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What the Ladybird Heard #3
What the Ladybug Heard at the Zoo
The zany third book in the What the Ladybug Heard series, following our brave ladybug as she visits the zoo and foils a plan to steal the Queen's crown.
Ladybug is ready for a vacation! When she flies into the city, the last thing she expects is to run into those no-good robbers Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len. This time, the dastardly duo have their sights set on Monkey Joe, resident of the local zoo--with his help, they hope to break into the Queen's palace! It will take all the animals, including the Queen's famous corgis, to put an end to this royal mischief.
Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks have done it again in this latest laugh-out-loud romp, What the Ladybug Heard at the Zoo.
Ladybug is ready for a vacation! When she flies into the city, the last thing she expects is to run into those no-good robbers Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len. This time, the dastardly duo have their sights set on Monkey Joe, resident of the local zoo--with his help, they hope to break into the Queen's palace! It will take all the animals, including the Queen's famous corgis, to put an end to this royal mischief.
Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks have done it again in this latest laugh-out-loud romp, What the Ladybug Heard at the Zoo.
32 pages, Hardcover
First published June 27, 2017
About the author
Julia Donaldson
1,244 books2,020 followersGrowing up
I grew up in a tall Victorian London house with my parents, grandmother, aunt, uncle, younger sister Mary and cat Geoffrey (who was really a prince in disguise. Mary and I would argue about which of us would marry him).
Mary and I were always creating imaginary characters and mimicking real ones, and I used to write shows and choreograph ballets for us. A wind-up gramophone wafted out Chopin waltzes.
I studied Drama and French at Bristol University, where I met Malcolm, a guitar-playing medic to whom I’m now married.
Busking and books
Before Malcolm and I had our three sons we used to go busking together and I would write special songs for each country; the best one was in Italian about pasta.
The busking led to a career in singing and songwriting, mainly for children’s television. I became an expert at writing to order on such subjects as guinea pigs, window-cleaning and horrible smells. “We want a song about throwing crumpled-up wrapping paper into the bin” was a typical request from the BBC.
I also continued to write “grown-up” songs and perform them in folk clubs and on the radio, and have recently released two CDs of these songs.
One of my television songs, A SQUASH AND A SQUEEZE, was made into a book in 1993, with illustrations by the wonderful Axel Scheffler. It was great to hold the book in my hand without it vanishing in the air the way the songs did. This prompted me to unearth some plays I’d written for a school reading group, and since then I’ve had 20 plays published. Most children love acting and it’s a tremendous way to improve their reading.
My real breakthrough was THE GRUFFALO, again illustrated by Axel. We work separately - he’s in London and I’m in Glasgow - but he sends me letters with lovely funny pictures on the envelopes.
I really enjoy writing verse, even though it can be fiendishly difficult. I used to memorise poems as a child and it means a lot to me when parents tell me their child can recite one of my books.
Funnily enough, I find it harder to write not in verse, though I feel I am now getting the hang of it! My novel THE GIANTS AND THE JONESES is going to be made into a film by the same team who made the Harry Potter movies, and I have written three books of stories about the anarchic PRINCESS MIRROR-BELLE who appears from the mirror and disrupts the life of an otherwise ordinary eight-year-old. I have just finished writing a novel for teenagers.
When I’m not writing I am often performing, at book festivals and in theatres. I really enjoy getting the children in the audience to help me act out the stories and sing the songs. When Malcolm can take time off from the hospital he and his guitar come too. and it feels as if we’ve come full circle - back to busking.
I grew up in a tall Victorian London house with my parents, grandmother, aunt, uncle, younger sister Mary and cat Geoffrey (who was really a prince in disguise. Mary and I would argue about which of us would marry him).
Mary and I were always creating imaginary characters and mimicking real ones, and I used to write shows and choreograph ballets for us. A wind-up gramophone wafted out Chopin waltzes.
I studied Drama and French at Bristol University, where I met Malcolm, a guitar-playing medic to whom I’m now married.
Busking and books
Before Malcolm and I had our three sons we used to go busking together and I would write special songs for each country; the best one was in Italian about pasta.
The busking led to a career in singing and songwriting, mainly for children’s television. I became an expert at writing to order on such subjects as guinea pigs, window-cleaning and horrible smells. “We want a song about throwing crumpled-up wrapping paper into the bin” was a typical request from the BBC.
I also continued to write “grown-up” songs and perform them in folk clubs and on the radio, and have recently released two CDs of these songs.
One of my television songs, A SQUASH AND A SQUEEZE, was made into a book in 1993, with illustrations by the wonderful Axel Scheffler. It was great to hold the book in my hand without it vanishing in the air the way the songs did. This prompted me to unearth some plays I’d written for a school reading group, and since then I’ve had 20 plays published. Most children love acting and it’s a tremendous way to improve their reading.
My real breakthrough was THE GRUFFALO, again illustrated by Axel. We work separately - he’s in London and I’m in Glasgow - but he sends me letters with lovely funny pictures on the envelopes.
I really enjoy writing verse, even though it can be fiendishly difficult. I used to memorise poems as a child and it means a lot to me when parents tell me their child can recite one of my books.
Funnily enough, I find it harder to write not in verse, though I feel I am now getting the hang of it! My novel THE GIANTS AND THE JONESES is going to be made into a film by the same team who made the Harry Potter movies, and I have written three books of stories about the anarchic PRINCESS MIRROR-BELLE who appears from the mirror and disrupts the life of an otherwise ordinary eight-year-old. I have just finished writing a novel for teenagers.
When I’m not writing I am often performing, at book festivals and in theatres. I really enjoy getting the children in the audience to help me act out the stories and sing the songs. When Malcolm can take time off from the hospital he and his guitar come too. and it feels as if we’ve come full circle - back to busking.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
July 6, 2017
Oh wow! What a fantastic book! This is a wonderful bed time story that my son and I really enjoy!
While on holidays, the ladybird heard that two crooks want to take a monkey from the zoo, and use him to sneak into the palace to steal the crown jewels... How will she stop them?
This book was undeniably delightful! Beautifully illustrated with brilliant colours and glittered textures on the page, this hardcover book is too good to get my sons grubby hands all over! It is a very sweet story, and is full of rhymes that my son just loves! He enjoys counting all the animals on the pages, especially the dogs. He also loves searching for the ladybird on each page, even though he remembers where they all are after reading it so many times.
From an adult perspective, it is extremely cute and I don't have to fake my enjoyment of it! My son is only 3 years old and his attention span is quite limited, but this book manages to keep his attention with its witty rhyming prose and beautiful illustrations. The pages are really thick so not easily able to tear which is really important for kids books, as little hands tend to pull on the pages a bit too hard at times.
Would we recommend What the Ladybird Heard on Holiday?
Absolutely! A beautiful book that my 3 year old enjoys, and my newborn loves to look at.
Massive thanks to Pan Macmillan and the author, for sending What the Ladybird Heard on Holiday for my son and I to review.
While on holidays, the ladybird heard that two crooks want to take a monkey from the zoo, and use him to sneak into the palace to steal the crown jewels... How will she stop them?
This book was undeniably delightful! Beautifully illustrated with brilliant colours and glittered textures on the page, this hardcover book is too good to get my sons grubby hands all over! It is a very sweet story, and is full of rhymes that my son just loves! He enjoys counting all the animals on the pages, especially the dogs. He also loves searching for the ladybird on each page, even though he remembers where they all are after reading it so many times.
From an adult perspective, it is extremely cute and I don't have to fake my enjoyment of it! My son is only 3 years old and his attention span is quite limited, but this book manages to keep his attention with its witty rhyming prose and beautiful illustrations. The pages are really thick so not easily able to tear which is really important for kids books, as little hands tend to pull on the pages a bit too hard at times.
Would we recommend What the Ladybird Heard on Holiday?
Absolutely! A beautiful book that my 3 year old enjoys, and my newborn loves to look at.
Massive thanks to Pan Macmillan and the author, for sending What the Ladybird Heard on Holiday for my son and I to review.
June 30, 2017
This story is one that is told in rhyme -
That’s a winner for me, every time!
It concerns the ladybird who
Flies to London and visits the zoo.
She hears two thieves who are plotters
Planning to steal Monkey Joe - the rotters!
To discover what happens you’ll need
This delightful story yourself to read.
With zoo animals and the Queen’s corgis, too
The story is action packed through and through.
The illustrations are superb, colourful and bright
And overall I believe this story really is just right!
A fun and entertaining tale children will adore
Reading once then again and again and more.
Via NetGalley I was given a copy of this book
I’m so glad I gave it more than a look
I highly recommend it to anyone who
Knows children who’ll love it, too!
That’s a winner for me, every time!
It concerns the ladybird who
Flies to London and visits the zoo.
She hears two thieves who are plotters
Planning to steal Monkey Joe - the rotters!
To discover what happens you’ll need
This delightful story yourself to read.
With zoo animals and the Queen’s corgis, too
The story is action packed through and through.
The illustrations are superb, colourful and bright
And overall I believe this story really is just right!
A fun and entertaining tale children will adore
Reading once then again and again and more.
Via NetGalley I was given a copy of this book
I’m so glad I gave it more than a look
I highly recommend it to anyone who
Knows children who’ll love it, too!
May 8, 2017
The hits keep on coming from Julia Donaldson, the undisputed modern Queen of Children's Books. This is a delightful tale, wonderfully illustrated, that sees the return of the clever but oh-so-quiet ladybird from the classic What the Ladybird Heard.
Although Donaldson is most well-known for The Gruffalo, my toddler and I actually think some of her other books are as good or better than that story. And the original What the Ladybird Heard is one of our favorites, a zany fun tale that is hugely re-readable, providing ongoing delight in its words and pictures. So we were keen, and hopeful, about this new tale.
It's another home run from Donalson. Her verses are playful and full of fun, capturing the attention of little ones and adults alike as the story unfolds. Monk's illustrations add extra layers, with lots of little 'easter eggs' to discover on multiple reads. Things you can point out and ask your kids about as they follow the story, getting more and more from each read.
Donalson's books are always good, and many are great. This is a great one.
Although Donaldson is most well-known for The Gruffalo, my toddler and I actually think some of her other books are as good or better than that story. And the original What the Ladybird Heard is one of our favorites, a zany fun tale that is hugely re-readable, providing ongoing delight in its words and pictures. So we were keen, and hopeful, about this new tale.
It's another home run from Donalson. Her verses are playful and full of fun, capturing the attention of little ones and adults alike as the story unfolds. Monk's illustrations add extra layers, with lots of little 'easter eggs' to discover on multiple reads. Things you can point out and ask your kids about as they follow the story, getting more and more from each read.
Donalson's books are always good, and many are great. This is a great one.
January 14, 2020
Υπέροχο! Όμορφη εικονογράφηση, αστεία ιστορία που τους έκανε να αγωνιούν για τη συνέχεια. Διαβάστηκε τρεις φορές συνεχόμενες!
December 23, 2020
Bought this for my littlest niece for Christmas and, well, I had to read it first yknow, check it was suitable 😂
An excellent little rhyming tale with gorgeous illustrations
An excellent little rhyming tale with gorgeous illustrations
February 2, 2020
What the Ladybug Heard at the Zoo by Julia Donaldson, illustrated by Lydia Monks. PICTURE BOOK. Henry Holt and Company, 2017. $18. 9781250156709
BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE
AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH
A ladybug overhears two men at the London zoo talk about kidnapping the monkey to help them rob the palace. The ladybug puts a plan into action and distracts the robbers and saves the monkey.
This a fun book to read aloud. It is bouncy and catching with fun rhythm and rhyme. The illustrations are bright and engaging and will appeal mostly to a younger reader. This book is part of a set, What the Ladybug Heard and What the Ladybug Heard Next.
Jen Wecker, HS English Teacher
https://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com/20...
BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE
AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH
A ladybug overhears two men at the London zoo talk about kidnapping the monkey to help them rob the palace. The ladybug puts a plan into action and distracts the robbers and saves the monkey.
This a fun book to read aloud. It is bouncy and catching with fun rhythm and rhyme. The illustrations are bright and engaging and will appeal mostly to a younger reader. This book is part of a set, What the Ladybug Heard and What the Ladybug Heard Next.
Jen Wecker, HS English Teacher
https://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com/20...
May 8, 2017
Another winner from the excellent combination of Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks. The blurb tells enough about the story so I won't dwell on that or give any spoilers, other than to say it is a complete story, with animals, and will definitely hook young children in.
The illustrations are just lovely. So interesting and colourful and the first double page is packed full with simplistic but instantly recognisable London landmarks. So much so, that the name London isn't even used in the book. You can spend ages on that page alone as there's so much going on. I loved looking at all the landmarks in detail and asking children did they know what it was, had they ever been there, what do they think the Queen wears in bed, etc?! And the animal pages had us all making the animal sounds and noises. This makes a good, minimum half hour interactive storytime session with lots of smiley faces at the end (adults' included)!!
Those who are already familiar with the previous two books in the ladybird series will know what to expect, including the dashed line for little fingers to follow the ladybird's flight path and the glittery textured highlights. You won't be disappointed and I think this book is possibly the best of the series so far.
Those who aren't familiar with the previous books needn't worry as the tale is more than able to stand on its own, but be warned, you will immediately seek the previous two afterwards.
The rhyming couplets just zip along telling the story very simply. I might query the use of the word "Pursued" rather than "Chased" when writing for such young children, especially as I'm sure it will be shared with and read to children younger than the minimum specified age range of 3-6 years. I'll change this verbally when reading to them in future.
The only tiny criticism I can think of is the lack of illustration on the page with the text "But the ladybird had a good idea And she whispered it into the monkey's ear". Perhaps it was to focus on just the ladybird whispering to the monkey but there's a lot of empty pink page which I would have loved to see filled with more of the beautiful illustrations. That particular page seems a little empty in comparison to the other packed ones. It's a very minor concern though.
I'd highly recommend this book and know it will be just as popular in my school library and in classrooms (and elsewhere) as the previous ones have been.
Thanks to Netgalley and Pan Macmillan for the advanced copy. It was a pleasure to read and review.
The illustrations are just lovely. So interesting and colourful and the first double page is packed full with simplistic but instantly recognisable London landmarks. So much so, that the name London isn't even used in the book. You can spend ages on that page alone as there's so much going on. I loved looking at all the landmarks in detail and asking children did they know what it was, had they ever been there, what do they think the Queen wears in bed, etc?! And the animal pages had us all making the animal sounds and noises. This makes a good, minimum half hour interactive storytime session with lots of smiley faces at the end (adults' included)!!
Those who are already familiar with the previous two books in the ladybird series will know what to expect, including the dashed line for little fingers to follow the ladybird's flight path and the glittery textured highlights. You won't be disappointed and I think this book is possibly the best of the series so far.
Those who aren't familiar with the previous books needn't worry as the tale is more than able to stand on its own, but be warned, you will immediately seek the previous two afterwards.
The rhyming couplets just zip along telling the story very simply. I might query the use of the word "Pursued" rather than "Chased" when writing for such young children, especially as I'm sure it will be shared with and read to children younger than the minimum specified age range of 3-6 years. I'll change this verbally when reading to them in future.
The only tiny criticism I can think of is the lack of illustration on the page with the text "But the ladybird had a good idea And she whispered it into the monkey's ear". Perhaps it was to focus on just the ladybird whispering to the monkey but there's a lot of empty pink page which I would have loved to see filled with more of the beautiful illustrations. That particular page seems a little empty in comparison to the other packed ones. It's a very minor concern though.
I'd highly recommend this book and know it will be just as popular in my school library and in classrooms (and elsewhere) as the previous ones have been.
Thanks to Netgalley and Pan Macmillan for the advanced copy. It was a pleasure to read and review.
June 28, 2017
Familiar and fun story, another Donaldson winner
It feels very familiar - the rhythm, structure, plot and characters, but is just as fun to read aloud as Donaldson's other Ladybird titles. Your little ones don't need to know the other two books to enjoy this, but it would help as both the Ladybird and the two burglars were in previous titles.
Before, the silent and watchful Ladybird has prevented Hefty Hugh and Lanky Lou from stealing, and here, when on holiday to London, she sees them again and has to prevent a nefarious plot to steal a London Zoo monkey to use in a robbery on Buckingham Palace.
The tricks she plays are bound to be enjoyed by small children, and as before, they involve teaming up with other animals (here, zoo animals). The Ladybird is clearly a clever creature, but one who does not shout about her accomplishments.
Her trip to London is a great idea - we have some great Lydia Monks spread of the city and its famous landmarks, and the Queen's corgis prove cheeky new featured characters.
The familiarity is warming and reassuring, it is an easy read for a grown up though not too hard for a newly independent reader to manage either.
The book is dedicated to the Queen's corgis, which I think is a lovely idea - and a great talking point for children and parents.
Will be a great choice for teachers talking about Donaldson's books, as well as the topic of London, and suitable for toddlers and above for bedtime reading at home.
A wonderfully colourful book for a gift and for children to delight in.
With thanks to Netgalley for the advance e-copy.
It feels very familiar - the rhythm, structure, plot and characters, but is just as fun to read aloud as Donaldson's other Ladybird titles. Your little ones don't need to know the other two books to enjoy this, but it would help as both the Ladybird and the two burglars were in previous titles.
Before, the silent and watchful Ladybird has prevented Hefty Hugh and Lanky Lou from stealing, and here, when on holiday to London, she sees them again and has to prevent a nefarious plot to steal a London Zoo monkey to use in a robbery on Buckingham Palace.
The tricks she plays are bound to be enjoyed by small children, and as before, they involve teaming up with other animals (here, zoo animals). The Ladybird is clearly a clever creature, but one who does not shout about her accomplishments.
Her trip to London is a great idea - we have some great Lydia Monks spread of the city and its famous landmarks, and the Queen's corgis prove cheeky new featured characters.
The familiarity is warming and reassuring, it is an easy read for a grown up though not too hard for a newly independent reader to manage either.
The book is dedicated to the Queen's corgis, which I think is a lovely idea - and a great talking point for children and parents.
Will be a great choice for teachers talking about Donaldson's books, as well as the topic of London, and suitable for toddlers and above for bedtime reading at home.
A wonderfully colourful book for a gift and for children to delight in.
With thanks to Netgalley for the advance e-copy.
May 8, 2017
Thanks to NetGalley and Pan MacMillan for the ARC of this book.
My 2 year old daughter loves Julia Donaldson books, the What the Ladybird Heard series is not her favourite but she does like reading them especially making the animal noises which feature. I read her the new book today, she was quite excited to see Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len again and asked to read it again straight after we’d finished but got bored a few pages into the second read.
I don’t think this is the best in the series. The action is transplanted from farm to zoo and the animal noises aren’t quite as appealing, although my daughter enjoyed the hyena laughing then crying. The initial set-up to the story is similar to the previous two books; the ladybird overhears Len and Hugh plotting to steal an animal and deploys the other animals to help her foil the criminals. I thought the plot in the second half of the book was a bit weaker, less clever, interesting and funny than the other two books and it probably won’t engage children as much as they do, but I imagine kids who like those books will like this. It’s definitely not as successful as Donaldson’s most popular other books like The Gruffalo and Stick Man.
Lydia Monks’s illustrations are colourful and appealing and my daughter enjoyed spotting the little ladybird on each page. The use of mixed media is interesting and a bit different.
My 2 year old daughter loves Julia Donaldson books, the What the Ladybird Heard series is not her favourite but she does like reading them especially making the animal noises which feature. I read her the new book today, she was quite excited to see Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len again and asked to read it again straight after we’d finished but got bored a few pages into the second read.
I don’t think this is the best in the series. The action is transplanted from farm to zoo and the animal noises aren’t quite as appealing, although my daughter enjoyed the hyena laughing then crying. The initial set-up to the story is similar to the previous two books; the ladybird overhears Len and Hugh plotting to steal an animal and deploys the other animals to help her foil the criminals. I thought the plot in the second half of the book was a bit weaker, less clever, interesting and funny than the other two books and it probably won’t engage children as much as they do, but I imagine kids who like those books will like this. It’s definitely not as successful as Donaldson’s most popular other books like The Gruffalo and Stick Man.
Lydia Monks’s illustrations are colourful and appealing and my daughter enjoyed spotting the little ladybird on each page. The use of mixed media is interesting and a bit different.
May 9, 2017
My daughter, Miss B has loved the What the Ladybird heard… books since we started reading to her. In fact, the majority of Miss B’s favourite books are by Julia Donaldson and/or Lydia Monks. In the Ladybird books, she enjoys the story, rhymes and the colourful pictures and now that she is a little bit older, Miss B also loves finding the glittery ladybird that features on every page.
What the Ladybird Heard on Holiday is the 3rd book in the series after What the Ladybird Heard and What the Ladybird Heard Next. In this instalment, the ladybird is having a well deserved rest from the farm and is visiting London. However, Lanky Len and Hefty Hugh are also visiting with a plot to kidnap a monkey from a zoo to steal the Queen’s crown!
Once again this is a funny tale from Julia Donaldson with colourful and iconic illustrations by Lydia Monks. Miss B loved listening to this book, copying the animal noises and talking about the illustrations. Miss B enjoyed it so much that once we had finished she wanted me to read it again straight away. She then also had it read to her again at bedtime by Daddy – I think it has Miss B’s approval!
We look forward to this book being released in June to add to our collection of Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks books!
What the Ladybird Heard on Holiday is the 3rd book in the series after What the Ladybird Heard and What the Ladybird Heard Next. In this instalment, the ladybird is having a well deserved rest from the farm and is visiting London. However, Lanky Len and Hefty Hugh are also visiting with a plot to kidnap a monkey from a zoo to steal the Queen’s crown!
Once again this is a funny tale from Julia Donaldson with colourful and iconic illustrations by Lydia Monks. Miss B loved listening to this book, copying the animal noises and talking about the illustrations. Miss B enjoyed it so much that once we had finished she wanted me to read it again straight away. She then also had it read to her again at bedtime by Daddy – I think it has Miss B’s approval!
We look forward to this book being released in June to add to our collection of Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks books!
December 13, 2019
Ladybug overhears two thieves, Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len, plotting to kidnap Monkey from London's Regency Zoo, and forcing him to steal the Queen's crown from her head while she's sleeping. The Ladybug arranges with the Queen's corgis to fill the bag with dog chew bones instead of the crown jewels. The Ladybug's plan succeeds and the thieves are mobbed by dogs going after the bones. The story has a nice rhythm with rhyming text and beautiful bold colorful illustrations. The problem? There is a very disorientating two page spread that opens the story with a map layout of London with major landmarks haphazardly placed. The Gherkin (should be on the North bank of the Thames) and London Eye (should be on the south) are near each other in the illustration. The Tower Bridge is located far apart from the Tower of London in the illustration, but are next to each other in reality, etc. The characters are simply drawn with warm expressions on their faces, except for the two thieves who get what they deserve. Preschool to second grade.
June 29, 2017
My three year old grandson is already an avid fan of Julia Donaldson’s books and will no doubt love this one too. Written in the author’s trademark rhyming couplets style, enhanced by delightful illustrations from Lydia Monks, we encounter the ladybird on holiday in London. While she is there, she hears Lanky Len and Hefty Hugh cooking up a dastardly plan to capture a monkey from the zoo as a means of stealing from the Queen.
Their scheme is foiled by the ladybird’s careful listening and hatching her own crafty plan with the animals at the zoo. As the action unfolds, we see how they collaborate to rescue their monkey friend. Along the way, subtle teaching helps inform a listening child about animal activities, sounds and species, and general moral principles relating to behaviour, friendship and helping others in need. A lovely, pacey book for preschoolers.
Their scheme is foiled by the ladybird’s careful listening and hatching her own crafty plan with the animals at the zoo. As the action unfolds, we see how they collaborate to rescue their monkey friend. Along the way, subtle teaching helps inform a listening child about animal activities, sounds and species, and general moral principles relating to behaviour, friendship and helping others in need. A lovely, pacey book for preschoolers.
July 6, 2019
Teachers in search of a good read aloud that will keep listeners on the edge of their sets while also providing some amusement will find it in this picture book from the always-reliable Julia Donaldson. In rhyming text, she follows Ladybug to the zoo where she thwarts two robbers in their plans to steal the queen's crown by using a monkey. There will be plenty of laughter when the two criminals get their comeuppance. Shall we say that everything goes to the dogs and that this is a doggone good ending? In this third outing, the ladybug knows when to speak and when to keep her peace. Originally published in the United Kingdom, this picture book features colorful collage illustrations to hold young readers' interest.
May 8, 2017
The book is everything you would expect from a Julia Donaldson book. It's fun for adults and children alike. We all had a fantastic, if noisy time, making the different animal noises and catching up with the ladybird's antics.
We are huge Julia Donaldson fans in this house and as usual she hits the mark with this wonderful follow up to What the Ladybird Heard and What the Ladybird Heard Next. The fabulous illustrations are by Lydia Monks and complement the book perfectly.
This book will be joining our Julia Donaldson collection as soon as it's available.
Thank you to Netgalley, Macmillan Children's Books and Julia Donaldson for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
We are huge Julia Donaldson fans in this house and as usual she hits the mark with this wonderful follow up to What the Ladybird Heard and What the Ladybird Heard Next. The fabulous illustrations are by Lydia Monks and complement the book perfectly.
This book will be joining our Julia Donaldson collection as soon as it's available.
Thank you to Netgalley, Macmillan Children's Books and Julia Donaldson for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 21, 2019
The book is set in London. I really don't like books with violence. Fear is a strong emotion. The thieves
are ugly. One fat one skinny with unshaven faces and wearing something over their eyes. They are conspiring to hurt someone in this case the Queen of England. I was glad that they showcased her Corgi dogs of which she is famous in breeding and making it very popular to have in England. I do
like to see that all the animals got together to protect her with the help of the Ladybug that just seemed to be at the right place and the right time. It does encourage one to be vigilante and to keep eyes and ears open and that working together they were able to foul the thieves plans.
are ugly. One fat one skinny with unshaven faces and wearing something over their eyes. They are conspiring to hurt someone in this case the Queen of England. I was glad that they showcased her Corgi dogs of which she is famous in breeding and making it very popular to have in England. I do
like to see that all the animals got together to protect her with the help of the Ladybug that just seemed to be at the right place and the right time. It does encourage one to be vigilante and to keep eyes and ears open and that working together they were able to foul the thieves plans.
May 8, 2017
I received a copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for a review. All views are my own.
I LOVE Julia Donaldson's books, so I was really pleased to receive an ARC of her latest Ladybird adventure. I loved the first book, so I was chuffed to see the Ladybird once more. In London, the Ladybird tries to foil a plot involving the Queen, Lanky Len and Hefty Hugh, and... a monkey?! Told as always in rhyme, the story is hilarious and complete with pretty illustrations. Storywise, I felt it fell just a tiny bit short - I think there could have been more to it and without giving the plot away, maybe some more to wrap up the story of the two bungling burglars? I don't feel there was too much of a consequence for their actions this time... either way, I really enjoyed that!
I LOVE Julia Donaldson's books, so I was really pleased to receive an ARC of her latest Ladybird adventure. I loved the first book, so I was chuffed to see the Ladybird once more. In London, the Ladybird tries to foil a plot involving the Queen, Lanky Len and Hefty Hugh, and... a monkey?! Told as always in rhyme, the story is hilarious and complete with pretty illustrations. Storywise, I felt it fell just a tiny bit short - I think there could have been more to it and without giving the plot away, maybe some more to wrap up the story of the two bungling burglars? I don't feel there was too much of a consequence for their actions this time... either way, I really enjoyed that!
May 13, 2017
Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len are back!
As a teacher, I always look forward to read Julia Donaldson's books as they are so engaging. What the Ladybird Heard on Holiday didn't let me down. After reading it myself I knew I had to get the opinions of my Year 2 class. They absolutely loved it. They particularly liked the Ladybird's cunning plan and came up with lots of ways they would have helped her. By the end of the book they were so excited and want a copy of their own!
Thanks to Netgalley and Pan Macmillian for the advanced copy.
As a teacher, I always look forward to read Julia Donaldson's books as they are so engaging. What the Ladybird Heard on Holiday didn't let me down. After reading it myself I knew I had to get the opinions of my Year 2 class. They absolutely loved it. They particularly liked the Ladybird's cunning plan and came up with lots of ways they would have helped her. By the end of the book they were so excited and want a copy of their own!
Thanks to Netgalley and Pan Macmillian for the advanced copy.
June 15, 2019
Told in rhyme, the ladybug overhears two robbers plan to kidnap the monkey from the zoo and send in to the queen's bedroom at night and steal her crown. Unfortunately for the robbers, the ladybug sounds the alarm and the animals make their own plan. The monkey goes willingly and climbs into the queen's bedroom window. With the help of her two corgis, the monkey fills the robber's sack with dog bones and returns to them outside the gates of the palace. Soon enough the robbers realize that they have been duped and the queen is none the wiser.
May 8, 2017
What The Ladybird Heard On Holiday
Julia Donaldson has done it again,
Another fine work from her magic pen.
The Ladybird returns for another rhyming adventure
And Lydia Monks is the superb illustrator.
This time, from the farm, the ladybird has gone
We find her on her holiday in the City of London.
Instead of the farm she meets animals at the zoo,
But other characters also return; in fact, there are two.
They are up to their dastardly tricks again.
Yes, it's Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len.
I loved this book, my daughter did, too
We'll read it again, more times than a few.
It holds it's own against the first two books
Rhymes and story, even the crooks,
It will keep you entertained and amused,
It''s a greatly little book that will be lovingly used.
Enough of my appalling rhyming, it' can't stand against the genius of Julia Donaldson. Suffice to say, this book is exactly as you would expect from the author.
Julia Donaldson has done it again,
Another fine work from her magic pen.
The Ladybird returns for another rhyming adventure
And Lydia Monks is the superb illustrator.
This time, from the farm, the ladybird has gone
We find her on her holiday in the City of London.
Instead of the farm she meets animals at the zoo,
But other characters also return; in fact, there are two.
They are up to their dastardly tricks again.
Yes, it's Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len.
I loved this book, my daughter did, too
We'll read it again, more times than a few.
It holds it's own against the first two books
Rhymes and story, even the crooks,
It will keep you entertained and amused,
It''s a greatly little book that will be lovingly used.
Enough of my appalling rhyming, it' can't stand against the genius of Julia Donaldson. Suffice to say, this book is exactly as you would expect from the author.
May 11, 2017
This is yet another great book from Julie Donaldson. The kids loved all the wonderful and colourful illustrations throughout this book, and true to Donaldson's style the rhyme was there as well a great tale to be told.
We haven't read the previous What the Ladybird Heard book, but I know we will for sure as my daughter just loved the little ladybird and loved looking for her on every page.
Thanks to Netgalley for the chance to review.
We haven't read the previous What the Ladybird Heard book, but I know we will for sure as my daughter just loved the little ladybird and loved looking for her on every page.
Thanks to Netgalley for the chance to review.
May 11, 2017
I am a fan of Julia Donaldson and the ladybird series is great. I read it with my 2 year old godson (bit younger than intended audience) and he loved it. The rhyming text allows anyone to be a good storyteller and the illustrations are stunning. You can spot the ladybird on each page and the other animals are colourful and eye catching. Would highly recommend to any parent or anyone buying for young children. It's a great story and there are extre things to talk about on all the pages.
May 11, 2017
This is the third instalment in the hugely popular What the Ladybird Heard... series. It follows the pattern laid out by the two previous books, but while it's enjoyable to read I think it lacks something that the first two books have. It's fun but not one I would look forward to reading repeatedly.
October 19, 2018
A bouncy, rhythmic, vibrant story about a ladybug who helps the animals she meets at the zoo to stop some robbers from stealing the Queen's riches. It will take some teamwork between them and the Queen's corgis to pull it off... but they've got quite a clever plan! I adored this little adventure, and it made me grin all the way through! Readers of any age are sure to enjoy.
August 20, 2019
This was a cute little read with fun artwork. I didn't realize this was part of a series, but thankfully they can be read in any order without feeling lost. It was a lot of fun to read out loud and has a decent amount on interaction options on each page (ex: can you find the [insert animal]?, etc.).
June 6, 2017
Beautiful and enchanting books for kids just like her previous efforts this one is delightful. Great follow up from what the ladybird heard, my children love all her books and this one was no different ❤️
June 17, 2017
My five year old grandson loves the Ladybird series and this new addition is no exception. As usual the book is beautifully illustrated by the talented Lydia Monks and would be an excellent addition to an already impressive collection.
July 2, 2019
The illustrations were bright and colorful but this book fell a little flat for me. I think kids will enjoy making the different zoo animal noises and if they are familiar with the royal family, they might really enjoy this book. But if not, it is a book that will be easily forgotten.
September 13, 2019
"'Hooray!' said the camel with the great big hump. The hyena laughed and the hummingbird whirred, But the ladybug never said a word."
This is another silly, fun read from Donaldson. My kids still like _Room on the Broom_ and _Tabby McTat_ better, but this was fun to throw in the mix.
This is another silly, fun read from Donaldson. My kids still like _Room on the Broom_ and _Tabby McTat_ better, but this was fun to throw in the mix.
January 17, 2020
My favorite ladybug is back to save the day. Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len have another scheme, this time with the Queen's crown in mind. Alas, our ladybug won't let them get away with it. Throw in some dogs, elephants and general zoo chaos and here is another winner.
June 28, 2020
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