The Royal Show by Yvette Poshoglian

Illus. by Danielle McDonald. Ella and Olivia book 23, Scholastic, 2019. ISBN: 9781742999784.
(Ages 5-7) Recommended. Themes: The Royal Show, Families. Yvette Poshoglian captures the special moments in Ella and Olivia's family life. It's time for The Royal Show and both sisters are busy earning money to spend on showbags and carnival games. Ella and Olivia are in the middle of a cleaning frenzy, 'their bedrooms shine and the living room sparkles!' Everyone's excited, Dad's entering his scones in the baking competition and Mum's created a beautiful quilt to participate in the craft show.
There's a real buzz of excitement as the day finally arrives, they're eager to buy their favourite showbags and watch the wood chopping. When Ella scans her ticket at the gates, bells ring, she's a winner and her prize is a special showbag. Olivia begins to feel a bit let down when Mum and Dad also receive special news about their baking and sewing. How will young Olivia's show day end, will there be a special surprise for her at the evening's events in the Grand Arena?
Yvette Poshoglian's delightful stories are written specifically for early readers who enjoy simple fun plots and relatable characters. She celebrates the special relationship sisters Ella and Olivia share and the simple joys of special events. Danielle McDonald's cute drawings support the transition from picture book to beginning novel. The Royal Show is another charming story just right for young fans.
Rhyllis Bignell