Warning: No More Silliness!: A silly and hilarious picture book all about breaking the rules!

In Warning: No More Silliness!, an official report issues a set of rules which must be followed . . . or there will be consequences! Delightfully silly and full of fun, Warning: No More Silliness! will have little ones (and not so little ones) laughing out loud as they explore the list of rules stipulated by the 'Committee for Sensibleness'.

As things get increasingly absurd, children are sure to delight in creating their own wild and whacky rules, but the book also offers the opportunity for sparking discussions about why there are rules and why some are important.

The contrast between the narrator's dictatorial and stern tone and the lively bright illustrations make the book all the more humorous and there are so many little details to notice and enjoy on every page, including a cheeky little green frog who is hiding in every picture. We had great fun finding him! Sure to become a firm favourite at home and at school!

Picture book / Reviewed by Sue Wilsher, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 3+

Many years ago, a friend of mine recounted a story about a visit she and her two young children made to a Dr Who exhibition. In one of the rooms was a button, a big, red button; a big, red, ominous button. A big, red, ominous button with the words 'DO NOT PRESS' clearly displayed (in BIG red writing) alongside it.

There was much discussion as to whether they should push this button. The children were vehemently opposed to this action; they were very worried about the consequences. What did the button do? What would happen? They would get into trouble, because they were being very clearly told NOT to press the button. The consequences could be dire . . . very dire!

Sam Usher's WARNING: No More Silliness! prepares its readers for the dire consequences that would follow should the stated rules be broken. These rules are set by the Committee for Sensibleness and are very rigid indeed. Are you concentrating? You really should be. Failure to do so will result in consequences. So . . . Do not dive into that paddling pool full of alligators; definitely do not pick your nose; do not say a rude word; do not disturb that pirate while he is reading his book and definitely, definitely, definitely, on no account ever . . .  press that red button! There will be consequences.

There are many delightful surprises within the book, and it would be unfair to unleash them here thus spoiling the anticipation of turning the page; but I can assure you that this is one highly engaging book. Sam Usher has created a plethora of wonderful characters who illustrate exactly what will happen if the rules are not followed. My particular favourites are the somewhat incompetent pirate, the nose-picking king, and the knitting strongman.

The illustrations are teeming with an anarchic energy which demand to be explored, enjoyed and revisited. My young grandbrood (ages 5,4 and 3) insisted on turning the pages back to double check what had happened on earlier pages. They also spent the rest of the day breaking all of the rules, and creating their own consequences.

To say that these young readers were wholly engaged is an understatement. Oh, and what happened to the Dr Who RED BUTTON? Despite her children's protestations, my friend decided that she would press the button. The consequences? A nearby dalek spun round, pointed its antenna at them and uttered that awful word . . . "EXTERMINATE!!" They were warned.

Picture book / Reviewed by Tracy Parvin, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 3+