Tuesday 11 September 2018

Two very special new releases tackle hefty subjects in a thought-provoking way, coming up from Tiny Owl Publishing

Today we're highlighting a recent release, and an upcoming title from awesome publishers Tiny Owl...
Tiny by name, but mighty by nature, this independent publisher is leading the charge with a selection of truly incredible, beautiful and diverse titles that provide thought-provoking subject material, moving beyond the usual 'same old, same old' subjects we all too often see in children's picture books.

The first title we're looking at is Anahita Teymorian's fantastic "There's Room for Everyone" - which is published on 21st September 2018 (so not long to wait!)

Anahita sensitively tackles the subject of migration in a thoroughly imaginative and heart-warming way.

A child grows and discovers the world. As he lies awake at night, he sees there’s enough room in the sky for all the stars and the moon. 

When he visits the ocean, he sees there is enough room for all the fish, even for the whales. 

As he grows up, he doesn’t understand why people fight for space. Surely, if we are kinder to one another, there will always be room for everyone?

The strong message coupled with truly gorgeous painted illustrations sets children up for a better understanding of the migrant crisis, and a need for tolerance, compassion and love for their fellow humans, regardless of creed, colour or origin. 

Absolutely fantastic stuff as you'd expect from Tiny Owl. 

"There's Room for Everyone" by Anahita Teymorian is out on 21st September, published by Tiny Owl (kindly supplied for review). 

Again, tackling a hefty subject with sensitivity and care is "Caged" by Duncan Annand. 

This wordless and highly imaginative picture book tells the story of bluebird, who builds her nest in the forest and leads a carefee existence. 

Until two eccentric gentlemen come along with a more ambitious construction project in mind: a vast palatial building, made from birdcages filled with colourful parrots. 

As the trees come down and the structure goes up, the bluebird watches on. More and more caged birds are consigned to their fate until at last a huge dome completes the work. But when the celebrating architects go in to admire their creation, the little bluebird brings their ambitions crashing down around them.

A stunning story that lets younger children interpret the important messages about the destruction of our environment, unfair imprisonment and how even the smallest voice or set of actions can form a protest and make a difference. 

This is a strong and vital story that can really help your little ones make sense, and retain a sense of hope that there are better ways to live in our world. (Does anyone want to send a copy to Donald Trump?)

"Caged" by Duncan Annand is out now, published by Tiny Owl Books (again kindly supplied for review).