When Dora was born, her four big brothers were very excited. Alex wanted to cuddle her, Bruno wanted to make her laugh and Liam wanted to rock her to sleep. But Peter said, ‘I’m going to read to her.’

As Dora grew and the years ticked by the boy’s played peek-a-boo, hide-and-seek, pushing her around in her pram. Liam taught her how to throw a ball, Bruno showed her how to jump puddles. Alex played dress-ups with her. But Peter always read to her, sitting on the bed while Dora imagined herself into stories.

This book has a wonderful old-fashioned style and feel to it. The story and gorgeous evocative illustrations convey the simplicity of children playing together. This is complemented beautifully with the wonder of reading and the images that are conjured up in your imagination.

It is about the joy of childhood, or discovery, of learning and of imaginings. The joy of giving through playing together is exciting and fun, but what you find in a book together is also full of wonder. Reading to a child is one of the best gifts you can ever give.

Reviewed by Emily Ross

Age Guide 3+

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Margaret Wild is a bestselling and award-winning author who was born in South Africa and came to Australia in 1972. She has been a journalist on newspapers and magazines, and she worked as a book editor in children’s publishing for 16 years, responsible for managing and commissioning a large range of titles. She lives in Sydney and now writes full time. Margaret has written more than 70 books for children. Her books are published around the world and have won numerous awards.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Hannah Sommerville is an award winning picture book illustrator who creates watercolour, gouache and digital illustrations from her couch on the South Coast of NSW. Hannah earned a Bachelor of Creative Arts (Visual Arts and Graphic Design) at the University of Wollongong in 2006. She began illustrating in 2010 after the arrival of her children from whom she draws inspiration. Hannah is a storyteller who enjoys creating picture books that capture the imagination, tenderness and playfulness that surround children and family life.

Visit Hannah Somerville’s website