Through the Forest is an enchanting book where the child has the opportunity to choose their own path by turning to specified pages, and influence how the story ultimately unfolds. This is brilliant for two main reasons – two-and-a-half year olds love being able to exercise their preferences (in my limited experience, that is!) and as a parent the story never becomes tired, even after several renditions.
This hard back book is beautifully illustrated by Steffi Brocoli and uses clear yet challenging language. The pages are cut from a great quality, thick paper and the tabs that separate the pages to help the reader move through the story are thoughtfully cut into interesting and colourful shapes.
Also, Isabella loved the fact that she could spot the number on the page of the story, then search down the tabs to find the corresponding number to move the tale forwards.
Isabella loved the detail in the story that helped her to use her emerging imaginative mind, for example "knock knock! Who's there? Look up! Can you see? It's the green woodpecker, hunting for tiny insects that are hidden in the bark of the tree."
Finally, the book serves as a thoughtful yet creative introduction to the fascinating world of nature, without switching off younger readers. Full marks from us.
PWT rating: ♥♥♥♥♥
Published by Thames and Hudson Through the Forest