My dream holiday by Ash Barty with Jasmin McGaughey and Jade Goodwin

A delightful family centred holiday will appeal to all readers as they recognise the sorts of things they also do with their families. Along with the dog, Ash helps put up the tents, getting the eskies ready, bringing out the games and fishing gear from the car. It is an ideal place to camp. In the sloping grassed area leading to the welcoming beach, a cluster of tents are erected, and camp chairs and food brought to the fire spot in the middle. Ash is in a small tent with her dog while the other children share a larger tent. During the day they swim and snorkel, finding all sorts of things on the sea floor. They see whales breaching and turtles swimming by when in the warm afternoon they go to the jetty with Uncle Nick to fish for their dinner.

They all rush back to their camp when mum calls out fours o’clock, meaning afternoon tea is ready. They all share their cakes and biscuits then filling their growling tummies then get out the gear for games.

A skipping rope, set of tennis rackets and a football are all used during the evening.

As the sun goes down, dad lights the campfire, calling them all to sit arround it.

Sleep sees dreams and over the next few days they sing and paddle board and go on hikes. The bush walk takes them past many animals and they watch out for snakes in the undergrowth. At night the sky is full of countless stars. And before too long it is time to pack up and return home, the holiday kept in her mind.

Readers will love reading of this holiday, comparing it with their own, looking at all the different things the cousins do.

The warmth of the family and their close relationships comes through each activity, in the camp, on the beach, on bush walks and in the car.

The illustrations set tle scene perfectly. The colours and vistas all that are expected for a camping holiday at the beach. Readers will enjoy recognising the array of things taken on a holiday, comparing it with their own. It is always amazing that a holiday requires so much extra gear. Ash and her family are drawn with warmth and humour. The children are always active, doing the things they have prepared for.

A lovely warm book to share with children about to go on holiday.

Themes: Holidays, Camping, Family, Beach, Activities.

Fran Knight