Children’s picture books
PUFFIN THE ARCHITECT by Kimberly Andrews, Penguin Random House
She’s designed a bakery for Platypus and a treehouse for Moose. But can Puffin create something for two demanding pufflings? A gorgeous story, with endearing characters, intriguing house designs, ingenious mechanisms and intricate storage solutions, for children aged 5+. It’s no wonder George Clarke (George Clarke’s Amazing Spaces) loves it too!
A LION IN THE MEADOW by Margaret Mahy & Jenny Williams (illustrator), Hachette
Margaret Mahy’s tale of the boy whose mother doesn’t believe he has seen a roaring, yellow, whiskery lion in the meadow is turning 50. To celebrate, this award-winning classic has been re-released in a special hardback edition. A te reo Māori edition, He Raiona i roto i ngā Otaota, translated by Piripi Walker, is also available.
MINI WHINNY: HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME! by Stacy Gregg & Ruth Paul (illustrator), Scholastic NZ
Mini Whinny is the cutest but naughtiest little pony at Blackthorn Stables. After throwing a “big tanty” over having to share her birthday with the other horses, that night she sneaks away with all the party treats. But Mini Whinny discovers it’s not much fun partying on your own. How can she make amends? An adorable book for ages 2+.
THE TALES OF BEEDLE THE BARD by J. K. Rowling & Chris Riddell (illustrator), Bloomsbury
Beedle the Bard’s tales of magic and trickery are brought to life in this spectacular colour edition featuring Chris Riddell’s glorious artwork. Kindness is rewarded, but greed is punished in these dark fables, which are accompanied by Professor Albus Dumbledore’s deliciously subversive commentary. Perfect for all Harry Potter fans and Muggles.
HOW MĀUI FISHED UP THE NORTH ISLAND by Donovan Bixley, Upstart Press
Māui is reimagined as a cheeky younger brother on a fishing trip with the whanau in this fresh retelling of the muchloved Māori myth about how the North Island got its name. The vibrant, cartoon-like illustrations and hilarious text make it instantly appealing to children aged 3 to 7. Also in te reo Māori, Te Hīnga Ake a Māui i te Ika Whenua, translated by Darryn Joseph.