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

Tiger, It’s Snowing!/ Tiger, Don’t Worry!

Little Mei and her friend, Tiger, are excited because it is snowing. Tiger has never seen snow before and is so keen to explore that he doesn’t notice how cold Mei is getting. When he does, they both head home for a warming bowl of soup and bed.

A lovely story, ‘Tiger, It’s Snowing’ bursts with the childhood joys of exploration and discovery, capturing that sense of wonder. All the fun and excitement of playing in fresh snow is perfectly captured through Tiger’s wide-eyed delight as he and Mei cavort about, tasting and capturing snowflakes. The story also offers the opportunity for gentle discussions about noticing how others are feeling as, in his excitement, Tiger doesn’t listen to Mei when she says she is feeling cold, only noticing that there is a problem when she starts to sneeze.

The illustrations are just delightful, each one worth dwelling on and enjoying. Mei and Tiger stand out against the softly coloured backgrounds and their affection for each other is easy to see. Children will enjoy discussing these scenes, comparing them to their own experiences of snow days! A wonderful spread shows Tiger wrapping Mei in his warm, furry arms once he had realised how cold she is and another captures them creating snow angels!

Warm and wonderful, this is a wonderful story to snuggle up with and share!

Tiger, It’s Snowing

Daishu Ma

Post Wave ISBN: 9781836270355

When Mei and Tiger decide they would like to make tea like the adults, things go very wrong and the two run away to avoid getting into trouble. Eventually, they realise that they need to go home and face the consequences of their actions.

I absolutely love ‘Tiger, Don’t Worry!’. In their enthusiasm, Tiger and Mei unintentionally cause chaos in their attempt to make tea. Little children will immediately empathise with their sense of worry when things go wrong, perhaps able to identify with this situation! The story offers a gentle lesson about the importance of owning up when things go wrong, but also perhaps serves as a reminder to adults that accidents can happen with no ill intent! Tiger and Mei are instantly forgiven by their family and everyone makes tea together.

For many children- and adults- reading this book, making a cup of tea involves a very different process to that shown in the illustrations, making the story an excellent starting point for discussions about where tea comes from!

Tiger and Mei are sure to become firm favourites with young readers!

Tiger, Don’t Worry!

Daishu Ma

Post Wave ISBN: 978-1836270164

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.

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

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.

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 Great Nut Hunt

Squirrel is busy at work, gathering as many nuts as he can and hiding them away to keep them safe. However, he soon forgets where he has put them and sets off to find them. Does Bear have them? Owl? Beaver? It might take a little help from his friends if Squirrel is to find them!

Bouncy rhyming text make ‘The Great Nut Hunt’ a real joy to read aloud, perfect for engaging children!

There is so much to love about this story! Having lost his precious store of nuts, Squirrel suspects that his friends might have taken them and so sneaks into their homes, taking something from each of them. He ends up both disappointed and feeling like he has been a really bad friend. Fortunately, his friends are willing to forgive him and kind enough to offer their friendship and support. Perfect for starting discussions about making mistakes, the story shows the importance of owning up to being wrong and apologising.

The story also offers plenty of curriculum enrichment as it is sure to generate discussions about squirrels hibernation habits and why they need to cache nuts. A note at the end of the book says that millions of trees are planted by squirrels each year in this way! The story might lead to a tree planting event or a walk through some woods, looking for evidence of new growth, perhaps caused by squirrels! They could also look closely at the type of nuts that squirrels bury and then look at the trees/ plants which grow as a result.

Children will love lingering over the illustrations and noticing all the details. It was pointed out to me that Squirrel trying unsuccessfully to shut his front door on his stash of nuts is very like me trying to close my library door! I deny this, of course!

Great fun, this is sure to quickly become a story time favourite at home and at school!

The Great Nut Hunt

Karl Newson, illustrated by Nia Havilliard

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702342165

The Changeling Child

With a new project threatening both the natural world and the Faerie realm, Saga and Alfred are brought together once again. As a demi-fae, Alfred must journey deep into the magical kingdom, leaving Saga behind to unravel the twelve-year-old mystery of a missing child who is, perhaps, the key to everything.

‘The Changeling Child’ is the sequel to the very brilliant ‘Into the Faerie Hill’- and it is every bit as captivating and magical!

As Mayor Underwood plans to exploit the beauty of the caverns by developing it as a tourist attraction with a restaurant building, viewing platform and cable car, the repercussions for the Faerie and the natural world will be devastating. The story alternates between Alfred and Saga’s viewpoints as each strives to find a way to maintain the balance between worlds. Each shows great bravery, determination and resourcefulness, making them very real, likeable characters, relatable and engaging.

Longing to be the David Attenborough of the Faerie world, Saga’s passion for the natural world and its care is inspiring. Left behind as she is unable to join Alfred as he journeys into the Faerie world, she throws herself into saving the hill from development whilst Alfred learns more about himself, his family and life with the fae.

Family, friendship and belonging are key themes in this compelling story as well as environmental protection and the importance of speaking out about what you believe in. There is such a warmth running through the heart of this story which is bursting with magic and adventure that it is impossible to put down once started! Both this - and ‘Into the Faerie Hill’- would make a very engaging class story, full of things to discuss and enjoy.

A brilliant story!

The Changeling Child

H S Norup

Pushkin Press ISBN: 978-1782695189

You can read my review of ‘Into the Faerie Hill’ here.

Medusa Gorgon’s Bad Hair Day

Medusa Gorgon works for the goddess, Athena, as a guardian in her temple. To help with her fiery temper, Medusa’s best friend, Arachne, has suggested she keeps a diary as an outlet to process her feelings. But when Medusa angers Athena and is banished to the twenty-first century to retrieve Athena’s shield which she (Medusa) might just have got rid of in a fit of temper, her life becomes a series of VERY bad days.

‘Medusa Gorgon’s Bad Hair Day’ is a brilliant read! Fast paced and funny, it is the perfect book to read this summer holiday!

Accessible and entertaining, the dairy style format is really popular with lots of children as the first person writing easy to engage with and this particular one is highly illustrated and hilarious. Her frustrations with the gods and the unfairness of life and her bewilderment at life at secondary school and navigating the perils of friendship groups make for very entertaining reading - with many a true word spoken in jest!

Obviously, the book draws heavily on the Greek myths, but readers don’t need to be familiar with the story of Medusa or Arachne or any of the other Gods to thoroughly enjoy the story. The author uses characters from these myths, but very much makes them her own, developing their personalities and allowing Medusa and Arachne to choose their fate.

Friendship is at the heart of the story. Although quick tempered, Medusa is a loyal, kind friend, far from the cold hearted monster of myth, easy to relate to and easy to like. The illustrations are just wonderful and add much to the story, making this an excellent addition to any bookshelf.

Medusa Gorgon’s Bad Hair Day

Bethany Walker, illustrated by Katie Abey

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702340659

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

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

Come Back, Gosling

A little girl and a gosling are dear friends who love one another very much. Going to the library and sharing books is their favourite thing to do, but one week, they start a book which the little girl does not like and will not share. The book goes missing until one night, Gosling finds it and reads it…and leaves. Desperate to make things right, the little girl chases after him to make amends.

‘Come Back, Gosling’ is a lovely story, celebrating friendship, the love of books and the importance of honesty.

Through the power of books, the little girl discovers that Gosling will grow into a goose and learn to fly. Scared about this change, she refuses to share the information with her little friend, first by becoming upset and changing the subject, and then by hiding the book. This refusal to face change means that, not only does she hide something important from her friend, but she also fails to read to the end of the book and so does not fully understand what is going on. Once the truth is out, Gosling is able to follow his own path- but the friendship endures. Friends cannot always be together- the freedom to do your own thing and to thrive on your own is so important- and those friendships which have some space and respect of individual needs are often the strongest!

The illustrations simply glow with David Litchfield’s usual magic and warmth! The opening end papers show the little girl and Gosling making their way to the tree house with their books whilst the end ones show the same scene, but in the autumn, after Gosling’s return. There are so many details to notice and enjoy. Children will enjoy spotting other books by Anne and David amongst those in the library- ‘A Shelter for Sadness’, ‘The Boy, the Troll and the Chalk’- as well as other favourites such as ‘The Wind in the Willows’. Their love of sharing books is beautifully captured- a special time to be enjoyed and valued, something which, sadly, is so often not a part of children’s lives.

Inspired by the story, children may well enjoy learning more about the life cycle and habits of geese, perhaps sharing their information by creating a lift-the-flap book and start creating a little library of their own. Perfect for story times, this is a book to linger over!

Come Back, Gosling

Anne Booth, illustrated by David Litchfield

Templar ISBN: 978-1800783072

You can read my review of ‘A Shelter for Sadness’ here and ‘The Boy, the Troll and the Chalk’ here.

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

I’m Going to Make a Friend

A child moves to a new house and is worried about making new friends. How long will it take? What games will they want to play? Will they have their own ideas? In the end, you just have to give it a go!

‘How to Make a Friend’ is a delightful, reassuring book which explores all the emotions it takes to form a friendship.

Text and illustration work beautifully together in this book as the pictures show the child using junk modelling to create a friend, encouraging readers to explore the idea of ‘making a friend’ and what this really means. At times, the robot style creation seems to come to life through the child’s imagination, but reverts to an inanimate form when the child interacts with others. As the child struggles with all the questions filling their head about what they might expect from a friend, the story offers a perfect springboard for discussion and role play to develop and explore these ideas.

The child- never identified as a boy or a girl- does have a constant companion- the cat which follows them around, their expression mirroring the feelings of the child. There are many details in the pictures for readers to discuss and enjoy as they explore the developing friendship. There are plenty of pages to pause on, to discuss what might be happening, what might be said - and what might happen next. The end papers are also worth lingering over- the child (and their cat!) play alone at the beginning, the two children(and the cat!) play together at the end.

A brilliant book for both home and school, ‘I’m Going to Make a Friend’ is just lovely!

I’m Going to Make a Friend

Darren Chetty, illustrated by Sandhya Prabhat

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1801046602

Finders of Silverthorn Forest: The Lost Treasures

Max is determined to find the old time capsule, buried years ago by his grandmother, before she moves out of Pickwick Cottage and goes to live with Max and his mother. However, he never expected his search would lead him to meet Tuftorious Snook, collector of lost objects, and one of the Finders of Silverthorn Wood. When Max unwittingly goes against their code, the Finders, naturally wary of humans, banish him from the woods. However, learning the Finders- and the woods- are under threat, Max is determined to save them.

Children are always asking me what my favourite book is - a question I find impossible to answer. They then move on to try and make me identify my favourite book of the year… the month…the week…and I can never decide. However, I can confidently claim that ‘Finders of Silverthorn Forest: The Lost Treasures’ is a one of the best books I have read this year- and one which I will thoroughly enjoy sharing!

There is something so magical about this story. It is beautifully written, full of rich languages choices and vivid descriptions, something which can be missing from books for younger readers. The text is a joy to read aloud, perfect for using as a class text to inspire creativity and excellent work, or for a class story. It is a delightful story, a warm, feel-good read which children- and adults will love.

Tuftorious Snook- what a name!- is a lovely character. Tuft is very proud of being a Finder and sticks to the rules he has been brought up to believe in. Yet, he is prepared to adapt his thinking to help his new friend, showing himself to be kind and caring. His collection of found items is sure to start discussions about what constitutes treasure, the idea of ‘finders keepers’ and recycling. Max is just as lovely. His relationship with his grandmother is beautifully captured; his determined to find her special time capsule and make her happy is really heart-warming. This kind nature also shows itself in his desire to save the Finders, no matter what they think of him.

The illustrations are as delightful as the story, full of details to enjoy. I absolutely loved this one and can’t wait to read the next book about Max and Tuft.

Finders of Silverthorn Forest: The Lost Treasures

Rachel Chivers Khoo, illustrated by Laura Catalan

Walker ISBN: 978-1529523805

You can read my review of ‘The Wishkeeper’s Apprentice’ here and ‘The Magician Next Door’ here.

Elephant Can’t Jump

Elephant is determined to take part in the Big Boing Off competition this year. All the usual contestants, Flea, Frog, Goat and Kangaroo, are taking part and are expert jumpers, but when Elephant tries, she finds she just can’t jump!

However, with some creative thinking, perseverance and a little help from her friends, perhaps Elephant can find a way to jump after all.

‘Elephant Can’t Jump’ is a real ‘feel good’ story, perfect for sharing with little ones, which offers a really positive message about perseverance and determination.

Determined to enter the competition, Elephant is supported by her friends in trying to find a solution to her problem. As each attempt fails, she shows great resilience as her friends come up with creative ways of helping her to achieve her goal. They all keep trying until, together, they have ensured their friend’s success and can all celebrate together!

The story reminds readers that there is no one right way of doing things. Each of the animals has their own approach and techniques for jumping- no one way better than the other- which allow them to experience success. When none of these ways work for Elephant, they simply set about finding a way which suits her and allows her to achieve her goal. Although delighted with herself, Elephant is quick to thank her friends for their help, showing that teamwork, friendship and determination make an excellent combination!

Robert Starling’s colourful illustrations are full of humour, energy and colour, with plenty of details to spot. The book if perfect for sharing at home or at school, offering an excellent starting point for discussions about perseverance and looking for alternative ways of finding a solution! Great fun!

Elephant Can’t Jump

Pip Jones, illustrated by Robert Starling

Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1471193316

Basil Dreams Big

Basil the bat doesn’t believe that he can fly. Encouraged by his friend, Moth, and the rest of the fruit bats, he tries and tries, but with no luck. However, when as storm threatens Moth, Basil realises that anything is possible.

Told in bouncy, rhyming text, ‘Basil Dreams Big’ is an absolute dream to read aloud, making it perfect for sharing!

Children will empathise with Basil as he struggles to master a new skill. No matter what he does, his efforts seem fruitless, but ultimately, resilience and self-belief enable him to overcome his fears. Supported by friends and family, he struggles to find the courage until his best friend needs him and everything falls into place. Children will relate to his worries and the book makes a perfect starting point for discussions about resilience, determination and not giving up.

Gorgeous illustrations accompany the story and these could also be used with a class- or individual child- to pause the story and explore Basil’s feelings at different points, perhaps using role play or gathering vocabulary. Children might share a personal (realistic!) goal recorded on a ‘Basil’ shape which they are determined to achieve, creating a display to encourage perseverance.

Used alongside other areas of the curriculum, the book might also inspire research into fruit bats. Some of the lovely phrasing used in the story might also be explored- ‘moonlit-kissed world’, ‘dawn-dusted tree’, ‘storm-tumbled skies’- perhaps encouraging children to create their own descriptive words or phrases- even leading to poetry writing!

A really lovely book!

Basil Dreams Big

Lu Fraser, illustrated by Sarah Warburton

Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1398525832

Published 24th April 2025

My Rice is Best

Shane loves to eat rice and peas and believes it is the BEST FOOD EVER! However, when he takes some to school for his lunch, he soon discovers that his friend Yinka is just as passionate about jollof rice. So- whose rice is best?

‘My Rice is Best’ is an absolute delight! Full of humour, it is perfect for sharing and starting discussions.

Everyone has a favourite food, but this story shows the wonderful versatility of this staple and how it can be enjoyed by different people in different ways, allowing readers to explore cultural diversity. Used in schools, it would be perfect for starting discussions about food, the origin of various dishes, favourite dishes the children enjoy at home…the possibilities are endless! Children might enjoy creating their own stories based on this one, but changing the food- to potatoes, for example, or beans! Exploring the similarities and differences between different families, different cultures, different traditions could lead to food tasting sessions (obviously paying attention to allergies etc!) or community events, embracing new cuisines.

Although Shane and Yinka squabble over which rice is best, when things go wrong, Yinka and the others are all ready to share with Shane, making sure he has plenty of lunch to eat. Friendship is more important than food! The book also captures the close relationship between Shane and his mum as she shares the secret of their special family recipe.

The illustrations are wonderful. Bold, bright and engaging, they add much to the humour and joy of the story. A must have for every class and home!

My Rice is Best

Selina Brown, illustrated by Maxwell A. Oginni

Puffin ISBN: 978-0241635537

Published 8th May 2025