The little book of hopes by Elyse Shellie and Evie Barrow

The Little Book of Hopes is another glorious addition to that list of book gifts for new or expectant parents (with a similar feel to Alison Lester's Kissed By the Moon). It is a joyous celebration of what every parent hopes for their child, consisting of charming rhyming text surrounded by exquisite illustrations. This is primary school teacher Elyse Shellie's debut picture book and it is a beautiful love letter to little people all over the world. It focusses on kindness, resilience and empathy and Evie Barrow's (Horatio Squeak) illustrations showcase everyday moments in the lives of a culturally and physically diverse group of children. It begins 'I hope that you are caring, and I hope that you are kind. I hope you'll do great things both with your heart and mind.' And so it continues, wishing for honesty, inclusivity, curiosity, empathy, resilience, persistence and standing up for others. It ends 'I hope with all my heart you're happy being you'. The illustrations are beautifully detailed and illustrate these qualities in ways that are relatable and simple (sharing out strawberries, walking across a wobbly bridge, attempting to hula hoop, fixing something when it breaks) and will surely resonate with parents and young readers alike. This is an absolutely timeless and beautiful book that is deserving of a place on every young child's bookshelf. Teacher's notes are available.

Themes: Future, Dreams, Kindness Families, Rhyming Stories.

Nicole Nelson