Five fab new books for March

Another crop of fantastic tomes this month, any of which would make a wonderful gift. First up is one for hipster/design tots. Pantone: Colours (Abrams, RRP £6.99) is essentially what it says on the tin – a board book introducing ten colours – but with a twist: each colour page features a myriad of tonal variations, à la the iconic 60s colour-matching system. Why has this taken so long?

Ever since we read A Bit Lost last year, everyone in this household has been a fan of Chris Haughton’s work – his quirky illustrations are divine. His second book Oh No, George! (Walker, RRP £11.99) is just as good – the tale of a mischievous dog who turns over a new leaf. Or does he?

 

Another favourite down here in Brighton is the winning combo of Bob Staake and Peter Stein. The duo’s latest, Bugs Galore (Walker, RRP £11.99) cannot fail to be a hit with toddlers. Why? 1) It’s about creepy crawlies. 2) The language is delicious – slithery, squirmy adjectives and sing-songy rhymes.

 

Hans & Matilda, by nattily monikered Japanese author and illustrator Yokococo (Templar, RRP £10.99), tells the charming story of two extremely different little cats – one good and one not so good. Little ones will love the twist in the tale.

 

We’re not shy about our adoration of Petit Collage’s Lorena Simonovich and her collaborative board books with Sara Gillingham, featuring cut-outs and super-cute felt finger puppets. I buy one of these for nearly every newborn and they’ve never failed to be a success. The latest On My Leaf (Chronicle Books, £5.99), about a smiley ladybird, is no different.  Just lovely. Happy reading everyone!

 

Tagged board books, Bob Staake, Books for babies, Books for Toddlers, Bugs Galore, Chris Haughton, gift books, Hans and Matilda, Lorena Simonovich, Oh No George, Pantone, Peter Stein, picture books, Sara Gillingham, Yokococo