Three delightful stories that carry important lessons hidden in the tale.
André the Aardvark bravely decides to venture out at night, but keeps getting the most awful frights. What with creepy noises, unseen things scratching him and eyes glaring at him, he wishes he was safely back in his burrow. Then he discovers he has friends who also like to go out at night, so there’s no need to be afraid of the dark. André the Aardvark’s Adventure is illustrated and written in rhyme by Robyn Williams. Struik Children, R80.
Kitty was being bullied at school by Dog and Giraffe – but then her Mommy showed her how to turn on her inner superpower. Powerful by Alicia Thomas-Woolf teaches children how to deal with bad, sad, scared and angry feelings in a deceptively simple story that could become a tool for life. It’s an anti-bullying, confidence-building song-and-action book that’s fun and carries an important lesson for all children, as well as their parents and teachers. It comes with a CD of the song and illustrations by Karin Arbuthnot. Ada Enup, R200.
Billy is confused … he has loads of friends, but they all look different, act in different ways and wear very different clothes. Is this okay, he wonders? In Sarah Tavola’s Perfectly Different rhyming story, Billy’s mum explains that it’s fine to be different and that the world would be a very dull place if everyone looked and acted the same. Sinan Hallak’s lively illustrations help to show three to six-year-olds the importance of embracing – and enjoying – individuality. Struik Children, R90.
