The Gift

This is on the Reading Lists for Years 3 to 4 for the Premier's Reading Challenge and it is perfect for them to tick the book off their list... however, the text and pictures are definitely better suited as a Picture Storybook for kids aged 3 to 6.

A rather plain bear sits next to a gorgeous plush crocodile in the toy shop. As Christmas shopping becomes frantic, each one hopes to be chosen as a gift, and to find a home with a child to love him. But as hope dwindles, the little bear makes his own gift to the crocodile.

About the Author

Penny Matthews is a freelance writer and editor based in Adelaide. She has written three junior novels, several chapter books for beginning readers, and picture books for all age groups. Her picture books include Pudding and Chips (a Children's Book Council of Australia Notable Book in 2005), Little Red Bear (shortlisted for the Queensland Premier's Literary Awards in 2004) and A Year On Our Farm, which was the CBCA's 2003 Book of the Year (Early Childhood) and an Honour Book in the Picture Book of the Year awards. In 2010 Something About Water was joint winner of the Wilderness Society's Environment Award for Children's Literature. A Girl Like Me, her first young adult novel, was also a 2010 CBCA Notable Book and won the Sisters in Crime's 2011 Davitt Award for Young Adult Fiction.

As well as being an author of note, Penny is a much-valued member of the Books for Children and Young Adults team at Penguin Australia. She co-ordinates and edits the highly regarded Puffin Aussie Bites and Nibbles program.