We recently discovered books by the author Amber Stewart when we came across the book "Little by Little" at the library. Co-incidentally, we were invited by The Groovy Giraffe to review two more titles by the same author ("Just Like Tonight" and "Bramble the Brave"), and we were of course game to do so!
So here's why we like books by Ms Stewart:
:: They have lovely, meaningful story lines. "Bramble the Brave" is about a little mole who is brave and has a sense of adventure. However, her sense of adventure doesn't apply when it comes to mealtimes, and she is a fussy eater that eats nothing but berries! The story follows Bramble as her parents try in vain to get her to try new foods. Eventually she gains the courage to sample new tastes, and finds that other foods can be just as delicious.
In "Just Like Tonight" we meet Button, a little bear cub, who worries about having bad dreams about a tree that he sees that resembles a big, scary bear. However, Daddy bear is able to reassure him with family stories, and Button is able to fall asleep with all these warm memories. And instead of having nightmares, his sleep is filled with sweet dreams.
:: The series of books cover various topics relevant to the difficulties and challenges that children may face, from fussy eating and night time fears, to starting school and learning a new skill. These are all issues that most children would face, and reading these titles are great springboards for discussing them with your kids!
:: These stories are simple enough to stay in a child's mind. And possibly have a positive impact on them. Junior J has been unwell for the past week or so, and has been most difficult during meal-times (to the point that he would need alot of coaxing to start on a meal, and would then declare he is full after taking a few bites). So imagine my surprise today, when he said that he would eat his porridge (something he refused to eat just the day before), because he is willing "to try new things like Bramble". I guess sometimes we may think that what we read or talk about may not register in their little minds, but these stories may actually help!
:: The stories are probably suitable for those three and up, but can also be appreciated by younger toddlers. Junior J loves listening to these stories being read to him, and Lil J also joins in when we read these books. Being a toddler with a short attention span, he does not follow through the whole story, but does listen when I simplify the story for him.
:: These stories are accompanied by lovely illustrations! The illustrations by Layn Marlow are simple and beautiful. Lil J loves pointing out various things in the books, like flowers and butterflies, and I find both boys sometimes browsing these books on their own.
If you're interested, The Groovy Giraffe stocks quite a few titles by Amber Stewart (remember to type "mm05" at checkout to get an additional 5% off their already discounted prices), and I think these would also make lovely Christmas gifts!
They are also giving away a copy of "Bramble the Brave" and "Just Like Tonight" each to one blog reader. Just follow the instructions in the Rafflecopter widget below to enter in the giveaway (please remember to leave your email address in the comments so we can contact you if you win!):
a Rafflecopter giveaway
PS: You can follow our book recommendations over here at our Facebook page.
PPS: The usual disclaimer. We received a copy of the two titles for purpose of the review. No monetary compensation was received, and all opinions are our own.
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