Poppy the Pea
Dr Fuzz
Fuzz Books

Herein we meet a pea that’s ‘one of a kind’; her name is Poppy and the author describes her as “The most unlikely pea you’re likely to find.’ When first we meet her, Poppy is somewhat conflicted: she dreams big but her fears always prevent her taking that vital first leap to follow her dreams. Dreams inspired by tales of one, Percy the Great, a pioneering pea from back in the day

But then something happens that changes things. One lunch time she finds herself, along with her pals, on a plate but whereas they sing of going to a cosy space of a ‘tummy-tum-tum, Poppy resolves that like her hero Percy, she will now take charge of her own fate. It’s time to take that giant leap of faith and go after that dream.

Yes, she faces setbacks but happily during her adventure she encounters a friendly, encouraging character who helps her get back on track … Freedom awaits.

Each page of the rhyming text ends with an italicised refrain that offers an opportunity for discussion, though the entire book is one that is likely to prompt discussion on topics including feeling scared, facing your fears, being brave and the timely help of a friend.

Amusingly illustrated by the author, (who as a young child fled Iran to the safety of the UK with his family during the Iran-Iraq war) this is a quirky, pocked-sized book, for anyone who might need a gentle nudge to take that vital first step, especially.