Beautiful images, a simple yet thoughtful storyline, Scottish scenery and wildlife, Little House by the Sea is a firm favourite of ours.
Summary: A little run down cottage is home to a variety of wild animals. When the house is redeveloped by a fisherman, he takes the opportunity to adapt, ensuring all the animals are still safe, fed, loved and included. The illustrations are beautiful, with incredible detail spanning the entirety of most pages. Simple short sentences tell the tale of the house and its inhabitants. A subtle message about change and about inclusion along with conservation is shared with the reader. With some thought and some kindness, change can be a good thing.
Best Thing: Our favourite bit of each of Benedict Blathwayt’s books is always the illustrations. They are works of art in their own right.
Time to read: 10-20 minutes.
Pages: paper
Age range: ideally suited to 2-4 years, although older children will enjoy the illustrations and may read the book themselves.
Buy or borrow: Buy. These books are just too beautiful to give back.
