Milly, Molly and Different Dads

Text: Gill Pittar

Illustrations: Cris Morrell

Year: 2002

Publisher: Milly Molly Books, New Zealand

Age: 4 – 6 years

No. of Pages: 24

Book Type: Picture Book, Life Skills Education

ISBN:  942 1 87729 719 4

Families are different. This book brings home the message in a very powerful way.

Little Sophie comes to class crying. Her dad’s packed his suitcase and gone away. So, Mrs. Blythe gets the children to talk about their dads. Sophie realizes every dad is different.

In the wise words of her teacher, “That’s just the way it is.”

Excerpt

“I’ve got two Dads,” said Elizabeth.

“I’ve only got one Dad,” said Milly.

“My Dad’s away with the Army and I only see him sometimes,” Harry added.

Me and My Dad

Text: Alison Ritchie

Illustrations: Alison Edgson

Year: 2007

Publisher: Little Tiger Press, London

Age: 3 – 6 years

No. of Pages: 32

Book Type: Picture book

ISBN:  978 1 84506 465 5

This delightfully illustrated tender expression of love from a cuddly, baby bear to his strong, tall daddy bear is a treasure.

The book traces a day in the life of the cub, from his father’s wake-up kiss to cuddling with his dad at night and packed with all their fun adventures in between.

This is a memorable book especially because of its enchanting illustrations that celebrate the love of a parent and child. 

Excerpt

My dad tells me stories as

As day turns to night.

We cuddle up close

In the twinkling light. 

Sam’s Snowflake

Text: Gillian Shields

Illustrations: Rosie Reeve

Year: 2008

Publisher: Macmillan Children’s Books, London

Age: 2 – 6 years

No. of Pages: 32

Book Type: Picture Book, paperback

ISBN: 978 0 23053 178 9

This is a gentle Christmas story that explores the deep bond that children forge with their dads.

Little Sam can’t wait to do fun things with his dad but he’s gone away to ‘fetch a special Christmas surprise’.

As Christmas Eve slowly fades into a cold, dark night Sam worries that his dad might get lost. He makes a glittery star that he puts up at the highest window to guide his father back home.

The book offers a gentle opportunity to explain to little ones, especially those prone to separation anxiety that parents come back. 

Oh yes, there’s a generous smattering of glitter through the pages too! :-)

Excerpt

Sam couldn't wait for the snow to come.

Every Christmas, Dad helped him to make a snow bear, took him toboganning and played roly-poly snowball fights.