Summer Story
By Jill Barklem
The Story
Two mice, Poppy Eyebright and Dusty Dogwood, fall in love during a scorching summer along Brambly Hedge and plan a wedding — one with a setting far more unusual than anyone expects.
Why It's Special
For families who love slow, cozy stories with tiny worlds tucked inside hedgerows, this is the kind of book that turns down the pace and turns up the wonder.
- Big idea: Love and celebration find their own perfect moment, even when plans take an unexpected turn.
- Vibes: Warm, gentle, and full of hedgerow charm — a lazy summer afternoon in book form.
Perfect For Kids Who
- enjoy cozy animal communities and tiny detailed worlds
- like to pore over intricate illustrations for small details
- are curious about weddings and celebrations
- respond well to gentle, unhurried storytelling
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story & problem-solving: What do you think made Poppy and Dusty's wedding day so unusual?
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think Poppy and Dusty felt spending so much time together by the stream?
- Real-life connection: Have you ever been to a wedding or celebration? What was it like?
- Imagination: If you could pick any place to have a party, where would you choose?
- Observation: Can you find Poppy hiding in the mossy shadows of the mill wheel in the pictures?
