Lion Practice

If Emma Carlisle's first picturebook is typical of her work, it promises a future feast for the youngest readers.

Heroine Laura likes to rampage around as she 'practices' being various animals. As she copies the behaviour of each animal she can be noisy, messy, athletic and (occasionally) quiet. There's a new sibling in the house and we get the impression that Laura needs to make sure that Mum and Dad still remember that she's around and needs attention.

The illustrations are child-orientated, using crayon techniques, filled with movement, and funny - every toddler will love the naughty bathroom bottom scene - with plenty of detail for readers to discover and discuss. A lovely book and hopefully the first of many to come.