In the realm of the Snow Leopard, in the cold crisp mountain air, this amazingly elusive predator reigns supreme.

Those of you who watched both of the BBC's "Planet Earth" documentaries will be familiar with the work of Justin Anderson and his amazing wildlife photography and filming, teaming up here with Patrick Benson for a dazzling and evocative look at the amazing Snow Leopard in "Snow Leopard, Grey Ghost of the Mountain".

Justin and Patrick have teamed up to 'storify' the amazing life and habitat of one of the world's most well known but often most misunderstood big cats.

In the harsh environment of the Himalayas, the snow leopard uses its excellent camouflage to stalk mountain goats and other creatures, picking its way carefully across rocky ravines and treacherous boulders, looking after its young and teaching them to tread in its velvety footsteps.

We loved the way this one instantly brought home the atmosphere and the amazing spectacle of these creatures in their native habitat in such a brilliant way. Not exactly a Christmas book but one that's perfect for this time of year as the first wisps of snow threaten to settle.

This is a story that sang out to us with the sweetest voice possible with such an inspired and original idea...

'Owl Babies' was one of those books that I was utterly convinced I'd already reviewed for this place, so when Charlotte grabbed it in this week's library run, I was quite pleased when I realised that we had read it before but never covered it.

'Owl Babies' is the story of three adorable owls, Sarah, Percy and Bill. When Mummy Owl leaves the nest one night, the three little owls snuggle up waiting for her return. They fuss, they worry (and in little Bill's case, say "I want my mummy!" a lot). So what happens as the night draws in and mummy is nowhere to be seen?

You'll have to read the book to find out what happens, of course. Owl Babies has won many awards and it's not difficult to see why. Martin Waddell's simple story spliced with Patrick Benson's moody and dark illustrations work so well, and as you can imagine, little Bill is every child's favourite ("So cute!" says Charlotte!)

Charlotte's best bit: Bill saying "I want my Mummy!" on every page (which she repeats in a very loud owl voice)

Daddy's favourite bit: Lovely moody illustrations.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars