This charming collection is sure to spark memories for anyone who grew up chanting classic children’s songs.

It opens with the perennial favourite ‘The Wheels on the Bus’, guaranteed to set little voices singing as the wheels go round and round. ‘Five Little Ducks’ follows soon after –

Five little ducks went out one day,

Over the hills and far away.

Mother Duck said, ‘Quack, quack, quack, quack’,

But only four little ducks came back.

Of course, no collection would be complete without ‘Old MacDonald Had a Farm’ or ‘There Were Five in the Bed’, and the little one said, ‘roll over’. Many readers will also remember Little Peter Rabbit, who had a fly upon his nose, and ‘Miss Polly Had a Dolly’, who was ‘sick, sick, sick’.

The book brings together a delightful selection of well-loved tunes, accompanied by playful collage-style illustrations inspired by Play School.

While it’s a little light on the number of songs included, it remains a lovely thoughtful gift – ideal for a new baby or a first birthday and destined to be sung for generations to come.

Reviewed by Jane Stephens
Age Guide 0+