I was reminded the other day how much my children loved Shirley Hughes’ books when they were little. We all retain a great affection for Alfie and her other characters. 2017 was the 40th anniversary of the publication of her well-known picture book, Dogger, for which a special edition of the book was published. Alongside Dogger on our bookshelves is a well-thumbed copy of Out and About which is a delightful poetical journey through the changing seasons enhanced by Shirley Hughes’ evocative and timeless illustrations. We read it countless times until we knew much of it by heart. It remains a lovely first poetry book for the very young.