Just wanted to post a recommendation for this book! It's gorgeous. The animals all have these quirky back stories like Alan the Lion who's in a ska band , and the stitches are really simple.
So far I've made the Buff-Orptington chicks on that page and some hatching eggs as an Easter prezzy and just finished the little cat in the pink dress on the right of the front cover.
Definitely recommend it for new and experienced crocheters.