads, inevitably, to a tortoise challenging the same child to a game of Tag...A book which really understands the art of being a picture book with the barest of texts, decorative gatefolds and warm, smudgy illustrations in a gorgeous fuzzy summer palette, stuffed with character and great humour. A picture book lover's dream. 'Ahhh, how funny is this?! Children will love it. Made me smile all the way through' (Meryl, Early Years Consultant, LL reviewer). 'So funny- laughed out loud!' (Rosalind, Workforce Dev. Commissioning Officer, LL reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 30pp Quantity:
The Heart and the Bottle (PB) Ref: 12006 Booktrust Best New Illustrators Award 2008 A bereaved little girl decides to put her heart away in a safe place. But will she know how to get it back? The depths of love and loss are treated with an extraordinary lightness of touch. Age 5-adult, Paperback 31pp Quantity:	Heather Has Two Mummies by Lesléa Newman illustrated by Laura Cornell Ref: 2477 A new edition of a classic. Brought bang up to date by Walker Books through a new illustrator, the publisher has also created an Anglicised edition (no more 'mommies'!) This new edition has beautifully vibrant, yet softly fuzzy illustrations which make each spread somehow...huggable! So, time to meet Heather again and her two special mummies, Mama Jane and Mama Kate and Gingernut the cat and Midnight the dog. Follow Heather as she goes about the tricky business of starting school and the less tricky business of nap time, circle time and everyone-draw-a-picture-of-their-family time. Everything about this book is simply delightful. Includes a 'secondary' representation of gay dads and there are also some subtle, lovely little gender touches along the way too (Heather's firefighter costume, Mama Jane's carpentry, the gender-neutral play at school etc.) 'Fantastic! Definite must-have! Positive portrayal, inclusive, bright and affirming' (Children's Centre Coordinator, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 28pp Quantity:
Hello Hello Ref: 2903 A striking environmental tale which is also a jubilant celebration of difference. A range of black and white and then gorgeously garishly-coloured and then stripy and then spotted creatures make their way across glossy double page spreads, mirroring and taking on each other's characteristics and, always, greeting each other with a friendly "hello!" Culminates in the celebratory refrain, "A world to see / A world to know / Where to begin? / Hello Hello". A beautifully executed picture book with rhyming text and ninety-two (yes, 92!) smiling, beaming creatures who, we find out right at the very end, are all endangered: Brazilian porcupines, elephant seals, veiled chameleons, squat lobsters... Semi-cartoon-like, collage illustrations. Take the time to compare the silhouetted front end with the coloured-in back end pages. 'Really interesting. Really different. Really thought provoking. Really good! A sensitive way to discuss our similarities and our differences with children' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, LL reviewer). 'It has an environmental message but it also has a more encompassing theme of joy in difference' (Kerry, LL staff and reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 38pp Quantity:	Here I Am by Patti Kim illustrated by Sonia Sánchez Ref: 2519 We first glimpsed this as a U.S. edition and hoped and hoped for a U.K. one. We didn't have to wait too long. A wordless picture book shows a child and his family migrating to a new, unspecified country. Stunning artwork takes us all on a journey from a confusing unfamiliar landscape to somewhere which is starting to feel a lot like home. Perfect visual literacy for children' whose first language isn't English- and for reluctant readers. 'A clever idea to tell the story in pictures, thus embracing all languages or those not yet learnt!' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, LL reviewer). Written by a Korean immigrant to the USA. Age 6-9, Paperback 39pp Quantity:
Here is the World: A Book of Jewish Holidays by Lesléa Newman illustrated by Susan Gal Ref: 17021 Absolutely spilling over with Jewish festivals and ceremonies (eleven in total!), from a Naming Ceremony to Shavuot. Follow a family (and the seasons) as they feast on Rosh Hashanah apples and honey, build a sukkah of figs and twigs for Sukkot, shake goggers for Purim, hand out Haggadahs for Passover. Strong rhymes and soft illustrations full of pumpkin and burnt orange colours. Comes with a thorough description of Jewish customs and holidays at the back as well as related crafts and recipes: make a challah cover! And noodle kugel! Both author and illustrator are past recipients of National Jewish Book Awards. Age 3-6, Paperback 44pp Quantity:	Hey You! by Dapo Adeola (and others) illustrated by various Ref: 16453 Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2022 "Hey you. Welcome to the world". Feel affirmed, feel bold, feel wonderful as this author and multiple illustrators accompany you on your journey through the world...from babe in arms to questioning teenager to empowered grownup. Feel yourself held and gently guided as you navigate choices, resist, persist and thrive. A tribute to growing up Black. Age 4-8, Paperback 42pp Click here to download reading and discussion guide. Quantity:
Hide and Seek Ref: 17043 Warm fuzzy pictures imagine a bright, spring pastoral setting. The stage is set for ... a fearless game of hide-and-seek! Told through the voice of an adventurous girl, dressed up in orange wellies and tiger striped sweater, as she seeks out a grizzly brown bear, a hare, a racoon, while all the time being stalked by a silvery wolf. Impossible for any reader/listener to resist crying out, "It's behind you!" 'Who's hiding from who? So much going on in the illustrations. Great to see a fearless girl having fun outside' (Rosalind, Project Dev. Mgr., PACEY, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Fabulous illustrations, lots of movement. Good friendships and fun!' (Maggie, EY Adviser, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 30pp Click here to download reading and discussion guide. Quantity:	How to Find Gold Ref: 2656 A small child and her crocodile friend think up gold-finding strategies, draw a map, elaborate with complicated sketches encompassing ship-sinking and underwater monsters- and then...finally...set out on an adventure to find gold. A few page spreads of wordless underwater magic later, a great, tumbling, treasure trove of gold is discovered. The adventurers carefully mark the spot on a new, very good, map and then leave the gold well alone. The end. Zany, fantastically strange and with a fresh, direct, dialogue which perfectly captures exactly how children would speak to their imaginary crocodiles. 'Positive portrayal of a gutsy, empowered, wee girl' (Kate, Children's Centre Coordinator, LL reviewer). 'I liked this! A black girl doing something difficult and dangerous is too rare in children's literature…the dialogue is unusual with echoes of The Little Prince' (Darren, Teacher & Higher Ed. Tutor, LL reviewer). But a word of caution from our youngest, 8-year-old reviewer, Vuso, who complained: 'I did not like the book because it doesn't teach you to find gold.' Maybe he was just looking in all of the wrong places... Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp Quantity:
How to Heal a Broken Wing Ref: 881 Kate Greenaway Medal & English Assoc. Shortlists 2009 Nobody saw the pigeon fall to the ground. Except a kind and gentle little boy. Sparse text and fantastically eloquent illustrations. 'Wow! So much you could do with this book in both KS1 & 2' (Primary Strategy Consultant, LL reviewer). Age 3-8, Paperback 36pp Quantity:	I Am Billie Jean King by Brad Meltzer illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos Ref: 2885 From ranking number one in women's tennis to winning three Gland Slams in the same year to winning the infamous Battle of the Sexes match (1973 against Bobby Riggs) to receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom (for being one of the first openly lesbian sports figures), BJK has been an inspiration at every turn in her life. A thoroughly principled advocate for justice and equality, BJK decided from a young age that the easiest way for her to lobby for fairness would be to first become the best in her game of tennis. This brilliantly accessible and fun biography speeds through her life from a little girl playing basket ball to the present day. Part of a bestselling well-researched New York Times biography series- and, finally, biographies of famous LGBT role models are honest about their subjects' sexuality. 'This book strikes just the right note. It gives a clear, measured account of a remarkable woman who was not only at the top of her profession as a tennis player but who also took the time and energy to change the status quo- and make men and women athletes be treated equally' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, LL reviewer). Age 6-9 American Import Hardback 38pp Quantity:
I Am Nefertiti by Annemarie Anang illustrated by Natelle Quek Ref: 17163 Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2023 Nefertiti is joining a new band, drumsticks in hand. Spotting her nervousness, Dad waves her off with his usual affirming refrain, "You are Nefertiti!", which always makes her feel a good 10 feet tall. So, when the music teacher struggles to pronounce her name and then shortens it to 'Nef' for her own convenience, Nefertiti begins to ...shrink...becoming smaller with every 'Nef'! Finally, when she is bug-sized, she reaches up to whisper into Priya's ear. Can her classmates explain to the music teacher where the cure to Nefertiti's shrinking condition lies? A clever story abut micro aggressions told through a very simple and effective metaphor. Age 4-7, Paperback 28pp Click here to download reading and discussion guide. Quantity:	Ice in the Jungle Ref: 2542 When Ice's mum tells her they will have to move because she has an exciting new job in an exciting new country, Ice isn't so sure.... The journey is long, the new country is far too hot, the new school is full of creatures who don't look like her and don't understand her- and they prefer bananas to fish! Too weird! Could a 'North Pole Party' be just the welcome that Ice needs? A very clever, deceptively simple, picture book which introduces themes of transition and migration while ever so gently subverting a few assumptions about new arrivals! 'Really nice way to explore how we feel in different/new situations for children' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, LL reviewer). 'Can use this book to explore lots of different situations for children, including migration and refugees' (Kerry, LL staff). Age 3-6 Paperback 27pp Quantity:
If All the World Were... by Joseph Coelho illustrated by Allison Colpoys Ref: 2847 A gentle exploration of bereavement through lilting, poetic text and joyful, sweeping brushstrokes of oranges, pinks, reds and yellows. A child takes her granddad's giant hand and journeys through the seasons with him exploring the first signs of spring, discovering the astrological properties of a racing track (!), capturing dreams with a rainbow pencil in a book of crinkly leaves, storytelling with snake puppet socks. When her beloved grandpa dies, she collects scattered memories from his room and then starts to write them down in the notebook he left for her, made of spring-petal paper and Indian string. A very moving story- the sadness made somehow bearable by the exquisite relationship between child and grandparents and the narrative faith in memories which gradually heal like balm. (Mixed- Asian/Black- Race Family.) Age 4-8 Paperback 28pp Quantity:	I Like Bees, I Don't Like Honey! by Sam Bishop illustrated by Fiona Lumbers Ref: 16293 "Everyone is different! This much is true. What you like, and what you don't, it's really up to you!" A bouncy, interactive, rhyming picture book shows child after child expressing their likes and dislikes- one likes friends but not being tickled; one likes chasing balloons and doesn't like people going away; another likes scooters but not spitting llamas. In amongst some comic and light likes/dislikes are some more serious ones which, together, combine in a truly empowering book through which children are encouraged to express their wants, their needs- and to stay safe. 'Love this. A lovely way for young children to learn about respecting each other's differences' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, LL reviewer). 'Every child can relate to one of the bubble comments' (Nicole, young LL reviewer). (Some disability images included). Author royalties go to the NSPCC. Age 3-6, Paperback 30pp Quantity:
In Her Hands by Alan Schroeder illustrated by JaeMe Bereal Ref: 1050 The early career of a pioneering sculptor and a major figure of the Harlem Renaissance. A compelling portrait of a young woman's determination to carve out her own special place in art history. Age 7-11, American Import Hardback 38pp Quantity:	In My Mosque by M. O. Yuksel illustrated by Hatem Aly Ref: 17018 "In my mosque, we pray for peace, love and joy,,, just like my friends in churches, temples and synagogues". From lining up shoes in a row to handing out tasbihs to greeting the angels on our shoulders… all the peace, serenity and joy of a visit to the mosque. Easy, poetic text and gorgeous illustrations show a fulsomely diverse and global Muslim community as different children take turns to introduce their own unique mosque, their different services and communities. A generous-hearted book which ends with a warm welcome to the reader. Includes a lovely little glossary at the back. 'Oh wow! I loved this book! The illustrations were stunning and I particularly liked the diverse range of children, young people and their families portrayed. Beautiful to read aloud too!' (Hannah, Social Worker, Letterbox Library reviewer) Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp Quantity:
Is It A Mermaid? by Candy Gourlay illustrated by Francesca Chessa Ref: 15887 Two children on the beach spot a Dugong -or, rather, a Sea Cow- popping its large grey snout out of the sea. But this Dugong insists she is a she, not an it. And, she declares, with both flippers on her hips, she is a gorgeous mermaid, not a Dugong. Bel is happy to go along with the Dugong's self-identity as she trills and bounces in a mermaid-ish way. But Benji is very unsure about it all, protesting, "You are a Dugong!!!" Will he ever be persuaded?... Fresh, charming, playful and utterly delightful. Luminescent blues and greens show the sweeps of the ocean interrupted by bright flashes of iridescent sea life down below. As day turns to night, the pages become soaked in rusty orange and then inky purples. The text skips along lightly, perfectly capturing children's clear and animated dialogue. And the humour is completely infectious. Who knew that a YA author could jump so effortlessly into such a young age range- more, please, Candy! [ Set in the Phillipines. Nice little backnote on the endangered Dugong. Yes, Dugongs are real]. Age 3-6, Paperback 24pp Quantity:	The Island Ref: 756 'Wow! What a powerful book! So much you can take from this- in such a simple format.' (Primary Strategy Consultant, LL reviewer). A stark picture book which tackles huge themes- refugees, xenophobia, racism and human rights. A timeless fable. International award-winner. Age 7 to adult, Hardback 30pp Quantity:
Is That Your Mama? by Patrice Lawrence illustrated by Diane Ewen Ref: 17250 Josie's family all look different. Which is okay with her. If they're at home. But outside of her home, she and her family get asked all sorts of questions. Nosy questions. Not minding-their-own-business questions. Just darn rude questions. "Is that your sister?" "Is that your child?" "Is that your mama?" Just when Josie reaches her Most Fed Up of fed ups, her family gather together with a plan which will empower Josie to put her starriest self forward and take full control of the situation. A book which bounces with heart. The combination of Patrice Lawrence's deftly chosen words and Diane Ewen's highly expressive illustrations are a wonderful picture book match. Superb for any family member who has had their heritage or family origins -rudely, impertinently- questioned. The first of its kind in UK Children's book publishing, this will feel so important to so very many families. Above all else, this book respects children's own agency and empowers them to tap in to that- to resist, with or without words. "Where do I start with this book? Well, it's not fiction first of all. This experience is all too real for many young children today. I love the examples (of questions) offered -they're illustrated so well!- and Josie's imaginings of how to alter this ..I love Josie's own conclusion. Simple, clear and thoughtful, I just love this book and children will too!" (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, Letterbox Library reviewer) Age 4-7, Paperback 27pp Quantity:	Jack's Worry Ref: 2761 Jack adores his trumpet but, as concert day looms, he develops a Worry, a great big grey splodge of a worry which sits on the end of his bed from the moment he wakes up and then trails him around for the rest of the day, getting ever larger and ever splodgier. Might talking to Mum shrink the Worry back down? A simple but effective tale about articulating your fears. Age 4-7, Hardback 30pp Quantity:
Jamie Ref: 2670 Jamie is super at fixing things, something her two older, meaner brothers are happy to exploit. And while they have their own personal fairy godmother to see to their every whim, Jamie is all alone...except for the odd friendly house mouse. When the local princess invites everyone to the Royal Ball, the brothers are quite clear that Jamie has no business going. But Jamie knows how to convert a pumpkin...and she knows how to stitch together a dj too. When she completes her disguise with a short, trendy haircut, Jamie looks in a mirror and suddenly feels...just right! Jamie has become Jamie and he's finally at one with himself. Off to the ball!...where he soon catches the eye of the princess. A very, very clever, smart and thoughtful book with a positive transgender protagonist which is pitched perfectly to young readers. 'There certainly aren't many books for younger children about transgender identities and this one is told very gently and sensitively' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Manager). ''Liked this reworking of Cinderella and a great story' (Deb, EY Lecturer). 'There is real wit and joy to the storytelling. I like the way the gradual revealing of Jamie's identity is embedded in the main narrative, the subtle shift form 'she' to 'he'. It's very clear...but...there is a lot to think about apart from 'just' Jamie's identity' (Mark Jennett, Equalities Trainer). (All Letterbox Library reviewers). Age 5-8, Paperback 34pp Please click here for further resources from Pop N Olly Quantity:	The Jar of Happiness Ref: 2543 A lovely feelings book in which a child invents a happiness which tastes of sunshine and smells of warm biscuits; she puts it all in a jar and carries it everywhere, sharing it with people along the way. But then one day her jar is no longer there...can her friends help her rediscover some happiness? 'Liked this. Gentle illustrations and a story of kindness and a girl as a budding scientific inventor of happiness! Yes!' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, LL reviewer). Age 3-6 Paperback 27pp Quantity:
Journey Ref: 2521 A bored child in a sepia world, picks up her red crayon, draws a door and takes herself out to a forest world of Chinese lanterns and fairy lights to a kingdom of turrets and golden domes to strange flying machines in a deep blue sky to a re-entry into her world and... to a brand new friend! A rich, yet entirely wordless, narrative; a song to imaginative play, outdoor adventures, intrepid girls, friendships and extraordinary journeys. 'A wonderful picture book. The possibilities for use in literacy are endless. Beautifully illustrated and lovely to see a lead female character' (Sonia, Deputy Primary Head, LL reviewer). 'A stunning book- would provide wonderful language/story ideas for young children. So much to explore in this heart-warming book' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion manager, LL reviewer). Age 4-9, Paperback 34pp Quantity:	The Journey Ref: 2603 A nameless country. A war which stretches like a grasping hand across the land. A parent and her two children separated from their father. A journey to a strange place with strange cities and creatures and landscapes. A long and painful journey. Borders to climb. Seas to cross. Angry guards to evade. A journey that doesn't ever end- even with this book. Evocative, devastatingly simple, text- "The further we go...the more we leave behind"- is extended by illustrations which layer and build the story with other narratives. Based on the author's interviews with refugees and migrants from many different countries, woven here into one multifaceted, unique, hopeful quest for freedom and safety. Truly excellent. Age 7-11, Hardback 41pp Quantity:
The Journey Home Ref: 2759 Winner Sendak Fellowship By the UK's first ever recipient of the Sendak Fellowship. A mournful looking polar bear looks out onto his seascape and wonders where all of his ice has gone. He decides to embark on an ice hunt, setting off in a tiny boat. En route, he picks up other animals whose natural habitats are under threat: a panda, an orang-utan and an elephant...until, finally, they land on an island inhabited by a Dodo. A wonderfully illustrated story about the destruction to our environment, forced migrations and hope for a much kinder future. 'A book to prick our collective conscience' (Eileen, Former Teacher, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp Quantity:	Joy to the World!: Christmas Around the Globe by Kate DePalma illustrated by Sophie Fatus Ref: 16483 A truly festive revelation! Who knew Christmas took so many different forms across the globe: making kuswar treats in Goa, India; fasting and then Fattah-feasting in Egypt; spreading straw indoors in Serbia; sharing books through a huge Christmas Book Flood in Iceland. Notes on each festival/custom and gold-spotted/framed illustrations give this a beautiful finish. (Character cast includes several wheelchair users). Age 3-7, Hardback 38pp Quantity:
Julian at the Wedding (PB) Ref: 16830 Julian is all ready for the wedding, decked in the finery of his purple, waist-tapered, suit. There he meets the irrepressible Marigold whose fondness for rolling about in the mud is encumbered by her flouncy peachy dress. But Julian has a solution...Minimal words and the most magical of illustrations infuse this celebration of a wedding between two (Black) brides, truly "a party of love." As ever, Love also confounds all the stereotypes of 'older' people by having grandmothers who have no time for 'conventions', who look on with an all-embracing, loving wisdom- and who belly-laugh and dance bare-footed in the grass. Sometimes a book comes along -such as Julian Is A Mermaid- which is so beautiful the weight of expectation must lie heavily with the creator; can they equal that debut or even up that? Well, here's the proof. Visual storytelling at its most blissful. 'Oh joy, oh rapture, the best character in picture books for YEARS is back and even more fabulous. Everything about this is pitch perfect...As with the book's predecessor, imagination, kindness and self-determination are the order of the day' (Mark, Equalities Trainer/Consultant, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 34pp Quantity:	Julian Is a Mermaid Ref: 2836 A young boy is obsessed by mermaids. One day, on the train with Nana, he is enthralled when they are joined by a trio of women dressed as exotic sea creatures, complete with swishy tails and flicky hair. Back at Nana's, Julian starts to use the things around him to transform himself, bit by bit, into the most glorious and glamorous of mermaids. But it is Nana who provides the final finishing touch. A break out hit of a picture book, famously endorsed by RuPaul on Twitter. A celebration of individuality, creativity, freedom of expression and intergenerational love and empathy. Wonderful artwork which soaks the pages in colour and warmth. 'Love, love, love this! Fab illustrations and a simple message effectively put over. Nice to see an older woman so open to difference and enabling of the boy. It's so great!' (Deborah, Letterbox Library reviewer, author of Gender Diversity and Inclusion in Early Years Education). Age 3-6 Paperback 32pp Quantity:
King and King Ref: 9205 A merry and modern tale of living happily ever after. The queen is desperate for her son to marry. But what's a prince to do when princesses just don't turn his head? He could just marry a prince! Dazzlingly illustrated and overflowing with child appeal. Age 4-7, Hardback 28pp *Themes:* LGBTQ+, Families Quantity:	King of the Sky by Nicola Davies illustrated by Laura Carlin Ref: 2760 "The streets smelled of mutton soup and coal dust and no one spoke my language. All of it told me, 'This is not where you belong'". A young boy feels isolated and excluded in a small Welsh town. But there is one thing which brings him the warmth of his old home- Mr Evans' homing pigeons, who strut as proudly as the ones in St Peters Square, Rome. And so, a lovely intergenerational relationship springs up between a young boy and elderly man, leading, finally, to a new understanding of 'home'. 'Beautiful pictures, good book' (Isak, aged 7, LL reviewer). A touching story of belonging and new beginnings. Endorsed by Amnesty International UK. Age 4-9, Paperback 52pp Quantity:
The King Who Banned the Dark Ref: 15716 Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2019 A king, troubled by a lifelong fear of the dark decides to, quite simply, ban it. To get the people on side, there will need first to be some scaremongering and rumour-spreading, so much so that the citizens come up with the idea themselves to enforce a darkness ban. With a large artificial sun mounted in the sky and a troop of officious Light Inspectors in place, how will the town survive under an all-light environment? "A witty picture-book with a lot of contemporary relevance, which skewers government propaganda and the misuse of power" (Catherine Barter, reviewing for the Little Rebels Award website). Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp Quantity:	Knick Knack Paddy Whack (+ Music/Animation CD) sung by Steve Songs illustrated by Christine Engel Ref: 0011 A bright, multicultural version of a classic, now with video animation! 'A lovely book...The children have moved, clapped, tapped and played instruments along with the CD' (Preschool Staff, LL reviewer). Age 2-5, Paperback + CD 22pp Quantity:
Kunkush: The True Story of a Refugee Cat by Marne Ventura illustrated by Beidi Guo Ref: 15757 The true story of an Iraqi family who flee Iraq to Greece with their three-year-old Turkish Van cat, Kunkush. On their arrival in Lesvos, Kunkush is lost and joins the feral street cats, but is then taken in by two young women who go on to launch a social media campaign designed to reunite him with his family. A very original approach to discussing the devastating impact of war through a real life account, complete with additional resources (and weblinks), a glossary and discussion points. 'It tells a difficult, complex story and shows that good can be stronger than anything else. Children will love it' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, LL reviewer). 'Heart-warming and distinctive perspective on the refugee experience' (Farrah, CLPE Learning Programme Leader, LL reviewer). An illustrated picture book for older readers. Age 7-12, Paperback 29pp Quantity:	La La La: A Story of Hope by Kate DiCamillo illustrated by Jamie Kim Ref: 16126 A small, lonely child with a single note to share: "La"...A note which cannot find an echo anywhere. Not in the sunbeams, nor the leaves, nor the grasses, nor the pond. But then finally...there is a reply of "Las"! A gorgeous, single word, picture book about finding your song, and staying resilient, energetic and optimistic in that quest. Open to multiple readings and interpretations. 'Like the best picture books, this would work with a wide age range and could be constantly revisited and mined as the basis for many a classroom discussion or as a simple bedtime comforter.. .It is a terrific starting point for discussions about loneliness, difference, empathy, feeling excluded etc.' (Mark Jennett, Equalities Trainer/Consultant, LL reviewer). Beautiful format: a square shape; mixed-media illustrations; simple crossover hues of autumnal oranges/greens with a luxuriously deep purple. Easily attractive enough to deserve the longer-than-usual number of pages for a picture books. East Asian protagonist. Age 1-6, Hardback 68pp Quantity:
Last Stop on Market Street by Matt De La Peña illustrated by Christian Robinson Ref: 2631 Winner 2016 Newbery Medal Every Sunday, come rain or shine, CJ and his Nana take the bus ride across town to the last stop on Market Street and, from there, to the soup kitchen. This Sunday, CJ simply isn't in the mood. But Nana turns the bus journey into nothing short of miraculous, answering all of CJ's questions with insight and wisdom which reveal the magic of the everyday and the wonders of humanity: "Nana, how come we don't got a car?" "We got a bus that draws fire." "How come it's always so dirty over here?" "Sometimes, when you're surrounded by dirt, CJ, you're a better witness for what's beautiful." A truly diverse mix of characters within a narrative which touches cleverly on class, economics and community cohesion with the gentlest of narratives. Published to huge acclaim, this book has garnered too many awards to list here! (Great disability images, too!) Age 4-8, Paperback 26pp Quantity:	Let's Go to the Seaside! by Caryl Hart illustrated by Lauren Tobia Ref: 2867 Bee and Billy get kitted out in their stripy onesies and sun protection for a day on the beach. Watch them jump over foamy sploshy waves, enjoy a crunchy picnic and make shell-decorated sandcastles- leaving plenty of time for an ice cream too, of course. Chatty, toddler-friendly dialogue, evocative playful language and almost-tactile illustrations which make you want to dip your toes. One in a great new first experiences series from Walker Books. 'A day out together with lots of fun playing together, sharing and caring' (Rosalind, Workforce Dev. Officer, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Lots of fun at the seaside- can feel the movement of the sea in the illustrations' (Maggie, EY Advisory teacher, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 1-3, Paperback/Card Pages 26pp Quantity:
Lion, King and Coin by Jeong-hee Nam illustrated by Lucia Sforza Ref: 16648 A story, interspersed with facts, about the origins of the first coin in Lydia, modern day Turkey. Shows the shift from an agricultural barter economy -trading with all manner of goods from beads to whales' teeth!- to a currency economy with the introduction of electrum coins. Told in the voice of (fictional!) Laos whose family work at a blacksmith's forge. Original and...inventive. Age 4-7, Paperback 33pp Quantity:	The Little Island by Smriti Prasadam-Halls illustrated by Robert Starling Ref: 16033 Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2020 There was once a farm where all the animals lived and worked in a mutually supportive democracy. But, one day, the geese (and ducks) decide that they simply do not have enough room for the other animals. Surely, they muse, life was pleasanter and greener and rosier before their patch got quite so... busy? And so the ducks, under the instructions of the geese, bring down the footbridge which links their island to the mainland. But, as time passes and labour is meager and 'community' even thinner, their lives become all the poorer and their patch of land becomes vulnerable and exposed. Can the bridge be built back up? A modern parable fusing Animal Far with Brexit! Both author and illustrator have described this book as one they hoped would counter the messages of hatred so prevalent post-Referendum. Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp Click here to access the teaching sequence of activities for this book from Andersen Press, designed in partnership with CLPE. Quantity:
Little Mouse and the Red Wall Ref: 2892 The Big Red Wall had always been there. No one knew where it started. Nor where it ended. And, mostly, nobody cared. Except Little Mouse who started to ask questions of the other animals: why was the wall built?; what is behind it? Will Little Mouse ever discover the world beyond? With discussion rife about freedom of movement, erecting walls and fractured communities, this book feels rich with philosophical potential; the author's own dedication reads, "To the fearless- and a world without walls". Deceptive in its simplicity, with densely textured illustrations from a fine artist who blends handmade and digital techniques. 'Wonderful book! You can read this on lots of levels but it is primarily about keeping an open mind. It challenges the idea of barriers, both physical and mental' (Kerry, LL staff and reviewer). 'Great story. Introduces curiosity and adventure to a child's mind' (Anne Marie, EY Safeguarding Consultant, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp Quantity:	Little Red Ref: 2718 Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2017 A bold, stark and subversive retelling of Red Riding Hood. Little Red is hooded and booted, alert and on guard, strategic and cunning, brutal when needed and… utterly fearless. Includes a perfect refrain for children to join in with: "Which might have scared some little girls. But not this little girl." A simple palette of monochrome, cut across by dashing red, this is by a very talented new artist who won the 2015 Macmillan Prize for Illustration. 'Brilliant, modern day, twist to a classic fairy tale. Everything about this book is strong- a fearsome hero for all children who hear this tale' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, LL reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 24pp Quantity:
Little Red Riding Hood and the Dragon by Ying Chang Compestine illustrated by Joy Ang Ref: 17111 "By now, you have probably heard the old folk tale about a girl in a red cape. She and her grandmother were gobbled up by a wolf and were rescued by a woodsman. The truth is that the tale took place in China, there wasn't a woodsman and I, the gentle wolf, certainly was not the one who ate them. Here is the real story..." And so, in a village close to the Great Wall, we meet kung fu expert, Little Red, whose journey to see her Nainai (rice cake and herbal soup in hand) is rudely interrupted by ... a fearsome, yellow, whiskered dragon! Will this tale turn out any differently? And will we catch sight of a wolf at all? By an American-Chinese author and East-Asian-Canadian artist. Motifs from Chinese culture and mythology are woven through with a helpful Author's Note to pull these all together (including an itemised list of things found in dragon's belly...) Age 4-7, Hardback 40pp Quantity:	Lollipop and Grandpa and the Wobbly Tooth by Penelope Harper illustrated by Cate James Ref: 15332 Lollipop is very proud of her gleaming, shiny teeth. And then, one day she wakes up to a wobbly, bibbly-bobbly tooth. Grandpa has all sorts of plans for its removal- a pulling tug-of-war team, a tapping woodpecker, a sucking elephant trunk...but it is a shiny red apple which finally does the trick, followed by a quick trip to the dentist to check everything is as it should be. Age 4-7 Paperback 29pp. Quantity:
Look Up! by Nathan Bryon illustrated by Dapo Adeola Ref: 16006 "All I know is that one day I'm going to be the greatest astronaut, star-catcher, space traveller who has ever lived." Meet Rocket- a budding astronaut who is getting all of her prep in right now: catching exotic species, spaceship-building, reading up on the dustiness of meteors, victory dancing.... In a world where everyone is looking down- at their phones, their newspapers, the floor- Rocket is pitched firmly upwards. Can she get everyone to join her in looking up for the amazing Phoenix Meteor Shower? Will brother Jamal finally put his phone away? Everything about this picture book soars: the ambition of its sparky protagonist, the nod to superstar Mae Jemison, the individuals who come together in a shared moment of outer-worldy wonder. The child-friendly illustrations resemble a near-edible spread of treats: Mum's daisy-patterned leggings, Rocket's gleaming orange astrosuit matched only by the kitten's, the child in pink tutu and lurid spotted green wellies, the dancing supermarket fruit. As for the hairstyles...! Mum has really excelled herself with Rocket's expert cornrow-puff combo. On every level this is a winner. (nb: single parent household) Paperback 29pp, Age 4-7 Quantity:	The Lost Property Office Ref: 2875 A child goes on the train to Grandpa's house. There is sooo much to see- and, in the middle of all those distractions, Teddy gets lost on the train! That night, at Grandpa's, she dreams of the most magical place- an entire room of lost things. Which sparks an idea... A warm story about a calamity familiar to so many children- the loss of a favourite toy. The illustrations are fantastic (as you would expect from a Tate publication); every surface is strewn with the multiple things people discard, lose and leave behind. Children will enjoy decoding these additional visual layers of narrative. Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp Quantity:
The Lost Stars Ref: 1410 Bold and expressive illustrations illuminate this wonderfully imaginative story about the endangered magic of the night sky. Brilliant! Age 4-8, Paperback 27pp Quantity:	The Long Silk Strand by Laura E. Williams illustrated by Grayce Bochak Ref: 9856 A moving, but ultimately uplifting, tale of inter-generational love and the sadness of losing a beloved grandparent. Very special. Age 7-9, American Import Paperback 28pp Quantity:
Love Your Body by Jessica Sanders illustrated by Carol Rossetti Ref: 16205 "Every body is different and every body is a good body"; "Your body is an incredible instrument for you to use...but you are also so much more than your body". Just some of the messages in this bright, dazzling and generous body-positive book aimed at anyone who identifies as a girl. Truly, for us, one of the most exciting books of 2020. A book which encourages girls (in particular) to embrace their bodies through self-care and self-love whilst also empowering them to appreciate themselves beyond their bodies. A smart and brilliant challenge to the objectification of female bodies and to negative body image everywhere. The illustrations are wonderful showing every conceivable body shape, size and type and a range of identities (hijabi girls, rainbow girls, disabled young women included). 'A really empowering and positive approach. A much needed reality check for the young girls of today. I hope this message is powerful enough to combat the social media messages' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, LL reviewer). For 8+ readers but also visually legible to younger readers with an adult sat alongside them. Age 8-12, Hardback 36pp Quantity:	Lubna and Pebble by Wendy Meddour illustrated by Daniel Egnéus Ref: 16121 Lubna leaves her old world and awakes to find herself in a World of Tents. Luckily she has Pebble, clutched snugly in her hand. Pebble listens and smiles back at her. When it gets cold, Daddy makes sure Pebble is well protected in a shoebox. And then, one day, along comes another child, Amir. A child in need of a friend and, quite possibly, also, a Pebble. A sensitive, astute and original narrative about a child's arrival and survival in a refugee camp. Brilliantly captures a child's point of view on a potentially traumatic environment. We witness Lubna 'managing' her surroundings and nurturing herself through a controlled, episodic, introspection, a self-hug which she then slowly moves out of to offer comfort and friendship to a peer. Age 4-7, Paperback 27pp Quantity:
Lulu's First Day by Anna McQuinn illustrated by Rosalind Beardshaw Ref: 15780 Lulu has practised story time; she has her water bottle; she has laid her clothes out neatly... all ready for the big day. Unusually for starting school books, this one stars a child who is full of excitement about her first day, showing a level of confidence which will boost child readers about to make their transition to Big School. Wonderful. Age 3-6, Hardback 24pp Quantity:	Lulu Loves Flowers by Anna McQuinn illustrated by Rosalind Beardshaw Ref: 2524 "Lulu, Lulu, extraordinary / How does your garden grow?" Lulu never fails to delight, enchant and tickle our Letterbox Library reviewers. Here, inspired by Mary Mary, Lulu decides she wants her own flower garden. As ever, everything she needs to know can be found in a book- from planting the flower seeds to nurturing them, to making the necessary accompanying cupcakes for the flower garden party she holds! 'Lovely colourful illustrations telling the story of Lulu and her garden' (Carey, Childminder, LL reviewer).'Engaging and positive characters...Great storyline linking to outdoor play, poems & rhymes & reading, healthy eating, creativity and sharing. I like the links to the website for extension resources. Delightful illustrations and a proper story!' (Kate, Children's Centre Coordinator, LL reviewer). Age 3-6 Paperback 24pp Quantity:
Lulu Loves the Library (+ Multi-Language CD) by Anna McQuinn illustrated by Rosalind Beardshaw Ref: 8905 'I love this book and I want all library staff to have one!!' (Early Years Librarian). We couldn't agree more. Follow Lulu on her special weekly library trip. A bright narrative and sumptuous illustrations make this a real joy for book lovers everywhere. Now with a unique story CD read by the author's library group- in 19 different languages! Gorgeous. Age 2-5 Hardback, 22pp Quantity:	Lulu Loves the Library (QR Code) by Anna McQuinn illustrated by Rosalind Beardshaw Ref: 755 Follow Lulu on her special weekly library trip with Mummy. After a little singing and a lot of choosing, will Lulu find the perfect bedtime story? 'I love this book and I want all library staff to have one!!' (Early Years Librarian). Age 2-5, Paperback + QR Code, 22pp Quantity:
Lulu Loves Stories (+ Multi-Language CD) by Anna McQuinn illustrated by Rosalind Beardshaw Ref: 1318 The irrepressible Lulu returns in another book-loving story, superbly illustrated by the superb Beardshaw. There is plenty here- Dad as primary carer and a girl who can switch between fairy and DIY expert effortlessly! Age 2-5, Paperback + CD 21pp Quantity:	Lulu's Sleepover by Anna McQuinn illustrated by Rosalind Beardshaw Ref: 16502 The exuberant, tripping-over-herself-with-fun, Lulu is back. And, tonight marks her very first sleepover! She is off to stay with cousin Hani, Auntie Zari and Auntie Jina. But first, she needs to pack an excessive amount of outfits (from kanga dress to dungarees) and, of course, her favourit-est books. Once Daddy has dropped her off and there have been lots of goodbye kisses, playtime begins... bridge building! water pictures! movies & popcorn! It all ends in a magical, fairy-lights-draped, bed and, of course, a special bedtime story. An everyday, thoroughly relatable, childhood experience, pepped up, as always, by Beardshaw's brilliant illustrations and full of carefully considered details (from the many patterned clothes to the cat pyjama end pages to the fixing up of Lulu and Hani's bedtime hair through puffs and gathered braids). [Black family; same-sex couple/aunties]. Age 3-7, Hardback 27pp Quantity:
Luna Loves Art by Joseph Coelho illustrated by Fiona Lumbers Ref: 16389 From the dynamic duo who brought you 'Luna Loves Library Day', sprightly, bouncy Luna is back and this time she's on a school trip to an art gallery. Dad packs her up with her backpack, lunch box and instant Camera and she's off! The gallery is ablaze with excited visitors, so why is classmate Finn acting up so much? Parent helper, Luna's Mum, suggests perhaps all he needs is a friend. Can Luna lift his mood with the Art Bug? A careful and sensitive story about different family backgrounds (Luna's parents are separated; Finn is experiencing an unspecified family breakdown). Absolutely splendiferous emulations of 'real art' by Coelho -Warhol's Campbell Soup! Matisse's Snail! Kusama's Pumpkin!- with a full list of works included at the front of the book. "Love the setting and story! A school trip to an art gallery with real art!" (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Manager, Letterbox Library reviewer). (A host of diverse background characters, including a wheelchair user and a child who wears a hearing aid). Age 4-7, Paperback 27pp Quantity:	Luna Loves Library Day by Joseph Coelho illustrated by Fiona Lumbers Ref: 2899 Luna enjoys her special weekly visit to the library. Mum drops her off and Dad is always already there, waiting, with his head in a book. Together they explore the stretchy Big Book section, the bug books area and a history book which describes the island dad grew up on. And then, together, they read a fairy tale -a genius addition of a book enclosed within this book- about a troll king and a mermaid queen who argue so much they decide to separate. An expansive book which manages to wrap up a story of family separation within a wider celebration of books, reading and libraries. A gorgeous ode to libraries and parental love (mixed race family). 'The whole thing is really beautiful and to be honest I did cry a bit...a beautiful book about a normal experience many children go through yet many people feel too awkward to explore or do so in a way that's too straightforward' (Josephine, teen reviewer for LL). Age 4-7, Paperback 22pp Quantity:
Luna's Red Hat Ref: 2600 A very important book. It is the start of Spring. But, Luna insists, today is not a day for smiling. Because today is the anniversary of her mum's death or, rather, her mum's suicide. Luna rages at her dad, "People you love don't get to stop living and leave you behind!" An extraordinarily difficult subject is given an honest and, nevertheless, soothing and reassuring treatment by a picture book for the very young. Luna's Dad allows her to express both her grief and her fury; he answers every question she has; he explains her Mum's illness; he banishes Luna's irrational guilt at her mum's death. Complete with a guide for carers by a bereavement specialist. 'A lovely, sensitive story' (Carey, Childminder, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Book allows Luna to express strong feelings, ask painful questions and, with support form her dad, to have a future that includes happy memories of her mum' (Maggie, Former Early Years Adviser, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 5-8, Hardback 24pp Quantity:	Made by Raffi by Craig Pomranz illustrated by Margaret Chamberlain Ref: 0253B Raffi is a shy boy who doesn’t like noisy games and is often teased at school. But when he gets the idea of making a scarf for his dad’s birthday he is full of enthusiasm, even though the other children think it is girly to knit. Then the day draws near for the school pageant, and there is one big problem - no costume for the prince. And that’s when Raffi has his most brilliant idea of all - to make a prince’s cape. On the day of the pageant, Raffi’s cape is the star of the show. Age 4-7, Paperback 40pp Quantity:
Malala's Magic Pencil by Malala Yousafzai illustrated by Kerascoet Ref: 2816 Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2018 If Malala had a magic pencil like the boy in the TV show she used to watch, she'd use it to "draw a better world, a peaceful world....erase war, poverty and hunger....draw girls and boys together as equals". Told in her own words, this is the story of Malala Yousafzai's childhood in Swat Valley, Pakistan. How she loved school and worked hard until the Taliban took control and banned girls from attending. How she dared to speak out against the regime and became a target. How she has continued to speak out, inspiring adults and children all over the world. A wonderful, age-appropriate picture book. Beautifully illustrated and wonderfully empowering. Age 5-9, Paperback 38pp Quantity:	Mama Loves Me from Away by Pat Brisson illustrated by Laurie Caple Ref: 571 A warm, moving story about a mother and child who are separated by a prison sentence- but who are kept in each other's hearts through their stories and their love. Age 6-9 American Import Hardback 29pp Quantity:
Mama and Mummy and Me in the Middle by Nina LaCour illustrated by Kaylani Juanita Ref: 16874 On Monday, Mummy, a film director, goes off on her work trip, leaving Mama and their child behind. She won't be back until Sunday. In between there will be school circle time, zoom calls, virtual hugs, library trips, food shops and movie nights. But there will also be grey skies, tears and a whole lot of missing. A very child-friendly, true-to-life yet soothing, picture book about a child's feelings in the face of a temporarily absent parent. Lavish spot art/full bleed illustrations cover the narrative in a glow of familial love. There are lots of fun details in the pictures such as the tiny night time racoons and the huge array of hairstyles in the classroom scene. Plus, some thoughtful inclusive details such as Chloe's neck brace, the shared hair bonnets/complex hairstyles of the protagonist and her Mummy, the film's Black female superhero, the child's Black doll. N.b.: Mama is White (with purple hair and multiple floral tattoos!); Mama is Black. Age 4-7, Hardback 30pp Quantity:	Mama Miti by Donna Jo Napoli illustrated by Kadir Nelson Ref: 2838 (trans. The Mother of Trees). Subtitled, 'Wangari Maathai and the Tress of Kenya', this is not the first story we have sold about this revolutionary environmentalist- but it is certainly one of the most beautiful. Brought up with the wisdom of trees, as an adult, Wangari Maathai went on to dispense her knowledge by encouraging the planting of different trees which would in turn bring a wealth of materials and nourishment for local Kenyan communities, creating a new self-sufficiency and, ultimately, the reforestation of great swathes of Kenya's landscapes, tree by tree by tree. A lyrical retelling of the greatness of Wangari Maathai: the first African woman to win the Nobel Peace prize, the first female head at a Kenyan university department and the originator of the Green Belt Movement. Illustrated by a much celebrated artist- a backnote has Kadir Nelson describing his use of oil paints and printed fabrics to emulate an Eastern African aesthetic. 'Excellent. Skilful writing and attractive illustrations present an important story. Simply told, but with enough detail to enable it to provide a good foundation on the topic. Very good afterword, glossary etc.' (Elena, Community Librarian, Letterbox reviewer). Age 7-10 Hardback 32pp Quantity:
The Many Colours of Harpreet Singh by Surpriya Kelkar illustrated by Alea Marley Ref: 16809 Harpreet is a fan of colours. Lots of colours. He has loads of patkas in loads of colours to suit every possible mood. But, when Mum's new job means moving to a different part of the country and starting at a new school, Harpreet just wants to disappear. And so, increasingly, he sticks with the colour white. One day, just as Harpreet feels himself disappearing into a blanket of fresh snow, a girl in a fluffy smiley woolly hat extends a warm mitten-hand...which has Harpreet reaching out for blazes of colour once more! Accompanied by an explanatory backnote on the significance of Sikh turbans and patkas. By an Indian-American author with an equally established track record in scripting Hindi films! UK (British-Barbadian) illustrator). 'Positive portrayal of Sikh family. Nice way of centring the patka without making it an issue' (Farrah, CLPE Learning Programme Leader, Letterbox Library review team.) Age 4-7, Hardback 26pp Quantity:	The Marvellous Doctors for Magical Creatures by Jodie Lancet-Grant illustrated by Lydia Corry Ref: 16823 From the team who brought you The Pirate Mums (look out for their cameo!) comes another quirky upbeat story where the 'twist' isn't quite where you'd expect it to be. Ava isn't strictly a doctor...as yet...but her dads certainly are. And this is certainly no average family. The twist? It's not that Ava has two dads (why would that be a 'twist'?!) It's that these dads treat hoarse dragons and spotty mermaids! They are in fact very marvellous doctors treating very magical creatures. But when Glitterbug the Unicorn rocks up at the surgery, it looks like only Ava is able to carry out the necessary investigations, diagnosis and prescription. Meet your first ever Goth, Bowie-esque unicorn. Loads of fun and silliness with some smooth messaging about being true to your own, very unique, identity. After all, there's always been more than one way to be a unicorn. Age 3-7, Paperback 30pp Quantity:
Mary and Frankenstein by Linda Bailey illustrated by Júlia Sardà Ref: 16692 "In that strange, lost time between wake and sleep, she has a kind of daydream. She sees a hideous monster, made of dead body parts, stretched out-and coming to life!" An account of the life of the UK's very own Mary Shelley and, in particular, the famous ghost-story-swapping night she shared with her literary contemporaries... during which she began work on her very own creation: "Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus". First published in 1818, Shelley's remarkable work of gothic fiction marked the origins of sci-fi fiction and birthed, arguably, the greatest fictional monster. And all this from a young 18-year-old woman in a world dominated by men. A lovely retelling with Sardà's watercolor-and-digital illustrations providing the perfect gothic moodiness. A picture book pitched at a slightly older and broader age range than usual. Will be a springboard for budding authors and illustrators. Plus -hello! English teachers!- it offers a tantalising trailer for reading Shelley's novel. Age 6-10, Paperback 42pp Quantity:	Max The Champion by Sean Stockdale and Alexandra Strick illustrated by Ros Asquith Ref: 0193B It's a great day for sport-loving Max as his school wins the fun tournament. Expressive, multicultural illustrations enhance this effortlessly inclusive book. Age 3-7, Paperback 24pp Quantity:
Mayor Bunny's Chocolate Town Ref: 17169 Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2023 Mr Bunny is back! And this time he has his eye on Coop Town's mayorship. And if that means a campaign of audacious lies, fearmongering and smearing opponents like nice and sensible chook, Debbie, then who's he to hold back? All boring Debbie has to offer is creating change through teamwork and cooperation. But Mayor Bunny promises to rebuild CoopTown in... chocolate! Until he doesn't. We last saw Mr Bunny in Mr Bunny's Chocolate Factory (also for sale here) which was also shortlisted for the Little Rebels Award- in 2018. It's hoppingly fabulous to see him back, reaching out for another grasp at power and, inevitably, tripping up... An ode to democracy and sounding a death knell for fake news and electoral corruption. "Made me smile. Maybe a copy could be sent to Boris- for his children of course!" (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp Click here to download reading and discussion guide. Quantity:	Me and My Fear Ref: 16803 This book's protagonist has always had a tiny blobby friend called Fear by her side. Fear has been companionable, protective and purposeful. But, since arriving in a new country, Fear has expanded and bulked up several fold. And now, a sweet little spongy blob has become something engulfing, a barrier and a block to new experiences and change. Fear tries to stop her going to school, won't let her play with others at break time and is desperate to get back home again. An engrossing and skilful exploration of anxiety which ultimately shows the reader how to shrink their worries back down into manageable feelings. Perfect for exploring life transitions and for new arrivals. 'A lovely and original way of exploring fear and isolation' (Kerry, Letterbox Library Staff). By an award winning visual storyteller. Endorsed by Amnesty International. Age 3-7, Hardback 32pp Quantity:
Me and My Sister Ref: 2898 Written by one of Inclusive Minds' very own Ambassadors (http://www.inclusiveminds.com/inclusion-ambassadors.php), this tells the lovely story of two siblings. This brother and sister have their differences- she doesn't use words a lot, she is sometimes rude to nanna, she likes to play with (live!) frogs, she doesn't always like hugs. But she also makes her brother laugh and they do lots of things together- listening and bopping to music, getting muddy outdoors and finishing their food at the exact same time. A gentle and clever story about having an autistic sibling. Age 3-7 Hardback 29pp Quantity:	Meesha Makes Friends Ref: 16396 Meesha loves making things. Lots and lots of things. But the thing she finds very hard to make is friends. She stumbles for the right words, she can't find the best way to join in. She can, however, make cut out chums with glue and buttons and string and Choco Crunch and Moo's Milk boxes. And, it turns out it is her making things which helps her make a new friend! A really original approach to children's friendship in its recognition that some children really struggle to develop the skills needed to reach out to others. Percivals's trademark reduced palette. Here, monochrome shot through with red, blue and pink. South Asian protagonist. Age 4-7, Paperback 28pp Quantity:
The Mediterranean Ref: 16228 A wordless picture book which lurches you through to an ending and an afterword (by writer and journalist Leogrande) which then flings you back to the start with a new understanding of what you've just witnessed. A silent dramatisation of the exploitation of desperate people, their perilous journeys and the transformation of the Mediterranean into a mass grave. 'A brilliant evocation not only of the impact of colonialism but of Europe's continuing refusal to take responsibility for the world created and ills wrought by colonial powers...It value for anyone involved in education or anti-discrimination work is huge' (Mark Jennett, Equalities Trainer/Consultant, LL reviewer). By the author of The Island (also listed by us). And, likewise, a picture book for older readers. Age 8-11, Hardback 36pp Quantity:	The Memory Tree Ref: 2848 Fox has lived a long and happy life- and now, finally, he is tired. He walks off to a clearing in the forest, lies down, falls asleep and never wakes up. One by one, Fox's woodland friends come to sit near him. And, one by one, they begin to share memories of their own special times with Fox. As they do so, a tiny seed buds into a sapling and then grows into a tree which climbs higher and higher, preserving their memories and lightening their hearts. Beautifully textured illustrations with all the tones of autumn by an internationally renowned artist. 'Always room for gentle stories like this portraying loss/memories of happy times. I really like it.' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Manager, LL reviewer). 'The illustrations are beautiful and the text just right' (Eileen, Former Teacher, LL reviewer). Age 4-7 Paperback 26pp Quantity:
Michael Rosen's Sad Book by Michael Rosen illustrated by Quentin Blake Ref: 149 Michael Rosen writes movingly of the death of his son, exploring feelings of anger and sadness as well as enjoying the happy memories. This is an original and deeply touching account of bereavement, accompanied by Quentin Blake's superb and quirky pictures. A book to treasure always. Age 8-Adult Paperback 29pp Quantity:	Migrants Ref: 16660 Against a blackest-ink background, a group of anthropomorphic creatures, carrying just the clothes on their backs and a few pots and pans, make a perilous journey through forest and across seas, stalked constantly by the robed figure of Death and their familiar, a giant blue Ibis. A wordless picture book which movingly depicts the plight of desperate migrants. 'This is a powerful book of strength, loss, compassion and ultimately hope...wow! I loved this book!' (Sonia, Primary Headteacher, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Wow! This is tough but stunning. The illustrations are absolutely beautiful. You could start so many conversations [with this]- climate change, animal extinction as well as migration' (Patrice, children's/YA author, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 5-10, New Zealand Import, Hardback 32pp Quantity:
Milo and Monty Ref: 17025 Puppies Milo and Monty have come to live with the McKenzies. But while they like doing lots of things together, Milo very often prefers to be left alone quietly. One day, when the house is especially noisy, Milo goes off to his favourite beneath-the-desk spot. To his surprise, someone else is already there... Cousin Henry! The wider family soon notice how similar Henry and Milo are. Both have a favourite toy, neither likes to be hugged, both gravitate to quiet, cosy spots, both prefer a set daily routine. And so, the McKenzies simply adapt to fit around Milo's needs. An excellent book for introducing empathy and awareness of differences, it is also a fantastic prompt for a conversation about autism and how small adjustments can make someone who is autistic feel safe and secure. (Features both a mixed race and a single parent family). Age 4-7 , Paperback 28pp Quantity:	Milo Imagines the World by Matt de la Peña illustrated by Christian Robinson Ref: 17138 From the team who brought you the magnificent, award-winning, Last Stop on Market Street! One Sunday, each month, Milo pops on board an underground train to visit his mum. Every time, he fees like a "shook-up soda" with a belly full of butterflies. To distract the wobbles, he carefully notes every passenger, from the concentrating whiskered man beside him to the child with the brightest whitest Nikes to the young break dancing women who walk up the walls. (Count the faces turned down to mobile phones while Milo peers around and about everywhere!) With each one, he imagines their lives- where they live, how they live. But are his imaginations anywhere close to the truth? And where will his journey take him? A fantastic story and a really good platform for talking about how we form assumptions and judgements about others. Expressive, poetic language, perfect for extending vocabulary. The interjection of Milo's own casual crayon pictures are a lovely touch. (Theme: family in prison) Age 4-8, Paperback 36pp Quantity:
Missing Mummy Ref: 0057B Simple text and evocative artwork combine to gently explore a child's fears and feelings after the death of a parent. Honest but reassuring. Excellent! Age 3-6, Paperback 24pp Quantity:	The Moonlight Zoo by Maudie Powell-Tuck illustrated by Karl James Mountford Ref: 16585 The moon is high and the night is in full swing, but Eva can't find her cat, Luna. She misses her rocket-engine purr. And so, Eva creeps out on a search at dusk, encountering a magical place: The Moonlight Zoo, home of lost pets, with a Penguin Palace, Monkey Island, Wolf Mountain.... A dreamy, night time, peep-through adventure, with clever die cuts, layered up pages, a muted mauve palette- and starring a protagonist who wears a hearing aid. 'Really lovely book. Beautiful illustrations and paper engineering' (Beth, Inclusive Minds founder, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 20pp Quantity:
Motherbridge of Love by Anonymous illustrated by Josée Masse Ref: 9336B A soothing, lyrical poem written by an adoptive mother and accompanied by fantastic illustrations. A hugely positive account of transnational adoption. 'Beautifully describes the relationship that adopters discover' (Senior Adoption Worker, Letterbox reviewer). Age 5-9, Paperback 29pp Quantity:	The Most Beautiful Village in the World Ref: 15815 A powerful book exploring the impact of war in a fresh, compelling way; dedicated to "the children of Afghanistan." Rich, burnt-orange artwork introduces the village of Paghman, Afghanistan. We witness a community going about its daily life through the eyes of a young child as he joins in the harvesting of plums and cherries and accompanies his dad to market in a bustling neighbouring town. The presence of war is kept at a distance in the background images while the foreground teams with the bright colours of a thriving modern town with its bazaars and teahouses and mosques. Until the final page... 'Very evocative and moving... very original and real' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Mgr., Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Enjoyed the cheerful dialogue and beautiful illustrations. Thought that the sense of community was nice' (Nicola, young Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 6-8, Hardback 40pp Quantity:
Mr Bunny's Chocolate Factory Ref: 2820 Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2018 A fun, anarchic picture book about a fat cat, or rather Mr Bunny, and his chocolate egg factory run by chickens and a quality control unicorn. When ever-greedy Mr Bunny decides production must go up and up and up, the machines are stretched to breaking point, the choc-egg-laying chickens are overfed to the point of sickness, bad eggs begin to turn up in the production line and customers start to complain...all of which merely prompts Mr Bunny to cancel all employee holidays. The tired and poorly chickens finally go on strike, leaving Mr Bunny with a dilemma. Will the Big Chick Protest win the day? Unchecked capitalism, workers conditions, ethical and cooperative working practises all made immediately accessible through a highly comic narrative which never minimises the issues at play. Reminiscent of the protesting moo-cows of Click, Clack, Moo: Cows That Type (2000). Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp Quantity:	Mr Watson's Chickens by Jarrett Dapier illustrated by Andrea Tsurumi Ref: 16835 Mr Watson (White) lives with Mr Nelson (East Asian). In a honking house. In a honking city. With a titchy yard, shared with 2 dogs, 3 cats and a mere handful of chickens. Except, before long, the chicken numbers start to grow. And grow. One day the chickens count in at 456. The noise, topped off by Aunt Agnes clucking Shooby-doo on a loop, becomes a little challenging. Especially for Mr. Nelson, who threatens to leave. What can Mr. Watson do? He loves his chickens. But he loves Mr. Nelson far more. The silliest of chook tales which incidentally stars a same-sex couple. (Some nice background context too in the incredibly detailed Where's-Wally-esque spreads: rainbow and trans pride flags; an ethnically diverse wider community, a range of families etc.) Age 3-6, Hardback 40pp Quantity:
Mum and Dad Glue by Kes Gray illustrated by Lee Wildish Ref: 1065 "My mum and dad have come undone. I need to find some glue". Fantastically soothing rhymes and dynamic artwork compliment a heartfelt story of parental separation. Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp Quantity:	My Best Friend by Nicola Call and Sally Featherstone by Jane Massey Ref: 0240 Molly and Sunita are playgroup friends who spend time together every day, playing, talking, and learning about getting on with each other. Their relationship is generally good but even the best of friends sometimes fall out or feel grumpy! Molly is learning that Sunita has moods and feelings, but these will not get in the way of true friendship.The Dealing with Feelings series teaches positive behaviour and promotes personal, social, emotional skills. Developed and written by experts and supported by research, each book includes additional notes and tips to help teachers, practitioners and parents reinforce the lessons children are learning through the simple stories. Age 2-5, Paperback 18pp Quantity:
My Dad is a Grizzly Bear by Swapna Haddow illustrated by Dapo Adeola Ref: 16433 Dad has scratchy-scritchy fur, he eats up all of the honey, he naps and he grumbles; he also growls out the loudest karaoke renditions; he likes to pitch up in the woods; he gives the bestest bear hugs. A great spoonful of Dad-love, served up with Adeola's supremely expressive illustrations. Watch out for the double page spread showing a cinema audience, bathed with light effects and filled with our full range of humanity, from an Edwardian monocled man to a nose-pierced, blue-puffball-styled woman. 'I found myself smiling throughout reading this book.' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, Letterbox Library reviewer). Mixed race family. British South Asian author and British Black illustrator. Age 4-7, Paperback 26pp Quantity:	My Footprints by Bao Phi illustrated by Basia Tran Ref: 16069 In this affirming story, Thuy finds the might she needs to rise above her peers' prejudices by stomping out a snowy path, her two Mums foot-printing close beside her. An affirming tale of bullying overcome. 'I love this book, the writing is very poetic and the story is charming with an independent heroine...the continuing ideas of footsteps is one that small children can relate to' (Deborah, Lecturer in EY Education, LL reviewer). (Asian-American and Vietnamese-Polish author and illustrator). Age 4-7, Paperback 26pp Quantity:
My Friend Amy by Anna McQuinn photos by Irvin Cheung Ref: 9703 Amy and Monifa were both born in the UK- but Amy is Chinese. They have similarities and differences. They are best friends. Superb explorations of friendships across cultures. Enchanting! Age 4-7, Hardback 30pp Quantity:	My Grandma and Me by Mina Javaherbin illustrated by Lindsey Yankey Ref: 2950 "In this universe full of many moons, I have travelled and seen many wonders, but I've never loved anything or anyone the way I loved my grandma". The author reflects on her life in Iran growing up with her Grandma. Full of shared intimacies, it's a wonderfully warm hug-of-a-life. Even when Mina is with best friend, Annette, her grandma is nearby, knitting blankets with Annette's, donating them to their respective mosque and church. Illustrations incorporating Persian designs, evoke a rich, contemporary Iranian setting, smoothly blending the traditional with the contemporary. 'Beautifully captures the heart of their special relationship. Thoughtful, touching and honest. The cultural references feel authentic. Lovely!' (Farrah, CLPE Learning Programme Leader, LL reviewer). 'Loving kindness is at the heart of this story which is told and illustrated with a delicate touch' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, LL reviewer). Age 4 to 7, Hardback 30pp Quantity:
My Mum is a Fire Fighter Ref: 0130 Fantastic, real photo book starring mum the fire fighter. Spiral bound with plastic outer covers. 'Super format; great photos with minimal text; positive portrayal(s)' (Children's Centre Head, LL reviewer). Age 2-5, Card Pages 20pp Quantity:	My School Unicorn by Willow Evas illustrated by Tom Knight Ref: 16610 Evie has the wobbles. Nursery was fun. Big school sounds, well, scary. But Madame Lexi's Emporium might just provide the perfect anxiety-soothing solution...is it the new smart uniform? Or could it be an actual unicorn? A pointy-golden-horned unicorn...? First day at school has never been so magical, nor so exciting. Very pinkified, complete with a sparkly pink-maned unicorn, but also loved by our reviewers for its portrayal of a single parent/Dad (Black) family and its realistic description of big-school-wobbles. Age 4-7, Paperback 27pp Quantity:
My Secret Bully by Trudy Ludwig illustrated by Abigail Marble Ref: 9250 A much needed look at emotional bullying between girls and a 'very true depiction of the affect it has on a girl when a "friend" changes' (School Librarian, Letterbox reviewer). A huge success in the US, this is a must for the UK classroom. Age 6-10 American Import Paperback 29pp Quantity:	My World, Your World Ref: 8511 Kavita wears a sari, Jacob wears a warm jacket - but they both wear trainers for gym. Bold and brilliant illustrations and simple text explore the diversity of children from around the world while also stressing their commonality. Striking and effective. Age 2-6 Paperback 30pp. Quantity:
Nen and the Lonely Fisherman by Ian Eagleton illustrated by James Mayhew Ref: 16410 Nen the Merman yearns for...something...and every night he leaves his underwater kingdom to go a-seeking. Ernest the fisherman also aches for...something...and spends his evenings gazing out on to a moonlit sea. A tender song over the waves brings the two together, bathing them in hope and happiness. But Palagios, ruler of the underwater kingdom, is about to exact his anger on the ocean polluters above...Can Nen and Ernest survive the ensuing storm? The last time we had such a lyrical evocation of an intimate relationship between men was surely back in the days of 'Hello Sailor' (2003 UK; 2000 the Netherlands). How wonderful to now have something home-grown, from a UK author/illustrator team, and one which equivocates far less and, instead, joyfully celebrates romantic love between two men. An absolute treat. (Also a brilliant take on The Little Mermaid and an excellent environmental subtext.) Age 4-8, Paperback 26pp Quantity:	Never Ever Ref: 0133 "Nothing exciting never ever happens to me! Humph..." Or, does it? A cumulative, rib-tickler of a story told mostly through astonishingly lovely illustrations. Adored by our reviewers. Age 2-5, Paperback 26pp Quantity:
The New Neighbours Ref: 15701 Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2019 There is a family of rats newly arrived in the tower block. The bunnies are hoppingly-excited. But the other residents have their concerns. Vern the sheep thinks they will be dirty; Matilda the pig thinks they will smell; Astrid the polar bear knows about their 'reputation' for stealing. It might be wise to knock on the new neighbours' door and find out what's what... "An irresistibly smart and funny picture-book which satirizes contemporary fears and preconceptions about 'newcomers'" (Little Rebels Award website). Age 4-7, Paperback 31pp Quantity:	New Shoes, Red Shoes by Susan Rollings illustrated by Becky Baur Ref: 17031 "Friends' shoes, comfy shoes, tiny little baby shoes...Big shoes, twinkly shoes, Mary Jane and boating shoes". Every conceivable pair of shoes. No, really. All of the shoes! Look out especially for the ladybug heels, the peachy fluffy numbers and the starry platform boots. A parent and child head for a day out, arriving, finally, at a shop full of shoe treasures... all of the busy backgrounds are very inclusive. 'Lovely book. Bright and colourful. Good rhythm and rhyme. Lots to look at. I think children will enjoy this as they love to tell me if they are wearing sandals, trainers or wellies when I ask them to put their shoes on!' (Carey, Childminder, Letterbox Library reviewer). Mixed race family. Age 2-5, Paperback 28pp Quantity:
Omar, the Bees and Me by Helen Mortimer illustrated by Katie Cottle Ref: 16507 It all began with new arrival, Omar, bringing a wedge of Mum's honey cake to show & tell, inspired by his grandpa's beekeeping. Prompted by Omar's story, teacher Mr Ellory-Jones, gets the children to make a bee corridor with scrunchy pink tissue paper...but Omar and Maisie decide that they want to take the corridor outdoors! Soon they are rallying all of Class One to wild-up the local neighbourhood. By summer time, buzzing bees are making the flowers fizz and new pals Maisie and Omar have become 'Momar'. A story of creativity, teamwork, making friends, new beginnings, sustainability and happy bees! Honey cake recipe and bee facts flourish on the end pages...(Extra-nice 'casually inclusive' touches include an ethnically/racially diverse community, disability and gay representations- Mr Ellory-Jones has a husband). 'What a lovely inclusive book with great illustrations. Community involvement, Working together. Yes!' (Rosalind, Workforce Dev. Office, Letterbox Library Reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp Quantity:	On Sudden Hill by Linda Sarah illustrated by Benji Davies Ref: 14490 Every day, Birt and Etho take their cardboard boxes all the way up Sudden Hill to play for hours and hours, enjoying their special, "two-by-two rhythm". But then, one Monday, a small child called Shu appears with his own box, wanting to join in...Can their friendship take a new addition? A new, three-by-three rhythm? A superb celebration of imaginative and creative outdoor play. It is also a gentle story which will resonate with lots of children as a group of boys negotiate a new friendship group with thought, empathy, mutual respect, care and real kindness. How good to see a bunch of boys allowed to express emotional intelligence. Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp Quantity:
Orion and the Dark Ref: 17130 Meet Orion. Orion is scared of a great many things: popping balloons, monsters, tartan. But, creepiest of all, is The Dark with its pitch blackness and its scary sounds. And then, one night, a grey-black bulky blob drops through the skylight with the offer of a nighttime adventure... Attractive mixed media artwork (look out for Dark's extending arm flap!). Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp Quantity:	Ossiri and the Bala Mengro by Richard O'Neill & Katherine Quarmby illustrated by Hannah Tolson Ref: 2675 Ossiri is a Traveller girl, one of the Tattin Folki who toil day in and day out, recycling, renewing and selling on all manner of goods. When Ossiri discovers her inner musician, she decides to craft herself a special instrument out of scraps. Music to her own ears, her family aren't quite so convinced by her melodies...But then, when the family move on to Lancashire, Ossiri takes her music up on to the peaks where she is greeted enthusiastically by a great big yawning ogre, the Bala Mengro. Indeed this beastie seems to be able to turn her music into gold! The very talented Richard O'Neill, a Romani storyteller, gets this traditional Traveller tale in print and in doing so, not only offers a perfectly formed read aloud but also a casual insight into Travelling culture. "Has all the component of a stompingly good fairytale with its hairy ogre, its pint-sized hero and its journey towards good fortune. I'm a fan! (Now where can I find my own pair of very shiny leather boots!' (Fen, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 28pp Quantity:
Our Grandparents Ref: 12120 Babushka, Bubbe, Dadi and Grann! A gloriously global and vibrant photographic album celebrating our grandparents. Age 3-7, American Import Paperback 30pp Quantity:	Our Story Starts in Africa by Patrice Lawrence illustrated by Jeanetta Gonzales Ref: 16954 "'You, me and your cousins are from the oldest family in the world,' Tante Janet says. 'And our story starts in Africa.' 'My story doesn't start there, Tante!' Paloma says. 'I wasn't born in Africa.' Tante smiles…" A visit to her family in Trinidad launches Paloma onto a whirlwind tour of African history, beginning with an ancient warrior queen from the Kingdom of Kush. Another picture book triumph by the award-winning Patrice Lawrence in which she communicates important truths to the youngest of children through artful storytelling, here complemented by Gonzales' brushstrokes which light up the contemporary Trinidadian scenes and bathe the historical sections in golden sepia tones. 'A beautiful book. I just loved it.' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Beautiful storytelling and illustrations. I love how they were able to simplify the history so it is understandable for children without losing the meaning. Very educational and important story that was brought to life with bright colours and illustrations' (Nicole, young Letterbox Library reviewer). Includes some wonderfully simple historical backnotes and suggestions for further reading. Age 4-8, Hardback 32pp Quantity:
Outdoor Opposites by Brenda Williams illustrated by Rachel Oldfield, sung by The Flannery Brothers Ref: 2552 Standing/sitting, smiling/frowning, high/low, whisper/shout, shrink/grow! A fun collection of opposites are explored, including some less obvious candidates. All are demonstrated by a happy band of children enjoying the great outdoors. Activities include picnicking, tree climbing, tadpole catching, camping and fireside sausage sizzling. By the by, these outdoor adventurers include, unusually for picture book representations, a (S.E.Asian) child with a shortened arm. Comes with the addition of publisher Barefoot's trademark 'watch and sing-along' CD with video animations, simple lyrics and a catchy tune. Age 2-5 Paperback + CD/Video 31pp Quantity:	Out of the Blue by Robert Tregoning illustrated by Stef Murphy Ref: 17199 In a world saturated by blue and governed by blue-only laws which confine rainbow colours to the technicolour trash, one little boy keeps his love of yellow a secret. Ashamed and afraid, he stashes his yellow prizes (rubber duck, submarine, yellow tights!) in the closet, only opening the doors at night to release his treasures. And then, one night, his dad walks in on this whirling yellow glow. The child is terrified. But his Dad surprises him. "Could loving yellow be ok"? Drawing on his own experience of growing up in the 1990s, under Section 28, the author says, "It often felt like the world I was living in wasn't designed for me to fit in to it and that I had to hide parts of myself to be accepted. The colour law in Out of the Blue and the boy's secret love of yellow are a way of visualising those feelings" (Picture Book Perfect blog 23/2/23). (Single parent family/Dad.) Age 4-7, Paperback 31pp Quantity:
Over the Shop by JonArno Lawson illustrated by Qin Leng Ref: 16860 A chipper child lives with her grouchy, downward-turned-mouthed grandparent above their shop. When they advertise the flat above for rent, prospective tenants rush away from the dilapidated home. But then, one day, a couple peer in hopefully at the 'Flat to Rent' sign. The grandparent doesn't like the look of them and snatches the sign away. But the child thinks these new guests could be just the right fit and pleads their case. The deal is sealed and the couple move in, bringing with them help, hope, love and more than a few licks of paint. And sooner than you might expect, a new stitched-together family of four is made. It is very difficult to convey quite how beautiful this wordless book is. It is, ultimately, a story of belonging, community and prejudice overcome; of 'outsiders'- two people of colour, probably two women (in any case a queer couple)- entering an inward-looking neighbourhood and creating a new household in their wake. At the centre sits a kind, observant child who embraces all of her world. Children will enjoy the parallel plot of a wandering, neighbourhood stray cat who naturally slots into the new family at the end. Classrooms will enjoy folding out all of the layers of the visual narrative. There are discussion points everywhere. 'I absolutely adored this. The pictures are gorgeous and the story satisfyingly full of detail yet easy to follow... Subtly but delightfully affirming, this will appeal not just to children who instantly recognise families like these but to many others who will respond to the warmth and inclusiveness that pervades the book' (Mark Jennett, Equalities Trainer/Consultant, Letterbox Library reviewer). NB: many of the gender identities are ambiguous and at least one reviewer has suggested the East Asian adult in the newcomer couple is a trans man which is certainly a possible interpretation. A trained 'queer' eye will note the book's dedication and will spot some extra visual signifiers in the detailed, delicate ink-and-watercolour illustrations. Age 4-9, Hardback40pp Quantity:	Owl Bat Bat Owl Ref: 16650 4 owls -a parent and 3 babies- snooze atop a branch. 4 bats -a parent and 3 babies- swoop in to hang below. Parent owl doesn't like the look of the newcomers and shuffles the flock along. But then comes a great gust of wind and a great big tumble down. Who will be saved? A simple, striking, wordless picture book about creatures (and people!) who are unalike sharing the same space in the world. 'Loved this. Everything about it made me smile- you could have a whole conversation about the birds' expressions. I love these wonderful picture books where you don't have to read English to enjoy it with children' (Patrice, YA/children's author, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'I love this. Completely accessible for kids with reading difficulties. A story told powerfully in pictures' (June, Parent, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 3-7, Paperback 29pp Quantity:
Pacho Nacho by Silvia López illustrated by Pablo Pino Ref: 16615 An extended family argue about what their newborn's name should be. In truly democratic style, the child is named after all 8 name suggestions, creating the longest, most beautiful, of names. But, will this little tongue-twister prove an asset or a hindrance in later life? Based on the Japanese folktale of Jugemu, a tale which has spanned at least 3 continents but, says the author, which missed Hispanic America. Relocated here, to Mexico, a comical retelling with a wonderful smattering of Spanish words. Cuban-American author and Argentinean illustrator. Age 4-7, Paperback 28pp Quantity:	The Parrot and the Merchant Ref: 2859 A Persian merchant, Mah Jahan, travels far and wide collecting gorgeous birds which she cages and chains. But her most prized possession is her talking parrot from India- and the parrot's greatest desire is to be free again... An accessible yet rich and haunting narrative about loving someone/thing enough to set them free. Unique artwork which relishes the fine details of textured fabrics and bustles and shimmers with colours. Based on a thirteenth century fable from famed Persian Sunni Muslim poet and philosopher, Rumi, recast and reframed by this illustrator so as to star a female merchant. 'I really like this simple fable and original illustrations- very appealing' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Manager, Letterbox reviewer). 'A simple, beautifully retold fable. This would be a lovely model for writing in Primary schools' (Sonia, Deputy Primary Head, Letterbox reviewer). Age 5-8, Paperback 21pp Quantity:
Patricia's Vision: The Doctor Who Saved Sight by Michelle Lord illustrated by Alleanna Harris Ref: 16713 An account of a very brilliant life- the inventor of a laser probe used to remove cataracts and, subsequently, the first African American woman doctor to receive a medical patent. Doctor Patricia Bath (1942-2019) was also profoundly concerned with social justice, using medical interventions to support those unable to access or afford care, leading to her recognition by President Obama in 2009 for her work with the blind. An original addition to Black History's timeline. 'Really thorough insight into a lesser known Black story in the UK mainstream. A nice complement to texts of trailblazers and helps broaden types of achievements recognised in this space' (Farrah, CLPE Learning Programme Leader, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 6-10, Hardback 41pp Quantity:	Patrick's Polka Dot Tights by Kristen McCurry illustrated by MacKenzie Haley Ref: 17297 Patrick has the most prefect-est pair of purple polka-dotted tights. They are ideal for wearing to do absolutely everything and anything. There's just one hitch: they belong to sister Penelope and she needs them back! Will Patrick get his stretchy leg wear back? Distinctly cheery and full of wry humour. 'It's a masterpiece of positive inclusion. The illustrations reveal a child comfortable with his identity who dresses and behaves as he pleases regardless of convention- and a family who accept and nurture his identity' (Mark Jennett, Equalities Trainer/Consultant, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp Quantity:
Pattan's Pumpkin: An Indian Flood Story by Chitra Soudnar illustrated by Frané Lessac Ref: POR50 Farmers Pattan and Kanni replant and nurture an ailing pumpkin which then grows and grows...by the time the rains descend and a storm threatens to wash them all away, the pumpkin is huge enough to act as a perfect escape vehicle for them, along with the local flora and fauna. Today, some of Pattan's descendents live in the same valley (the foothills of the Sahyadri mountains), nurturing and tending to their environment, which includes growing... pumpkins! A delightful story which originated amongst the Irular tribe from Kerala, Southern India and has been cleverly adapted here by Chitra Soundar. Complemented by Lessac's trademark bright palette and childlike block pictures. 'Lovely illustrations, brilliant storyline' (Nike, Social Worker, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 24pp Quantity:	Pearl Power and the Toy Problem Ref: 2590 Pearl Power is back and this time, she and her new bestie, Sebastian, take on the marketing forces which target toys to children according to their gender. Provoked by newcomer, Jerome, who tells Pearl she can't play with his dinosaur because, "THIS is a dinosaur, YOU are a girl!", the children decide to challenge the advertising industry who spread those pernicious messages about boys' toys and girls' toys in the first place. And so, they pen a letter to the "TV Boss" in their very neatest handwriting, prompting a surprising and welcome reply. 'I enjoyed reading this book that clearly shows that girls are the same as boys. Many people don't realise that there is no written rules to say that girls can't play with boys' toys and boys can't play with girls' toys' (Nicole, aged 11, LL reviewer). A clear, uncompromising message in a good, strong, rhyming story. 'Would lead to a lot of discussion and talking' (Deborah, Ed. Lecturer, LL review). And if the gendered marketing of toys or books raises your hackles, get yourself over to the brilliant, joy-filled, campaigning group, Let Toys be Toys (http://lettoysbetoys.org.uk/) Age 4-7, Paperback 34pp Quantity:
The Perfect Shelter by Clare Helen Welsh illustrated by Asa Gilland Ref: 16619 A child builds the perfect shelter out in the woods with her sister, their parents watching on. The narrator knows that something isn't quite right with her family. And, when the rains come, her sister isn't there to help stack the sticks high and patch over the cracks with leaves. Instead, she's in hospital and even Dad's fairy cakes can't bring any cheer. But maybe, just maybe, they can bring the sanctuary of their together-shelter indoors? A rare and much-needed book addressing long term illness in the family from a young child's point of view. Soft illustrations and a text full of tenderness. "Whilst it does not shy away from the reality of cancer, the balance is spot on, striking a successfully positive and heartwarming pitch, reminding us all to fully appreciate the precious moments together as we ride out our various storms" (BookTrust website review). (Mixed race family). Age 4-8, Paperback 27pp Quantity:	Pirate Baby by Mary Hoffman illustrated by Ros Asquith Ref: 15856 When pirate ship Ramshackle comes across a bawling, floating baby, the crew are stumped. When they discover it's a girl baby they are doubly flummoxed. But soon, the rhythms of the days at sea circle around Baby Isla as this band of pirates adapts and caters to her needs- Spoons the Cook sews her a stack of nappies, Red Bart the Bosom creates a toy squid for her, Jolly Roger the Captain simply...adores her! Have the pirates lost their pirating mettle? Or have their numbers simply got stronger? A gentle challenge to gender stereotypes, given extra pizzazz and spark by Ros Asquith's trademark illustrations in which humour simmers and bubbles in the tiniest details (the on-ship tins of jellied babies, the pirate knitting patters by "Hook & Aye", The Wicked Wench ship of fearsome women, Plunderpuss the cat...) Oh- also, there are pirates. Age 4-7, Paperback 26pp Quantity:
The Pirate Mums by Jodie Lancet-Grant illustrated by Lydia Corry Ref: 16654 "Billy's family was not what you'd call ordinary". His two mums sing sea shanties, their pet is Birdbrain the parrot and the style of their house is somewhat...fishy! So when his mums volunteer to join the school trip to the seaside, Billy is initially totally mortified. But when their boat ride is interrupted by rumbling thunder and banging lightning bolts, Mummy and Mama -and a few rainbow flares- are just what's needed to bring them home safely. A good addition to a small but, finally, growing collection of UK-published picture books with lgbtq+ content. By an author keen to reflect back to her daughter her two-mum family. Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp Quantity:	The Pirate Tree by Brigita Orel illustrated by Jennie Poh Ref: 16798 The crooked old tree on the horizon doubles up as Sam's very own pirate ship. When newcomer Agu (from Nigeria) asks to climb aboard, Sam is, at first hesitant: "You're not from my street," she protests. But soon, a game of desert islands, fearsome pirates and a circuit of Cape Horn brings them together. A simple idea of imaginative play forging and cementing new friendships, executed through lovely illustrations (the fishy end pages are delightful). Age 4-7, Hardback 24pp Quantity:
A Place to Stay: A Shelter Story by Erin Gunti illustrated by Estelí Meza Ref: 16093 An anxious child isn't sure about the new shelter her mum has taken her to. She finds it hard to find 'home' there, to find her place there. But through her mum's boundless, comforting imagination she is finally able to find a place of familiarity. An expertly written, child-centred text which can be used to explore the many different traumas which force families into homelessness and to seek places of sanctuary. Written by a social services professional and with input from a Domestic Violence charity. 'This book helps us to empathise with the trauma of losing home but it also has at its heart a loving mother who is able to help he child, using her creativity of thought to make the change more bearable' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, LL reviewer). 'What an excellent book- and very much needed (Elaine, Foster Care Associates Liaison Officer, LL reviewer). Includes a backnote on shelters and homelessness. Age 5-9, Paperback 27pp Quantity:	Plenty of Hugs by Fran Manushkin illustrated by Kate Alizadeh Ref: 16639 Two adoring mums take their toddler out for a bike ride through the countryside, stopping off to enjoy wiggly worms, pick up a punnet of strawberries, take in a gazelle or two… A delightful day out from morning to bedtime, swept all over with an intimate embrace of family. 'The closeness of the family radiates from every picture- you don't need the text to explain any of it and yet those jolly little rhymes add an extra layer of warmth' (Mark, Equalities Trainer/Consultant, LL reviewer). Age 3-6, Hardback 28pp Quantity:
Polonius the Pit Pony by Richard O'Neill illustrated by Feronia Parker Thomas Ref: 16302 Polonius the Pit Pony envies the freedom of the Traveller family ponies. So, one day, he breaks out...and catches up with them! Grandad isn't convinced he'll adapt but Lucretia adopts him in a heart beat and when Daddo's new truck won't manage the journey to carry their goods to the docks, Polonius is the only pony skilled enough to brave the fog. A gentle tale of determination and (a gentle) courage, highlighting Traveller values of hard work and initiative. Based on a fascinating history (supplied in a backnote) of the use of pit ponies in British mines. By famed Romani storyteller, O'Neill. Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp Quantity:	The Princess and the Fog Ref: 2601 By an author who lives with depression, this is a beautiful picture book exploring a complex issue through the 'comfort' of a fairytale format. The story first introduces us to a princess who is happy at school, at play and at home- until, very gradually, a big swirly black fog comes into her life, slowly enveloping her, leaving her tired and sad and unable to accomplish even the easiest of tasks. Her parents try everything; they even try to erase the angry scrawl above her head with an enormous pencil rubber. It takes a special friend who is persistent in his visits and who finally gets her to talk for the fog to start to dissipate. The story ends with a series of supportive strategies suggested by friends, family and professionals. A thoughtful and empowering book for young children who are living with depression. Comes with a guide for carers. 'Very helpful for children to identify with and to understand and support others who are depressed' (June, Parent, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Wow. Supportive, empathetic and great illustrations. Helpful to all' (Rosalind, Workforce Dev. Commissioning Officer, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-7, Hardback 38pp Quantity:
Princess Arabella's Birthday Ref: 2784 It is Arabella's birthday but what do you get a princess who already has everything? Well, according to Arabella, you get her an elephant! But, the trouble with elephants is that they don't necessarily do what they're told...particularly when they're missing their home environment. What will Princess Arabella do with a mournful, weeping elephant? A delightful story with gorgeously fresh, bright and 'smudgy' illustrations, complete with nellyphant end pages! 'Fantastic illustrations, charming storyline' (Nike, Social Worker, LL reviewer). We can't get enough of this publisher, Cassava Republic. Dedicated to "changing the way we all think about African writing" they recently expanded their office base from Abuja, Nigeria to...London! Age 3-6, Paperback 26pp Quantity:	The Princess and the Castle Ref: 2616 Genevieve hates the sea. One day her dad went out to sea and never came home... So, while her imaginative play takes her on exciting journeys, she can only dream of going to the castle far away across the bay. And then along comes Cedric- is he an ogre? Or a cuddly bear? He certainly makes mum smile...And one day, he persuades Genevieve that perhaps, just perhaps, she might visit that castle after all. A hugely positive books about grief, transition and healing told, skilfully and convincingly, from a child's point of view. Binch's brilliantly realistic illustrations simply sweep across the page. This is 'real' storytelling, told with such honesty, heart and soul. 'Stunning illustrations. Powerful storytelling with emotions that can be felt throughout' (Meryl, Early Years Consultant, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 26pp Quantity:
The Princess and the Pony Ref: 2553 Debut picture book by a much-loved Canadian webcomic artist. In a land of warriors, tiny warrior princess, Princess Pinecone, is growing tired of the comfy cutesy sweaters she receives each and every birthday. This year she begs for a great strong horse. She ends up with...a tiny pony. Worse- a tiny, farting, pony. On the day of the Great Battle, Pinecone fears they won't stand a chance. But perhaps a tiny pony has disarming powers all of its own. A charming tale full of warriors of all genders and ethnicities with a more-than-endearing mixed race lead. Age 4-7, Paperback 32pp Quantity:	Pretend Friends by Alice Hoyle illustrated by Lauren Reis Ref: 14159 6-year-old Little Bea has a special pretend friend, Nye Nye, who has green wings and who is great for making mud pies and carpet-flying with. On the days Bea doesn't want to play with Nye Nye, she simply waves Bye Bye and Nye Nye disappears. Big Jay has very different pretend friends. These ones stick around whether Jay wants them to or not- and they make him feel sad and scared. A fantastically clever book which explains hallucinations caused by schizophrenia and other mental health illnesses to very young children and which also helps children think about ways adults with these hallucinations can be meaningfully supported. Very child-friendly and child-appropriate. "I love the idea of this book as I love books that tackle issues that some people will be lazy and pass off as 'it's too difficult to explain to a child'" (Josephine, teen reviewer for Letterbox Library). "An amazing book that tackles a difficult topic" (Elaine, Educational Psychologist, Letterbox Library reviewer). Comes with lots of supportive back notes. The author is an Advisory Teacher for the PSHE Association and is a member of Rethink Mental Health. Age 4-8, Hardback 36pp Quantity:
The Promise by Nicola Davies illustrated by Laura Carlin Ref: 2401 Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2014 A street thief in a "mean and hard and ugly city" nearly snatches a woman’s handbag...the woman tells the child she can have the bag if she makes a promise in return. It’s a promise she keeps and its consequences bring about her own and her environment’s transformation. A picture book which explores our relationship with nature and offers a vision of a new harmony. Ages 5-8, Paperback 38pp Quantity:	The Proudest Blue: A Story of Hijab and Family by Ibtihaj Muhammad with S. K. Ali illustrated by Hatem Aly Ref: 16263 "The first day of wearing hijab is important, Mama had said. It means being strong". It's the "first-day hijab" for Asiya. Little sister, Faizah, is very excited for her and approves of her choice of an ocean-coloured, sunny-skied blue. To Faizah's bafflement, some school children point, ask questions and throw insults. But, with great pride and love, she witnesses Asiya rises above the stares and words, with the echo of her mother's supportive voice buoying her up. (Co-) Written by an American-Muslim Olympic medallist fencer, the text is flushed through with (Egyptian-born Canadian) illustrator, Aly's luxurious, brightly coloured, ink washes. 'I had a smile on my face throughout the reading of this wonderful book. Fab storytelling, illustrations, relationships and imagery. Yes, yes, yes!!!' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, LL reviewer). A wonderful book about hijab and family. Age 4 to 7, Paperback 33pp Click here to access the teaching sequence of activities for this book from Andersen Press, designed in partnership with CLPE. Quantity:
Punk Wig by Lori Ries illustrated by Erin Eitter Kono Ref: 9941 Mum has cancer. A perfectly soothing and realistic story about a little boy's support of his mum as she goes through (a successful course of) chemotherapy. Age 6-9, American Import Hardback 29pp Quantity:	Queen of Physics by Teresa Robeson illustrated by Rebecca Huang Ref: 16708 Subtitled, 'How Wu Chien Shiung Helped Unlock the Secrets of the Atom'. All hail the first person to prove beta decay and disprove the Law of Parity. Named 'Queen of Physics' by Newsweek in 1963, those aren't even the only Firsts from Chinese physicist, Wu Chien Shiung (1912-1997). Learn about this woman's incredible discoveries and her struggle to get these achievements recognised in a patriarchal field of work. 'Never heard of her before to my shame. This is a lovely book which will be an excellent one to use in school' (Fiona, School Librarian, Letterbox Library reviewer). A very attractive production with a brilliant glossary of physics geekery. Positrons and neutrinos, anyone? Hong-Kong-Canadian author and Taiwanese illustrator. Age 6-10, Hardback 41pp £12.99 Quantity:
Quiet! Ref: 2651 A bright, bustling, book showing a child's evening and bedtime routine through auditory landmarks- the pinging of the microwave, the babbling of the TV, the rustling of (Braille) book pages turning, the splish splash of the bath, the deep quiet voice of a father singing a lullaby. Dad as primary (and possibly also the single) carer and a toddler who experiences their environment through sounds. Very inclusive and especially relatable to those who may be blind/partially sighted. (Mixed Race family) Age 3-5, Paperback 27pp Quantity:	Quill Soup by Alan Durant illustrated by Dale Blankenaar Ref: 16467 A retelling of the famous Stone Soup folktale, starring Noko the travelling porcupine and featuring a host of interesting creatures: Monkey, Meerkat, Aardvark, Warthog and Pangolin. Dedicated by the publisher to endangered animals and illustrated by a South African artist drawing on influences from Tanzinian and West African art. Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp Quantity:
The Rabbit Listened Ref: 16166 A small child builds something. It comes crashing down. He sits hunched up on the floor, forlorn and low. Creatures rush in to 'help'. The chicken suggests chatting; the bear suggests a good roar; the ostrich suggests burying their heads in the sand... all to no avail. And then, along comes a rabbit, a quiet rabbit who simply...listens! Soon Taylor is talking, laughing, shouting and, finally rebuilding. We have seen a flurry of books recently on kindness and empathy but this one really is exquisite. Celebrates the emotional art of 'active' listening and how to adopt patience and silence in the face of someone's loss or pain. An Empathy Lab choice 2020. Age 3-7, Paperback 32pp Quantity:	Rabbityness Ref: 0097 Absolutely beautiful, wonderfully original story about loss & recovery which no review can do justice to. 'Refreshingly superb' (Children's Centre Coordinator, LL reviewer) Age 3-8, Paperback 26pp Quantity:
The Recess Queen by Alexis O'Neill illustrated by Laura Huliska-Beith Ref: 1257 Mean Jean rules with a push and a lollapaloosh...until the teeny but exuberant Katie Sue crosses her path. Hugely attractive and positive. 'YES, YES- loved this! Great vocabulary, strong illustrations and a good story!' (Primary Strategy Consultant, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, American Import Hardback 29pp Quantity:	Helping Hands: Recycling! Ref: 15785 Part of a series focusing on 'real tasks', this uses conversational text as two lively children ask their parents how to sort items of recycling, which seeds to plant and the price of second hand objects. Age 2-5, Card Pages 23pp Quantity:
Ready Steady Mo Ref: 2632 "Run in your slippers, Run in your vest, Run in your onesie, Run and get dressed". An ode to running- dressed any old how, anywhere, anytime, any place...expect perhaps not in class! Rhyming text and poppingly bright pages full of children sprinting about the place, led by Little Mo and with a universal MOBOT on the final double page spread. We defy any child not to want to get active after reading this! 'Fab book that made me smile on every single page. Great rhyming, great illustrations, great ideas to get children running/exercising and enjoying books!' (Meryl, Early Years Consultant, LL reviewer). Age 3-5, Paperback 28pp Quantity:	The Red Boat Ref: 2416 Posy has just moved home and is bursting with anxieties. But a magical red boat at the bottom of the garden becomes a vehicle for some fantastic imaginative role play which soon soothes Posy's fears...A super book for exploring first time nerves and transitions as well as being, quite simply, a good story. 'Warm and humorous, this book explores a child's fears of the new and unknown' (Kate, Children's Centre Coordinator, LL reviewer); 'charming and humorous' (Primary Inclusion Manager, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp Quantity:
Riding A Donkey Backwards: Wise & Foolish Tales of Mulla Nasruddin by Sean Taylor & Khayaal Theatre illustrated by Shirin Adl Ref: 15919 Meet Mulla Nasruddin, a smart trickster, possibly based on a real-life 13th century figure and appearing in several guises across many different Muslim cultures. Both wise and foolish, brilliantly insightful and wonderfully silly, sometimes an imam, sometimes a judge, famous for riding his donkey backwards...or is he facing forwards and is it the donkey who is facing backwards?! A sprightly, snappy, fun-loving text is accompanied by witty collage pictures (Nasruddin's pointy, wispy, cotton wool beard is especially delightful). A hit with our young readers. 'Includes a lovely range of playful short stories. I really enjoyed the visual scene of different colours, textures and fabrics...a good insight into Muslim culture; helps us to learn kind values and traits' (Nicole, teen Letterbox Library reviewer). By a British-Iranian artist and an author who worked alongside Khayaal Theatre whose mission is to challenge assumptions about Islamic culture. Age 6-10, Paperback 42pp Quantity:	The Roller-Coaster Ride Ref: 16672 Vincent and Gran grab the bus to the beach. As they cross an identifiably UK landscape, from the city and past the windmill and the wetlands, Gran suggests they head straight to Funland's roller coaster, a promise which fills Vincent's head with bursts of imagination. Will they go all the way up in to space? Will they need to hang upside down like bats? But when they reach the amusement park, they're faced with an unexpected obstacle...can a Super Deluxe Magnifico ice cream possibly, just possibly, save the day? Breezily inclusive illustrations. Stars protagonists of colour; Vincent has an upper limb difference; a diverse background population includes tech-savvy older people, independent and active disabled people and same sex/gender couples. An extra nice touch on the inside cover: a pencil drawn map of the route the bus takes. 'Anticipation, disappointment and accepting change all explored positively.' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 28pp Quantity:
Roman and Iris: A Story About Bullying by Nancy Loewen illustrated by Elisa Paganelli Ref: 16779 Roman is off to summer day camp. Go-karting and playing galaxy slime is great- but, soon, another child starts to spoil his fun, staring at him, bumping in to him, taking his things away. Can Roman get the support he needs? Includes 'Next Steps' at the back, designed to help adults talk to children who are being bullied as well as those at risk of bullying others. 'I'm really impressed with how this book approaches this subject for young children. While giving lots of help and empathy for the child being bullied, it also acknowledges that the bully might need help too' (Kerry, letterbox Library Staff). Age 4-7, Paperback 21pp Quantity:	Rosa's Big Sunflower Experiment Ref: 16677 Rosa has the entire sunflower experiment under control: filling up the pots with soil, taking the seeds out of dried sunflower heads, planting up the seedlings and so on, all the way through to transferring the delicate baby shoots outside. Key science processes are identified as Rosa and her friends perfect the ideal conditions for germination. Part of a series designed to inspire a lifelong love of STEM subjects. 'What a lovely book. Great intro to STEM through nature and lots of interesting vocabulary. Clear inclusive illustrations' (Rosalind, Nursery Operations Manager, Letterbox Library reviewer). (nb: Rosa's friend, Shala, wears a wrist splint). Age 3-6, Hard cover/card pages 16pp Quantity:
Ruby's School Walk by Kathryn White illustrated by Miriam Latimer Ref: 0134 Meet a super-adventurous child who uses the school journey to chase off scary beasts. Perfect for taming monsters and for calming those going-to-school anxieties. Age 3-6, Paperback 29pp Quantity:	Ruby's Worry Ref: POR63 Ruby is a happy energetic child. Until, that is, a little blob of a worry comes to visit her. At first it's easy to dismiss but, with each passing day, the blob grows and grows. Ignoring it seems like a good strategy. And then it seems like a very poor strategy. Finally, Ruby meets another child who is also being haunted by a great big blob. And so they chat. Ad, as they do so, the most marvellous thing starts to happen...A straightforward, wonderfully executed, narrative about anxiety, mindfulness and self-help- perfectly pitched to children. Age 3-7, Paperback 29pp Quantity:
Run, Little Chaski! by Mariana Llanos illustrated by Mariana Ruiz Johnson Ref: 17095 An Inka Trail Adventure by a Peruvian author, inspired by the messenger system used by the Inka in ancient times. Little Chaski takes a message made of rope and threads from the Queen in her palace all the way to the King at the temple. There are many obstacles along the way- a pesky road-crossing chinchilla, a drowning allqu, a trapped condor. Will Little Chaski manage to deliver his message before Tayta Inti/father sun sets? A sprightly text incorporates Quechua words and, combined with illustrations inspired by Peruvian folk arts, introduce lots of fascinating regional landscapes and fauna. Typical of Barefoot Books, the backnotes provide a trove of additional knowledge: a glossary, information about the Inka, the Inka Trail and the role of chaskis/couriers; a map of the Inka Empire, an introduction to the South American animal stars of the story. 'A really charming story about Inka culture accompanied by vibrant and appealing illustrations' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Manager, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp Quantity:	Sand Between My Toes written by Caroline Cross illustrated by Jenny Duke Ref: 17036 Just a scattering of words- but each one carefully plucked and polished up in a rhyming text. Illustrations which feel so immediate and tactile- the sand seems to kick up at you and the waves drift in... A family enjoy a day in a recognisably domestic coastal scene. Beach huts, lollies, sandcastles, chips and sauce and, even, a rain shower! Our reviewers loved this. 'Such a lovely book! The sparse, rhyming text is beautifully matched with illustrations which conjure all the senses that are alive to sea, sun and sand' (Eileen, Former Primary Teacher, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'Lovely rhyming and images, lovely mixed family. Lots to observe on each page with diversity of the surrounding people on the beach' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, Letterbox Library reviewer). N.Bs: one of the child protagonists wears leg splints; blended family; mixed race family. Age 3-6, Paperback 28pp Quantity:
Sarah's Two Nativities by Janine M Fraser illustrated by Hélène Magisson Ref: 16623 Sarah's Grandma Azar tells her stories from the Holy Koran and cooks up kofte with her. Sarah's Grandma Maria tells her stories from the Bible and bakes up cupcakes with her. But the very best stories they tell Sarah are those of the nativities. A gorgeous picture book -gorgeous in text, sentiment and illustrations- which enfolds Islam and Christianity into one, warm and joyous family celebration. 'I love this book! It really exemplifies the beauty of exploring commonalities in religions. My children loved it when I read this in assembly' (Sonia, Deputy Primary Head, letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-7, Hardback 22pp Quantity:	Sardines of Love Ref: 2843 A lovely tale about grandfather Lolo and grandmother Lola and their respective love and loathing for sardines. Luminescent seascape illustrations show Lolo and Lola fishing, a gleaming lighthouse, jumping sardines and an octopus called Jeff. Grand, 'old-fashioned' storytelling with a nod to Jonah and the Whale. Age 3-6, Paperback 32pp Quantity:
The Seed of Compassion by The Dalai Lama illustrated by Bao Luu Ref: 16441 The Dalai Lama takes us from his earliest years amongst his farmer family in north-eastern Tibet -where his mum "planted in me the seed of compassion"- to his education as a monk in Lhasa where he studied 'compassion' to his founding belief: that compassion exists as a seed in every child which, with enough love, can flourish. This lovely picture book introducing some of the tenets of Tibetan Buddhism ends with the Dalai Lama telling children how they can nurture the seed of compassion within themselves. US-Vietnamese illustrator. Age 6-10, Paperback 31pp Quantity:	She Persisted Around the World 13 Women Who Changed History by Chelsea Clinton illustrated by Alexandra Boiger Ref: 15179 "All over the world, girls are more likely to be told to be quiet, to sit down, to have smaller dreams. Don't listen to those voices". A companion to the No 1 New York Times bestseller, She Persisted, which focused on inspirational N. American women, this new title looks at thirteen game changers who have changed the course of and remoulded history. Women featured are: Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz (Mexico), Caroline Herschel (Germany), Kate Sheppard (New Zealand), Marie Curie (Poland), Viola Desmond (Canada), Mary Verghese (India), Aisha Rateb (Egypt), Wangari Maathai (Kenya), Joanne Rowling (UK), Sisleide Lima do Amor (Brazil), Leymah Gbowee (Liberia), Yuan Yuan Tan (China), and Malala Yousafzai (Pakistan). Inspirational messages to children top and tail these mini bios. Great to see a disabled hero in the mix (Mary Verghese)! Bright bold artwork accompanies a positive, upbeat, energetic text. Age 7-11, Hardback American Import 31pp Quantity:
Shopping! Ref: 0108 A chatty, interactive text and merry illustrations encourage children to engage in their first 'real' tasks. Boys do housework too! Age 2-5, Paperback 23pp Quantity:	Shu Lin's Grandpa by Matt Goodfellow illustrated by Yu Rong Ref: 16558 New girl Shun Lin has just started at Dylan's school. She only speaks a little English, She wears shiny yellow wellies. She stands on the edge of the playground at breaktime and sits on her own at lunchtime with an array of tiny pots of bright food. And then one day, Shu Lin's Grandpa comes in to show the class his huge watercolour painting- complete with snarling dragon. And soon, Shu Lin is showing her classmates how to execute the best paintbrush strokes for the perfect dragon scales... A lovely story which hangs either side of an awe-inspiring centre double-gatefold spread of Grandpa's artwork. Written by a former primary school teacher, now poet and illustrated by a Chinese-UK artist. Age 4-7, Hardback 22pp Quantity:
The Silence Seeker by Ben Morley illustrated by Carl Pearce Ref: 9871 A new boy moves in next door. Mum says he's an asylum seeker. 'A Silence Seeker!' says Joe. And so begins the story of a delightful little boy who sets out to find silence for his new friend. Age 6-9, Paperback 26pp Read about this book in our article in Write4Children Journal (June 2013) Quantity:	Silver Buttons Ref: 2619 We are, quite unashamedly, huge fans of Graham. There is always splendid detail in his illustrations which capture diverse communities of people. And, again, always, he presents small, seemingly insignificant, actions or events which nevertheless have a vast, universal and unifying effect across space and time. Here, as Jodie goes to draw a silver button on her duck picture, her baby brother-Jonathan- takes his first step, just as a child avoids the cracks in the pavement outside, just as a baby is born in a hospital and a tanker heads out to China and...Jonathan stumbles forward back on to his little pink knees. Joyful, life affirming, full of humanity- and endorsed by Amnesty International UK. Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp Quantity:
Sometimes I Feel Sunny by Gillian Shields illustrated by Georgie Birkett Ref: 0098 Happy, sad and plenty of in between feelings in this lovely, child-friendly 1st picture book. 'Offers a wide vocabulary for expressing feelings' (Former EY Advisory Teacher, LL reviewer). Age 1-5, Card Pages 22pp Quantity:	Sofia Valdez, Future Prez by Andrea Beaty illustrated by David Roberts Ref: 16016 Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2020 "A dreamer. A doer. A real-life go-getter. Most people like good, but Sofia likes better". The Beaty/Roberts team find themselves on the Little Rebels Shortlist for the 3rd time! (see also Rosie Revere and Ada Twist). From her very first toddler years, Sofia has wanted to help people- from shopping for neighbours to walking their pets. And, her political-badges-toting Abuelo is always by her side, keeping a watchful eye. But when Abuelo trips and hurts himself on a pile of rubbish (Mount Trashmore) , Sofia decides to aim her acts of kindness a little higher... a project that takes her to City Hall and beyond... On being shortlisted for the Little Rebels Award 2020, Beaty said of her young activist, "Sofia understands that kindness is the beginning of all bravery." Age 4-7, Hardback 36pp Quantity:
Song of the Mekong River by Na-Mi Choi; retold by Jo Cowley illustratred by Sinae Jo Ref: 16681 An accessible synchronicity of fiction and non-fiction introduces readers to Vietnam, the Mekong River (a.k.a. 'the lifeline of Vietnam'), little Tiu and her water village. While Tiu's father is away fishing in the ocean and her mum operates the supermarket boat at the water market, Tiu and her grandmother go on Ms Trang's boat to fetch bright flowers for the family home altars. A gentle story with bright watercolours, accompanied by explanatory footnotes within the text and wonderful back notes on the landscape and culture of Vietnam. Ideal for schools; primed for an array of extension activities! 'Absolutely fascinating. I love it. Brilliant mix of photos and illustrations' (June, Parent, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp Quantity:	Snowboy and the Last Tree Standing by Hiawyn Oram illustrated by Birgitta Sif Ref: 15790 Greenbackboy wants to play a game called "K'Ching" which involves cutting down all the forest trees and catching all the ocean fishes. Can Snowboy save the day? A smart tale linking environmental destruction to monetary greed. Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp Quantity:
Stanley's Stick by John Hegley illustrated by Neal Layton Ref: 0088 Stanley is an endearing, imaginative child and Stanley's stick takes on many shapes: straight banana, Stickosaurus and slug-picker-upper. Gentle humour, plenty of nonsense and a great spoonful of fun. Fantastick. Age 4-7, Paperback 27pp Quantity:	Stella Brings the Family by Miriam B. Schiffer illustrated by Holly Clifton-Brown Ref: 2529 Stella's class is having a special Mother's Day celebration. All of the pupils has at least one mum- Howie even has two! But Stella has two Dads. A spot or two of anxiety later, Stella decides to invite not only her two dads but her nonna and uncle and aunt and cousin too! A very joyful, very lively and rather overcrowded class party follows, leaving the teacher a little frazzled. Don't worry, Stella reassures her, when it's father's day, she'll just bring the 2 guests! Which leaves Howie with a problem all of his own... A delightfully illustrated, upbeat, story which celebrates the diversity of family life. Bright fresh illustrations depict a multicultural classroom with a bunch of very happy children. 'Loved this book. Hope it's an indication of more to come' (Deborah, Lecturer in EY Education, LL reviewer). 'A great story of families and special days' (Rosalind, Workforce Dev. Officer, LL reviewer). Age 5-8 Quantity:
The Suitcase Ref: 16157 A tired, strange-looking creature arrives with his suitcase. The other creatures question his origins and his motives. But their investigations challenge their assumptions and prompt them to meaningful acts of kindness. Simple text and the barest of illustrations manage to evoke great waves of loss, compassion and, finally optimism in this story about showing care and heart to strangers. 'I actually completely and utterly loved this. The message is about empathy, overcoming suspicions and kindness' (Patrice, Children's Author, LL reviewer). 'A beautiful story with a timely but simple aim. This book makes me smile' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp Quantity:	Sunflower Sisters by Monika Singh Gangotra illustrated by Michaela Dias-Hayes Ref: 16763 Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2022 Amrita's sister, Jas, is getting married and the whole family are in full-prep mode. There are outdoor fairy lights to string up and special lehengas to be picked out. But why does Aunty keep murmuring about Amrita's and Jas' dark complexions... recommending they drink saffron and stay out of the sun? Amrita wants to stand tall and beam bright like a sunflower. Best friend, Kiki, wants to dazzle in vibrant colours as well! Will their radiance overcome their elders' prejudices? Age 4-8, Paperback 27pp Click here to download reading and discussion guide. Quantity:
Superhero Hotel by Abie Longstaff illustrated by Migy Blanco Ref: 2798 Captain Power needs his batteries recharging; Gadget Girl needs her Mega Grabber tool cleaning up; Ice Woman needs a frozen splinter removing; The Flame needs her Blaze Boots re-heeling and Mr Invisible...well, he just wants a little rest, incognito. Luckily, Joe Malone is on hand with his Superhero Hotel, designed to cater to everyone's needs. But with so many superpowers around and with so much time on their hands, things won't stay calm for long... High octane fun with a refreshing gender mix of superheroes, including the Afro-sporting, icebolt-firing, Ice Woman. Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp Quantity:	That's NOT How You Do It! Ref: 2661 Lucy is pretty sure she knows it all. After all, everyone else comes to her for help. Lucy knows how to fold perfect stars, how to eat with a knife and fork... she's got it covered! Bu then Toshi arrives from "far away" with his chopsticks and his weird music and his yoga poses and his strange origami skills.Lucy is fit to burst with frustration- but then, a simple act of kindness opens her eyes and widens her horizons. An easy, simple tale about respect and 'difference'. 'What a lovely book- simply told but with such a powerful message and learning statement' (Elaine, Ed. Psychologist, Letterbox reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 27pp Quantity:
Talking Is Not My Thing Ref: 16462 Brought to you by the creator of Me and My Sister (also on this website). Two siblings introduce us to their daily ups and downs- this time from the main perspective of the sister, who is also autistic. She doesn't chat much and she sometimes wishes she could switch her ears off from all that noise. But she also is a deft hand at using flashcards, happy bunny dancing and at the drawing-guessing games. Meantime, her brother is very good at guessing and at... finding lost bunnies. Great portrayal of a non-verbal neurodiverse character. 'Really nicely done. Shows equality between the siblings and I love the relationship and communication. Well balanced and doesn't engender pity. Just shows a different way of being' (Beth, Inclusive Minds Founder & Parent, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 3-7, Hardback 29pp Quantity:	The Taxing Case of the Cows by I. Van Rynbach & P. D. Shea illustrated by E. A. McCully Ref: 11526 A brilliant suffragette vignette from the 1860s. The little known, true, story of the Smith Sisters, their herd of cows and their fight for women's votes. Fascinating, fresh and funny. Age 7-10, Hardback 27pp Quantity:
This Is Our House by Michael Rosen illustrated by Bob Graham Ref: 5968 "This house isn't for girls" begins George. In this charming story of discrimination overcome, a small group of friends find a way to include each other and share. Age 3-7, Paperback 26pp Read about this book in our article in Write4Children Journal (June 2013) Quantity:	Tilly's At Home Holiday Ref: 2417 It is extremely rare to find children's books which represent families who aren't well off or which nod to socio-economic status at all. It is perfectly implied in this story as it presents a situation which a great many families will relate to. Tilly's school friends are all excited about the holidays they're taking with their families both at home and abroad, but her own (single parent) mum doesn't seem to have any such plans lined up...the suitcase is simply gathering dust, just as it always does... But then, Tilly's At Home Holiday begins and it is an absolute whirl of treats and adventures including breakfast in bed, fighting dragons (in the library), taking cover from ferocious beasties (in the local park), genie's lamps (at the market) and camping with blankies and hot cocoa (indoors). A lovely celebration of family, time spent together and, indeed, what a local neighbourhood can offer in the way of free entertainment! (Casual images of disabled characters included). Age 3-6, Paperback 29pp Quantity:
Timid Ref: 17205 Timmy is a genius performer. Their costumes sparkle, their singing is pitch perfect; they are totally stage-ready. Except...they're not... quite yet. Stalked by a shy inner lion, Timmy thinks they'll never get to tread the boards. But then, classmate Nia rocks up with her Fashion. Together, they learn strategies to still their wobbles and, together, they stage a show which roars and dazzles. A fantastic story about overcoming shyness, this is also hugely refreshing for starring a child free of gendered pronouns. Woodgate's illustrations are so rich, flourishing with swishes and shimmers. There are also plenty of Woodgate's trademark, charming, illustrative nods, such as the iconic Pride colours on Nia's school bag badges and in the bunting which travels and flutters through the spreads. From the 2023 British Book Awards winner of the Children's Illustrated Book of the Year (for Grandad's Camper, available here). Non-binary UK author. Age 4-7, Paperback 27pp Quantity:	Today I'm Strong by Nadiya Hussain illustrated by Ella Bailey Ref: 16783 [Yes, it's that Nadiya Hussian- the Great British Bake Off star]. "Today I found my voice. You showed me it was hiding inside of me all the time". A perfectly child-centred picture book which goes beyond the usual anti-bullying books we see in its subtle approach. Told in a first person narrative, this child loves some of her days at school but finds others harder. Another child stares at her, laughs at her and blocks her way. The protagonist knows this is wrong but needs to find her voice…and then she does exactly that and entirely through her own reflection, resolve and self-determination. Age 4-7, Paperback 24pp Quantity:
To Market! To Market! by Anushka Ravishankar illustrated by Emanuele Scanziani Ref: 9222b Sunday Times UK Children's Book of the Week "Tutti tutti tutti I'm a fruity kind of dish. Thumping Thumping Thumping I'm a jumping kind of fish". An exuberant tribute to the vibrancy of an Indian market by an author described as a pioneer of the nonsense rhyme genre. Word repetition, rhythm and rhyme- along with some of the finest illustrations around. A feast for the eyes and ears! Perfect for holding up. Age 4-8, Indian Import Paperback 22pp Quantity:	Tom's Sunflower by Hilary Robinson illustrated by Mandy Stanley Ref: 2709 The children are busy turning the class into a bright sparkly theatre, inspired by Amber and Skye's travelling theatre lifestyle, since it's their turn for 'Show and Tell'. All the children muck in- except for quiet, tearful Hana, who has recently found out that her parents are splitting up. But Mr Davis is on hand with a comforting story which he shares with the class about another child whose parents separated, who came gradually to see that it wasn't his fault...a child who grew up strong and resilient and then grew all the way up to be...Mr Davis himself! Another spot-on, sensitive, gently humorous book for children from the Copper Tree series; makes you glow from the inside. Nice representation of Traveller children (Amber and Skye) and stars Barnie again (who wears a hearing aid). Age 4-7, Paperback 26pp Quantity:
Tomorrow Ref: 15462 Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2019 Yazan is a small child bewildered by the changes around him- his mother has stopped painting, the news blasts out of the TV set constantly, school has mysteriously ended and the days, mostly spent indoors, are becoming yawningly monotonous. But then, one day, without permission, Yazan leaves the house- only to be confronted by a dramatically unfamiliar landscape... A stark, sparse text captures a child's unique perspective on a country at war. "A beautiful picture-book full of heart, and not without hope, set against the backdrop of the Syrian war" (Catherine Barter, reviewing for the Little Rebels Award website). Age 4-8, Hardback 25pp Quantity:	Trudy & Me by Bridget Campbell with photography by Jo Tenant Ref: 17311 "So, if you meet someone 'different' And don't know what to say, Why not smile and sign hello And Make a friend that day." Patrick introduces his younger sibling, Trudy, who has Down's Syndrome. Sometimes he explains a little, but mostly he simply celebrates her agency. Trudy bangs away on the xylophone, flies down slides, relishes beach mud and sooooars on her swing. Her play is noisy, effervescent and inspires a smile so wide it travels on to the book's cover title as well as the page numbers. Trudy perhaps doesn't yet walk but she's a "supertastic shuffler"; she doesn't yet talk but her family are "all talking with our hands". An endearing and very floppy-eared bunny is always by her side (a backnote encourages readers to do a bunny count!) as is Patrick, occasionally supporting her play (e.g. helping her to dance standing up), more often simply joining in. Inspired by her friend's children, the author has created a rhyming, rhythmic picture book which will resonate with many families. It's also an honest book which recognises children's curiosity and addresses their questions head on though a brilliant Q&A at the back- alongside several other resources. This bookseller appreciates that not a single page is wasted, right through to the end pages with photos of the 'real' Trudy and Patrick. Age 3-7, Hardback 36pp Quantity:
The Truth about Old People Ref: 17126 "Some people say old people are...slow, not bendy, scared of new things and quiet...But I know the truth about old people." Told in the voice of a joyful grandchild, a book which counters lazy stereotypes about our elders and does so with a whoop and a cheer! Age 4-7, Paperback 23pp Quantity:	Two Giants Ref: 2622 First published in 1967 by a (now) big name author, back as a brand new edition- and it hasn't dated at all! Two giants live in an idyllic world with a beautiful landscape and beautiful climate. And then one day, they both spot a pink shell- and both want to own it. An argument becomes a fight becomes rock-throwing...with consequences for their once perfect world. A seemingly uncomplicated tale which can be used to explore lots of very big themes connected with transitions and change: friendships broken and reformed, peace & conflict and even, very simply, the changing weather and seasons. Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp Quantity:
Uncle Bobby's Wedding by Sarah S. Brannen illustrated by Lucia Soto Ref: 16880 Bobby is Chloe's favourite uncle. He knows the names of all the stars and he's taken her right to the top of a lighthouse. But, at their first family picnic that summer, Bobby has an announcement to make: he and Jamie are getting married. Married! Moving in together! How can Chloe be sure her and Uncle Bobby can still have fun together? Can Jamie bring anything to the table? A delightful little story about a child learning to adjust to change which also centres a same-sex wedding. Lovely end pages dotted with rainbow flags, glitter balls and wedding iconography. For those of us who can remember the original (now out of print) 2008 Uncle Bobby's Wedding starring a cast of..guinea pigs...and for those of us who feel a little tired of quite how often picture books resort to anthropomorphism when portraying same-sex couples, this 2021 version is a very welcome update! Author Brennen has tweaked her original text and Soto's cartoon-esque illustrations have brought in a vibrant and an entirely human cast. (Bobby is White and Jamie is a person of colour; the protagonist is also mixed race). Age 4-7, Paperback 24pp Quantity:	The Undefeated by Kwame Alexander illustrated by Kadir Nelson Ref: 15987 Winner Caldecott Medal 2020 It is a hard task to add anything more to the very many glowing reviews of The Undefeated which have appeared online and in print. This really is a magical pairing- matching up the multi-award-winning illustrator, Kadir Nelson, whose rich, heady, paintings are exhibited in major institutions and collections with the similarly, award-winning, Kwame Alexander: novelist, educator and a poet who manipulates words into explosions of energy. As Kwame says, this extended poem is a hymn to 'the dreamers and doers', inspired by the inauguration of Barack Obama and his wish to show his young daughter how they had reached that moment in North American history. Sparse and exacting words and sweepingly 'generous' illustrations which feel barely contained by the pages leap across famous figures and events from N. American Black History, culminating in an ode and a triumphant legacy: "This is for the undefeated. This is for you. And you. And you. This is for us". Age 7+, Paperback 36pp Quantity:
Up and Down Mum Ref: 16326 A child introduces her 'Up and Down Mum', both on top of the world and, sometimes, crushed by it; a fabulous, spaghetti-making Mum one day, a stay-in-bed Mum the next day; sometimes she is a brilliant, roaring make believe dragon and also, sometimes, she needs to go away somewhere quiet...on those days, Grandad comes to stay. A very clever, authentic book which spills over with the unconditional love of a child for her parent- and vice versa! Developed in consultation with families who have a parent with bipolar disorder and created in collaboration with The Wellcome Trust. Great backnotes on BPD. 'Strong on the positive relationship between child and parent. Includes themes of seeking help, managing a long term condition, changes in care/family arrangements which would be useful to a range of children/families' (Anna, Social Worker/Therapist/Disability Advisor/living with bipolar, reviewing for Letterbox Library). 'I think this book is great. We have a child at school who I know has expressed some of these feelings about her own mother who has BPD & this is the sort of book that would really support her, especially as it's 'real' about some of the aspects that the child finds difficult' (Edyta, Primary Teacher, Letterbox Library Reviewer). Age 4-7 Paperback 30pp Quantity:	Welcome Ref: 2686 A band of polar bear are happily playing about on the ice until- yikes! crack! -three bears float off on iceberg. As their tiny floating ice boat shrinks, they become more and more desperate for a safe place to land but with each passing island, they are rejected: the cows declare them too furry, the pandas say there are too many of them, the giraffes prefer to turn away... will they ever find sanctuary? A perfect book for introducing two topical themes to the very young: asylum and global warming. 'So important to have as much a range as possible of books that explore themes of displacement, exclusion, hospitality and social responsibility...a great conversation starter' (Farrah, Learning Programme Leader at Centre for Literacy in Primary Education, LL reviewer). 'A gentle and beautiful look at an important and topical theme' (Elena, Community Librarian, LL reviewer). Age 3-6, Paperback 24pp Quantity:
We're Going on a Lion Hunt Ref: 7851 Two intrepid sisters set out on their adventure. Told in simple repeating text with plenty of sound words (squish, squelch, squish, squelch) a fun retelling of a traditional tale. Age 3-6, 28pp Paperback Quantity:	We're Going to Find the Monster! by Malorie Blackman illustrated by Dapo Adeola Ref: 16457 What a team! Former children's laureate and all-round-children's-literature superstar, Malorie Blackman, paired with recently appointed (Sep 2021) Booktrust artist-in-residence, Dapo Adeola. Armed with pilot goggles, saucepan helmet and a wooden spoon, Charlie and Eddie set off, boldly and brazenly, to unearth the monster from its lair. There are mountains to climb, oceans to traverse and nail biting encounters with foamy fiends, tummy-rumbling wolves and fierce tigers. A perfectly domestic, family adventure culminating in a breakfast of yummies and a mass tickle-pile-on! (Protagonist has vitiligo). Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp Quantity:
We Shall Overcome by Debbie Levy by Vanessa Brantley-Newton Ref: 2503 From the song's roots in America's era of slavery through the civil rights movement of the 1960s to today, "We Shall Overcome" has come to represent the fight for equality and freedom around the world. This important book, lyrically written by Debbie Levy and paired with elegant, collage-style art by Vanessa Brantley-Newton, pays tribute to the heroic spirit of the famous song that encompasses American history. Age 7-11, Hardback 29pp Quantity:	What a Wonderful World + Music CD based on the song by B. Thiele & G. D. Weiss, as sung by Louis Armstrong illustrated by Tim Hopgood Ref: 2792 Based on the lyrics of the song made world-famous by Louis Armstrong. A child basks in the delights of the natural world and wonders at the magic of humanity. The illustrator was inspired to do this book by a memory of learning the song while he was at school. Comes with a CD with the song performed by Armstrong himself. 'What a joyful and beautifully illustrated book' (Carey, Childminder, Letterbox Library reviewer.) Age 2-7, Paperback + CD 28pp Quantity:
What the Jackdaw Saw by Julia Donaldson illustrated by Nick Sharratt Ref: 2539 A lively jackdaw swoops over different landscapes-sea, woodland, fields and town- inviting all sorts of related animals-octopi, piglets and ferrets- to his party...but no one seems to understand him! What's going on? A clever rhyming, rhythmic book about friendship, with some BSL signs to learn along the way! Written by a former Children's Laureate (who herself has a hearing impairment) and with deaf children via the charity Life & Deaf. Age 2-5, Paperback 26pp Quantity:	What Happened to You? by James Catchpole illustrated by Karen George Ref: 16732 Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2022 Joe is playing pirates in the playground. The sharks are being pretty pesky, but at least they're not as bothersome as the other children are with all of their silly questions: "You've only got one leg! What happened?" "Did it fall off in the toilet?" "Was it a lion?" Joe doesn't feel like answering their questions. And he certainly doesn't feel like telling "that" story. Thankfully, Simone is suddenly distracted by a crocodile and then some sharks and, before long, all of the children are busy being fearsome pirates...and making new friends! A flawless picture book whose disabled protagonist has full agency and self-determination. Joe's challenges and, in particular, his decisions to answer questions as and when he wants to feel exceptionally empowering. All this is balanced with an honesty abut children's curiosity and forthrightness and conveyed with a great deal of humour. Witty and thoughtful, this truly is empathy on the page! Described by the author as a story he wanted to write to his younger self. 'This book really makes you think about how Joe must feel every time he is asked what happened to him. It shows in the way he responds verbally and in his body language' (Rosalind, Project Dev. Mgr.- PACEY, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp Click here to download reading and discussion guide. Quantity:
When a Dragon Comes to Stay by Caryl Hart illustrated by Rosalind Beardshaw Ref: 16551 When a dragon comes to stay, does she smatch the toys? Or burp on her fairy cakes? Or pout at bedtime? Well, no. Even if she finds them a little tricky, she tries her bestest to show her bestest manners. A 'good manners for little dragons' book which is a huge step away form being 'preachy' and a huge step towards being upbeat and positive. 'Good story about positive behaviours, expectations of team work. Explains how we have choices in how we behave' (Ann Marie, Early Years Safeguarding Consultant, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 29pp Quantity:	When Grandpa Gives You a Tool Box by Jamie L. B. Deenihan illusrated by Lorriane Rocha Ref: 16816 What should you do if, on your birthday, you asked for a special house for your dolls...and Grandpa gives you a toolbox?! It's quite a dilemma. But this narrative goes on to suggest a solution, starting with listening to Grandpa's toolbox stories (however long they are), teaming up together on some local neighbourhood repairs (toolbox in hand) until finally... you get to the most purposeful toolbox task of all: building your own special dollhouse! (With grandpa of course). A gorgeous story starring a kind thoughtful boy who is prepared to compromise (so long as he ends up with what he wants!) 'A lovely message of intergenerational co-operation, learning and love' (Elaine, Foster Care Associates Liaison Officer, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 4-7, Hardback 24pp Quantity:
When We Grow Up:: A First Book of Jobs Ref: 17306 "When we grow up…what can we be?" This is the launch pad for a simple introduction into a wide range of jobs from firefighters to programmers via mechanics, builders and teachers. Each job is located clearly in the workplace with word labels to introduce the basic tools of each trade. Children are encouraged to imagine themselves in all sorts of jobs and traditional gender barriers crumble away in the face of female mechanics and male dancers. The inside double page spread of children's faces are transformed at the back as each one is headed up with a job title. 'Good clear questions. Explanations and ideas for children to explore. Good that girls and or boys can do any job. Lovely range of skin tones and hair styles to identify with' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, Letterbox Library reviewer). (nb: wheelchair user vet and musician). Age 3-6, Paperback 24pp Quantity:	When We Say Black Lives Matter Ref: 17122 "Darling, when we sing that Black Lives Matter, and we're dancing through the streets, we're saying: fear will not destroy our joy, defiance in our feet". From whispering the past to bellowing in the streets to laughing -on the inside- with ancestors, a wonderfully lyrical unthreading and expansion of the phrase, 'Black Lives Matter'. Accompanied by swirling illustrations which move across and beyond the pages. 'A nice way to unpick a slogan that has been key to amplifying a movement...I like the way it dances between the past and the present to relay the historical significance' (Farrah, CLPE Learning Programme Leader, Letterbox Library Reviewer).'I absolutely loved it... I love the lyricism of it and feel it's a book that is honest without traumatising Black children' (Patrice, Children's/YA author, LL reviewer). Age 4-8, Paperback 31pp Quantity:
Where Are You, Sun Bear? by Eun-mi Choi; retold by Joy Cowley illustrated by Seong-bin Noh Ref: 2576 An intrepid child sets out to find the sun bear within a forest landscape threatened by the destruction wreaked by human beings. A unique story set amongst the Iban tribe in 'Asia's Amazon', a dense forest in Malaysia. Interweaves an important environmental tale with indigenous storytelling and mythology incorporating forest fairies and a display of Amazonian wildlife (hornbills, tapirs, etc.) Truly excellent backnotes on Malaysia and the wider environmental context. A perfect schools resource. 'Worth buying for the amazing illustrations alone' (Maggie, EY Advisory Teacher, Letterbox reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp Quantity:	Where Did You Go Today? Ref: 16114 A day in the park (with a male carer) becomes a seamless journey in to other worlds- the slide swooshes a child down a snowy mountain slope; a roundabout swirls her a distant island; a zip wire speeds her into a jungle. A perfect tribute to imaginative play. 'It will encourage vocabulary and imagination and inventiveness. A simple book which lends itself to sharing ideas and activities. My granddaughter loved it- she flew over the trees many, many times!' ((Elaine, Foster Care Associates Liaison Officer, LL reviewer) (Suggested single parent/separated parents family- day out at park is with a male carer who brings the child back to a female adult; 'casual', secondary character, disability images including hearing aid + wheelchair users). Age 2-5, Paperback 30pp Quantity:
Where the Winds Meet by Mi-hwa Joo; retold by Joy Cowley illustrated by Oh Lee Ref: 2579 Set amidst the grasslands and deserts of Mongolia, this lilting narrative is told from the perspective of the great sweeping Mongolian wind! A simple text but with footnotes and backnotes which give the book many more layers and a more complex understanding of Mongolian life and culture. Bridges storytelling and non-fiction. 'I love everything about this book. The use of viewpoint, the figurative language and the illustrations are a powerful combination. The teaching possibilities are endless' (Sonia, Deputy Primary Head, Letterbox reviewer). Age 5-9, Paperback 30pp Quantity:	Year of the Jungle: Memories of the Home Front by Suzanne Collins illustrated by James Proimos Ref: 0248 "My dad has to go to something called a war. He will be gone a year. How long is a year?" The author of The Hunger Games turns her hand to a deeply moving story from a child's perspective as her father goes to war. Child-friendly illustrations bring a delicate lightness of touch. 'Deceptively simple text conveys much unsaid but deeply felt' (Eileen, Former Teacher, LL reviewer). 'Brilliant in so many ways' (Jayne, Primary Inclusion Manager, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Hardback 38pp Quantity:
Yokki and the Parno Gry by Richard O’Neill & Katharine Quarmby illustrated by Marieke Nelissen Ref: 16298 A lovely story embracing a Traveller family's life, the rhythms of their work, fairs and journeys, all in harmony with the passing seasons. When times are lean, the young Yokki is there to bring cheer to his community through fireside stories of the mythical, gleaming white, horse, the Parno Gry. Some welcome insight into one Traveller community's life, told by a Romani storyteller (O'Neill), wrapped up in a wonderful folk story- a scattering of authentic dialect (see inside page for glossary) just completes it. 'A story told with warmth with beautiful illustrations...subtle themes of the challenges Romani people face and how technology affects their way of life' (Darren,Teacher & Higher Ed. Tutor, LL reviewer). 'Really liked the descriptions of family life and also the discussion of challenges of lack of employment, finding suitable land etc.' (Hannah, Social Worker, LL reviewer). Age 4-7, Paperback 28pp Quantity:	You Can! by Alexandra Strick illustrated by Steve Antony Ref: 16528 The ultimate child positivity book. Confidence building doesn't come with more weather-proof book bricks than this! Follow 14 children from different backgrounds, growing in to their very different identities as they stride forwards from babies to young children, then teens, then adults. Every double page spread is a booster: "You can...follow the crowd or...lead the way. Dream BIG"; "You can... do something big by doing something small". The book's conception is thoroughly unique. Several years were spent consulting with children and young people and asking them directly what they would tell their younger selves in order to equip them for and fire them up about their future lives. Inclusive to the core, the book portrays a wide range of ethnicities, disabilities (including a child with restricted growth and a child with a cleft lip) and identities (including gender identities). 'Loved this book's size, shape and most of all its illustrations which I feel speak for themselves. Great message' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, Letterbox Library reviewer). Age 3-6, Hardback 40pp Quantity:
You're So Amazing! by James & Lucy Catchpole illustrated by Karen George Ref: 17267 "Sometimes, being Joe felt like being in The Joe Show. And Joe didn't want to be in The Joe Show". By the team who brought you the brilliant, 'What Happened to You?' Joe is back with friend, Simone, doing pirate grudge fights in the playground, a game which is quickly deflated by the response of an onlooker who calls out, "Amazing!" Joes knows he's amazing. He just wonders why everyone feels the need to keep calling him amazing (and brave and inspiring) whenever he does... well, really almost anything, from hanging on monkey bars to scratching his bottom. Simone and Joe just wish everyone would pipe down so they can get back to Doctor Crokchops Vs Señor Sharkface. Will Joe find a space where he's neither Amazing Joe nor Poor Joe? Another smart, savvy and pointed challenge to the assumptions made and the narratives told 'about' disabled people. Again, all relayed with the utmost humour and with illustrations which really nail the gamut of young children's facial expressions. Comes with a nice little knowing reference to one of the author's previous incarnations as an amputee footballer. As the authors say, 'Most stories told about disabled people involve either tragedy and pity, or inspiration and triumph...For a disabled child this can be confusing. It can take a conscious effort to let it be otherwise: to let it be normal. But disability is normal. And disabled children will have their own - normal- stories, if we let them'. Age 4-7, Paperback 30pp Quantity:	You Need to Chill! by Juno Dawson illustrated by Laura Hughes Ref: 17179 Shortlisted Little Rebels Award 2023 Bill's sister is tired. Tired of all of the silly questions her classmates are asking about her sibling: "Is he lost in the park?" "Was he eaten by a shark?" "Was he taken to Mars by aliens?" Frustrated by their hysteria, she keeps replying, "Hun, you need to chill". Until, finally, she gives them the answer they've been waiting for. Her sibling has transitioned but she is still just as clever, funny, cool and brill. The final double spread of the protagonist and her classmates holding peace-loving and kindness banners is a delight. As the cover states, this is 'A Story About Love'. "I love the message. I foresee lots of fun to be had with everyone repeating the title very loudly!" (Mark Jennett, Equalities Trainer/Consultant, LL reviewer). "Wow, I loved this! Love the illustrations. So much to see/to spot/to discuss. Fun throughout. So supportive for all without preaching" (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, Letterbox Library reviewer). Includes a lovely incidental portrayal of a child with a prosthetic limb. Age 4-7, Paperback 27pp Click here to download reading and discussion guide. Quantity:
Zeki Can Swim by Anna McQuinn illustrated by Ruth Hearson Ref: 2604 Zeki is back...and this time, Dad has taken him to the pool! Swim nappy on, this little fish is all ready for the toddler/parent swim class with its kicking, splishy splashy sing-along and water piggybacks!. 'I loved this book! Lovely topic, lovely families, lovely images, just lovely! Rich diversity on every page' (Meryl, EY Consultant, LL reviewer). 'A feel good book. Very multicultural with bold bright coloured illustrations' (Ann Marie, EY Safeguarding Consultant, LL reviewer). Also, lovely to see that one of Zeki's little friends has a shortened arm. Age 2-5, Card Pages 18pp Quantity:	Zeki Gets a Checkup by Anna McQuinn illustrated by Ruth Hearson Ref: 2837 Zeki stars in his 3rd picture book (see Zeki Loves Baby Club and Zeki Can Swim) and how he has grown! He can drink from his own cup now, get Spag Bol all round his own face and engage in independent play, including his very own boogie wiggle. But today is the day of his full check up, so it is time to show off all of his new skills to the doctor and receive his own MOT, toddler-style! A very reassuring and thoroughly realistic book which goes through all of the medical checks a toddler will face- from eye checks to immunisation jabs- and, of course, the ultimate reward: a sticker and a book to take back home. Another very successful outing for the never-gets-any-less-cute Zeki and his dad. 'Delightful in every way. Familiar scenarios for children to identify with on every page. Wonderful illustrations with so much to discuss' (Meryl, EY Consultant & Trainer, Letterbox reviewer). 'A lovely book about a visit to the clinic. Great to see dad taking child. Very positive, focusing on all the things Zeki can do. Fun illustrations' (Rosalind, Workforce dev. Officer, Letterbox reviewer). Age Birth to 3 Card pages 20pp Quantity:
Zeki Goes to the Park by Anna McQuinn illustrated by Ruth Hearson Ref: 17231 All the fun of the park: giddy-upping on horsey spring riders; whooshing in bucket swings; stompy-splashing over water fountains. Zeki is back with his usual bounce, now joined by friend, Yu, in an invigorating day at the park. Energetic text and a bold palette turn a local urban park into a multi-sensory adventure. McQuinn & Hearson are, as ever, perfectly tuned in to the rhythms, phrasings and cadences of a toddler's immediate world. Age 10 months-3yrs, Card pages 18pp Quantity:	Zeki Loves Baby Club by Anna McQuinn illustrated by Ruth Hearson Ref: 2461 Lulu's brother, Zeki, stars in his very own story! Zeki loves Wednesdays. Wednesdays are Baby Club days which means singing the happy song and the stretchy song, wiggling and zooooooommming, making friends and cuddling. A super-bubbly and joyful parent and baby group, portrayed through warm illustrations which bounce with primary colours. Includes fabulous extension activities: the words to lots of baby time songs (If You're Happy, Peek a Boo!, Shake the Sillies); notes for carers about reading and language acquisition; a host of online resources such as videos featuring singstar babies and audio tracks at www.alannabooks.com- (scroll to 'Zeki's Baby Club'). Age Birth to 3, Card Pages 23pp Quantity:
Zeki Loves Daddy by Anna McQuinn illustrated by Ruth Hearson Ref: 17015 Zeki wakes with a tummy tickle from Dad. A fun-packed day follows. From helping Dad whisk up the pancake batter to doubling up on the dippiest of dances to speedy cycling to, finally, Dad's special bubbliest of baths and snuggliest of hugs. The pairing of McQuinn and Hearson never fails to delight and impress- their words and pictures tease and play off each other with energy and charm. Made of durable card pages and handy-sized, this is a book to share, hold and hug. 'So good to see a dad involved in all aspects of a child's day, active, caring, reading, cooking. Great rhymes and illustrations. Fun finding the seahorses in every page' (Rosalind, Project Dev. Mgr., PACEY, Letterbox Library reviewer). Type 'Zeki' into our keyword search to find all of the other Zeki books we stock! Age 10 months-3yrs, Card pages 18pp Quantity:	Zeki Loves Mummy by Anna McQuinn illustrated by Ruth Hearson Ref: 17013 Zeki wakes with a giggle at a big Mummy smile. And then... a day of bright activity begins with building dens, baby gym bounces, zipping along on a bike, splashing artwork, finally winding down with fluffy towels and comfy mummy hugs. The pairing of McQuinn and Hearson never fails to delight and impress- the words and pictures tease and play off each other with energy and charm. Made of durable card pages and handy-sized, this is a book to share, hold and hug. 'Very sweet book and a great range of activities. Easy to share' (Deborah, Lecturer in EY Education, Letterbox Library reviewer). Type 'Zeki' into our keyword search to find all of the other Zeki books we stock! Age 10 months-3yrs, Card pages 18pp Quantity:
Zeki Rise and Shine by Anna McQuinn illustrated by Ruth Hearson Ref: 17010 Alongside Zeki Sleep Tight, these are lush additions to the Zeki series and the very best of book friends to start and end a toddler's busy day. McQuinn's text is a pleasure to read aloud. Phrases pop, snap and surprise as Zeki bursts into the day: he doesn't dress; he "shimmies" into his clothes; he doesn't wake up; he "shakes" awake. Hearson's snuggle-soft illustrations journey through the book, the "lemon-yellow sun" carrying through to the bright yellows of Zeki's jelly shoes, his bib and his puppet duck. 'Delightful. A happy-jolly story with family fun. Fab colours and illustrations' (Ann Marie, EY Safeguarding Consultant, Letterbox Library reviewer). Type 'Zeki' into our keyword search to find all of the other Zeki books we stock! Age 10 months-3yrs, Card pages 18pp Quantity:	Zeki Sleep Tight by Anna McQuinn illustrated by Ruth Hearson Ref: 17008 Alongside Zeki Rise and Shine, these are lush additions to the Zeki series and the very best of book friends to start and end a toddler's busy day! Flow along with Zeki's night time routine and then watch him burst into the next morning. McQuinn's text is a pleasure to read aloud. Phrases pop, snap and surprise: Zeki's bubble bath is a soaking in "smells of dark forests"; a bedtime book is a "dozy story". Hearson's snuggle-soft illustrations journey through the book with animal toys and motifs travelling through the pages. A smiley snail is first a pull along toy and then dangles from Zeki's crib mobile. A fluffy sheep flops on the floor and ends up in a special Zeki spoon on the final page. 'This has got lots of things children would relate to while also using some imaginative language and imagery. I loved the sleeping owls!' (Deborah, Lecturer in EY Education, Letterbox Library reviewer). Type 'Zeki' into our keyword search to find all of the other Zeki books we stock! Age 10 months-3yrs, Card pages 18pp Quantity:

Picture Books

#Goldilocks: A Hashtag Cautionary Tale

15 Things Not to Do With a Baby

15 Things Not to Do With a Granny

Ada Twist, Scientist

A Bear Hug at Bedtime

A Beginner's Guide to Bearspotting

A Farmer's Life + QR Code

Alfie

Aalfred and Aalbert

Abdul's Lazy Sons

All Are Welcome

Amazing

The Ammuchi Puchi

Anansi and the Sheep

And Tango Makes Three

Anna Hibiscus' Song

Astro Girl

Azzi In Between

Baby Goes to Market

Baking With Dad

Barefoot Books Children of the World

Bathe the Cat

Bea by the Sea

Best Friends, Busy Friends

The Biggest Story

Billy and the Dragon

Black Dog

The Blue Bird's Palace

Bodies Are Cool

The Boys

The Boy Who Lost His Bumble

The Boy Who Loved Everyone

Brodie

Calvin

The Can Caravan

A Child Like You

Clean It!

Clean Up!

The Cloud

Coming to England

Confessions of a Former Bully

Cook It!

The Colour Thief

Corey's Rock

Covered in Adventures

Crescent Moons and Pointed Minarets: A Muslim Book of Shapes

The Crow's Tale

Dad's Favourite Cookie

Dare

Dave and the Tooth Fairy

A Day in the Life of Marlon Bundo

The Day War Came

Desmond and the Very Mean Word

Dinosaur Rap

Dogs Don't Do Ballet

Each Kindness

Equal To Everything: Judge Brenda and the Supreme Court

Errol's Garden

Everybody Has a Body

Farmer Falgu Goes to the Kumbh Mela

Fearless: The Story of Daphne Caruana Galizia

First Time: Big Day Out

First Time: Dentist

First Time: Doctor

First Time: Hospital

First Time: Nursery

First Time: School

First Time: Vet

The 5 Misfits

Fix It!

Freddie and the Fairy

The Frog's Kiss

The Girls

Grace and Family

Grandad's Camper

Grandad's Pride

Grandma

Granny Came Here on the Empire Windrush

The Great Big Book of Families