Title: Call the Puffins

Written by: Cath Howe

Illustrated by: Ella Okstad

Published by: Welbeck Publishing

I have been a fan of Cath Howe and her writing for a long time and have particularly enjoyed her books for middle grade. Cath Howe’s book for younger readers does not disappoint. Call the Puffins is the first in a heart-warming series, complete with a map at the beginning and I really like maps of the story world.

This is a fun and enjoyable adventure for younger readers with themes of bravery, empathy and team work. It is Muffin the Puffin’s first day on the Island of Egg and she is apprehensive about the entrance test to join the Puffin Rescue Team, following in her dad’s footsteps. He explains her feelings are normal for everyone on their first day. Muffin is worried about her feet as they are different to the other puffins, as they turn up on the ends.

Muffin makes a new friend called Tiny who is also different. His wings are larger than normal which means he often gets caught by the wind. They work together with determination and perseverance to overcome their differences and prove they are just as brave and capable as the other puffins.

Ella Okstad’s black and white illustrations have they definitive ahhh factor. They are adorable not only because the puffins are extremely cute they also have movement and action.

The ideal book to share with the class at story time. A joy to read and explore.

I look forward to reading the second book in the series Tiny’s Brave Rescue due to be released October 2023.

I have also previously interviewed Cath Howe about her teacher resource, Let’s Perform for Writers’ Forum. You can find out more about this interview here: An interview with… Cath Howe

You can buy copies of Call the Puffins by Cath Howe and Ella Okstad from your local bookshop, or online at uk.bookshop.org, an organisation with a mission to financially support local, independent bookshops.