Tails of Tangleby Gardens 2

Tails of Tangleby Gardens 2 written by Sue Heazlewood and illustrated by Jane Smith, won Best Children’s Book in the World at the 2023 Gourmand World Cookbook Awards. It was also highly celebrated for its distinctive integration of storytelling and culinary education, receiving a nomination in the Illustrations category.

• A Festive New Adventure: The story opens during the busy, sunny summer preparations for Christmas in New Zealand. 
• Unexpected Visitors: The original animal crew, including the rabbit couple Montgomery and Marmalade, alongside their resident mice, cats, hedgehogs, birds, and frogs, are surprised when two stranded ducks arrive after their car breaks down nearby.
• Whimsical Hijinks: Over the course of 10 chapters, the animal community embarks on a series of adventures featuring dramatic rescues, holiday stowaways, ghostly encounters, and a magnificent grand ball hosted inside a castle (inspired by New Zealand's real-life Larnach Castle).

• The "Tomato" Skill System: The book contains 36 child-friendly recipes to make cooking accessible for kids, the recipes are categorized into three skill levels using a tomato rating scale: 1 Tomato (very easy), 2 Tomatoes (easy), and 3 Tomatoes (some skill required). 
• No Snowy Christmases: True to its North Canterbury, New Zealand setting, the book intentionally avoids traditional winter/snowy tropes, focusing instead on summer-friendly recipes and outdoor holiday rituals.
• Mixed-Media Art: The layout pairs over 160 whimsical colour illustrations by Jane Smith with vibrant, professional food photography by Neil Smith of Chocolate Dog Studio.