Author & Illustrators
Deep in the forest lives a little black panther. Surrounded by wonder, his life should be idyllic … except that he’s different from the other cats. They all seem so confident: Tiger has bold, fearless stripes, Lion’s mane shines like the sun and Leopard’s spots are dazzling. When their taunts overwhelm him, Panther sets off on a quest to improve himself. At first, he is intent on imitation, until, at last, the moon helps him to discover his own special beauty.
The reader has been able to see this beauty all along, through the intricately detailed illustrations which are influenced by traditional Indian art and textiles. There’s no need for lengthy descriptions because these fascinating pictures illuminate the scene but the vivid word choices sparkle nevertheless. This would make a great read-aloud book. The ending, with its message of courage and self-acceptance, is uplifting and reassuring.
While the rhythm of the fable may be familiar from folklore, the manner of the telling is original and richly pleasurable. I can see the book inspiring some wonderful art projects exploring lines, patterns and colour (each spread uses a particular palette), either using different methods of printing or computer programmes. In maths, there would be possibilities for investigating symmetry and reflection.
With lyrically expressive language, gorgeous illustrations and a simple but empowering message, this is a magical book.
A captivating picture book that marries a lyrical and rhythmic story about bedtime fears with striking artwork inspired by Indian folklore.
It is bedtime for the baby animals; the dark blanket sky is filled with an enormous moon and twinkling stars. But the comforting allure of night time soon gives way to fears when the winds rise and a thunder storm begins to set in. “You’re Safe With Me,” reassures Mama Elephant, as she explains the natural processes behind each stage of the storm, from the water raining down on the plants to make them grow to the clouds colliding to create crackling thunder. Through Mama Elephant’s storytelling and simple explanations, the animals are reassured in the knowledge that the noises and movements of the storm are natural processes and eventually feel safe to sleep soundly again.
The lyrical narrative has a lullaby feel with its onomatopoeia and lilting rhythm, evoking the connection between the environment’s natural processes and the baby animals’ instinctive sleep cycle. The text weaves its way beautifully through the distinctive artwork that embodies the sensuous and exotic jungle through a filter of earthy tones and an intricate pattern design inspired by traditional Indian prints.
This is a beautiful story about feeling safe and about how gaining an understanding of the natural world can help to overcome fears, and it would make a lovely classroom library addition for EYFS and KS1.
A captivating picture book that marries a lyrical and rhythmic story about a mother’s care with striking artwork inspired by Indian folklore. This story features a mummy polar bear with her young cubs. With each new wave of curious anxiety that the cubs raise about the world outside their den deep in the snow, Mama Bear’s response gently explains more about the rhythms of their natural habitat, coupled with her reassurance of “you’re snug with me.” A beautiful book that captures a mother’s natural instinct to protect, reassure and equip her young.
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