Pom Pom the Champion
Sophy Henn
Puffin Books
Pom Pom the adorable bear is back and he’s all at sixes and sevens: that’s what comes of having SO many toys. Thanks to his mum’s ‘let’s play a game’ suggestion though, he’s discovered his competitive streak and for Pom Pom it’s all about winning. That will certainly sound familiar if you have dealings with young children.

Having won the game, he goes on to win ‘being first at getting ready to go out’ – admirable! – followed by fastest shopping trolley packer (OOPS! Pom Pom)…

fastest library book finisher – maybe not so clever either…

When he hits the park, Pom Pom encounters Baxter and friends on scooters but they leave him standing when it comes to a race. Swinging highest and climbing are equally disastrous for the young bear: so what about catch? Drop would have been better for our little Pom Pom who storms off in a big huff: “It’s NOT fair! I’m a winner! I’m going to GO and WIN on my OWN!” he shouts. And that’s exactly what he does, though it’s not very satisfying and certainly no fun. It’s a good job then that his friends are on hand to show him a better way of being a winner …

Another sure winner (couldn’t resist that) for Sophy Henn. Her use of subdued shades but strong colours is perfect for the story and especially apposite for the underlying messages that youngsters need to come to understand: winning isn’t always all important especially when that winning isn’t well done.
Pom Pom is one cute character and the perfect vehicle for conveying life’s lessons to the very young.
A must have book for all early years settings and families with young children.

Not Without My Whale
Billy Coughlan and Villie Karabatzia
Maverick Arts Publishing
Arnold has a pet – a whale; he also has a problem – a whale sized one – on account of his reluctance to go to school without said pet. Fortunately however, he has a friend, Dora, resourceful and determined. “I think we can manage,” she confidently assures Arnold’s relations all of whom are convinced school and whales don’t go together. And manage they do .

But then comes assembly, followed by maths. Dora manages both situations beautifully and I’m sure Mrs Oates’ class is delighted with their outdoor numeracy session.

And so the day proceeds with Dora finding a way to manage each and every potentially tricky situation although after a lunchtime packed with so much fun and games, they miss the bell and incur the wrath of Mrs Oates. And then finally, it’s Arnold’s turn to manage one last challenge (with a bit of help from his whale) …

With suitably silly, bright cartoon style illustrations and a decided sting or rather stink, in its tail, this story about gaining self confidence was well received by my audience of 4s to 6s who particularly enjoyed the idea of a soccer playing whale and that whiffy finale.

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