If you're a regular reader of my blog, the chances are you might have pricked up your ears at the mention of the name Mike Martin. He's been featured on my blog many times for his numerous works of fiction in the Sgt Windflower series, as well as many tasty Canadian-style recipes in my #readcookeat posts inspired by the foodie mentions in his novels. If that's got you interested, I highly recommend going to check out the recipe for Newfoundland Molasses Raisin Bread. Winston Windflower loves it and so do I !
This time though, I'm here to tell you about another of Mike Martin's new releases. In the run up to the festive season, he has turned to a younger audience, releasing two children's books with a Christmassy theme, The Christmas Beaver and, the one that we reviewed, A Friend For Christmas.
The story introduces us to a big bunny family living in a warren under a big city, made up of Robbie Rabbit, his wife Rowena and their nine offspring whose names all start with R, making it great fun to read out loud at bedtime. (Can I just point out that, as an adult, I learned something in this book. Baby rabbits are called kits or kittens. How did I get to age 50 without ever even realising that I didn't know that !)
The rabbits are getting ready for winter when they receive a surprise visit from an unexpected animal - Whisperer, a big grey cat. Robbie is initially scared of the cat, a natural enemy to the rabbit family, but the cat seems to want to be friends. Should Robbie trust him? As it is Christmas, a time for peace on earth and good will to all men (and animals), Robbie sets his doubts aside and everyone has a lovely time, enjoying the spirit of trust, acceptance and friendship.
It's a lovely tale, putting the focus on important human values, that I could imagine Sgt Windflower telling his daughters Amelia Louise and Stella at bedtime. A special mention goes out to the illustrator, Sri Lankan Shey Kolee, whose beautiful artwork really brings the story to life. Definitely one to share with the kids or the grandkids in the run up to Christmas.
RRP : £12.14
- Publisher : Mezzo Publications (25 Oct. 2023)
- Language : English
- Paperback : 36 pages
- ISBN-10 : 1777131472
- ISBN-13 : 978-1777131470
- Reading age : 5 - 10 years
- Dimensions : 20.32 x 0.23 x 25.4 cm
Disclosure : We received a review copy of the book.
For those in need of relationship advice, "A Friend for Christmas" (check this blog for more tips - wisedate.org) offers a gentle reminder of the significance of nurturing connections with others, especially during times of loneliness or uncertainty. It serves as a poignant reminder that true companionship can be found in unexpected places, bringing comfort and joy to those who open their hearts to the possibility of friendship.
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