The Mole and the Hole

This is the first picture book that I have read from Brayden Kowalczuk and I will endeavour to ensure that it will not be the last. It was brilliant. The author, who also produced the beautiful illustrations in this book, is also a Disney character artist, so it is no wonder the characters are so fantastic. The angry rocks are hilarious! Both my children and I loved this story and read it twice in a row. The Mole and the Hole is a fantastic picture book that I would recommend to children aged 3-6yrs. It is all about how NOT to be a good neighbour. We get introduced to Mole, a happy go lucky mole, who lives in a hole which he finds a bit dark and lonely. And so, he likes to venture to the surface. However, the characters on the surface have had quite enough of Mole and some grumpy rocks block his hole; 'NO MOLES ABOVE GROUND!' Mole can't recall what he has done to upset everyone. He just enjoys himself, and his 'friends'. Unfortunately, Mole is a tad carefree and does not consider how his actions may affect others. 'Rocks don't want to be used as a toilet, Mole!' - a quote from my 5-year-old boy. This book would be perfect to teach reception children or children in year 1 about being considerate to others and contemplating how their actions might affect others. I could see me using this as a topic for PSHE regarding putting oneself in another person's shoes. We may even act it out! All in all, a good book that I would wholeheartedly recommend to any parents who want a book with a good hidden message or a book that makes for a talking point for valuable a life lesson. Picture book / Ages 3+ / Reviewed by James Hewish, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 3+