Skulkmoor

When Aunt Carmelia fails to notice which twin, Clementine or Rosie, was born first, the girls find themselves pitted against one another in a feud to decide which should become the heir. As sibling rivalry turns to hatred, they build a great wall to divide the house, setting off a family feud and when the twins are found dead, the enmity between the two sides of the family intensifies. With their grandchildren caught up in the hatred, cousins Iris and Ted are faced with competing against one another for the inheritance or the estate passing to another living relative. As they pit their wits against one another, family secrets and lies are exposed, forcing them to work together to uncover the truth.

If you are looking for an exciting mystery, then ‘Skulkmoor’ is essential reading! Clever plotting, a twisty trail of clues, hints of humour and feuding family all make this a thoroughly enjoyable, highly engaging read.

The house and its inhabitants are vividly described, careful details adding much to the story as the mystery unfolds. Iris and Ted have grown up loathing each other, caught up in the family feud and their feelings of righteous indignation that the other side of the family has got away with murder. Told from the perspective of each in turn, dark secrets and skulduggery are exposed , leading to a very exciting and satisfying conclusion.

‘Skulkmoor’ would make an excellent class story with plenty to discuss and debate along the way as more and more clues -and red herrings - are revealed. The tale shows how misinformation, misdirection and being blind about the motivations and actions of others in the light of preconceptions can lead to being horribly wrong about people, offering plenty to talk about whilst enjoying what is an excellent read!

This is one of those stories which is hard to review without giving too much away, but memorable characters, an intriguing setting and a brilliantly tangled puzzle to solve make it one not to be missed! (And make sure you remove the dust jacket from the hardback to reveal a map of Skulkmoor Manor beneath!)

Skulkmoor

Hana Tooke, illustrated by Ayesha L. Rubio

Puffin ISBN: 978-0241635827

Lost Evangeline

When a shoemaker discovers a tiny girl in the toe of a boot, he raises her with love and care. Having named her ‘Evangeline’ - a name that spoke of possibilities- he shares with her his dreams of exploration and adventure. His wife, on the other hand, feels that there is something unnatural about the little girl and is jealous of the closeness of their relationship and the dreams they share. When she sells Evangeline to a rich old lady, the wife loses everything as the shoemaker leaves to search for his child and never returns. Meanwhile, Evangeline, who has escaped with the aid of a marmalade cat, is also seeking her father in an impossibly big world.

With elements reminiscent of ‘Thumbelina’ and ‘Pinocchio’ , ‘Lost Evangeline’ is a delightful story of enduring love, kindness and adventurous spirit.

The shoemaker has always longed for adventure with his dreams thwarted first by his father and then by his wife. When Evangeline comes into his life, he has someone to share his hopes with, a kindred spirit full of curiosity and wonder. Their separation is the catalyst for his becoming a sailor, determined to continue seeking his lost daughter. Evangeline, tiny though she is, is equally set on finding the shoemaker. Encountering both good and evil characters on her journey, she remains positive and full of courage, an inspiration as she sings her songs of freedom.

The feeling of a fairy tale is enhanced by the very atmospheric illustrations which show the spirals of song which weave their way through the story right to the end. Although there is no instant happy ending with father and daughter reunited once more, it is through the final illustration which the reader is left with a thread of hope that this might yet happen.

I feel this could be a ‘Marmite’ story, provoking strong reactions in its readers, but I loved it!

Lost Evangeline: A Norendy Tale

Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Sophie Blackall

Walker ISBN: 978-1529525892

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.

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 Last Bard

When Will’s father dies, he and his mother, Mary, have to move in with Will’s Uncle Claude and his cousin, Jon. Treated like servants by Claude, who never loses an opportunity to remind them that they are only there because of his ‘kindness’, they are relieved to leave his home for a while whilst they sort out Will’s grandfather’s flat in a complex called Arden Heights. Here, Will meets Ani, another occupant, who is determined to save the flats from being sold off for redevelopment- and sees Will as someone who can help her. Will also makes a curious discovery amongst his grandfather’s possessions- a copy of The Complete Works of Shakespeare which contains some of the characters from the Bard’s plays. With their ‘help’, can Will find the courage he needs to turn his life around?

‘The Last Bard’ is bursting with humour, heart and lots of Shakespearean references, making it a fabulous read!

Will is such a relatable character. His grief at the loss of his father combined with his new living conditions make it impossible not to empathise with him, making the reader really invested in his story. His relationship with his mother is beautifully portrayed and seeing her diminished and bullied by her brother, Will’s Uncle Claude, only adds to his pain as he keeps secrets from her, attempting to lessen her burden. There are plenty of poignant moments in the story, allowing for discussion and reflection, but these are balanced by a comedy of errors as his new Shakespearean friends get to work!

Will is not the only brilliantly captured character! His mum, Mary, is just wonderful and each of the inhabitants of Arden Heights are well developed and believable. Uncle Claude and Jon are thoroughly nasty pieces of work, highlighting the complexity of some family relationships, yet others whom seem less likeable are given more depth as Will comes to know and understand them. Ani is a force of nature- outspoken, determined and courageous, she also has a more complex ‘back story’ which is gradually uncovered as the story progresses.

The Shakespearean element of the story is pure genius! Anyone familiar the Shakespeare’s life and plays will delight in spotting the links and anyone who is not is sure to be tempted to find out all about them! Even the chapter headings and some names draw on his works! As Puck, Lady Macbeth, Yorick’s skull and Juliet, the remaining characters trapped in his copy of ‘The Complete Works’ strive to help Will save Arden Heights, things go horribly and hysterically wrong and yet allow Will to quietly observe, listen and help in his own way, making sure ‘all’s well that end’s well’!

There is so much to love in this story that I felt quite disappointed when it ended. Not because of a poor ending (quite the contrary!), but because I was enjoying it so much! Although this would make an excellent class story, sensitivity to the possible experiences of listeners is essential.

The Last Bard

Maz Evans

Chicken House ISBN: 978-1913696900

Livia in Rome

Due to her grandmother -Nina- having an accident, sixteen-year-old Livia is delighted to be spending the summer in Rome, working in the family bar. Being Scottish-Italian, she hopes she will find the place she really belongs in Italy. However, it seems that local boy, Giulio, has stolen her place in Nina’s affections and working at the bar and he quickly becomes Livia’s nemesis. But as time passes and Livia makes new friends and discovers family secrets, she comes to realise that maybe Giulio is not the enemy she thought he was…

Bursting with the flavours of Rome, teen romance, family and friendship, ‘Livia in Rome’ is the perfect summer read- for anyone! It is beautifully written, completely engaging and is guaranteed to make you want to visit Rome.

Livia is such a brilliant character. Told from her perspective, the book is rich in her humorous observations as she navigates being both Scottish and Italian and tries to work out where she fits, encouraging empathy with her situation, one which many children are familiar with. The simmering tension between her and Giulio is so well captured as she tries to remain immune to his charms and discover what he is up to whilst the reader is cheering them on every step of the way until the very satisfying conclusion is reached!

Evocative descriptions bring Rome to life- not just the ‘touristy’ Rome, but the real Rome and its people- in a way which is sure to encourage readers to want to discover more and explore this fascinating city for themselves.

The book is absolutely perfect for younger teens as well as older ones. It is quite simply an excellent read, showing the joys of friendship, developing relationships , working as a community and finding your place in the world. It should be at the top of everyone’s TBR piles - a perfect summer read!

Livia in Rome

Bruna De Luca

Chicken House ISBN: 978-1917171113

Runaways

Jamie and July are both 11 and both live in London, but their lives are very different. Both are desperate to get away from home- Jamie to escape something he has done and July to find help for her mother. Each is wary and suspicious of others, but somehow the two form a partnership as they head to the coast. But escaping real life is impossible…

‘Runaways’ is one of the best books I have read recently. Tackling an incredibly serious issue, E L Norry has produced a compelling and satisfying read which both allows readers to empathise with Jamie and July and offers the perfect starting point for conversations around what home means. It is beautifully and sensitively written and I’m not ashamed to say I cried in places.

Elements of both Jamie and July’s stories will ring true for many children. July’s mother has had issues and July often feels that she is taking the adult role in their relationship. When an old friend- who July thinks is a bad influence- comes back into their lives, July is desperate to protect her mother and seeks help from a past foster parent, Bee. The relationship between July and her mother- however flawed- is full of love, but captures how things sometimes for some people don’t go according to plan and can have terrible consequences for all involved. Jamie comes from a more affluent background, but is struggling with his mother’s new partner and the absence of his own father. There is plenty of money and comfort, but he feels he is not listened to, leading to an incident which leaves him to panic. He flees his home in search of his  Aunty Liz, someone he feels will listen.

Alternating chapters gives each child a voice, allowing the reader to empathise with their actions as they experience the potential pitfalls and dangers of leaving home- being exploited, robbed, finding somewhere safe… E L Norry manages to handle these threats in an age appropriate way yet leaves the reader in no doubt as to how real these dangers are. However, this story is ultimately one of hope, one with a (two!) happy ending which leaves the reader uplifted and optimistic for Jamie and July’s futures.

I really hope this book gains the recognition it deserves. Beautifully written, deeply moving, it is essential reading for everyone.

Runaways

E.L. Norry

Bloomsbury ISBN: 978-1526683335

You can read my review of ‘Fablehouse’ here

The Wild Robot on the Island

One day, a strange new creature arrived on an island. It was a shiny robot named Roz, who decided that the island was where she belonged and so set about learning how to survive from watching the animals. Many became her friends and when Ros found an egg, she cared for the little gosling, Brightbill, which hatched from it, becoming his mother. As the seasons changed, Brightbill’s instincts told him to leave and fly south, leaving his mother and the island behind until they were reunited once more.

‘The Wild Robot on the Island’ is a simplified version of ‘The Wild Robot’, the first in a series of three books about Roz and her animal friends on the island. These lovely books reflect on caring for the environment, family and friendship and the beauty of nature and the essence of this has been captured in this beautiful picture book.

From the endpapers showing a crate falling from a container ship, the illustrations add plenty of details which enrich and develop the simplified text. Those familiar with the original will recognise the curious otters cautiously creeping over the rocks to investigate the crate, for example, but there is no need to have read the chapter books to fall in love with big-hearted Roz and her friends. Each spread glows with colour as the seasons change, time passes and Roz finds peace and happiness on her island home.

The story lends itself perfectly to encouraging children to closely observe the world around them, noticing and enjoying the changes in nature, how creatures adapt to their environment and with the passing seasons. There are many ways which teachers could use this lovely book to support and enrich different areas of the curriculum or as a class story to spark discussion or inspire children to tell stories of their own. It would also allow children who are not ready to sustain the novels to access the story, although, obviously, some of the emotional depth and detail of the original are lost.

Warm and wonderful!

The Wild Robot on the Island

Peter Brown

Piccadilly ISBN: 978-1835872645

The Doughnut Club

Quinn has two mums and a younger brother, Olly. Both children share a donor- not a dad- but have different mums. Although surrounded by a loving, supportive family, Quinn always feels like the odd one out, not fitting in with the outdoorsy, adventurous rest. When their mums announce that Quinn and Olly have other donor siblings- diblings as some call them- around the world, Quinn is determined to find out about them and see whether she can find a family member more like herself.

‘Family’ means different things to different people and I found ‘The Doughnut Club’ a really thought-provoking and informative read, sure to spark questions and conversations. As far as I am aware, I have never taught a donor-conceived child, but according to the author’s note at the end of the book, predictions show that by 2023 there will be ‘an average of one to two…in every English state primary school’. This story will make an excellent addition to libraries and bookshelves to sensitively and thoughtfully support understanding.

Quinn is absolutely happy with having two mums- her family may be different to some peoples, but it is what it is and she sees no reason why anyone should question this or make comments about it. I love the portrayal of this family unit: even though Quinn feels she is the odd one out in terms of looks and the ways she likes to spend her time, there is a really tender depiction of the family group and their bond. Written from her perspective, readers are really able to understand her curiosity about her other donor siblings and trying to discover her place in the world as they watch her go behind her parents’ backs, jump to conclusions and fret over possible ‘diblings’.

Ultimately, she realises that she has exactly the family she needs and opens up to them about her love of different things, bringing the family even closer together. In coming to this realisation, she is partly helped by the very lovely Fred, an extremely kind and understanding older man who is holidaying in the same place, who explains to Quinn how he and his wife share different interests and being happy to do their own thing, have become happier as a couple since sharing this fact with each other. I love how this gentle wisdom is shared and the sweet friendship which develops between Quinn and Fred.

The story is both heart-felt and heart-warming, often humorous and, above all, thoroughly enjoyable.

The Doughnut Club

Kristina Rahim

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805133667

The Mizzy Mysteries: A Skeleton in the Closet

Mizzy dreams of being a detective - ‘think Sherlock Holmes crossed with Rachel Bailey’- and is determined to let nothing stand in her way, not her Down syndrome nor her very protective family. Whilst staying with her cousins, Mizzy longs for a mystery to solve and finds one in the shape of her great aunt Jane’s missing diaries which seem to indicate that lady died in suspicious circumstances. Mizzy is on the case…

I love a good mystery and ‘A Skeleton in the Closet’ fits the bill perfectly!

Mizzy is a fabulous character. Resilient and determined, she knows she has good instincts for detective work and is positive that she can succeed. The first person viewpoint allows readers an insight into her inner worries: her fears about swimming and escalators; her frustrations- her clumsiness, her family treating her ‘like a baby’; and her memories of people like Judy Mitcham at school who laugh at her for being different, encouraging empathy and understanding of this lively, loveable girl. Every time her investigations lead her to a dead end, she picks herself up and starts over, claiming to her family that she is doing a school project on her family. Resourceful and tenacious, Mizzy keeps going, even in the face of opposition. A great role model for all aspiring detectives!

Any Agatha Christie lover will quickly spot the similarities between Great Aunt Jane Maypole and Miss Jane Marple. Not only are their family trees full of familiar names, but place names - St. Jude’s Junction (St. Mary Mead), Such Pelham (Much Benham), Gossington Avenue -play on the originals too.

The plot is full of twists and red herrings, ultimately leading to a very satisfying conclusion which neatly ties everything together and proves that Mizzy the Marvellous is not to be underestimated! I really look forward to finding out what she gets up to next!

The Mizzy Mysteries: A Skeleton in the Closet

Claire Hatcher-Smith

Farshore ISBN: 978-0008645571

Our Love

What a beautiful book! ‘Our Love’ is a delightful celebration of the love of parents for their children- indeed, it could be seen as the love of any adult for any child in their care! The illustrations perfectly capture that sense of unconditional love and protection which young ones should inspire.

Using the animal kingdom to show this bond of affection, there are, amongst others, pictures of nesting birds, a lion with its cub, a joey peeking from its mother’s pouch and koalas cuddling in a tree. Each illustration is presented in warm, fuzzy tones which enhance the feeling of togetherness being enjoyed by the creatures on the pages. For little ones, these illustrations might also spark conversations about these animals, offering opportunities to name them and their young, how they care for them and where they live…but this is all additional pleasure! The story can simply be shared as one might share ‘Guess How much I Love You’.

The end pages open out into a double-page gatefold featuring all the animals, allowing children and their adults to spot their favourites and perhaps, recall the way that love was expressed on those pages. The gentle, repetitive language used and the sentiment make this perfect for snuggling up with at bedtimes and it is sure to be an ‘again! again!’ book in many households.

Our Love

Fatima Ordinola

Post Wave ISBN: 978-1836270089

Leo and Ralph

Ralph is Leo’s best friend. The two are inseparable, sharing a deep fascination for space and that comfortable understanding which only comes with a close friendship. But Ralph is imaginary and Leo’s parents feel it is time for him to say goodbye to Ralph as the family is moving to a different town. It’s a time for new beginnings…but it’s not always that easy to move on.

‘Leo and Ralph’ is a lovely, gentle story which focuses on family and friendship. It is a book which highlights how confusing school and navigating the world can be for those who see things a little differently, enjoy their own pace and whose minds are full of their own trains of thought. Leo is a delightful little boy, who finds a best friend created by his own imagination with whom he shares the things he loves.

Leo’s family- his mother, father and little sister, Peg, all try to support Leo in their own ways. They offer well intentioned advice and Leo does try to act on this. However, he finds his own solution to the ‘problem’ of friends by creating Ralph. The author skilfully explores Leo’s feelings of confusion and anxiety as he tries to please his family, feels guilty when he can’t and then his relief when he ‘finds’ Ralph. The warmth and affection of their relationship is a joy.

However, the story is not just about an imaginary friend. In his own time and in his own way, Leo forms a friendship which is just as strong and affectionate as that he shared with Ralph. Although initially he struggles to decide between his two friends, he is able to move on and appreciate a friend who helps him to learn new things whilst listening to and appreciating the things which Leo has to share. Their differences help to make their friendship strong!

I loved this story, and like many teachers, recognise Leo in many children I have taught. ‘Leo and Ralph’ would make a lovely class story, offering reassurance and comfort to some whilst developing empathy and understanding in others.

Leo and Ralph

Peter Carnavas

Pushkin Press ISBN: 978-1782695233

Published on the 13th February 2025

Inkbound: Meticulous Jones and the Skull Tattoo

On her tenth birthday, Meticulous- Metty- Jones, like other 10-year-olds, receives a magical tattoo on her hand which will indicate her fate. However, her excitement in discovering her destiny is dimmed when she sees an ink-black skull, held from underneath by a hand in a violet glove indicating her fate is to be a murderer. Hidden away by her father, Moral Jones, in a remote Welsh farmhouse, Metty tries to come to terms with this, but when Moral disappears, her Aunt Magnificent takes her to the magical city of New London, assuring her that she- Magnificent- will find Metty’s father. But rumours of a mysterious, dangerous society, known as the Black Moths, make Metty wonder whether they are connected to her father’s disappearance and begin to investigate for herself.

There is so much to enjoy in ‘Meticulous Jones and the Skull Tattoo’ that is is hard to know exactly where to begin! It is a cracking read which bounds along at a pleasing pace, full of engaging characters and plenty of action. It’s quite amazing that I have managed to wait until now to review it!

Full of vim and vigour, Metty is a feisty character who shows courage and determination in the face of adversity and great love and loyalty to friends and family. She is an imperfect heroine, with strengths and flaws in equal measure, proving that our fates cannot be predestined, but made by our actions and reactions. As she comes to know Sundar, her aunt’s ward, they form a great partnership, their personalities complementing each other as their friendship develops. He is another very appealing character, enigmatic and cautious, the perfect foil to Metty’s impulsiveness. Faith O’Connell is another great character, once again proving the importance of forging your own path in life.

The world building is an absolute delight. Great attention to detail makes the story rich, increasing the reader’s enjoyment on every page. From the family names to the magic of ink, from the wonders of New London to the Dictionary of Fates, everything has been carefully thought about so the world flows seamlessly. It’s a world I look forward to returning to in future books!

Inkbound: Meticulous Jones and the Skull Tattoo

Philippa Leathley

Harper Collins ISBN: 978-0063376519

Published January 28th 2025

The Great Farm Rescue

Hannah and her family are facing tough times again as their landlord is threatening them with eviction and dad has had an accident. But Hannah is determined to save the farm once again by raising the money to buy it. Her family and friends rally round to support the endeavour, but how on earth will they raise over two million pounds?

This is the third story about Hannah and her wonderfully eccentric and loveable family. Every bit as enjoyable as the first two (‘The Secret Hen House Theatre’ and ‘The Farm Beneath the Water’), ‘The Great Farm Rescue’ pulls the books to a joyful conclusion, but could easily be read as a stand alone story.

When I was little, we used to stay on a farm in Devon where we helped to collect the eggs, feed the chicken and bring the cows in for milking. I am sure that my brothers and I were a far greater hindrance than a help, but we adored these holidays and still talk about them to this day. ‘The Great Farm Rescue’ captures all the joy we experienced on the farm, but Helen Peters cleverly weaves the problems faced by tenant farmers into the story, showing the reality of farming life and encouraging empathy and understanding in readers.

One of the greatest joys of this book is that it depicts a very real family with all their messy feelings and relationships, differences and quirks, but also the strong bond of love which means they are prepared to support each other and work together to save the home which they all love. Each family member is beautifully drawn, full of personality, and thoroughly endearing, and they all feel like old friends by the end of the book!

As well as trying to save the farm, Hannah has also landed her dream part as Hermia in ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ and she finds herself acting alongside Miranda, who she has previously had problems with. The enmity between the two girls is well handled, with tension building until things reach crisis point for Hannah. The final conclusion to this part of the story is both satisfying and realistic.

‘The Great Farm Rescue’ is a wonderfully warm and ‘wholesome’ story- I mean this in a really positive, way. It’s not sugary sweet, but good things do happen to good people and the combined power of community, friendship and a love of nature make great things happen. Brilliant story, beautifully written!

The Great Farm Rescue

Helen Peters

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805131175

You can read my review of ‘Anna at War’ here, ‘Evie’s Ghost’ here and ‘Friends and Traitors’ here.

The Suitcase

When a little boy is left at his grandparent’s for the summer holidays, he expects to be completely bored as nothing ever happens there and there is nothing to do. However, when searching the attic, he finds a suitcase, full of mysterious things and photos of people having incredible adventures and doing exciting things. Determined to find out who they are, he starts to investigate…

This is such a lovely story, perfect for helping children to appreciate their grandparents - and perhaps their parents- as ‘real’ people who have lived interesting and varied lives in their own right as well as being the ‘boring’ people they see day after day. Readers will love spotting all the clues hidden in plain sight and piecing together the solution whilst the young lad puzzles over the evidence. There is plenty here to amuse adults as well as children- a tape of ‘Dark Side of the Moon’ is labelled as possibly being some sort of spying equipment, for example!

The story would make an excellent starting point for developing children’s interest in their own family history, encouraging them to talk to relations and learn more about their lives and perhaps discovering new interests which they can share. For some family’s looking at the past might not be possible, but the story could lead to creating their own ‘suitcase’ of memorabilia of a holiday or day spent together (whether at home or away!), forging new memories and strengthening bonds across generations.

I could wax lyrical for hours about the fabulous illustrations - the antics of the cat, the before and after photos on the end papers, the links between the grandparents past and present lives- there is so much to notice and enjoy!

Heart-warming and joyful, ‘The Suitcase’ helps readers understand that other people might be more interesting that we give them credit for!

The Suitcase Daniela Sosa

Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1398518698

Knowing the Score

Coming home from her Y6 residential, Gemma is really looking forward to seeing her mum. It’s always been just the two of them and they are very close. Deep down, however, Gemma feels she would really like to get to know her Gran and her mum’s brother, Uncle Joe, a bit better, but a mysterious falling out between them and Gemma’s mother makes this impossible. But when her mother is invited on a free holiday with friends, Gemma sees this as a golden opportunity to uncover the truth and put her family back together again.

Family relationships can be difficult with long standing tensions, rivalries and estrangements seeming unfathomable to those on the peripheries. In this excellent story, Ros Roberts explores the complexities of family ‘politics’ in a gentle, relatable manner. Gemma is a very likeable, genuine little girl who has a very close, loving relationship with her mother, but is curious about other members of her family. Her uncle turns out to be a fun-loving, generous, kind man who is delighted to be forming a relationship with her, leaving Gemma even more confused about the secrets she feels her mother is hiding from her. Her reaction as she pieces things together is sensitively handled, enabling readers to empathise with her.

Gemma is not the only one to be experiencing some family difficulties. Uncle Joe’s relationship with his girlfriend, Lexi, and her daughter, Minxie and Minxie’s relationship with her parents show the complexities of blended families and children navigating a path between separated parents.

Tennis is new to Gemma and although initially reluctant, she decides to have a go and ends up discovering something new which she really enjoys. The story really shows the importance of the focus being on fun in sporting activities rather than children being driven by their own- or their parents’- ambitions.

There is so much to enjoy and explore here with children in upper KS2/ lower KS3. It is a lovely book, sensitively written and full of positivity and hope. Great read!

Knowing the Score

Ros Roberts

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1788956765

The Tree that Sang to Me

Since his older sister, Jen, left home, Kai has been struggling. Believing it all to be his fault, he can’t stop compulsively tugging at his hair, leaving sore patches, and his parents, consumed by their own feelings, seem unaware of his emotional turmoil. Life at home and at school feels impossible, so he seeks solace in the branches of a tree on a patch of wasteland where he feels he belongs. Here, he meets Sky, a girl with brown hair that hangs in her eyes, wearing bright blue Docs covered in tiny yellow flowers and an unexpected and healing friendship develops…

Of the many, many books I read, I can only review a selection and sometimes, I miss some which I have really enjoyed. Serena Molloy’s first book, ‘Wider than the Sea’ is one of these so I was determined to review ‘The Tree that Sang to Me’ which tempted me the moment I saw its beautiful cover by George Ermos.

As a great poetry lover, I expect a great deal from a novel told in verse! In ‘The Tree that Sang to Me’, Serena Molloy has created something very special, telling Kai’s heart wrenching story with great compassion and care, allowing the reader to understand and empathise with his feelings as they unfold. He tries so hard to be a ‘better’ version of himself to gain his parents’ attention, desperate for them to notice him whilst carrying the guilt of his ‘secret’. He is sure that it is his fault that his sister is not living at home (I will say no more about this so as not to spoil the story!) and is sure that she hates him.

Whilst carrying his burden of guilt and feelings of loneliness at home, Kai also has to navigate some unpleasant bullies at school. When his mother shaves his head due to his trichotillomania, Josh and the other boys call him ‘Buzz’, but Kai feels this is better than the mean words they hurl at Caleb, another boy in their class, who is the main focus for their spite. Kai’s confused feelings towards Caleb are sensitively captured as he (Kai) struggles with wishing to stand up for Caleb and feelings of self-preservation and guilt as he is relieved the negative attention isn’t focused on him. There is so much to think about and discuss here.

Sadly, there are many children who will identify with Kai in one, or indeed, both of these situations and his story may help them to navigate their own difficulties. Full of hope, the healing power of nature love and friendship, the story is ultimately up-lifting and affirming. It is such a joy to see a sympathetic portrayal of a teacher as well- Mr P encourages Kai to explore his feelings, causing Kai to utter ‘I don’t think someone has to die to make you feel like that’, a moment in the story which had me sobbing! I also love the way Jen introduces Kai to the story of ‘The Children of Lir’- ‘the thing with stories….sometimes just sometimes there’s bits of truth buried way down deep in them.’

Perfect for sharing as a class story, there is so much to recommend this lovely verse novel which would make a brilliant starting point, not only for much discussion, but also for encouraging children to express their own feelings in poetic form. Oh- and if you haven’t read ‘Wider than the Sea’, you really should read that too!

The Tree that Sang to Me

Serena Molloy

Hodder ISBN: 978-1444968439

Eyes that Weave the World’s Wonders

A little girl considers her family photos in which everyone wears matching clothes, shoes and smiles. But one feature doesn’t match- her eyes are not like those of any one else in the pictures. As she spends time with each of her parents, she observes and reflects upon their eyes and the bonds of love which bind them. However, she knows that somewhere there is someone with ‘eyes that kiss in the corners and glow like warm tea’- eyes just like hers- and she knows that her eyes spin stories as they connect her birth culture and her adoptive culture.

Lyrical text is framed by glowing illustrations in this gorgeous book which explores the feelings of a transracial adopted child as she considers her connection to the family she is with now and the family of her past. In an introductory note, one of the authors, Liz SoHyeon Kleinrock, frames the book in the context of her personal experience as a transracial adoptee, offering much to reflect upon for those with no direct experience of adoption and support for those who have, both child and adult. Although never specified, there are clues in the text/ illustrations which indicate that, like Liz, the adopted child is Korean.

As the little girl wonders, recalling fragments of memories, both real and imagined, the story supports the way to discussion of quite complex questions and emotions- the balancing and reconciling of two lives, the importance of recognising different cultures, the ‘what ifs?’ of a life unknown. Told through the child’s eyes, these feelings are all the more poignant. The illustrations are gorgeous, full of details to notice. Swallows, symbols of joy and comfort in Korean culture, lift from the pattern of her duvet cover, leading her through her memories. A picture on top of the piano shows a child in a hanbok, presumably the little girl in the one which ‘travelled with me between lives’.

Sensitive and warm, this is a book full of love.

Eyes that Weave the World’s Wonders

Joanna Ho with Liz Kleinrock, illustrated by Dung Ho

Harper Collins ISBN: 978-0063057777

You can read my review of ‘Eyes that Kiss in the Corners’ here.

Tiny Owl’s Scary Day

Tiny Owl doesn’t want to go to bed. She wants to explore the daytime, but Mummy Owl says it can be a scary time for a small owl. However, Tiny Owl is not to be deterred and sets off on an adventure.

I love Petr Horacek’s illustrations. They are so full of colour, energy and warmth, engaging little readers instantly- and Tiny Owl is a real joy! The story is a simple one as Tiny Owl boldly sets off on an adventure in the daytime. Initially, things are exciting, but readers will notice the dangers she fails to see as she explores. As she continues investigating, she is blissfully ignorant, not only of the perils she has escaped, but also of her mother’s protective presence in the background.

Children will enjoy joining in with the noises she hears as the story builds in a familiar pattern and are sure to feel comfortable with sharing things which they find scary and discussing these. The illustrations (as I have already mentioned!) are a real joy! I love the spread where, missing Tiny Owl who has taken off, hits the water with a huge splash and the feeling of how tiny and alone Tiny Owl is, surrounded by blues, before the comforting appearance of Mummy arrives.

Sure to become a firm favourite, this is a beautiful story!

Tiny Owl’s Scary Day Petr Horacek

Walker Books ISBN: 978-1529509274

The Minute Minders

Stevedore Clipper (Stevie) and her father are fidders, tiny beings who spend their time helping humans. Humans can’t see fidders and there are all sorts of rules governing how fidders are supposed to deal with those they are helping. Stevie isn’t very good with rules, but she is excellent at helping others.

‘The Minute Minders’ is a completely captivating, thoroughly enjoyable read, full of warmth and humour. Having lost her mother and siblings in a terrible accident, Stevie is reluctant to leave her father and go off to boarding school and so begins to accompany him whilst he works as a Truth Revealer. However, Stevie cannot resist ‘helping’ which leads to problems, ending up with them having to leave their home near Linbradan and move to the town of Tassimity where her father has to work as a Minute Minder- a job he is not keen on!

Stevie is a wonderful character. Told from her viewpoint, the story captures the importance of considering how we approach others, how we tackle situations and above all, caring for them. Her curiosity and enthusiasm are infectious and she often notices things which others don’t, recording these as ‘vitally important points’ in her notebook. Her relationship with her father is beautifully captured, full of warmth and love.

Mary Murphy’s world building is brilliant, full of details of the fidders’ world and the role they play in caring for humans. There is plenty of humour in the story which is accompanied by lovely illustrations.

I can’t wait to read more books about these lovely characters!

The Minute Minders Mary Murphy

Pushkin Press ISBN: 978-1782694229

Published 18th January 2024