Not so any more. This is Lulu may be lift-the-flap but it's far from generic and ticks all the right boxes when it comes to narrative style and beauty, too.
Little Lulu is quite small. She lives in a very pretty house with her mummy and daddy and cat Harold. And this is her story.
Lulu waters the flowers. She plays with her favourite toys, she adores her lion mask and has some wonderful friends. She likes to bounce, go shopping and eat ice cream. She also likes to play on the swings and read lots and lots of books.
So, what is so remarkable about Lulu's life? Well, nothing. And that's what makes this book so precious. A day in the life of a toddler may not be anything new but this book is absolutely adorable for its everyday meanderings from park to shops to her sleepytime bed - tots will absolutely love it and enjoy relating to all the tiny rituals little ones enjoy.
The text is warm, inviting and inclusive. The illustrations are utterly pretty and great fun. The lift-the-flaps are totally irresistable and Lulu is as charming as a cupcake, making for a feel-good book that will be dog-eared in no time. Best you get a second copy to keep on the good shelf, too.
Title: This is Lulu
Author: Camilla Reid
Illustrator: Ailie Busby
Publisher: Bloomsbury, $19.99 RRP
Publication Date: July 2011
ISBN: 9781408802649
Format: Soft cover
For ages: 1 - 5
Type: Picture Book/Lift-the-Flap