Winner:JOINT GOLD - Best Pre-Schooler Book 3-5 Years
Who:Macmillan Children’s Books
What:Gozzle, by Julia Donaldson, Illustrated by Sara Ogilvie
Why:
We might have got a little bit wet around the eyes reading this beautifully illustrated story from the mighty and playful pen of Julia Donaldson and the brilliantly evocative illustrations of Sara Ogilvie. This heart-warming story of an unlikely duo – a bear and a gosling- is full of humour, warmth and touching moments, making it the perfect book to cuddle up with after a long day at nursery or just a cosy moment on the sofa. Our judges loved this story and could see it becoming an instant classic.
Moving, funny and perfectly pitched for pre-schoolers, this is a sure fire classic that parents will be reading for decades to come.
I love the Julia Donaldson and Sara Ogilvie recipe! There is so much feeling conveyed by these brilliant illustrations and the words are just wonderful.
Winner:JOINT GOLD - Best Pre-Schooler Book 3-5 Years
Who:Nosy Crow
What:One Cat, Two Cats by Jonathan Emmett, Illustrated by Rob Hodgson
Why:
Yes! A fun and funny way to help children learn to count! Our judges loved this bold, interactive, lift-the-flap, pop-up counting book, that takes away the often repetitive nature of familiarising your kids with numbers. The panel could see that the bright, graphic illustrations showing numerous cats of personality would really entertain kids and that the lifting of flaps to find the cats would help make counting a fun mission.
A really great way to approach early learning and make counting feel like part of the fun.
It’s the cat’s googly eyes that get me! Such a fun, interactive book that will intrigue children with its tabs, flaps and fold-out pages.
Winner:JOINT SILVER - Best Pre-Schooler Book 3-5 Years
Who:Eco-Able
What:Away at Christmas by Dani Seatter, Illustrated by Anna Stead
Why:
Our judges were drawn in by this beautifully designed, sustainably produced book that is made from 100% recycled, carbon-balanced paper, eco-friendly inks and is plastic laminate free. The JDA panel loved the delicate, magical illustrations and the core message about remembering to take care of our planet and its wildlife at Christmas time and all the time. A lovely book to read around the festive months and beyond that deals with environmental issues in a light yet inspiring way.
A beautifully illustrated book that shifts the focus from endless gifts and packaging to our wildlife friends. Lovely.
Sometimes Christmas feels like endless consumerism and piles of waste – this book feels like a lovely reset that will get kids thinking positively about doing their bit for the planet.
Winner:JOINT SILVER - Best Pre-Schooler Book 3-5 Years
Who:Hachette
What:The Camel Who Had the Hump by Rachel Bright, Illustrated by Jim Field
Why:
We’ve all experienced a hump day and this book is perfect for reading to kids who might have had to work their own way through the grumps. The JDA panel loved Cuthbert the camel who is hilariously grouchy but finally finds his smile thanks to the help of a new friend. This is a wonderful story that teaches kids about feelings, friendship and finding happiness. The judges loved the humorous and endearing illustrations and really liked the extra-large format of this book that makes it feel all the more immersive and special.
Love the rhyming text that feels lively and original. I can see this book being requested time and time again.
A lovely uplifting story with engaging illustrations that children will really connect with.
