The Style Secrets of Gareth McGreen (Kelly Brodie-Brown, illus Natasha Carty, Scholastic)

The Style Secrets of Gareth McGreen by Kelly Brodie-Brown, illustrated by Natasha Carty (Time to Rest, The Two-nicorn), is a vibrant debut picture book for readers aged 3+ who enjoy Megan Hess’ Claris series. The first thing that stands out about the book is the use of colour – bright, bold and playful. Carty’s illustrations are full of charm and character, making rich use of double-page spreads layered with detail. Readers are introduced to Gareth McGreen, a stylish toad and fashion designer. Animals travel from far and wide to Gareth’s fashion house, where he designs everything from ‘smooth silky sweaters for snails’ to ‘prim pointy shoes for chic cockatoos’. Gareth meets his biggest challenge when a posh possum commissions a birthday gown for her daughter, Janine. While the dress is beautifully made, it doesn’t bring a smile to Janine’s face because she’d rather wear pants. In helping her find the right outfit, Gareth gently teaches both Janine, her mother and readers that true style is about self-expression and wearing what feels right. Brodie-Brown tells the story in lively rhyme and alliteration, creating a fun and engaging read-aloud. A delightful celebration of individuality and being yourself, The Style Secrets of Gareth McGreen is a charming and confident debut that sparkles with warmth and visual flair.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Jess Lomas is reviews editor for Books+Publishing. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

Books+Publishing pre-publication reviews are supported by the Copyright Agency Cultural Fund.

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