This post is a real mix of reading delight for younger children from New Zealand authors and illustrators. There are kiwi’s, tree huts, even trucks. A little something for everyone.
Kuwi’s Rowdy Crowd
By Kat Merewether
ISBN 9780994136459
Illustrated Publishing
If you like cute and cuddly then this is one for you. Kuwi the Kiwi is the creation of Kat Merewether and this is Kuwi’s fourth adventure. This time all Kuwi wants to do is to sit down and relax with a cup of tea. But a variety of New Zealand creatures, and birds turn up and shatter the peace, leaving her more and more frustrated. Kuwi finally reaches breaking point and shouts out to everyone to be quiet. That is when Kuwi discovers something very special.
Sweet, with the cutest of illustrations, and lots of funny New Zealand references; some specially for the adults reading this book to little children, and a story most of us can relate to, big or small.
Titan the Truck
Illustrated by Scott Tulloch
ISBN 9780473403119
Titan is a big truck and he knows the freight he hauls must get through as many people depend on him. Sometimes he hauls logs, cows and even groceries. The one thing in common is that they must all be delivered on time – they can not be late. A little bit of learning all about big trucks and what they do on their journey to get goods up and down the country.
So what happens one day when Titan has an accident? An adventure for Titan and his driver Baz.
Bright and bold illustrations by Scott Tulloch add to the enjoyment of this picture book.
And another one by Joy H. Davidson
The tree hut
Illustrated by Nina Kudinova
ISBN 9780473444181
DHD Publishing
Jack has to leave his home in the countryside and move to the city because of his father’s work. He doesn’t want to leave his tree hut so struggles with the move.
His new home in the city is a townhouse with very little room to play. As if all that is not enough, he believes they may have moved next door to a haunted house.
More Kiwi Rhymes for Kiwi Kids
By Peter Millet
Illustrated by Scott Tulloch
ISBN 9781869539955
Bateman Publishing
This is Peter Millet’s second book of rhymes for Kiwi kids. Peter takes traditional rhymes and gives them a New Zealand flavour.
Children will relate to them all. For folks who go camping and have memories of leaky tents in the rain, the rhyme It’s raining, it’s pouring will go down a treat with its special kiwi twist.
Scott Tulloch’s illustrations delighfully support the New Zealand elements of the rhymes.
Check out the book trailer for Ten Green Geckos for some fun.
Great to see so many new picture books being published in New Zealand written by New Zealand authors.