Children’s literature is a realm of endless imagination and enchantment, with authors like Jill Tomlinson leaving an indelible mark on young minds. Tomlinson’s delightful stories have captured the hearts of generations of children. In this blog post, we will explore 5 of Jill Tomlinson’s children’s books, including the timeless classic, “The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark,” along with four other remarkable tales that ignite the imagination and nurture a love for reading. For more reading recommendations, check out this blogpost on EYFS books.
The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark
Published in 1968, “The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark” is undoubtedly Jill Tomlinson’s most beloved work. This heartwarming story follows the journey of Plop, a young barn owl who is afraid of the dark. Plop learns valuable lessons from various characters he encounters, including a little boy, a girl guide, and even a cat. Through Plop’s adventures, Jill Tomlinson gently addresses common childhood fears and highlights the importance of embracing the unknown. The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark is available in the Reading Hub digital library!
The Gorilla Who Wanted to Grow Up
In this delightful tale, readers are introduced to a curious and adventurous young gorilla named Pongo. Published in 1974, “The Gorilla Who Wanted to Grow Up” takes readers on a journey through the jungle as Pongo explores the vibrant and diverse wildlife around him. Pongo learns valuable lessons about growing up, the beauty of friendship, and the importance of cherishing his unique qualities.
The Penguin Who Wanted to Find Out
Published in 1989, “The Penguin Who Wanted to Find Out” follows the story of Otto, a young penguin who is endlessly curious about the world beyond the icy confines of his home. Otto embarks on an expedition to discover more about the world and encounters a host of fascinating creatures. This engaging and educational tale encourages children to explore their natural curiosity. The story imparts valuable lessons about the importance of perseverance and learning from others.
The Cat Who Wanted to Go Home
“The Cat Who Wanted to Go Home,” published in 1994, is a charming story about a tabby cat named Suzy. Suzy finds herself lost far away from her cozy home and embarks on an extraordinary journey to find her way back. Along the way, she encounters new friends and learns about trust, determination, and the true meaning of home. Jill Tomlinson’s beautifully descriptive writing captures the essence of Suzy’s adventure, making this book a delightful read for children of all ages.
The Aardvark Who Wasn’t Sure
In this endearing tale published in 1999, we meet Brian, a young aardvark who struggles with his identity. Brian is unsure of what kind of animal he is and embarks on a journey to find out. Throughout his quest, he encounters various animals and learns to appreciate the unique traits that make him special. This uplifting story promotes self-acceptance, celebrates individuality, and encourages young readers to embrace their own unique qualities.
Captivate your pupils
The collection of children’s books by Jill Tomlinson has left an enduring legacy in the realm of children’s literature. Her stories continue to captivate and inspire young readers. Through her engaging characters and compelling narratives, Tomlinson weaves important life lessons with delightful adventures, encouraging children to embrace their fears, nurture their curiosity, and appreciate their own unique qualities. Introducing children to Jill Tomlinson’s best works will undoubtedly ignite their love for reading. We hope you enjoy these recommendations!
If you’re looking for some lesson inspo, look no further! Check out our resource on The Owl Who Was Afraid of the Dark here.
