Dear Bunny - A Bunny Love Story

Written by Michaela Morgan, illustrated by Caroline Jayne Church
Published by Chicken House
Two shy bunnies can't bring themselves to tell each other how they feel - so they each write a letter. Unfortunately, before they get the chance to read what each has written the letters are recycled by a family of mice in need of some fresh bedding. But all ends happily when the mice realise their mistake and put the letter together again. The resulting single letter isn't quite the same, but there's no mistaking the sentiments. Ahhhhh... A lovely story, with collage and little speech bubbles throughout the gorgeous illustrations.
Ten Wriggly, Wiggly Caterpillars

Written and illustrated by Debbie Tarbett
Published by Little Tiger Press
A bright, toddler-friendly introduction to counting and the natural world as ten tiny 3D caterpillars march and munch their way through a novelty counting rhyme. As each page is turned, a caterpillar is left behind until the pleasing 'pop-up-surprise' when all ten are transformed into colourful butterflies.
Drat That Fat Cat!

Written by Pat Thomson, illustrated by Ailie Busby
Published by Hippo
Noisy, bright and funny, this rollicking tale demands to be read aloud for maximum impact. A fat cat gobbles up everything and everyone he meets, until finally he swallows a bee and hiccups everyone out again. There's rhyme, repetition, a loud infectious chorus and even a twist in the tale - perfect for sharing.
How Do Dinosaurs Get Well Soon?

Written by Jane Yolen, illustrated by Mark Teague
Published by Collins
Have you ever wondered how a dinosaur might behave when he's feeling sick? 'Does he drop dirty tissues all over the floor? Does he fling all his medicine out of the door?' Great fun to read aloud and Teague's outsize illustrations of dinosaurs in homely situations are both funny and reassuring.
Once Upon A Time, Upon a Nest

Written by Jonathan Emmett, illustrated by Rebecca Harry
Published by Macmillan
Little Ruby is a bit slower at hatching, eating and swimming than her siblings and Father duck is worried about her progress, but Mother knows that she will flourish 'in her own time' and, of course, she's right. It's sweet, but not sickly and the youngest members of the family will love this comforting story.
The Gruffalo book and soft toy set

Written byJulia Donaldson, illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Published by Macmillan
It makes sense to keep a selection of well-loved books in the toy box, especially if they come with their own soft toy and sometimes it helps to have a prop when you're sharing a story. The ever-popular Gruffalo has been transformed into a loveable cuddly toy, complete with a green wart on his nose. And, of course, the rhyming story about a clever, fearless mouse is a family favourite - or soon will be!
Super Sue

Written by Cressida Cowell and illustrated by Russell Ayto
Published by Walker Books
This book celebrates achievements, which might otherwise be taken for granted - eating up your tea, brushing your teeth, climbing stairs. And to help make the point, each achievement has a flap to pull - irresistible for this age group. A tip: when the book is brand new, some of the tabs can be quite tight, so to avoid damage from over-energetic pulling of the tabs, loosen each one before letting your child loose.
Rory and his Christmas Surprise

Written by Andrew Wolffe, illustrated by Tom Cole
Published by Keppel Publishing
A lovely, magical Christmas adventure starring Rory and his faithful dog, Scruff MacDuff.
Andrew is a Reading Champion. To find out more click here.
Tiger

Written and illustrated by Jane Johnson
Published by Andersen Press
Sammy overcomes his shyness when he's given a wonderful tiger face by a facepainter at a party. He then has the confidence to join in with the others - and by the end of the afternoon is very reluctant to leave. Lovely illustrations help explore the problems of shyness - whether it affects your child or one of their friends.
The World Came to My Place Today

Written by Jo Readman, illustrated by Ley Honor Roberts
Published by the Eden Project
Reading Champion Nicola Morgan recommends this 'because it is very original and a brilliant way of showing young children how the big wide world is actually closer than they think. Really thought-provoking, but also beautifully written and a very clear idea. Every school and home needs one!'
What Colour Is Love?

Written by Linda Strachan and illustrated by David Wojtowycz
Published by Bloomsbury
Little elephant wanders through the jungle asking what colour love is. 'Pink' says flamingo, 'yellow' suggests lion, but of course, only little elephant's mum knows the true answer. Vibrant illustrations and a gentle reassuring text make this ideal bedtime reading.
Linda is a Reading Champion. To find out more click here.
Scarface Claw

Written and illustrated by Lynley Dodd
Published by Puffin
Lynley Dodd's jolly rhyming tales about the wee dog from Donaldson's Dairy have been popular for many years and now Hairy MacLary's sworn-enemy, Scarface Claw has his own story. Young readers will soon be chanting the words along with you and relishing the adventures of the 'leanest, meanest' cat in the neighbourhood.
Postman Bear

Written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler
Published by Macmillan Children's Books
Bear is delivering invitations to all his friends in Acorn Wood and we are invited to lift the flaps to find out who lives where and what the special occasion is. The interactive rhyming text and bold, comic illustrations make this a satisfying and attractive book for pre-schoolers.
Platypus

Written and illustrated by Chris Riddell
Published by Puffin
The first in a series of stories about a cute little duck-billed platypus. The beach is just the place for Platypus to find all sorts of treasures to put in his special box, but why does his favourite curly shell keep disappearing? An engaging read with bold illustrations and a simple toddler-friendly text.
Bumpus Jumpus Dinosaurumpus!

Written by Tony Mitton and illustrated by Guy Parker-Rees
Published by Orchard Books
An impressive variety of vividly coloured dinosaurs romp and stomp in the primordial swamp in a book that just has to be read aloud for maximum effect. Energetic and hugely entertaining, but definitely not a relaxing bedtime read!
Chimp and Zee

Written and illustrated by Catherine and Laurence Anholt
Published by Frances Lincoln
In this first book about the two little monkeys, the mischievous twins go shopping with their Mumkey and get into all sorts of trouble. The combination of bright, action-packed illustrations, exciting adventure and reassuring ending, make this a sure-fire winner.
Flora's Blanket

Written and illustrated by Debi Gliori
Published by Orchard Books
Flora can't sleep until she's found her favourite blanket. This is a simple and familiar story. Enjoy the illustrations - they reveal all kinds of other stories about Flora's family.
Callum's Big Day

Written by Tom Pow, illustrated by Mairi Hedderwick
Published by iynx
It's Callum's birthday and he intends to celebrate in style with a Dress Scottish party.
Tom is a Reading Champion. To find out more click here. Mairi is also a Reading Champion. To find out more click here.
Rory and His Rockpool Adventure

Written by Andrew Wolffe, illustrated by Tom Cole
Published by Keppel Publishing Ltd.
Rory and his delightful little dog Scruff McDuff discover a new friend stranded in a rock pool. It's up to them to save the day - and of course they do.
Andrew is a Reading Champion. To find out more click here.