Gerald Hawksley

This is a bright happy book with clear colourful illustrations and a simple rhyming text. I would have given it three stars except for the inclusion of the line that the happy hippo never frowns.
My kids are grown now, but that phrase bugs me enough that were they still young I wouldn't read them this book. All our emotions are important, including our sadder ones. I've seen too many people hide horrible pain behind smiles, and it's just unhealthy.
The author does say our happy thoughts can show more be saved for a rainy day, but this is a much more abstract concept and less accessible to kids. show less

I LOVE this book! While looking through books for my nephew, I came across this beautifully illustrated rhyming picture book. I finished it in a jiffy and couldn't wait to recite it to my nephew. This is a lovely book with captivating drawings, colours and silly really silly yet amusing rhymes. It has these fun Q&A drawings that absolutely have me roaring every time I read them aloud. A highly recommended book for kids and fun-loving adults alike.

Hawksley is no Dr. Seuss, but his whimsical illustrations and slightly awkward rhymes are still endearing. A good man to have a few pints with, probably. Despite the enthusiasm here, the book is unlikely to bring hats back into fashion, however.

This was just plain fun, with its silly monsters and nonsense rhymes. It's suitable for older picture book readers, or as a read a loud for younger ones. It put a smile on my face. Love a bit of nonsense.