Wren

‘This is a thought-provoking book about the difference between having what we want and wanting what we have. It offers lots of scope for talking about the annoying things in life and their place. It is accompanied by bold, bright illustrations with the noises shown ribboning over the pages so that the reader is vividly part of Wren’s world.’

-- Julia Wills * Carousel *

‘The illustrations by Sophie Beer for this warm-hearted family story are vivacious and vibrant, filled with life and love. They perfectly depict the chaos of a big family with so much colour and movement. This is a big-hearted story about families and siblings that is perfect to read to children aged 3+.’

* Readings *

‘If you have a new baby in your house and an unhappy sibling or two, then this is the perfect book for your family. The illustrations are bright and full of the most hilarious details that will resonate with all children who need a little more space to themselves.’

* Good Reading *

‘The vibrant and engaging story make this a wonderful book for children aged 3-6, and a great choice for anyone bringing a new baby into their family.’

* My Child Magazine *

‘Suitable for ages two and up, Wren is an easy recommendation for anyone looking for stories about families or new siblings. This book is also an excellent way to talk about the importance of giving family members space from each other.’

* Books+Publishing *

‘This is a charming tale exploring the chaos of modern family life, with punchy verse and bright, detailed illustrations kids will love to explore.’

* Herald Sun *

‘Wren is a kid who just wants a little peace and quiet. He lives with his cacophonous family of 4 siblings in the noisy city....The illustrations, “a combination of traditional mark making and digital medium,” are full bleed panoramas of the bustling household, in a palette of bright reds, yellow, and blues, with a slightly retro feel. This is a fun story time read and a light hearted book for families expecting another baby.’

* Youth Services Book Review *

‘Lehman’s story is so sweet and realistic and often funny, and Beer’s detailed illustrations provide endless enjoyment for my daughter (3). There’s always something fun to look at in the background, and everyone’s expressions, including the baby’s, are so on point. I love books that are so well illustrated I can see and hear the sound.’

* Baby Librarians *

‘A cacophony of chaotic sound brings a new brother and sister together...Yet the heart of the story lies in its sibling love. Wren’s eventual relationship with his new baby sister will be a welcome addition to the ranks of such new-baby standouts as One Special Day, by Lola M. Schaefer and illustrated by Jessica Meserve (2012). Sensory overload is no match for the lure of tranquility—until it is, in this effortlessly charming tale.’

* Kirkus Reviews *

‘Desperate for some quiet, Wren moves in with his grandparents in the country, and while at first, he enjoys the quiet, he misses his family, even his noisy baby sister … [S]weet and realistic and often funny…Beer’s detailed illustrations can provide endless enjoyment for children. There’s always something fun to look at in the background, and everyone’s expressions, including the baby’s, are so on point.’

* Book Ri