Books of The Week: May 24

This week, our Junior Librarians, Ariella and Poppy (both from Eagle class) have selected books from our humour section.

Firstly, Ariella recommends the 2018 winner of the Oscar Book Prize, There’s a Pig up my Nose, written by John Dougherty and illustrated by Laura Hughes.

Ariella’s reason for her choice:

“I loved this story because it is SO funny and I hope you think it is funny too!”

Mrs Harvey would also support Ariella’s choice. This is a masterclass in how to write a funny, exuberant picture book with a truly satisfying ending. Beautifully illustrated by Laura Hughes, this is a joy of a read (and read aloud) book.

What if a PIG got stuck up your NOSE? How ever would you get it out? When Natalie has to go to school with a pig stuck up her nose, her whole class gets together to find a way to get the pig out. But how will they do it?

Research shows that humour in books is the top characteristic children look for when making their reading selections.

Comedy is important. In fact, it’s essential. It can be a welcome escape from the chaos of the world, an opportunity to have a good laugh and bring some relief. It is a survival tactic, gently helping us to get through tough times when we’re not sure we can. It creates connections – laughing together builds a bond, it brings us closer; it’s integral to human interaction.

Comedy can change the way we think and how we act – a funny story about something that really matters can be a hugely effective way of reaching people. Learning to laugh at yourself is a powerful tool throughout life and being silly every now and then is fun.

Humour also gives children the confidence to try new things. By reading about characters who slip up or fail in an amusing way, or who take many attempts to succeed, children feel more comfortable embracing their fears and hesitations.

Poppy has chosen Not That Pet! written by Smriti Halls and illustrated by Rosalind Beardshaw. This book formed part of the Reading Road Map programme last year and has become a firm favourite with the children and also as a teaching tool. The well-paced rhyming of the story supports early literacy development.

Poppy explains her choice: “This is a really funny story and I love animals. I really would like a dog for a pet.”

Mrs Harvey agrees with Poppy’s choice. Not That Pet! is a lovely story about an everyday family and their dynamics. Mabel’s family just can’t agree on the right pet to get. They’re all too smelly … too wriggly … too scary … too giggly! Will she EVER find the perfect pet? This really is a laugh-out-loud story – with a great twist in the tail. The intricate and colourful illustrations provide details which encourage the reader too dive deeper into the story.

Happy Reading!

Mrs Harvey