Not That Pet!
by Smriti Halls, illustrated by Rosalind Beardshaw
Interest age: 3 to 5
Published by Walker Books, 2021
About this book
Mabel’s mum takes her to the pet shop with a very exciting mission: to choose a pet for the whole family! There’s so much choice, though, that Mabel makes a few rather unusual selections: an elephant that sits on Mum is exchanged for the ants that march their way into Dad’s underpants, an easily surprised skunk and a wriggly snake. None of the pets are quite right, until, in the end, Mabel finds the animal that’s just right for her family…
An enjoyable rhyming book featuring a nicely represented mixed race family, Not That Pet! is perfect for young families considering bring an animal into their lives, and a lovely story about an everyday family and their dynamics. Grandma and Grandpa also live with the family (there’s an adorable cross section of Mabel’s house showing everyone in their separate bedrooms and the lovely details of home) which it’s also good to see, for families with more than two generations under their roof. Lots of fun with Smriti Halls’ trademark sensitive, well-paced rhyming and Rosalind Beardshaw’s lovely, cute and wholesome illustrations.
About the author
More books like this
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Bedtime for Little Digger
by Smriti Halls, illustrated by Sue Hendra
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Tiny Tiger Says Why Can’t I?
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2 to 5 years
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One in a Million
by Smriti Halls, illustrated by Nila Aye
4 to 5 years
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Bun on the Run
by Smriti Halls, illustrated by Chris Jevons
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Lists of recommended reads
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Picture books with South Asian characters
These fantastic books celebrate South Asian families and culture - and everyone can enjoy reading them together.
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Books about pets
Who doesn't love pets? These books are full of furry friends bound to be adored by any child. Just be careful you haven't started something... wouldn't want to end up with an actual bear in your kitchen!
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Mixed families
It's crucial that all children see a variety of families depicted in books, as this reflects the reality of our society. Here is a selection of our favourite books for 0-5 year olds starring mixed-race families.