You Must Bring a Hat, by Simon Philip and Kate Hindley

[via bookdepository]

I love a fancy dress party. Like love love. Frankly, I'm not sure that a party without fancy dress actually really constitutes a party. I mean, where's the frivolity? What would people talk about if not their costumes? A party without costumes is like the Octonauts without Captain Barnacles. Entertaining but lacking direction (sidenote: Octonauts would be a great group costume...).

Not surprisingly then, I found You Must Bring A Hat, by Simon Philip and illustrated by Kate Hindley, hilarious (and promptly bought it for one of Bea's favourite buddies for his second birthday party - which was, of course, fancy dress).

You Must Bring a Hat tells the story of a little boy, who is invited to a party but must bring a hat. When the boy can't find his hat, he decides to bring a monkey wearing a hat (surely that counts?)...only to find there's additional requirements for guests who bring hat-wearing monkeys.

This book is so funny and kids will love the quirky (and rapidly escalating) adventures of one little boy trying to attend a party. There's a brilliant twist in the end that is sure to have you, and the kids, giggling.

[via]

The illustrations are bright and fun - it's the perfect silly birthday present for toddlers and early schoolies (or the fancy-dress party lover in your life).

the book and the bea x