We were given the book ‘What the Ladybird Heard’ by Julia Donaldson several years ago as part of World Book Week. We love that book and it has been read many, many times (as most of Julia’s books are) in our house.
When I was asked to review the sequel, ‘What the Ladybird Heard Next’, I of course jumped at the chance! I hoped it would be just as amusing and clever as the first book and I was not disappointed.
The hardback book I received was a good size with the same beautiful illustrations by Lydia Monk. All the same characters are included in the sequel with the addition of a hive of bees.
The storyline follows the fat red hen, whose eggs have been disappearing. It appears that Lanky Len and Hefty Hugh are back again, stealing the eggs and planning to steal the hen as well. Fortunately the ladybird had heard their plan and the farm animals hatch a plan to stop them, confusing the thieves with an imaginary bird the ‘snuggly snerd’.
The rhyming is fantastic, it’s easy to read and definitely amusing even for the parents, which of course helps when you have to read the story several times over!
Our copy of the book (hardback) also has the glittery raised pictures, which are a lovely sensory touch and both boys like to run their fingers over them (or scratch them!) whilst reading.
All in all this is a beautifully written rhyming story, with great animal illustrations. A fantastic read for young children.
What the Ladybird Heard Next is out on September 10th, however if you want to pre-order a copy then click here.
J x
Disclaimer: I was given this book for the purpose of this review, all opinions are my own.
Louise (Little Hearts, Big Love) says
We love the original book too – didn’t realise there was a sequel coming out and just in time for Jessica’s birthday too! Will have to add this to her birthday list 🙂
Claire says
We love what the ladybird heard in this house. This follow on book sounds fantastic too.
Laura @ Life with Baby Kicks says
Ooh sounds like one to get for birthday reading!
The Reading Residence says
I did not know there was a sequel coming! We must get this, love the first book 🙂
Jenny Eaves says
I’m sure she’ll love it! 🙂 x
Jenny Eaves says
Well, with your blog name I should think so! It really is a lovely read. 🙂 x
Jenny Eaves says
It is lovely, definitely recommend it! 🙂 x
Jenny Eaves says
A must have if you have the first! 🙂 x
Verily Victoria Vocalises says
Grace used to LOVE the first book so I am so pleased to hear that a sequel has been written. It sounds like a good ‘un! Thanks for linking to #PoCoLo x
Jenny Eaves says
It is really good, we’ve been reading it loads. 🙂 x
Training Mummy says
Awww I am so excited about this book coming out and will definitely be getting it for M (maybe a gift from her baby brother or sister).
Jenny Eaves says
I’m sure it will be loved, then you can also write a little dedication at the front to from the baby. 🙂 x
Mamavsteacher says
ooo… I’m excited that there’s a sequel! We love the first one! #Triedandtested
Kim Carberry says
Aww! What a cute little book….I can remember the first book….This sounds just as good x
Sian - The Mama Story says
Oooh what great news – my daughter’s love the original book!
#TriedTested
Colette B says
I LOVE What the Ladybird Heard – I didn’t know there was a sequel so thank you so much for introducing me to that!
Thanks for sharing your review on #TriedTested this week x
Nia says
I am so excited about this!! The first one is one of my girls’ faves and they often bring it to me to read to them so I’ll be v happy to have a new version to learn all the words to 😉 absolutely love Julia Donaldson, she’s a genius. Looks like your little one does too!
Vickie Rich says
Oh we love What the Ladybird Heard (and everything else JD writes) so I can’t wait to grab this one too! Thanks for the heads up. Vx
Jenny Eaves says
You’ll definitely enjoy this one too then! 🙂 x
Jenny Eaves says
Ha ha, yes we will know all the words off by heart soon too! We have most of Julia Donaldson’s books now, they are fab! 🙂 x
Jenny Eaves says
Hope you enjoy it if you buy! We love it! 🙂 x
Jenny Eaves says
Hope you enjoy this one too then! 🙂 x
Jenny Eaves says
It is lovely, great for little kids! 🙂 x
Jenny Eaves says
You have to read this one too then! 🙂 x
Aimee Foster says
We love Julia’s books in our house and I had no idea there was a sequel to What The Ladybird Heard! Can’t wait to get it to add to the collection x
Jenny Eaves says
It’s a definite must if you are Julia Donaldson fan! 🙂 x