The ever-popular Kipper made his first starring appearance (after "The Blue Balloon") in this book, and here we have a welcome re-issue.

Kipper's basket is smelly and worn, and he trots off in search of somewhere else to sleep. After several hilarious efforts to sleep like other creatures, he returns thankfully to his familiar basket. Pre-school children will be able to understand and laugh at Kipper's efforts to get into a flower-pot, build a nest and sit on a lily pad, and appreciate his pleasure at returning to his own place, his smelly old basket, after all. Mick Inkpen's economical style and use of white space around his illustrations and delightful text are instantly recognisable, and this re-issue will surely entrance another genration of children. Happy 18th birthday, Kipper!

2008-07-13