Early Book Review: How to Catch a Monster by Adam Wallace

How to Catch a Monster by Adam Wallace is a picturebook currently scheduled for release on September 1 2017. The book is about a young boy emboldened by his karate class and ready to face the monster in his closet. He plans on trapping and scaring the monster that has scared him so many times. However, once he succeeds he discovers that the monster's intentions are not what he expected.

How to Catch a Monster is a book that encourages young readers to face their fears head on, and shows them that things they do not understand might be scary, but are not always worthy of fear. Once our character captures his monster he discovers that the monster just wanted a friend- and it is hard to play with someone who is asleep. So, all the scary wake ups were simply attempts to be friends. Once he gets to know the monster, and his family, he is no longer afraid and has a new friend. I think this is valuable lesson both in learning about the unknown and facing fears. Taking the time to understand things that scare you often makes them less scary, and sometimes valuable friends of resources. The artwork is fun and bright, but not quite as polished as I would like. However, it is still a wonderful book.

Book Review: If You Were the Moon by Laura Purdie Salas, Jaime Kim

If You Were the Moon is a picturebook by Laura Purdie Salas and Jaime Kim. If you were the moon, what would you do? You'd spin like a twilight ballerina and play dodgeball with space rocks! A blend of ideas about what a moon does that is perfect for bedtime reading is paired with information about the real science and facts about the moon.

If You Were the Moon is a lovely book, with illustrations that are detailed and in colors that catch the eye. This book could be approached two ways, and in that way can also grow with your child. On one hand, you could just read the larger print and have a lovely bedtime story, a quick and light read. Thgis text is well shaped for reading aloud, and the illustrations are somehow soothing even with the pops of color and details. The bracketed information offers accessible facts about the moon, that can inspire research or further conversations about science and the moon in particular.  I really liked that there was a glossary and resources for further information and exploration at the end of the book.

I think this book is one that can grow with young readers, can inspire interest and conversations, and will stand up to multiple reads. A win on encouraging science and information seeking, as well as offering a sweetly flowing bedtime story.

Early Book Review: All Birds Have Anxiety by Kathy Hoopman

All Birds Have Anxiety by Kathy Hoopman is a children’s nonfiction book currently scheduled for release on March 21 2017. Life as a bird can be stressful! From worrying about airplanes, windows, and getting enough worms to eat, it is clear that birds can be anxious beings. Through a light-touch, quizzical depiction of bird behavior, this book uses colourful images and astute explanations to explore with gentle humor what it means to live with anxiety day-to-day, and how to begin to deal with it.

All Birds Have Anxiety is a book that deals with anxiety, and how to cope with it. I like that the book pairs images of real birds with the explanations of anxiety- what it is, what it feels like, and how to mitigate its effects on your life.  This makes the book a great tool for children dealing with anxiety themselves, or for those that have seen it in others and want to understand. Even adults reading this with their children or a classroom might find little phrases from the book that bring home something they might have missed in understanding anxiety. I really like that the book offers the simple information, like how anxiety can make  you feel, as well as resources for those that need more tools to handle their own anxiety. I am thrilled that the book points out that everyone feels anxiety, but that some of us have more than others- and it is not fun but it is not something to feel ashamed or more anxious about. The tools and resources the book offers are very useful and I think the book offers humor and face in a package that can encourage understanding and empathy.

All Birds Have Anxiety validates the experiences of anxiety, provides understanding of the many symptoms associated with anxiety, and offers compassionate suggestions for change. The combination of humor, understanding, and resources make this a valuable introduction to anxiety disorder for those diagnosed with this condition, their family and friends and those generally interested in understanding anxiety.

Book Review: Even Ninjas have Nightmares by J.C. Rouses

Even Ninjas have Nightmares is a picturebook by J.C. Rouses.When a young ninja is confronted by a monster that hides under his bed, the boy must battle his own fears in order to understand that even the strongest people can get scared sometimes. He denies his fears, and wakes the house in his fierce denial even as he wakes up with nightmares and scares. Finally our ninja admits those fears and realizes that not only is he not alone, but he can still be a brave ninja even if he has nightmares.

Even Ninjas have Nightmares is a picturebook that takes the common fears, and attempted denial of them, and shows young readers that it is okay to be afraid. It is the admission of fear and facing them, and helping others face their fears, that makes you brave. I love the illustrations and the repeated awakens of the young ninja. The artwork is a perfect pairing to the story and offer extra bits of humor and details to the larger story. I think my favorite part was the end when the ninja comforts and helps his little sister face her own fears and nightmares. I think that added a special value to the lesson and might help young readers with understanding and empathy if they do not have nightmare problems of their own.

Book Review: Not Quite a Narwhal by Jessie Sima

Not Quite a Narwhal by Jessie Sima is a picturebook about being different. Growing up in the ocean, Kelp has always assumed that he was a narwhal like the rest of his family. Sure, he’s always been a little bit different—his tusk isn’t as long, he’s not as good of a swimmer, and he really doesn’t enjoy the cuisine. Then one night, an extra strong current sweeps Kelp to the surface, where he spots a mysterious creature that looks just like him! Kelp discovers that he and the creature are actually unicorns. The revelation leaves him torn: is he a land narwhal or a sea unicorn? But perhaps, if Kelp is clever, he may find a way to have the best of both worlds.

Not Quite a Narwhal is a fun, delightful picturebook. A young unicorn raised by Narwhals, never quite as good of a swimmer as his family. When he finds unicorns and discovers the joys of land and their culture. Having two groups of people that are kind of like you, and love you, but are a little different is something many children experience. Kelp's discover of how not fitting in well in either place can led to two group of people to love and enjoy. This story will resonate with readers of all ages that have felt too different or stuck between worlds. This will also help children facing family changes and a whole host of challenges that  they might have to face. It is also a fun and sweet book that everyone can enjoy. 

Early Book Review: Agnes and Clarabelle by Adele Griffin, Courtney Sheinmel, Sara Palacios

Agnes and Clarabelle is a children's book written by Adele Griffin and Courtney Sheinmel with illustrations by Sara Palacios. It is currently scheduled for publication on January 17 2017. It is an advanced easy reader or easy chapter book, depending on how you categorize those transitional books that help bridge the gap for young readers.

Agnes the pig and Clarabelle the chicken are best friends through every season! Whether it's planning the perfect birthday party in the spring, spending a summer day at the beach, braving a big department store in the fall, or making the very best pizza in winter, they help each other through every up and down. For Agnes and Clarabelle, everything is better when they're together!

Agnes and Clarabelle is a charmingly illustrated set of stories about best friends Agnes and Clarabelle. They are friends that will do anything for each other and help each other face challenges and fears on a daily basis. I like that they how teamwork and understanding no matter what they face, and do not judge each other no matter how intense those fears might be, or how silly someone else might find them. They are a perfect pair, and that is my only sticking point. While I love that the stories clearly show a character with anxiety, and how the pair care for each other unconditionally, i thought the lack of any frustration or conflict was a little too perfect. Although, that could have been intentional.

Agnes and Clarabelle is a sweet book that can help start discussions on anxiety, tolerance, and acceptance. I think it will appeal to many, and can help foster empathy in some and the feeling of not being alone in others.

Early Book Review: When We Were Alone by David Alexander Robertson, Julie Flett

When We Were Alone is a picturebook written by David Alexander Robertson and illustrated by Julie Flett. It is currently scheduled for release on December 31 2016. When a young girl helps tend to her grandmother’s garden, she begins to notice things about her grandmother that make her curious. Why does her grandmother have long braided hair and wear beautifully colored clothing? Why does she speak another language and spend so much time with her family? As she asks her grandmother about these things, she is told about life in a residential school a long time ago, where everything was taken away. 

When We Were Alone is a wonderful look at how much the younger generation can learn about their heritage and the lives of their family by asking questions. I think it is important for us all to understand what our elders and ancestors went through, and how other cultures have faced. this picturebook offers a little of each. Whether your family tree includes Cree (or any other Native American Heritage) or not, it is important to know what they faced, and how any group has been treated in the past or present. Not only does this book offer a lesson on heritage and history, it can also help with empathy and understanding. Perhaps a better understanding of our shared history can help us understand how others feel and prevent similar treatment of groups still or now considered 'other'. I would highly recommend adding this to any library collection. It can start many important conversations that are currently very relevant to the current state of the world and necessary.

Book Review: Abigail the Whale by Davide Cali, Sonja Bougaeva

Abigail the Whale is a picturebook written by Davide Cali and illustrated by Sonja Bougaeva. Abigail dreads swimming lessons because every time she dives into the pool, she makes a big splash, and all the girls in her class shout: “Abigail’s a whale!” Abigail can see that she is larger than the other girls. She feels huge, heavy, and out of place. Abigail’s swimming teacher points out that we can change how we see ourselves. He shows her a way to feel bolder, more confident, and more accepting of herself. Abigail tries it out in challenging situations that week; walking home in the dark, eating her vegetables, trying to fall asleep. Next time she’s in swimming class, instead of feeling heavy, Abigail thinks sardine, eel, barracuda, shark! She starts to figure out how to draw on mindfulness, creative thinking, resilience, and positive self-esteem to embrace exactly who she is.

Abigail the Whale is a book that many of us can identify with. Abigail is a big girl, and hates the splash she makes when she jumps in the pool, and the way the kids tease her because of it. When her coach tells her that "We are what we think" she puts that idea to work everywhere she goes. I love that the illustrations show her imagination and changing perspectives about herself and the world around her. While positive and creative thinking cannot solve everything, it is a good, healthy way to start. i also like that she does not think herself thin when it comes time to dive again. instead she works with herself and thinks about being light and agile, like a rocket or shark. She does not get down on herself about her weight, nor does her coach, instead they work on tools to achieve what she wants to without worrying about other people, which is easier said than done. I liked that even when using her tools, and trying her best, Abigail was still nervous and worried, just like anyone would be in her place. 

 Abigail the Whale is a wonderful example of thinking and doing big things, without giving in to bullying and fear. Not only does it give a good example of creative thinking, it can also serve as a conversation or thought starter about self-confidence, bullying, empathy, and problem solving. A wonderful book to address this issues at home or in a classroom setting.

Book Review: Pirates in the Library by Nadia Ali, Jake Tebbits

Pirates in the Library is a picture book written by by Nadia Ali, and illustrated by Jake Tebbits. Prepare to set sail for the adventure of a lifetime with fierce Captain Jake when he discovers a treasure map that leads him, his crew (and a parrot, too), right to the library. Ms. Benitez, the librarian, welcomes them, as long as they behave! The pirates’ search is on! Soon they discover, with the aid of Dread Pirate Dewey’s map, treasures galore on the shelves. Now the dilemma: Can they keep these treasures? Ms. Benitez has the answer.

Pirates in the Library is a fun adventure that starts with pirates searching for treasure, but includes the rules and organization of most public and school libraries. Ms. Benitez is rather like most librarian that i know, wanting to encourage people to come and use the library, and to feel comfortable there. we want people to be able to find and use our resources- otherwise why have them? I like that the treasure is the contents of the library- and that even pirates used to plundering agree to return the materials they take in order to have access to even more treasures. I also like that the book includes a guide to the Dewey Decimal System. The chart would be helpful for many that want to browse the non fiction collection of any library using the system. A valuable and inviting learning tool for parents, teachers, and librarians. 

Early Book Review: Dreaming of Mocha by An Swerts, Eline van Lindenhuizen

Dreaming of Mocha is a picture book written by An Swerts and illustrated by Eline van Lindenhuizen. It is currently scheduled for release on November 15 2016. Florence wants a dog, any dog. A dog to take care of, to run with, and to play with. One day there’s a little dog in Florence’s garden. “Mocha” it says on his collar. Mocha and Florence become the best of friends. But then Mocha’s owner is suddenly at the door. And he is a very nice man. What will Florence do now?

Dreaming of Mocha is a wonderful little book with illustrations that will capture the interest and attention of readers while connecting them to the story of Florence. I like that children, and adults, can understand Florence's desire for a dog and the depth of which she wants one. The discovery of the escaped Mocha and the lessons Florence needs to learn about responsibilities, friendship, and doing the right thing are handled with a perfect balance of fun and sweetness. Florence's escapades of trying to keep Mocha hidden are great fun, and made me glad not to be the one cleaning up the dirty paw prints when all was said and done. My favorite part of the book is the lesson that not always getting what you want is not a tragedy, but might lead to different good things, like unexpected friendships.

Dreaming of Mocha is a funny, sweet, and entertaining picture book that will likely become a repeat request from many animal loving youngsters.

Book Review: The Cranky Ballerina by Elise Gravel

The Cranky Ballerina is a picturebook written and illustrated by Elise Gravel. Ada hates everything about ballet class, yet she still has to go! Then one Saturday, Ada pliés right out the door and into the hallway, smacking into someone who thinks her ungraceful moves are great! Her mistake might just lead to a wonderful new adventure for Ada.

The Cranky Ballerina is another winner from Gravel. The illustrations are wonderful, and the thought bubbles keep the flow and energy of the book at a constant level. Ada is an energetic and plucky young girl who wants to go her own way. she does not like ballet, and does not feel like she is good at it despite the rehearsals she is dragged to. I like that Ada dislikes ballet, not because of what it is, but because she just does not feel like it is right for her. She pits in an honest effort, and it just does not click with her. when she stumbles into the perfect solution I was delighted on several levels. I like that her new activity is not necessarily a 'girl' activity, but something that she takes to right away with no thought to gender roles. i have to admit that I see a bt of myself, and my daughter, in Ada's stubbornness and love for something other than what is the suggested activity for her.

The Cranky Ballerina offers readers a book in which the author clearly understands how her youngest readers feel, and offers them understanding and support through fun books that just might help their adults understand them a little bit better as well, and remember how they felt when they were younger themselves.

Book Review: You Belong to Me by Mamoru Suzuki

You Belong to Me by Mamoru Suzuki is a picturebook about the love between parents and their children, including human and animal families. The text is simple, showing examples of the care and protection parents offer their young. The illustrations are simple and cute, and when combined with the repetitive text make for a basic but enjoyable bedtime story.

 You Belong to Me is not a new idea, or done with any illustrations or idea that wowed me or broke the mold. It is sweet and simple, but an idea that has been done before. There is nothing wrong with the book. it is adequate, but it just does not stand out for me. I thought it was just nice, not anything that makes me think it will be a requested repeat.

Early Book Review: The Day Santa Stopped Believing in Harold by Maureen Fergus

The Day Santa Stopped Believing in Harold by Maureen Fergus is a picturebook currently scheduled for release on October 11 2016.  Santa has a problem. This kid? Harold? Santa doesn't think he's real. He WANTS to believe in Harold--after all, Harold is one of the most magical parts of Christmas.  But Santa's just not sure. Some of his friends are telling him they think Harold's not real. And the Harold that sat on his knee last Christmas looked AWFULLY different. Santa comes up with a plan to find out once and for all if Harold really exists, with hilarious consequences.

The Day Santa Stopped Believing in Harold handles the questions many children face when they start hearing whispers of the more magical parts of childhood being less than real. Classmates, siblings, cousins, television shows and any number of sources could have a child wondering if Santa and the other magical forces that inhabit childhood are real. By twisting the narrative so that it is Santa not fully believing in a particular child makes the story fun and more engaging to young readers. I think this is a fun and helpful read for families wanting to keep the belief alive a little longer. 

The Day Santa Stopped Believing in Harold is a delightful picture book for dealing with declining faith in the wonders of Santa, the Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy and the like. A wonderful read for families and particularly children that still want to believe. 

Early Book Review: Narwhal: The Unicorn of the Sea by Ben Clanton

Narwhal: The Unicorn of the Sea by Ben Clanton is an early graphic novel that is currently scheduled for release on October 4 2016. Narwhal is a happy-go-lucky narwhal. Jelly is a no-nonsense jellyfish. The two might not have a lot in common, but they do they love waffles, parties and adventures. Join Narwhal and Jelly as they discover the whole wide ocean together is three silly and simply awesome adventures. First, Jelly learns that Narwhal is a really good friend. Then Narwhal and Jelly form their own pod of awesomeness with their ocean friends. And finally, Narwhal and Jelly read the best book ever, even though it doesn't have any words or pictures!

Narwhal: The Unicorn of the Sea is tremendous fun. At first I almost called this an easy reader- mainly because it had the feel of fun and friendship I get when enjoying an Elephant and Piggie book from Mo Willems, or the more recent Ballet Cat from Bob Shea. However, this book is about a narwhal- who does not love a narwhal? Particularly when one is so enthusiastically happy and willing to try just about anything, particularly if it will make his friend jelly happy. The three adventures are fun, and show the importance of friendship and trying new things, and imagination, just as much as they make readers of all ages laugh. As a bonus, there are some interesting bits of information about real narwhals tossed in with all the fun.

Narwhal: The Unicorn of the Sea is a great book to introduce young readers to graphic novels. However, if you are against graphic novels for some reason, just call it a picturebook or easy reader- because it could fit those descriptors easily as well. A delightfully fun book that will make fans of Bob Shea and Mo Willems very happy.

Early Book Review: Isabella Girl in Charge by Jennifer Fosberry

Isabella Girl in Charge is a picture book (and more) by Jennifer Fosberry. It is currently scheduled for release on October 4 2016. A big event has Isabella ready to leave home at the crack of dawn, but that’s a motion her parents are not likely to pass. After a two-to-one vote, it’s decided that some things need to happen before Isabella can leave the house, like eating breakfast and brushing her teeth! If her house is going to work like a democracy, Isabella knows what she has to do; call an assembly and campaign her way out the door! Isabella celebrates the women who were first to hold public offices. And if Isabella can get her parents out the door, she might just witness the first woman voted into the highest position of all.

Isabella Girl in Charge is a fun and informative book. As Isabella tries to get out to attend a grand event with her parents she changes names and imagined identities to take on the roles of some of the most important women in history. At the end of the book each of those women and their accomplishments are described in detail. In the end the family does get to their destination, to see a woman elected president (no, she looks nothing like Hillary or Jill). I like that while democracy and women breaking barriers is covered, were are no political lines drawn in the sand. It is not about policy or issues, but the fact that women are perfectly capable to doing such difficult jobs.

Isabella Girl in Charge is a great way to encourage girls to shoot for the stars, and to remind them that women can do anything. I really thought the information on the variety of women that are covered in the book was a crucial and interesting part of the book. Reading about women that decided the odds to be the first governor, mayor, and the like might just inspire a young reader to do something amazing. 

Early Book Review: The Storybook Knight by Helen and Thomas Doherty

The Storybook Knight by Helen and Thomas Doherty  is a picturebook that is currently scheduled for release on October 1 2016. Even though Leo would rather sit at home and read, his parents send him out into the world to deal with a dragon, in the hopes that Leo will become a famous knight. During his journey Leo comes up against the land’s most fearsome beasts, he soon discovers that scary monsters enjoy a good book as much as he does and finds his own path to victory.

The Storybook Knight is a fun story about the power of a good story, and the wonder of reading. Leo loves reading, and would rather get lost in his books than do anything else. I can relate, and so can me kids. We would all much rather relax with a good book than go out and face the real world. What I really like about this book is that when Leo does face the world he gets to share his love of reading, and talk about stories and books with those that he meets. He does not just get to have a mental adventure, he gets to share his adventure with others, which makes it even better. Perhaps this book will not only encourage a love a books and reading, but also help get us book lovers up and sharing our favorite stories with each other!

The Storybook Knight is a wonderful story that just happens to also encourage a love a reading, books, and storytelling. A winner all around as far as I am concerned.

Helen and Thomas Docherty are the husband-and-wife author and illustrator team behind the award-winning children's picture book, The Snatchabook. They live in Bristol, England, with their two daughters. For more information, visit, thomasdocherty.co.uk. 

Early Book Review: Lucy and Company by Marianne Dubuc

Lucy and Company is a picturebook (or perhaps an early chapter book) by Marianne Dubuc which is scheduled for release on September 6 2016. This book features three, short, cozy stories features a little girl named Lucy and her four animal friends. The critters include Marcel the mouse, Henry the rabbit, Dot the turtle and Adrian the snail. (Anton the bear also makes two surprise appearances!) The friends share snacks on a picnic, celebrate a special birthday with a treasure hunt and find a new home for some lost baby chicks. Told with sweet humor and simple language, each of the bite-size stories contains its own complete adventure, with an unexpected twist at the end!

Lucy and Company is a sweet and simply pleasing series of stories about the small moments shared by a group of friends. The artwork is soft and subtle, resembling the works from the Winnie The Pooh series with it's birds eye view perspective. the friends and their adventures are fun and sweet, and the text is simple enough for the younger readers o follow, but not so basic to bore the more advanced readers. I liked that the social lessons that children need to understand before pre-school and kindergarten are expressed in a charming and understandable manner, getting the ideas of sharing and friendship across without making the readers feel like they are being taught.

Lucy and Company is a great book for story times or young readers that are ready to transition from picturebooks and basic easy readers to early chapterbooks and harder, more complicated, easy readers. It would work well for either story time sharing or independent exploration.

Early Book Review: The Branch by Mireille Messier, Pierre Pratt

The Branch is a picturebook written by Mireille Messier and illustrated by Pierre Pratt. It is currently scheduled for release on September 6 2016. When an ice storm snaps a small girl's favorite branch from the tree in her yard, she's crestfallen. The girl's mom says it's just a branch. But not to her! “That was the branch I sat on, jumped from, played under. It was my castle, my spy base, my ship.” Luckily, her neighbor Mr. Frank understands. He says the branch has “potential.” And so, with imagination and spirit, and Mr. Frank's guidance and tools, the girl transforms the broken branch into something whole and new, giving it another purpose, and her another place to treasure.

The Branch is a beautifully illustrated picturebook that inspires creativity and looking for solutions rather than dwelling on the bad things in life. The young girl used the now broken branch to climb and sit in the tree, it was her special perch. Without it she is at a loss. The neighborhood is working together to clean up after the storm, and her neighbor takes notice of her distress and works with her to find a solution. I like that the little girl takes part in the solution, learning how to use tools and help create a new use for the branch rather than the older gentleman just doing the project on his own. I loved the spirit of  people working together, for no other reason than to be helpful and kind. This is a beautiful lesson that not only encourages a feeling of community, but also encouraging creativity, ingenuity, and hard work.

Early Book Review: Fuchsia Fierce by Christianne Jones

Fuchsia Fierce by Christianne Jones is a picturebook that is currently scheduled for release on September 1 2016.Fuchsia Fierce is a bold name for a bold girl, but she does not feel brave. Her parents send her to camp where she tries new things and finds confidence in herself. Thanks to her camp counselor, and her friends, Fuchsia finally learns how to live up to her name.

Fuchsia Fierce is a picturebook about breaking out of your shell and trying new things even though it is scary. I like that Fuchsia starts off as a shy girl and that even at Camp Confidence she is not forced into anything. Her camp councilors and fellow campers let her be herself, and join in when she was ready. They let her make her excuses and stand on the sideline until she is ready to take a chance on her own. as a adult that was a shy child and still dreads rooms full of strangers I could relate to Fuchsia.  When she was ready to join in, and face her fears, she discovered that while she might not be good at everything, she could only discover what she was good at by trying. I only wish my childhood camp counselors, teachers, and such had let me make those types of decisions at my own pace as well. I think this is a great read for shy children, and those that love them. While I do not recommend shipping your kid off to camp without talking to them first, giving them every opportunity to shine in their own way and time is wonderful.

Fuchsia Fierce is a great picturebook about being shy, coming out of your shell, and facing the fear that often comes when facing new experiences like school, camp, or activities. I think those that have children that are shy or reluctant to participate could benefit from the read as well, but understanding more about how the child feels and that letting them take steps at their own pace could be the best for everyone.

About the Author: Christianne Jones is an award-winning author of books for younger children. Her picture book Lacey Walker, Nonstop Talker won a 2013 Gelett Burgess Award and was a Midwest Book Award finalist, and Hello, Goodbye, and a Very Little Lie was listed as one of the 100 best children’s books by popular parenting site babble.com. Christianne lives in Mankato, Minnesota, with her husband and three daughters.

About the Illustrator: Kelly Canby was born in London, England, but has lived in Australia since the grand old age of three, which is probably about the same age she started playing with pencils and crayons. And it was probably only a few years afterward that she decided playing with pencils and crayons was something she wanted to do for the rest of her life. With a Bachelor of Art (design and illustration) from Curtin University, Western Australia, Kelly has been scribbling professionally, and much more neatly, since her early twenties, predominantly as a graphic designer and now as a freelance illustrator of children’s books.

Early Book Review: Herbie’s Big Adventure by Jennie Poh

Herbie’s Big Adventure is a picturebook by Jennie Poh which is currently scheduled for release on September 1 2016.Herbie is a little hedgehog who is perfectly happy at home with his mother. But one day Mommy tells Herbie that it's time to go exploring all by himself! Herbie is so not sure he is up for it, but ready or not as soon as he begins a westerly wind sweeps Herbie into the wide world and his adventure begins!

Herbie’s Big Adventure is a very cute picturebook. I really enjoyed the artwork, it had plenty of detail and emotion without being overwhelming or loud. Instead, it was subtle and realistic. Herbie the hedgehog loves to do all the things a young hedgehog should, especially enjoy the hugs and affection of his mother. However, as he grows his mother knows it is time for him to go out to explore and forage of his own. She trusts his skills and that he will come home to her, even when Herbie doubts himself. As he steps out the door for his big adventure the wind sweeps him further away than he wants, but he does all the right things and finds himself carried back home again. This would be a great choice for reading with more timid or dependent children in order to encourage to trust in themselves, particularly when their parents express their faith in them.

Herbie’s Big Adventure is a fun book about trusting in yourself and exploring the world. I loved the artwork and the sprinkle of imagination that is thrown in the mix. It will be a hit with many kinds of young readers, and caregivers alike.

About the Author/Illustrator: Jennie was born in England and grew up in Malaysia, in the jungle. At the age of 10, she moved back to England and went on to study Fine Art at the Surrey Institute of Art & Design, as well as Fashion Illustration at Central St Martins. Jennie loves the countryside, animals, tea and reading. She lives in Woking, England with her husband and two wonderful daughters.