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| By Damien Jones |
With The Yuletide season fast approaching here a few of my favourite picture books of recent months, some have a Christmas theme some are set to bring a little sunshine into your life on these long cold winter nights.
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| By Jo Byatt |
Flora and the Penguin by Molly Idle – Published by Chronicle Books
A stunning wordless lift-the-flap story set in a magical
icy landscape. Flora and her Penguin twirl, glide and leap off the pages as
they explore the boundaries of their friendship in this breath-taking balletic
picture book. I have rarely seen such a clever and subtle use of the lift the flap format. Completely magical from beginning to end.
Snow by Sam Usher
Published by Templar Publishing
Set to be a modern classic this book perfectly encapsulates
the silent crisp magical moment in which the first snowfall settles. A
beautiful observation of a grandson’s special relationship with his
grandfather. A must have.
Katie's London
Christmas by James Mayhew Published by Orchard Books
This glittering traditional tale deftly illustrated by
Mayhew whisks us away on a spectacular sleigh bound adventure across London, as
Katie and her brother help a delightfully rotund Father Christmas deliver
Christmas gifts to a very special Royal resident.
The Twelve Days of
Christmas illustrated by Britta Teckentrup Published by Little Tiger Press
Clever cut-away pages reveal 12 beautifully illustrated
gifts, encouraging a special shared reading experience as the story builds to a
magnificent climax. Perfect for reading together or singing along to on
Christmas Eve.
Snow by Walter de la
Mare Published by Faber Children’s Books
Exquisite Scandinavian style illustrations by Carolina perfectly
compliment this traditional poem. A celebration of family, nature and the magic
of winter. One for sharing under a warm blanket.
Bear Hug by Katharine
McEwen Published by Templar Publishing
A perfect introduction to the seasons, this picturesque
picture book follows a family of bears as they prepare for hibernation and the
arrival of spring. Heart melting collage style illustrations draw the reader right into
the depths of the forest. Truly magnificent.
Is there a dog in
this book? By Viviane Schwarz Published by Walker Books
For all those little ones hoping for a puppy this Christmas
this could be the perfect solution. This outstanding bright and imaginative
picture book contains fabulous flaps to lift and surprise pop out features
creating the most wonderful interactive and immersive story experience.
Santa's Noisy House - By Sebastien Braun Published by Campbell Books
Perfect for managing the anticipation of imminent festivities, this book has intermittent prompts so small readers can press the corresponding sound effect button thus bringing the story to life. Sebastien Braun Braun has created a joyful, bright and engaging Yuletide adventure as we join Father Christmas as he prepares for the big day.
A completely absorbing festive treat, wander though the wintery woodland making friends with the forest residence whilst helping them to find their Christmas gifts hidden under the flaps on each page.
This fabulous picture book culminates with a breathtakingly spectacular pop-up Christmas tree scene.
The essence of Christmas wonderment all wrapped up in one book.
A Good Home for Max –
Published by Chronicle Books Published by Chronicle
In this enchanting tale Tabi the mouse takes great care to keep
the shop he lives in ship shape, but realising his friend Max the toy dog is
being overlooked he sets about finding his beloved companion a new home just in
time for Christmas. With charming echoes of 'Corduroy' this will quickly become a family favourite.
Blown Away – By Rob
Biddulph Published by Harper Collins
One of my new favourites, Penguin Blue is thoroughly enjoying his new kite when he is
unexpectedly whisked away by a gust of wind. Where will he end up and who will
he meet along the way? A supremely stylish and humorous picture book to read
again and again. We are especially fond of Clive the polar bear! We want more Penguin Blue, the coolest Penguin on the ice floe.
What a Wonderful
World – Based on the song sung by Louis Armstrong Illustrated by Tim
Hopgood Published by Oxford University
Press
A delightfully vivid splash of colour in the depths of winter, this
book is brimming with joy and optimism. Filled with bright vibrant
illustrations this charming homage to that famous song with its universal
appeal will make a charming gift.
AMAZING CHRISTMAS BOOK COMPETITION
via Steve Lenton!
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Christmas portrait by Dougal Trump
