I SPY Something Wonderful, by David Conway, illustrated by Paula Bowles (Red Fox; €7.10), is a book to share, about the wonders of life for a baby deer as he greets his new world with his parents.

RHINO’S Great Big Itch! by Natalie Chivers (Little Tiger €7.10). An itch inside the ear is an annoying thing to deal with, but for a rhino with four heavy legs and no fingers to probe the irritant, it is extra frustrating.

You Do!, by Kes Gray with illustrations by Nick Sharratt (Red Fox €8.80), is a salutary lesson to mothers who ought to think before having a rant.

FOR emergencies such as rain-induced cabin fever or plain old holiday boredom, Party Stencils by Maria Maddocks (Caterpillar Books; €7.55) is just the trick. With jaunty rhymes, colourful pictures and sturdy press-out stencils, this read-cum-creative book will restore sanity. Don’t forget the colouring pencils and paper! Age four to seven.

DEXTER BEXLEY and the Big Blue Beastie on the Road (Doubleday; €13.90 HB), by Joel Stewart, is a sparkling story, best read aloud.

WAKE UP! by Katie Cleminson (Red Fox; €7.55) follows the day of a little boy whose imaginary friendship with an elephant, a cat and various other animals are all part of his activities – from being woken by an elephant, stretching like a cat, playing the violin like an octopus and eating like a hippo. An inspiring read-aloud for reluctant bedtimers.

The Big Barn Dance, by Jenny Arthur (Caterpillar; €11.50), is the bees’ knees. The spreads in this sturdy board book each focus on a farm animal. Press the button on the strip panel and the animal will moo, baa, quack, etc. Excellent entertainment for age 18 months and upwards.

FIRST published in 1980, Quentin Blake’s award-winning Mister Magnolia (Red Fox; €7.55) has been republished to entertain another generation.

AFTER the last of the melted Easter eggs are wiped from hands and faces, a good book will restore peace.

WITH the Children’s Book Festival imminent, now is a good time to introduce the very young to the pleasure of reading.

BEFORE setting off abroad, Sandi Toksvig’s Guide to France (Red Fox €5.00) is a must for youngsters.