Paul the Peacock
Tilly Matthews
Happy Yak

It’s clear from the outset that Paul considers himself an entitled peacock. He has the biggest nest, the most loyal friend and his pride and joy – the most beautiful feathers in the forest. His trusty pal Noris the loris ensures that Paul receives plenty of pampering every single day until one evening a fierce storm blows up. Norris is sent out for more branches to strengthen Paul’s nest but the loris has had enough of his feathery friend’s arrogance and bossiness.

The following morning Paul wakes to discover disaster has struck: he no longer has a home, Norris and worst of all, his feathers have gone – every single one.

For the first time ever, the peacock heads out on his own to search for those missing feathers; Paul is nothing without his plumage so he’s determined to retrieve every single one. Now politeness is not a quality Paul possesses so he goes about demanding the animals he comes upon with one of those feathers to return it immediately; either that or he attempts to snatch it back.

Hmm, you’ve a lot to learn Paul and you’re going to have to do it the hard way, and eventually he does.
Could those same creatures that he’s treated so badly enable Paul to discover that there’s something even more important in life than himself and his appearance?

Tilly Matthews’ fun fable demonstrates the importance of considering the feelings of others as well as being able to show humility and value one’s friends. The illustrations are full of drama and details that will amuse both young listeners and adult sharers of the book. Lots to think about and discuss here.