Barnardos childrens’ charity has produced a second edition of its popular guide to buying books for babies and children under five years of age. The guide is sponsored by Cow & Gate and the object of the book is to make reading a fun and educational experience for children and their parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles etc. All of the books listed in the guide will also be available in public libraries around the country.

This colourful guide is available free from Barnardos National Children’s Resource Centres throughout Ireland and Cow & Gate’s freephone careline (1800 570 570). It is also available to download from www.barnardos.ie and www.cowandgate.ie and is a very valuable resource for families.

Reference copies of the guide are available in local libraries around the country to assist parents and carers in choosing books. This year’s guide includes some reviews by well known Irish people such as former Taoiseach Albert Reynolds, Mairead McGuinness, MEP for Ireland East, author Cathy Kelly, television presenters Mary Kingston and Sheana Keane along with broadcaster and journalist Matt Cooper.