Little Scarlet is a leaping, twirling, pirouetting child whose dog Jazzy Jo-Jo taps his claws on the floor to provide the rhythm for her antics.

In a suitably red outfit replete with hair-bow and shoes, Scarlet loves to perform in daily life for her mum and dad. 

But she does wonder what it would be like to dance on a real stage – to shine like a star! So, she asks her parents about that. 

And they in turn, deliver her to a concert where she performs in front of the bright lights to a large audience.

Scarlett, Starlet is captivating with its palette of primary colours and bright, engaging characters. The words and images are each compelling in an utterly disarming way. For me though, it’s the quiet touches that really resonate through this picture book. 

Things like finding myself seeking out the child with a rainbow leotard and cloud wig (complete with raindrops falling around the face) on page after page. Or giggling at the pineapple heads, or just simply reveling in the glorious diversity of all the performer’s costumes and presentations. There is so much in the illustrations to pore over and to love.

This is a magical, joy-filled story that celebrates childhood creativity and family, in many of the most wonderful ways.

Title: Scarlett, Starlet
Author/Illustrator: Emma Quay
Publisher: HarperCollins, $14.99
Publication Date: 2015
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9780733335136
For ages: 3+
Type: Picture Book