Shrapnel Boys

Two days before Britain’s Declaration of War, Ronnie, his younger brother, Micky, and best friend, Lugs, watch many children from their school set off as they are evacuated to the countryside. Ronnie’s mum cannot bear to be parted from her boys and Ronnie considers himself the man of the house since she kicked their father out. When war is declared, his mum decides to have an Andersen shelter built in the garden and a neighbour recommends a certain Johnny Simmons to do the job. Although Ronnie takes an instant dislike to him, everyone else succumbs to Johnny’s charm and when Ronnie turns down the chance to earn some money doing odd jobs, Micky is quick to agree. This leads to a divide forming between the brothers as Micky becomes increasingly secretive and Ronnie increasingly concerned about what his little brother has become mixed up in.

‘Shrapnel Boys’ is a huge change of pace from the humorous, heart-warming stories readers have become used to from Jenny Pearson; however, it simply shows that she is a superb storyteller, able to turn her hand to hard-hitting adventures with as much skill as anything else.

Full of historical detail, it is obvious that a great deal of research underpins this adventure story, making it a gripping, exciting read, but one which also offers readers information about the war and the lives of families affected by it. It would make an excellent key text to support a history topic through study and discussion, or as a class read to enjoy alongside work.

Ronnie is a real cheeky chappie, often in trouble at school, but with a heart of gold. His loyalty to family and friends is endearing and he strives to keep them safe against all odds. The contrast between his rough and ready personality and the charming, manipulative Johnny, who is so quick to use others to further his own ends, works really well and may well offer a starting point for some much-needed conversations about coercive control and how people may not always be as they seem.

At times, the story is not an easy read- I found it quite uncomfortable in places- but it is challenging, thought-provoking and powerful. One not to be missed.

Shrapnel Boys

Jenny Pearson

Usborne    ISBN: 978-1805312963

Torla and Smorla and the Deeper than Average Hole

When Torla, the taller-than-average giraffe, is stuck in a deeper-than-average hole, it is up to her smaller-than-average friend, Smorla, to find a way to get her out!

I absolutely loved ‘Torla and Smorla and the Lower than Average Cloud’ and was so excited when I spotted that another adventure for this loveable duo is on its way! ‘Torla and Smorla and the Deeper than Average Hole’ is just as brilliant as the first book and I hope that there are many more to come!

As with the last book, the friendship between these two giraffes is at the heart of the story. When Torla falls into the hole and gets stuck, Smorla is determined to help, coming up with different ideas and persisting until Torla is at last free. Not being able to free Torla alone, Smorla first seeks help from others and when that doesn’t work, comes up with an ingenious solution to solve the problem!

The illustrations are a complete joy and add much to the humour of the story. The tall, thin format of the book emphasises the height difference between the two and readers can fold some pages out or up, allowing them to be part of the adventure as the story progresses. The giraffes’ faces show a whole range of emotions through the ups and downs of Torla’s time in the hole, allowing for plenty of exploration of emotions.

There is much repetition of the phrase ‘(something)-than-average’, encouraging children to explore what this means (in simple terms!), perhaps leading to discussions about the joys of being unique and the fact that being different from your friends is absolutely normal! The book really lends itself to a book groups session as there are so many crafty ideas which it inspires as well as being a really fun read!

Can’t wait to see what these two get up to next!

Torla and Smorla and the Deeper than Average Hole

Kes Gray, illustrated by Chris Jevons

Happy Yak ISBN: ‎ 978-0711288126

Published 3rd July 2025

You can read my review of ‘Torla and Smorla and the Lower than Average Cloud’ here.

A Mouse Just Ate My House

A naughty little mouse with very sharp teeth is constantly eating…the kitchen, the bathroom, the pest controller. Will anything make it stop?

Fast paced and funny, ‘A Mouse Just Ate my House’ is a riotous romp, perfect for reading aloud!

Many readers will be familiar with Kes Gray’s ‘Oi Frog’ series and his latest story does not disappoint. The lively rhyming text keeps building as the mouse’s eating antics get wilder and wilder until everything is resolved…or is it?!

Cut through sections add extra excitement to the illustrations and children will enjoy peeking through the pages as the mouse chomps its way into the story. They will quickly learn to join in as each possible solution is followed by ‘The mouse just ate my…’ and the story romps on. It’s the sort of story which inspires children to create their own additional scenarios whether in rhyme or not and perhaps illustrate these as well. As the mouse’s meals become more and more unlikely, readers are sure to try trump these ideas with whackier and whackier suggestions.

I would not recommend this as a bedtime read, however, as it will do nothing to lull little ones off to sleep- quite the reverse in fact!

A Mouse Just Ate my House

Kes Gray, illustrated by Sebastien Braun

Happy Yak ISBN: 978-0711288034

All the Wonderful Ways to Move

Bursting with energy, ‘All the Wonderful Ways to Move’ is a delightful book which celebrates being active and having fun. A young child, an older lady and a whole host of animal characters dance their way across the pages of the book, encouraging readers to join in the fun!

The rhyming text offers a wonderful background beat to the sequence of movements the text suggests- clapping, stomping, wriggling, stretching and bending- leading to everyone having a thoroughly good time. Repetition of sections will soon have children joining in and, no doubt, quickly learning the sequence, joining in with the words as they perform the actions. Some ‘cool down’ moves are also included before everyone flops at the end.

With an emphasis on taking part. creatures of all shapes and sizes are shown joining in and having fun as they perform this series of moves which can be differentiated to accommodate everyone at a level at which they are comfortable. Using an older adult and showing them as mobile and active is wonderful as this is not something very often seen in children’s books.

The illustrations are great fun and readers are sure to be inspired to create their own routines to share as they quickly learn there are so many wonderful ways to move- and enjoy doing so!

All the Wonderful Ways to Move

Laura Baker, illustrated by Sandra de la Prada

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1838917227

You can read my review of ‘All the Wonderful Ways to Read’ here.

Best of All Worlds

When Xavier wakes up on the first morning of a family weekend with his pregnant step-mum, Nia, and dad, Caleb, which he doesn’t want to be on, he doesn't recognise where they are. Everything inside seems the same- but it’s as if the house has been transported to a different location. Having thoroughly explored their new surroundings, the family discover that they are trapped in what appears to be an invisible, self-healing dome from which they cannot escape and have mysterious markings on their lower backs. When the birth of Nia’s baby proves complicated, it becomes apparent that they are being monitored by a benevolent, unseen power which intervenes when they need help.

Three years later, although he still desperately misses his real mother and older brother, Sam, who were left behind, Xavier and his family, including his little brother, Noah, have adapted to life on the farm which they have been given, adopting a self sufficient lifestyle and living off the land. Suddenly, another farm and then a new family- the Jacksons- appear in the dome. A family with very different views, a family with weapons…and a teenage daughter. Tension mounts on many levels as these differences drive a wedge between the two families as the actions of one seems to bring consequences for the other, creating an impossible situation.

‘Best of All Worlds’ is an utterly absorbing read which is both thought-provoking and enjoyable. On one level, it is an intriguing dystopian novel, with people trapped, controlled and isolated, forced to live their lives according to the ‘rules’ imposed upon them. However, it is also a provocative, challenging read, designed to spark discussion- argument even!

Once Xavier’s family- the Oaks- have explored all possibilities for escape, they have become resigned to their fate and adapted to their new lives, believing they have been victims of an alien abduction. For Xavier- Zay- things are different. Thirteen when first trapped, sixteen when the Jacksons arrive, there are things which he struggles with- missing his mother and brother, his friends, gaming, no sex; however, he too has fallen into the new daily rhythm of life. The appearance of a teenage girl, albeit one with a boyfriend, is unsettling enough, but he is also presented with the government conspiracy theories of Riley Jackson, father of the new family, and someone who is determined to escape. Zay finds himself caught between the two families.

There are other differences. The Oaks are pacifists, environmentally aware whilst the Jacksons are weapon-owning, deeply religious and hold some extreme racial views. This gulf between them highlights many political and social divides, encouraging exploration of human nature and disparate viewpoints. There is so much to explore here, not least the hints at the reasons behind the abduction, making this an excellent read for a book group.

Well written and engaging, ‘Best of All Worlds’ is a real page turner which leaves the reader with much to mull over, long after they close the book.

Best of All Worlds

Kenneth Oppel

Guppy Books ISBN: 978-1916558458

Why Do We Sleep?

As someone who doesn’t sleep very well, I found ‘Why Do We Sleep?’ a really engaging and informative read. Starting with why we need sleep, the book explores all manner of sleep related subjects, including how we benefit from a good night’s rest.

The book introduces sleep related terms like ‘circadian rhythms’, ‘atonia’ and oneirology’, clearly explaining these in context, helping readers to develop a deeper understanding of how we sleep. A glossary at the end of the book offers additional explanations.

Busy, collage style illustrations fill every spread with text presented in small, accessible chunks spread across the pages. Snippets of additional information are shown in speech bubbles or text boxes. The font used in these is one which mixes upper and lower case letter which is something which really jars with me and detracts from the book which is a shame. However, this said, the information presented is fascinating!

As well as looking at the sleeping habits of humans, the book looks at how various animals sleep and dream, including hibernation. Readers are also introduced to myths from around the world linked to sleep such as Fylgja, a guardian spirit from Norse mythology and the Baku, a creature from Japanese legend.

Perfect for enriching learning and broadening the curriculum, this book also helps children to understand the importance of sleep, with suggestions for developing positive bed time habits, including a ‘sleep flow chart’ designed to help improve sleep quality. I will definitely be trying this out!

Why Do We Sleep?

Cathy Evans, illustrated by Polya Plavinskaia

Cicada Books ISBN: 978-1800660588

I’m Going to Make a Friend

A child moves to a new house and is worried about making new friends. How long will it take? What games will they want to play? Will they have their own ideas? In the end, you just have to give it a go!

‘How to Make a Friend’ is a delightful, reassuring book which explores all the emotions it takes to form a friendship.

Text and illustration work beautifully together in this book as the pictures show the child using junk modelling to create a friend, encouraging readers to explore the idea of ‘making a friend’ and what this really means. At times, the robot style creation seems to come to life through the child’s imagination, but reverts to an inanimate form when the child interacts with others. As the child struggles with all the questions filling their head about what they might expect from a friend, the story offers a perfect springboard for discussion and role play to develop and explore these ideas.

The child- never identified as a boy or a girl- does have a constant companion- the cat which follows them around, their expression mirroring the feelings of the child. There are many details in the pictures for readers to discuss and enjoy as they explore the developing friendship. There are plenty of pages to pause on, to discuss what might be happening, what might be said - and what might happen next. The end papers are also worth lingering over- the child (and their cat!) play alone at the beginning, the two children(and the cat!) play together at the end.

A brilliant book for both home and school, ‘I’m Going to Make a Friend’ is just lovely!

I’m Going to Make a Friend

Darren Chetty, illustrated by Sandhya Prabhat

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1801046602

Finders of Silverthorn Forest: The Lost Treasures

Max is determined to find the old time capsule, buried years ago by his grandmother, before she moves out of Pickwick Cottage and goes to live with Max and his mother. However, he never expected his search would lead him to meet Tuftorious Snook, collector of lost objects, and one of the Finders of Silverthorn Wood. When Max unwittingly goes against their code, the Finders, naturally wary of humans, banish him from the woods. However, learning the Finders- and the woods- are under threat, Max is determined to save them.

Children are always asking me what my favourite book is - a question I find impossible to answer. They then move on to try and make me identify my favourite book of the year… the month…the week…and I can never decide. However, I can confidently claim that ‘Finders of Silverthorn Forest: The Lost Treasures’ is a one of the best books I have read this year- and one which I will thoroughly enjoy sharing!

There is something so magical about this story. It is beautifully written, full of rich languages choices and vivid descriptions, something which can be missing from books for younger readers. The text is a joy to read aloud, perfect for using as a class text to inspire creativity and excellent work, or for a class story. It is a delightful story, a warm, feel-good read which children- and adults will love.

Tuftorious Snook- what a name!- is a lovely character. Tuft is very proud of being a Finder and sticks to the rules he has been brought up to believe in. Yet, he is prepared to adapt his thinking to help his new friend, showing himself to be kind and caring. His collection of found items is sure to start discussions about what constitutes treasure, the idea of ‘finders keepers’ and recycling. Max is just as lovely. His relationship with his grandmother is beautifully captured; his determined to find her special time capsule and make her happy is really heart-warming. This kind nature also shows itself in his desire to save the Finders, no matter what they think of him.

The illustrations are as delightful as the story, full of details to enjoy. I absolutely loved this one and can’t wait to read the next book about Max and Tuft.

Finders of Silverthorn Forest: The Lost Treasures

Rachel Chivers Khoo, illustrated by Laura Catalan

Walker ISBN: 978-1529523805

You can read my review of ‘The Wishkeeper’s Apprentice’ here and ‘The Magician Next Door’ here.

Small, Sparkling Raindrop

‘Small, Sparkling Raindrop’ is the latest in the ‘Start Small, Think Big’ series. These lovely books thoughtfully present information by starting with things children are familiar with and connecting these to the bigger picture of the world.

In this book, children follow the path of a raindrop from the moment it falls from a cloud. Through its journey, they learn about the water cycle, the vital role water plays for all living things, how water shapes the land and the importance of clean water to the environment.

The text is beautifully presented, supported by attractive, eye-catching illustrations. The raindrop tells its own story at each stage, clearly and concisely explaining what is happening whilst additional information is also offered, written in italics to be easily differentiated from the raindrop’s narrative.

An excellent classroom resource, the book links with many curriculum areas and, although geared at a KS1 audience, would be very useful in KS2, supporting understanding of topics such as the water cycle or rivers. Technical vocabulary associated with these subjects is carefully used and explained, for example, children learn why a river delta has this name. The book focuses on the Mekong river, offering a chance to enrich the curriculum by drawing attention to a river which might not be a ‘typical’ classroom choice and offering potential for further research and discovery.

As with all the titles in this series, the book concludes with a fold-out which pulls together all the information covered through the book, plus offers an I-Spy game which encourages readers to re-explore the book, hunting for the animals.

A great addition to the series!

Start Small, Think Big: Small, Sparkling River

Mary Auld, illustrated by Lou Baker Smith

Mama Makes Books ISBN: 978-1916780101

You can read my review of ‘Flying, Fluffy Seed’ here and ‘Small, Speckled Egg’/ ‘Little, Brown Nut’ here.

Blog Tour: Soni and the Life Drinkers

I am delighted to be taking part in the Book Tour for ‘Soni and the Life Drinkers’- which is published TODAY!

Soni is determined that she and her dance team will win first place at Vunja Mifupa, an annual dance contest. But the sudden arrival of Thandiwe, a shiqq-human hybrid claiming to be her cousin, and the rapidly declining health of the Intasimi Warriors’ mentor, Mr. Lemayian, give her plenty else to focus on. Thandiwe claims she is there to help them find the Life Drinker who is draining Mr Lemayian, but can the Intasimi Warriors really trust her…

‘Soni and the Life Drinkers’ is the third adventure for Soni and her friends. Set in Nairobi, it is a fast-paced, action-packed read- one not to be missed!

Soni is a wonderful character. Determined and loyal, she puts great pressure on herself, feeling everyone expects her to be perfect and trying her best to live up to this. Through the course of this story, she learns much about herself and her family, coming to realise that things are not always right or wrong and that a more balanced approach is sometimes needed. Her developing relationship with Thandiwe, who turns out to be her cousin, makes her pause to reflect on how she has made impulsive snap decisions about people because of their parents.

Each of the Intasimi Warriors has a special gift- a superpower- to help them combat evil and the book has many fantasy elements. However, the author skilfully weaves elements of Kenyan culture and folklore into the story, creating a rich background. When searching for the aunt Soni never knew existed, the Warriors visit Mukuru, a giant settlement, completely at odds with the area they live in. The interest of readers (like myself!) unfamiliar with Kenya is sure to be piqued, leading them to discover more about the country, its geography and customs.

I now need to read the first two books in this series - and look forward to the next one!

The Intasimi Warriors: Soni and the Life Drinkers

Shiko Nguru, illustrated by Melissa McIndoe

Lantana ISBN: 978-1836290285

Thank you to Katrina for inviting me to take part in this tour. Make sure you check the other stops to find out what everyone else is saying about this book!

The Fossil Keeper’s Treasure

They say to never judge a book by its cover, but ‘The Fossil Keeper’s Treasure’ is as lovely inside as the outside hints it’s going to be! Not only is it visually appealing, there is a tactile element to the book as well, allowing readers to explore the embossed fossils by touching them.

Presented as a scrapbook, with short snippets of information scattered across the illustrations, the author shares the story behind ten fossil discoveries. The book begins with an explanation of what fossils are and how they are formed, including the different types of fossils which can be found, before focusing on each discovery in turn.

Information about the creature, the period in which it lived, the type of animal it was, the type of fossil found and how it was preserved is given. In most cases, details of the palaeontologist who made the discovery are also given, making this a treasure trove of information for anyone already fascinated by fossils and inspiring for any novices wishing to find out more.

A wonderful book to share or browse at leisure, ‘The Fossil Keeper’s Treasure’ is one to return to again and again!

The Fossil Keeper’s Treasure

Amy Atwater, illustrated by Natalia Cardozo

Magic Cat ISBN: 978-1917044127

It’s OK to Say No

Part of the ‘Let’s Talk…’ series, ‘It’s OK to Say No’ is a well considered, reassuring book which introduces children to the idea of consent and personal boundaries.

Starting with an explanation of what ‘consent’ means the book then explores a whole range of situations and the emotions which children might feel when in a similar position. It begins with feeling comfortable/ uncomfortable before moving on to giving, and asking for, consent. Appealing, colourful illustrations and simple, clear sections of text make the book accessible to a wide reading audience. The book also makes the point that there is a difference between feeling uncomfortable about something and just not wanting to do it, giving clear examples of when an adult might expect something to be done like teeth cleaning or tidying up.

Other considerations like being uncomfortable/ comfortable with different things, changing our minds are also explored before the book moves onto what people usually keep ‘private’ and why touch needs consent. This is all very carefully and thoughtfully handled, presented in age appropriate language and focusing on everyday situations and concluding with step-by-step advice on how to say ‘no’ and who to turn to for help if needed. It is perfect for starting conversations with even the youngest children about consent and respect for their own, and others, boundaries.

Additional advice is included at the end of the book for grown-ups, offering further guidance for how to support children develop this sense of respect for themselves and for others. Although pitched at younger children, there is nothing to stop parents, teachers or other adults using the book with mixed aged siblings, friends or classes of older students.

An excellent addition to bookshelves!

A Let’s Talk Book: It’s Ok to Say No

Molly Potter, illustrated by Sarah Jennings

Bloomsbury Education ISBN: 978-1801995382

Elephant Can’t Jump

Elephant is determined to take part in the Big Boing Off competition this year. All the usual contestants, Flea, Frog, Goat and Kangaroo, are taking part and are expert jumpers, but when Elephant tries, she finds she just can’t jump!

However, with some creative thinking, perseverance and a little help from her friends, perhaps Elephant can find a way to jump after all.

‘Elephant Can’t Jump’ is a real ‘feel good’ story, perfect for sharing with little ones, which offers a really positive message about perseverance and determination.

Determined to enter the competition, Elephant is supported by her friends in trying to find a solution to her problem. As each attempt fails, she shows great resilience as her friends come up with creative ways of helping her to achieve her goal. They all keep trying until, together, they have ensured their friend’s success and can all celebrate together!

The story reminds readers that there is no one right way of doing things. Each of the animals has their own approach and techniques for jumping- no one way better than the other- which allow them to experience success. When none of these ways work for Elephant, they simply set about finding a way which suits her and allows her to achieve her goal. Although delighted with herself, Elephant is quick to thank her friends for their help, showing that teamwork, friendship and determination make an excellent combination!

Robert Starling’s colourful illustrations are full of humour, energy and colour, with plenty of details to spot. The book if perfect for sharing at home or at school, offering an excellent starting point for discussions about perseverance and looking for alternative ways of finding a solution! Great fun!

Elephant Can’t Jump

Pip Jones, illustrated by Robert Starling

Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1471193316

Secrets of Bees

Beautifully presented, ‘Secrets of Bees’ is both informative and engaging. The role of bees and their importance is celebrated throughout the book, leaving readers with a deeper understanding of, and respect for, the brilliant creatures.

Fabulous illustrations accompany the text, visually supporting the information. A labelled diagram of a bee, for example, contributes to understanding its features, whilst other snippets of information are attractively presented alongside. These bite sized sections of text make the information easy to absorb and a comprehensive glossary at the end of the book supports understanding of the ‘technical’ vocabulary used throughout.

Every page celebrates the importance of these tiny creatures, championing the role they play and encouraging readers to value their contributions and do everything they can to help them in return from providing nest sites to planting more flowers. The book acknowledges that bees sting and it hurts when they do, explaining that this is their way of defending themselves and that they would much prefer to be left alone.

A fascinating read, ‘Secrets of Bees’ would make an excellent addition to any school or class library, enriching the curriculum and sparking interest in these precious creatures.

Secrets of Bees

Ben Hoare, illustrated by Nina Chakrabarti

Nosy Crow and Cambridge University ISBN: 978-1805133179

Gloam

Since the death of their mother, Gwen and her younger brother and twin sisters have been left with their step-father, Henry. Instead of thinking about how things have changed, she focuses on looking after her family until they move to The House, the former home of their late grandmother. When Henry announces that he has a job interview, he asks local baby sitter, Esme, to watch the children, much to Gwen’s annoyance. Although everyone else seems to like her, Gwen finds the babysitter slightly sinister and takes an immediate dislike to her.

As creepy things start to happen, Gwen quickly realises that she will have to take action. As Esme’s power grows, Gwen is forced to face her nightmares to save her family.

I made the great mistake of reading this at night, in a strange room whilst away from home! The spooky setting, evil villain and the building sense of malevolence all combine to make this a chilling and compelling read for those who like a good scare!

Having shouldered much of the responsibility for looking after her younger siblings, Gwen is outraged when Henry suggests that he will be finding help to look after them. Capable and responsible, she is the only one who doesn’t initially take to Esme Laverne, the pretty, practically perfect help babysitter, who appears in their home. With her concerns dismissed by everyone else, Gwen is determined to unmask the evil of this woman who has wheedled her way into their home and the affections of her family, finding the inner strength and resourcefulness needed to show everyone she (Esme) is really a monster.

Devious and calculating, Esme makes a chilling opponent! Proving that beauty on the outside does not equate to beauty on the inside, her actions are calculated to divide and conquer the family, seeking to isolate and punish any defiance. Just the sort of villain readers will love to hate!

Perfect for children who love a scary read!

Gloam

Jack Mackay

Rock the Boat ISBN: 978-0861549528

Published 14th August 2025

Basil Dreams Big

Basil the bat doesn’t believe that he can fly. Encouraged by his friend, Moth, and the rest of the fruit bats, he tries and tries, but with no luck. However, when as storm threatens Moth, Basil realises that anything is possible.

Told in bouncy, rhyming text, ‘Basil Dreams Big’ is an absolute dream to read aloud, making it perfect for sharing!

Children will empathise with Basil as he struggles to master a new skill. No matter what he does, his efforts seem fruitless, but ultimately, resilience and self-belief enable him to overcome his fears. Supported by friends and family, he struggles to find the courage until his best friend needs him and everything falls into place. Children will relate to his worries and the book makes a perfect starting point for discussions about resilience, determination and not giving up.

Gorgeous illustrations accompany the story and these could also be used with a class- or individual child- to pause the story and explore Basil’s feelings at different points, perhaps using role play or gathering vocabulary. Children might share a personal (realistic!) goal recorded on a ‘Basil’ shape which they are determined to achieve, creating a display to encourage perseverance.

Used alongside other areas of the curriculum, the book might also inspire research into fruit bats. Some of the lovely phrasing used in the story might also be explored- ‘moonlit-kissed world’, ‘dawn-dusted tree’, ‘storm-tumbled skies’- perhaps encouraging children to create their own descriptive words or phrases- even leading to poetry writing!

A really lovely book!

Basil Dreams Big

Lu Fraser, illustrated by Sarah Warburton

Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1398525832

Published 24th April 2025

The Hive

Having picked this one up at FCBG Conference, I couldn’t wait to read it!

Feldspar awaits execution. As shield to an ascendant, a member of the Hive’s royal family, she should have died when her charge, Euphemie, was murdered, but she survived. Expecting no clemency, Feldspar is surprised when a member of the royal family, Niko, comes to her defence and starts investigating. They have three days to prove Feldspar’s innocence, three days to catch a killer- and in doing so, destroy everything she has been raised to believe.

‘The Hive’ is an excellent murder mystery, set in a dystopian society which bases its structure on that of a bee hive. At the top are the queens, the Apex or council made of of members of the royal family, and their children, ascendants, known by the position of their birth. Each ascendant has a shield, with whom they are bonded at birth. Shields are conditioned to protect their ascendant above all else- the death of an ascendant results in the death of their shield. So when Euphemie dies, Feldspar should have died as well. Her survival is seen as treason. This chilling society is well imagined and developed.

Feldspar is a compelling and complex character. Initially racked with guilt and grief over her survival and Euphemie’s death, her feelings gradually change as she learns more about her world and begins to question everything she has been brought up to believe. It is easy to empathise with her turbulent emotions, making her a very sympathetic character, challenging readers to reflect on her situation and the importance of individuals being allowed to choose for themselves, rather than live in restricted dictatorships.

The murder mystery is extremely well handled and as the days pass, the reader is kept guessing to the very end, with various false starts and red herrings along the way. My only quibble with this story is the ending. For me, everything ended very quickly so I hope that there will be another story set in this world, showing what happens to Feldspar and Niko next.

A gripping and pacy read!

The Hive

Anna February

Chicken House ISBN: 9781915947277

The Bear-Shaped Hole

Gerda and Orlo share a wonderful friendship. Kind and wise, Orlo always has time to listen to, and spend time with, young Gerda, but then things change. Gerda notices that Orlo has become slower and less strong. When she asks him what’s wrong, Orlo explains that he is very ill and is going to die. Heartbroken, Gerda is filled with anger and runs away, trying to escape her grief and pain. On her return, Orlo offers a reassuring bear hug, validating her feelings and assuring her that she will feel happiness again. They spend time together, creating memories and when Orlo dies, Gerda grieves, but his wisdom has prepared her for the loss.

Deeply poignant, ‘The Bear-Shaped Hole’ is a wonderful book to support those facing an impending loss. The rhyming text shares the early experiences of Gerda, the bear who offers comfort to Bertle on the loss of his friend, Hertle, in the story, ‘The Hare-Shaped Hole’, written by the same team. The story sensitively explores Gerda’s reaction to the news that Orlo is going to die, validating her feelings at each stage, and offering the perfect starting point for conversations around loss. However, the book is also perfect for sharing with anyone, at any time, as it reminds readers of the importance of valuing time with others, living in the moments we have and creating special memories.

As with ‘The Hare-Shaped Hole’, the illustrations play a powerful role in sharing Gerda’s story and expressing her feelings. As Gerda flees from Orlo, a spiking, swirl of black trails her; another picture shows this black chaos surrounding her, almost consuming her, brilliantly expressing her feelings in visual form, perhaps helping children to show their emotions in the same way. The love between the two characters is also beautifully captured through their tender looks and joyful memories. Adults guiding children in this situation might suggest that they capture some of the special memories they create using photographs or drawings in the same way that Gerda and Orlo’s are shown in the story.

Those familiar with ‘The Hare- Shaped Hole’ will enjoy spotting some of the characters from that story in the illustrations in this book. Deeply moving, ‘The Bear-Shaped Hole’ is a stunning, comforting and much needed book.

The Bear-Shaped Hole

John Dougherty, illustrated by Thomas Docherty

Frances Lincoln ISBN: 978-0711296602

You can read my review of ‘The Hare-Shaped Hole’ here.

Under a Fire-Red Sky

Stuck on a train full of younger children being evacuated, there are four who do not want to go. Gradually, each comes to realise that they could simply get up and leave the carriage- and so they do. First to go is the Gremlin, followed by Lawrence, Olive and Franklin. Linked by this experience, they form an unlikely friendship as they face the Blitz in Greenwich.

Trying to summarise a book by Geraldine McCaughrean is almost impossible! Drawing on her firefighter father’s experiences of the London Blitz, ‘Under a Fire-Red Sky’ is a story driven by the experiences of these four unlikely friends as they cope with family life and changing relationships against the backdrop of the horrific events of the war. All their hopes and dreams are ruined as the world they knew drastically changed.

The Gremlin is a runaway, trying to escape her abusive father, ending up living in an abandoned van with her dog, Mutt. Despite being too young, Franklin is desperate to join the fire service. Described by his teacher as ‘rather intense’, Lawrence is determined to finish his secret ‘project’ and Olive, dutiful, well-behaved daughter, really doesn’t want to leave home. Although Olive and Lawrence vaguely know one another from school, the four teenagers are strangers to one another, yet are now bound together by their decision to leave the train.

Meticulously research and thus rich in historical detail, ‘Under a Fire-Red Sky’ is a compelling and absorbing read, conveying a strong sense of what life must have been like in London during the Blitz, with beautifully written, powerful descriptions throughout. Both content and style make this one for older readers as the lives and experiences of the four main characters and various events in the book are hard hitting, presented without sentimentality, yet made all the more poignant by this.

Geraldine McCaughrean is a master storyteller. This is one not to be missed.

Under a Fire-Red Sky

Geraldine McCaughrean

Usborne ISBN: 978-1836040774

My Rice is Best

Shane loves to eat rice and peas and believes it is the BEST FOOD EVER! However, when he takes some to school for his lunch, he soon discovers that his friend Yinka is just as passionate about jollof rice. So- whose rice is best?

‘My Rice is Best’ is an absolute delight! Full of humour, it is perfect for sharing and starting discussions.

Everyone has a favourite food, but this story shows the wonderful versatility of this staple and how it can be enjoyed by different people in different ways, allowing readers to explore cultural diversity. Used in schools, it would be perfect for starting discussions about food, the origin of various dishes, favourite dishes the children enjoy at home…the possibilities are endless! Children might enjoy creating their own stories based on this one, but changing the food- to potatoes, for example, or beans! Exploring the similarities and differences between different families, different cultures, different traditions could lead to food tasting sessions (obviously paying attention to allergies etc!) or community events, embracing new cuisines.

Although Shane and Yinka squabble over which rice is best, when things go wrong, Yinka and the others are all ready to share with Shane, making sure he has plenty of lunch to eat. Friendship is more important than food! The book also captures the close relationship between Shane and his mum as she shares the secret of their special family recipe.

The illustrations are wonderful. Bold, bright and engaging, they add much to the humour and joy of the story. A must have for every class and home!

My Rice is Best

Selina Brown, illustrated by Maxwell A. Oginni

Puffin ISBN: 978-0241635537

Published 8th May 2025