Mr Big

Product Information

This was a great story that I enjoyed reading it and felt the feelings how Mr big encountered through the illustrations and pictures.

More than teaching that however, it shows the effect of this judgement from Mr Bigs point of view which I believe makes the message much more powerful. It also links well to Music, as Mr Big finds solace in playing the piano when he feels sad and lonely.With his trademark bold colour and masterful graphic simplicity, Ed Vere sensitively and humorously tackles the universal and current subject of inclusion, reminding the reader that to get to know someone you need to look beyond their exterior.

As Mr Big plays the piano, the notes flow into the busy city and everyone starts to wonder who this amazing musician is that they would all like to meet. This is good for class reading as pupils can take it in turns to read the dialogue of their favorite characters. There was just the right amount of choice to suit everyone without being overwhelming and I received comments from parents and staff about the quality of books offered compared to previous sales which have always been based around current crazes and well known celebrity authors. I like how the celebrity told the story and they showed the pictures of the story at the same time as it teaches that children don't necessarily need to read books all the time to experience a story. It could be great to use in PSHE related classes to discuss how we should not judge each other on appearances and teach that being big or different is not scary or negative.This has a lovely message about friendship, and joining in, and can speak to children in the younger years about making friends and ensuring that other children don't feel left out. The typography is also clever - text size varies to emphasise different words, which helps both children and adults intonate the story as they read it aloud.

The children also participated in a number of activities based around the text such as role playing, performing in a band and sequencing the events of the story.

Vere’s wide-eyed supporting cast of wide-eyed (notably smaller) characters look fantastic – and suitably anxious. It’s a fantastic independent book seller that will actually be responsive and select appropriate books for you. You guys were so fab and Dawn was such a lovely presence in the schools - I will absolutely be in touch next time I'm in your neck of the woods. from speaking at festivals from Rio to Mexico to Kerala, to curating festival experiences in the UK, to live drawing onstage at The Barbican Centre alongside the Britten Sinfonia, and at The Wigmore hall with the Neil Cowley Trio.