All the animals are very busy, Rabbit is looking for somewhere quiet to have a nap, Bear is getting ready for his birthday party whilst Pig and Hen are playing hide-and-seek. Open the book, lift the flaps and join in with their fun as you follow their adventures through

Acorn Wood! In the first of the three stories Rabbit is trying very hard to find somewhere quiet to sleep but wherever she goes a noise is being made, who could be the culprits? Lift the flap and find out. Bear, in the second story, is busy writing invitations to his party and goes out to deliver them. As he posts each one the reader discovers the different places that his friends live in by lifting the flaps. Finally Hen and Pig decide to play a game of hide-and-seek, inviting the reader to join in too but who is it hidden behind the flaps, is it Hen? Stories from Acorn Wood are hugely popular and rightly so, with their bold and simple text clearly laid out alongside the pictures and the bright, clear illustration the stories are easy to follow, fun and light-hearted.

The language is simple making it easy for young children to listen and read along whilst recognising when it is their turn to take part in the story. This is perhaps one of the best elements of this book, the chance for the reader to take part, lifting the flaps to look underneath. The surprises that await the reader are wonderful and provide the opportunity to discuss further with children the variety of animals that live in the woods.

This book would be perfect for use with Reception and Year 1 children learning about wild animals, life in the woods and nature. A perfect resource for teaching and learning and with the accompanying CD ideal for story time.

2008-03-14