The characters are delightful and throughout the story they learn valuable lessons about sharing, differences and the immense value of friendship. They are very unlikely friends, with one being a Panda and the other being a squirrel, but perhaps that also allows them to accept difference in others. The book consists of 9 chapters, each telling an adventure in the lives of Panda and Squirrel. The illustrations bring these activities to life and have that almost oriental feel in the way they are executed.
This is originally a Belgian title, which has been translated into English. The stories are short and would make ideal bedtime tales, or stories for the classroom. There is a gentle humour that both adult and children will appreciate and overall, the stories give a sense of calm and peace, something that we all need to feel at times. The text is short and accessible, making the book good for early readers to attempt on their own. It is definitely a book that could find a happy home in a KS1 classroom or library, (aged 5-7).
Margaret Pemberton
The Moon is a Ball by Ed Franck
Translated by David Colmer
Illustrated by The Tjong-Khing
Gecko Press
ISBN 9781776574933
£6.99
