Nosy Crow. ISBN 9781788002653 £11.99
A warm family tale that will resonate with mums and children everywhere. Mrs Elephant is always telling Toby that he is her ‘big boy’, now that baby sister Iris has come along. Whilst Toby relishes his growing independence and finds success with pouring his own milk and reading his own stories, some things still remain tricky and he wishes his mum had time to help him with his buttons and wellies and bum wiping. This story offers opportunities for discussion with children about sharing their successes and highlighting determination and perseverance when mastering new and tricky things. It could be a great tool for building self-esteem and a have-a go-attitude in children aged 2-6 years. The illustrations support the text in their warmth and humour and portrayal of a busy family life. The love the characters have for each other shines through with entwined trunks and gentle touching gestures. I would thoroughly recommend this as a gift for a toddler when a new baby comes along and for use in nursery and reception classes when encouraging independence and self care skills.
Jane Macleod