Page 31 - MAY_2017

A Fearsome Beast and Goldilocks and the
a Dumpling Feast Three Potties
Written by Yves By Leigh Hodgkinson
Stening, Illustrated by
Nigel Buchanan While there may be
plenty of toilet training
This engaging book picture books on the
is the first in a new market, many tend to
series called Dinner be straightforward and
Detectives, in which factual, making them
siblings Clementine & Aksel uncover the somewhat unappealing
magical stories behind the foods we eat every to their target market. Goldilocks and the Three
day. In their first case, they investigate Chinese Potties is exactly the opposite – children can
New Year, with their cousin Ying explaining the instantly identify with this familiar story, made
origins of the holiday’s traditions. all the more enjoyable by the fabulous quirky
illustrations.
Each book in the series will feature the recipe
for a dish that can be prepared by children and The traditional tale has been tweaked in a
their parents (in this case delicious dumplings!), humorous and relatable way, making it spot on
and which will expose them to new cuisines and for kids embarking their toilet training journey.
open up discussion about where food comes From early accidents and false alarms until they
from and the joy it can bring us. The fascinating finally get it “just right”.
story and fantastic illustrations work together
wonderfully to create a book perfect for 3-8
year olds. Grandad’s Secret Giant

By David Litchfield

Storm Whale This is the gentle tale of
Written by Sarah Billy and his grandfather,
Brennan, Illustrated who find a way to
make a shy giant feel
by Jane Tanner
welcome in their town.
This lyrical rhyming Billy learns that rather
story is a joy to read than judging others
aloud – a simple hastily based only on
tale of three sisters their appearance, it
who find a beached is important to remember that we are all just
whale and attempt people seeking connection and acceptance.
to rescue it. The text is full of rich imagery
of the seaside, and beautifully captures the feel Litchfield is the author/illustrator of the award-
of the sisters’ desperation in the midst of the winning The Bear and the Piano, and his ability
summer storm. Both the language used and the to create amazingly detailed worlds, which
realism of the illustrations have a classical, old- draw the reader into the story is sure to make
worldly feel that is not found in many picture this second solo effort another success. Best
books today. suited for children aged 2-7.

While at first, the language may seem too
complex for 4-8 year olds, Storm Whale invites
repeated readings, as parents and children can
discuss and discover together the meaning of
by
many wonderful new words.

REVIEWED
www.busybookworms.com.au

may 2017 | mychild 31