by Trish Cooke
illustrated by Ken Wilson-Max
 
The sun is out, the skies are blue and Mum and Kiona are playing catch with a bright yellow ball. But the ball is too big for Kiona’s arms. Would something smaller, like a berry, work better? No. Something more ‘medium’, like an apple? No. Can she catch anything at all? A balloon? Water? An ice cream? Bathtime bubbles? 
 
Luckily, Mum comes up with something just right for Kiona to catch. It's neither too big, nor too small; neither too hard, nor too soft. What could it be? A fun story of parent and child at play with the most tender ending. Wilson Max’s primary colour palette with bold, thick outlines bring extra brilliance. 
 
Lots of size and texture words for early years. Repetition with moments of cumulative text. ‘Positive story about a child exploring touch, play and textures’ (Ann Marie, EY Safeguarding Consultant, Letterbox Library reviewer). 'I love the relationship between the mother and child, the patience and reassurance as a counter to Kiona’s frustration’ (Patrice, Children's Author, Letterbox Library reviewer). [Single parent Black family]. 1st published in 2003. Age 2-6, Paperback 30pp
 
Themes: Diverse Families