The Smeds and the Smoos

By Author / Illustrator

Julia Donaldson, illus Axel Scheffler

Genre

Representation & Inclusion

Age range(s)

Publisher

Scholastic

ISBN

9781407196657

Format

Paperback / softback

Published

04-06-2020

Synopsis

Soar into space with this glorious love story of alien folk, from the number one bestselling author and illustrator of The Gruffalo and Stick Man. 'By a loobular lake on a far-off planet There lived a young Smed, and her name was Janet. Not far away, on a humplety hill, There lived a young Smoo by the name of Bill.' The Smeds (who are red) never mix with the Smoos (who are blue). So when a young Smed and Smoo fall in love, their families strongly disapprove. But peace is restored and love conquers all in this happiest of love stories. There's even a gorgeous purple baby to celebrate!

Shiny foil highlights on the cover makes this a special gift for toddlers With fabulous rhymes and breathtaking illustrations, this picture book from the UK's number one picture book author and illustrator is literally out of this world! Friendship, love, adventure and togetherness are at the heart of this joyful story From the creators of The Gruffalo, Stick Man and Zog, which have all been made into animated films.

Reviews

Shows Julie Donaldson at her best. This book will draw children in with its rhyme and flow. Axel Scheffler's illustrations are captivating and there is so much hidden on each page. Can you find where Axel has hidden 'The Gruffalo' in this book?

The Smeds and The Smoos is based on Romeo and Julie. Two family groups who hate each other. Children who meet and fall in love. Lucky as this is a children's story, the star-crossed lovers run away and without giving anything away, there is a happy ending.

This is a book all children need to read or have read to them. It will help children to understand that we may look different or like different things, but we can still be friends and still be kind to all. A book I will be reading to my own children and discussing. Also a book I will be using in class to help children understand that everyone is important and that you can be friends with people who are different from you.

Picture book / Reviewed by Jenny, teacher