Samuel's Kisses, Australian author Karen Collum's first picture book, is full of fun, games and learning, all with a strong message of love thrown in.
Samuel goes shopping with his Mummy and looks around to see some very sad, grumpy people. As he notices each one, he blows them a kiss, and when the kiss lands it has a magical power that cheers everyone up.
This is a simple story that little ones will love, but with lots of 'hidden' extras that make it so charming and fun.
First, there are the games that are spoken of - peek-a-boo, juggling and dancing - which will have children laughing and playing along. Then, the ways in which young kids can relate to the story - going to the shops, seeing lots of people, making them smile; all such true day-to-day events (and the real magic of children). There is also a real educational element, as the kisses travel up, down, between, under, through and around things, teaching children lots of different concepts.
The illustrations are colourful, fun and full of action, and all those red kisses along the pages will make you feel all warm and cosy inside.
It's the little things that make the best stories, and this is one to be treasured.
(Watch out for a special guest post by author Karen Collum, here on Kids Book Review this afternoon!)
Title: Samuel's Kisses
Author: Karen Collum
Illustrator: Serena Geddes
Publisher: New Frontier, $24.95 RRP
Publication Date: December 2010
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781921042157
For ages: 2 - 4
Type: Picture book
This book is available online
