Author & Illustrators
Big Tiger by Marta Altés is a reassuring picture book that captures the excitement and uncertainty of growing up.
Big Tiger is no longer small and is determined to be brave, bold and grown-up. As Tiger ventures through a jungle filled with creatures much bigger than them, readers see the challenges that come with taking those first steps towards independence. However, the story gently reassures us that it is perfectly okay to need comfort, support and a helping hand along the way.
The relationship between Big Tiger and Mum is at the heart of the story. The book beautifully conveys the unbreakable bond between parent and child, showing that no matter how big we grow, we are never too old for a hug, a reassuring word or the knowledge that someone is always there for us.
The illustrations are vibrant, expressive and full of personality, bringing humour and warmth. Young readers will relate to Tiger’s desire to do things alone, while recognising the comfort of knowing a trusted adult is never far behind.
With themes of independence, courage, love and belonging, Big Tiger is a heartfelt and uplifting read. It is a perfect book for children navigating new experiences, older siblings adjusting to change or anyone who needs reminding that growing up doesn’t mean growing apart. A delightful story full of warmth, wisdom and love.
A simple but punch-packing tale from storytelling master David Almond.
When a brand new boy called George starts at school, Daniel and his best friend Maxie are looking forward to getting a chance to enjoy the company of a new classmate. Daniel agrees to keep an eye on the new boy, although he has to admit there are a few unusual things about George. A series of questions without answers begins to unravel – like why George is ushered unwillingly into a black van at the end of the play date, or why the teachers seem to have a weird response to George in class, or why there’s a sudden announcement that George will leave the school. And what exactly is inside that tall box that is wheeled into assembly the following week?
This is an innovative story that weaves themes of compassion, hope and community as well as what it means to be alive. The dignity and compassion with which Daniel and his friends treat George are beautiful. I also loved the characterisation of Daniel’s mum, who is full of love, acceptance and a happy dose of Geordie warmth. The way people have been treated in the family home often naturally affects how they treat strangers, and Daniel is a prime example of this. The dangerous impact of technology on children is touched upon, but so is its potential to enhance human experience when treated sagely, with respect for human experience kept at its heart.
True to style, David Almond weaves a thought-provoking tale with hints of darkness, plenty of hope and pause for reflection on what it means to be alive.
Five More Minutes is narrated by a young fox cub who tells us all about the ways that his dad talks about time passing by. The book is beautifully illustrated and filled with warm and cosy depictions of family life, from the children jumping on dad in the morning to wake him up to him telling them stories at the end of the day. The illustrations by Marta Altés show a loving father who doesn’t always find fitting everything into the day easy but always makes time to be with his children.
review
Year group(s) the book is most suitable for:
Year group(s) the book is most suitable for:
Does the book contain anything that teachers would wish to know about before recommending in class (strong language, sensitive topics etc.)?
Does the book contain anything that teachers would wish to know about before recommending in class (strong language, sensitive topics etc.)?
Would you recommend the book for use in primary schools?
yes
Curriculum links (if relevant)
Curriculum links (if relevant)
Any other comments
Any other comments