Reading break – special for children
Fostering a love of books from a very young age is about much more than just learning to read. It’s about sparking curiosity, enriching vocabulary, developing the imagination and giving children the tools to better understand the world. Two fun little books should fulfil this role, provided you take the time to read them with your children.
Léo and the Secret of Submarines
What if a simple bath became the starting point for a great adventure beneath the ocean? With *Léo and the Secret of Submarines*, released on 15 August, Océane Laborde invites young readers to discover the history of these fascinating machines whilst having fun. Léo is five years old and loves playing with his little boats. One evening, a question pops into his head: how can a boat dive under the water? To answer it, his Grandad Simon, a former sailor, takes him on a journey through time and the depths of the sea. From the first barrel-like vessel to electric submarines, as he turns the pages the young boy discovers not only astonishing inventions, but also a whole world populated by extraordinary fish, undersea volcanoes and the mysterious depths of the ocean. Illustrated and inspired by real events, this picture book blends adventure and scientific discovery with the aim of helping children learn without even realising it. It is particularly aimed at curious little ones who ask a thousand questions and love to understand the world around them. Suitable for children aged 4 and over when read with an adult, and for all young readers to read independently, *Léo and the Secret of the Submarines* has 27 pages and is aimed at children aged 3 to 10. Above all, it is the first instalment in a series dedicated to great inventions and discoveries. The book, in French, is available on Amazon (€11.20).

The Little Adventurer of Pinel Islet
Published on 12 August, the booklet ‘The Little Adventurer of Pinel Islet’ invites children to discover the islet’s treasures whilst raising their awareness of environmental protection. To accompany them on this exploration, a little character, Pinou the tortoise, acts as their guide. It’s a fun way to learn about the island’s flora and fauna and the right things to do, with the aim of inspiring young children to enjoy exploring the natural world. Armed with their map, children can explore the islet and, at the same time, help keep the area clean by picking up any litter they find along the way using small litter pickers (which are provided). Published by the Conservatoire du littoral in partnership with the Association des exploitants de Pinel (AEP), this educational leaflet is free and bilingual (French and English). It is available exclusively on Pinel Islet.
