An indulgent post (like all the rest), but here are some picture books which I am just waiting for an excuse to buy, having just missed the perfect opportunity – Christmas

Haunted House by Jan Pienkowski – annoyed with myself that I didn’t get this for Halloween. This was the first pop up book I remember reading, it’s wasn’t part of the general library collection but you had to request it from the librarian who stored to behind her desk. I thought it was fantastic & was always fascinated at how much can be achieved with just paper in creating such engagement & wonder. While I have come across some really innovative pop up books recently there is a nostalgia for this classic I can’t shake.

Follow the Line by Laura Ljungkvist – I got distracted one day by the Tate museum bookshop online & fell in love with this title. Recently I had the opportunity to flick through the pages & was happy that it lived up to expectation. I can see it opening up so much discussion & opportunities for imagination.

The High Street by Alice Melvin – as shopping is one of my favourite pastime this seems the perfect book to share that experience with. The illustrations have a vintage feel & beautiful colour palette that I find really appealing

The Happy LittleYellow Box by David Carter – this is such a simple idea but so well executed. I worry it might be lost on a small child whereas I know I would give it justice.The Fairy Tales of the Brothers Grimm published by Taschen – I adore fairy tales & this stunning edition has such a variety of illustration, the perfect combination for me!