In this funny and heart-warming picture book, meet a shy little giraffe named Kipekee. Shes a bit different from the other giraffes she was born with no spots. Inspired by a real-life spotless giraffe from a popular news story, born in 2023 at Brights Zoo in Tennessee, USA, Kipekee is one of the rarest giraffes on the planet. But being one of a kind isnt easy. And as Kipekee looks around her on her first day at school, she feels like she doesnt fit in anywhere. With the help of her new friends, she tries some of the animal classes, scrambling clumsily up the rocks with llamas and stretching her twiggy legs to high jump with the gazelles. But none of them feel quite right. She even tries to disguise herself, hoping that the others will accept her. Eventually, Kipekee realises that, although she doesnt look like the others, she fits right in, and that her differences should be celebrated. And shes delighted to find that shes accepted spots or no spots. Perfect for preparing kids for their first day at school, this is a kind and delicate introduction to relationships and the value of difference, at a time when little ones are first forming important relationships with their peers. A touching story about inclusivity and looking beyond what people look like, it teaches kids that we are all wonderfully unique in our own ways. Autorid: Peter Millett, Alison Hawkins
Understanding English is a series of topic-based study books for children in Key Stage 2, providing rigorous practice of key subject areas. Each topic contains a concise summary of the information required by the National Curriculum, making the series ideal for use as preparation for the Key Stage 2 tests. Each book is a stand-alone resource, so children can either work through them in order or focus on individual aspects of the subject. Together, the eight books support the whole of the Key Stage 2 English curriculum, providing a solid foundation for success in English. Fiction meets the National Curriculum requirements for Key Stage 2 English, and covers the following areas: genre, dialogue, structure, themes, conventions, traditional tales, fables, play scripts, story openings, modern fiction, language for effect, and book recommendations. This book describes the features that make for a captivating story, including the use of character, suspense, setting and plot. Key features of Understanding English include: an 'Explanation' to introduce each topic; activities to consolidate and revise knowledge and skills; thought-provoking facts to foster a love of learning beyond the National Curriculum; 'Now you try' activities to develop children's understanding of English outside the classroom. Autorid: Carol Matchett
Grow Big, Little Seed is a tender, hopeful picture book about disappointment, miscarriage and pregnancy after loss. Illustrated by the extraordinary papercut artist, Sarah Capon (@eyepicturedthis), its perfect for children aged 2 to 7, and any family celebrating their new baby. Exciting things were happening in Ninas home. While we wait, said Mum, lets plant a seed and watch it grow. When Nina plants a pumpkin seed, she imagines herself and a little sister playing in the leaves of a large pumpkin plant. Ninas mum is pregnant and it seems that Ninas dreams may soon come true. But despite Ninas loving care, her seedling stops growing as her mothers pregnancy ends early. As time goes by, her mother is pregnant again, and Nina finds the courage to plant another seed. This time, Ninas seedling grows and grows, and her family embraces a joyful surprise with not one but two rainbow babies. The perfect picture book to share with any growing family. Autorid: Bec Nanayakkara, Sarah Capon
'Someone recently said to me, in reference to my poetry podcast, that you'd think poetry would be more popular than ever, in the twenty-first century, because people don't have a lot of time and 'novels are often quite big while poems are often quite small'. I referred them to Doctor Who's Tardis.' Frank Skinner wants you to read more poetry. Wait, wait - don't stop reading. Whether you're a frequent poetry reader or haven't read any since sixth form, Frank's infectious passion for language, rhythm and metre will win you over and provide you with the basic tools you need to tackle any poem. In this short, easy-to-digest and delightful book, Frank guides us through the twists and turns of 'Pad, pad' by Stevie Smith, a short, seemingly simple poem that contains multitudes of meaning and a deceptive depth of emotion. Revel in the mastery of Stevie Smith's choice of words, consider the eternal mystery of the speaker of the poem and be moved by rhyming couplets like you never have before. Give it a go. You never know, you might even enjoy it. Autorid: Frank Skinner
Following the life of Jesus from the crib to the cross, to the resurrection and the promise that he will come again, Simon Ponsonby explores what this person and this life means for us today. Emphasising both the humanity and divinity of Jesus, Ponsonby showcases what is so amazing about Jesus, helping readers to rediscover their awe and wonder again. Marshalling the multi-faceted names and descriptions of Jesus in Scripture the King of the Jews, the Good Shepherd, the Lamb of God, the Living Water, the Bridegroom, High King of Heaven, Lord and Saviour, the Way, the Truth and the Life and many more this book reveals the one who is God come to us, to be God with us, to show God for us. Amazed by Jesus helps to restore our vision of Jesus and expand it, so we can know him better and see him as he is. Jesus changed and is changing everything he is amazing. This is a clarion call from Ponsonby to the Church to go back to our first love, to go deeper and truly experience the living water a discovery that will impact on the whole world. Autorid: Simon Ponsonby
What was Cinderellas fairy godmother doing before the magical ball? Find out in this charming tale from the exciting picture book duo, Abie Longstaff and Leire Martín. The little fairies in Fairyland all grow up to help humans as a Fairy Godparent. All are born with a special, useful skills . . . except Dazzle. None of the other fairies think Dazzle's talent for making balloons, party horns and sparkly surprises is all that helpful! But little does she know, a human called Cinderella needs some help getting ready for a party . . . Perfect for fans of fairy tales with a fresh twist, join Dazzle on her sparkling journey and discover how she became the fairy who changed Cinderellas life! Autorid: Abie Longstaff, Leire Martin
Though Prince Edward Island may be the smallest Canadian province, its size can be deceiving. This gem of the Atlantic coast is full of history and secrets to discover. Charlottetown, the provincial capital, has the distinction of being the birthplace of Canadian Confederation (in 1864) as well as - more recently - having hosted the conference to propose constitutional reforms (in 1992). PEI is also the home of Anne of Green Gables, the famous protagonist of Lucy Maud Montgomery's tales of lush, rolling countryside. Map size: 27"X39"
