Bumbletum

by Steve Smallman

When a new toy, Bumbletum, arrives in the bedroom, the other toys help him figure out what he can do that makes him special, in a charming story about self-discovery.

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens, Friendship

32 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2006

About the author

Steve Smallman lives in Staffordshire with his wife, two dogs and two cats. He has four children and a grandchild. Steve has been illustrating children’s books for almost 30 years and writing his own stories for slightly less. He also teaches illustration workshops in schools, including mural-painting. Steve is the author of Smelly Peter the Great Pea Eater (Winner of the Sheffield Children's Book Award 2009) and The Lamb Who Came for Dinner (Shortlisted for the Red House Children's Book Award and read by Meatloaf on CITV's Bookaboo). When he’s not working, Steve enjoys films, television, gardening and walking in the countryside.

Steve Smallman on Steve Smallman:

I started working as an illustrator when I was in my final year at Art College and now, over 28 years later I still haven't got a proper job! I've illustrated literally hundreds of books, predominantly in educational publishing. A few years ago I was main illustrator for Longman's 'Story Street' reading scheme, illustrating 79 titles and writing 5.

I've worked in children's television, specifically in character development and most notably in the 'Raggy Doll' series in the mid to late 1980's. I have also done a certain amount of licensed work, illustrating characters such as Postman Pat, Bill and Ben and Sesame Street.

I've been described as an 'Animal Artist', not I hasten to add because I'm wild and hairy but because I love to draw animals and especially like to give them human characteristics.

I've been writing children's books for about 6 years and have already had several picture books published with more in development.

I've got 4 great children and although they're all adults now, my memories of them growing up inspire and inform my writing.

Reviews

[Tatiana Gomes · Rating 2 out of 5]

Muito leve, quase pré-escolar. Trabalha a dimensão dos brinquedos e a função de cada um. Descobrir para que serve. Pode ser utilizado numa sessão de mediação de leitura nesse sentido, juntamente com outros livros.

[Heydi Smith · Rating 2 out of 5]

Good for the very young.

[Lindsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Literally the most adorable thing in Jojo's latest library haul so far. An excellent reminder of how valuable it is to be good at giving love.

[Shemona · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bumbletum is a good book for introducing the concept of respect, diversity and noting that everybody is different as we all have different roles. Bumbletum is the new toy in town. He is not a scary lion or a sweet doll...so what is his role? As he and the other toys try to figure this out, Millie the mouse falls and is badly hurt. However, all she needs is a nice, big cuddle which is where Bumbletum comes in. He is ideal for this.

This is story has great images to support the delightful text which will keep the children engaged. This story is ideal for KS1 during circle time, or when a new pupil arrives in class in order to make everyone feel comfortable.

[Angie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cute, cute, cute!!

[Paula · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute story with some repetition.
When a new toy arrives in the bedroom, the others help him figure out what he can do that makes him special.