Feathers for Phoebe - Rod Clement

Reading to children is one way that you can instil a love of books into a child. I try to read daily to my children. Not only picture books but I read chapter books to my older children. It is a time that we all love. To promote reading stories and to add some fun to the activity ALIA (Australian Library and Information Association) has an annual event, National Simultaneous Storytime. This is an event where schools, libraries and families can register to read a specific story and an agreed time. This year it is 11am Wednesday 25th may, 2011. This year the story is Feathers for Phoebe

Phoebe is a plain grey bird who wants to get noticed. Zelda is a multicoloured, extroverted, talented and famous bird who owns the local salon. She is more than happy to help Phoebe realize her dream by adding some colour here and there and everywhere. From head dress to tail feathers, wing trims and chest feather Phoebe becomes the colourful flashy bird she has always wanted to be. She also adds some grooves and a new warble to get others to notice her. Will this fabulous transformation get Phoebe the attention she so desires?

This book has eye-catchingly, colourful illustrations and the voice of Zelda is flamboyant and genuine. As I read the story I used a voice for Zelda that was (hopefully) reminiscent of Dame Edna Everage which the kids loved. This story encourages children to consider outside appearances and to look beyond these and to think about what is most important. There are several themes that are addressed though the book that you can discuss with children after you read. Ideas such as self-esteem, identity, self-acceptance and appearances.

A great book with a message that isn't pushed too hard but gets kids thinking. 8/10