Ella Moves House

Hassall’s charming story will appeal to those who have just started reading, and is also ideal for reading together. It concerns a little girl, Ella, who lives in a flat with her mother, which is just big enough for them both. The introduction of Joe, mum’s new boyfriend, fills Ella with resentment. His negative impact on her life is seen by the intrusion of his belongings into her personal space, culminating in the necessity of an unwelcome house move. The contrast between Ella’s feelings and Joe’s behaviour to her is charmingly rendered by Ewen in marvellous illustrations perfectly capturing the essence of the text. Joe is shown playing with Ella in the park, splashing in muddy puddles with her, swinging her around, catching falling leaves with her, whilst Ella remains steadfastly unimpressed.