The Blue Umbrella

The Blue Umbrella is a heartwarming story that highlights the power of compassion and community. It begins with a mysterious umbrella being given to the main character; a young girl. Although the umbrella is small, she offers her mum a space underneath it when raindrops begin to fall. She notices people in the park are getting wet, so she offers a space to them as well. Then more and more people join, and the umbrella magically accommodates everyone. Talking and laughter can be heard underneath the blue umbrella as everyone shares their picnics.

Both my daughter and I really loved this joyful, touching book. As a primary teacher to young children, I plan on reading this story to my class. I think this is perfect book to reinforce many of our Health and Wellbeing lessons including those on friendship and kindness. The illustrations show a diverse range of people including characters in wheelchairs, characters with a range of skin colours and hair types, and characters of all ages. I also love the slightly muted colour scheme and the natural feel of the front cover.

Picture book / Reviewed by Jemma Jeffrey, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 3+