What the Ladybird Heard Next

The sequel to the fabulous What the Ladybird Heard. Julia Donaldson's story telling is engaging and Lydia Monks's illustration again brings it all to life, with the added sparkle drawing in even the most reluctant of children. We see the return of Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len, who come up with a plan to steal the fat red hen to make their fortune. Unfortunately, they have not learnt from their previous exploits and are outwitted by the ladybird and her farmyard friends. The story begins by revisiting the farmyard residents, we are then presented with the mystery of the disappearing eggs. However, the clever little ladybird comes to the rescue and goes off to find out what is going on. She finds the not so bright pair of thieves discussing their plan to make it rich by, not just stealing a few eggs, but by taking the hen herself. The ladybird reports back and then informs the other animals that she has a plan to stop the thieves. As Hugh and Len go to steal the hen they are then led on a 'wild goose chase' to find the super-duper snuggly snerd, who is supposed to lay rugby ball sized eggs! Unfortunately, for the thieves they end up in a very smelly situation before they realise they have been tricked! This story has a great balance of familiarity and new story, to engage those familiar with the first book and those new to the adventure. This book would be great for use with EYFS and KS1. It provides opportunity for a variety of activities, including very simple activities such as matching e.g animals and names or animals and sounds; moving onto looking at directions, instructions and map work; Julia Donaldson's invention of the 'snuggly snerd' would also provide the children with the opportunity to create their own creatures with unusual characteristics! Picture book / Ages 3+ / Reviewed by Jennifer Niblett, teacher.

Suggested Reading Age 3+