It's Very Hairy (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9781923750166)

"It's very hairy!" Ellie exclaims when she spots something buzzing in the garden. At first, the stripes and buzzing make her feel unsure, but with gentle guidance from Ollie the golden retriever, Ellie soon discovers that bees are not something to fear - they are something to admire.

As the tiny creature moves from flower to flower, Ellie learns that bees have fuzzy bodies that help collect pollen, that they communicate through special dances, and that they can even recognise faces. What begins as a moment of uncertainty quickly turns into a fascinating discovery about one of nature's most important and incredible insects.

It's Very Hairy! by Marina Swan is a heartwarming and educational children's book designed for ages 4-8. Combining real-life photography with gentle storytelling, this story introduces young readers to the important role bees play in our environment. Through Ellie and Ollie's garden adventure, children are encouraged to explore curiosity, overcome fear through understanding, and develop a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

Perfect for home reading, classrooms, and school libraries, this book aligns naturally with the Early Years Learning Framework. It supports key developmental outcomes such as curiosity, confidence, communication skills, and understanding the environment. Teachers and caregivers can use the story to guide discussions about insects, pollination, and the importance of protecting living things, while also supporting social-emotional learning by helping children understand how learning can turn fear into confidence.

A unique feature of this book is the interactive colouring-in format. On the left-hand page, children can colour their own version of each garden scene, while the right-hand page displays the real-life photograph of Ellie, Ollie, and the bees. This side-by-side layout encourages children to match colours, strengthen fine motor skills, and engage creatively with the story, building both observation and artistic expression.

At the back of the book, activity and discussion questions support comprehension and extend learning beyond the story. These prompts encourage children to reflect on what they have learned, think more deeply about the role of bees in nature, and share their ideas with parents, teachers, or peers. This makes the book ideal for guided reading, classroom learning, and interactive discussions.

Through Ellie and Ollie's gentle and reassuring adventure, young readers are invited to see the beauty in even the smallest creatures. The story celebrates curiosity, learning, and the importance of understanding the world around us.

Whether you are a parent, teacher, librarian, or caregiver, It's Very Hairy! is a meaningful and engaging addition to any child's library. Through the warm storytelling of Marina Swan, children will discover that when we take the time to learn, even the things that seem a little scary can become something truly amazing.