What's That Noise?

What's That Noise? is a great book with an engaging story and fantastic illustrations. The story starts with Bob, his box, some toys and lots of noises! Bob is under his box playing noisily with his toys and is visited by several people repeating the question "What's that noise in there?". However, once Bob hears that question, he quietly waits until they move away. Each visitor is confused but moves on. Bob collects an array of food, toys and animals to continue his antics and there is so much silliness and fun in the box!

This book has many possibilities to offer in the classroom. The rhyming text is ideal for exploring and the text can be used to identify verbs which are creatively written in bold; when shared, children can take part in the actions, adding to the fun! This book could also be a starting point to write stories about having their own box and the silly adventures children could have with... any possibilities!!

What's That Noise was shared with six- and seven-year-olds, who laughed and joined in with the lovely repetitive text! Five stars was given and the book was enjoyed by all! A great book from Charlie and Nadia!!

Picture book / Reviewed by Maria, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 5+

I'm always thrilled when Nadia Shireen releases a new picture book! She is a multi-award winning author and if you are not already familiar with her books, I'd highly recommend Billy and the Beast for some animal fun and her feelings series including Barbara Throws a Wobbler and Geoffrey Gets the Jitters.

What's That Noise? is such a playful, fun book that brings me right back to my childhood - the joys that can be had playing hide and seek inside a cardboard box should not be underestimated! We meet Bob who gathers all sorts of noisy things from around his home to make noises with inside his box. He has great fun making as much noise as possible without ever getting found out.

Children will love joining in with the various noises made throughout What's That Noise such as the 'brum' of the toy car or the 'pop, pop, pow' of the cereals. Making these different sounds helps children to map their mouths and deliberately make different sounds using their teeth, their lips and their tongue - all very important skills in readiness for learning phonic sounds.

In school, this book would be brilliant for teaching and encouraging phase 1 phonics, encouraging children to repeat the different sounds.

This story demonstrates the fun that can be had from the simplest, most inexpensive things in life - a great reminder for us all!

Picture book / Reviewed by Jessica Bunney, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 3+