An engaging book that's good for a giggle.
Feature image credit: Allen & Unwin
Holding The Sheep That Stole the Farmer’s Hat in my hands, the first thing that stands out is how approachable it feels. The soft cover has a gentle flexibility that makes it easy to handle without feeling fragile, and the size is well-judged for younger readers. It sits comfortably in small hands, inviting children to open it themselves and turn the pages without assistance, which is always a strong indicator of a book designed with its audience in mind.
Upon opening it, the illustrations immediately take over, and rightly so. The sheep at the centre of the story is not rendered in the more familiar stylised farmyard look often seen elsewhere. Instead, Carla Martell presents a soft, fluffy, almost cotton ball-like character, rounded and tactile in appearance, that feels as though it could be lifted straight off the page and cuddled. That visual softness is key. It draws the reader in emotionally before the narrative has even properly begun, creating an instant connection that younger children, in particular, respond to instinctively.
The colour palette is particularly effective. There is a thoughtful blend of both bright, playful tones and softer, more subtle hues, creating contrast without overwhelming the eye. The use of coloured backgrounds across different spreads helps maintain engagement, shifting the mood and guiding attention while keeping the visual experience fresh. The farmer’s hat becomes a focal point, consistently visible and easy to track, allowing young readers to follow the narrative visually even before they fully grasp the text. This balance between bold and gentle colour choices demonstrates a clear understanding of how children engage with imagery.
The text itself is simple and consistent, which suits the target age group. The font is clean and easy to recognise, though it does feel as though it could be slightly larger to better support beginner readers who are still developing confidence. That said, the placement of the text is thoughtful. It sits comfortably within each spread, guiding the eye naturally and never competing with the illustrations. The words and images work together rather than separately, strengthening the overall reading experience.
As the pages turn, the humour builds in a way that encourages participation. Once the sheep steals the hat, there is an immediate sense of anticipation. Young readers quickly understand the pattern and begin to predict what might happen next. This repetition, paired with variation, gives the story its rhythm and makes it particularly effective as a read-aloud. Children are not just listening; they are actively engaging, responding, and often getting ahead of the narrative with delight.
There is also a pleasing balance in the layout. The pages are not overcrowded, allowing each moment to land clearly. This is especially important for younger audiences who benefit from visual clarity and space. Each spread feels deliberate, with enough detail to hold interest without becoming overwhelming.
From a practical perspective, the book is well-suited to repeated use. The soft cover keeps it lightweight and portable, easy to carry between home and school, or a quiet reading corner. It feels like a book that will be picked up often, not just for the story itself, but for the comfort of its familiarity.
For a purchaser, this is a book that understands its audience. It combines a simple, engaging narrative with illustrations that do much of the emotional work. The soft, inviting character design, the clear visual storytelling, and the accessible text all contribute to a reading experience that supports both enjoyment and early literacy development.
In hand, it feels like a book that will quickly become a favourite, one that invites laughter, participation, and repeated reading, with a final line that not only delivers a satisfying giggle but naturally opens the door to further conversation and curiosity beyond the last page.
Reviewed by Leanne Caune
The views expressed in this review belong to the author and not Glam Adelaide, its affiliates, or employees.
Distributed by: Allen and Unwin
Released: March 2026
RRP: $17.99
