No. 5 Bubblgum Street

Enter the charming world of No. 5 Bubblegum Street, a bustling apartment building home to an array of quirky animal residents. From Mouse the rapper, frantically searching for his hat, to the houseplant-obsessed Panther and the musical Spiders, every character brings vibrant energy to this delightful story. I particularly enjoyed spending time in Panther’s apartment, where a love for potted plants flourishes.

The narrative unfolds at a leisurely pace, allowing young readers to immerse themselves in the intricacies of each household. Gosia Herba’s illustrations are a visual delight, bursting with bright, bold colours and intricate details that invite repeated exploration. Each character and their environment are brought to life with a distinct colour palette, enhancing the individuality of their stories.

After all the characters have been introduced, we find them on the rooftop terrace, transformed into a lively party scene where all the neighbours gather to share their talents and passions. This culmination underscores themes of community, acceptance, and the beauty of diversity. The colourful and dynamic illustrations capture the essence of this celebration, making each page a visual delight.

Pa and Herba, along with Gilroy’s translation, encourage children to appreciate the richness of differences and the joy of coming together. This picture book offers repeated readings that can be shared and enjoyed together, with children always spotting details that adults might miss.