It was nice to see our little niece (Charlotte's tiny Cousin) over the Christmas Hols because it reminded me how much things have changed when it comes to the books we love and read, and how Charlotte has developed her own distinct tastes completely independently of my wife and I.
Baby Isabel is at that delightful age where she'll raptly listen to us read and particularly loves animal books.
So I can tell she's going to absolutely love this one, a tale that at first glance shows a fabulous energetic little baby elephant taking his first steps into the wide world but actually contains a lovely little lesson about being happy with who you are.
Little Why (as he's dubbed) is amazed by all the other wonderful creatures he shares his savannah home with. He wonders what it would be like to have long legs like the giraffes, or super speed like the cheetahs - but when Little Why's attention wanders and he falls out of line, there's a very dangerous situation to avoid!
Jonny has put together a fabulous book that is not only beautiful to look at, but contains serious messages delivered rather deftly without feeling preachy. As well as the hugely positive message about self-worth there's the warning that wandering off away from mum and dad when you're a tiny tiddler is not a good idea at all (though let's hope none of us end up in the situation Little Why does! Owch! Close call!)
 |
| Isn't it cool to have a trunk and big flappy ears? You bet! |
Charlotte's favourite bit: Little Why almost becoming a tasty snack for a rather nasty river dweller. Yikes!
Daddy's favourite bit: Beautifully illustrated, delivering its important core messages with aplomb. A fantastic book from a very talented chap indeed! (and thanks for the lovely drawing too, Jonny!)
(Kindly sent to us for review by Little Tiger Press)
"Little Why"
Written and Illustrated by Jonny Lambert
Published by Little Tiger Press
Publication Date (Softcover); 11th February 2016