My Big Brother JJ by Odette Elliott

September 2009, Tamarind Books
23 pages
Review copy

Children's

Clouds: 3/5
Tissues: 1/5
Pencils: 5/5
Smiles: 5/5
Yunaleska's recommended rating: ♥♥♥♥♥

The reason I chose My Big Brother JJ for reading was for its true to life appeal. When you're little, the holidays should be exciting times. Jasmine, is excited about half term, as is her older brother JJ. Unfortunately their mother has to work during the week, so it's up to JJ to entertain his sister.

This news would be a blow for a lot of teenagers - having to babysit all week isn't initially anyone's idea of fun. But this story highlights how JJ looks after Jasmine during that week. He makes sure that they are active most days, taking part in fun activities which they will both like. He still gets to play sport - he plays it with Jasmine.

Since both children care for their mother a lot, they want to do something special for her at the end of the week. I loved the thought bubbles with images of what could go wrong if they baked a cake, or made jam. The idea the end up going with is highly creative and makes the garden look more vibrant.

I laughed really hard when Jasmine, in an effort to be helpful causes a bit of disruption for JJ. JJ's reaction of swearing is explained well: (no page numbers) JJ said some horrid, horrid words!

Their mother is a little annoyed when she comes home to find them squabbling, but her anger blows away when she sees the effort they put in. Jasmine's mistake is even seen as a highlight of the finished product.

I feel this is a good way for explaining how even if parents have to work during holidays, fun can still be had by the children. Sure, plans may have to be adapted for the younger sibling, but everyone can still have fun and enjoy the time off school.

Like this? Try The Silence Seeker by Ben Morley