Press

What the critics say

A delicate, poignant, exquisitely drawn exploration of affinity with no need for a clumping moral
- Guardian

A charming, beautifully illustrated parable about sibling love
- The Times

Beautifully illustrated with simple pictures that convey so much and an ending to make you feel uplifted. Wonderful
- Carousel

I found myself moved to tears by the implications of Croc and Bird's relationship: how family is what you make it, not what is expected by others, how you can feel isolated and alone amongst your kind and accepted and loved by those who are not
- Library Mice

The publishing standards are very high; the book is beautifully produced and the illustrations - the book is as much about the drawings as the text - are delightful and make the book as accessible to those who cannot yet read as to those who can.
- School Librarian magazine

This stunning book follows the story of these two characters and how they teach each other their individual skills. A touching tale of how family ties aren't always so obvious to everyone but can be found right under your nose!
- The Golden Treasury

Superb pastel illustrations and simple, thought-provoking text make this a lovely introduction to finding your place in the world. Delightful!
- Daily Mail

A beautifully illustrated picture book
- Mellow Mummy

An exquisitely illustrated, dreamy tale . . . delivered with exceptional sensitivity
- Teach Nursery

A story about loving each other beyond the boundaries of culture
- Junior

Youngsters will love this story that explores the bonds that tie us together
- Aldershot News

A charming tale of friendship and the meaning of family . . . Deacon's illustrations are sophisticated and his washes of colour beautiful . . . A visual treat
- Booktrust

This is a gorgeous, heart warming picture book
- Primary Times

Never sentimental but always subtle, this is a joyous meeting of prose and picture
- Irish Times

This subtle little beauty of a picture book, Croc and Bird, is a sweet and tender story . . . A delight from beginning to end
- Armadillo Magazine

It’s unusual, it has some great illustrations and demonstrates that whilst people may be different, similarities can allow everyone to become friends . . . A truly wonderful read and one that I really can’t wait to share with my nephews
- Tatty's Treasure Chest

This deeply emotional and moving story about love and closeness despite difference is perhaps Deacon’s best book yet.Quite superb
- Books for Keeps

The softly coloured pictures convey all the emotion and complement the feel of the book excellently. A wonderful heart-warming story
- Parents in Touch