The Small Five

by Ralph Johnstone

Poetic tale of Africa's little-known Small Five animals, as they challenge the fearsome Big Five to a series of thrilling 'bush contests'. Aimed at children aged 3-7.

32 pages, Paperback

Published September 1, 2016

Reviews

[Vonprice · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic and funny picture book.

Read my full review here: https://vsviewfromthebookshelves.home...

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a clever idea for a picture book, and carried out very well too! Any traveller to Africa has heard of the "Big Five", which are the main animal species to watch out for on safari. Here Ralph Johnstone introduces the Small Five, each of which shares part of its name with a Big Five animal (e.g. rhinoceros beetle and rhinoceros).
In near-perfect rhyming quatrains, the story describes the Battle of the Bush - a head-to-head contest between each Big Five animal and its Small Five counterpart. It's a battle of key survival skills, including hunting, survival, parenting, patience and wisdom. No points for guessing which team wins, but this "little rhyme with a big heart" (to quote the blurb) and its wonderful message for young readers - namely, that being big and tough isn't everything; little guys are awesome too - makes this a great book for reading aloud, and leaving kids feeling good about themselves.

[Lisa Jones · Rating 5 out of 5]

This delightful children's book is destined to became a favourite in many households. Beautifully illustrated, it tells the story of how five of the smaller, lesser-known animals of the African plains challenge their larger, better-known neighbours in a battle of wits. Johnstone brings his own experience of living in Kenya and engaging with primary-level education to introduce us to the diversity of Africa's wildlife. Engaging and inspiring, with rhyme, prose and a moral tale, this book truly deserves a place on every child's bookshelf !

[Doreen Johnstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Small Five is a book that ticks all the story needs for children, parents, class / English teachers and adults in remission. The moral lesson of 'its-OK-to-be-small', is shrouded in delightful characters who follow the rules of hierarchy and good sense. Its a fun book, perfect for reading aloud to grandchildren, school classes, visitors and lending to friends who haven't quite yet got to the stage of putting books at the top of their must-have lists. It will never gather dust. A perfect gift for any one in or outside Africa.

[Kate Mikhail · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a great idea for a book that’s really appealing to young children, given that the Small Five do so well in a contest against the Big Five.
It’s also a lovely introduction to Africa and the creatures that live there, with beautiful illustrations to bring it all to life, and I love the fact that it rhymes, as it's so relaxing and satisfying to read.

[Zoe Hickey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this book as it had a message behind it about not having to be the biggest person to be the best at something. This could be a good book to use with a topic on Africa to get the children thinking about the environment they can see.

[Caroline Clow · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must for every child’s bookshelf. Beautifully written and illustrated. Wonderful message to kids (and adults) that you don’t have to be the biggest or strongest or fastest to have talent. My kids love this book and we’ll be keeping it safe to read to the grandkids one day 🌟

[Bligh · Rating 5 out of 5]

My kids simply love The Small Five! So do the visitors to our house. Great resource not only for primary teachers but English language instructors - leads to great discussions on big vs small, wildlife encounters, animal phobias etc. Highly recommend.

[Bev · Rating 4 out of 5]

Picture book with a strong message of equality. Fun learning about African animals with bright pictures.

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emotional. Brilliant. Essential. 5 stars.

[Lillias August · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good that I’ve given it to all the grandchildren. Lots to say about life - delightful words and pictures.