In this post I review five wonderful books. Four are from well-known publishers, and another is in a special category of its own. All can be used as read aloud books, or some as personal reading for children aged 6-8.
The reviews include two Graphic Novels (or are they comic books), and a wonderful illustrated history of the world filled with hilarious (and funny) facts.
I also want to introduce my followers to the work of Nigel Osgood. Nigel is self publishing his books, but I'm keen for my readers (and perhaps some publishers) to know about this very talented British author/illustrator who SHOULD have a
publisher to get his work to a wider audience. This is the first book in a series he has planned. Perhaps one
of my friends in publishing, might just take a look at the work of this talented
author. Let me know if you'd like to know more. Here's an example of his wonderful work.
1. 'Bedtime for Ella: A Giggly Furbottom Adventure'
Author Nigel Osgood. Nigel uses the pseudonym of 'Goose in Gold' on his publications (Illustrations by Kriss Lillyman).
'Bedtime for Ella' is the story of 6-year-old who is not your average child! "For 6-year-old Ella, night-time was not for sleep, but to explore a kingdom where monsters creep."
"For in this world of wonder, Ella felt free. To dance and dream, wild and full of glee."
And "Suddenly, poof! A fuzzy surprise... A monster appeared with angry red eyes! The Monster bellowed, such a spooky noise. Ella yelled back, "No silly monster steals my toys!"
The wonderful illustrations of Kris Lillyman support so beautifully the engaging text. Nigel has another 5 books set to be released on Amazon as self-published works. I hope a one of the many publishers that follow my blog will make contact with Nigel and see if he's prepared to seek a wider audience in collaboration with a publisher.
2. 'Friendly Bee and Friends' by Sean E Avery
Sean E Avery is a teacher, writer-illustrator, sculptor and designer born in South Africa; living in Perth, Western Australia. He’s known as the writer-illustrator of well-loved children’s picture books, All Monkeys Love Bananas and Harold and Grace published by Freemantle Press.
This is a funny graphic novel about friendship, helping others, accepting our differences and tolerance, and with facts supplied by Clever Cricket, it is sure to be enjoyed by all students in junior to middle primary.
A wasp and a bee are friends?! Or are they just acquaintances? Bee is always friendly and trying to help, but this isn't always reciprocated as things always seem to go wrong for wasp. Bee is dressed for a party, but Wasp doesn't see that as necessary. Bee makes one for him, but when he tries it on (under sufferance) things go very wrong. This is a quirky book that young readers will find intriguing and engaging. The illustrations alone will keep them returning to the book time and again.
3. 'Friendly Bee and Friends: Woe is for Worm' by Sean & Avery
In this crazy second adventure of a Bee and his friend who is a Wasp things go a little wrong when they are invited to a party by a Worm. Bee decides it would be fun for Wasp to wear a dress like she did to the last party. Wasp doesn't think this is a good idea. No! But Bee launches a sneaky attack from behind to get it on him. Alas! Wasp's wings get stuck and he makes an ungainly crash landing. Ouch!
They meet a distraught worm nearby who is complaining because he can't feel his legs. Ever helpful Bee suggests they must help him. Bee tries some of his jokes. Mmm, these don't seem to work. What next?
A hairy Spider with far too many legs, and finally a whole swarm of Bees. This funny little book will keep children fascinated. Some might even make up their own version of the story as they flip the pages. Another wonderful book for children aged 4-6.
4. 'Be the Bus: The Lost & Found Wisdom of the Pigeon' Mo Willems
The
great Mo Willems has another book out that will captivate children aged
4-8 years. Willems is a legendary author/illustrator. He is a number
one New York Times bestselling author and illustrator and has been
awarded three Caldecott Medals for his picture books. As well, two Theodor
Seuss Geisel Medals and five Honours for his 'Elphie & Piggie' books
for early readers.
In this funny book The Pigeon decides to share wisdom. Wisdom once lost, but now found by Mo Willems. We must be grateful for this amazing gift to humanity. The Pigeon humbly suggests that all great things have already been said. For example:
"Never trust a quotation" Plato
"I am not susceptible to flattery" (Unless it's about me)
"Genius is seldom recognised" (That is why I wear a name tag)
"Drive like no one is watching." (HONK like no one is listening! Dream like no one is thwarting)
"Dropped food is gravity's way of sharing"
"Aren't complainers the WORST?"
5. 'History FACTopia! Follow Ye Olde Trail of 400 Facts' Written by Paige Towler & illustrated by Any Smith
As a young boy in my Primary School years, if I'd had this book it would have been my favourite. It would have been revisited every time I went to the library. What a wonderful way to present history to 8-12 years old.
What's even more wonderful is that the facts are funny and yet they will expand worlds and minds. As well, every fact is connected in some way. You can wind your way from facts about sport to horses, armour, pyramids or from underground to discoveries, tombs and burials, curses, decorative arts, the Incas and so much more. What child wouldn't want to know that Australia's world-renowned Opera House had its sail-like shape inspired by the Architect peeling an orange!
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