Little Ash: Puppy Playtime by Jasmin McGaughey and Jade Goodwin

Little Ash: Puppy Playtime is the 8th and final book in the Little Ash series where tennis star Ash Barty teams up with writer Jasmin McGaughey and illustrator Jade Goodwin to create a series of books all about sport, school, friendship and family. These books are suitable for young readers to listen to from 5 years and up, and very suitable for children who are moving to being independent readers. 

This story tells os a new puppy, Speedy, who joins the family and becomes Ash's best friend. Unfortunately they get into a bit of trouble whilst learning about each other and how to have fun without making a big mess! I liked how at the end of the story it also talks about telling truth when something happens and how when you tell the truth people are thankful and helpful towards the situation. A great lesson for young kiddos. 

The illustrations by Jade Goodwin are enticing and at regular intervals throughout the book, moving it on from an emerging independent reader to a book for an independent reader. Although monotone in colour (or lack of), they still show emotions and add to the interest of the story line. 

A solid 4 out of 5 for this book and also for the series. I look forward to reading more!

Themes: Sport, Friendship, Dogs, Family.

Lauren Fountain