The Children of Castle Rock

After her mother died, Alice Mistlethwaite has become increasingly withdrawn, constantly reading and writing stories only Barney, her father, is allowed to read. As he is an actor and often away from home, Aunt Patience decides it would be best to sell their home, Cherry Grange, and send Alice to a boarding school in Scotland. Although Alice protests, she finds herself arriving at Stormy Loch, a school with very different ideas about education. 

When she receives a mysterious package from her father with strict instructions not to open it, but to take it to a remote island, Alice seizes the opportunity the Great Orienteering Challenge offers to deliver it...

An adventure story in the tradition of boarding school favourites, 'The Children of Castle Rock' is a great read with lots of action and interesting characters. Stormy Loch offers the perfect setting for the children to escape the adult presence and allows the adventure to develop in the wilds of remote Scotland- beautifully described, leaving the reader longing to visit!

Although an adventure, the story is really focused on relationships- those between children and those with parents. Alice adores her father, choosing to ignore his shadier side and the choices he makes until events force her to realise that he should act like the grown up in their relationship and put her well being above his. Fergus, an extremely clever boy who Alice has become friendly with, is struggling with his parent's acrimonious divorce and Jesse, another friend, feels over shadowed by his older brothers whose confidence and talents make him feel inadequate. There are also some interesting moments in the relationships between these very different friends as the story progresses. 

'The Children of Castle Rock' has much to recommend it for children moving on to more challenging reads. Natasha Farrant has allowed her children to swear in the story as they most likely would do, but has chosen to use asterisks to make this more palatable for adults! (It is very obvious what they would be saying!) A great story with great characters and an unusual ending- what more could you ask for!

The Children of Castle Rock    Natasha Farrant 

Faber      ISBN: 978-0571323562

Voyage of the Sparrowhawk

Having started life in an orphanage, Ben is delighted when kindly Nathan adopts him and fellow orphan, Sam. Together, they live a happy life on the Sparrowhawk, Nathan’s barge, until Sam is wounded fighting in WWI and Nathan is killed when he travels to be with him. Threatened with the prospect of having to return to the orphanage, Ben is determined to find his ‘brother’. Lotti has plenty of reasons to to be unhappy. After her loving parents were killed in an accident, her ghastly uncle and aunt have moved in to her home and are making her life misery.

Their lives collide when Lotti rescues a badly treated dog by stealing it and hides on the Sparrowhawk. As events unfold, they hatch a plan to sail across the channel to France to search for Sam and so their adventure begins…

This is classic storytelling, offering plenty of tension, lots of adventure with love, friendship and laughter mixed in. I loved every page!

Lotti and Ben are wonderful characters- so different, but balancing each other perfectly. Their friendship develops as the story progresses and they know that they can rely on one another. Their dogs are also well rounded characters, adding plenty of humour and pathos! Many other characters add to the flavour of the story as they help or hinder the children on their quest- Lotti’s uncle is up there with the most despicable baddies whilst Frank is wonderful!

The courage and determination of these children is a joy to read about, coming to a satisfying conclusion. The devastating impact of war is felt as the children travel though France, but they face each challenge together and show that family can be created in any form where love, trust and companionship are found.

‘Voyage of the Sparrowhawk’ is a stunning read, beautifully told. Extremely satisfying, it’s a must read!

Voyage of the Sparrowhawk Natasha Farrant

Faber ISBN: 978-0571348763

Crater Lake Evolution

Although more than five months have passed since Year 6 went on their trip to Crater Lake, Lance and his friends are still reeling from the experience. The transition to secondary school has seen been hard and the friends are no longer as close as they were. However, when reports of a explosion at the university leading to the escape of a mysterious creature and a town-wide curfew, Lance knows he and his friends need to work together once more to save Straybridge from a deadly enemy.

Sometimes a sequel fails to live up to the expectation, but that is not the case with ‘Crater Lake Evolution’. Jennifer Killick writes pacey, gripping adventures, full of suspense, but which are also infused with a keen sense of humour, taking the edge off the scary moments.

The plot is really well developed, referring to events at Crater Lake, but not to such an extent that having read book one is essential. Bringing the danger to threaten their own town adds an extra frisson of excitement to this story as family members change and are directly exposed to peril. Friendship is very much at the heart of the story, with team work and trust once again saving the day.

The tricky phase of transitioning to secondary school is explored really well in this story. The friends have grown apart as they are facing this next stage, leading to insecurities and misunderstandings. As the children re-group to face this new threat, they are forced to face some of these problems and share feelings about peer pressure, jealousy and anxiety- reassuring for those in a similar situation.

An excellent sequel, ‘Crater Lake Evolution’ is a deliciously dark adventure, mixed with humour and heart.

Crater Lake Evolution Jennifer Killick

Firefly ISBN: 978-1913102647

Crater Lake

On their way to Crater Lake, a brand new activity centre, Lance and his Year 6 class mates are shocked by the appearance of a blood-stained man who stops their coach, muttering warnings about the centre. The lack of camp staff when they arrive is also disconcerting, but that is nothing to the nightmare that follows. On this school trip from hell, don’t ever fall asleep…

Compelling reading, ‘Crater Lake’ is full of sudden frissons of fear and excitement. Jennifer Killick has managed to capture the dynamics of Lance’s class very well with its different groups and alliances yet she also shows how people are not always what they first appear and should not be instantly judged. Each of the group have been hiding something from the others and as their experiences draw them closer, they find comfort in sharing these with each other.

The reader soon comes to realise that there is far more to Lance than meets the eye, trusting him to lead the group to safety and overcome the dangers of Crater Lake. There are some great moments of humour mingled throughout the story to lighten the tension which are much needed!

This is a read-in-one-sitting, keep-the-lights-on-at-bedtime thriller of a story which is perfectly pitched for our Moving On Category. Just unsettling enough, it is a pacy and exciting read with much to recommend it!

Crater Lake Jennifer Killick

Firefly Press ISBN: 978-1913102203

I Really Really Need a Wee

Bush Baby is having a wee emergency. At the jiggly stage of desperation, she tries hard to think of things to take her mind off the subject, but to no avail. She searches for somewhere discrete to relieve herself, but there is nowhere to go…What is she to do?

What a delightful book! Bush Baby’s dilemma is one which many little (and not-so-little!) ones will recognise and empathise with. It is perfect for encouraging discussions about that last trip to the loo before going out, reminding children of Bush Baby’s troubles! Although I have referred to Bush Baby as ‘she’, gender is never specified, making it easy for any child to relate to her fate!

The rhyming text is bouncy and full of energy as poor Bush Baby wriggles and jiggles, trying to contain the urge as it grows stronger. Duncan Beedie has done an amazing job of capturing both the facial and bodily expressions of desperation, managing to make Bush Baby completely adorable as well as uncomfortable!

Here on the Bookshellf, we are huge fans of both members of this dream team’s work and ‘I Really Really Need a Wee’ combines their talents perfectly. I can see this becoming a firm favourite both at home and in schools up and down the country! Fabulous fun!

‘I Really Really Need a Wee’ is a gorgeous book, beautifully illustrated and bursting with laughs!

I Really Really Need a Wee

Karl Newson, illustrated by Duncan Beedie

Little Tiger Books ISBN: 978-1788817851

The Infinite

Elle Bíbi-Imbelé Ifíè is a Leapling. Born on the 29th February, she also has The Gift: she can travel through time. On her twelfth birthday, Elle and a group of students, including her best friend, Big Ben, leap to 2048 on a school visit to the Time Squad Centre. It quickly becomes apparent that things are not as they should be and other Leaplings have been going missing. Having received a message from the future, Elle soon realises that not everyone can be trusted…

What an excellent book! Original, quirky, pacey, intelligent…it was a one-sitting read- and I can’t wait to read her next adventure.

Elle is an amazing character. She is autistic and the author has done an amazing job of explaining how she views the world, her relationships and her obsessions. As the story is told through her voice, it is perfect for building empathy and understanding. I have taught many children who would recognise themselves in both her and Big Ben- and would benefit from the experience.

The plot is something I don’t want to say too much about as everyone should read this book and I would hate to spoil it for them by giving too much away. The story is well constructed and thought provoking with environmental themes and the idea that simple actions really can make a better future.

Richly written and inventive, ‘The Infinite’ is a stunning story with much to recommend it.

The Infinite Patience Agbabi

Canongate ISBN: 978-1786899651

Wild is the Wind

Cassi releases the swift she has nursed back to health and watches as it joins its fellows, beginning their long journey across the world. As they migrate, these tiny creatures witness dramatic landscapes and vast expanses of water. When Kȗn sees the birds arrive, he is delighted as he knows summer is coming. Having nested and raised their young, the swifts fly again, taking summer to Cassi.

This is such a special book. ‘The Rhythm of the Rain’, a celebration of water and the essential part it plays on the planet, introduced the reader to Isaac and Cassi, connected by the journey Isaac’s jar of water made across the world. ‘Wild is the Wind’ opens with Cassi as her little swift is about to embark on its migration, the tiny bird connecting her to Kȗn in another land. The wind in all its guises plays a part at every stage of the flock’s epic flight- changing the face of the earth, carrying scents on the breeze, whipping white horses on the waves…Each spread is a masterpiece, full of detail, colour and life. There is so much here to inspire and enjoy, with many stories waiting to be told. This is a book to treasure and return to again and again whether alone or with others.

The text is lyrical, making it a pleasure to read aloud. But it is also full of detail and places to pause and discuss. The migration of the birds, the wind’s role in the formation of different landscapes, in seed dispersal, in power generation, its caprices and extremes- all facets of the wind are found here. There are so many phrases to linger over and explore- perfect for any lover of language!

Absolutely stunning, ‘Wild is the Wind’ is a wonderful book to treasure and enjoy. Simply beautiful- I cannot recommend it highly enough and hope there are many more books like this yet to come.

Wild is the Wind Grahame Baker-Smith

Templar ISBN: 978-1787417854

The Rhythm of the Rain

Playing in his favourite pool on the side of his favourite mountain as the rain starts to fall, Isaac empties his jar of water into the flow of the stream and follows as it flows down the mountainside, past his house and on through the country and through the city. As the river joins the ocean, Isaac, now in his little boat, wonders where his little jar of water will go now. The story continues following the water as it becomes part of the water cycle and eventually ends up with Isaac in his mountain pool once more.

This richly illustrated book explores the never ending path a drop of water takes and the connections it makes on its journey. The flowing prose celebrates the beauty of water as it moves - its moods and rhythms depicted by carefully chosen language, offering much to discuss and enjoy for the reader.

The story is a celebration of water and all that it gives to everything on ‘our blue water-world’. The clouds release their ‘gift of water’ in a country ‘far, far away from Isaac’s pool’ where it is much needed. Wherever it goes, plants and creatures of the land, sky and sea welcome it, reminding us of how essential water is to our well-being.

This celebration of water is continued in the fabulous illustrations which adorn each spread. Rich colours reflect the different moods and motion of the water as it meanders calmly, tumbles playfully and rolls wildly. Vibrant and absorbing, each is a mini masterpiece.

Perfect for enjoying, ‘The Rhythm of the Rain’ could be used as a way into work on rivers or the water cycle. It could also be used to inspire poetry and descriptive writing. Just beautiful!

The Rhythm of the Rain Grahame Baker-Smith

Templar ISBN: 978-1787410145

Race to the Frozen North: The Matthew Henson Story

Orphan, Matthew Henson, runs away from his violent step-mother to find a new life in New York. Hard working and determined, young Matthew manages to find work in a cafe. Listening to the sea going stories of characters like Baltimore Jack, Matthew embarks on a life at sea as a cabin boy and ends up accompanying Captain Peary on his adventure to ‘discover’ the North Pole. In spite of being the first of the party to reach their goal, Matthew was given no recognition on his return to America.

This is a fabulous account of one of the unsung heroes of history. Having battled against the odds, Matthew Henson’s achievements were unacknowledged during his lifetime and are little known today so this very readable book is an essential addition to libraries and classrooms. The significant contribution made by the Inuit, who gave their expertise and support to the exhibition, and Matthew’s positive relationship with them are also highlighted in this stunning book.

On their return, Peary was celebrated for his achievements and received many accolades whereas Matthew was overlooked despite the fact that much of their success was due to his expertise. This uncomfortable truth offers the perfect starting point for discussions about racism and the importance of telling everyone’s story- not just that of those who fit a particular narrative.

This is an extremely satisfying read about a fascinating character with plenty of challenge in terms of content and vocabulary. It would make an excellent guided reading book and is an essential addition to topic boxes or book collections to enhance work on a number of topics.

Race to the Frozen North: The Matthew Henson Story

Catherine Johnson, illustrated by Katie Hickey

Barrington Stoke ISBN: 978-1781128404

Adventures on Trains

Here are my reviews for books 1-4 of the Adventures on Trains series!

Hal is delighted when his Uncle Nat appears at the start of the Easter holidays. Having received a mysterious letter from an old friend asking for their help, the two train detectives set off to investigate a suspicious death and a family curse. Going undercover as members of the family, they take the Eurostar to Paris and then set off for the family home at the foot of the Harz mountains. Together, they must solve the mystery of Dead Man’s Pass, but is Uncle Nat also keeping secrets?

Once again, the unstoppable team of Leonard, Sedgman and Paganelli have delivered a first class mystery, brimming with action and adventure. In this story, Hal suspects Uncle Nat is keeping things from him and discovers more about his past, bringing many new possibilities for these adventures. I love the relationship between these two and how it has developed over their adventures together.

The story has a wonderful cast of characters, who in true detective story style, all have the finger of suspicion pointing at them at some point as clues and red herrings are skilfully layered. As usual, Elisa’s wonderful pictures allow the reader to see the sketches Hal makes on his journey, although he has to be careful not to reveal himself as ‘the Drawing Detective’.

Like the previous train adventures, ‘Dead Man’s Pass’ is full of description and detail, making the reader want to travel and see the places Hal does. The love of trains is a strong, appealing to ferroequinologists, but not overwhelming the story. Each one of these stories would be wonderful for using with a class, offering plenty to explore and investigate as well as enjoy. I cannot wait to join Hal on his next adventure- and I know many young readers who agree!

Danger at Dead Man’s Pass

Hal and his Uncle Nat are off on another train journey- this time on aboard the Safari Star, a luxury steam train which will take them across Southern Africa. The stunning scenery and amazing wildlife give Hal plenty of opportunities to practise his drawing, but having already solved a kidnapping and captured a jewel thief, he can’t help hoping there will be a mystery on this trip. When a very unpleasant passenger is found dead in a locked compartment, Hal is determined to discover the truth- was it an accident or was it murder on the Safari Star?

We adore this series here at Bookshelf HQ. Each book offers a compelling mystery with plenty of red herrings and surprises along the way to a classic Poirot-style denouement where everything comes to light. ‘Murder on the Safari Star’ is no exception.

A cast of compelling characters occupy the train as it travels from Pretoria to the awe-inspiring beauty of the Victoria Falls in Zambia. There are plenty of drawings throughout the story of these characters, the wildlife and the scenery as Hal (Elisa Paganelli!) sketches all he sees, bringing key moments to life. This really helps children (and adults!) visualise the crime scene and how things are laid out on the trip so they can attempt to solve the crime alongside Hal.

By focusing on the wildlife of the region as Hal and the others enjoy safari trips when the train pauses on its journey, the authors highlight the plight of many of these incredible creatures and the dangers that face them from poachers and big game hunters. There are also sensitive descriptions of these animals in their natural habitat.

Trains are once again at the heart of the story and plenty of detail about the locomotive and its rolling stock as the Safari Star makes its journey. The notes at the end of the book clarify where fiction differs from fact and suggesting places to visit for those who want to find out more about the wonderful world of trains.

These books are perfect for guided reading sessions, offering plenty to discuss and explore as well as great writing full of description and action. Although this is the third book in the series, ‘Murder on the Safari Star’ could easily be read as a stand alone novel- although once you have read one, you absolutely will want to read them all! Can’t wait for book four- ‘Danger at Dead Man’s Pass’.

Murder on the Safari Star

Hal’s off again with Uncle Nat, this time aboard the California Comet for a trip across America from Chicago to San Francisco. Uncle Nat has been asked to report on a special announcement being made by August Reza, millionaire and train enthusiast, whilst Hal is looking forward to enjoying the trains, the scenery and some sketching. Everything changes, however, when Hal finds himself in the middle of a kidnapping involving Reza’s daughter, Marianne.

Once again, M G Leonard and Sam Sedgman whisk us away on a proper adventure! Clues and red herrings abound as Hal and his new train mates, Mason and Hadley, work together to solve the kidnapping and free Marianne. “Sherlock Davinci” (as they dub Hal) uses his sketchbook and his amazing powers of observation to track down the culprits and solve the case. Elisa Paganelli’s illustrations throughout add much to the story.

The book is full of information about trains- this one being based on the California Zephyr- which is seamlessly woven into the story, making it enjoyable for the ferroequinologist and lay person alike. Additional information is offered at the end of the story, explaining more about some elements of the story and pointing the way to finding out more.

There is much to recommend this book for using with a class as the story raises questions about advances in technology and conservation, amongst other things (I can’t give too much away!) Following Hal’s journey could be an engaging way of tackling some of the KS2 geography!

Great fun, ‘Kidnap on the California Comet’ is as engaging as ‘The Highland Falcon Thief’. I’m already looking forward to Hal’s next trip- ‘Murder on the Safari Star’.

Kidnap on the California Comet

When Harrison (Hal) Beck is told that he will be accompanying his train-obsessed, journalist uncle on the final trip of the Highland Falcon as she makes her last journey ever, he is less than impressed. However, when a priceless diamond brooch goes missing just a few hours into the trip, Hal begins to investigate with Lenny, the driver’s daughter. As accusations fly and the suspects list grows, will they unravel the mystery before the Highland Falcon reaches the end of the line?

Agatha Christie- eat your heart out! What a wonderful read this is! From the enticing characters, to the splendour of the train, to the Poirot-style denouement, there is so much to enjoy here.

Writing team, M G Leonard and Sam Sedgman have created an intriguing mystery with a trail of clues and misinformation, leading the reader to suspect each suspect in turn, all wrapped up in fantastic descriptions of this majestic train. Details about the wonders of these magnificent machines are woven seamlessly into the story adding to the excitement of the adventure.

The book is illustrated throughout by Elisa Paganelli, who captures the atmosphere and energy of the story perfectly. There is a wonderful picture of Hal revealing who committed the crime, surrounded by all the characters, for example and another looking down on Hal as he makes his way from the carriage to the tender.

The language is rich and evocative, offering plenty of description. ‘The Highland Falcon Thief’ would make an excellent read aloud (a treat in store for my class soon!), as a guided reader or as a key text to inspire and explore further. Having just had a sneak peek at book two- Kidnap on the California Comet- I can’t wait to read more about Hal and his adventures!

Get on-board ‘The Highland Falcon Express’ as soon as possible!

The Highland Falcon Thief

An Odd Dog Christmas

It’s Christmas Eve and there’s so much festive fun! But Odd Dog is not happy. She’s running out of time to find the perfect present for her special friend. When she discovers a winter wonderland, Odd Dog helps a new friend who teaches her that ‘a simple present from the heart’ is far more important.

We absolutely adore Odd Dog here at Bookshelf HQ so I was delighted to see this new book! Offering a heart-felt message about what is truly important at Christmas, it is makes a perfect story for sharing as the festive season approaches. Always finding her own path, Odd Dog blazes her own trail once again- this time across the sky- as she helps Father Christmas when he is in need and in turn, he offers her excellent advice. Like Odd Dog, children might be inspired to make their own gifts for friends and loved ones, giving their time and love to show that they care.

The illustrations are as fabulous as ever! Every spread is full of detail and humour, with so much to notice and enjoy on each page. The ‘Odd Dog’ biscuits are certainly on my list of things to make this Christmas! The Christmas market reminds me of the one held in Bath each year and the Winter Wonderland is just gorgeous. I love the Christmas pudding hot air balloons and spotting all the references to Rob’s other books! And don’t forget to take off the dust jacket to enjoy the book’s cover beneath.

Told in bouncy rhyme and using a rich vocabulary, the story is a delight to read aloud. The paw-fect Christmas gift!

An Odd Dog Christmas Rob Biddulph

Harper Collins ISBN: 978-0008413354

Lesser Spotted Animals

‘Lesser Spotted Animals’ speaks out for the overlooked, almost forgotten and practically unknown creatures of the animal world. Big or small, cute or quirky, endangered or numerous-the one thing that these animals have in common is that they are most definitely Z-list. Unlike the A-List celebrities of the natural world, these creatures have never had their moment in the lime light- that is, until now…

So, say goodbye to the gnu, cheerio to the cheetah and poo poo to the panda. There will be no lions and tigers and bears (oh my!) but rather pikas and numbats and yellow-footed rock wallabies. Prepare to meet the wonderfully wow wildlife you never normally get to see.

Each page of this book celebrates a different mammal, one of the thousands that never gets seen and never get talked about. Some of the animals within the book are plentiful. Take Africa’s pongy predator, the zorilla, for example. This carnivorous weasel-like creature may look a little like a skunk, but when it comes to pong-power, it knocks the more commonly known skunk out of the water. The zorillas’ potent stench can be smelt more than a mile away. Despite this, Kenyan farmers are eager to have zorillas around as they eat the grubs, rats and mice that ruin pastures and wreak havoc on their crops. There is also the dagger-toothed flower bat, the friendly fruit champion of the night. Although its name suggests otherwise, these are gentle creatures with a sweet-tooth. They flit from flower to flower sipping at the nectar. At the same time, they spread the pollen that has stuck to their faces, pollinating the trees. In fact, without these peaceful pollinators, some fruit trees would be entirely fruitless!

However, many of these Lesser Spotted Animals are far from numerous, with many being critically endangered or having so little known about them that it is impossible to say whether or not they are at risk. The rocky rabbit relative, the ili pika, was first discovered in 1983 and since then its numbers have halved, making it endangered. Unlike its rabbit cousins, the ili pika has small rounded ears and shorter legs; it also has a voice, making short eep, eep, eep noises. They are just as cute as their rabbit relations though and have some seriously clever survival skills to help cope the long, cold, snowy winters. The numbat – toothy termite-eater of the Australian west – can scoff as many as 20,000 termites each day, licking them up with its long, sticky tongue. There are only about 1000 of these unique creatures left in the wild and their numbers continue to drop. Unbelievably, there are more giant pandas in the world than there are numbats, but, unlike those big black-and-white celebrities, they get little to no attention.

‘Lesser Spotted Animals’ is an absolutely fascinating and eye-opening look at the natural world, delivering a powerful message, especially when sharing those animals that are endangered but whose plight (and existence) is virtually unknown to most of us. However, the book does not preach or lecture. In fact, its accessible chatty style, fact boxes and humour make it a light, easy read which would appeal to most children as it manages to be factual, engaging and funny all at once. The text is a perfect mix of scientific terminology and facts with description and anecdotes that will allow children to visualise the animals. For example, the size of each animal is described in ways such as, ‘as long as two average twelve year-olds, end-to-end,’ and, ‘about as big as a mouse – with wings.’ Alongside this are Martin Brown’s brilliant illustrations. Every page is full colour with delightful cartoon character animals, many of which have fun speech bubbles, which will have you chuckling to yourself. As well as the large illustrations, there are plentiful additional smaller pictures which will raise a smile: the sand cat in an ‘I heart sand’ t-shirt; the dagger-toothed flower bat dressed as batman; the tap-dancing black-footed ferret.

This gem of a book will hook children into learning more about lesser known animals. They can discover some of the 5,500 species of mammal out there in the world such as the dik dik, dingiso and delicate deer mouse (that just sneak on to the final page of the book). Perhaps, this could lead toward them creating their own book of ‘Lesser Spotted animals,’ (or a version about birds, marine life, insects, reptiles…). The small maps and geographical information on each page encourage a more detailed look at animal habitats and how different creatures survive in more extreme environments. This is also an excellent springboard for looking at classification and species diversity. Part of the detailed glossary is the different statuses used to classify animals, from least concern to extinct. Children could learn about the reasons behind why different creatures, through history to the present day, have become endangered and even extinct, as well as the different ways they are being protected. They could use persuasive writing and advertising to create their own campaign to help raise awareness about a ‘Lesser Spotted’ animal (just like the campaigns that have been used to rally support for the ‘celebrity’ pandas, elephants and koalas). Such work, with older children, would also help them to consider the part that media exposure contributes to fame – why have some of these animals become such celebrities of the natural world, and others not. Why do we care so much about them?

Lesser Spotted Animals – The Brilliant Beasts You Never Knew You Needed To Know About

Martin Brown

David Fickling Books    ISBN: 978-1910200537

Martin has written a second book called ‘Even More Lesser Spotted Animals’, also published by David Fickling Books (ISBN: 978-1338349610). Some guided reading notes for the first book are available in Reading Resources.

Nell and the Cave Bear

A long time ago, Nell lived with the Cave Clan. Her best friend was a small cave bear cub who she found hiding in the deepest, darkest part of the cave. The two are inseparable so when Nell hears some of the grown-ups planning to make a gift of Cave Bear to the visiting Sea Clan, she decides their only option is to run away. Together, Nell and Cave Bear embark on a great adventure, following the river and facing all kinds of dangers.

Beautifully told, ‘Nell and the Cave Bear’ is a lovely story, full of warmth and humour. Nell is a very appealing and likeable character who children are sure to relate to. Her loyalty to her friend, Cave Bear, leads her on an exciting adventure as she tries to make sure that they stay together. Whilst they are on their journey following the river to wherever it ends, the hunters from her clan are unsuccessfully trying to capture a mammoth, adding plenty of humour with their hapless attempts!

Obviously, the Stone Age setting will make this an appealing read for children learning about that period in school (and their teachers!), but it would be a great shame if it were pigeon-holed in this way as it will tempt children of all ages at any time! The story is full of lovely descriptions and the settings and characters are well developed, offering much to discuss and enjoy. I love the quirky name spellings - I think I shall be Soo from now on!

The story is highly illustrated in shades of blue, making it attractive and eye-catching. There is a section on ‘Cave Bear Care’ at the end- the cave bear (Ursus spelaeus) was a real prehistoric species of bear, making this a great starting point for finding out more about these creatures! Martin’s wonderful illustrations are familiar to many from the Horrible Histories series and the pictures in Nell are delightful. I hope this is the first of many adventures for Nell and Cave Bear!

Nell and the Cave Bear Martin Brown

Piccadilly Press ISBN: 978-1848129689

Guided reading notes for this book are available in Reading Resources.

The Histronauts: An Egyptian Adventure

Meet the Histronauts- Luna, Nani, Newton and Hero, the cat- as they visit a museum to find out more about the Ancient Egyptians. Whilst there, they find their way back in time where they meet Tia, a priestess, who shows them what life was like in Ancient Egypt before they return to the museum and their own lives.

This is a must have for any teacher starting a topic on the Ancient Egyptians. Beautifully illustrated, the story is told in cartoon format, making it engaging and easy to read. But there is no lack of information- the book is packed full of facts about life in Ancient Egypt which occur as the children spend time there. 

Before the children travel back in time, there is a note explaining archaeology, a timeline and a map of ancient Egypt to place the adventure in context. The museum itself is not named, allowing for it to be any museum with Egyptian artefacts anywhere. Once the children have travelled back in time, the story is interspersed with activities and things to make and do.

The book would make a great starting point for learning about this period as a whole topic could structured around it, offering a very practical, hands on approach to learning. Additional activities, research and perhaps a visit to a museum could be planned in alongside the story with the learning being led by the children's interests. The excellent illustrations easily lead to looking at pictures of the original artefacts and paintings from the period, for example 'The Book of the Dead'. 

Fascinating, fun and educational, 'The Histronauts: An Egyptian Adventure' is a wonderful resource for teachers as well as an excellent addition to the library! I hope they have more adventures soon.

The Histronauts: An Egyptian Adventure 

Frances Durkin, illustrated by Grace Cooke

b small publishing      ISBN: 978-1911509097

The Golden Horsemen of Baghdad

When his father, a fisherman, dies, Jabir is left in charge of his mother and his three sisters. When their landlord threatens to evict them, Jabir must find work so he heads for Baghdad, the most fascinating city in the world.

However, Jabir is thrown into prison for stealing food and things look desperate for him. Fortunately, Jabir’s talent for whittling toys means he is rescued by a clockmaker who needs him to carve twelve golden horsemen to decorate a water clock for Caliph Harun Al-Raschid. But someone seems determined to prevent Jabir from completing his task and he and Yasmina, daughter of the clock maker, have to seek help from his mother’s people who live in the desert. Will the clock be finished in time?

Not only is this an amazing adventure story with a pacey plot and excellent characters, but it is perfect for supporting the History curriculum at KS2-’a non-European society that provides contrasts with British history… early Islamic civilization, including a study of Baghdad c. AD 900’. The book is richly detailed and offers much information about Baghdad and life at this time as the fabric of the story, making in invaluable for those choosing to teach this period. The quality of writing, its historical setting and the compelling nature of the story make it an excellent text for using as a focus both both history and English, bringing the period alive and offering many opportunities for drama, writing in a range of genres and contexts, exploring vocabulary and offering a challenging read. It’s length also makes it a very achievable read. This is the type of book that makes me itch to start planning! Fabulous!

The Golden Horsemen of Baghdad Saviour Pirotta

Bloomsbury ISBN: 978-1472955999

Mark of the Cyclops

Set in Ancient Greece, 'Mark of the Cyclops' follows the adventures of Nico and Thrax. A freeborn apprentice, Nico is a scribe who works for Master Lykos and when new slave, Thrax, joins the household, the two are sent with his son, Ariston, a poet, to a very important wedding in Corinth. On this trip, the boys show a flair for detecting when a precious wedding vase is broken and a slave girl. Gaia, is blamed. A mysterious stranger with the mark of the Cyclops on his face keeps appearing- is he involved in the mystery somehow?

Books like this are a real gift to teachers. The historical content is not incidental, but woven seamlessly into the fabric of the story, making it rich in detail about the period. Most things are explained naturally within the context of the writing, for example...

We found the agora teeming with people, like a anthill at the height of summer. There were stalls laden with fish, still gasping from being pulled out of the sea... We spied cheap jewellery and blue amulets shaped like eyes to ward off sickness and bad luck. I found the stall selling papyrus and stopped to admire it. It had lots of other wonderful things for sale too. Reed pens and styluses and inkwells in various shapes and sizes, some of them with cork stoppers to stop the ink drying up.

"Look at these little knives," said Thrax. "They have beautiful bone handles."

"They're sharpening knives. Scribes use them on their kalamos."

A glossary, a section explaining the many and varied pots used at this time and information about Greek Gods and Goddesses are included at the end of the book to ensure nothing is missed. Vividly described scenes and the use of correct terms really help to immerse the reader in the world of the Ancient Greeks.

But this is not 'just' a historical novel. It is also a very convincing detective story with plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader completely engrossed in the action. The classic Poirot and Hastings, Holmes and Watson combination of detective and sidekick who records their brave deeds is cleverly developed with Thrax, a slave boy with a knack for problem solving and observation, teaming up with Nico, a scribe who dreams of writing his own stories. 

There is so much work that could stem from this fabulous story- meaningfully linked to Ancient Greece if that happens to be the class topic- or as a novel in its own right. Discussions about slavery and its role in Ancient civilisations could be linked to reading books like 'Kick' (one of our Moving On titles) which raises the topic of modern slavery. With 'individual liberty' being one of the core British values, this could easily form part of their SMSC work. 

The book offers numerous opportunities to develop oracy skills as well as reading and writing opportunities.The historical and geographical links are obvious, but there are also science links which could be made, particularly around changes of state. Saviour Pirotta is the author of many other books, including some of my favourite re-tellings of myths and legends from many countries which having read this, children are sure enjoy exploring for themselves. 

The book is full of atmospheric, black and white illustrations which, as well as adding to the story, could be used as a starting point for work. They are full of details from the story, well worth lingering over!

A thoroughly enjoyable story which thankfully is part of a series so the further adventures of Nico and Thrax can be enjoyed as they solve further mysteries in the Ancient Greek world.

Mark of the Cyclops: An Ancient Greek Mystery     Saviour Pirotta

Bloomsbury     ISBN: 978-1472934147

The Stolen Spear

Wolf lives with his family on Great Island. In a society where being strong and brave is valued, Wolf struggles to fit in, When a sacred spear is stolen from a burial mound, Wolf finds himself blamed for the crime and must leave his home to try and clear his name.

Set at the end of the late Neolithic period, ‘The Stolen Spear’ is full of details about the lives of the people of this time. Saviour has used the Orkney Islands and Skara Brae as the setting for the story, making this the perfect story for using to support history work on this period. As Wolf leaves his home in search of the truth, the reader is allowed to compare life in Wolf’s settlement with that on the other islands. The illustrations by Davide Ortu, spread throughout the book, add much to the story.

As well as its historical detail, the story is one of friendship and bravery, of finding your place in the world. Wolf is a very likeable character, easy to empathise with and suggested questions are included at the end of the book to encourage discussion.

A thoroughly enjoyable adventure, ‘The Stolen Spear’ is a great story which is perfect for using with work on the Stone Age.

The Stolen Spear Saviour Pirotta, illsutrated by Davide Ortu

Maverick ISBN: 978-1848864085

Crazy About Cats

Although I am a fan of photographs in non-fiction books, there is something very appealing about Owen’s stunning illustrations and their beauty which negates this concern completely. ‘Crazy About Cats’ begins with exploring the genus of cats, number of species and general diet and habitat of these amazing creatures before considering their evolution and the domesticity of the house cat. This could form the perfect starting point for work on classification, using examples before working scientifically and classifying creatures they might find closer to home. (Bonkers About Beetles might come in handy here!)

The diversity of cats in this book is wonderful, making the perfect starting point for further investigation, allowing children to compare and contrast how different cats species have adapted to their environments. The marbled cat (Pardofelis marmorata) caught my imagination - I’m ashamed to say I had never heard of it; I now know where it comes from and that it is the only species classified as ‘pardofelis’, having previously been thought to belong to the panthera lineage. Another species which leapt off the page at me was the ‘margay’. Sadly. both of these wonderful creatures are considered to be ‘near threatened’.

‘Crazy About Cats’ is packed full of fascinating, clear information, but I also love the fact that there is a section about cat mythology, touching on some of the stories told about cats through the ages. There are many writing opportunities which might come from this book as well- reports, persuasive, discussion as well as narrative.

The contents and index make it easy to navigate, but this is really one of those books that is best lingered over as something catches the eye. The book ends with information about the endangered status of many of our big cats and suggestions for how we can help.

Beautiful in content as well as quality, ‘Crazy About Cats’ is a fabulous book about felines which will captive and educate in equal measure.

Crazy About Cats Owen Davey

Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1911171164

Obsessive About Octopuses

The latest in Owen Davey’s ‘About…’ series is every bit as delightful as the others. Each book looks in detail at one special creature and entices the reader in with its beautiful illustrations and fascinating facts. This series has proved very popular in our school library, with ‘Mad About Monkeys’ top of the list. I am sure this latest offering will be just as admired.

Colour is used to great advantage throughout the book, adding to the appeal. Octopuses tentacles wind their way across the pages, framing and bordering the text. There are plenty of side headings with little snippets of information on offer, making it easy to dip in and out of.

The text is packed with information, offering lots of details and facts. There are so many gems included here, all clearly explained, using scientific language where needed, making the book an absorbing read. The index gives the Latin names as well as the English, useful for Year 6 work on Linnaeus and his system of binomial nomenclature, as well as for locating information easily. The contents offers broader sections to entice the browser. My favourite section is the one on ‘Octopus Mythology’, which explores legends about these incredible creatures from different cultures.

A wonderfully tactile and beautifully illustrated book, ‘Obsessive About Octopuses’ is an excellent read. Another to add to the library.

Obsessive About Octopuses Owen Davey

Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1912497195

Rain Before Rainbows

In the midst of the rain,

Rainbows can be hard to see.

Leaving a dark castle behind them, a little girl and her fox friend set off together in the pouring rain on a long and perilous journey, facing many challenges and dangers. Finally, they arrive in a new land where they are surrounded by many animals who are there to support and guide them as they gradually rebuild their world.

Told in rhyme, this beautiful book offers hope for the future. Although it obviously holds great significance with the current situation, this is a book which will last the test of time as it carries such a powerful message: there is always hope for the future. One of nature’s special beauties, the rainbow is a powerful symbol of hope in many cultures, offering a shared understanding of the joy that can follow despair. Smriti Halls’ text conveys this perfectly, reminding us that we experience joy all the more keenly for having known sorrow.

The illustrations are pure David Litchfield joy! Glowing with colour, each spread is rich in detail to explore and discuss. I don’t know whether it’s just me, but the spreads seem to be tinged with the colours of the rainbow as the story moves from the girl and her fox (red clothes and fur against the dark) to the indigo edged waves of the sea and then again from their arrival on new shores to happily dancing beneath the rainbow at the end. Wonderful for inspiring art work, the whole book is a thing of great beauty, perfect for sharing again and again.

‘Rain Before Rainbows’ is a stunning book offering much needed comfort and hope.

Rain Before Rainbows Smriti Halls, illustrated by David Litchfield

Walker ISBN: 978-1406382358