Two little monkeys by Mem Fox

Ill. By Jill Barton. Penguin/Viking, 2012. ISBN 9780670076529.
(Age: 2-6) Highly recommended. Two little monkeys, Cheeky and Chee are playing near a tree when along comes something prowling. Up they jump, climbing to the highest branch. What are they hiding from?
The very talented Mem Fox has once again put her formidable talent to good use in this engaging story of two little monkeys who are frightened by something prowling nearby. Every word has been carefully selected and reads out loud perfectly and will be easy for the very young to remember and repeat along with the adult reading it aloud. It would also be perfect for a young child to use to start learning how to read - a wonderful story, repetition, easy to remember and lots of fun.
The illustrations by Jill Barton highlight the characters of the two little monkeys, with their delightful facial expressions and complement the text, helping the young reader to work out what is happening. The leopard that is prowling nearby is fierce, but not enough enough to frighten young children and the countryside, awash in pale yellows and blues bring the monkeys' world to life.
As always Mem Fox has created a story that is sure to become a firm favourite with young children who will love the love and repetition of the story, the characters of the cheeky little monkeys and the gorgeous illustrations. It is a keeper for me and an ideal present for grandparents and new parents to buy for young children.
Pat Pledger