From rabbits to donkeys, from pet cats to giant turtles there are animals of all types featured in this selection of new picture books nurturing curiosity and creativity and offering comfort during change or loss.

Bun by Hana Kinoshita Thomson

Bun is a debut picture book by Japanese-American- Australian illustrator, Hana Kinoshita Thomson and has great appeal for pre-schoolers. Bun is a busy little rabbit who loves gardening, baking and visiting her friends. Each page turn reveals another double page spread of everyday activities that young children will recognise and relate to. The illustrations are clear and uncluttered yet full of detail to talk about and pore over. Bun’s smiling face and the happy demeanour of those around her adds to the jolly feel of this sweet picture book. Sharp eyed readers will enjoy looking for Gary the snail who can be found on each double page spread. Even, shock horror, in the vegetable patch! Bun would be a lovely book to share in Early Years settings prompting a variety of activities and linked role play. It is a nice idea to include a recipe for Bun’s carrot cake on the final page too. The dedication mentions ‘anyone who loves rabbits‘ and this happy picture book ties in neatly with the Easter holidays but will be enjoyed by bunny lovers all year round. Published by Allen and Unwin on 5th March.

Tick-Tock Around the Clock: A day in the life of a cat by Ruth Brown

The creator of classic picture books such as Dark, Dark Tale and Greyfriars Bobby has produced a beautiful new book about a day in the life of a ginger cat named Tick-Tock. The reader follows Tick-Tock through his noisy day from the bong, bong of the morning clock to the sleepy purring of bedtime. Throughout the day he meets squirrels and mice and finally curls up with his owner after a meal in the evening. The warmth of the illustrations, with the wonderful depiction of light that Ruth Brown captures so well, give this lovely book a traditional, cosy atmosphere. Small cat lovers will delight in observing Tick-Tock’s day and identify with the familiar routine themselves. The emphasis on the sounds the cat hears will encourage children to join in with the various noises and maybe think more about the sounds of their own days. The minimal text increases the chance to concentrate on the wonderful illustrations and this is a comforting and reassuringly simple tale for young children. The lovely ending, ‘a cuddle before bed‘ ensures that this book would be a perfect bedtime read for tired children and parents. Tick-Tock Around the Clock was published by Scallywag Press on 5th March. You may like to use the helpful resources available on the publisher’s website.

Nico the Donkey’s New Home by Elena Mannion illustrated by Erin Brown

Over the last few years I have warmed to the picture books created by the duo Elena Mannion and Erin Brown, so when I learned that they have a title due out in April featuring one of may favourite animals I was keen to have a look. Nico the Donkey’s New Home tells the story of an elderly donkey who is enjoying a happy retirement on a farm belonging to Mrs Andersen after a busy life providing seaside rides. Nico and Mrs Andersen have an unbreakable bond. However Nico is gradually requiring more care and then one day Mrs Andersen has an accident preventing her from looking after Nico and a resolution must be found. A nearby Donkey Sanctuary may be the perfect answer to the problem but will the pair cope with being parted? The approaching separation is deal with kindly and thoughtfully in the text. This lovely book with the theme of close bonds, aging and animal care provides an opening for thoughtful conversations about these subjects. The gorgeous illustrations are full of colour and warmth and this kindly story about donkeys will have a great appeal to young animal lovers. Published by Pikku Publishing on 1st April.

Mr Darwin’s Tortoise by Angela McAllister and Chiara Fedele

Antonio is a young boy living in the Galapagos Islands in the 1830s who constantly asks questions. His curiosity is aroused by the many and varied creatures that surround him such as giant tortoises, lizards, scorpions, flamingos, pelicans and large beetles. One day there is a visitor to the island, a man who asks as many questions as young Antonio. The boy accompanies this man, Charles Darwin, as he explores the island, showing Mr Darwin the the cactus trees, the tortoise eggs and other treasures. In return Charles Darwin invites Antonio aboard his ship, The Beagle, and shows him his finds from his travels to many different countries. This fictional representation is an excellent way of introducing an important historical figure to children. It also encourages young readers to be inquisitive about the world about them and to ask questions to find out more. The text provides a child friendly pen portrait of Charles Darwin, his journey and role. The stunning illustrations depicting the different flora and fauna found in this region of the world are a huge part of the book’s appeal. The vibrancy and lushness of nature is brought to life for the reader. The final pages depict the creatures mentioned throughout the text labelled for identification and the end papers incorporate a map of the world showing the route to the Galapagos Islands and their location. This book has value for learning in libraries, classrooms and in the home. Published by Allen and Unwin in February.

Dog Stayed by Tammy Forster illustrated by Margeaux Davis

Mr Hindbottom lives alone. Alone that is until one day a dog turns up on his doorstep and stays. Mr Hindbottom tries to send the dog away but the dog resists and waits patiently in the front garden. Then, slowly, ever so slowly, Mr Hindbottom relents. First a scrap of food is thrown from the window into the garden, then an old quilt to keep dog warm on cold nights until eventually dog is hauled inside and bathed. From then on the two are inseparable and Mr Hindbottom and dog teach each other how to do things well and, importantly, how to enjoy things. But them one day Mr Hindbottom is not there anymore and dog waits, just as he did at the start of the story. The empty house and garden are tidied and made ready for a new owner. Then eventually a family with a young girl arrive. Will dog learn to love again? This is such a gentle story and its impact builds slowly yet by the end the reader is left profoundly moved by this exploration of love and loss. The sepia tinted illustrations convey this theme excellently and add to the emotional investment as one reads. To an adult reader it is clear that Mr Hindbottom is grieving and the gradual renewal of his love of life is beautifully depicted. Although children may not completely understand the back story they will appreciate the bond between these two outwardly grumpy individuals and the hopeful ending. Dog Stayed is a perfect conversation starter about losing someone you love and this would be a valuable addition to primary school library shelves. Published on 5th March by Allen and Unwin.

I should like to thank the publishers, Allen and Unwin, Scallywag Press, Pikku Publishing and Laura Smythe and Elena Mannion for my review copies.