The story explores the theme of embracing one's uniqueness, highlighting how even those who feel small can possess a giant spirit. Through engaging illustrations and relatable characters, it conveys a powerful message about confidence and self-acceptance, encouraging readers to recognize their own strengths regardless of size. Barry Falls' storytelling charm brings this uplifting narrative to life, making it a delightful read for children.
A powerful and poetic imaginative adventure from the creator of Alone, shortlisted for the Waterstones Children's Book Prize!
There once was a boy called Billy McGill who lived by himself at the top of a hill. He spent every day in his house all alone for Billy McGill liked to be on his own. But life doesn't always turn out how you plan it... One day Billy hears the squeak of a mouse – destroying his perfectly peaceful existence. So he gets a cat to catch the mouse. But the cat and the mouse make friends. So he gets a dog to chase the cat. But they all play together too. So then he gets a bear... then a tiger... and on it goes, until Billy's house is so filled with characters that he has to move out. Will he find that he still craves peace and quiet, or is it actually quite lovely to have company and friends? The brilliant second book from Barry Falls is a laugh-out-loud tale of growing chaos, with a lovely message about how it's good to have friends.
So go and play and live and learn. It's your world now, this is your turn to think and ask and make and do. The world is magic, just like you! A beautiful, moving and funny celebration of life that highlights the potential of each and every child. This is the perfect book to read out loud - helping children to appreciate the wonderful things that exist in the world, and the great things that they can do. It also allows them to understand some of the setbacks that may occur along the way. And the overall message is that whatever happens, you will always be loved by those closest to you. Barry Falls' illustrations burst from the page with exuberant detail while his rhyming text is a delight to read. This is a gorgeous, funny and thought-provoking celebration of where you might go and what you might do in life.