A very funny story that is almost guaranteed to make spiders less frightening both to toddlers and their parents as they read it together; well may be until the last page. Full of humour the story of an unloved, unwanted spider is brilliantly brought to life by one of the UK’s most talented young book illustrators. The book is also full of simple, short phrases for toddlers to widen their vocabulary – phrases such as ‘Look at me’ and ‘Out you go’. The wonderful textured pages including a terrific sparkly spread are a real treat to share.
All Spider wants is to be a family pet. But the family whose house he lives in are terrified of him. Whenever he tries to show them what a great pet he would make, they simply cry, 'Aaaarrgghh, Spider!'.
Themes of tolerance and misunderstanding make key discussion points for children in this book.
Lydia Monks is one of the most original picture book artists working today. Lydia illustrates several bestselling series including the What the Ladybird Heard adventures and Princess Mirror-Belle, written by Julia Donaldson. Her distinctive use of colour and collage has won her critical acclaim and several awards, including the Royal Mail Scottish Children’s Book Award, the Stockport Children’s Book Award and multiple nominations for the Kate Greenaway Medal. She is also the author and illustrator of the preschool picture book series Twit Twoo School. Lydia lives in Sheffield.
Photo credit - Rob King
Things you didn't know about Lydia Monks:
1. She has ginger hair. 2. She goes to tango classes. 3. She has a sister called Julie who also illustrates children’s books. 4. She doesn’t have any pets but would like some. 5. She always talks to cats in the street. 6. She listens to the radio all day while she works. 7. She has won medals and trophies for Irish dancing. 8. She used to have an old, green car that was born in the 1970s, which people used to laugh at. 9. She uses teeny, weeny brushes to work with. 10. She has a husband who is also an illustrator.
Click here to read a Q&A with the author from top children's publisher Egmont.
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