The Wishing Stone by Steve Smallman and Rebecca Elliot

Review by The Mole

Armadillo has no friends but wants to make some so when he hears people wishing he decides to help them out.

Another colourful picture book from QED with lots of action and an important message about making friends and one that, when shared with a parent, may have the child joining in in a pantomime like fashion. Fun and laughter while learning - the best way.

Once again with notes for parents and teachers on the subject of making friends at the back of the book to suggest how the book can be used to maximum effect.

Publisher - QED Publishing
Genre - Children's, Picture Book 

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Sometimes by Rebecca Elliot

Review by The Mole

It is a stressful time when a child is hospitalised. But it is also stressful and distressing for their siblings.

In this book Clemmie's brother tells of his sister's trials and tribulations in being hospitalised and how he becomes involved in trying to make her time in hospital more bearable for them both.

The bright and busy pictures are snapshots from their imaginations during their games.

Shared with a child this book will help siblings come to terms with illness, including long-term, in their brothers and sisters and to cope with many of the emotions that everyone feels. Tips for parents and a help for a sibling to see how it can be approached.

Publisher - Lion Children's
Genre - Children's 5+

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Zoo Girl - Rebecca Elliott

Few Words - Big Message
Review By The Mole

Zoo Girl is lonely and friendless until she is left behind at the zoo. She strikes up friendships with the animals and wins the hearts of the zoo keepers and is duly adopted.

The description of the story doesn't do this book justice. Although the illustrations are striking, they are also powerful enough to tell Zoo Girls story with the addition of less than 20 words. Clearly the words sort of 'hang' with so few and this is clearly not an early reader, although it is aimed at the 5+ age group. It is a book with a message and a message it tells very powerfully.

An excellent book to illustrate adoption to the very young.

Publisher - Lion Children's
Genre - Children's 5+


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