Huxley and Flapjack

In Huxley and Flapjack Race to the Rescue, Huxley is a little koala filled with energy and zest for life. Flapjack, his penguin friend, is far more anxious and cautious, but together they make the perfect team. They live in a treehouse just outside the town and, when a new store opens, they hop on their tandem to take a look. Although the manager isn't entirely happy, they have lots of fun investigating everything from the revolving doors to the very bouncy trampoline in the sports department, but when Huxley is mistaken for a thief, they must come up with a plan to prove his innocence.

From its zingy yellow cover to its wonderful colour illustrations, this gorgeous early chapter book is bursting with energy and adventure, sure to capture the imagination - and hearts - of its readers. Huxley and Flapjack prove that opposites attract and that true friends can be quite different to you in both tastes and backgrounds. Huxley is impulsive, acting before thinking things through, and sometimes (like when riding on the tandem) relying on Flapjack to do all the work. Flapjack is a more sensitive, gentle soul who tempers Huxley's impetuous urges, yet benefits as the friendship encourages him to do things he might otherwise not do.

There is much here to discuss with children who might see themselves in either character! The illustrations are completely delightful, full of things to notice and smile about. Flapjack's range of changing expressions is a priceless as he is caught up in Huxley's madcap pace of doing things! The story could inspire many crafty activities, making it perfect for book group sessions as well as for enjoying at home or school. I could see this series making an excellent cartoon series as well! Sure to become firm favourites, Huxley and Flapjack are highly appealing characters which children are going to want to read about. Great fun!

96 pages / Reviewed by Sue Wilsher, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 5+