These are a few of my favourite things #19

 

Lifestyle/Other:

Forest Walk

I had a natural break from taking photographs to pursue other hobbies but recently my family introduced me to a woodland I hadn’t explored before. At just the right moment, there were some lovely light effects coming through the trees, and nearby were lots of wild plants growing. I chose to go quite close up with my camera, and these photos were my favourite.

Books:

Best Friends Bakery Cupcakes & Contests by Linda Chapman

We follow Hannah, aged ten, and her love for baking as she takes part in a TV baking contest. I mostly do healthy baking, so when this book delved into how to make bread, I was really excited. 

There’s a strong sense of family, friendship and enjoying your passions. Part of the conclusion surprised me but left me thinking about my own similarities to Hannah. This is the third in the series, but I had no problems reading it as a standalone.

How to Reset by Vicki Vrint

When looking in my local The Works store, I always gravitate towards the self-help section. I’ve read and enjoyed other books by this author, so knew I wanted to give ‘How to Reset’ a read.

Some of her ideas are very interesting, and I found myself using little sticky tabs several times. The words on the front of the book summarize things perfectly: ‘Simple tips to help you rediscover yourself and live life to the full.’

How to Be Awesome by Sophie Golding

I picked this one up as it looked like a fun read. I gravitated towards the typography, bright colours, and charming quality. I’ve read other books by Sophie Golding, so I had a good idea that this would be the same sort of thing.

The tone of voice was upbeat, while supportive, offering simple tips to tweak your routine. I felt it would make a good gift for someone going through a change in lifestyle. It might best suit people in their late teens or early twenties.

Splash! By Flora McDonnell

Splash is a bilingual picture book written in English and French. We learn about how animals keep cool in hot climates, and I felt it was a good way for children to familiarize themselves with another language. The story and illustrations had a beautiful sentiment to them; it was such a pleasant experience turning each page.

A Polar Bear by Mac Barnett

I love when authors and illustrators use simplicity with picture books, and this one showed a lot of skill in how it was executed. We follow an average day for a polar bear, with a play on words, and the use of collage to illustrate the snow and setting.

Dogs in Disguise by Peter Bently

If you have an affection for dogs, I think you would enjoy this one as much as me. As you turn each page, it’s nice to take your time looking through the artwork. The humour, rhyming, and memorable illustrations make this a wonderful picture book.

How to Grow a Unicorn by Rachel Morrisroe

This isn’t just a book about unicorns, but also about a little girl’s relationship with her grandma and their connection through gardening. Along with the magical elements, it was a really great allrounder.

13 Modern Artists Children Should Know by Brad Finger

This book does what it says on the tin, introducing children to the top artists that are worth knowing about. It was well laid out, easy to read, and a great choice for children who have an interest in art.

Films:

Ever After: A Cinderella Story (1998)

‘This updated adaptation of the classic fairy tale tells the story of Danielle (Drew Barrymore), a vibrant young woman who is forced into servitude after the passing of her father.’

There’s just something about this film that I enjoy coming back to every so often. The original story of Cinderella has always interested me, particularly as a child, and I felt the retelling was done well.

How has your month been?

Have you found any recommendations? :-) Xx