BY DAWN WOODS

 

Katie Morag McCall has been around for a while, however, she remains a favourite with children and adults alike. Children love her child like reactions to events. Adults love the quaint, reassuring setting and soft water colour illustrations.

In these four stories we are introduced to Katie's family – her parents, baby Liam, two very different Grandmothers and naughty boy cousins. Family life is depicted as it happens – chaos and mess, but with the love of an extended family and friends around. Mum breastfeeds naturally, which is part of family life. Little details add interest and humour – Grannie Island's frown when Granma Mainland was complimented by a male islander and Katie's worried face when in trouble.

Mairi Hedderwick's beautiful illustrations evoke the Scottish island surroundings so well. Often used in schools for contrasting localities, young children will love and accept the books even if their home life is completely different because they will identify with young Katie.

Katie's stories are short, yet eventful and haven't lost their appeal in 30 years.

 

This book was published by Red Fox Picture Books and is available to buy for £9.99. The second book in the series, More Katie Morag Island Stories can be borrowed from The Hive as well as other Worcestershire libraries. Click here to check availability and check it out.