Oh No, George! by Chris Haughton (Walker Books)

"Oh No, George!" is one of those books we've been stalking for ages - umming and ahhing over whether to pick it up. It popped up in our library haul this week so we couldn't possibly resist Chris Haughton's fabulous bold illustrations and fun story.

George is a dog. George isn't a particularly well behaved dog but bless him, he really does try. When his owner Harris pops out for the day, George is determined to be on his best behaviour.

But..."OH NO, GEORGE!" - Charlotte loved shouting out every time George misbehaves. Snaffling a sneaky cake, digging up the garden - and worst of all, emptying the bin all over the floor and chasing poor cat around.

Harris is very understanding when he comes home to find complete mayhem has ensued in his absence. But George feels horribly guilty, and summons all his will power when out walking with Harris later on...

Does George manage to behave?

The visual appeal of the book and the brilliant join-in story make this an absolute classic. I thought it might be too young for Charlotte but she enthusiastically joined in and couldn't wait to find out what mischief George would get up to next as the story progressed.

Well deserving of a place on anyone's bookshelf, in fact rank this alongside other truly essential children's books like The Very Hungry Caterpillar, The Gruffalo and We're going on a Bear Hunt.

Charlotte's best bit: Charlotte cannot blame George for his deep love of chocolate cake!

Daddy's Favourite bit: Love the build up and anticipation, and the repetition which is so enthusiastically received by children. Definitely one to put on our 'read aloud' pile if anyone invites us for readings this year. Fabulous!