Herman's Letter by Tom Percival (Bloomsbury)

How far would you go for a friend? In fact, what would you do if your very best friend in the world suddenly had to move far, far away?

In Tom Percival's "Herman's Letter" we find out what happens when Herman - a big and sleepy bear, and his best friend Henry the Racoon are faced with exactly this situation.

Henry (bless him) writes to Herman every day, determined that they're going to be best friends forever. But as Henry details how amazing his new life is, and how many new friends he's made, Herman begins to wonder if there's still any future in their friendship at all. Silly old bear.

Finally, Herman decides to write back but it's too late - the animal postal service is all closed up for the winter, and hibernation time is fast approaching. Can the plucky Herman sum up the courage and stay awake long enough to deliver one very special letter to his best friend?

We loved how this book has lots of 'lift the flap' correspondence between Henry and Herman. It's wonderfully illustrated throughout and we had a giggle at poor Herman's attempts to become a bear-mailman par excellence.

The message is clear, friends are friends no matter what - and if you are separated from yours, there's nothing more wonderful than receiving a letter from them - even if you have to deliver it in person!

Charlotte's best bit: Henry looking after Herman after he just can't stay awake any longer. Zzzzz!

Daddy's Favourite bit: A lovely friendship message that plays out through Henry's letters. Herman is a bit of a dizzy so-and-so but loveable with it.

(Kindly sent to us for review by Bloomsbury Publishing)