The Word Collector

Collectors collect all sorts of things things: coins, stamps, even art. However, Jerome is a collector of words. He collects the words he hears, sees and reads. Words stand out to him, jump out at him and even jump off the page. His collection contains short words, two-syllable treats and multisyllabic words that sound like songs. Some words are wonderful to speak aloud and others are fascinating because they suit their meaning. Jerome would fill his scrapbooks with words such as 'bellow', 'ascend' and 'shimmer'.

One day whilst transporting his word journals, an accident jumbles his words together and Jerome discovers that they sound wonderful when placed next to each other.  He begins to use the  words to write poems and songs; he finds that the best words are the simplest ones- words such as ‘thank you’, ‘I’m sorry’ and ‘I understand’. Jerome continues to collect more and more words and on a breezy afternoon, he is determined to share his words with as many people as possible and empties his collection into the wind.

Jerome realises that it isn’t just the beauty of the words, but their power, when shared with others, that is important. Author, Peter H. Reynolds’ words at the end of the book illustrate this perfectly, “Reach for your own words, tell the world who you are and how you make it better.”

‘The Word Collector’ is an inspiring read for all logophiles (lovers of words), a charming collection of words and illustrations which will encourage readers to see the power of the words around them. This book is perfectly suited for sharing with children of all ages in the classroom and provides an excellent springboard for word work. Children may want to begin their own word collections, as Jerome did: sorting word collections into categories, arranging them into unusual groupings and investigating the power of simple words. Children may want to go on a word hunt looking for words they have heard, seen and read, collecting them in word journals. Word and phrase meanings could also be explored through developing dictionary and thesaurus skills. Word collecting may extend to investigating famous wordsmiths such as E.E. Cummings and William Shakespeare. Like Jerome, they could write poems and songs.

The book could also be a starting point for investigating the etymology of some words, words that have been adopted into English from other languages and the wealth of words which are created as the language evolves and develops.

Children could be encouraged to create 'Top Trump' style cards for their favourite words, using the different categories to explain their appeal and try to convince others that their favourite words are worthy of collection! 

Each of Peter H. Reynolds’ books have been created to inspire. His hope is to make, “Stories that matter, stories that move.”

The Word Collector  Peter H. Reynolds

Scholastic ‎ ISBN: 978-0702308383   

Playing from the Heart

From the author of 'The Dot', Playing from the Heart is a beautiful and poignant story about the power of music and of family love.

Too small to even reach the pedals, Raj was delighted by the sounds the piano made as he plunked the keys. Hearing his early attempts, his father supports Raj, hiring a piano teacher to nuture his talent.

However, his early love of and delight in making music fades as he becomes more and more skilled. Gradually, Raj leaves his piano playing behind and moves on until his father's request makes him 'play from the heart'.

Alongside the beautiful story are equally gorgeous illustrations. The soft, muted colours and hand-written font make the book something special. Peter H Reynold's unique way of viewing things is thought provoking- notes as zoo animals peering through bars...wanting to escape say so much about the story and the characters- inspiring!

Like all books by this talented man, Playing from the Heart is one not to miss.

Playing from the Heart Peter H Reynolds

Walker    ISBN: 978-1406368406

The Pear Affair

Penelope (Nell) Magnificent might be surrounded by a life of luxury, but it seems to her that they don’t even really like her. Constantly criticising her, ignoring her and even forgetting her, they seem to value the handbag she was named for more than they do her. Still, when they decide to go to Paris on a business trip, Nell surprises them by pleading to go with them. Paris is where Nell’s old au pair, Perrine or Pear as Nell affectionately calls her, lives and Nell is determined to find her because recently Pear has stopped writing to her.

Once in Paris, Nell sets off on her mission to locate Pear which leads her to explore Paris, makes friends and discover the underground world of the catacombs beneath the city. But there is another mystery to solve as a strange virus starts affecting the bakeries and patisseries of Paris.

Judith Eagle has captured Paris beautifully in this wonderful novel. Her attention to detail and vivid descriptions make the city come to life, both above and beneath ground level. And set against this beautiful backdrop is a very satisfying, pacy read which is full of action and excitement.

Nell is a fabulous character! Determined and independent, her loyalty and devotion to Pear enable her to face her fears and overcome the many challenges set in her way. As the story is set in the 60s, there are no mobile phones for her to rely on and she and her new friends have to rely on their own resourcefulness in the face of danger and adversity.

There are many threads to this story, all gathering to a final solution which is satisfying and unexpected. Each mystery merges with the other as Nell and her friends realise just what is going on and decide to take action to prevent it.

‘The Pear Affair’ is a real must read. The storytelling, the description, the characters… all elements combine to make this a stunning story. I hope there will be more adventures for Nell and her friends very soon!

The Pear Affair Judith Eagle

Faber and Faber ISBN: 978-0571346851

The Rules

Amber is used to hiding. Having been trained by her father- a prepper- to survive any eventuality, she is now using these skills to escape from him and his claustrophobic and increasingly frightening set of rules. Now placed at boarding school after spells in foster homes, when Julie, her social worker, excitedly tells her they have located her father and have a letter for her from him, Amber knows it’s time to go on the run. But how can she stay ahead of the person who taught her everything she knows?

Gripping from the first page, ‘The Rules’ tells Amber’s story by alternating between the past and the present. The story is permeated with a sense of menace as the reader gains a greater understanding of what ‘the rules’ mean to Amber, building the tension as she tries desperately to stay safe.

The ending is masterful- and essential that it is not spoilt by any hints or careless comments. Suffice it to say, this is a book not to be missed with compelling characters and an edge-of-the-seat story line.

A tense, challenging read, ‘The Rules’ is one not to miss.

The Rules Tracy Darnton

Stripes ISBN: 978-1788952149

A Cat Called Waverley

Born in a park, little kitten, Waverley, makes lots of friends who he visits every day, but his best friend is Donald. One day, Donald goes far, far away, leaving Waverley behind. Both of their lives change and Waverley waits patiently at the station for Donald to return- Platform 2 of Waverley Station which is how he gets his name. As time passes, other humans are kind to Waverley, but he misses his friend more and more until one day, the two are reunited at last.

In ‘A Cat Called Waverley’, Debi Gliori has created a truly special and beautiful picture book. Set in Edinburgh, the book is about a real homeless war veteran, Darren Greenfield, who used to sit on the pavement at the top of Waverley Steps. Perfect for starting discussions about homelessness and encouraging empathy for homeless people, Darren’s story has been carefully woven into a fictional tale which can be shared with children of all ages.

As the tale of Waverley faithfully waiting for his missing human is told (reminiscent of that other faithful Edinburgh animal, Greyfriar’s Bobby), the illustrations show the reader what is happening to Darren as he faces the horrors of war. There is also a stark contrast drawn between the attention and care given to Waverley by passers-by and the lone figure of Darren, ignored by those busy with their lives.

The illustrations are gorgeous. Waverley’s ginger fur is echoed by Donald’s auburn hair, vividly standing out against the black and white drawings, reinforcing the strong link between the two- and emphasising how the warmth and love of Waverley reaches through the darkness to Darren. It is beautiful!

Powerful and poignant, ‘A Cat Called Waverley’ is one not to miss.

A Cat Called Waverley Debi Gliori

Otter-Barry Books ISBN: 978-1913074630

Blue Penguin

Blue Penguin was born far away in the south. Although surrounded by other penguins, he was different. He did all the same things as the others, but still all they could see was the fact that he was different.

"But you're not like us," said the other penguins and they wandered away.

Left all alone,  Blue Penguin sees a white whale in his dreams who saves him from his loneliness. He makes up a song about the whale which he sings across the ocean...

Another penguin came to listen to his song and when they sing together, the other penguins come to listen- with the white whale, called by Blue Penguin's song. However,  Blue Penguin no longer needed whale to take him away as he now had new friends- and a new song to sing.

Beautifully told with gorgeous illustrations, this is a special story about belonging and finding that friend-in-need.

Petr Horacek's amazing artwork perfectly complements the story. Vibrant blues and greens stand out sharply against the shades of white, creating the snow and ice. There is such a textured feel to the landscape with frost patterns and snow flurries adding to the atmosphere.

This book is perfect for starting discussions about difference, how we treat others and how to create a 'song of friendship' for ourselves.

Blue Penguin Petr Horacek

Walker Books   ISBN: 978-1406358285

Starboard

Kirsten’s quest to find her father a girlfriend led to her becoming a reality TV star. However, after four years of living in the public eye, she is not happy with how her life is turning out. When on a school trip to the SS Great Britain, Kirsten suddenly finds herself captain of the ship and on an amazing journey of discovery.

There are some books which you just have to read- and this is one of them! I loved ‘Bloom’ - and ‘Starboard’ is even better. It is without doubt one of the most original stories and absorbing stories I’ve read- and one I can’t wait to share.

The book is full of amazing characters- not least of which is the SS Great Britain herself. The book cleverly pieces together the story of this amazing ship and the people who were involved with her. The book is rich with fabulous descriptions, making me want to explore her again! Perhaps soon…

In seeking to uncover the Great Britain’s secrets, Kirsten learns much about herself and is forced to reflect on her own life and what truly makes her happy. Her close relationship with her father (a square!) is wonderful to read about whilst the manipulations and machinations of the TV people form a stark contrast.

The book is a joy from start to finish with so much to love and enjoy along the way, including Flavia Sorrentino’s wonderful illustrations. It is impossible to do it justice- everyone needs to read it. It offers history, adventure, magic and a touch of mayhem with warmth and wisdom. I cannot recommend it highly enough.

Starboard Nicola Skinner, illustrated by Flavia Sorrentino

Harper Collins ISBN: 978-0008422400

Wee? It Wasn’t Me!

Lenny the lemur is on holiday, enjoying Alaska, when he slips in something yellow and smelly! Determined to discover the perpetrator of the puddle, he interrogates all the creatures he finds, learning much about their urinary habits, until he finally locates the culprit.

This second adventure for Lenny is every bit as entertaining as the first- and there is so much to learn. Who knew there were so many ways to wee in the wild? As Lenny quizzes each creature, the reader learns about the important role this very basic function performs for each animal in addition to getting rid of waste products. Additional information, with photos of each creature, is included at the end of the book, showing the reader that, although it’s a funny story, it is also full of facts!

And it is a funny story! It reminds me of ‘The Little Mole Who Knew It Was None of His Business’- a huge bedtime favourite when my son was small, with added benefits! Lenny is delightful with such an amazing array of expressions, cleverly captured by Nicola O’Byrne’s wonderful illustrations. The ending is just perfect and sure to have children -and adults- giggling with glee. ‘Wee? It Wasn’t Me?’ is sure to be every bit as popular as Lenny’s first adventure, ‘Poo! Is That You?’

In this adventure, well-travelled Lenny is on holiday in South America when his nose is assailed by an awful smell. Determined to locate the source, he sets off to locate its source so he can return to snoozing in the sun. He interrogates a whole array of creatures that he meets before turning his eyes towards the reader! Once again, the story is full of both humour and fact with photos and further information at the end.

These books offer a wonderful way into engaging children with the science curriculum, learning about animals (including humans). From the importance of hygiene to functions of the digestive system to describing the ways in which nutrients and water are transported, there is plenty to learn in these pages! The stories also introduce a range of animals found in each region- the perfect starting point for exploring further.

I wonder where Lenny the lemur will go for his next adventure- and what he will investigate whilst he is there! Clare has created activities for her books which will be available on her website.

Wee? It Wasn’t Me! Clare Helen Welsh, illustrated by Nicola O’Byrne

Macmillan ISBN: 978-1529030495

You can read my review of ‘Slime? It’s Not Mine!’ in the reviews section of the website.

Last Stop on Market Street

After church, CJ and his nana don't go home. They take the bus to Market Street where they volunteer at a soup kitchen and CJ wonders why they don't have a car. He watches as lots of people get on and off the bus, leaving him full of questions and his nana answers each with patience, love and wisdom until they reach their final destination. 

This is quite simply a beautiful book. What appears to be a straightforward story offers so much to think about and discuss as CJ's nana finds beauty in everyone and values things that others might not. The warmth of the relationship between the two is wonderful. Her guidance helps CJ to appreciate all the people in his community and he comes to see the journey as an opportunity to meet new people and enjoy himself.

In the end, CJ is glad he made the journey with her to help at the soup kitchen, no longer feeling sorry for himself because he has to give up his Sunday afternoon whilst his friends are free to enjoy themselves however they please. The book offers no ‘preachy’ message about helping others- it is just there at the heart of the story.

The illustrations are fabulous. Full of warm colours, there are many little details to notice and enjoy alongside the text, offering plenty of opportunities for readers to develop their own ideas about different characters.

We could all do with regularly reading ‘Last Stop on Market Street’ and taking a moment to step back and appreciate the little things in life, valuing what we have and appreciating others.

Last Stop on Market Street Matt de la Pena, illustrated by Christian Robinson

Penguin ISBN: 978-0399257742

The Perfect Fit

Triangle loves rolling with the circles, playing with the squares and having fun with the hexagons. But wherever she goes, Triangle feels like she doesn’t fit. After much searching, she eventually finds those just like herself. Together, they have a wonderful time, but she quickly realises that she misses…everyone else! Soon, all the shapes are having a brilliant time together. They might not all be exactly the same, but they can still be the best of friends.

‘The Perfect Fit’ is a delightful story, perfect for sharing with KS1 and EYFS children, but also worth reading to, and using to initiate discussions with, older children. The instant visual appeal of the story makes it so easy to relate to and children could readily create their own shape characters to explore how they are feeling or as a starting point for writing their own stories or poems. The illustrations beautifully personify the different individuals and Triangle has endearing freckles which add to her character- and make her easy to spot amid the other yellow triangles!

The story celebrates difference, showing that it’s not only OK to be different, but that difference can be a good thing, bringing new ideas and new perspectives. The use of shapes is a gift to teachers as there are so many mathematical links and colour links which can be made whilst enjoying the story.

A wonderful story for exploring difference and the fun of fitting in- or not, ‘The Perfect Fit’ is just joyous!

The Perfect Fit Naomi Jones, illustrated by James Jones

OUP ISBN: 978-0192774613

Strangeworlds Travel Agency

The Strangeworlds Travel Agency

Flick has recently moved to a new house in Little Wyverns with her parents and new baby brother, Freddy. Whilst exploring the village, she comes across a tiny, squashed-looking shop called The Strangeworlds Travel Agency. She finds herself invited to become a member of The Strangeworlds Society and is amazed to discover that each of the suitcases on display in the shop leads to another world. With Jonathan Mercator, Head Custodian, Flick is able to use the cases to explore the multiverse. But everything is not quite as it seems…

I loved this book so much! The idea of travelling through suitcases to lots of different worlds is so appealing and the story is fresh and exciting! Lapinski’s world building is second to none and each location fizzes with life and detail. There is much still to learn about this multiverse and its inhabitants and hopefully, there will be more adventures for Flick as she explores different worlds and Jonathan continues his search for his father.

Flick and Jonathan are wonderful characters- very different, but each well rounded. Jonathan neglects to tell Flick the whole truth, leading to trouble, but friendship wins through in the end and these two make a team to be reckoned with. Nicc is another appealing character, resilient and daring.

The Strangeworlds Travel Agency is an excellent read, full of magic and adventure. This is a must read to share with my class as soon as I can. Top marks for this one!

The Strangeworlds Travel Agency: The Edge of the Ocean

When an urgent summons arrives from the world of The Break, Flick and Jonathan leap into action- and the right suitcase- and go to offer assistance. Pirate Queen Nife, her crew and all the other people and creatures who live there are in grave danger as their world is shrinking. Somehow, Jonathan and Flick must find a way to sail ships and squeeze giant mer-people through a suitcase to save them- before it’s too late.

Here at JAB HQ, we adored the first book in this series so much and have thoroughly enjoyed introducing our classes to this amazing world and its characters. ‘The Edge of the World’ is no disappointment, being every bit as exciting and magical as the first.

Flick is now a fully-fledged Strangeworlds Travel Agency member and comes into her own in this adventure, taking the lead as Jonathan battles with his emotions after some news about his father. Her initial distrust and jealousy of Avery, Jonathan’s cousin, who joins them on this adventure, quickly develops beyond bickering and together, the three make a formidable team. Jonathan’s duel with Captain Burnish is wonderful, adding humour as well as action.

A sense of impending danger is maintained throughout this story, keeping a tight feeling of suspense and tension. It is not clear whether they will be able to save all the inhabitants of this world and Flick experiences real personal conflict about the possibility of leaving some behind. It is wonderful to see her triumph. The importance of friendship, family and support is woven through the story, but is so poignant when Flick needs it most.

The concept of the travel agency and its suitcases is an absolute gift to teachers looking to inspire children to write. It offers the perfect framework for a voyage and return story where the most magical and creative worlds can be invented while writing additional adventures. Children (and adults!) love these stories and the worlds they inhabit!

This second visit to The Strangeworlds Travel Agency, ‘The Edge of the Ocean’, is every bit as enjoyable as the first, offering a compelling, exciting adventure. Can’t wait for the next one!

You can read my review of ‘The Secrets of the Stormforest’ in the main reviews section.

The Missing Bookshop

Milly never misses a story time at Minty's Bookshop. The owner, Mrs Minty, might be a bit creaky, but she knows about every book in the world and can always find something for Milly to read. Like Mrs Minty, the bookshop is showing signs of age and Milly worries that it might have to shut. To her horror, she arrives one day to find Minty's Bookshop closed and soon it is for sale. But Milly comes up with a plan. Can she save the bookshop?

This is a delightful story about the importance of stories – and the shops that sell them. The value of Mrs Minty and her shop to the local community who no doubt take her for granted until faced with her loss reminds us all of the independent bookshops we all know and love and the booksellers whose invaluable advice keeps us returning- something to discuss with children in terms of local libraries as well as bookshops!. Milly is a sweet little girl with a warm caring nature who is a pleasure to read about.

Full of lovely colour illustrations, 'The Missing Bookshop' is a heart warming story, perfect for reading aloud and sharing.

The Missing Bookshop Katie Clapham, illustrated by Kirsti Beautyman

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1788950428

Agent Zaiba Investigates: The Missing Diamonds

Zaiba is enjoying her cousin, Samirah’s Mehndi party at The Royal Star Hotel with her family and friends around her. She is also enjoying the opportunity to hone her detecting skills with the help of her little brother, Ali and her best friend, Poppy. Things get even more exciting when a mystery celebrity arrives at the hotel and the trio decide to use their sleuthing skills to uncover their identity. When the celebrity’s dog and diamonds go missing, there is real detecting to be done…

Set against the background of the traditions of the Mehndi party, this is an excellent detective story with plenty of colour and mystery. The children are a wonderful bunch, each bringing their strengths to the detecting team. Zaiba is a brave, determined and kind child whose ambition is to be like Eden Lockett, her favourite fictional detective, and live up to the memory of her Ammi- her mother- whose handwritten annotations to the stories make Zaiba feel connected to her. Ali is bright and full of life and Poppy bubbles with fun and enthusiasm.

The story is littered with clues to follow, making it fun to read and perfect those who love a mystery. A secret staircase, a labyrinth, overheard conversations… all lead to our detectives solving the mystery- and still being able to enjoy the party! It’s a fabulous read with plenty of lovely illustrations throughout.

‘Agent Zaiba Investigates: The Missing Diamonds’ is a vibrant, fun read, full of family love and friendship as well as offering a good mystery to solve. Can’t wait to read her next adventure!

Agent Zaiba Investigates: The Missing Diamonds

Annabelle Sami, illustrated by Daniela Sosa

Stripes ISBN: 978-1788952064

Pizazz and Pizazz vs the New Kid

It’s not easy being a superhero- particularly when your superpower is SO embarrassing. Having to wear the same outfit all the time and not being able to miss school despite having been up all night fighting baddies also make the whole ‘super’ thing a bit of a nuisance. Pizazz’s parents are super-busy and her sister super-annoying, but her aunty Blaze is great for good advice and support.

Having to move and start a new school is also tricky. Her little sister, Red, who is super at everything, is thriving and finds making new friends easy, but not so Pizazz. Red ends up on the school council; Pizazz is given the role of eco-monitor. But when the local park is threatened, Pizazz has a chance to be super…even if it means everyone finding out about her incredibly embarrassing super power!

Sophy Henn has a wonderful way of bringing her characters vividly to life through text and through illustration. For all her super powers, Pizazz is so easy to relate to, overcoming very un-super issues like changing schools, making new friends, trying to fit in and feeling somewhat less super than the rest of your family. The comic strip sections of the story add much to the story in terms of action and fun, making the book doubly appealing to children who enjoy comic book action as well as a great book.

The story is permeated by the gentle humour Sophy is so well known for, but ‘Pizazz’ also has strong messages about the importance of community action and protecting the environment. Friendship, family and self belief are also important factors in the story which would make an excellent read aloud!

Sophy Henn’s super power is writing incredibly accessible, entertaining and brilliantly illustrated books and ‘Pizazz’ is no exception!

Pizazz Sophy Henn

Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1471193989

Pizazz is back! When a new kid called Jett starts at school, Pizazz decides to befriend her as not only does Pizazz know what it’s like to be new somewhere, but Jett is a super. Things go from bad to worse when leader of The Populars, Serena, gets involved and decides there should be a ‘super-off’! What could possibly go wrong?

I love Pizazz. It is so easy to identify with this well intentioned, big hearted, self conscious, clumsy superhero. Constantly comparing herself to others and finding herself wanting, Pizazz had hoped to be Jett’s buddy and save her from the scorn and ridicule frequently heaped on Pizazz by The Populars. Being rejected by a fellow super makes her doubt herself even more and Pizazz feels she has no choice but to take up the super challenge even when she feels sure she will fail.

Ultimately, however, good sense triumphs and Pizazz finally realises that the Serenas of this world can only hurt us if we let them. Sophy’s reassuring and empowering message is bundled up in plenty of eye-rolling, lots of action and heaps of humour, but it shines through loud and clear for anyone who might need to hear it.

Sophy also allows the reader to see things from Jett’s point of view as Pizazz is offered words of advice from her Aunty Blaze, Uncle Titanoooooo (yes, it does have that many ‘o’s!) and her friends. The comic strip sections add so much to the story, making it pacey and accessible and Sophy’s illustrations are always a joy.

I cannot recommend these books highly enough! Sophy Henn truly is ‘Super Sophy’ and hopefully, there will be many adventures for Pizazz to come!

Pizazz vs the New Kid Sophy Henn

Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1471194153

Wild

The wild wolves tease brothers Wolfie and Wilfie for not being growly or scowly, scary or snarly enough. They do not want to be pressured into following the pack, but want to stay true to themselves. When the pack pounces on Granny and her basket of pies, the brothers bravely come to her rescue and proudly stand up for what they believe in.

Perfect for starting conversations about peer pressure, ‘Wild’ shows how dangerous a ‘pack’ mentality can be. The ‘wild’ wolves swoop in on those who are different, mocking them and intimidating them. Wolfie and Wilfie’s fear is clearly shown as they are surrounded by the bigger, intimidating wolves, demanding empathy. The illustrations offer a brilliant starting point for using role play techniques for exploring the feelings of the brothers, but also for those members of the pack who are not as comfortable with what is going on. Discussions exploring strategies to use at these times could then follow, with younger children offering Wolfie and Wilfie advice.

The story also challenges the idea that the wild wolves can take whatever they want, whenever they want it and shows that Wofie and Wilfie deserve their pieces having behaved and helped by collecting the berries. Another much needed message!

Perfect for starting discussions and challenging thinking, ‘Wild’ is an empowering story about staying true to yourself.

Wild Annette Demetriou and Dawn White

illustrated by Ryan Sonderegger

Owlet Press ISBN: 978-1913339050