Whimsy, Wonder, and Watercolors: Exploring the Imaginative World of Julian Hilton and Singing Frog Publishing
If you’ve ever read a children’s book that made you laugh out loud, pause to appreciate a quiet moment, or rethink the magic in a button and a bean, you’ve already stepped into the imaginative world of Julian Hilton. Through Singing Frog Publishing, Hilton has created a growing library of picture books that blend playfulness, education, and emotional depth - all with a distinct artistic voice and a heart for storytelling.
Julian Hilton isn’t just the author behind his books - he’s also the illustrator for most of them. His signature natural watercolor style brings a softness and sincerity to the stories, making each book feel both timeless and approachable. Whether he's painting curious teddy bears or misbehaving sausages, his artwork enhances the warmth and wonder that defines his writing.
Singing Frog Publishing’s catalog is built on the belief that books can entertain, educate, and inspire without talking down to young readers. Julian Hilton’s books do just that, gently weaving learning into laughter and silliness into storytelling.
Jumbo Giant Sausages: A delicious rhyming picture book adventure with numbers by Julian HiltonMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Silly, Smart, and Seriously Fun: Why Jumbo Giant Sausages Is a New Favorite
Some children's books make us giggle, others spark important conversations, but every now and then, one comes along that simply becomes a household favorite. That’s exactly what Jumbo Giant Sausages by Julian Hilton has become for us.
The first time I read it aloud, my child was laughing before I even finished the second page. Now, every time we revisit it (which is often), they’re giggling hard during the whole read-aloud. There’s something about the rhythm, the ridiculousness, and the buildup that hits the sweet spot for kids who love both silly stories and a good rhyme.
As a writer, I really appreciate the pacing of the book. Julian Hilton has nailed the musicality of rhyme as each line flows into the next with bounce and energy, making it a joy to read aloud. The counting element is subtly woven in as the sausages' names, so children are absorbing simple math concepts without even realizing it. It’s learning in disguise wrapped in humor and absurdity.
The illustrations are bold and dynamic, and my child points out new details each time. The sausages themselves are cartoonishly wonderful, and the comic professionalization of the sausages on each page adds to the fun. There's a real sense of movement and scale that makes the story come alive.
From a parent’s point of view, Jumbo Giant Sausages entertains and educates without ever feeling forced. And from a fellow author’s perspective, it’s inspiring to see a book that’s so confidently itself: weird, wild, and wonderful.
If you’re looking for a read-aloud that will become a repeat request, this one’s a keeper.
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The Button and the Bean by Julian HiltonMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Small Things, Big Wonders: A Quirky Tale of Curiosity and Connection
Julian Hilton’s The Button and the Bean is a wonderfully curious and slightly surreal tale that will capture young imaginations with its mix of whimsy, wonder, and quiet charm. It begins with two simple objects - a button and a bean - but quickly unfolds into something far more delightful and unexpected.
The story invites readers into a world where the ordinary becomes magical, and where even the smallest things can take center stage. There’s a rhythm to the storytelling that feels almost like a fable - centered around letter "B" - and the subtle humor woven throughout keeps it light and engaging.
Visually, the book is full of personality. The illustrations have a hand-crafted, playful quality that mirrors the slightly offbeat tone of the text. Each page offers something new to notice - whether it’s the expressive faces, clever layout, or cozy color palette that keeps young eyes engaged.
One of the most memorable aspects of The Button and the Bean is its ability to balance silliness with sincerity. It encourages kids to slow down and notice the little things - to wonder, question, and imagine what stories even the most unassuming objects might hold.
A great pick for kids ages 3–7, this book is ideal for bedtime or classroom reading - especially for curious thinkers and storytellers-in-the-making.
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Time Telling Ted: A rhyming picture book tale of time with teddy bears by Julian HiltonMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Learning Time with Time Telling Ted
Time Telling Ted by Julian Hilton is a clever, cozy, and wonderfully engaging picture book that helps young readers grasp the concept of time with a clever teddy bear.
As a parent, I’m always looking for ways to introduce life skills in ways that feel like play and Time Telling Ted hits that sweet spot. The story follows a cuddly and confident teddy bear named Ted who takes kids through the rhythms of the day with his trusty clock and rhyming charm.
From waking up at 8:00 AM to winding down at bedtime, Ted’s routine offers a gentle, structured framework for understanding how time shapes our daily lives. What makes this book so effective is its blend of simplicity and rhythm. Julian Hilton’s rhyming text is easy to follow, fun to say out loud, and it helps kids remember key time-telling moments.
The illustrations are soft, warm, and filled with teddy bear charm - just the kind of cozy visuals that invite kids to linger on each page.
As an author, I also admire how Julian Hilton has embedded learning into a story that doesn’t feel like a lesson. That balance between narrative and concept is tricky to pull off, and Time Telling Ted does it beautifully. It’s a fantastic pick for preschoolers or early primary learners, especially those beginning to learn how to read clocks or understand daily routines.
Whether you're using this book to start conversations about time or simply enjoying it as a bedtime wind-down, Time Telling Ted is a gentle guide through the day with a teddy bear to lead the way.
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Bradley and the Dinosaur by Julian HiltonMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Bradley and the Dinosaur by Julian Hilton, with illustrations by Jacqueline East, is a lively and imaginative story that brings prehistoric wonder into the everyday world of a child. As the first book in the Bradley’s Magic Adventures series, it sets the stage for a young hero whose curiosity leads to truly magical moments.
Bradley is a relatable character from the start. He is curious, energetic, and just adventurous enough to get into a little trouble. One ordinary day, that adventurous spirit leads him to an extraordinary discovery: a dinosaur! What follows is a fun, slightly wild ride that blends imagination with action in a way that makes children lean in and listen closely.
My child was instantly captivated by the idea of a real dinosaur appearing in an ordinary setting. The story’s pacing is perfect for a read-aloud, moving quickly enough to hold young attention spans while building suspense and excitement along the way. The text is written with energy and rhythm, and Julian Hilton does a great job of capturing the kind of playful tension kids love.
Jacqueline East’s illustrations are colorful, expressive, and filled with motion. The dinosaur is friendly and just mysterious enough, while Bradley’s facial expressions add personality and humor. The art feels warm and approachable, grounding the fantasy in a world that feels familiar and safe.
As both a mom and a fellow author, I appreciate stories like Bradley and the Dinosaur that encourage children to dream big and explore their imaginations. This story is not only a delight to read - it opens the door for rich conversations about curiosity, courage, and creativity.
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What makes Julian Hilton’s work stand out is his ability to move between tones and topics without losing the heart of his storytelling. From teaching time to chasing dinosaurs, every book feels thoughtful, original, and joyfully written. He creatively explores topics big and small - with sincerity, humor, and lots of watercolor whimsy.
If you're looking for books that feel fresh, funny, and meaningful all at once, Julian Hilton’s stories are a delightful place to start. Whether you’re sharing a silly rhyme or slowing down with a thoughtful tale, his books will leave young readers smiling and maybe even wondering what stories will be created next.
