Pincho: Nothing IS Possible

Ben Sanders' Nothing Is Possible is a charming and humorous picture book that follows Pincho, a calm and contented capybara who never hurries or worries. When an energetic little yellow bird arrives determined to fill Pincho's day with activities and adventures, the pair embark on a journey that highlights the contrast between being constantly busy and appreciating moments of rest.

Through colourful illustrations, engaging characters and a clever play on the phrase "nothing IS possible", Sanders delivers an important message about wellbeing, mindfulness and the value of slowing down.

This book is an excellent resource for a Key Stage 1 classroom as it supports learning across several curriculum areas. It provides a valuable starting point for PSHE discussions about emotions, relaxation and self-care, encouraging children to reflect on what helps them feel calm and happy.

In literacy lessons, pupils can compare the characters, sequence events, predict outcomes and write from different perspectives. Pincho's character also offers opportunities to learn about animals and habitats, while the story's overarching message promotes mindfulness and emotional wellbeing. Nothing Is Possible helps children understand that it is okay to take time to rest and that moments of calm can be just as important as being busy.

Picture book / Reviewed by Louise Gahan, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 5+

Pincho the capybara is extremely laid back, taking everything in his stride. However, a very energetic little yellow bird has decided that today is Pincho's day. Armed with a long to-do list and plenty of enthusiasm, the little bird is determined that Pincho will make the most of every second . . . Perhaps we should all be more like Pincho!

In Nothing is Possible, the 'chill-est, happiest capybara ever' certainly proves he can keep calm in a crisis and save the day! Being more like the little yellow bird, I envy Pincho's ability to relax and take life as it comes! The manic 'seize the day' energy of the bird against Pincho's laissez-faire style of life offers plenty of comic moments, often captured by a slight twitch in Pincho's eye or the tiny curl of his lip.

Bird is so keen to appear to be enjoying herself and using her time to the full that she misses many little things, rushing from one activity to the next without really enjoying anything. Pincho, on the other hand, is completely content in his own skin, happy to while away the time. When Bird's plan goes awry, however, Pincho is quick enough to save the day.

The illustrations are just delightful, capturing Bird's hyperactive flutterings and Pincho's slow motion perfectly and offering readers many little jokes and details to notice. The story would make an excellent class story with any age group. Older children would appreciate the overused idioms and phrases Bird litters in her conversation, perhaps giving rise to discussions about what some of these actually mean and how inspirational or cliched they are. The story could be used to inspire many creative activities for younger children and every age - adults included- will enjoy the humour!

Picture book / Reviewed by Sue Wilsher, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 3+