We purchased Alain Gree's 'Nature' book for my daughter recently. Being fans of the French author and illustrator's iconic style which takes us back to our very own childhood story books, these books attracted us because they offer an educational slant and a means to widen vocabulary for children aged 2-4 years in a fun and colourful way that kids (and adults!) will love. And it seems that his appeal is universal. Alain Gree has published over 300 children's books in his lifetime, most of them in the 60s and 70s, which have since been translated all over the world into over 20 different languages. He has a passion for sailing - even crossing the Atlantic twice! - and many of his children's stories and illustrations were inspired and created during these round-the-world trips. On to the books themselves, 'Alphabet' takes its reader from A through to Z using colourful illustrations of easily recognisable objects, animals, birds, insects, fruit and vegetables beginning with that letter: 'Nature' teaches little ones all about different environments and encourages involvement and interaction through structured chapters and tasks. Beginning with 'On the farm' (which challenges the reader to spot the animals, spot the fruit and vegetables, and shows him/her exactly which animals and crops produce the food that they eat), right through to 'At the seaside' (illustrating birds, fish in the sea, rockpool inhabitants and giant whales), it offers a lovely little guide to the great outdoors - and a fabulous gift for little ones this summertime. Both books come as hardbacks, £9.99 each, with reversible, illustrated removable covers that can also be pinned up as posters to decorate your child's wall. There are other books available in the series, too. You can get them online from one of London's (and Bobby Rabbit's) best-loved toy shops, Hop Toy Shop. And we're very excited to be partnering with Hop right now to offer you an amazing 10% off all purchases until 5th August. Simply visit our Special Deals section for more details and the code to use at checkout. So why not hop over and have a look - from toys, to home decoration, to party, to books, it's the perfect place for gorgeous little gifts this summer. And if you're in London, why not visit their fab little shop on Chatsworth Road.