Red Red Red

This story begins when the central character, a peckish little boy, tries to help himself to a biscuit. Unfortunately, he takes a tumble and events take a turn for the worse. He bangs his head, his socks fall down and his pants get in a twist. He's still hungry, too! Suddenly everything is wrong with the world and his Mummy's attempts to soothe him will not work. He is certainly seeing red and expresses his frustration in the way we humans sometimes do. A scene of tears and outrage unfolds, with which many readers will identify. Luckily, Mum has a handy technique to help him to calm down. She encourages him to count from one to ten, and breathe! This is the turning point in the story after which, when his pants and socks are rearranged, a biscuit and a cuddle are the order of the day. The tale will be familiar to the readers and many will recognise themselves in the story. It could serve as a useful way to teach a calming method for parents and children alike. The wonderful illustrations depict a whole range of emotions from anger to love. Both characters are actually very resourceful in coping with this everyday frustration, leading to a satisfying, happy ending. Picture book / Ages 2+ / Reviewed by Judith Greenall, librarian

Suggested Reading Age 3+