The Tiny Woman’s Coat

A tiny woman needs a new coat, but has no supplies, how will she keep warm as the weather turns cold? Teamwork is required! Plants and animals supply all the necessary materials to keep the tiny woman warm. If this story seems familiar, you are not mistaken, perhaps you remember reading it when you were a young reader at school? It was first written by Joy Cowley in 1987 and Gecko Press have turned the story into a beautiful book with lots to hold the attention of young readers. Simple language and repetition on many pages e.g., “Stitch, stitch, stitch” make for joining in opportunities when used as a read aloud.

Giselle Clarkson’s illustrations are delightful, gestural and turning moody, depicting the weather turning increasingly gloomy. The illustrations are quite simple but portray so much detail and emotion, such as on the face of the tiny woman. Young readers will feel her glee at holding two enormous blackberries as the illustration is so joyful! The illustrations give clues to what is coming next in the story, giving readers pause to ponder what might be on the next page.

A heartfelt story that young readers will want to read many times over and a great inspiration to teachers for art projects incorporating leaves.

Title: The Tiny Woman’s Coat

Author: Joy Cowley

Illustrator: Giselle Clarkson

Publisher: Gecko Press

ISBN: 978-1-776573-42-4

RRP: $24.99

Format: Hardcover Picture Book

Publication: 2021

Ages: 3+

Themes: Teamwork, resourcefulness and friendship

Do you have any advisory warnings for this book? No

Would this book work as a read aloud? It is perfect for reading aloud

Is there a particular part of the country that it’s set in? No

Reviewer: Louana McCormack, Librarian, Opaheke School, Auckland

How are you recommending this book? Highly recommended.

Opening sentence: The Tiny woman wanted a coat.

You can buy this book here