Stuck Inside

This is a gorgeous picture book that celebrates the power of children's imaginations - and is brilliant to share when so many children have been 'stuck inside', and not just because of the weather!

A little girl, stuck inside because of the rain and with a poorly dog for company, sets out to try to recreate outside, inside, with the help of various objects found at the back of cupboards and among their outdoor things. Soon the girl and her dog are having a brilliant time with their own invented game.

This is the perfect book for any parent stuck inside with a child who is bored and can't think of any games they want to play - but be prepared for lots of hunting through cupboards and under beds to find things to create your own games with!

The illustrations have a lovely retro feel to them, too, and really bring out the lovely relationship between the child and her dog, and that feeling of being 'stuck inside'. A lovely picture book that I will be saving to share on rainy days!

Picture book / Reviewed by Ellen Green.

Suggested Reading Age 3+

A beautifully written story with delightful illustrations that gave me a real sense of the characters' emotions and feelings.

The story focuses on a dog and a young girl who have to stay inside until a storm passes. It provides an opportunity for discussion about imaginary play and how everyday resources can be used to explore and pretend.

The careful use of the verbs add to the language and these could be unpicked with children to develop and expand their vocabulary. I did note the American spelling of marvelled...

Overall, a book to be enjoyed with EYFS and KS1 children to help them see that anything can be used to play and have fun. It shows children that they hold the key to imagination inside themselves!

Picture book / Ages 4+ / Reviewed by Susanne Hodgson, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 5+