Beti and the Little Round House

This is a unique and charming little tale which young readers embarking on their first adventures into chapter books might well enjoy with a little support. Beti lives alongside her brother Jac, her Mum and Tad in the ‘little round house’ the title centres on. Indeed, this house is actually central to the author too, having built such a house themselves on arrival in Wales. Little details like these, and the absorbing illustrations throughout help to draw the reader fully into the world of Beti and the Little Round House. 

Though very simple in concept, this is actually where much of the charm in this story lies. This gentle tale tells of the family from the ‘round house’ as they experience every day adventures in their woodland setting. There is much excitement and laughter generated by the addition of Naughty the goat and lots of references to the beauty of the landscape – whether this is the rushing waterfall or berries forming on the hawthorn.

In amongst this almost magical land, time passes – perhaps at a different pace than for some of us, and perhaps this is another reason for the title’s appeal. Yet for young readers, this sense that time is passing is immediately relatable – the seasons change for them too, and they can compare Beti’s experiences of each season as the chapters of the book progress, perhaps thinking about how they spend time in each season. 

Very quietly, this book also speaks powerfully of community, of inclusivity, and of the values we might hope young readers of such books are starting to consider. Beti needs bravery in Winter and patience in Spring, and indeed, many more values along the way. Such a quiet and gentle text could be just the right spotlight through which to begin important conversations with children – either at home or at school, and at every turn such significant concepts are supported by immersive and escape-offering illustrations.