Early Years (0-7) Shortlist
Goat and Donkey in Strawberry Sunglasses
by Simon Puttock and Russell Julian
About the book
When Goat offers to do the grocery shopping, Donkey knows that things might just get a little muddled! He writes out a list so that Goat will know exactly what to buy. But the market is such a dazzling place and Goat sees so many lovely things. Instead of apples, carrots, cabbages and ice cream, Goat buys a sun hat, an inflatable octopus, a trumpet and a pair of sunglasses decorated with strawberries! What ever will Donkey make of all the surprises that Goat has in his basket when he trots triumphantly back home? Goodness knows!A delightful duo - Goat and Donkey are ready to entertain children and parents everywhere.
What the shortlist judges said:
"When you go shopping it's very tempting to get distracted ... who can blame Goat for buying a trumpet and a pair of sunglasses decorated with a strawberry sunglasses instead of boring carrots and cabbages?! This book is not only very funny it's utterly charming, with an important message about what makes a good friend."
About the author
Simon Puttock was born in New Zealand and, as a child, traveled all over the world with his family. He wanted to be a vet when he was little, but grew up to become a bookseller. He was particularly interested in children's books and was chosen to be a short-listing Children's Whitbread judge. He has since become a full-time writer, creating 24 children's books, and winning the Early Years award at the Royal Mail Scottish Children's Book Awards, 2006. Simon lives in Edinburgh. Read more about Simon here ...
About the illustrator
Russell Julian studied illustration at Anglia University in Cambridge. He works in acrylic, creating strong characters and soft landscapes, using unusual perspectives to add visual depth. His inspiration comes from paintings, films and his favourite hobby - gardening.
