"Discovering a magic realm of sweets helps Pip realise not everything that sparkles is good."
Pip's Sweet Escape by Alexandra Osbourne is an interesting picture book that sees Pip the squirrel eating fruits, nuts and seeds but wishing for something more, his wish leads him to a world of sweets and the sugar goblin, and Pip realises that sweet things aren’t always good for you.
This is a really interesting way to introduce the concept of healthy eating to young children. The excitement and temptation of sweets and sugar and chocolate is well portrayed with the Sugar Goblin’s castle. However I also loved that it goes on to show the sugar crash, and Pip listening when his body doesn’t feel right. I feel like this book uses traditional feeling storytelling to share a tale of a modern problem, with bright shiny advertisements for new things everywhere, Pip’s story tells of finding a healthy balance and “enough”. Kadysha’s vibrant illustrations bring this story to life, from the starkly bright and sickly pink of the sugar castle to the calmer, more varied and colourful reflection of the forest. An interesting way to introduce the subject of overindulgence and the importance of balance with the easily relatable example of sweets to make the topic accessible for younger readers.
| Suitable For: | |
| Primary Genre | Indie Author Books |
| Other Genres: | |
| Recommendations: |
This book gives a good explanation to younger readers about the temptations of the world through the metaphor of sweets.
It shows how we need to look after ourselves and how we can recognise when to do this.... Read Full Review
Pip has discovered the most dazzling, glittering world imaginable — but something doesn’t feel quite right. In this beautifully illustrated picture book, young readers follow Pip on a deliciously daring adventure through temptation, sparkle and self-discovery. As the glitter fades, Pip learns how to tell the difference between what looks exciting and what truly nourishes him. Pip’s Sweet Escape gently explores self-esteem, emotional awareness, and healthy decision-making in a way children understand — through story, imagination and heart. Perfect for children aged 5–8, this empowering tale encourages confidence, resilience, and trusting your inner voice.
The LoveReading4Kids Editorial Team have read and reviewed Pip's Sweet Escape and determined it is suitable for children aged 5-6 years old
Pip's Sweet Escape features in the following genres: Featured Books for 5+ readers, Indie Author Books , Indie Books We Love, Animal Stories, Recommendations, Children's and Young Adult Fiction, Children’s, Teenage and Educational
Pip's Sweet Escape is available in Paperback
Pip's Sweet Escape was written by Alexandra Osbourne and published by Oops & Wonder