Little Robin Red Vest

This is a gorgeous edition of Jan Fearnley's chilly winter's tale, Little Robin Red Vest, which gives a charming - and festive - account as to why the robin has a red breast. A little brown bird called Robin has prepared seven colourful vests to wear in the last few days running up to Christmas. However, again and again, Robin finds creatures whose need is greater than his - a chilly squirrel who can't sleep, a poorly baby otter and a shivering mouse among them. One by one, Robin gives away his vests until he has nothing left and is himself very cold. While he sleeps, he gets a visit from Father Christmas himself and ends up with a gorgeous new red vest. There are lots of ways to share this story with young children - colours and simple counting are covered - but the story itself is a lovely reminder of the real joy of Christmas, which is sharing what we have with friends and helping those in need. This story of 'Robin Redbreast' could also be used to explore other fables with children - for example, as an introduction to Aesop's Fables, or to encourage children to develop their own fable with a Christmas theme. Picture book / Ages 4+ / Reviewed by Paula Black

Suggested Reading Age 3+