Children’s books

HOP, Skip and Jump! By Lia Foa and Katie Saunders (Caterpillar Books; €7.10) is a clever mix of bouncy rhymes and busy activities.

Each colourful spread has a familiar creature — a flamingo balancing on one leg, a giraffe at full stretch, a crouching spider, etc. Seamlessly integrated into each scene is a photo of a child imitating the same activity, providing lively entertainment for active toddlers.

The Random House Mini Classic Collection (€7.10) comprises Edward Lear’s The Owl and the Pussycat, Quentin Blake’s Mister Magnolia, Debi Gliori’s Tell Me Something Happy, John Prater’s Again, and Anthony Browne’s Willy and Hugh. All beautifully illustrated and perfect travel entertainment for small hands, for age four and upwards.