Varmints: Part one Paperback – 1 Oct. 2007

tempted to buy more for christmas as they make perfect gifts!

Lovely book!

This is a lovely concept but in reality if it is a children's book, it's just impossible to read before bedtime when the lights are dimmed! It's so dark and the writing is really hard to read even in good daylight. My child found it really off putting as she could see the text.

Winner of the English 4-11 2007 Award for Key Stage 2 FictionThe design and layout of this book immediately make the reader curious. Who is this creature staring straight at you on the cover? A dictionary definition of "var+mint" is on the opening page and then you turn to the first illustration of bees flying over rustling grass beneath a vast skyscape and a text which begins in the picture and then runs along the bottom of the page. "There was once only the sound of bees and the wind in the wiry grass, the low murmuring of moles in the cool dark earth..." But there are changes afoot and, as other inhabitants come, and "tall buildings scratched the sky where the birds once sang", there is a loss of the quietness - peace is drowned out by noise. Helen Ward's economy of language, together with the dramatic images of Mark Craste combine to make this a very imaginative and thought provoking story which will certainly stimulate children in key stage 2.

A beautiful story, beautifully illustrated. As a teacher, I've used this book with young children and young adults and it has universal appeal. I love it myself and this purchase is for my little son who's only a tiny thing yet but I want it to be one of his favourites too!

Possibly the best illustrations in a book I've seen, and a beautiful message to present to children too. Take care of the earth. It's the only one we have.