Age Group: 3 - 6 Years, 6 - 9 Years

Description: In this deeply moving picture book, Michael Rosen explores his own grief after the death of his son Eddie. Speaking directly to the reader with honesty and clarity, Rosen explains what sadness feels like, how it can change from day to day, and that it never entirely disappears. Through brilliant collaboration with illustrator Quentin Blake, the words are paired with art that captures both the heaviness of grief and the moments of lightness that can coexist with it—memories, laughter, and small pleasures. The book reassures children and adults alike that sadness is a natural, necessary part of life and that it’s okay to talk about difficult emotions. At its heart, it is about love—how the depth of sorrow reflects the depth of that love—and finding ways to live alongside it. A powerful, compassionate work that opens doors to conversations about feelings, loss, and healing. The Octonauts and the Giant Squid Meomi Fantasy, Adventure, Animal Kingdom, Friendship Ocean, Exploration, Rescue, Teamwork The Octonauts, a team of brave undersea explorers, receive a distress call from a giant squid whose tentacle is stuck. Without hesitation, Captain Barnacles, Kwazii, Peso, and the rest of the crew set out in the Octopod to help. Along the way, they encounter fascinating sea creatures, navigate dark underwater caves, and work through unexpected challenges. True to Octonauts style, the team uses problem-solving, cooperation, and their unique skills to free the squid safely. The adventure is sprinkled with fun facts about marine life, teaching young readers while keeping the excitement high. Meomi’s playful illustrations bring the underwater world vibrantly to life, with plenty of delightful details to spot on each page. The story blends action, humor, and science, while delivering a positive message about compassion, helping others, and respecting ocean creatures—no matter their size. Ladybug Girl and the Rescue Dogs David Soman Family, Friendship, Animal Kingdom, Inspiration Dogs, Rescue, Initiative, Kindness Lulu, also known as Ladybug Girl, visits the farmers’ market with her mother and discovers a local animal rescue group raising money for dogs in need. Inspired, Lulu decides she must help. Donning her Ladybug Girl persona, she rallies her friends to perform tricks, sell crafts, and spread the word about adopting pets. They meet a variety of rescue dogs—each with its own story and personality—and learn the importance of caring for animals. Through teamwork, creativity, and determination, Lulu and her friends raise awareness and bring joy to both people and pups. The book is filled with vibrant illustrations and heartfelt moments, capturing the spirit of volunteerism and the joy that comes from helping those who cannot help themselves. It’s an uplifting celebration of compassion, friendship, and the belief that even small hands and little ideas can make a big difference. Little Tiger Starts School! (Experiences Matter) Sue Graves Early Learning, Family, School, Emotions & Behaviour School, First Day, Confidence, Friendship Little Tiger is excited but nervous about his very first day of school. With gentle encouragement from his parents, he packs his bag, puts on his new clothes, and heads off to meet his teacher and classmates. At first, everything feels unfamiliar—new rules, new faces, and new routines—but soon Little Tiger begins to enjoy himself. He paints pictures, plays games, listens to a story, and even makes a new friend. By the end of the day, he can’t wait to tell his family all about it. This reassuring picture book is part of the Experiences Matter series, designed to support children through important milestones. With warm illustrations and a simple, engaging narrative, it addresses common first-day worries while celebrating the excitement of learning and making friends. It’s a comforting read for any child (and parent) preparing for the adventure of starting school. If you’d like, I can now also create matching 150-word condensed versions so these align with your earlier entries in shorter list tables. Would you like me to do that?