The Perfect Fit

Triangle loves rolling with the circles, playing with the squares and having fun with the hexagons. But wherever she goes, Triangle feels like she doesn’t fit. After much searching, she eventually finds those just like herself. Together, they have a wonderful time, but she quickly realises that she misses…everyone else! Soon, all the shapes are having a brilliant time together. They might not all be exactly the same, but they can still be the best of friends.

‘The Perfect Fit’ is a delightful story, perfect for sharing with KS1 and EYFS children, but also worth reading to, and using to initiate discussions with, older children. The instant visual appeal of the story makes it so easy to relate to and children could readily create their own shape characters to explore how they are feeling or as a starting point for writing their own stories or poems. The illustrations beautifully personify the different individuals and Triangle has endearing freckles which add to her character- and make her easy to spot amid the other yellow triangles!

The story celebrates difference, showing that it’s not only OK to be different, but that difference can be a good thing, bringing new ideas and new perspectives. The use of shapes is a gift to teachers as there are so many mathematical links and colour links which can be made whilst enjoying the story.

A wonderful story for exploring difference and the fun of fitting in- or not, ‘The Perfect Fit’ is just joyous!

The Perfect Fit Naomi Jones, illustrated by James Jones

OUP ISBN: 978-0192774613

Wild

The wild wolves tease brothers Wolfie and Wilfie for not being growly or scowly, scary or snarly enough. They do not want to be pressured into following the pack, but want to stay true to themselves. When the pack pounces on Granny and her basket of pies, the brothers bravely come to her rescue and proudly stand up for what they believe in.

Perfect for starting conversations about peer pressure, ‘Wild’ shows how dangerous a ‘pack’ mentality can be. The ‘wild’ wolves swoop in on those who are different, mocking them and intimidating them. Wolfie and Wilfie’s fear is clearly shown as they are surrounded by the bigger, intimidating wolves, demanding empathy. The illustrations offer a brilliant starting point for using role play techniques for exploring the feelings of the brothers, but also for those members of the pack who are not as comfortable with what is going on. Discussions exploring strategies to use at these times could then follow, with younger children offering Wolfie and Wilfie advice.

The story also challenges the idea that the wild wolves can take whatever they want, whenever they want it and shows that Wofie and Wilfie deserve their pieces having behaved and helped by collecting the berries. Another much needed message!

Perfect for starting discussions and challenging thinking, ‘Wild’ is an empowering story about staying true to yourself.

Wild Annette Demetriou and Dawn White

illustrated by Ryan Sonderegger

Owlet Press ISBN: 978-1913339050