Reviews
There are so many incredible books available at the moment that it is impossible to read them all, no matter how hard I try! Here are my thoughts about some of the books I have read and how I think they could be used in school as well as Q and A sessions with authors and illustrators.
Snow
Every day, the Princess digs in the endless snow of Mistmir, desperately seeking something which will restore her kingdom to what it once was. The sudden appearance of a mysterious girl gives the Princess hope she might be able to undo the foolish wish she once made and she is determined to take the girl- Ela- to her father, the King. But Ela is alarmed to find herself face to face with the Snow Princess whose picture is on the cover of her favourite book- a book her mother has now locked away and won’t let her read. The girls must work together to unravel family secrets and set things right.
With a wonderfully wintery setting, ‘Snow’ is a magical story, perfect for this time of year.
The Princess- Karina-is beautifully captured. Craving attention and affection from her father and confused by her much-loved aunt’s behaviour, she makes a rash wish which leads to chaos for her kingdom. The guilt she carries for this is almost palpable as she strives to correct her mistake and maintain the ‘standards’ of being a princess which have been hammered into her all her life. As the story develops, the ache of her loneliness will make even the most hard hearted reader empathise with her and celebrate the brave choices she makes as the book reaches its climax. Ela is also a lonely child, struggling with school and the loss of her ex-best friend, and eager to learn more about the curious book which her mother now seems so determined to hide from her.
A slow start allows for some excellent world building with vivid descriptions and details, making the perfect backdrop to the story as it picks up pace, whisking readers into an incredible adventure, full of magic and mystery, family and friendship.
A thoroughly enjoyable read!
Snow
Meera Trehan
Walker ISBN: 978-1529528787
Tomorrow’s Ghost
In the summer of 1976, Anna wakes from a strange dream to hear her aunt Maggie making plans to send her away for the summer to help her Auntie Em, who has sprained her ankle. Never wanting to be a burden to her aunt who took her in after the death of her parents, Anna readily agrees despite secret feelings of reluctance. However, Em and her lovely dog, Bob, are welcoming and Anna is full of optimism for the summer ahead. But her strange dreams seem to have followed her to Pear Tree Cottage and when she discovers the ruins of a once-grand house in the woods, Anna is sure it is connected to Etty, the young girl who keeps appearing in her dreams. As she learns more of Etty’s story, Anna is determined to save her…
Set in the long, hot summer of 1976, ‘Tomorrow’s Ghost’ is a wonderfully atmospheric story which connects two girls, both orphaned, across time. Each girl is beautifully captured, making them very relatable and easy to empathise with. After having overheard a conversation, Anna is worried about being a burden on Maggie and so tries to be as helpful and accommodating as possible, usually ignoring her own feelings in the process. Anna also feels lost with her best friend, Suzy, who is now interested in fashion and boys rather than the imaginative games they used to play. Etty has also been orphaned and is sent to live with her cruel and uncompromising Grandfather, who disapproved of her mother. In his house, Etty finds she has to pretend and play the part of a haughty heiress, but dreams of finding freedom and escaping the unhappy life she is trapped in. Her feelings of loss and confusion on arriving at her new home are deeply poignant.
As well as offering a compelling mystery as the connection between the two girls unfolds, the book is also full of historical details, seamlessly woven through the story. The endless, hot summer, fashion ideas, ‘Jackie’ magazine, district nurses, not flushing the loo to save water… 1976 is vividly brought to life for today’s readers with its lack of mobile phones and other everyday luxuries taken for granted today (Auntie Em has a small black and white television with poor reception!), offering plenty to talk about. Readers also learn much about life at the end of the Great War, the flu epidemic and the contrasting lives of the rich and poor. The attitude to women and girls in Etty’s time might not surprise readers, but the pressure Anna feels to be a ‘good’ girl and being sent to look after a relative she barely knows at the age of 12 is sure to cause plenty of comment!
This is a story which has a wide age appeal with plenty to capture imagination and interest. A cracking read!
Tomorrow’s Ghost
Tanya Landman
Walker ISBN: 978-1529519747
Wolf Crown
Having beaten the White Prince in the race for the Midnight Treasure and having discovered that they are, in fact, twins, Tibor and Roza now know that they are heirs to the throne of Princeland. However, now mortal, having lost their powers using the Dark Lantern, reclaiming their inheritance seems an impossibility as they face a new race against time to find the long-lost Wolf Crown which seems to offer their only chance of defeating the White Prince once and for all.
No summary could ever do justice to the richly-told, superbly plotted dream of a book which is ‘Wolf Crown’. I absolutely adored ‘Midnight Treasure’ - and this sequel is even better!
Separated, Roza and Tibor are forced to follow different paths on their journey to defeat the White Prince. During their adventures, they discover much about themselves, showing great courage and determination on the way. They learn to accept help from others, to consider different possibilities and ultimately that everyone has light and dark within them, but each individual can decide ‘how much and when’. Together, they are strong and together, they share the crown.
Each character in the story is carefully developed from the Grimoire to (my new favourite!) Tiny Tibor, who may be ‘only’ a small, smooth newt, but whose contribution to discovering the Crown is incalculable!
The incredible world building started in ‘Midnight Treasure’ continues throughout the story with wonderfully detailed, evocative descriptions. A map at the beginning of the book allows readers to chart the twins’ progress on their adventures. It was a joy to revisit this world and leave Roza and Tibor poised for new and exciting possibilities. Perfect for anyone looking for a challenging, satisfying and exciting read!
Wolf Crown
Piers Torday
Quercus ISBN: 978-1786541451
You can read my review of ‘Midnight Treasure’ here.
Swanfall
Pip lives with his family at Keeper’s Cottage on the wetlands where his mum works on environmental conservation. He particularly enjoys the swanfall every autumn where Arctic swans return home and watches out for his three favourites who he has named Midnight, Silver and Moonshadow.
At school, Pip is not so happy as he struggles to focus, but he enjoys their class visits to the Book Bus. When Mrs de Plume from the old manor house donates a trunk of old books, he finds himself drawn to an old book, one which Mrs de Plume seems determined to retrieve. The mysterious book, the missing swans and Mrs de Pume’s increasingly odd behaviour lead Pip and his friends into an adventure full of legend, mystery and magic.
‘The Children of Lir’, which inspired ‘Swanfall’, is one of my favourite Irish legends so I was very keen to read this book and I was not disappointed. Sophie Kirtley has skilfully woven this ancient story into one of her own, creating a wonderfully atmospheric and gripping read.
Pip is an extremely relatable young lad whose passion for the swans and the annual swanfall represents all those children with interests and hobbies lie outside the boundaries of the traditional school curriculum. He feels cut off from the other children, except for his best friend, Tommo in whose non-judgmental, easy company Pip feels at ease. However, the inclusion of classmates, Erin and Hanif, into this friendship leaves Pip feeling threatened, particularly by Hanif who is popular and effortlessly amazing at everything. As the story progresses, Pip learns that people are not always what they appear at first glance and he comes to value Erin and Hanif and their loyalty and courage, as much as he does Tommo, finding his flock to fly with just as the swans find theirs.
Hauntingly beautiful, evocative writing celebrates the beauties- and perils- of the natural world as well as the light and dark of human nature. Tense and intense in places, ‘Swanfall’ is perfect for offering readers something special and different which might lead them to ‘The Children of Lir’ and other Irish myths as well as sparking an interest in the Arctic swans so lovingly described in these pages.
A fabulous read!
Swanfall
Sophie Kirtley
Bloomsbury ISBN: 978-1526642820
Witchlight
Having saved Huswyvern, her magical home, from the evil machinations of her uncle, Eglantine and other members of Miss Hegotty’s Secret Society of Witches are having their meetings there. But Hus is not feeling at all well and is causing chaos with every sneeze. Its undiagnosed condition is really concerning, particularly when they learn that other magical beings are also falling ill. The Department of Isle-Spark Regulations is obviously up to no good and Eglantine and her friends must discover what they are up to and put things right before it’s too late.
‘Witchlight’ is the brilliant sequel to ‘Witchspark’. Both books are full of magic, friendship, adventure and fun, a real pleasure to read. In addition to this, they are beautifully written, with a rich use of descriptive language as shown by the opening sentences alone!
Eglantine is a wonderful character, loyal, kind-hearted and courageous. Determined to do her best and to stand up for what she believes in, she and her friends work together to thwart the Department’s plans, with readers cheering her on every step of the way!
The story addresses themes of injustice and discrimination. The Department is attempting to control magic, denying it to those they consider inferior or unsuitable and Eglantine faces discrimination from some as a result of her little arm. There is plenty here to provoke discussion as readers will rightly find themselves infuriated by the unfairness and unkindness the story exposes.
The exciting plot races towards a very satisfying and enjoyable conclusion, making this an excellent choice for a class read. Although a sequel, it could successfully be read as a stand-alone story, sure to capture everyone’s hearts and imaginations!
Witchlight
Dominique Valente
Usborne ISBN: 978-1805316800
You can read my review of ‘Witchspark’ here.
Adventure Mice: Mousehole to the Centre of the Earth
When Uncle Bernie visits the Adventuremice, he brings them his latest invention, the Mechanical Mole. Taking it for a test drive, they discover an amazing underground world, inhabited by some friendly cave mice- and a not-so-friendly Hamstersaurus Rex. Can the intrepid Adventuremice save the day?
This series just gets better and better! Fabulous illustrations and humorous, pacy adventures combine to create very satisfying and engaging stories, perfect for young readers.
In ‘Mousehole to the Centre of the Earth’, Pedro and his team discover a fascinating underground world. As usual, through teamwork, dedication, creativity and imagination, they find solutions to problems and help others. With the Hamstersaurus stomping around, threatening the peaceful Cave Mice, it takes all their ingenuity- and some empathy and understanding from Pedro- to make everyone happy. The story is perfect for encouraging readers to consider things from other viewpoints, considering why some might act as they do and looking for a happy path, catering for the needs of all.
Everyone of the books in this series offers so many opportunities for developing creative ideas and encouraging imaginative play. As usual, there is a step-by-step drawing guide, this time for how to draw the Hamstersaurus Rex, encouraging children to create their own adventures and illustrating them. A wonderful map of the ‘Fern Cavern’ is included at the end of the book, allowing children to follow the action in the story - as well as sparking ideas for storytelling.
The Adventuremice also create a hot air balloon which allows them to return home. Children would enjoy creating their own balloons from different materials and experimenting with flying them using a hairdryer to provide the hot air, deciding how to make this a fair test… or simply for the fun factor!
I cannot recommend this series highly enough. Visually engaging, bursting with imaginative ideas, full of humour and heart, they are utterly delightful. Having keen eyes and having noticed the message at the front, I also know that there is a website- Adventuremice.com- where you can find out more about the team!
AdventureMice: Mousehole to the Centre of the Earth
Philip Reeve and Sarah McIntyre
David Fickling ISBN: 978-1788453530
You can read my review of ‘Otter Chaos’ here, ‘Mice on the Moon’ here, ‘Mice on the Ice’ here and ‘Mice, Camera, Action!’ here.
Ice Dancer
Dina and her brothers are leaving the hills of Wales behind and are heading to Sheffield to stay with their aunt, JJ. However, hurt and frustrated by the frosty reception JJ gives them, Dina takes her great-grandmother’s skates and heads for the local rink. Although she is passionate about skating, Dina finds mixing with others really hard. Shocked by how hostile some of the skaters are, Dina manages to make friends with talented skater, Rosie. With the odds stacked against her and secrets from her family’s past coming to light, Dina must find the courage to follow her dreams.
‘Ice Dancer’ is just the sort of story I would have loved as a child! Completely absorbing, it celebrates the power of family and friendship as well as the joy a hobby can bring.
Family - with all its flaws and foibles - is at the heart of the story. Dina is struggling with the loss of her older sister and the break up of her parents’ marriage. The aunt who she remembers as being kind and fun has become cold and distant and she is feeling increasingly isolated. No one is really talking about how they feel, leading to misunderstandings, misinterpretation and mistrust, but this is a loving family, who through sharing personal stories, listening and talking, eventually come through even stronger than before.
Forced into the role of ‘older sister’, Dina craves the freedom she feels on the ice. Her passion for skating is brilliantly captured and there is plenty of detail to intrigue and interest readers, inspiring them to discover more. The story shows how competitive sport might not be for everyone with the pressures and rivalry it can bring- but it also shows the joys of expressing yourself creatively! Dina is a lovely character, unsure of herself and reluctant to be the centre of attention, but desperate to find friendship and readers will empathise with her feelings of loss and insecurity as she tries to navigate new situations.
There is also a strong theme of challenging the status quo in skating, encouraging readers to consider some of the rules around the traditional roles taken in the sport and whether these should be continued. This would make an excellent starting point for looking at those who have chosen to do what they think is right rather than that which will win them prizes! Children might enjoy investigating figures like Surya Bonaly and discussing the choices that people sometimes have to make.
‘Ice Dancer’ is an excellent read, offering plenty of mystery and adventure, thoroughly enjoyable and thought-provoking! So much to recommend this one!
Ice Dancer
Alex Cotter
Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805133025
You can read my review of ‘The Mermaid Call’ here.
Sin Bin Island
When Jack Winston Claremont Digby- Digs to his friends- finds himself with the family solicitor after the death of his mum, stepfather and sister, he has no idea how strange things are about to become. He has been left a strange set of Russian nesting dolls and discovers that, instead of being taken care of by family friend, Mrs O’Malley, he is to be sent to the Cyril Snigg’s Correctional Orphanage for Wayward Boys and Girls. The doll, it turns out, opens to reveal instructions to help him navigate his now uncertain future- and Digs is going to need all the help he can get to survive the bizarre lessons, systems and punishments of his new school. At the end of each year, the four worst-behaved pupils are sent to Sin Bind Island, a terrifying place where they must survive for a week…
As a huge Red Dwarf fan, I was very keen to read ‘Sin Bin Island’ as its author, Doug Naylor, is one of the creators of that excellent series. Fast paced, packed with adventure and full of humour, the story is every bit as good as I hoped it would be!
The first part of the book focuses on Digs arrival at the Cyril Snigg’s Correctional Orphanage for Wayward Boys and Girls, or ‘Cowbag’ as the pupils call it, following his fortunes as he builds friendships and learns more about the orphanage, its creation and its secrets. Digs is a thoroughly likeable character, determined to do his best in the face of adversity, loyal and kind-hearted. Baffled by the decision which has landed him at this very odd school, he wastes no time moping, but quickly makes friends- and learns who to avoid. These friendships will stand him in good stead when he has to face the horrors of Sin Bin island!
Although the story shares many of the expected elements of a boarding school story, it is peppered with original twists. The second half of the book tackles the children’s experiences on Sin Bin Island. Full of peril and excitement, the story romps along to its conclusion which leaves plenty of scope for future adventures for Digs and his friends. The layered plot and pleasing pace make this story perfect for those looking for a more challenging and very entertaining read in Y6 and into secondary.
Can’t wait for the next one!
Sin Bin Island
Doug Naylor
David Fickling Books ISBN: 978-1788453707
The Strange Disappearance of Imogen Good
Fran is not looking forward to spending a week with her aunt and uncle, largely because of her rude and unfriendly cousin, Imogen. However, when she arrives, Fran finds that Imogen is missing…and no one seems to remember that she ever existed. Puzzled and frightened, Fran is determined to find out what happened to her cousin which leads her to a hidden garden which contains twelve mysterious statues.
Offering an excellent mystery, ‘The Strange Disappearance of Imogen Good’ is a pacy, compelling read which will have readers on the edge of their seats.
Short chapters told from differing viewpoints are interspersed with those telling the story of ‘The Twelve Statues of Stillness Hall’ which gradually reveals the secret of the hidden garden. As events unfold, the story reaches a very satisfying conclusion which is perfectly paced, bringing the plot to a point which still allows readers some scope for imagination. It’s hard to explain what I mean here fully without ruining the story for those who have not read it yet!
Fran is a very engaging character. Although initially scared and confused by the situation she finds herself in, she quickly shows herself to be determined and resourceful. She is also a very honest character, recognising her faults and seeking to be kind to others. Bex, a girl who lives in the same row of cottages as Imogen and her family, is a wonderfully quirky individual who sadly finds herself on the receiving end of the local bullies. Imogen is a really interesting and complex character who is not easy to take to initially yet grows on the reader as the story progresses.
Sure to keep a class on tenterhooks, there is much to recommend this as a class reader. The peer pressure and bullying experienced would make for interesting discussions and the fantasy element is sure to spark listeners’ imaginations and lead to some excellent story writing!
I was absolutely captivated and could not put this one down until I had finished!
The Strange Disappearance of Imogen Good
Kirsty Applebaum
Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805131472
You can read my review of ‘The Middler’ here and ‘Troofriend’ here
Huxley and Flapjack: Wild West Escape
Huxley, the impulsive koala, and Flapjack, the timid penguin, are back in a new adventure! Spotting an advert in the paper, Huxley decides that becoming a cowhand is the perfect way to earn some money. Not deterred when Flapjack points out that they can’t even ride horses, Huxley accepts the job and the two friends find themselves in charge of a herd of cows. However, when they lose all the cows, they must track them all down before heading home to the farm.
Ideal for younger readers, ‘Wild West Escape’ is another delightful escapade for these two loveable, and very different, friends!
As usual, everything goes wrong as Huxley blithely wanders into a new situation, deaf to the cautious voice of Flapjack. Their series of mishaps will have children chuckling and then cheering as everything turns out right in the end! The story is full of gentle humour and packed with lively, colourful illustrations, making it a very engaging and enjoyable read.
One of the many lovely things about this story is that, like the others in the series, it allows for conversations about friendships. Huxley and Flapjack are very different characters and yet enjoy a close friendship. Whilst Huxley brings Flapjack out of his comfort zone and enables him to be more adventurous, there is also scope for gentle discussions about listening to the ideas and feelings of others with the more impetuous or dominant! Whilst Huxley and Flapjack’s adventures never lead them into any real or lasting harm, there are times when Huxley should ‘look before he leaps’!
As well as being very appealing, the illustrations offer plenty of additional information and ‘clues’ about what is going on in the text. Reactions to Huxley’s guitar playing, Flapjack’s many facial expressions and the duo’s final task before they head home are brilliantly captured in this way. Perfect for cuddling up and sharing, the book also falls neatly into bridging the gap between picture books and longer reads!
Huxley and Flapjack: Wild West Escape
Alan MacDonald, illustrated by Francesca Gambatesa
Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1788957403
You can read my review of ‘Trouble at Sea’ here and ‘Race to the Rescue’ here.
Murder at Christmas
Grace is delighted when she arrives in Bath to spend Christmas with her mum and younger brother, Billy. Although her dad won’t be with them, they will be staying at the hotel owned by their mum’s twin sister, Aunt Mollie. But when a body is found on the stairs and their mum disappears, Grace and Billy start to worry that everything is not as it seems. Together with their new friends, Doug and Olive, they start to hunt for clues, determined to find their mum and solve the murder in time for Christmas.
You can always rely on Fleur Hitchcock for a well-written, compelling adventure and ‘Murder at Christmas’ is no exception! Perfectly pitched for young readers and offering plenty of twists and turns, this festively themed mystery is every bit as enjoyable as her other books.
There is a wonderful warmth to this story! It is a joy to read about such a loving, close-knit family, including siblings who are so fond of one another. Instantly likeable, Grace is a very relatable character who, finding herself plunged into a mystery, tries to balance looking after her little brother with coping with their mother’s disappearance. She shows herself to be resourceful and determined despite feeling the odd twinge of self-doubt. Billy is also a well developed character and, although she goes missing part way through, Mum is also a real presence in the story instead of a ‘token’ grown-up’.
The action is brilliantly plotted with plenty of red herrings, twists, double dealing and a very satisfying conclusion. Those who know Bath will really enjoy recognising the familiar features and locations of that beautiful city which all adds a sense of realism to the story.
This would make an excellent class story for UKS2 with plenty to discuss and enjoy, encouraging children to predict and deduce as they spot clues and interpret the evidence. It is also the perfect story to recommend to those looking for something to challenge their thinking or for those who enjoy a thoroughly good adventure. Whatever the reason, ‘Murder at Christmas’ offers an excellent read for the coming festive season!
Murder at Christmas
Fleur Hitchcock
Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805132240
You can read my review of ‘Murder at Snowfall’ here, ‘Murder at Wintertide’ here, ‘Waiting for Murder’ here and ‘Murder in Midwinter’ here and ‘Mouse Heart’ here
The Search for Our Cosmic Neighbours
Commander Julia and the crew of the Mission Star Drifter have been searching for signs of life in the universe for ten years. It is beginning to feel like a fruitless mission and relations on board ship are becoming a little strained. They decide to visit one last planet and initially, this seems like all the other harsh, lonely, cold planets which they have been to until their dog, Khan, draws their attention to some yellow beings who open the explorers’ eyes to new beauties and new wonders.
‘The Search for Our Cosmic Neighbours’ is another beautiful and thought-provoking book from Chloe Savage.
The delicately coloured illustrations burst with beguiling details, making the book a joy to linger over and explore. Cross sectional diagrams of the spaceship allow readers to observe life on board ship whilst other illustrations allow readers to be in on the joke and notice that there is life on this ‘desolate wasteland’ before the crew does. The spaceship itself is oddly human, its ‘face’ reflecting a whole range of emotions as the adventure continues.
The story offers the potential for discussing a whole range of topics, making it a wonderful choice for sharing with a class. Having initially been filled with enthusiasm for their mission, the lack of success leads the crew to become disenchanted with their task; however, ultimately, their patience is rewarded. Relationships between crew members become tense due to their close confinement with little things being blown out of all proportion. Initially, the Star Drifters fail to appreciate the space creatures’ way of life, showing how cultures can misunderstand each other, but eventually, they come to appreciate their world and enjoy simply appreciating how wonderful it is to be alive and enjoy the moment rather than searching for a practical purpose. Plenty to ponder on whilst enjoying this lovely story!
The Big Bad Wolf Murder
Playing ‘Tooth and Claw’ with her team means everything to Ruby Calvino. The youngest competitor in the championships, she is determined to prove her worth and defeat Alarick, the undefeated wolf. However, when Alarick drops dead in the middle of the game, Ruby finds herself accused of murder. Desperate to prove her innocence and find the real murderer, Ruby teams up with Fillan, a wolf-cub accused of being her accomplice, and together, they go on the run, pursued by the police…and a mysterious wolf who is determined to hunt them down.
A great lover of fairy tales, I am always a bit anxious when these tale are ‘re-imagined’; however, both in ‘The Beanstalk Murder’ and now in ‘The Big Bad Wolf Murder’, P G Bell has created brilliant stories, full of nods to the tales they draw on whilst being highly original and entertaining.
There is so much I love about this one that it is hard to know where to start! The Netherburg Reds- Roselyn , Akako (meaning ‘red’), Voss (meaning ‘fox’) and of course, Ruby, have all been named to remind the reader of Little Red Riding Hood in the original story as they try to escape the big, bad wolf, Alarick, in the game of ‘Tooth and Claw’. Other names have also been carefully chosen: reporters Charlotte Grimm and Wilhelm Jacobs named for the Brothers Grimm who collected the story in the 19th century; Fillan meaning ‘little wolf’; Marceline meaning’little warrior’; Hardulph meaning ‘brave wolf’ and so on. These little details all add to the brilliant development of the story, offering plenty to discuss and inspire.
Both Ruby and Fillan are excellent characters, very different personalities who come to understand each other very well and work together as a team. Fillan is far more nervous and reserved than Ruby, who tends to be impetuous and headstrong. The story also highlights how easily prejudice and stereotyping can shape how individuals are seen. Gentle Fillan longs to be a chef, something which Ruby finds funny, making the assumption that all wolves are raw meat eaters. Alarick played on the stereotypes which make wolves appear dangerous and bad for his role in the arena, perpetuating these ideas- but perhaps not considering the impact this would have on his fellow wolves.
‘The Big Bad Wolf Murder’ would make an excellent class story, offering plenty to discuss whilst the pacy plot and murder mystery would engage and excite. The opening alone would have even the liveliest class completely captivated and desperate for more!
Can’t wait for the next one!
The Big Bad Wolf Murder
P G Bell
Usborne ISBN: 978-1836040743
You can read my review of ‘The Beanstalk Murder’ here.
The Legend of Viking Thunder
With Uncle Emmett missing and on the run from the Council of Keys, Sim and Jeopardy are determined to find him. Their quest leads them to Viking Norway and a mission to prevent the mythical Gjallarhorn, believed to signal the coming of Ragnarök, from falling into the wrong hands.
I absolutely adored ‘Hunt for the Golden Scarab’, the first Time Keys adventure, and so ‘The Legend of Viking Thunder’ didn’t even make it to the TBR pile, but was read immediately! A pacy, thoroughly enjoyable adventure, it is also rich in history and a love of music.
The idea of time ‘doors’ will make readers look at any ancient door they meet with new eyes and the story leads to some very specific locations which are described in tempting detail, showing that history is everywhere and that, although we might not all be able to pass through time, these links to the past can be easily found and investigated! The level of historical detail woven into each story is incredible- Viking in this adventure, Egyptian in the last- effortlessly enriching knowledge of the period and piquing interest. I can’t wait to see where they explore next- Italy from the sneak peak of the next book added at the end of this one!
Sim, Jeopardy and Nelson continue to work as an excellent team with the adults, Sim’s mum, Calli, and Jeopardy’s dad, Emmett, playing a main part in the action, unlike many children’s books where grown-ups are killed off early! More is discovered about Jeopardy in this story- her relationship with her father and her skills as a time key- but we also learn more about Sim’s father and how he (Sim) differs from the others.
Full of action and adventure, this would make an excellent class story to engage and excite children. Although part of a series, this could be read in isolation as through a diary entry and a letter information is given which sets the scene, filling the reader in on the previous events. Skilful writing, compelling story line, great illustrations- it’s a brilliant read!
Time Keys: The Legend of Viking Thunder
M G Leonard, illustrated by Manuel Sumberac
Macmillan ISBN: 978-1035005987
You can read my review of ‘Hunt for the Golden Scarab’ here.
Small Wonder
Tick lives in a secluded cabin at the edge of Ellia with his little brother, Leaf, and their horse, Pebble. Since their Grandfather died, Tick has taken on the responsibility for looking after them all and is trying to prepare for the approaching winter when they see thousands of warships, coming across the water from the Kingdom of Drene, their deadly enemy. Tick knows that he has only six moons to get them to the safely of King’s Keep, a mighty fortress built by the previous ruler of Ellia, Good King Avery. Pursued by a ruthless Hunter, a deadly Drene assassin, they set off on an incredible journey, full of peril, to reach safety.
‘Small Wonder’ is an outstanding adventure story. Pace perfect, it will keep readers on the edge of their seat whilst cheering on Tick, his brother, Leaf, and, of course, the incredible Pebble.
Told from Tick’s perspective, it is very easy to empathise with this young lad as he grieves for the loss of his grandfather and tries to honour his last words. He questions himself, worrying that he is not good enough, not strong enough and yet, at every turn the reader sees him make kind, thoughtful decisions and constantly strive to do his best. Initially, although he loves Leaf, Tick feels the burden of responsibility, but as the story progresses their brotherly bond, their love for one another, deepens and is a joy.
Each character is skilfully developed so much so that even though their Grandfather dies before the book begins, he feels like a real presence, a significant personality in the story. Despite meeting with some unpleasant and evil characters on the way, Tick remains honourable, true to his grandfather’s wishes and so deserving of the fate which awaits him.
There is plenty of tension as the story romps along, but there are also tender moments and touches of humour as well. I love Ross Montgomery’s writing, but this might just be my new favourite of his books! It would make an excellent class story- except I can’t see any class letting the teacher stop reading!
Small Wonder
Ross Montgomery
Walker ISBN: 978-1529526127
You can read my review of ‘Spellstone’ here, Penguin Huddle here and The Thing at 52 here.
Whoosh!
Having had the most wonderful dreams full of ice cream, Boy wakes and asks Grandad if they can have ice cream for breakfast. Ready to set off at last, they cycle for ages only to find that the ice cream van has sold out. Undeterred, they concoct a plan, create a flying bicycle and whoosh off to Ice-cream Mountain…
The latest book about Boy and Grandad, ‘Whoosh!’ is another joyful story from Sam Usher, celebrating creativity and imagination.
At the heart of these stories is the wonderfully warm relationship between Boy and Grandad as they share their adventures. A gentle sense of camaraderie and contentment permeates the whole story from their trip preparations to their return home. They even have the same taste in red and white stripey socks! Content in each others company, they start and end the day together, looking forward to more shared adventures.
Their adventure- setting off to find ice cream, creating their flying bike, flying to Ice-cream Mountain and avoiding a shower of sprinkles before returning triumphantly with a cargo of ice-cream to share- is a perfect blend of the real and the imagined. Children will enjoy studying the labelled diagrams shown on the endpapers and perhaps designing their own flying machine - or using their imagination to transform a bicycle into something else!
And then there’s the ice cream! What could be nicer than a tasty treat whilst reading, whether experimenting with different flavours and combinations or creating home made ice cream to share and enjoy!
The illustrations are so lovely- full of details- and lend themselves to repeated exploring, with opportunities for children to create their own stories as they enjoy them. Sure to become a firm favourite, ‘Whoosh!’ is a delightful read!
Whoosh!
Sam Usher
Templar ISBN: 978-1800786783
Publishing on the 11th September 2025
The Museum of Lost Umbrellas
Since her mum passed away, Dilly Kyteler has been living with a foster family. However, a relative has now been located and Dilly now finds herself on her way to live with her great aunt Florence in Ollipest. Although her aunt is somewhat formidable, Dilly is delighted to find that her aunt’s best friend, Digdee, has a grandson, Callum, who is staying with her and when Parsley, an Irish Wolfhound, comes bounding out of the sea, Dilly even has the dog she has always longed for. Dilly and Callum soon discover the Museum of Lost Umbrellas, which is reopening and attracting a lot of attention from the locals. It quickly becomes clear that something is going on in Ollipest and that magic has divided the community. When a stranger arrives and starts to garner support for the ‘no magic’ movement, Dilly and Callum know they have to act.
‘The Museum of Lost Umbrellas’ is one of those books which captivates readers from the outset. My clumsy attempt at a summary really does not do it justice!
Dilly is such a likeable character, very easy to relate to and empathise with, and readers will enjoy discovering the magic and wonder she uncovers as she learns about her abilities and those of the people around her, many of whom have wonderful names! Having lost so much, Dilly is delighted to have found a place where she feels she truly belongs, making her fears she might lose this all the more poignant. Her friendship with Callum- and the devotion she shares with Parsley - add to her sense of having found a home, despite the initial frostiness of her great aunt. Even the house- Tail End Cottage- seeks to make her welcome- and offers one of the most amazing libraries ever!
Showing how manipulation and fear can lead to mob rule, the villagers are persuaded to burn books and destroy magical objects, blind to the machinations of James Lambe, a chilling villain with a very personal grudge. The hypocrisy of those using magic whilst claiming to abhor it is also exposed! Along with Shelley, the owner of the Museum of Lost Umbrellas and Nix, a boy who is stuck in the form of a parrot, Dilly and Callum rise to the challenge of freeing the island from his spell and allowing magic to flourish once more.
The world of magic and magical practices created in this book is delightfully imaginative and full of fun. As this is the first in ‘The Cloud Witch Chronicles’, I look forward to seeing what comes next for Dilly and her friends.
The Museum of Lost Umbrellas
Marie-Louise Fitzpatrick
Faber ISBN: 978-0571385720
The Odyssey of Phoebe Quilliam
Phoebe has inherited her love of art and stories from her grandmother, Cass, spending much time with her in the sunny studio where they paint and share Greek myths. But Cass is struggling to remember things and has to go into a home. When Cass’s home is sold, Phoebe pays it one last visit and is swept into a strange adventure. Finding herself on a beach in Greece, she meets Leander, a boy who is on a quest to find out what happened to his father, one of King Odysseus’s shipbuilders, after the Trojan Wars. She also meets Hattie, her grandmother’s childhood friend, who sets Phoebe on a quest of her own- to defeat a monster and find her own way home.
This was a one-sitting read! Engaging from the first page, ‘The Odyssey of Phoebe Quilliam’ combines a thrilling adventure story with the poignant worries of a child coping with dementia in a loved one.
Like many children, Phoebe takes on worries which should not be hers, in this case, believing that she is responsible for her grandmother’s decline, that she should have told her mother that Cass was forgetting things. The close bond she and Cass share is beautifully captured, making both her grandmother’s decline and Phoebe’s feelings of guilt and loss all the more touching. The family are also dealing the the loss of Phoebe’s father who died whilst on a rescue for the RNLI and the fact that Cass has no memory of this, believing her son to still be alive, only adds to the family’s pain. This all makes the story sound very bleak- but it isn’t. Phoebe’s personal circumstances frame her adventure which is full of hope and healing… and action and adventure.
And there is plenty of action and adventure! Against a background of Greek myth, Phoebe and Leander embark on their quests, finding support and comfort in one another as they face dangers and dilemmas, overcoming their own fears and finding their way home once more. There are plenty of monsters, an epic sea voyage, excitement and peril in this imaginative and engrossing book!
The perfect candidate for story time selection, this book would make an excellent class read, engaging children with Greek myths and offering plenty to discuss and enjoy.
The Odyssey of Phoebe Quilliam
Annelise Gray
Zephyr ISBN: 978-1035911011
Published 11th September 2025
You can read my review of ‘Rider of the Storm’ here.
Alice With a Why
It’s March 1919 and Alyce -with a why- is living with Alice, her grandmother, who she feels is somewhat odd. Alice used to tell wonderful stories about rabbit holes and strange croquet games, but since Alyce’s father died in the war this no longer happens. However, when an invitation to a tea party hits her full in the face, Alyce realises there might have been some truth in these stories as she finds herself falling into Wonderland where The Sun King and the Queen of the Moon are fighting over a stolen hour. Alyce must solve Wonderland’s problems before she can find her way home.
‘Alyce With a Why’ is a brilliant story which builds on the world of Wonderland, created by Lewis Carroll. The story has delicious echoes of the humour, characters and charming wackiness of the original whilst offering new characters and a delightful quirkiness all of its own.
Alyce, heroine of this tale, has much in common with Alice, her grandmother, giving a feeling of continuity, but is no carbon copy, being open to her adventure in a different way. Constantly feeling she is following in Alice’s footsteps, she is keen to do her best and find a way to stop the war in Wonderland.
Both Alyce and her grandmother are somewhat lost in their grief after the death of Alyce’s father. Alyce’s adventure in Wonderland allows them to connect once more, keeping his memory alive by talking about him once more.
An absolute joy, this would make a brilliant class story and may lead new readers to a classic favourite!
Alice With a Why
Anna James, illustrated by Matthew Land
Harper Collins ISBN: 978-0008773823
You can read my review of ‘Chronicles of Whetherwhy: The Age of Enchantment’ here.
The Wood Where Magic Grows
Iggy is facing a lot of changes. After his mum had a ‘whirlwind romance’ with Mitchell, he is living in a new house and has a new, very lively little brother, Cal, who he is sharing a room with. Although Iggy isn’t very confident in his new role as big brother, Cal is full of enthusiasm for everything so soon the pair begin to explore both their new home and the woods surrounding it where strange things seem to happen. Wooden animals in the house seem to move and the trees and plants seem to grow at an amazing rate. They meet Mae, who has recently moved in next door and the three team up, journeying further in to the woods where they are guided and helped by the trees. However, much as they are having fun, they discover that the woods are suffering and if the trees die, the wooden animals, which their landlady, Sylvie, has carved from pieces of wood from the trees, will also perish. Can they restore nature’s balance before it’s too late?
‘The Wood Where Magic Grows’ is the first in a new series from Andy Shepherd, who gave us the wonderful ‘Boy Who Grew Dragons’ books. It is perfect for children who love nature and exploring the world around them, those who see the ‘faces’ in trees and hunt for nature’s treasures.
Iggy is such a lovely character with a strong sense of right and wrong. He is keen to do his best, taking is new role as big brother very seriously, but constantly worrying that he is not quite up to the job. Cal is impulsive and bursting with energy whilst Iggy is more reserved, drawing on a deep well of patience and kindness in his dealings with the younger child where others might have snapped! It is lovely to see such a positive portrayal of a blended family who are making a happy, new life together as they learn more about each other.
With Mae, the brothers quickly establish a firm friendship. They accept the fact that she has hearing aids, quickly adapting their speaking to make sure she can follow them and she makes no comment about the birthmark which curls across Iggy’s cheek. The story encourages empathy and understanding without making a big deal of these things.
There is real joy in this story- friendship, close family, love of nature, imagination, adventure- all captured in the lovely illustrations. It would make a brilliant class story, offering plenty to discuss and enjoy, with more stories to come.
The Wood Where Magic Grows
Andy Shepherd, illustrated by Ellie Snowdon
Piccadilly Press ISBN: 978-1800785717