Publisher: ABC Books

Format: Board Book
Review:

Childrens’ books about the alphabet are a dime a dozen but this one has strengths that many others don’t. Like the iconic television program, it speaks clearly to toddlers. It is free of distracting clutter like glitter and busy background patterns, with each page simply having a Play School character or prop upon a white background. The fact that Humpty Dumpty, Big Ted and the other characters are easily recognisable to my son makes it appealing to him, whereas I enjoy noting that many of the props have a certain home-made appeal, such as the elephant on the ‘e’ page – a plastic jar painted grey with paper patty pan ears. Like the show, it inspires me to (try to) make things out of egg cartons!

Author: Todd Parr

Illustrator: Todd Parr

Publisher: ABC Books

Format: Board book
Review:

This book is about friends. They will visit us when you are sick. They will let you jump on their bed. They will always forgive you when you be mean to them.

Author: Sally Collings

Publisher: HarperCollins

Format: Paperback
Review:

There it is. The big ‘C’ word. Cancer – possibly the most frightening word in the English language.  Except of course, all those words that are attached to it; Chemotherapy, Radiation and Terminal. This book touches on all of these in a realistic and simplistic way. If you find yourself in the situation where you are caring for someone with cancer then this is a book you need to read. While the stories are written by patients - who tell of their heartfelt, frightening and very personal journeys - this book gives carers the honest truth about their patients' feelings, the best way to help and the worst things to say or do. With chapters on physical challenges, spiritual dimensions and the circle of compassion, among others, here real people share their experiences and give genuine support and understanding. Positive certainly does help to find life in the midst of cancer.

Author: Dr Marilyn Glenville PhD

Publisher: Simon & Schuster

Format: Paperback

Review:
This is a useful guide for women trying to improve their chances of getting and staying pregnant. Offers advice on diet and supplements, and information on why some couples find it harder to conceive than others and which fertility tests and treatments are best.