Whatever Next!

What do our readers think of Whatever Next!? (Generated from the text of reviews of the book)

Children enjoy Baby Bear’s funny homemade rocket, colourful pictures and imaginative trip to the moon. They also like joining in with the adventure and using the story for pretend play.

What does the Pageticker team say about Whatever Next!?

We love the warmth, humour and sheer imaginative freedom of this classic picture book. Baby Bear’s homemade rocket, colander helmet and moonlit picnic make a delightful story for sharing aloud, while the familiar bath-time setting gives young children an easy way into the adventure. It is especially well suited to children who enjoy make-believe, though some may need reassurance that the moon journey is part of Baby Bear’s imaginative play.

Genres

What is Whatever Next! about?

Baby Bear, eager for adventure before bath time, transforms a cardboard box into a rocket and dons a colander as a space helmet. With his new friend, Owl, he embarks on a thrilling journey to the moon, where they enjoy a delightful picnic. This imaginative tale celebrates the boundless creativity of childhood.

About the author

Jill Murphy was a much-loved British author and illustrator, best known for creating ‘The Worst Witch’ series and ‘The Large Family’ picture books. Her stories are full of warmth, humour, and unforgettable characters. Jill loved animals and often included them in her books, making her stories extra special for readers of all ages.

Discussion ideas around Whatever Next!

Imagination: How does Baby Bear turn ordinary household objects into things for his adventure, and what could you transform into a rocket or space helmet?

Adventure: What makes Baby Bear’s journey exciting, and which part of his trip would you most like to join?

Friendship: How does meeting Owl change Baby Bear’s adventure, and what makes someone a good friend on a journey?

Home and bedtime: Why do you think Baby Bear wants an adventure before his bath, and how do you feel when it is time to stop playing?

Make-believe and real life: What clues suggest that Baby Bear may be pretending, and what makes the story leave room for us to imagine that the journey really happens?