For the over-fours this title is the much-awaited sequel to bestselling children’s tale The Pocket Dogs. A charming story of love and friendship, the book is beautifully adorned with vivid pen and ink illustrations that resonate character, atmosphere and above all, fun. The colours lift off the page and the character of Mr Pocket is wonderfully portrayed. Mr Pocket and his two little dogs Bill and Buff set off to the seaside for a holiday. The two little dogs love riding in the pockets of Mr Pocket’s big old coat; but when the coat suddenly disappears, all that they know and love comes to a grinding halt. The content is clear and the story shies away from unnecessary complexities. It is an easy book to read aloud with the text a good sized font and the pages uncluttered by excessive wording. There is also ample opportunity to embellish and entertain your audience. The success with any book for pre-schoolers rests on their ability to identify easily with the subject matter. What youngster doesn’t love animals, the beach and hasn’t lost an item of clothing?

Fiona Edwards is an editor, journalist and teacher

Tags: margaret wild