by Shirley Hughes (Red Fox)

The most charming, heart-warming story ever written for children? For me, it has to be Dogger.

by Quentin Blake (Red Fox)

As a big Quentin Blake fan, one of his books had to feature in my list. Mrs Armitage is great fun – quirky, creative and unconventional but a great role model for children. (Lots of ‘joining in’ lines in this story too.)

by Astrid Lindgren (OUP)

One of my favourite books as a child, given a new lease of life in the new edition by Lauren Child’s illustrations, which capture this larger-than-life character perfectly.

by Ian Falconer (Simon and Schuster)

Fabulous, characterful illustrations bring this cheeky and mischievous little pig to life. Olivia is adorable!

by Julia Donaldson (Macmillan)

A rhyming classic by one of the most successful partnerships in children’s literature. A reminder that you don’t have to be big to make a big impact, with a clear environmental message.

by Jill Murphy (Macmillan)

My favourite book to read aloud to young children, with lots of sound effects, repeating lines and opportunities for little ones to join in.

Make your own vocabulary cards with these words from Ferdinand Forest and the pirate pickle.

What facts can you find in text and what can you infer?

Measure the distance between the islands and round up or down the distances.

Use these A4 library posters to inspire reading in your school.