The Ballad of Cactus Joe

Reviews / Votes

**Longlisted for the KPMG Children's Books Ireland Awards** **Winner of the 35th West Book Awards in the Picture Book Category** "The plot leaves plenty of room for discussion about behavior and communication for even the prickliest child". * Becca Worthington, Booklist * "A fun rhyming story that begs you to do the voices (my Cactus Joe got very loud), with fantastic illustrations - the nighttime desert scenes are particularly gorgeous." * Erika McGann, author of Chasing the Shy Town * "Children will love the repetition and hilarity in this fun new picture book." * Scottish BookTrust * "This rhyming tale of adapting to different circumstances and being open hearted is, with its surprise ending, huge fun. Clive McFarland's characterisation of the cactus is wonderful!" * Jill Bennett, Red Reading Hub * "Murray has crafted a funny rhyming tale that adds new birds to Cactus Joe's branches bit by bit... McFarland makes the pages bright and colourful while remaining true to the story's desert setting... This is a beautiful picturebook with heart and humour." * Conor Bredin, Children's Books Ireland * "A slightly cranky cactus strikes a deal with a woodpecker with unforeseeable consequences in this adorable picture book that carries a heartwarming message about adapting to new circumstances." * Waterstones * "This funny picture book has it all: a singing, grumpy cactus; a variety of birds; and a surprise at the end... Clive McFarland's pictures contain clever characterisation and pops of bright orange to really engage the child. Never has a cactus had so much expression." * BookTrust *