When I started using Instagram, one of the very first people I followed was the happy-go-lucky, always smiling Melbourne based toy designer Maria of Mr Sloth!
In her tiny little squares of happiness that filter through my feed, I have always admired Maria’s sunny disposition and kind, cheerful nature, not to mention her incredibly creative talent.
By day, Melbourne based Maria Raciti is a senior toy designer (who graduated with honors after completing her bachelor of Industrial Design). By night she is her own creative soul, the maker of Mr Sloth, the creator of funky jewelry, the owner of AMAZING hair! But, this little go-getter doesn’t stop there, as Maria adds children’s book author and illustrator to that list of already impressive credentials!
Upon receiving Maria’s beautifully written story in the mail, my litle book worm Indi was over the moon and transfixed by the bright, colourful illustrations.
‘The Many Shirts of Mr. Sloth’ is a fun little story about the many shirts Mr.Sloth could wear on his birthday.
Written and illustrated by Maria herself, the playful text makes “The Many Shirts of Mr Sloth” perfect for shared reading experiences snuggled with your little ones.
The book is also simple enough for young readers to read independently and the colourful illustrations help keep those curious little minds engaged.
I for one know what’s just been added to Indi’s birthday list, and no, it’s not a new shirt!
If you are a lover of happy, a lover of colour and a lover of the funshine, then you are sure to be a lover of Mr Sloth! This seriously cute children’s story book gets our big giant tick of approval and then some!
Maria’s artistic, fun, and positive approach to life is evident in all that she creates and I for one think the world needs more Mr Sloth happiness! Just look at the all the CUTENESS in these pictures of her happy little customers below!
To check out Maria’s amazing store ‘Goodiis’, click HERE!
- Talk about the difference between words and pictures, ask your child to point to a word, then a picture (sounds basic but it is an important pre-literacy skill).
- Ask your child to show you how to hold the book and turn the pages.
- Point out where the ‘title’ of the book is located and use your finger to ‘track’ the words in the title together.
- Point out where the Author and Illustrator are located and talk about who does what special job.
- Once you have finished reading, ask your child what their favourite part of the story was and why (if they are too young, ask them something basic like show me your favourite picture/page).
Happy days! love ness X
Images with Indi are mine, all other images are credited to Maria and her beautiful customers (who I thank whole heartedly for letting me share x) .