My sister by Joanna Young

New Frontier Press, 2018. ISBN 9781925594041
(Age: 3-5) Themes: Sisters. Family. Friendship. London based author illustrator, Joanna Young, writes a lovingly conceived tale of sisters, based on her own experiences growing up with a sister who was very close. Deceptively simple warmly coloured illustrations cover each page as the bold print outlines the relationship between the two girls. They grow up together, sharing jokes and play time, telling each other secrets and keeping them safe, keeping them up when they are down, walking with them, being a close and supportive sister.
The soft-edged illustrations complement the text on each page, displaying what the sisters do for each other, underlining their closeness and reciprocal delight in each other.
This would work well in a class where families are being discussed as it shows the importance of closeness and support within a family.
Children will be able to reflect on the relationships within their own families and see them as part of the wider emphasis on how each member of family has a role in supporting each other.
Fran Knight