Snugglepot and Cuddlepie’s Sleepover

Snugglepot and Cuddlepie’s Sleepover by May Gibbs (Scholastic Australia)
HB RRP $19.99
ISBN 978-1-74283-021-6
Reviewed by Jenny Heslop

Snugglepot, Cuddlepie and Ragged Blossom are getting ready for a sleepover when they discover there will be six extra guests. Mrs Kookaburra’s chicks. How will everyone fit into Mrs Koala’s house and will the chicks keep everyone awake with their chirping?

This charming story will reintroduce young children to the classic and enduring Gumnut Babies created by May Gibbs. Soft, gentle pictures with adorable gumnut babies and baby animals will be a hit with young readers - with the illustrations being instantly recognisable to anyone who grew up with Snugglepot and Cuddlepie as bedtime stories.

Snugglepot and Cuddlepie’s Sleepover is a new story based on the iconic characters of May Gibbs. All the characters, from Snugglepot and Cuddlepie, to Mrs Kookaburra, are just as I remember. And the author Mark MacLeod has captured the enchanted atmosphere of the original stories and the flavour of the Australian bush.

Young children will love this book and parents and grandparents will remember May Gibb’s storytelling with nostalgia while enjoying this new addition.