Little Tiger ISBN 9781788815680 £11.99
An attractive picture book. Just as Frank the sausage dog is about to fall asleep, he is visited by Mouse who cannot sleep because she cannot find her bedtime book. She and Frank set out to find it. Their investigation involves encounters with Bella the Cat, Owl and Baby Hedgehog. Eventually the book is found, and Frank devises a new way of helping Mouse to get to sleep. This is a charming story which will appeal to young children. There is a good range of animal characters and the story encourages us to understanding other people’s motivations and feelings. Frank’s kindness and consideration is heartwarming, and the resolution of the mystery is interesting. The book provides opportunities to discuss a variety of issues including what to do if you lose something, empathy, adapting behaviour, routines, sharing, and favourite books. The bold illustrations are an important part of the book. Many involve starry or black night time backgrounds. I particularly enjoyed the pages where Frank and Mouse are scurrying and panting as they search for the book, and where Frank is sniffing the trail. The final double page is a peaceful, soothing scene where Mouse and Frank are fast asleep beside each other, as Owl flies overhead. A perfect bedtime read for children aged 3-6.
Brenda Marshall
