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| [via macmillan publishers] |
Ages: 3-6
Occasion: animal lovers, anxiety around dogs/animals, confidence around pets
The Bea loves dogs. Everywhere we go, she has to stop for a chat, which means that a walk to the shop on our very dog friendly street can take half the afternoon ("Bye Winky!" she once exclaimed, inexplicably to a dog named Angus).
But I know that for many kids, dogs can be terrifying. I remember once babysitting a little girl who was so frightened of them that she'd cry on sight and jump if she heard a bark. It was heartbreaking in a way to see someone so little have such fear.
A Small Thing...But Big is a story for those kids.
Lizzie, who isn't so sure about dogs, goes to the park with her Mum. While she's playing, she comes across a little puppy called Cecile and her owner, a little old man who, as it turns out, is a little anxious himself.
What follows is the sweetest tale of taking things one small thing at a time, and how those small things add up to big things.
The language in this story ("how springingly she walks!") and the conversations between Lizzie and the old man are just gorgeous ("she is quite adoring being with you!"). The cheerful, simple illustrations complete the story.
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| [Yes. My child is wearing star wars pajamas with an Emma Wiggles dress. It has been going on for a week. Send help.] |
I love that Lizzie knows to wait until Cecile's owner tells her it's okay to pat, play and walk with Cecile and there's a sweet message in there about how all dogs are good, once you get to know them.
This is a reassuring and bright little story, particularly for children who aren't so sure of those crazy puppies in the park. Animal lovers will adore this one too.
Now, if you'll excuse us, we're off to visit our doggy friends in the neighbourhood (it should only take six hours).
the book and the bea x
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