The New Famous Five: Five and the Smuggler’s Code

When Maddy, Fran, Tom and Gilbert, the dog, arrive at Kirrin Cottage to stay with Professor George, their father’s cousin, they quickly realise that she is missing. Following a trail of clues, they are led to Smuggler’s Top, an ancient house with secret passages, which is now the home of a villain who must be stopped.

I was the BIGGEST ‘Famous Five’ fan as a child, proudly owning all 21 books, some of which had belonged to my mother when she was young. Despite, even as a child, being uncomfortable with some of the content, these stories offered the escapism of an excellent adventure, leaving me with fond memories of reading them and sharing this enthusiasm with my friends. As a result, I have always been reluctant to read ‘new’ stories or adaptations of the originals. However, it feels as if ‘Five and The Smuggler’s Code’ has been written by someone who understands the originals and has captured their spirit!

This second adventure for the New Famous Five bursts with nods to the original stories, including characters, locations- and food! Alf, who used to look after Timmy for George before she was allowed to keep him at home, is now looking after her new dog, Bobs, whilst she (George) is away. The children are Dick, one of the original Five’s, grandchildren and he makes an appearance towards the end of the book. Anne, also of the Famous Five, features in this story. For those who have read the originals, her treatment is really interesting. Now a detective, she is no longer the timid, girly ‘homemaker’ of Blyton’s stories, although she still makes sure everyone is well fed-  ‘clearly, she hadn’t changed completely from the little girl who’d arranged picnics for the others so long ago’! In fact, she calmly states, ‘I'm used to be underestimated…It’s been happening my whole life’ – something sure to make original readers smile with delight!

However, the story holds up well as an adventure in its own right with plenty of action, peril twists and turns, leading to the New Famous Five coming out on top just like their predecessors. A flashback to 55 years earlier ties this adventure to one had by the Famous Five- ‘Five Go to Smuggler’s Top’, the fourth story Enid Blyton wrote about them. Here, Chris Smith makes an effort to use more Blyton-esque language, contrasting with the modern day usage in the rest of the book.

Thoroughly enjoyable!

The New Famous Five: Five and the Smuggler’s Code

Chris Smith (inspired by Enid Blyton), illustrated by James Lancett

Hodder ISBN: 978-1444978759

The Big-Time Boogie-Woogie Animal Band

When a one-band dog meets up with a fiddle playing fox, they start a Boogie-Woogie Animal Band. As more and more animals join, the band gets bigger and bigger until they realise that there is one band member missing…

Out in paperback on the 15th, ‘Boogie-Woogie Animal Band’ is another treat of a read from the amazing Giles Andreae.

Brilliant bouncy text introduces children to a wonderful range of musical instruments played by an incredible range of animals. Fantastic for reading aloud, there is a top-tapping quality to the story which is instantly engaging and perfect for encouraging little ones to join in. The final illustration encourages the reader to join the band as the star player- the singer- which is sure to result in some wonderful warbling!

The illustrations are just lovely, full of colour, energy and detail. As the animals are their instruments are introduced, readers will enjoy counting along as the band grows in size. As well as being a great introduction to different musical instruments and animals, the book highlights the joy of collaborative music making and teamwork. Perfect for inspiring musical and craft activities, ‘The Big-Time Boogie-Woogie Animal Band’ is a brilliant addition to bookshelves at home and at school!

The Big-Time Boogie-Woogie Animal Band

Giles Andreae, illustrated by Nick East

Hachette ISBN: 978-1408370384

Boss of the Underworld: Shirley vs the Huge Beast

When Shirley’s best friend, George, is kidnapped and taken to the underworld by a large mole, she sets off to save him. Having been created ‘temporary’ Queen of the Under-Underworld by the true queen, Shirley must travel across this land, accompanied by Peels, servant to the queen, to defeat a huge giant which has been terrorising the land and rescue George.

Completely bonkers and endlessly entertaining, ‘Shirley vs the Huge Beast’ is as imaginative as it is funny! On her quest to rescue George, she and Peels face- and survive- a catalogue of nightmarish disasters worthy of Indiana Jones. Visual humour combines brilliantly with witty lines, offering a very pacy and satisfying read.

For anyone who hasn’t read the first book in the series, a summary sets the scene, leading straight into the action. Teamwork wins the day and Shirley once again shows herself to be loyal, determined and brave. The book ends with a ‘spot the difference’ and a find ten ‘pesky fare dodgers’! Children will enjoy reading this one again and again, noticing more details and appreciating more of the humour with each re-read!

Boss of the Underworld: Shirley vs the Huge Beast

Tor Freeman

Hachette ISBN: 978-1444976410

Tree Thing

When Rinti the squirrel finds a glowing little acorn on the forest floor, she scoops it up and takes it to her friend, Marlo. Nothing grows in the valley where they live, but Marlo plants the seed in the hope that something will come of it. To his amazement, the acorn grows into the most wonderful Tree Thing, which changes everything. However, when a mysterious Rider arrives, bearing an axe and threatening to destroy Tree Thing, Marlo must find the courage and ingenuity needed to face him and save Tree Thing.

Thought-provoking and powerful, ‘Tree Thing’ is a story deeply rooted in the beauty of the natural world. It carries a plea for its protection and bursts with hope for change. It is quite extraordinary.

Piers Torday says that this story was in part inspired by the senseless destruction of the ‘Sycamore Gap Tree’ found along Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland. A favourite place to visit, my family and I were, like so many, horrified to hear of its having been illegally felled and have since visited the remaining stump and taken heart in the signs of new life sprouting there. In ‘Tree Thing’, the life of all trees is celebrated, including the amazing contribution they make in feeding, sheltering and sustaining so much other life. The beauty and power of Tree Thing brings life and hope to Marlo and the people living in his valley and when the Rider appears, intent on destruction, it is through Marlo’s determination to champion and protect Tree Thing that change is possible, offering hope for the future.

Themes of environmental protection and conservation in children’s books are no new thing; however, ‘Tree Thing’ is wonderfully original, almost fairy tale like in its form. The illustrations add much to the magical feeling of the story, capturing poignant, humorous and wonderful moments perfectly! ‘Tree Thing’ would make a fascinating class text for children to explore and enjoy whilst gaining much from the beautiful use of language and imagery.

A special story!

Tree Thing

Piers Torday, illustrated by Matthew Taylor Wilson

Hachette ISBN: 978-1786541482

You can read my review of ‘Midnight Treasure’ here and ‘Wolf Crown’ here.

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.

The Turtle Who Turned the Tide

It’s the day of the Grand Hatching and all the animals have gathered to watch the baby turtles make their way to the ocean. Tula and her brother, Tiny, are amongst them and Tula finds herself the favourite to win the race to the water. However, she suddenly realises that Tiny has gone off course. She bravely decides to turn back and find him and when they find themselves facing danger, all the animals unite to save Tula and Tiny and see them safely to the water.

Since ‘The Lion Inside’ Rachel Bright and Jim Field have been delighting readers with gorgeous stories, ringing with positive messages and joy. Like the others, ‘The Turtle Who Turned the Tide’ combines vivid engaging illustrations with a heart-warming story about the power of change and communities working together for good.

The rhyming text is an absolute joy to read aloud, rising and falling with the action of the story. Tula chooses to help her brother above winning the race, showing the importance of kindness. Her example to the other animals inspires them in turn to gather together and rally round when needed, making sure Tula and Tiny escape the jaws of Snake and happily end up in the ocean with the other baby turtles. The element of peril is very well handled with the word ‘but…’ at the bottom of the page hinting that something is going to save the siblings!

The illustrations are just wonderful, helping to immerse the reader in the story. There are many points to pause and linger over the pictures, perhaps discussing them in more detail. Children might wish to discover more about turtles, their hatching and first journey to the sea. They might enjoy making a simple origami model or a felt finger puppet of a turtle and use these to act out the story whilst reading. With older readers, the meaning of ‘turned the tide’ and how this is shown in the story would generate some interesting discussions!

Another triumph from this team!

The Turtle Who Turned the Tide

Rachel Bright, illustrated by Jim Field

Orchard ISBN: 978-1408366448

You can read my review of ‘The Pandas Who Promised’ here, The Koala Who Could here, The Squirrels Who Squabbled here, The Way Home for Wolf here and The Whale Who Wanted More here.

How to Catch an Idea

A little girl searches everywhere, trying to catch an idea. As she looks, she asks everyone and everything she meets for help…

‘How to Catch an Idea’ is an absolutely delightful story which celebrates insatiable curiosity and the wonders of wondering!

As the little girl sets out to catch ‘a super-shiny, sparkling, brand-new’ idea, she asks advice from those she meets along the way, offering plenty to discuss and reflect on as the story is shared again and again. Children are sure to have plenty of their own thoughts about where ideas come from and how they should be nurtured and developed. Just as the girl a note book to record her ideas, they might be inspired to start one of their own, allowing them to draw, note, write and scribble as ideas and thoughts come to them.

The lovely language used to explore girl’s search is matched by fabulous illustrations, brimming with humour and things to notice. It is such a joyful book, one which teachers will enjoy sharing with classes, perhaps discussing the way different people answered her questions and perhaps considering how other people might answer- a teacher or sweetshop owner, for example! Children could draw themselves in a swirl of ideas like the one of the little girl or, if they are currently chasing a big idea, leave space to add these as they occur to them!

What a lovely book!

How to Catch an Idea

Forest Xiao

Orchard ISBN: 978-1408366974

Duck Delivers

Duck is happiest when at home, reorganising his sock collection. However, Great-Granduck is keen for him to experience adventure and, having offered some good advice and his lucky compass, encourages Duck to get out into the world. Deciding to become a delivery duck, Duck is ready to see the world and make his first delivery. What could possibly go wrong?

Full of fun, ‘Duck Delivers’ is a delightful story. Happy to stay in his own little world, when Duck steps outside his comfort zone and faces all the chaos and confusion life sometimes brings, he learns that he can overcome obstacles, problem solve and persevere until he accomplishes his task.

Illustrations and text combine perfectly to make the book a genuinely funny read. At every step, things appear to go wrong and yet Duck delivers! The pictures are full of details, allowing the reader to be in on the joke as Duck goes wrong, but they are also a joy to linger over, with plenty of potential for story telling along the way, Brilliant for reading aloud, children will love joining in with phrases like ‘Oh, breadcrumbs!’ and chanting Great-Granduck’s three simple rules.

Sure to become a firm favourite at home or school!

Duck Delivers

Tom Tinn-Disbury

Hachette ISBN: 978-1444976335

I Hear the Trees: Untamed Poems from Mother Earth

‘I Hear the Trees’ is another wonderful collection of poems which immerses the reader in the glories of Mother Earth. A wide range of work is presented here, from the sensory joys of nature to the deepest emotions, expressed in a variety of poetic styles and forms, offering something for everyone.

Many of the poems here would be invaluable as models for teachers keen to inspire a love of poetry and allow children the opportunity to express themselves and there are notes at the end of the book which I have deliberately not read so that my thoughts here really are my thoughts! ‘I Choose Poetry’ is perfect for encouraging children to think of all those beautiful, sad, exciting moments or feelings and try to capture them in this way. ‘Poetry is personal’ is the final line and this is reflected in every line, allowing children the freedom to express themselves whilst supported by using a form.

Another poem which lends itself as a model is ‘I Hear the Trees’. The perfect excuse (if one were needed) for wandering in a wood and noting all the sights and sounds and tuning in to nature, children can explore how Zaro has phrased things and experiment with expressing their ideas, perhaps working together, perhaps performing their work, perhaps filming in the woods which sparked their imagination!

There are many other poems here which could be used in this way and many which lend themselves to performing, but a collection such as this offers plenty of opportunities to enrich the curriculum by encouraging discussion and reflection, not only of the beauties of our world, but the need to nurture and protect it. Although the teacher in me has taken over here, this is a joyful collection for sharing at home or enjoying independently as well…a collection for everyone!

I Hear the Trees: Untamed Poems from Mother Earth

Zaro Weil, illustrated by Junli Song

Hachette ISBN: 978- 1803381534

You can read my review of ‘When Poems Fall from the Sky’ here and ‘Firecrackers!’ here.

Call the Puffins: Tiny and the Cave Ghost

Muffin, Tiny and the rest of the trainee rescue puffins on the Island of Egg are all taking part in a special festival called Puffin Power. Tiny’s team has gained a new member, a little yellow chick called Flotsam, who has appeared and is determined to join in the fun. However, when Flotsam goes missing, all the young puffins rush to help- even though it means going into the dark caves where, legend has it, the Wandering Puffin lies in wait for visitors…

‘Tiny and the Cave Ghost’ is the fourth book in this delightful series about the Puffin Rescue Team trainees on the Island of Egg. Gorgeous illustrations combined with enjoyable adventures and firm friendships makes these stories ideal for younger readers- although I know several older children who absolutely love them!

Full of positive messages about friendship and teamwork, this adventure takes the young puffins on a rescue mission as they face their fears and work together to find little Flotsam who has wandered off and got into trouble. Tiny shows real leadership skills, combining an excellent idea with things learned on training to come up with a rescue successful rescue plan. The story involves just the right amount of peril and tension, making the story engaging, but not too worrying! Ella Okstad’s wonderful black and white illustrations capture the personality of each puffin perfectly.

Information about puffins is included at the end of the book, adding to the enjoyment of the story. In this book, readers learn that puffins’ beaks do glow- something which comes in useful whilst the team are in the caves!

Perfect for animal/ bird lovers or anyone who enjoys a good adventure, these wonderfully engaging little books are a real treat!

Call the Puffins! Tiny and the Cave Ghost

Cath Howe, illustrated by Ella Okstad

Welbeck ISBN: 978-1804536407

Published on the 13th March 2025

You can read my review of ‘Tiny’s Brave Rescue’ here and my blog tour post for ‘Call the Puffins’ here

NNFN2024: Seven Small Inventions that Changed the World

For day 5 of NNFN2024, ‘Seven Small Inventions that Changed the World’, an utterly fascinating read which shares the story behind these small inventions which have transformed our lives. Perfect for sparking curiosity and inspiring the next generation of creative minds, this is a brilliant book!

The inventions covered are nails, wheels, springs, magnets, lenses, string and pumps. Each is clearly introduced with a spread outlining its history and development. This is then followed by pages on how the invention actually works, examples of other inventions which use that technology and finally, a focus on one particular thing which uses it.

Clear explanations are offered at each stage and, although there is no glossary, many technical terms are explained within the text. The book is full of vibrant, colourful illustrations which add plenty of interest and appeal to each invention. It certainly helps children understand how key events and individuals in design and technology have helped shape the world! Having said that, there is much here to interest and engage adults as well.

Seven Small Inventions that Changed the World

Roma Agrawal, illustrated by Jisu Choi

Laurence King     ISBN: 978-1510230750

Seawitch

As part of taking her ‘Sapling’ test and moving a step closer to becoming a fully trained witch, Cassie Morgan must take on the challenge of training a new witch; however, when one arrives, Robin Kendrick is not what she- or the rest of 1st Hedgely coven- were expecting. When a letter arrives from her cousin, Sebastian, asking for her help in solving a mystery, Oak Patrol- with their new member, head off to the Faerie border town of Porthmorven whose protector the Seawitch is nowhere to be found, leaving the town vulnerable. Can Cassie and her friend work out what is going on and foil the Erl King’s plans before it’s too late?

‘Seawitch’ is the third book in this magical series about Cassie- and each seems better than the last! Wonderfully atmospheric, both characters and scenery are vividly portrayed, offering a very satisfying and immersive read.

With the support of her friends, Cassie is gaining in confidence, determined to become a witch and find her parents. Level headed and fair, she still has some qualms about the acceptance of Robin- a boy- into the coven so that he can train to be a witch- something seen as a female role. Skye McKenna explores the young witches prejudices really well - ‘You’ve got to be resourceful and observant and well… they [boys] just aren’t.’- challenging stereotypical gender roles.

‘Seawitch’ moves at a very pleasing pace, with plenty of action and Cassie learning more about her parents whilst leaving tantalising clues and paving the way for more stories to come. Although magical stories, this series has so much to recommend it to any reader that those who claim not to be fans of this genre will find themselves enjoying the books just as much as those who are!

Seawitch

Skye McKenna, illustrated by Tomislav Tomic

Welbeck ISBN: 978-1801301282

You can read my review of ‘Hedgewitch’ here and ‘Woodwitch’ here.

The Girl at the Front of the Class

When a new girl arrives in his class, Adam is determined to make friends with her. However, she doesn’t want to play or make sandcastles in the sandpit- she just draws sad pictures. Seeking advice, Adam asks his teacher, his dad and his grandma and although they try to explain, their answers make him very sad and more determined than ever to be her friend. So he comes up with a plan…

Ever since the publication of ‘The Boy at the Back of the Class’, books by Onjali Q Rauf have supported teachers, parents and other adults in developing thoughtful conversations with children about a number of topics, creating empathy and understanding in an often harsh, judgemental world. In ‘The Girl at the Front of the Class’, she works her magic once more with a poignant, beautiful story, perfect for starting discussions about the plight of refugees with younger children.

At the end of the story, the reader- and Adam- learns that the little girl’s name is Layla. The book is a celebration of the power of kindness and how simple acts of friendship can make a world of difference. But Adam is not pushy or overbearing in his actions- he shows patience and thought, creating a large picture depicting a happy ‘story’ for Layla, meeting her on her own terms rather than forcing her into a friendship.

The illustrations complement the text perfectly and the picture showing Layla and Adam swapping names is just lovely, as they are bathed in a warm glow whilst the lively bustle of the rest of the class is shown in a muted grey-blue, highlighting their newly-formed friendship.

At the end of the book, there are ‘Five Ideas to Help Refugee Children Feel Welcome’, each suggestion something which is easily achievable and the significance of each will be readily understood by even the youngest children. A wonderful addition to bookshelves, ‘The Girl at the Front of the Class’ is perfect for sharing.

The Girl at the Front of the Class

Onjali Q Rauf, illustrated by Pippa Curnick

Hodder ISBN: 978-1526364654

You can read my review of ‘The Letter with the Golden Stamp’ here.

The Wild Outside

Tulip loves being outside, exploring nature and all its beauties. One day, she discovers a nature trail which names all of her favourite flowers, trees and plants. Returning home, Tulip finds a package on her doorstep, containing a wonderful nature guide, offering her more information about plants from around the world. After a rainy day, all the chalked labels and names of the nature trail have been washed away so Tulip tries to replace it, adding question marks where she is unsure about something. On her way home, she notices that someone has added the answers to these and, following a trail of muddy footprints, discovers her mystery helper is her Grandpa.

This glorious book celebrates both the wonders of nature and insatiable curiosity! One of the many joys of being around young children is their boundless interest and Tulip exudes an infectious delight in exploring the world around her.

Perfect for inspiring families to get outside during the summer holidays and learn more about nature, ‘The Wild Outside’ offers a wealth of information about trees and plants, presented in little snippets which are easy to understand and remember. The story could easily be used (at home or at school!) as the starting point for inspiring a nature trail around a garden, park or even along the route of a local walk. The ‘outside’ is not a confined area in the story and Tulip and her mum (it doesn’t specify that this is who it is) are shown exploring everywhere, encouraging children to observe nature wherever they find themselves.

At the end of the book, there are suggestions for activities like leaf and bark rubbing and flower pressing which might encourage children to create a nature book of their own like Tulip’s. A very clear warning is given at the very beginning of the book about never touching or picking flowers etc without an adult’s supervision and at the end, there is further guidance for looking after the environment whilst enjoying yourself!

The illustrations are delightful and eagle-eyed readers are sure to spot the clues as to the identity of Tulip’s mysterious guide to nature as the story progresses. The fact that her grandfather is sharing his knowledge and wisdom with her, inspiring and encouraging Tulip to follow her passion and discover more is a lovely way of valuing relationships between different generations whether family members as in this case or not.

Brilliant for supporting (and expanding!) the curriculum at both KS1 and 2 as well as for enjoying at home, ‘The Wild Outside’ is an inspiring, enjoyable read!

The Wild Outside

Rachel Ip, illustrated by Katie Hickey

Hachette ISBN: 978-1526365217

An Invitation to the Botanic Gardens

In this lovely book, readers are offered VIP access to the Botanic Gardens in Kew. From the ticket office to the ‘exit through the gift shop’, the book shares a wealth of information about the scientists, gardeners, horticulturalists, designers and explainers (amongst others!) who work so hard to keep this magical place full of healthy plants and happy visitors.

Perfect for sharing in preparation for a visit to the Gardens as well as reliving memories afterwards, ‘An Invitation to…’ is bursting with specific information about the Botanic Gardens. Different locations within the site are carefully explored, supported by wonderful illustrations. Three gateway folds allow the reader to feel as if they are entering different areas, exploring them with the visitors depicted enjoying them. For those who have never been there (and might never be lucky enough to go) it offers a glimpse of the wonders of the place and its plants and the dedication of those who work to maintain it. However, this is not just a book to link to a visit to the gardens.

Explanations are given for key vocabulary like pollination and germination whilst the work done at Kew gardens can be related to any garden which encourages nature to thrive. Children may be inspired to cultivate their own ‘conservation meadow’ or kitchen garden to grow their own vegetables. They can find out about some of the different carnivorous plants which are kept there as well as the important role of the seed bank.

A really beautiful book sharing the amazing work which goes on at a very special location, ‘An Invitation to the Botanic Gardens is one not to miss!

An Invitation to the Botanic Gardens

Charlotte Guillain, illustrated by Helen Shoesmith

Hachette in partnership with the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew ISBN: 978-1803381060

The Letter with the Golden Stamp

I can't remember how old I was when I first started collecting stamps. But I've got a whole shoebox full of them now.
Mam used to help me collect them ... Before she got so ill that she lost her job, her friends...everything.
Now it's my job to take care of her and protect her - and my little brother and sister too. But to do that, I have to make Mam a Secret. A secret no-one can ever find out about. Not even my best friends at school, or Mo, our postman.
Or the stranger living in the house across the street. The one no-one has seen, but who I know is spying on us.

(Taken from the blurb)

Any new book by Onjali goes straight to the top of my teetering TBR pile and I read this the moment a copy landed on the doormat. However, it has taken me quite a while to review- not because I didn’t enjoy it, but because the story affected me so deeply.

Over the years, I have met many ‘Audrey’s- children coping with all manner of responsibilities and cares, constantly worrying about their home situation and the threat of the authorities finding out and separating them from their loved ones. ‘The Letter with the Golden Stamp’ is a deeply poignant story which shines a light on the hidden world of child carers and offering them the empathy and compassion they deserve.

Audrey is an absolute delight, quite young for her age in some ways and yet older than she should be in others. The events of the story unfold as she recounts to Sergeant Anita and Mrs Rogers in New Scotland Yard everything that has led her to being so far from her home in Wales. Her innocent desire to be honest with the police allows the reader to learn about Audrey’s life, her mother’s poor health, their ‘Sunshine Days’ when her mother is in less pain and Audrey can go to school without worrying, the days which Audrey misses from school and the occasional shoplifting so that the family can eat. There were moments when I had to put the book to one side and have a little sob as her situation rang so true and her courage, loyalty to her family and selflessness reminded me of children I have known.

And this is what Onjali does so well. Through engaging, entertaining stories and endearing characters, she highlights the situations of those in need with compassion and kindness, offering hope. Audrey is less alone than she thinks- Mo, the postman (everyone needs a lovely postman!), Mrs Davies from the shop and other neighbours are all concerned for the family and trying to help and Audrey comes from a close, loving family whose situation could have been so different had her mother not become ill.

For those who live like Audrey, the book will offer hope and recognition; other will gain empathy and understanding, perhaps be slower to judge and quicker to understand.

A beautiful book!

The Letter with the Golden Stamp

Onjali Q Rauf

Orion ISBN: 978-1510108929

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

Toxic

Jessica is used to travelling the world with her parents, whose lives are dedicated to the study and preservation of amphibians. Finding herself in the heart of the rainforest, she tries not to resent the nomadic lifestyle which prevents her from forming real relationships and being settled. However, when she meets a local girl, Renata, they strike up a friendship. As Tom, the previous researcher, leaves the research station, he gives Jessica a strange book called ‘Trekking Backwards’ which tells the very strange story of a man called Hadley Cavendish-DuPont…

When they learn that the incredibly beautiful cosmetics billionaire, Anura Hegarty, has just bought the section of rainforest where Renata lives, the girls are initially delighted. But when it turns out that Anura is in pursuit of eternal youth and will stop at nothing to get it, they find themselves in the middle of a perilous adventure!

Mitch Johnson is well known for tackling ‘big issues’ through his very accessible and readable books. ‘Toxic’ challenges the reader to think about the irresponsible and destructive actions of huge, faceless companies and their impact on the environment, and the damaging culture of ‘perfect’ beauty and youth, but also about the responsibilities of the individual.

Highly engaging, the book is extremely atmospheric, evoking the sights and sounds of the rainforest, balancing its beauty and its dangers. The story is sure to generate interesting in this fascinating location and its creatures- particularly the frogs! Messages about the terrible destruction of this special environment are obviously at the heart of the story, but so much passion and love for the natural world is expressed that the reader can’t help but feel themselves growing indignant alongside Jessica and Renata. It is beautifully managed, making it an excellent text to share as a class story or guided reading text, rich in things to discuss and explore.

The story also raises questions about the evils of a culture which promotes false notions about beauty and the importance of eternal youth, pressurising young women in particular to be constantly striving for an idea of perfection which is impossible to achieve. There is much I could say about thus, but I would hate to spoil the story for anyone who hasn’t yet read this wonderful book.

There is much to recommend this excellent book!

Toxic Mitch Johnson

Orion ISBN: 978-1510111929

You can read my review of Pop! here and Kick here.

The Pandas Who Promised

Red panda cubs, Popo and Ketu, live with their mama ‘high on a mountain, where clouds drift in billows’. Very different personalities, the two sisters promise to stay close to their mother and to always look out for each other. However, Ketu’s longing for adventure leads her to set off on an adventure to explore the very places their mama has said they must not go, leaving Popo with a difficult choice…

Coming soon in paperback, ‘The Pandas Who Promised’ is the latest in the highly successful series of books combining the talents of Rachel Bright and Jim Field which started with ‘The Lion Inside’.

It is not hard to see why these books are so popular with children- and with their adults! Rachel’s text is always an absolute joy to read aloud and this book is no exception. There is a comfortable familiarity to the rhythm of the words and a richness to the vocabulary which makes it both lyrical and satisfying. Children quickly find themselves joining in with certain words, anticipating and enjoying the peril the pandas encounter whilst secure in the knowledge that everything will work out fine in the end!

So much more than a cautionary tale, the story allows readers to explore the value of keeping promises, of being able to trust one another and staying safe. Mama’s response to her returning cubs is warm and sound, showing the importance of listening to one another and sharing feelings. The love this little family shares is beautifully captured through both the text and the (gorgeous!) illustrations, with Popo sticking by her sister and not deserting Ketu when she faces great danger.

Jim Field’s illustrations are absolutely wonderful and are sure to trigger great interest in red pandas and their habitat. Some of the landscapes he has created capture the same beauty as pictures painted in the traditional Chinese style which I brought back from my travels there many years ago. Evocative and ethereal, they make the book a thing of beauty!

A gorgeous addition to the series- and perhaps my new favourite!

The Pandas Who Promised

Rachel Bright and Jim Field

Hachette ISBN: 978-1408356104

You can read my review of The Koala Who Could here, The Squirrels Who Squabbled here, The Way Home for Wolf here and The Whale Who Wanted More here.

Crookhaven: The Forgotten Maze

Gabriel Avery is returning to Cookhaven for his second year, looking forward to seeing his friends, Amira, the Brothers Crimm, Ade and Ede, and Penelope Crook. But Penelope is far from friendly as her father and the co-headmaster, Caspian Crook, has forbidden her to see them or work as part of their crew. An almost impossible challenge, diving classes and the hidden Maravel’s Maze mean that Gabriel and his crew have a tough year ahead!

I really enjoyed the first ‘Crookhaven’ book which brilliantly set the scene for more adventures to come. Gabriel Avery is a very appealing character. Despite his criminal tendencies, his warm heart, loyalty and ability to see the best in others make him a very rounded, likeable lad. His devotion to his Grandma, the lady who has raised him, and his desire to see her happily settled is really lovely so it is not surprising that his kindness extends to others. Each member of the ‘crew’ brings their own strengths and their personalities complement each other, showing how much stronger they are when they work as a team.

The plot moves along at a very satisfying pace with teachers and pupils alike being pleasingly developed to create an engaging boarding school story with plenty of action and excitement. It ends with another dilemma for Gabriel which will keep readers on tenterhooks waiting for the next instalment! A great read!

Crookhaven: The Forgotten Maze

J J Arcanjo

Hodder ISBN: 978-1444965759

You can read my review of ‘Crookhaven: The School for Thieves’ here.