Picture storybooks: imagination and play

Book Synopsis“. . . a head-spinning yet easygoing lesson in finding your own voice, and your own fun.”–The New York TimesAn offbeat story about adventure and creativity featuring a cast of quirky self aware picture book characters.Have you ever opened a book, only to discover that the characters inside already know they're inside of one? All that's left for them to do now is wait for the story to arrive, but it's certainly taking its time in getting here. This cleverly self-aware, interactive picture book, loosely based on Waiting For Godot, introduces a charming cast of characters illustrated in Marianna Coppo's quirky and delicate style. Young readers will learn that instead of waiting around for stories to happen, they should go out into the world and create their own! Perfect for fans of The Monster at the End of this Book and The Book with No Pictures. Trade Review“. . . a head-spinning yet easygoing lesson in finding your own voice, and your own fun.”–The New York Times"[Coppo’s] subtle ability to control readers’ attention is polished. Life involves a lot of waiting, as Samuel Beckett knew—but why wait for someone else to deliver your story, Coppo asks, when you can write it yourself?"—Publishers Weekly“A playful, self-aware picture book that has a lot of read-aloud potential.”—Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW

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Book SynopsisBe original! You are one of a kind, and so is your story! Finney the Fox wants to write a book. He’s just bursting with ideas. The only problem is … all the original ideas are gone! Or are they? Join Finney as he tries to find his story, with a little help from a friend. Based on the UCLan Publishing logo, Finney the Fox has been brought to life by competition winner Alana Washington & illustrator Charlotte Caswell.

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Book SynopsisThe follow-up to bestselling All the Ways to be Smart by Davina Bell and Allison Colpoys. Good or bad, the things you do are all a part of being you — of learning how to take your boat on stormy seas and stay afloat. From the creators of All the Ways To Be Smart comes a message of hope: hard days come and go, but love is with us always. A healing and uplifting tribute to learning and growing — to making mistakes and making amends.Trade Review‘Reassuring and exuberant.’ -- Nicolette Jones * The Sunday Times *‘Reading this is like free-falling through a rainbow: the vibrant illustrations have a vintage feel, and the well-crafted story captures the highs and lows as two best friends tackle an emotionally charged day.’ -- Frances Atkinson * The Sydney Morning Herald *‘The colour palette is bright with shades of pink, lime and aqua that perfectly match the strong emotions on display. Davina Bell’s rhyme scheme is witty, with changing meter and unusual phrasings that create a jaunty delivery for the heartfelt message. Allison Colpoys’ illustrations feature a diverse range of children and families along with beautiful details … It’s warm, playful and emotionally intelligent.’ -- Fay Helfenbaum * Books+Publishing *‘This little book with universal themes holds a valuable lesson inside that makes it a must-read for young children.’ -- Fiona Buckley * Irish Examiner *‘The book we all need right now!’ -- Leesa Lambert * The Little Bookroom *‘Scribble Kids turns the page with Tomorrow Is a Brand-New Day by Davina Bell, illus. by Allison Colpoys, delivering a hopeful and reassuring message that we all have bad days, but they do pass.’ * Publishers Weekly *‘The rhyming text is a pleasure to read and the illustrations dance with life.’ -- Sarah Webb * Irish Independent *‘I just love this book … It’s written in joyful verse, and the children in the illustrations are wildly and beautifully irreverent.’ * Juno Magazine *‘Empowering … uplifting and charming.’ * BookTrust *‘Bright, candy coloured acrylic paint and digital art carries this earnest book about overcoming big feelings. I like the diversity of the friends and their schoolmates (several wear hijabs, one wears hearing aids) and their families (one is a single parent household and the other has two dads). Rhyming text does a good job describing feelings — worry, fear, disappointment, crankiness, anger, hurt, and finally relief that families and friends will still love you. The cheerful art and positive message that things will get better could be just what a kid needs on a bad day.’ * Youth Services Book Review *‘It’s reflective, inspiring, hopeful and has the most engagingly bright and beautiful illustrations. Another poignant and uplifting story which we’re delighted to have on our bookshelf!’ -- @storiesforlittleones

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Book Synopsis'What a spectacular story’ Phoebe Bridgers A buoyant and heartwarming celebration of individuality, identity, and dressing to suit yourself! It’s almost Frankie’s birthday and everything is ready — except for something to wear. All of her party dresses feel wrong. Her family tries to help, but it’s no good. What Frankie longs for is a suit. A spectacular suit … Can Frankie find the outfit of her dreams? The perfect gift for birthday parties, crafters, and children who don’t identify with traditional gender roles Wonderful conversation starter for teachers and librarians to explore gender and identity with age-relevant material from creators whose life experience is reflected in the story Trade Review‘A gorgeous glam-rock picture-book celebration of individual style, empathic family, and wearing what feels spectacular.’ -- Imogen Russell Williams * The Guardian *‘Empowering … Hayley Well’s illustrations offer an explosion of colour and shapes to match Frankie’s mood as it shifts from self-consciousness to celebration, resulting in a collaboration that will help both children and their adult readers consider the way in which we use outer armour to reflect our inner selves.’ -- Sara Keating * The Irish Times *‘From Kat Patrick, author of Doodle Cat and Howl, comes a gorgeous picture book about the nervous joy of expressing yourself through clothing and the strength that comes with family support. Finding the perfect look (especially one with such strong Bowie vibes) for your own party can be incredibly empowering, and The Spectacular Suit also plays with gender in the same, delightful way that children do. Artist Hayley Wells’s picture book debut is warmly illustrated in a limited colour palette, creating a cohesive story world … While this story is a great one for sharing with children from the age of three, when the desire to choose your own outfit really begins to take hold, it could be perfect for those well into primary school, when individuality and identity begin to take on more significance.’ -- Michael Earp * Books+Publishing *‘This is a vibrant, charming book about how clothes can make you feel special and the importance of wearing the clothes that reflect your identity. The digital illustrations are gorgeous and dynamic and make the story really sing. It’s a delightful book.’ -- Angela Crocombe, Manager of Readings Kids‘Immensely charming … A delightful, affirming story about finding your unique look without reducing it to simplistic, black-and-white, or reductive ideas about gender presentation. One of a kind.’ * Kirkus Reviews *‘[A] great addition to the growing LGBTQIA+ picture book collection … Specifically give it to kids who see themselves or see others in their lives who may not follow traditional gender roles or may be questioning their own gender identity. Read-alike with Julián is a Mermaid.’ -- Sarah Bickel * Youth Services Book Review *‘[A] beautiful reflection for kids who push back against gender stereotypes.’ * The Tiny Activist *'Primary colours pop in this celebratory picture book about supporting children’s senses of being. Frankie couldn’t be more excited for her garden party, where there will be pickles and jelly beans, and decorations galore. But her mom picked out three dresses for her to wear, and none suit her spectacular expectations. She wants to wear something marvellous: “with lightning bolts and stars and style.” She has little hope that such an outfit exists, but with help from her family, her dream is achieved!' * Foreword Reviews, starred review *‘Bright digital illustrations bring Frankie’s dazzling suit to life in this uplifting picture book, which celebrates being who you want to be.’ * Scottish BookTrust *‘A heartwarming and relatable tale about a young person trying to find how they fit in — and explores non-traditional gender roles … It’ll be one you return to at bedtime time and time again, and is a great starting point to talk about identity and self-expression.’ -- Prudence Wade * Press Association *‘A beautiful story of identity and expression … an essential addition to the primary classroom, an opportunity to open up valuable discussions and to celebrate who we are as individuals.’ * Just Imagine *‘A gorgeous glam-rock picture-book celebration of individual style, empathic family, and wearing what feels spectacular.’ -- Imogen Russell Williams * The Guardian *‘An empowering and reassuring story of a child who (possibly) feels that she doesn’t fit into a traditional gender role, and the ways that her family support her in a positive way.’ * BookTrust *‘A bright and vibrant book celebrating individualism and to help start conversations with those who want to explore their gender.’ * Juno *‘An opportunity to explore gender and identity issues through the experiences of a child who doesn’t identify with traditional gender roles, drawing on the experiences of both author and illustrator.’ * The School Librarian *‘This is a delightful story of a child expressing herself with the help of a supportive family.’ * The Buffalo News *‘Perfect for any little girl with a birthday coming up, who longs for party gear that does not involve frilly dresses!’ * Books for Keeps *

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Book SynopsisLearn how to move and groove like the animals do with this bright, fun and silly book aimed at younger readers to engage them in movement! Scuttle sideways like a crab, leap like a lemur, and waggle dance like a bumble bee. Meet a collection of animals from around the world and discover how they move, and why. The book features a different creature on each spread, along with step-by-step actions to help the kids move just like the animal. The perfect book to read aloud one-to-one, or as a fun activity to engage a group of young children and get them stretching, hopping, wriggling and jumping!

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Book SynopsisLearn how to move and groove like the animals do with this bright, fun and silly book aimed at younger readers to engage them in movement! Scuttle sideways like a crab, leap like a lemur, and waggle dance like a bumble bee. Meet a collection of animals from around the world and discover how they move, and why. The book features a different creature on each spread, along with step-by-step actions to help the kids move just like the animal. The perfect book to read aloud one-to-one, or as a fun activity to engage a group of young children and get them stretching, hopping, wriggling and jumping!

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Book SynopsisThis funny and quirky picture book celebrates children's imagination. The narrator of this book knows exactly what monsters are like: they never brush their hair or go to the dentist; they don’t wear glasses or play the piano or put on their shoes . . . Monsters don’t know they are monsters. They don’t do this and they don’t do that, and do you know why? Because monsters don’t exist!

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Book SynopsisThe bear gave a sigh and she waved a paw, “I’m a curious bear, who must explore. The world is big, and there’s more to see— And I’ll find this bear who is not like me.” With the call of the wild giving her itchy paws, the bear sets off on a new adventure with her book, fixing problems and making friends as she travels. But will she find the strange bear from her book — and if so, will it really be that different?

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Book SynopsisAS READ ON CBEEBIES BEDTIME STORIES ‘What a spectacular story’ Phoebe Bridgers A buoyant and heartwarming celebration of individuality, identity, and dressing to suit yourself! It’s almost Frankie’s birthday and everything is ready — except for something to wear. All of her party dresses feel wrong. Her family tries to help, but it’s no good. What Frankie longs for is a suit. A spectacular suit … Can Frankie find the outfit of her dreams? The perfect gift for birthday parties, crafters, and children who don’t identify with traditional gender roles Wonderful conversation starter for teachers and librarians to explore gender and identity with age-relevant material from creators whose life experience is reflected in the story Trade Review‘A gorgeous glam-rock picture-book celebration of individual style, empathic family, and wearing what feels spectacular.’ -- Imogen Russell Williams * The Guardian *‘Empowering … Hayley Well’s illustrations offer an explosion of colour and shapes to match Frankie’s mood as it shifts from self-consciousness to celebration, resulting in a collaboration that will help both children and their adult readers consider the way in which we use outer armour to reflect our inner selves.’ -- Sara Keating * The Irish Times *‘From Kat Patrick, author of Doodle Cat and Howl, comes a gorgeous picture book about the nervous joy of expressing yourself through clothing and the strength that comes with family support. Finding the perfect look (especially one with such strong Bowie vibes) for your own party can be incredibly empowering, and The Spectacular Suit also plays with gender in the same, delightful way that children do. Artist Hayley Wells’s picture book debut is warmly illustrated in a limited colour palette, creating a cohesive story world … While this story is a great one for sharing with children from the age of three, when the desire to choose your own outfit really begins to take hold, it could be perfect for those well into primary school, when individuality and identity begin to take on more significance.’ -- Michael Earp * Books+Publishing *‘This is a vibrant, charming book about how clothes can make you feel special and the importance of wearing the clothes that reflect your identity. The digital illustrations are gorgeous and dynamic and make the story really sing. It’s a delightful book.’ -- Angela Crocombe, Manager of Readings Kids‘Immensely charming … A delightful, affirming story about finding your unique look without reducing it to simplistic, black-and-white, or reductive ideas about gender presentation. One of a kind.’ * Kirkus Reviews *‘[A] great addition to the growing LGBTQIA+ picture book collection … Specifically give it to kids who see themselves or see others in their lives who may not follow traditional gender roles or may be questioning their own gender identity. Read-alike with Julián is a Mermaid.’ -- Sarah Bickel * Youth Services Book Review *‘[A] beautiful reflection for kids who push back against gender stereotypes.’ * The Tiny Activist *‘Primary colours pop in this celebratory picture book about supporting children’s senses of being. Frankie couldn’t be more excited for her garden party, where there will be pickles and jelly beans, and decorations galore. But her mom picked out three dresses for her to wear, and none suit her spectacular expectations. She wants to wear something marvellous: “with lightning bolts and stars and style.” She has little hope that such an outfit exists, but with help from her family, her dream is achieved!’ * Foreword Reviews, starred review *‘Bright digital illustrations bring Frankie’s dazzling suit to life in this uplifting picture book, which celebrates being who you want to be.’ * Scottish BookTrust *‘A heartwarming and relatable tale about a young person trying to find how they fit in — and explores non-traditional gender roles … It’ll be one you return to at bedtime time and time again, and is a great starting point to talk about identity and self-expression.’ -- Prudence Wade * Press Association *‘A beautiful story of identity and expression … an essential addition to the primary classroom, an opportunity to open up valuable discussions and to celebrate who we are as individuals.’ * Just Imagine *‘A gorgeous glam-rock picture-book celebration of individual style, empathic family, and wearing what feels spectacular.’ -- Imogen Russell Williams * The Guardian *‘An empowering and reassuring story of a child who (possibly) feels that she doesn’t fit into a traditional gender role, and the ways that her family support her in a positive way.’ * BookTrust *‘A bright and vibrant book celebrating individualism and to help start conversations with those who want to explore their gender.’ * Juno *‘An opportunity to explore gender and identity issues through the experiences of a child who doesn’t identify with traditional gender roles, drawing on the experiences of both author and illustrator.’ * The School Librarian *‘This is a delightful story of a child expressing herself with the help of a supportive family.’ * The Buffalo News * ‘Perfect for any little girl with a birthday coming up, who longs for party gear that does not involve frilly dresses!’ * Books for Keeps *

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Book SynopsisWhatever you fear, come close my dear You’re tucked in safe for always here And I will never not be near Because of our love umbrella From this award-winning creative duo comes a book about the wonder of ever-present love. A stunning celebration of the joy and comfort that is always with us, wherever we roam in the big, wild world. Who’s under your Love Umbrella?Trade Review‘Captivating neon illustrations add even more charm to this already delightful story. Under the Love Umbrella reminds children that comfort and love is ever-present, even when you are not near your family.’ * Evening Standard *‘Beautifully tender and life-affirming.’ -- Nathan Filer, author of The Shock of the Fall‘A gorgeous book about the transformative power of family love in all its forms. Written in rhyming couplets, it reassures children that they are protected by an ‘umbrella’ of love wherever they go in the world and whatever they encounter … a truly beautiful book.’ * The Sun *‘Achingly relevant … Lovely, really.’ -- Celina Ribeiro * The Guardian *‘The enduring love between parent and child is celebrated in distinctive, vintage-inspired style.’ * The Bookseller *‘Bright, expressive and featuring joyfully diverse illustration throughout, Under the Love Umbrella provides poetic reassurance that whatever happens, children will be protected and loved. Perfect for sharing at bedtime with cuddles.’ * BookTrust *‘A truly charming book little ones will adore.’ * Little London *‘This brightly illustrated picture book is a celebration of the enduring love that surrounds your children, wherever they are in the world. The families we meet represent the wonderful diversity that make our world what it is and show that there is nothing to fear from differences. It is also a reminder to children that love is around them, especially in times of worry or fear. This book is suitable for new parents and babies, as well as for children embarking on big changes and adventures, who may benefit from this lovely reminder of the permanence of love. A beautiful message to share with young children.’ * Lovereading4kids *‘The illustrations are very bright and I like that they embrace a diverse range of families and relationships … I think we should all remember that we have a “love umbrella”.’ * Juno *‘A meditation on parental love in all its forms, brought to life by a joyful neon palette.’ * The Bookseller *‘I love it! I didn’t like anything the best — it’s all good. I like the illustrations. They are cool. I like the page with the umbrella made out of stars.’ -- Benjamin (aged 5) * Anorak *‘Scary shadows, friends that don't share, shyness, moving, and such everyday childhood issues as wet pants, a lost tooth, and a parent's rushing them. No worry can last under a love umbrella … Colpoys’ striking illustrations, which combine an earth palette with day-glo highlights, effectively show love umbrellas both imagined and real.’ * Kirkus Reviews *‘This is a book that has it all — a beautiful message with amazing illustrations ... The basic point of the story is that no matter what, whoever loves you will provide comfort and shelter to help you cope with distressing situations ... The illustrations provided by Allison Colpoys are nothing short of amazing. The background on the pages are mostly black or white and the colours used are vibrant red, orange, gold, and purple — almost to the point of being neon colours. The illustrations are detailed and children will love seeing all the little things hidden in the pages ... It is also a great tool to talk about feelings.’ -- Kristin Guay, Youth Services Book Review‘This sweetly comforting story is recommended for general purchase and well suited to storytime.’ -- Elizabeth Lovsin * Deerfield Public Library *‘A beautiful story of a parent’s love … A truly wonderful book for youngsters facing change and challenges, no matter how big or small.’ -- Louise Weeks * Mum’s Grapevine *‘When life gets hard or scary, there is always room under the love umbrella to feel safe and adored ... [A] sweetly comforting story.’ * School Library Journal *‘With a comforting lilt, Bell narrates a message of unshakable connectedness and belonging… [A]n ageless reminder, tenderly composed.’ * Publishers Weekly *‘A sweet and beautifully illustrated book about love and family.’ * Baby Librarians *‘Contemporary yet classic-feeling illustrations, a simple and resonant message. Charming!’ -- Jessica Peterson White * Bookseller Review, Content Book Store *‘An incredibly uplifting, rhyming story for readers of all ages, to share, enjoy, and return to. We love this book, and the incredible warm, vibrant, celebratory illustrations will fill the hearts of all who open the page. Treat yourself to a little joy.’ * Shropshire Living *

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Book SynopsisJoin Henry on an imaginative dreamland adventure as he meets a blueberry sheep, a waffle turtle, and more! With each turn of the page, Henry grows hungrier and hungrier. Will he wake up to the breakfast of his dreams? Find out in this charming tale of healthy, playful food creations—perfect for inspiring nutritious choices that even the pickiest eater will enjoy!Trade Review"What delightful illustrations! The simplicity of Henry compliments the focus of the illustrations - animals and habitats made out of food!" -- Lola Snyder, Head of Youth Services, Jackson County Public Library, Seymour, IN" Hungry Henry makes healthy foods fun with a sweet, simple story and beautifully stylized artwork that engages and captivates young readers. This imaginative book was an instant favorite with my toddler." -- Anne Myer, teacheatlove.com"The story is simple and fun and the food creations will have your belly rumbling to read it again!" -- diapers-and-daydreams.com"The mixed media illustrations are a welcome treat as Henry, who is stick figure-like in simplicity, meets sweet animals crafted out of real foods." -- Cara Frank, Children's Literature Evaluation and Review Interest Group (CLEAR), swonlibraries.org"This read is sure to bring a smile and perhaps a bit of hunger for a healthy treat to young children who are learning the importance of a healthy and balanced diet. This captivating tale is highly recommended as a snack time read at home or school." -- Jillian Sciacca, thechildrensbookreview.com

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Book SynopsisDaniel wants to be a drummer, but he doesn’t have any drums. Little readers can help him find items around the house to build his drum set. After Daniel finds the musicality in everyday objects he discovers at home, children will have fun creating their very own drum set. A fun reminder that the joy of making music can be found anywhere.Trade Review"Mark and Maria did a really lovely job with this adorable book . . . It does go a long way to inspire children to search for musical notions in everyday household items." Todd Sucherman, drummer, Styx"I love the gentle encouragement to create your own drum set out of found items around the house. Perfect for rainy/cold days playing indoors." Lola Snyder, Head of Youth Services, Jackson County Public Library, Seymour, IN"The beauty of I Want to Be a Drummer! is that it reminds readers of all ages that the joy of making music can be found anywhere . . . you just have to look around you and experiment. I highly recommend this storytime book for your young one." Bart Elliot, drummercafe.com"A simple introduction to a favorite musical instrument." Kirkus Reviews"For every little one who has made a pot into a drum and a couple spoons into drumsticks, here is a book they'll love and can relate to!" Regina LaCaruba, diapers-and-daydreams.com" I Want To Be A Drummer provides a wonderful account of the spirit of creativity and ingenuity that manifests in young musicians, and percussionists in particular. The book is a warm and elegant illustration of how many--if not most--of the world's greatest drummers get their start." Joe Wong, host and producer, The Trap Set with Joe Wong Podcast" I Want to Be a Drummer! is a beautifully written and illustrated book that teaches young children how to problem-solve. It's a wonderful addition to my preschool classroom's library!" Sheryl Cooper, preschool teacher and writer, Teaching 2 and 3 Year Olds

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Book SynopsisCuddle up with Dad for this sweet book about a father as seen through his daughter’s eyes. When Papa braids her hair, he’s a hairdresser; when he hangs her drawings on the wall, he’s an art collector. But no matter what happens, he is always her papa, and that’s the most important thing of all!

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Book SynopsisSnuggle with Mom for this sweet book about a mother as seen through her son's eyes. To him, she is a surgeon when she repairs his favorite stuffed animal, a chemist when in the kitchen, and an architect when they play with toy blocks. But no matter what happens, she is always his mama, and that's the most important thing of all!

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