Julia Donaldson The Scarecrow's Wedding

Betty O'Barley and Harry O'Hay are planning the wedding of their dreams, but collecting everything they need proves more complicated than expected. As Harry's journey takes him away, another scarecrow threatens the happiness waiting at home. Julia Donaldson's lively rhyme and Axel Scheffler's expressive pictures give the countryside romance humour and suspense, creating a warm story about devotion, planning and the difference between grand promises and dependable love.

Age suitability and learning: Preschool (3-5), Primary (6-8). Rhythm and repeated language help younger listeners join in, while primary readers can explore the words and pictures more closely. Reading aloud supports listening, sound awareness and expressive speech; following the story encourages recall and talking about what happens next.

Available at QT Toys in Battersea.