Based on the fantastic new book What the Ladybird Heard on Holiday by Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks we’ve created a trail around the zoo. The trail was inspired by some of the zoo animals and the noises they make that, in Julia and Lydia’s book, help the clever little ladybird stop Lanky Len and Hefty Hugh from kidnapping Monkey Joe and using him to steal the Queen’s crown!
Pick up a map when you arrive and explore the zoo to find the animals from the story! Visit the snapping crocodiles, the roaring lions and the howling monkeys to complete the trail. The trail will be running from Saturday 24 March until Sunday 15 April.
Then on Saturday 7 April join bestselling, award-winning illustrator Lydia Monks and her clever little crime-busting ladybird friend on a holiday at Chester Zoo!
In this very special interactive illustration workshop Lydia Monks will introduce you to the ladybird’s new zoo animal friends. In her workshop you can discover how to draw a growling tiger, a ‘humphing’ camel and a trumpeting elephant, as well as the heroes of the story – Monkey Joe and the little ladybird herself!
You’ll also get an exclusive chance to meet Lydia after each workshop, and have your copy of What the Ladybird Heard on Holiday (available from the Chester Zoo gift shop) signed by Lydia.
Lydia Monks is one of the most original and bestselling picture book artists working today. Lydia illustrates several bestselling series including the What the Ladybird Heard adventures and Princess Mirror-Belle, written by Julia Donaldson.
Watch Lydia in action in the below video, maybe even have a practice at drawing before you come to her workshop at the zoo.
As part of our collaboration with Macmillan Children’s Books, we’re also running a special competition for your chance to win a Chester Zoo animal adoption pack and a collection of signed books by Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks, including What the Ladybird Heard on Holiday.
So put your drawing skills to the test – all you need to do is send us your drawing of your favourite animal from the zoo, and Lydia will pick her favourite.
Find all you need to know about the trail and competition here >