This week, I have chosen a picture book that focuses on gratitude – an important character strength that we all need to foster to improve our wellbeing and help us through trickier moments in life.

Thank You by Jarvis is an enchanting picture book that serves as a gentle reminder to pause and appreciate the seemingly ordinary things that often go unnoticed. From the very first page, Jarvis’s picturebook delivers a heartwarming experience, both visually and emotionally, that is sure to resonate with children and adults alike. Its vibrant collage art and simple, rhythmic text combine to create a captivating read that will leave a lasting impression on young readers.

The book follows a young child who joyously gives thanks to the various elements of his everyday life. This simple yet profound narrative guides readers through a series of delightful illustrations that capture the essence of each item the child appreciates—from the warm embrace of the sun and the thrill of riding a bicycle to the simple pleasure of jelly in a bowl. The central theme of gratitude is woven seamlessly into the fabric of the story, encouraging children to recognise and appreciate the small joys in their own lives.

Jarvis’s artistic approach is nothing short of mesmerizing. The illustrations, crafted through vibrant collage art, create a visual feast that complements the book’s theme perfectly. Each page bursts with colour and texture, drawing children into a whimsical world where the wonder and enthusiasm of the child  is thoughtfully captured. The text is simple yet effective, with rhythmic, repetitive phrasing that reinforces the theme and encourages participation. As the child expresses thanks for each small joy, the repetitive structure invites readers to join in, fostering a sense of inclusivity and sharing.

More than just a picture book, Thank You is a celebration of the art of gratitude. It not only teaches children the importance of saying “thank you” but also encourages them to reflect on the things that bring them happiness, providing a valuable lesson in appreciating the small joys in life.

Happy reading!

It’s my final Friday Library Recommendations of this school year, and once again, it’s been an absolute pleasure to share amazing books from the world of children’s literature with our whole school community. With summer holidays edging ever closer, my final theme is Journeys – real or imagined!

My first choice is a beautiful picture book by Steve McCarthy called The Wilderness, a wild and wondrous story of true bravery and discovering friendship in the most unexpected of places, perfect for adventurers and the more timid alike.

The Vasylenko family are adventurers. They all love the wet and the wild, the thrill of exploring the outside world. All that is … except Oktober. He prefers the warm and safe comfort of the inside world, and for his adventures to take place between the pages of a book. But tomorrow, Oktober has to join his family on a trek into the slimy, grimy and climby wild, where he sees only danger and worry and fears a creature called “The Wilderness”! Failing to keep his wits about him could be dangerous though – it may even get him a bit … lost. But perhaps getting lost is just what Oktober needs to find himself and maybe even make an unexpected friend.

Next, I’ve chosen a funny and fantastical adventure by Michael Rosen, illustrated by Viviane Schwarz – The Incredible Adventures Of Gaston Le Dog.

Gaston le Dog longs to return to the beautiful beach he remembers from years ago. So he sets off on an adventure – but mystery and danger lurk at every turn, and Gaston will need all the help he can get from the friends he meets along the way. But can they all be trusted? And will Gaston’s odyssey bring him everything he hoped for? This playful new tale from national treasure Michael Rosen sprinkles myth, magic and fairy tale to create a brilliant story, illustrated by award-winning artist Viviane Schwarz, perfect for fans of the Grimwood series.

Finally, I’ve picked a fabulous non-fiction title – It’s The Journey, Not The Destination by Carl Honore, illustrated by Kevin & Kristen Howdeshell. Take time to connect with the world as you embark on 40 slow adventures by foot, bike, boat or train, allowing you to take in the history, absorb the landscape and meet extraordinary people along the way.

Whether you roam the ‘Rose City’ of Petra, feel the magic of the Great Stones Way or sail back in time on the River Nile, these journeys, illustrated step-by-step through each location and accompanied by texts from bestselling author ‘Godfather of the Slow Movement’ Carl Honoré provide young readers with a feast for the senses and food for the soul.

Happy reading and have a wonderful summer full of slow adventures.