‘This is, at first glance, a very simple, quite quirky and humorous picture book, with minimal text and appealing, colourful, digitally produced illustrations. But it is also a fascinating introduction to life in a rock pool: who lives there, who visits when the tide comes in, who is stung by the anemone and who it can form a symbiotic relationship with.’

‘[Anenome is not the Enemy’s] dappled art has an appropriately aquatic feel, with the gentle blue of the tides interrupted by the neon zaps of Anemone's stingers. McGregor visually includes simple marine life facts into the backdrop of Anemone's dilemma and then expands upon them in the ‘Fun Facts’ backmatter, making this a mini-science lesson wrapped in a sweet friendship story.’

‘Terrific neon-hued read-aloud fun.’

‘This fun and funny picture book tells the story of Anemone who lives in a rock pool and desperately wants a friend … The digitally produced illustrations add so much to this title, from the eye catching neon pink used for the title, endpapers, and titular character to the simple yet sweetly drawn and coloured sea horse, starfish, and sea cucumber … I would highly recommend Anemone is not the Enemy for young readers especially those interested in the natural world.’

‘Utterly charming, and the dialogue between the creatures makes it a fun read aloud … Simple but oh-so-effective, this is a brilliant book for introducing children to the idea of nature’s partnerships.’

‘An adorable story about an anemone who is hoping to make friends but always happens to sting everyone.’

‘Sweet and informative … Anna McGregor’s appealing and clearly laid out illustration makes the most of the shocking pink of the anemone to create very pretty spreads.’

‘Even someone socially awkward can find a friend. A habit of stinging keeps lonely Anemone from making friends, but for a clownfish, Anemone is just the right companion … (The last fact will be familiar to anyone who’s seen Disney’s Finding Nemo.) … Attentive readers will be intrigued.’

Melbourne-based author, illustrator, and designer Anna McGregor is devoted to giving her young readers modern, quirky, and conceptual stories from the heart. Her day job is graphic design, and when she’s not sitting at a desk, Anna enjoys travel, art, and picnics with friends.