Jasmin McGaughey (text) and Jade Godwin (illustrator), Big Break! (Little Ash #9), HarperCollins Publishers, May 2024, 64 pp., RRP $9.99 (pbk), ISBN 9781460762776
Jasmin McGaughey (text) and Jade Godwin (illustrator), Sleepover Surprise! (Little Ash #10), HarperCollins Publishers, May 2024, 64 pp., RRP $9.99 (pbk), ISBN 9781460764664
The Little Ash series, co-authored by Ash Barty, contains 10 titles loosely based upon her love of tennis and childhood fun. Some books rely upon the sporting motif to carry the narrative, others explore sleepovers, beach days and parties, thereby widening their appeal to a broader cohort. Whilst this is a series, each book easily stands alone.
In book #9, The Big Break!, Ash is heading with her family to have a picnic with her aunt, uncle and cousin. There is fishing, wading in the waves, and a game of family tennis on the grass, followed by ice cream for all. Ash’s sister has a broken wrist, and Ash finds a way each time to ensure that Ali can join in with all the fun and feel included.
Sleepover Surprise! is the tenth and final book in the series. Plenty of fun activities are planned for Ash’s slumber party, but as one friend struggles with being away from home, Ash and her parents find a way to make her feel more at ease.
Throughout the series, the central character Ash is portrayed as thoughtful, empathetic, positive and a problem solver with a supportive family and a strong group of friends.
Consideration has been given to the design elements of this series so that they match the intended age group. The font is clear and well-spaced, chapters are short, and there are monochrome illustrations on most double-page spreads which support and reflect the text.
This is perfect series for emerging young readers. The titles are likely to appeal to children who enjoy series such as Sporty Kids, The Besties and Ginger Green and may foster reading confidence.
Best suited for 5-8-year-olds.
Reviewed by Bronwyn Joseph
