The Big Book of Verse for Aussie Kids is a wonderful, fun and inspiring book of poetry for kids and parents to read and, surprisingly, it will bring back happy memories to any adult reading it. It is full of quirky, catchy and rhyming poems written by some of Australia’s great poets from Banjo Paterson to CJ Dennis, Max Fatchen and more. The Big Book of Verse will have your kids laughing and wanting to hear more, and be intrigued by an amazing collection of written words. Beautifully arranged, this book is a keepsake for every family.
Humpty visits his friends Maurice, Big Ted and Little Ted in their newly built houses. One is made of sticks, one of straw and one made of bricks. Humpty develops a bad case of the sneezes and you might just guess what happens next. The sturdy board book is full of colourful photos of well-loved characters who tell the story in authentic Play School style.
Lara Goes to Pa’s is a fun little rhyming book for ages two years and older. The illustrations are very detailed and neatly coloured in. As well as the colours of the bright ribbons used to turn the cardboard pages, children learn about pool safety. Lara learns the rule about never entering the pool area alone, asking for help instead. Lara meets someone special who needs her help, called Dana the dragonfly. I like this book because Lara cares about her new friend Dana, they both learn about being safe near the pool (and my name features in the book).
Splat is hoping for a really big present for Christmas. With the realization that perhaps he hasn’t been good enough to deserve a special gift, he sets about helping his Mum prepare for the celebrations. The anticipation proves unsettling, and Splat’s hope fades. What happens on Christmas morning? Scotton’s finely detailed and engaging illustrations have a depth to them that the story sadly lacks. There is room for the reader to explore their own imaginative conclusion, but the tale seems slightly empty and unfinished.
