A Trip to the Beach is the last adventure in the award winning Iggy and Grandad picture-book series. The first, A Walk in the Bush, won the Children’s Book Council of Australia’s Picture Book of the Year Award in 2018. This latest story once more shares Gwyn Perkins’ superb illustrations as we experience the unique beauty of an Australian summer’s day at the beach.

Initially, Iggy isn’t too sure about the beach, especially the waves (they’re big and sneak up on you), but Grandad helps Iggy to discover the wonders of the iconic coastline. We have fun with them as they build a sandcastle, explore the tide line and the wonders found. We delve into the rock pools and meet the creatures, then stop for some classic fish and chips. Grandad follows this by teaching Iggy to kayak, snorkel and surf.

With all the fun, Iggy has completely forgotten his initial fear and finds his confidence. For readers aged 3+.

Claire Atherfold is the children’s book buyer at Readings State Library.