The Gruffalo
July 8, 2010
Written by Julia Donaldson and wonderfully illustrated by Axel Sceffler The Gruffalo was voted as the UK’s favourite children’s bedtime story by BBC Radio 2 listeners in 2009.
First published in 1999 the book has now sold over ten million copies and is a contemporary classic. Written in rhyming couplets with an engaging rhythm, the book tells the story of a clever mouse who is foraging in the woods for a tasty nut to eat. On his journey he meets variously an owl, a snake and a fox, each of which think the mouse will make an extremely delicious snack.
To evade their clutches the cunning mouse makes up a story about a terrifying creature called a Gruffalo who happens to enjoy eating foxes, snakes and owls! At the mention of this hideous beast the other animals soon flee and leave the mouse to continue his search.
However, imagine the mouse’s horror when he finally encounters a Gruffalo! Then the mouse………… Well that would be telling wouldn’t it?
Based on a traditional Chinese folk tale this book is aimed firmly at the 3-7 year group and comes thoroughly recommended.
Trunki
March 3, 2010
There’s a really nice story behind the invention of this popular kids suitcase which is now instantly recognisable and on sale in some of our biggest department stores.
After initially being turned down and give short shrift on Dragons Den for his invention Rob Law’s innoative and useful design has gone on to be a huge commercial success. To say they were unkind would be an understatement describing Trunki as ‘worthless’ and also ironically being told by the head of a holiday firm that there was ‘no market for the case’. How wrong can you be?
This wheeled suitcase doubles up as a ride on toy and is aimed at the 3 to 6 year old age group so that they can take their own luggage on holiday and have something to sit on in airport queues. Trunkis come in several different designs each brightly coloured and beautifully designed. Choose from Gruffalo, Harley, Tipu, Terrance and Trixie. Also available are a wide range of Trunki extras such as wrist purses, pencil cases, wash bags, holsters, saddle bags and tote bags.
Another great idea are Yondis – a unique travel pillow that fits snugly behind the head so your toddler can nap peacefully and be comfortable. These are available in two sizes 1 to 4 years and 4 to 8 years and are machine washable.
Last but not least and launching this year are BoostApaks. The law requires children under 12 years old or 135cm in height to use a booster seat. This excellent idea is an ideal solution not only is it a useful hand luggage approved rucksack it doubles as a booster seat.
So the inventor of Trunki has proved the Dragons wrong and how much more satisfying is it to turn down a Dragon as Trunki’s inventor did when one offered an investment in the company of £100,000. He said no thank you!