Reviewed by
Mary
Banjo’s latest adventure has taken him from the Pacific Islands all the way to Norway! It seems rather appropriate to visit a snowy part of the world at this time of year.
The letter uses a fun anecdotal style, with stories about other animals Banjo meets, as well as accounts of his various adventures. But as well as these, there is actual information about the places he is visiting, the geography, food, language, so children pick up interesting details without even they are learning!
Even the writing paper has lovely designs, with different little pictures for each destination.
Included in the letter are questions, prompts, and suggestions for writing and drawing when the child replies.
And children do reply! Penpals go back and forth, and included with Banjo’s letter is a fun sheet of writing paper and special ‘cat mail’ envelope for the child’s letter back to Banjo.
As this is posted under the sofa, to be picked up my a neighborhood cat, parents can actually nab them at the appropriate moment and have these letters a lovely keepsakes of their child’s imagination.
Parents also have the opportunity to add their own PS to each letter (from Banjo of course) which gives an even more personal touch. It’s also a great was for parents to bring a child’s attention to things – such as keeping their room tidy – that they might take rather better from their cat friend than their actual parents! And of course Banjo can also congratulate them on various events in their lives.
In addition to the letter and reply paper, you have a sheet of personalised stickers, includin ‘cat mail’ stamps, and a little colouring sheet. The colouring pictures are all related to events described in the letter. Oh, and there’s a special sticker to add to your map of the world poster that comes with the first letter, so you can follow Banjo’s travels.
By Evelyn 
