ISBN: 9781925266771

Publisher: Allen & Unwin

Imprint: A & U Children

 September 2016

$24.99

Ben venuto caro Signore Pollo! Mi sei mancato!

Everyone’s favourite fowl, renowned for his international travel, is back to give us true insight into another marvellous metropolis. Mr Chicken has graced both Paris and London and shown us all their special sights and highlights. Now it’s the turn of the Eternal City, Roma.

Of course with an Italian in residence (though he is Milanese!) this one has special resonance for us and we have been waiting patiently (no, that’s not true – we’ve been waiting impatiently!)

I’m totally envious as Italy has always been one of my dream destinations (and never likely to get there sadly), however I can at least enjoy it vicariously through Mr Chicken’s Roman holiday.  From the Vatican City (surprised that Mr Chicken didn’t make it the balcony with HH) to the Trevi Fountain our avian friend explores the city with his friend Federica aboard her trusty Vespa. Along the way he relishes not only the spectacular sights but the gastronomic delights – hmmmm, pasta galore, gelati (but no canoli – my favourite of all).

Apart from the obvious humour these books are such a super way to introduce young humans to other cities and cultures. My Preppies have had great fun the last couple of weeks after we shared the previous two and I asked them to predict the cover of the new book for their Book Week competition. It led to some serious discussion about what they already knew about Italy (pizza and pasta hahaha!) and some sharing of simple information books to help them picture Mr Chicken’s arrival.

There is no need to give this book the big hype – Leigh Hobbs’ work needs absolutely no ‘hard sell’. I know everyone will be rushing to get this into their collection – however, my most sincere ‘highly recommended’ comes with this review.

Divertiti con quasta storia!