Children’s Books

The Big Beach Boogie by Jenny Arthur (Caterpillar Books €10.66 HB) is a big, colourful, musical counting book to welcome summer.

Starting with one drumming octopus, it bounces along via other music-playing sea creatures to five guitarist crabs. The verse on each page has an easy-to-press button for listening to the individual instruments. The final pop-up scene reveals the complete fishy ensemble in full orchestral performance. Delightful fun for toddlers.

For youngsters who like books of facts — especially grotesque facts — That’s so Gross! Creepy Crawlies by Mitchell Symons (Red Fox €5.92) is a most informative read for any age. Couched in cartoon illustrations, it compellingly reveals the real, gruesome and complex world of insects from around the globe. !