The House of Hidden Wonders

Zinnie lives with her sisters in Edinburgh’s murky underworld. Having experienced life in an orphanage, she is determined to keep them together and free from institutions, doing whatever she can to feed them. One way she has found of earning money is working for Mr Conan Doyle who pays her to do jobs for him. When he asks her to observe a seance, Zinnie finds herself caught up in a mystery involving bodies with missing ears, ghosts and the mysterious House of Hidden Wonders and its sinister owner, MacDuff.

This is such a fabulous read. Richly atmospheric, Victorian Edinburgh is the perfect setting for the story and Sharon Gosling has obviously invested a great deal of time researching locations such as Mary King’s Close to add colour and detail to the story. Her historical note at the back of the book adds further information about this and other details included. Similarly, the inclusion of real historical figures, Arthur Conan Doyle and Dr Jex-Blake, add to the interest and appeal. Hints at Conan Doyle’s writing might lead children to discover some of his stories and the struggles faced by Dr Jex-Blake as a female doctor could start discussions about the hardships women have had to overcome through the years. Lady Sarah’s inspirational attitude to life and her insatiable attitude for adventure and exploration are wonderful and again, the attitudes to women and their abilities are exposed through the reactions of some of the other characters towards her.

Zinnie is a fabulous character; fiercely loyal and protective of Nell and Sadie, the ‘sisters’ she has adopted from the streets, her tenacity and determination to give them security is truly touching. Sadie and Nell are equally well developed character. Sadie’s flair with herbs and natural remedies clearly shows how the poor could not afford medicines and how suspicion about women healers still lingered. Her desire to help and heal shine through, particularly when trying to save Nell, the youngest of this little family.

The plot is full of twists and excitement with touches of the macabre. There is so much to comment on and praise- yet this might ruin the story for others and I would hate to do that!

‘The House of Hidden Wonders’ is a brilliant read, full of mystery, action and adventure with some scary bits thrown into the mix. A must read!

The House of Hidden Wonders Sharon Gosling

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1788951906

Danny Chung Does NOT Do Maths

Danny loves art and is happiest when drawing. However, his parents are keen for him to focus on subjects which ‘have a purpose’- like maths. There is also an assumption amongst his peers that being Chinese he will naturally be good at maths. When Danny’s parents tell him that they have a surprise for him, the last thing he is expecting is that his grandmother will be coming from China to live with them- and will be sharing his room! With a maths project to complete, his parents’ expectation that he will spend time with his grandmother and friendship problems, it feels like nothing is going right…

This is such a warm, wonderful story. Infused with gentle humour and keen observations, the story exposes stereotypical ideas and prejudice in a way in which children can easily understand. Expected to follow ‘the Chinese way’ by his family, Danny is also up against the waspish and competitive comments of Auntie Yee (not a blood relation, but his mother’s only Chinese friend) and constant comparison with her daughter, Amelia.

The developing relationship between Danny and Nai Nai is very much the heart of this story. He is initially horrified at having to share his tiny room with a snoring little old lady who steals the top bed of his new bunk bed and who speaks a dialect of Mandarin Chinese which he cannot understand and vents his frustration through his art work, creating a cartoon called Ant Gran. Gradually, however, a deep bond forms between the two and Danny finds his relationship with his parents also becomes easier. Nai Nai values his artistic talent and shows him how maths can be found in art and nature, giving him an idea for his school project. It is lovely to see the grandparent/ grandchild relationship valued in this way.

Rich in cultural detail, ‘Dany Chung Does NOT Do Maths’ is an essential addition to any library or book corner.

Danny Chung Does NOT Do Maths Masie Chan, illustrated by Anh Cao

Piccadilly Press ISBN: ‎ 978-1800780019

Arlo The Lion Who Couldn’t Sleep

Arlo the lion just can’t get to sleep, no matter how hard he tries. He can’t get comfortable…it’s too hot…or too cold… Exhausted, he meets Owl who teaches him a little song to help him relax and settle into a deep sleep. Delighted that it works, Arlo can’t wait to share his new friend’s advice.

This is such a beautiful, gentle story, perfect for snuggling up with and making part of a bedtime routine. Owl’s song which is full of advice for how to settle into a calm state ready for sleep is repeated throughout the story. It’s soothing rhythm is perfect for encouraging little ones to relax and follow Arlo’s example as he drifts off for a good night’s rest.

The illustrations are simply stunning. Using calming colours, Arlo’s exhaustion shows in every line of the early pictures and the reader can clearly see how he craves sleep from his drooping tail to his sad eyes. This contrasts perfectly with the jaunty air and energy he displays after his rest, offering a very positive message about the benefits of a good night’s rest. Each spread is worthy of being framed and displayed.

Perfect for creating a positive bedtime routine, ‘Arlo the Lion Who Couldn’t Sleep’ is full of gorgeous illustrations and soothing words.

Arlo the Lion Who Couldn’t Sleep Catherine Rayner

Macmillan ISBN: 978-1509804207

Fletcher and the Rainbow

When Fletcher sees a rainbow, he wants to help it shine forever. As he hurries through the woods, looking for the rainbow’s end, his friends help him, but still the colours fade until even the last scrap of colour has gone. Initially saddened, Fletcher remembers all the wonderful colours he has seen on his way through the woods and makes an autumn rainbow with his friends.

The beauty of this series is how perfectly each book highlights the simple pleasures and experiences of little children. Rainbows are a constant source of fascination and wonder and this book gently introduces how they are formed as well as exploring the creatures and colours of autumn. The story offers a brilliant starting point for going on a nature hunt for colourful objects with which to create their own rainbows or to find out about woodland creatures.

The illustrations are just lovely. The soft colours perfectly capture scene after scene as Fletcher makes his way through the woodland, making each spread a complete joy. Perfect for enjoying at home or at school, Fletcher makes a much loved addition to any book corner.

Fletcher and the Rainbow Julia Rawlinson, illustrated by Tiphanie Beeke

Graffeg ISBN: 978-1914079245

Fletcher and the Caterpillar

Fletcher finds a new friend- a caterpillar- who enjoys munching his way through leaves. Fletcher and the other animals try hard to include him in their games, but Caterpillar just wants to munch on green leaves and grass. When Caterpillar stops munching, Fletcher becomes worried. How can he help his new friend?

I had the great pleasure of joining the launch for this lovely book. Fletcher is the most endearing little fox, full of curiosity and wonder as he explores the world around him. He tries to include Caterpillar in all his games, but soon realises that Caterpillar is just happy to munch whilst Fletcher enjoys himself in other ways. The story beautifully shows how friends can enjoy different activities and yet maintain the best of friendships, offering each other quiet, mutual support and understanding.

Their quiet companionship is only ruffled by Fletcher’s concern when Caterpillar stops munching. His care for his friend continues and his patient concern is rewarded when Butterfly emerges from his chrysalis in all his beauty. Fletcher’s joy in nature reflects the fascination little ones have for the natural world and they will be able to relate to his activities, finding out more about caterpillars as they read his story.

The illustrations are just lovely. Soft watercolours glow with the colours of spring, full of flowers and rich green leaves. Little Caterpillar looks as contented as can be as he munches through leaf after leaf and there is so much to explore and discuss on each spread.

A delightful, gentle story exploring friendship and the joys of nature, ‘Fletcher and the Caterpillar’ is sure to become a firm favourite.

Fletcher and the Caterpillar Julia Rawlinson, illustrated by Tiphanie Beeke

Graffeg ISBN: 978-1913733933

Moonchild: Voyage of the Lost and Found

Twelve year old, Amira has spent her life on a dhow, Tigerheart. with her two mothers and her best friend, Nimur, a jinni in cat form. When a storm damages Tigerheart, Amira is excited for the chance to explore the souk and help sell the potions her sea-witch mothers brew. On land, she meets Leo, who also has a dinni, a fish called Semek and learns that, although magic has always been part of her life, many are scared of it. When a mysterious storm begins and Namur goes missing, Amira sets off on a voyage of discovery.

Beautifully constructed, Amira’s world is full of detail, colour and life. Her home on the dhow with her mothers, the souk and streets of Failaka, each place she visits on her voyage are all lovingly described and full of sights, smells, sounds- details that really bring them to life. It is an exotic world, layered with stories, secrets and magic, inspired by the tales of the Arabian Nights.

The characters are equally well developed with relationships and emotions at the heart of the story. The importance of recognising and understanding feelings rather than quashing or denying them is skilfully managed and for all the magic, each character is very ‘real’. It is refreshing to read a story for this age group in which periods are openly discussed.

‘Moonchild: Voyage of the Lost and Found’ is an excellent read, full of action and adventure and with the promise of more to come in future stories.

Moonchild: Voyage of the Lost and Found Aisha Bushby, illustrated by Rachel Dean

Egmont ISBN: 978-1405293211

Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.

I am Every Good Thing

Bursting with positivity, ‘I Am Every Good Thing’ is a joyful declaration of potential and possibility. Full of metaphors, it is a book which encourages its readers to celebrate every positive thing about themselves and could easily be the inspiration for some fabulous writing about all the facets and foibles which make us each unique.

Through the text, children learn they can be curious, brave, successful, loving, polite and vulnerable. The illustrations are of black boys shown at work and at play, with family and friends, thoughtful and alone, making a very positive and affirming statement. However, this is a text which should be shared with all everyone. It is a book which all can see themselves reflected and feel valued whilst offering plenty to reflect on and discuss.

Although I am something like a superhero, every now and then, I am afraid

I am not what they might call me, and I will not answer to any name that is not my own.

I am what I say I am.

And without a shadow of a doubt, I am worthy to be loved.

What a fabulous, unequivocal message to be sharing. ‘I am Every Good Thing’ is an essential addition to every bookshelf, everywhere.

I am Every Good Thing Derrick Barnes, illustrated by Gordon C James

Farshore ISBN: 978-0755502707

Daydreams and Jellybeans: Poems to Read Aloud

This is a wonderful new collection of poems by Alex Wharton. There really is something for everyone here, each full of closely observed details and beautifully captured emotions.

‘Weeping Willow’ is one of these. The gentle flow of writing captures the majesty and elegance of these trees perfectly. Part of the magic of an excellent poem is its ability to connect you to moments and memories and this instantly took me back to the weeping willow in my grandparents’ garden whose ‘slow waterfall of leaves’ I used to hide beneath and feel completely safe and calm- usually with a good book.

Other poems are full of fun, keenly exploring the everyday -’Dear Brother’, ‘Jellybean’, ‘Kingfisher’- wonderful for reading aloud and performing. And then there are others- ‘Man in Town’, ‘Lost Smile’, ‘Midnight Wish’, ‘Sometimes’ ‘Trapper Boy’- beautiful and poignant which make you pause and think.

Each of these poems is deserving of mention and there are so many which could be used in school to inspire as well as to be enjoyed. Poems written by children who won a poetry competition are also included at the end of the book- offering even more inspiration for aspiring poets of the future. There are plenty of appealing illustrations throughout the collection by Katy Riddell.

In the foreword, Philip Gross writes, ‘These poems do what all good poems do. They get inside you.’ Wise words- and so true of this amazing collection.

Inspiring, thoughtful, poignant and fun, ‘Daydreams and Jellybeans’ is a stunning collection of poems where words truly weave their magic.

Daydreams and Jellybeans Alex Wharton, illustrated by Katy Riddell

Firefly ISBN: 978-1913102432

Cogheart

What an adventure! Full of action and secrets waiting to be uncovered, this is a book you will want to read in one go!

When Lily's inventor father disappears in his airship, Dragonfly, she is determined to find him. Locked in her room by the awful housekeeper, Madame Verdigris, Lily escapes with the help of Robert, the clock maker's son and her mechanical fox, Malkin. Chased by silver-eyed men who will destroy anything that gets in their way, they embark on an amazing adventure which takes them to London. 

Once the story gets going, there is no stopping it and the reader finds themself swept along in the adventure. The book is full of very engaging characters: Lily is feisty and head strong whilst Robert is more reserved, but equally brave. The mechanicals are wonderful- Mrs Rust is my favourite!

Gripping twists will keep you turning the pages to the very end. I'm delighted to see that there will be a sequel, 'Moonlocket', next year. 

Cogheart    

Peter Bunzl, illustrated by Becca Stadtlander

Usborne    ISBN: 978-1474915007

Mort the Meek and the Ravens’ Revenge

Brutalia is ‘an island of terrifying ugliness’, ruled by the most brutal king and queen. Its people constantly fight and struggle in complete poverty whilst ravens circle overhead and the royals live in the lap of luxury. Mort isn’t like the other islanders. As the only member of Brutalia’s Pacifist Society, he is determined to live peacefully. But when he finds himself appointed Royal Executioner by the Queen, Mort’s first job is to execute Weed Millet, the baker’s son- and Mort’s best friend. Can Mort the Meek become Mort the Brute? Or can he keep his principles, save his friend…and live to see another day?

Deliciously dark and gloriously gruesome, this very tongue-in-cheek tale is just wonderful. From the chorus of joke telling ravens who chip in at the beginning of every chapter to the detailed landscape of Brutalia and its inhabitants, there is so much to entertain and be enjoyed in this story.

When his uncle, Bob the Brute, Royal Executioner of Brutalia dies just as he is about to announce the method of execution he has chosen for Weed, Mort is unwillingly elevated to the role and starts on a mission to save both his friend and himself. He is a wonderful character, nobly trying to live a peaceful life amid the chaos and casual violence surrounding him, but he also worries that he might just be a coward. Ultimately, a good heart, lots of courage and strong friendships see him through.

The story is full of wonderful characters- with some wonderful names. Ono Assunder, Body Lugger, from Dead Man’s Island, is a fantastic friend and ally. Malc Clam, the Queen’s personal bodyguard, embodies much of what is wrong with Brutalia and the Queen herself, fickle and devious, capriciously rules her kingdom with fear. Each sits perfectly in this well crafted world, brilliantly captured by George Ermos’s wonderful illustrations.

Despite its supposedly dark nature, the story bursts with humour. Mort’s twin siblings, Gosh and Gee, are model citizens of Brutalia in that they are constantly having great fun fighting and trying to involve their brother in their skirmishes. The ravens crack the most appalling jokes as they watch events unfold and Mort has to face a series of bizarre situations as he tries to navigate his way through the dangers and dilemmas of his life. A second adventure, ‘Mort the Meek The Monstrous Quest’ is on its way- and the sneak preview at the end of the first book promises that it will be every bit as enjoyable.

A fabulously funny and quirky tale, ‘Mort the Meek and the Raven’s Revenge’ is a rip-roaring read!

Mort the Meek and the Raven’s Revenge

Rachel Delahaye, illustrated by George Ermos

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1788953146

Rhinocorn Rules!

Ron is a rhino, but he is not happy living by rhino rules. Unlike the others, he loves art, music, laughter and having fun. One day, he decides to get creative with dust, berries and leaves, transforming himself into a rhinocorn. The other animals think he looks wonderful and enjoy getting to know him. The other rhinos, however, are not amused and band together to tell Ron to follow the rules. Supported by his new friends, Ron tears up the rule book and creates three much better rules for everyone to follow!

This lovely new story, Matt Carr offers a clear message about being an individual and being proud of yourself! Ron doesn’t want to conform to the way rhinos have always done things and so bravely takes a step that enables him to befriend the other creatures and explore his creativity. A joyful message for everyone to share!

The illustrations are everything we might expect of Matt Carr- bold, bright and beautiful! There is much to discuss and enjoy in these pages and a ‘Did you rhi-know?’ page at the end adds some facts about these amazing creatures.

A positive tale about being who you want to be, ‘Rhinocorn Rules'!’ is a brilliant book for sharing. I’m going to be Ron for WBD next year!

Rhinocorn Rules! Matt Carr

Egmont ISBN: 978- 1405296885

Rocket Mole

Armstrong the star-nosed mole is fed up of living underground. When he decides to go to the moon, his friends, although puzzled, are impressed by his actions as he builds a rocket and launches off into space. However, Armstrong quickly realises that there is much about the life he has left behind which he misses. When he returns, can he find a way to combine his desire for adventure and exploration with the companionship of his friends?

Perfectly timed for the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing, ‘Rocketmole’ is a wonderful story about dreaming big, pursuing ambitions and appreciating friendship! As usual with Matt’s books, there are plenty of jokes to be found in the story- both in the text and in the illustrations. Some of these are perfect for little ones and some offering the more mature amongst us a smile (gravi-tea, for example) and the chance to share the joke. Matt’s illustrative style is as appealing as ever with bold, block colours and his cartoon-style layouts full of details to enjoy.

With its powerful message about following your dreams and achieving your goals, ‘Rocketmole’ is also a story about friendship and valuing what you have. Only when on the moon, gazing back at the world he has left does Armstrong realise what he has left behind.

This is such a lovely story, full of potential for using with a class in many ways, starting with as an introduction to the first moon landing. Fact files about the moon and star-nosed moles at the end of the book also offer a starting point for further investigation and I would love to see children experimenting with different rockets to send Armstrong of to space in. I think that’s my next book group activity planned!

ROCKETMOLE Matt Carr

Scholastic ISBN: 978-1407187860

Spyder

Spyder (Codename 008) is a super special secret agent who lives in her penthouse apartment at Number 7, Fleming Road, the loft of the Webster's home. Determined to foil Bluebottle's plot to eat little Tom Webster's birthday cake, Spyder is called upon to save the day.

Small she may be, but nothing gets in Spyder's way. Full of determination, courage and tea, she is ready for anything. The story would make a brilliant starting point for discussions about these qualities and how important they can be. I could also see children creating their own secret agents, using what they know about various creepy crawlies! 

The illustrations are fabulous. Bold blocks of colour keep backgrounds simple and uncluttered and layout is comic-like which allows the story to move quickly. There is so much humour on every page, which will appeal to any adult reading the story for the links to the James Bond films as well as to children. Matt Carr allows us to see things from Spyder's perspective- looking down on a room, looking up a the threat of a giant foot- which really makes you feel part of the story. 

As well as being an entertaining story, 'Spyder' also contains information about spiders on the 'Spider Facts Website' at the end of the book. If any book can salvage the reputation of these amazing creatures, this must be it! 

Spyder     Matt Carr

Scholastic      ISBN: 978-1407172934

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