The Mask of Aribella

Aribella lives in Burano, one of Venice’s islands, with her father, a lacemaker, who has never recovered from the passing of her mother. On the eve of her birthday, Aribella is horrified that when angered by a local lad, fire erupts from her fingertips, causing the locals to call her a witch. When her name is put into the Lion’s Mouth, a carving on the wall of the Doge’s palace whose mouth is open per denontie segrete (for secret accusations) along with that of her father, Aribella is forced to flee, only to be rescued by a secret organisation of masked strangers. These are the Cannovacci, each with a special power and each devoted to protecting Venice. But evil is rising in Venice and Aribella soon finds that she and her new friends must fight to defend the city and the people that they love.

What a fabulous book! Venice is vividly portrayed in all its magical wonder, with beautiful descriptions of its canals, bridges and buildings forming a backdrop to the story. The colourful cottages of Burano are also featured, adding to the realism of the setting. Each Cannovacci has a mask which draws on the history of Venice where mask wearing is a tradition reaching back to the 12th century and whose streets are lined with shops and stalls selling row upon row of these colourful creations. Venice is brought to life for the reader…

The characters are convincing and appealing. Aribella is lacking on confidence and desperate to fit in, but rises to the challenge when needed, showing herself to be brave and loyal. Seffie is impulsive and mischievous, Fin earnest and book-loving and Theo steadfast and courageous. Qualities of friendship and compassion come shining through.

The plot is fast paced and compelling, full of magic and excitement, and reaches a satisfying conclusion. It also offers the interested reader a way in to discovering more about Venice and its customs and traditions. This would be a fabulous novel to use for exploring ‘a region in a European country’ to contrast with the others prescribed in the KS2 Geography programme of study as well as other elements of this curriculum. It also offers abundant writing and art opportunities and would make a perfect book for a book discussion group to enjoy.

Reading is magic. It can transport us into other worlds or allow us to understand our own better.

‘The Mask of Aribella’ is a wonderful read, full of magic and wonder. It was the winner of the North Somerset Teachers’ Book Awards Quality Fiction Category in 2020.

The Mask of Aribella Anna Hoghton

Chicken House ISBN: 978-1912626106

How to Be a Human

When Star Boy finds himself stranded on Earth, he takes shelter in the basement of a school boiler room. Intrigued by being able to actually observe human behaviour, he focuses on two in particular- Wes, who used to be home schooled, and Kiki, recently friendless after losing her place with the cool kids. As his curiosity grows, he becomes bolder and becomes part of their lives. Together, they learn what it really means to be human.

‘How to be a Human’ is an excellent read, offering humour and wisdom in equal measure! Both Kiki and Wes, like many other children, are struggling with life at secondary school. Initially, Kiki loved the change, swept up by the ‘cool’ group, she abandoned her primary school friends and found herself doing things to fit in rather than be herself. When a social gaff at a party leaves her on the outside, she experiences life on the receiving end of this group- a life Wes is used to. Having previously been home schooled, Wes is coping with his father’s withdrawal from life since his mother left them. Although loving, his dad is not much good at the practical, everyday things and Wes has become a target for bullies. When they meet Star Boy, Wes and Kiki come to realise that they have far more in common than they would ever have thought and knowing Star Boy changes their lives for the better.

As Star Boy- or Stan Boyd as the children come to call him- explores what it means to be human, he questions the behaviour he sees. Why do some people sneer? Do they enjoy being horrible? Stan also reminds us of the simple pleasures in life- the little every day joys which get lost to us. The story brilliantly exposes how the people we sometimes think are our friends are not our real friends and that true humanity can be found in unexpected places. This is such a heart-warming, beautiful book which will no doubt offer comfort and support to those struggling with or worrying about transition.

Celebrating friendship and loyalty, ‘How to be a Human’ is a thoroughly enjoyable read, full of warmth and wisdom. Can’t wait for the next one!

How to be a Human Karen McCombie

Little Tiger ISBN: 978- 1788951098

Molly’s Moon Mission

Molly is a small moth with big ambitions. Her dream is to go to the moon and she puts in lots of hard work and training to accomplish her moon mission. However, Molly has a few false starts as she mistakes first a bulb, then a street lamp and finally a lighthouse for the light of the moon. At this point, her steely determination waivers slightly before a wise old crab offers some words of encouragement and with renewed confidence, she achieves her goal and makes a giant leap for moth-kind!

Full of Duncan’s charming illustrations, ‘Molly’s Moon Mission’ is a wonderful story about holding on to your dreams and never giving up. Molly’s determination is an example to us all, but the story also makes it clear that fulfilling dreams does not come easy- it requires perseverance and dedication as well. And having successfully achieved her goal, Molly is keen to encourage others to follow in her footsteps. She’s quite a moth!

There is so much that could be done with this story in class or at a book group session. Molly lends herself to becoming a lovely little stick puppet which could easily be made and used to retell the story. Children could find out about moths and create Molly-shaped books to record their facts in. They could paint night sky pictures and add a Molly to the scene. Stories about Molly’s siblings and the adventures that she has inspired them to go on would be great fun to write and could form a collection of stories for the library. The language Duncan uses to tell the story is rich and varied, making it a great one to use for developing vocabulary and exploring words as well as using for some fun SPaG activities. I can’t help planning a Moths and Moonbeams (Snakes and Ladders) type of game to develop sentence work!

A wonderfully positive and encouraging story, ‘Molly’s Moon Mission’ is a real treasure. We are looking forward to hearing more about this inspiring moth when Duncan visits us next week as part of our World Book Day celebrations!

Molly’s Moon Mission Duncan Beedie

Templar ISBN: 978-1787413405

The Last Chip

Percy is a small pigeon . Life is tough for him on the streets and he is always hungry so he moves from place to place, trying to find some food. However, wherever he goes, there always seems to be someone bigger who is selfish and not prepared to share. At last, ignored by all passers-by, little Percy huddles on the pavement, hungry and alone, when he is offered a chip - and friendship- from a stranger.

Carrying strong messages of kindness and compassion, 'The Last Chip' is a brilliant story. Bullied, homeless and hungry, Percy captures the heart of the reader and makes it very easy to discuss these issues, encouraging empathy. 

The illustrations are wonderful and people will recognise Bristol as the city which inspired the one Percy flew over with its cathedral, brightly coloured houses and balloon drifting in the sky and the station where he searched for crumbs as Temple Meads. Each illustration is full of Duncan's humorous touches and little jokes.

The Last Chip    Duncan Beedie

Templar      ISBN: 978-1783700622

The Secret Deep

After the death of their mother, Aster and her little sister, Poppy, leave England to go and live with their Aunt Iona in New Zealand. On the plane, they meet Sam, a native New Zealander... Due to her work, they find themselves living in an eco-village with a group of teenagers, cut off from the rest of the world with no technology. The girls soon realise that strange things are happening and life in the camp is not as idyllic as it first appeared. 

Then Aster wakes up on a tropical island, alone, with no idea of how she came to be there or where her sister is. The more she searches for Poppy, the more mysteries she encounters and the more secrets she uncovers. 

This is a richly written, compelling story which offers something very different. A mixture of science, thriller and mystery with hints of sea-lore, it is told from the alternating viewpoints of Aster and Sam. Relationships in the story are very well developed- Sam and his grandfather, Aster and Poppy- and that between the girls and their mother. The pain of loss and grief, the helplessness of watching loved ones suffering from illness and the lengths we might go to to help them are also explored.

The beauties and wonders of the deep are sensitively and carefully described, resulting in evocative, atmospheric passages. Descriptions of the nest of the puffer fish, the delicate sea horses, the beautiful, but deadly jelly fish bring the underwater scenes vividly to life, developing the tropical paradise setting which contrasts so strongly with the danger lurking in the background. 

Gripping from the first page, 'The Secret Deep' is an original, thought-provoking read which is beautifully written. A must read!

The Secret Deep    Lindsay Galvin

Chicken House    ISBN: 978-1911490029

Darwin’s Dragons

Syms Covington was taken on to the Beagle as cabin boy and fiddler, but has spent the past two years acting as assistant to Mr Darwin, a young scientist, as he explores the Galapagos Islands. However, an accident during a storm leaves him shipwrecked and alone in an inhospitable place, struggling to survive. Here, he makes an incredible discovery which will change his life forever.

‘Darwin’s Dragons’ mingles truth and imagination to create a fabulous story. To create her Syms, Lindsay Galvin has used a real cabin boy and fiddler of that name on board the Beagle who was promoted to Darwin’s assistant, instantly showing children what a little research and a lot of creativity can do. The novel is perfect for any class looking at the Year 6 science ‘Evolution and Inheritance’ and ‘working scientifically’ objectives, but offers so much more than this.

When shipwrecked on Narborough Island, Syms is helped by a lizard which he calls Farthing. The relationship developed between these two is developed beautifully, amid stunning descriptions of the island and its flora and fauna. Syms’ time on the island is full of fear and tension as he faces danger from volcanic activity- and a dragon which lives there. With Farthing’s help, Syms rescues the dragon’s eggs, and escapes to sea where, miraculously, he is rescued by the Beagle.

Once back in London, when the eggs hatch, they are considered to be an exotic lizards with Syms alone recognising the truth. When his beloved dragons are rehomed at the London Zoological Society, Syms struggle to accept the attitude many, including Mr Darwin, have to the fate and well being of the creatures there. This offers many excellent opportunities for discussions about historical attitudes to ‘specimens’ as well as current ones, the need for conservation, the role of zoos, etc.

The attention to detail throughout the story is wonderful, creating a book rich in historical detail as well as exciting adventure. There is a map showing the Beagle’s voyage at the beginning of the story and notes at the end offering further information and a timeline of Darwin’s life. The covers fold out to show maps, sketches, notes and pictures, perfect for inspiring further investigation and discovery.

The perfect blend of fact and fantasy, ‘Darwin’s Dragons’ offer much to discuss, but more to enjoy.

Darwin’s Dragons Lindsay Galvin

Chicken House ISBN: 978-1912626465

Oof Makes an Ouch!

Set in the Stone Age, ‘Oof Makes an Ouch!’ introduces us to Oof and Pip, best friends, who can only say their own names until Oof invents a new word which leads to her getting lots of praise and attention from the rest of the village. This makes Pib very jealous and threatens their friendship.

Delightfully funny, ‘Oof Makes an Ouch!’ is also a lovely story for helping children to understand feelings of jealousy and learning to say sorry, making it perfect for starting discussions in PSHE or after one of those difficult play times all teachers are familiar with. Pib’s inability to find the words to express his frustration, which leads to his subsequent actions, is beautifully portrayed, capturing a feeling commonly experienced and allowing for its exploration and for thinking of strategies for helping Pib to act in a different manner.

Forming part of the History Programme of Study for KS2, The Stone Age is an era which fascinates children and generates some amazing questions. When did people start talking to each other? Who spoke the first word? How did everyone know what it meant? are examples of questions I have been asked (amid a multitude of others!) when teaching about this period. ‘Oof’ would make a wonderful starting point for exploring the origins of language, the etymology of words and the changing nature of language as it evolves to describe new inventions and experiences. It could also lead to discussions about the ‘lost words’ taken from dictionaries as they fall from usage. Completely fascinating for a word-nerd like me!

One invention leads to another and to yet more questions..! The invention of the wheel was a major advance - and yet today, we take it completely for granted. Considering inventions and inventors leads to further discoveries and the story offers the opportunity for discussions and creative thinking!

With its lovely characters, the story also lends itself to writing further adventures about Pib and Oof. Who knows what else this dynamic duo might discover or create? Children would enjoy writing additional adventures and using their learning about the Stone Age to colour their writing. (I would like Duncan to write a book all about the little lizard character who appears throughout!)

‘Oof Makes an Ouch!’ is a wonderfully humorous story, encouraging empathy and investigation!

Oof Makes an Ouch! Duncan Beedie

Templar ISBN: 978-1787416819

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