Picture books where creatures feature
Whether they're sly cats, grumpy trolls, or even raccoons baking apple cakes – these picture books are populated by eccentric and memorable creatures that young readers will adore.
Where Have You Been, Little Cat? by Richard Jones
What do our cats get up to when they're on their own? Little Cat has come back from her exciting outdoor adventures and is asked by her owner all about her day. Was she happy? Was she kind? This is a delightful story with divine illustrations that will encourage toddlers to talk about the many activities that make up their day, as well as fall in love with this very cute little cat.
Ages 2 and up.
Mina by Matthew Forsythe
Mina and her father live peacefully amongst nature inside a hollow tree stump. The two mice are effortlessly on the same page – that is – until one day Mina's father brings home an unexpected 'friend'. Mina's father says she can trust them (spoiler alert – it's a cat!), but Mina is not so sure ...
This is a gorgeous book about trust and how we proceed when relationships are tested. The colour palette and humour in every illustration is enchanting.
Ages 3 and up.
The Three Billy Goats Gruff by Mac Barnett & Jon Klassen
A story that needs no introduction by a duo that need no introduction, but we'll proceed just the same! This is a delicious retelling of the story we all know and love: a troll living under a bridge, with a particular penchant for honey glazed goat rump, sets his sights on the three Billy Goats Gruff attempting to make it across, but has he underestimated his prey?
Mac Barnett's wry humour is perfect for this retelling as are Jon Klassen's inimitable illustrations.
Ages 3 and up.
A Perfect Wonderful Day with Friends by Philip Waechter
Our story begins when one hot summer's day, Raccoon decides to bake an apple cake but soon realises he has no eggs. This is no trouble though; his friends will soon sort him out. Raccoon's quest for fresh eggs soon begins a day spent in the company of friends. They meander in meadows, lend one another hands with chores that need completing, and savour detours for delicious berries. As the day draws to a close, friends Raccoon, Badger, Crow, Fox and Bear finally turn for home to make declious apple cakes!
This nostalgic story of friendship explores a warm and relaxing summer's day where anything is possible. You'll never want this perfect wonderful day to end.
Ages 3 and up.
Big Hedgehog and Little Hedgehog Take an Evening Stroll by Britta Teckentrup
A slow, spacious story about a big hedgehog and a little hedgehog who are making their way home at twilight. It's a beautiful tribute to being lost in thought, finding joy in dawdling on our daily journeys, and enjoying the company of the ones we love.
A simpy stunning story to remind readers to slow down.
Ages 3 and up.
Snap! by Anna Walker
Within the pages of Snap!, a cheeky and curious yellow-green frog is your guide for everything from making fish friends to escaping snapping crocodiles! There's never a dull moment within these pages as the vibrancy and movement of Walker's illustrations seems to provide an infectious energy and enthusasim.
This little frog will have every young reader enthusiastically interacting with the sounds and actions surrounding pond life and there's plenty to spot and count.
Ages 0 and up.
Ninni Yabini by Cheryl Kickett-Tucker & Tyrown Waigana
Ninni Yabini tells the story of a Mother and Father swan whose baby becomes lost during the night. Written in Noongar and English, the story explores themes of belonging while paying tribute to the power and beauty of nature.
Ages 2 and up.
