Lincoln Children’s Books ISBN 9781786030238 £11.99
Juniper Jupiter is a little girl super-hero, but, as we are repeatedly told, ‘It’s no big deal’. Actually, maybe it is – we are, after all, used to our superheroes being mostly male. She has all the usual super-hero powers being super brave, super strong, super smart and can, of course, fly. But she realises she is lacking a side-kick, (that one will need explaining to young readers!). After many auditioning for the role, her faithful dog Peanut is the one who fits the bill perfectly. I have to admit that all the way through I thought that the androgynously illustrated single parent was going to be the chosen one, but I was wrong. It was only when I looked back, (as others will), that I realised the dog had been there all the time. Maybe there’s a message for us to look first to our nearest and dearest when we’re seeking a true friend. Age range: 2-5.
Pam Dowson, retired primary teacher and PGCE tutor
