Ella and the Sleepover Safari – Cassy Polimeni. Hykie Breeze.

UWAP

March 2025

ISBN: 9781760803018

RRP: $15.99

How utterly apt that it happens I can be writing this review today on World Frog Day! Lucky it hopped into my mail just in time. So many of you will know the sensational series start of the first Ella book, when we met her family, friends and frogs as she adjusted to a whole new house, school and neighbourhood.

Her frog orchestra happily ensconced in their new pond was a big hit with many young readers, especially those tackling lengthier chapter books as independent readers. Now Cassy Polimeni has taken us further into Ella’s circle with more wildlife action and definitely more friendship finessing.

It’s Ella’s birthday and her favourite aunt has a splendid idea – a sleepover at the zoo. Now that’s a birthday treat any young naturalist would love! Ella’s mum organises for both Ella’s new friend, Mai (who helped her with the frog pond) and her bestie from the previous neighbourhood and school, Viv, to sleep over with Ella. A tent, bunk beds, guided tours, feeding animals -it’s all happening!

But we all know that three can be a difficult number – especially when one friend feels threatened by the other. The trio gets off to a rocky start, with Ella the devon-in-the-sandwich, but an unplanned night time adventure turns the whole thing around and suddenly Ella’s two friends realise they have more in common than not and it all gels happily. It’s another really feel-good story with Hykie Breeze’s so-expressive illustrations enhancing the vibe of the story [I especially love the meerkats – one having a good old rant at the other, who looks quite bemused 😂].

And that cover art is even more engaging than the first IMO. Cassy is definitely proving that she has a real knack for authentic characterisation and voice, and this would be an excellent read-aloud (as would the first) to underline those friendship niggles that can arise, and need to be defused with tact. And, along the way, kiddos have all the fun of the animals – always a winner! Of course, that means it’s also a super addition to an unit of inquiry you may be planning on the natural world or animals.

I’m aware of many who have shared that their child has absolutely loved these, and it is small wonder. I’d certainly be suggesting multiple copies because they will enjoy a growing popularity as the word-of-mouth hits the playground (or library floor as the case may be). Once again, I’m delighted to give this a 5 🐸🐸🐸🐸🐸 rating – so, go on! hop to it and get yourself some on your lilypad – or shelf – whatever!