Lisa Kerr, A Very Cheeky Monkey Christmas, Five Mile Press, Sept 2016, 16pp., $19.95 (board book), ISBN: 9781760404086
Lisa Kerr’s character Cheeky Monkey shares his love of Christmas through the exploration of traditions and rituals. With the cover’s star cut out providing intrigue and the Christmas spirit evident, I can imagine this book exciting an early childhood audience.
“Let me, let me!”
Cheeky Monkey is eager to help with everything in preparation for Christmas – decorating, baking, singing and wrapping – but while he has the best intentions, things don’t always turn out as they should.
The illustrations in this board book are inviting and provide opportunities for discussion beyond the text; such as the feelings and reactions of others, recurring characters, colour and shape, responsibility and leadership.
I would recommend this book for the younger years of early childhood though would consider it appropriate as a basis for discussion with older children (4-5 years). Or Cheeky Monkey’s adventure could be read simply to share the joy and magic of Christmas.
Reviewed by Raquel Mayman
- Read Julie Long’s review of the Cheeky Monkey Manners books