Out for the Count; Anne Fine, illustrated by Vicki Gausden

Hugo wants a gerbil but his dad is dead set against the idea. His dad thinks that it is cruel to keep in animal in a cage and to leave the animal alone for hours at a time. So, Hugo’s dad sets him a challenge. Experience life like a gerbil…spend seven hours in his bedroom, all alone and with only three toys and a small plate of food to keep him company. Easy thinks Hugo. But been stuck in a room alone is a lot more difficult than Hugo had imagined and it isn’t long before boredom sets in and he goes stir-crazy.

Anne Fine is a brilliant writer of children’s books and Out for the Count is a witty and clever book that is a touching look at the impatience of a child. Filled with messages on the beauty of imagination and the importance of empathy and seeing the bigger picture.

This entertaining little chapter book is funny and thought-provoking and is the perfect fit for smaller hands. The chapters are short, there are plenty of colourful illustrations and there are delightful extras in the form of a complete the drawing (inside the front cover) and a spot the difference (inside the back cover).

Recommended for 6+.