Books of the Year - Books for Keeps, November 2022
Charlotte Hacking, Central Learning Programmes Director at CLPE
"Books for the youngest readers are often taken for granted, but it a real and specific skill to craft and illustrate narratives for this age group. Zeki Rise and Shine and Zeki Sleep Tight by Anna McQuinn, illustrated by Ruth Hearson (Alanna Max) deserve applause and celebration.
This is a team of writer, illustrator and publisher who deeply understand their audience and how to engage and enchant their readers and cater for their specific needs.
These quiet stories centre on real and everyday experiences that every child can relate to. The rich and evocative language enriches a growing vocabulary and invites the reader to join in. The carefully observed illustrations capture attention, build visual literacy skills and richly develop characters and their world.
The books are published perfectly for tiny hands – in a perfect size, with heavyweight paper and rounded corners. Perfect reads for 0-5 year olds.
After a big sleep, it’s time for Zeki to wake up...
One by one his eys, ears, mouth and nose, head shoulders, knees and toes bounce into action. By the last spread, he has simmed into sharp shorts and put on his buzzy, busy top and he’s ready for anything! An energetic companion to Zeki Sleep Tight, Zeki’s morning routine will appeal to any young child. |
After a busy day, it’s time for Zeki to wind down...
One by one his senses get ready to slow down: the room is hushed, the lights are low, and by the last spread Zeki is ready to sleep. A gentle companion to Zeki, Rise & Shine, Zeki’s evening routine is a perfect way to end the day. |
dreamy lyrical prose for winding down at bedtime & Zeki Rise and Shine...
bouncy, rich text for wake-up...
Anna McQuinn & Ruth Hearson have done it again!
Beautifully written, cleverly illustrated, high-quality texts. – Candid Cocoa
Parents of any toddler will relate to these and should definitely add a few of Zeki’s adventure to their book collections. – LibraryGirl & BookBoy (Jo)
Publishers
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