Great Books Guide 2021: 4-5

Arlo, The Lion Who Couldn't Sleep

Author: Catherine Rayner
Publisher: Macmillan
Interest age: 2-4

A perfect bedtime book, Arlo, The Lion Who Couldn’t Sleep is tenderly illustrated in watercolour as always by Rayner, giving readers gentle pages to fall into and inspire soft, reassuring dreams.

Meet the Oceans

Author: Caryl Hart Illustrator: Bethan Woollvin
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Interest age: 4-8

A vibrant picture book all about the incredible bodies of water which make up most of our planet, providing young readers with a lively introduction to the importance of looking after the world's oceans.

Just One of Those Days

Author: Jill Murphy
Publisher: Macmillan
Interest age: 2-5

Everyone in the Bear household is having a difficult day - even Baby Bear! Luckily, it's nothing a pair of cosy pyjamas and pizza for tea can't solve.

Pirate Stew

Author: Neil Gaiman Illustrator: Chris Riddell
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Interest age: 4-8

A little boy and his sister are surprised to say the least when their babysitter turns out to be a huge, bearded pirate - and he's invited all his friends round for stew! A great book for storytime with brilliant illustration by former Children’s Laureate Chris Riddell.

I Say Boo, You Say Hoo

Author: John Kane
Publisher: Templar Books
Interest age: 4-8

The rules are simple: if you see the colour blue, you must shout out Stinky Poo! If you see a tree, you have to shout ME! Sounds easy enough - but things get sillier and sillier in this hilarious call and response book.

What Happened To You?

Author: James Catchpole Illustrator: Karen George
Publisher: Faber
Interest age: 4-8

Joe just wants to play pirates, but the other children notice that he only has one leg and start asking him a barrage of questions. A stunningly clever book with a clear message that someone who happens to be disabled is not a teaching tool, with practical advice for parents on handling questions about this.

I Really Really Need A Wee

Author: Karl Newson Illustrator: Duncan Beedie
Publisher: Little Tiger
Interest age: 2-3

Whilst she's out and about, little Bush Baby suddenly really, REALLY needs a wee! A funny book that relates the universal experience of needing a wee and not being able to find anywhere to go, I Really Really Need a Wee reminds readers of the importance of going before you leave the house.

Spaghetti Hunters

Author: Morag Hood
Publisher: Two Hoots
Interest age: 2-5

Duck is looking for his spaghetti, but he can’t find it anywhere! Fortunately, Tiny Horse, self-proclaimed spaghetti hunter, has all the kit to help them find the elusive pasta.

Barbara Throws A Wobbler

Author: Nadia Shireen
Publisher: Puffin
Interest age: 3-5

Nadia Shireen’s brilliant book about temper tantrums is a definite must-have for any parents of 3-5 year olds who may have had a wobbler or two. As ever, Shireen’s humour and empathy with little ones shines through.

Dog Gone

Author: Rob Biddulph
Publisher: HarperCollins
Interest age: 4-5

When Edward Pugglesworth loses his owner, Dave, in the woods, he's sure he's done for - but maybe his dog walk hasn't gone as wrong as he thinks?

The Hospital Dog

Author: Julia Donaldson Illustrator: Sara Ogilvie
Publisher: Macmillan
Interest age: 2-5

This is the charming story of Dot the dalmatian, a very special dog indeed, who finds out just how important her hospital visits are. The story is told in rhyming couplets which are delicious to read aloud and share with children, and the bright, inclusive illustrations are full of life, warmth and expression.

Ned and the Great Garden Hamster Race

Author: Kim Hillyard
Publisher: Ladybird
Interest age: 3-6

There’s only one thing on Ned’s mind today and that’s winning. A funny, heartwarming story about a little hamster, a big race and the value of kindness.

Not That Pet!

Author: Smriti Halls Illustrator: Rosalind Beardshaw
Publisher: Walker Books
Interest age: 3-5

An enjoyable rhyming book with wholesome illustrations, 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.

I Am Every Good Thing

Author: Derrick Barnes Illustrator: Gordon C. James
Publisher: Farshore
Interest age: 4-8
Reading age: 7+

The little boy depicted in this gorgeous book is a ball of energy; a gentleman and a scholar; a hilarious friend and a good brother. But, sometimes, he is afraid of the world around him. A stunning visual poem dedicated to supporting and loving black boys.

Great Books Guide 2021: for 4 to 5 year olds