A treasurable story that begs to be read aloud with its irrepressible rhythm and will lodge itself in little ones’ memories with its gorgeous illustrations.
Published in hardback by Walker Books on Thursday, September 11th, 2025, Oh Dear, Look What I Got! is a rhyming picture book that begs to be read aloud with its irrepressible rhythm and will lodge itself in little ones’ memories with its gorgeous illustrations.
The book centres around a child’s trip to the shop, which catalyses a series of comedic animal cameos. Helen’s ever-delightful characterisation of the anthropomorphised creatures brings the fun story to life, and readers of all ages are suitably desperate to see who comes next!
Oh Dear, Look What I Got! will spark the imagination of a new generation of readers to join in with the melodic text, their parents and teachers nostalgic for We’re Going on a Bear Hunt may notice a remarkably familiar bear making an appearance too!
“I was drawn to the text because it’s so original. It had a flavour of Dr Seuss, and I relished the prospect to work in a different way to enhance the funny text.” – Helen Oxenbury
When I heard that Helen wanted to do the artwork for it, I was over the moon. She has a wonderful expressive line that conveys mood and feeling, very much grounded in a place. She does all that, while carefully popping in detail, cameos that we might miss on a first reading or even on a second reading. It’s as if there’s always more to find and think about. – Michael Rosen
“I wanted the words to have the rhythm of and flavour of how people talk, with the added punch of rhyme. I also wanted to grab the mood of a child who’s annoyed – a bit exasperated with what grown-ups do.
As individuals both Michael and Helen have remarkable careers, both are globally successful, and both have individually published 100+ books each! Both have won multiple awards for their other literary work, and their only other joint project We’re Going on a Bear Hunt, is a multi-award-winning success.
“Helen’s pictures match the wit, bounce and rhythm of Michael’s original story poem faultlessly, in a way only she can. Michael and Helen have always been an iconic duo – for 36 years We’re Going on a Bear Hunt has been an absolute staple in children’s lives and has been at the heart of Walker Books’ list. Oh Dear, Look What I Got! truly consolidates them as the perfect picture book partnership.
Only their second ever book together, it is destined to become another definitive read-aloud story book classic that is sure to be read and loved by generations of children to come.” – Deirdre McDermott Picture Book Publisher: Walker Books
And might the bear in the new book be a gentle nod from Michael and Helen to Bear Hunt?!
Signed copies of ‘Oh Dear, Look What I Got!’ are available from Watersones. Alternatively why not pop into your local bookshop. They will be very happy to see you and both books should be widely available
