In this picture book classic, a delightful surprise colourfully unfolds when a little girl called Handa puts seven delicious fruits in a basket to take to her friend. A modern classic named one of the best culturally diverse picture books in the UK, this is the story of Handa, who's part of the Luo tribe in south-west Kenya. Handa decides to take seven pieces of delicious fruit to her friend, Akeyo, who lives in the neighbouring village. But as Handa wonders, I wonder what fruit Akeyo will like best?, a series of sneaky animals steal something from Handa's basket, which she's carrying on her head... When Handa reaches Akeyo, will she have anything left to offer her friend? Richly-illustrated, brimming with luscious fruit and cheeky wild animals, this mouth-watering story is for the youngest of readers. In the best pantomime spirit, children will long to tell Handa what's happening right behind her!
Rich, hot colours and fluid brush-strokes zap each scene into life... - The Independent on Sunday
...so luscious it seems almost edible... - The Observer
With beautifully drawn animals and rich colours immaculately displayed on every page, this book is a brilliant introduction for toddlers and children under five years. - Handa's Surprise featured as one of Pride Magazine's 'best books' for children.
Featured/recommended - Yellow Brick Road
“Young readers will enjoy the rich, brightly-coloured illustrations, as well as the gentle humour of a story about sharing and friendship.” - Amnesty.org.uk
Lushly and colourfully illustrated, it’s no wonder this is a favourite of so many. - Huffington Post
Author
About Eileen Browne
Eileen Browne’s titles include "Handa's Surprise", which was shortlisted for the 1995 Sheffield Children's Book Award, "Handa's Hen" and "Tick Tock". Eileen was born and brought up in Birmingham and lived in London for over twenty years before moving to Wiltshire where she now lives. She worked as a school teacher and a youth worker before becoming an author and illustrator. Her first book was published in 1977. Eileen believes "Certain groups of people are not well represented in books. For example, females only feature as main characters in around 30% of children's books. Because of this, I give them priority. "Where's That Bus?" was one of the first animal picture books with all female characters." Eileen has written books with Kit Wright and Floella Benjamin.