How to Find a Yeti

A self-proclaimed yeti expert decides that he is going to find the yeti which he is sure lives in the forest behind his house. Having packed his rucksack and donned his favourite scarf, the little boy and his dog, Milo, set off for the trees. Having searched everywhere, the little boy returns home having concluded that there is NO yeti in the forest…but how has his lost scarf found its way back to his doorstep?

‘How to Find a Yeti’ is an absolutely delightful picture book which will have little ones giggling in delight! In true ‘look behind you’ tradition, they will love pointing out what the little boy just cannot see- that the yeti really is living in the forest.

Story and illustration work in perfect harmony as limited text shares the boy’s thoughts and feelings with the reader whilst the illustrations speak volumes. As he dreams of the fame which will come with his great discovery, the pictures offer so many details to notice and enjoy. Children will particularly enjoy exploring the contents of his rucksack, including a ‘just in case’ pair of pants. I fondly remember how my son used to enjoy packing all the things which he would need for a walk- although a pair of emergency pants was never included!

The real fun of the story starts as the little boy and Milo head for the forest. Sharp eyes will notice a strangely shaped tree on the horizon which hints at things to come. The little boy fails to see what the reader does and he shines his torch into logs and stands on a high snowy ‘hill’ to peer through his binoculars. The amiable yeti makes friends with Milo and is shown to have a big heart as he returns the little boy’s lost scarf which he carefully folds and places on the doorstep, ready to be found the following morning.

As the little boy hunts high and low and looks to left and right, adults might encourage children to join in with these actions, perhaps taking the chance to reinforce directional language or prepositions. They could look in front and behind, under and over, above and below etc perhaps creating their own yeti search maps and developing imaginative play based around the story.

A fun-filled, engaging read, ‘How to Find a Yeti’ also offers so many possibilities for play, art activities and learning!

How to Find a Yeti

Matt Hunt

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805136484

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.

University of Cambridge: Build Your Own Solar System

Beautifully presented and packed with information, ‘Build Your Own Solar System’ is another ingenious book from Nosy Crow which engages children through both reading and activity.

Starting with a section entitled ‘What is the Solar System?’, the book offers clear sections of carefully explained text which deepen the reader’s knowledge and understanding of the different planets and features which make up our solar system. Dramatic illustrations illuminate every page, drawing interest and helping to guide the reader to different sections.

In addition to information about the planets, links are made to the gods and goddesses from mythology which gave them their names. Whilst many readers might be familiar with the fact that Venus is named after the Roman goddess of love and beauty, some might be surprised to learn that the tallest active volcano on Venus is named after Ma’at, the Egyptian goddess of balance, truth and justice. The role of key figures in the world of astronomy such as Abd al-Rahman al-Sufi and Galileo are also mentioned, encouraging those interested to find out more.

Perfect for enriching the Y5 Science programme of study of ‘Earth and Space’, the book not only offers a wealth of facts about our solar system, but allows children to create a model of each using the press outs in the end section and arranging them in order, reinforcing the learning from the text. There is a QR code to scan which offers step-by-step ‘how to’ videos for support if needed.

University of Cambridge: Build Your Own Solar System

Lauren Fairgrieve, illustrated by Anja Susanj

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805132776

You can read my review of ‘Birds of a Feather’ also written by Lauren Fairgrieve here.

The Strange Disappearance of Imogen Good

Fran is not looking forward to spending a week with her aunt and uncle, largely because of her rude and unfriendly cousin, Imogen. However, when she arrives, Fran finds that Imogen is missing…and no one seems to remember that she ever existed. Puzzled and frightened, Fran is determined to find out what happened to her cousin which leads her to a hidden garden which contains twelve mysterious statues.

Offering an excellent mystery, ‘The Strange Disappearance of Imogen Good’ is a pacy, compelling read which will have readers on the edge of their seats.

Short chapters told from differing viewpoints are interspersed with those telling the story of ‘The Twelve Statues of Stillness Hall’ which gradually reveals the secret of the hidden garden. As events unfold, the story reaches a very satisfying conclusion which is perfectly paced, bringing the plot to a point which still allows readers some scope for imagination. It’s hard to explain what I mean here fully without ruining the story for those who have not read it yet!

Fran is a very engaging character. Although initially scared and confused by the situation she finds herself in, she quickly shows herself to be determined and resourceful. She is also a very honest character, recognising her faults and seeking to be kind to others. Bex, a girl who lives in the same row of cottages as Imogen and her family, is a wonderfully quirky individual who sadly finds herself on the receiving end of the local bullies. Imogen is a really interesting and complex character who is not easy to take to initially yet grows on the reader as the story progresses.

Sure to keep a class on tenterhooks, there is much to recommend this as a class reader. The peer pressure and bullying experienced would make for interesting discussions and the fantasy element is sure to spark listeners’ imaginations and lead to some excellent story writing!

I was absolutely captivated and could not put this one down until I had finished!

The Strange Disappearance of Imogen Good

Kirsty Applebaum

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805131472

You can read my review of ‘The Middler’ here and ‘Troofriend’ here

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 Beast from Beneath

Malory Vayle is getting used to her new powers as a necromancer, but still has a lot to learn about her new, very talkative and self-obsessed, friend, Maggoty, a skull with a penchant for wigs. Having made the mistake of walking past a shop called ‘Les Wigs’, Maggoty is now determined to own the ‘Eleganza’, an elaborate hairpiece complete with ostrich feathers which is far too expensive for Mallory to hope to afford- there is no money for food, let alone wigs! However, Aunt Lilith, who Mallory now lives with, has come up with a scheme. Holding a Grand Séance will raise the money they need. But when this goes horribly wrong and an evil power is unleashed, Mallory and Maggoty must face great peril to thwart its evil plan. Will they succeed and, more importantly, will Mallory get his wig?

I have to confess that I was not sure about this one before I started it, but soon found myself giggling in the corner of a coffee shop at the antics of the somehow loveable Maggoty and the long-suffering Mallory! ‘The Beast from Beneath’ is a delightful romp of a story, with a slightly spooky edge!

Although the sequel to ‘Mallory Vayle and the Curse of Maggoty Skull’, it is possible to read this one as a stand alone. Plenty of background information is given, quickly catching the reader up with past events; however, if book one is as hysterical as book two, no one will want to miss it!

Maggoty is very much the star of the show! He has no filter and says things as he sees them regardless of the situation. However, when it comes to the crunch, it seems that he is more fond of Mallory than it might first appear! Although the subject matter of the book is quite dark- necromancers, evil spirits, ghosts, seances and death do not make for a light read- there is so much humour in the story that this does not read like a horror story.

Mallory is a really interesting character. Aware of her powers, she, unlike her Aunt, knows they need to be treated with care and caution, giving her a wisdom beyond her years. Both courageous and loyal, she is determined to save her aunt and is also prepared to sacrifice her own happiness to do what she thinks is the right thing.

There might be adults who have reservations about the content so this would need to be carefully considered before choosing this as a class story. Having said that, I think it would make a very entertaining class book, enjoyed by adults and children alike!

Mallory Vayle and Maggoty Skull in The Beast from Beneath

Martin Howard, illustrated by Pete Williamson

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805132264

How to Scare a Mouse and Bear

It’s Hallowe’en and Bear is determined to give Mouse a fright. However, no matter what he tried Mouse sees through costume after costume until a mysterious monster knocks on the door…

Bear and Mouse are back for their fourth adventure in ‘How to Scare a Mouse and Bear’ and it is every bit as adorable as the previous titles!

Illustrations start the story before the text kicks in as Mouse is gathering pumpkins and squashes for carving into Hallowe’en lanterns, setting the scene for the spooky season. As Bear announces his intention to scare his friend, Mouse, feisty as ever, declares that he won’t be frightened. Challenge made, Bear appears in a series of Hallowe’en costumes, each mocked by Mouse. The text follows the usual Mouse and Bear book pattern, making it reassuringly familiar and perfect for children to join in with, predicting the rhyming words whilst laughing at Mouse’s responses. Children may well enjoy thinking of other costumes which Bear might try and creating their own responses from Mouse as he appears in them! Readers will delight in the moment where Mouse realises the monster at the door is not Bear and the fact that their scare leaves these two pals cuddled together behind a chair, united once more!

The illustrations are wonderful- big and bold against single colour backgrounds, perfect for little children to focus on and enjoy. The range of expressions on Mouse and Bear’s faces as the story progresses is impressive, offering plenty of moments to pause and wonder how each is feeling at different parts of the story. I have said this before, but I think children would love to make simple glove puppets of Mouse and Bear and use them to re-enact this or any of the stories or to create their own.

I hope there are many more Mouse and Bear books to come!

How to Scare a Mouse and Bear

Ross Collins

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805135012

You can read my review of ‘We Disagree About this Tree’ here.

A World of Cats

I love most animals, but I have always been fascinated by felines and have shared my home - and my heart- with many cats over the years. In her introduction, Carlie Sorosiak says her first word was ‘kitty’; mine was ‘Sarah’ (or an approximation!), the name of our blue-cream Persian!

‘A World of Cats’ is perfect for cat-lovers like me, but also makes an absorbing read for anyone! Starting with the development of cats as we know them today, the book then considers the similarities and differences between big cats like lions with house cats. After a look at how they became domesticated, the book explores all aspects of a cat’s life and habits. The information is presented in a light-hearted, chatty style, making it accessible and easy to read as well as engaging!

Celebrating cats in history, the book looks at their role in ancient Egypt and tales of cats from the past as well as their place in the present- including Larry, the Chief Mouser of Number 10 Downing Street! There is so much to discover and enjoy about our feline friends and the contributions they make to our daily lives.

Advice on careers with cats will offer inspiration whilst guidance about what to do if you should find a stray cat or if you feel you could offer a cat a ‘forever home’ will help readers to care for any cats they might come across. A treasure trove of cat facts, stories, advice and information, ‘A World of Cats’ is essential reading!

A World of Cats

Carlie Sorosiak, illustrated by Luisa Uribe

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805136132

You can read my review of ‘A World of Dogs’ here

One Cat, Two Cats

Bright and beautiful, ‘One Cat, Two Cats’ is quite simply brilliant! Bursting with gentle humour, children will love the simple rhyming text and the feline antics on every page.

The book is wonderfully interactive with lift-the-flaps and pop-ups galore encouraging children to count the cats along the way. Each feline is full of character and every reader- grown-ups included- is sure to have their favourite and track them through the book. Cat Number One is already called Peggotty in our house, named after one of our beloved cats whilst Number 7 is Ebenezer, not because of the colouring or shape, but because of his cheeky expression!

The story might lead to children drawing twenty cats of their own- or making simple finger puppets- giving each a collar bearing a number, which could then be used to help children sequence numbers to 20. The illustrations in the story lend themselves brilliantly to oral story telling, developing descriptive and positional language whilst talking about the pictures. There is so much to explore and enjoy with this book- and not just with little children as it could easily be used to inspire paper engineering projects with older ones!

Robust pages and quality production make this a book which can - and will be!- enjoyed again and again!

One Cat, Two Cats

Jonathan Emmett, illustrated by Rob Hodgson

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805136125

Publishing 14th August 2025

You can read my review of ‘The Tyrannosaur’s Feathers’ here and ‘The Plesiosaur’s Neck’ here.

Nature Heroes

‘Nature Heroes’ is a collection of twenty biographies of dedicated people who are working with nature to save the world. It is an inspiring read which offers plenty to think about and plenty to discuss.

Some of those included are sure to be familiar to children. Chris Packham, for example, is a well-known name, but readers are sure to be amazed to learn more about this famous presenter and how his passion for wild animals has led him to where he is today. Another name which might be quickly recognised is wildlife cameraman, Hamza Yassin, who won Strictly Come Dancing.

Other biographies may well introduce readers to the story of someone they are less familiar with. I loved Ron Finley’s story which may well inspire others to create urban gardens and become Gangsta Gardeners! Other stories are equally fascinating and many are deeply poignant. The plight of pangolins and Thai Van Nguyen’s mission to save them is one such! Each biography allows the reader to discover more about the lives and work of those championing wildlife in different ways, but each with passion and determination which is admirable and inspiring.

Although packed with information, each biography is short enough to be used for a class story time or guided reading session, sure to generate plenty of discussion and stimulate lots of thinking whilst enriching the curriculum. More ‘Nature Heroes’ are referred to in the author’s conclusion, offering plenty of possibilities for research and hopefully, encouraging children to get involved and find out more about any nature projects on their own doorsteps, following their curiosity and seeing where it leads as Peggy Eby (one of the subjects of the book) thinks everyone should!

Nature Heroes

Lily Dyu, illustrated by Jackie Lay

Nosy Crow with the University of Cambridge ISBN: 978-1805136408

Choose Your Own Evolution

Using a ‘pick-your-own-path’ format, ‘Choose Your Own Evolution’ offers a really unique and engaging exploration of life on Earth. It is an incredibly engaging and accessible read!

‘The Journey’ Begins’ sets the scene, explaining that every animal has a secret history- their evolution - and that readers will be offered choices to decide their fate. Starting as a Dickinsonia, a tiny blob, three pathways are offered to set off on the evolutionary journey. Deciding that slime is my ‘style’, led to becoming a ‘Helcionellid’ where, faced with five further choices, I selected ‘Get ahead of the game’ and turned to page 89. Here, I learned that I was a survivor, having become a garden snail! However, some pathways lead to extinction, the fate of Megalodon or Titanoboa, making this an interactive and engaging read, allowing readers to learn without realising!

Bursting with facts, the book is also beautifully presented, with colourful, thoughtfully placed illustrations. It is perfect for enriching the KS2 science curriculum, adding a game-like element to learning, sure to provoke discussion about the choices on offer and the outcomes they result in. An evolutionary family tree included at the end of the book supports readers in following the stages each creature in the book has followed and a glossary offers concise definitions of the ‘technical’ terms related to the subject.

An excellent read!

Choose Your Own Evolution Go Extinct or Survive? You Decide!

Jules Howard, illustrated by Gordy Wright

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1839945533

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

Secrets of Bees

Beautifully presented, ‘Secrets of Bees’ is both informative and engaging. The role of bees and their importance is celebrated throughout the book, leaving readers with a deeper understanding of, and respect for, the brilliant creatures.

Fabulous illustrations accompany the text, visually supporting the information. A labelled diagram of a bee, for example, contributes to understanding its features, whilst other snippets of information are attractively presented alongside. These bite sized sections of text make the information easy to absorb and a comprehensive glossary at the end of the book supports understanding of the ‘technical’ vocabulary used throughout.

Every page celebrates the importance of these tiny creatures, championing the role they play and encouraging readers to value their contributions and do everything they can to help them in return from providing nest sites to planting more flowers. The book acknowledges that bees sting and it hurts when they do, explaining that this is their way of defending themselves and that they would much prefer to be left alone.

A fascinating read, ‘Secrets of Bees’ would make an excellent addition to any school or class library, enriching the curriculum and sparking interest in these precious creatures.

Secrets of Bees

Ben Hoare, illustrated by Nina Chakrabarti

Nosy Crow and Cambridge University ISBN: 978-1805133179

Wonder World: Earth

Offering a closer look at the ‘muddy, magical, marvellous miracle’ that is soil, ‘Wonder World: Earth’ is a fascinating and enjoyable read. The first in a new series, it is perfect for bringing natural science alive for younger readers.

Clear explanations are supported by engaging illustrations, encouraging readers to see the world of the worm as an exciting place. The key role played by the earth beneath our feet in the well being of the planet is really brought to life in these pages.

Starting with the different layers of the Earth, the book then zooms in on soil, explaining what it is, what it is composed of and how it varies in different parts of the world. The life it hosts, from billions of worms of varying kinds to minibeasts and microbes, is then explored, all accompanied by lively, colourful illustrations.

The chatty style of the text makes the book really accessible and is sure to capture children’s interest and encourage them to find out more about soil and the incredible role it plays. For teachers, it would make an excellent resource, encouraging children to work scientifically and supporting work in Y3 on rocks as well as considering soil as a habitat. However, it is also a book which children are sure to pick up and enjoy for its own sake!

Wonder World: Earth

Ben Lerwill, illustrated by Xuan Le

Nosy Crow in collaboration with the National Trust

ISBN: 978-1805130697

Frank and Bert: The One Where Bert Plays Football

Frank is teaching Bert all about football. Sometimes things go wrong, but Bert has a new ball and the two best friends are ready to play. When Frank spots Barbara, the best football player ever, he is delighted that she agrees to have a game with him, forgetting all about poor old Bert. But as Frank finds himself in a spot of trouble, it is his best friend Bert who is there to save him!

The latest in this lovely series about best friends, Frank and Bert, ‘The One Where Bert Plays Football’ is every bit as heartwarming and endearing as the others. Frank and Bert are very different characters, but this enhances their friendship, proving the old adage ‘opposites attract’. Good natured and loveable, Bert often obviously needs help with things and Frank is always there to support him; however, the stories show that Bert brings much to the friendship as well.

Children often experience difficulties negotiating friendships and managing to include others who might appear to be jeopardising a close relationship or taking someone away from them. In this story, Frank is dazzled by Barbara’s footie skills, flattered that she should want to play with him and so neglects his best buddie. But when the going gets tough, it is Bert who is there for Frank, proving his loyalty once again. The story offers plenty to discuss and offers opportunities for role play and drama activities to explore the feelings of the different characters and how they acted.

Although Bert is not a natural football player, Frank helps him to develop skills which play to his strengths and allow him to feel success. The illustrations are full of gentle humour and celebrate the wonderful friendship Frank and Bert share through the whole range of emotions they experience through its ups and downs. Each book in this series is an absolute joy and I hope there are many more to come!

Frank and Bert: The One Where Bert Plays Football

Chris Naylor- Ballesteros

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805134923

You can read my review of ‘Frank and Bert’ here, The One Where Bert Learns to Ride a Bike’ here and ‘The One With the Missing Biscuits’ here.

My Path

Every morning, a little snail sets off to follow their Path. Sometimes this path is shared by others; sometimes it is a lonely one; sometimes hard or unexpected. But the snail knows that it is their Path, their unique way forwards and, as long as it feels like the right thing to do, it is theirs to follow.

‘My Path’ is a delightful story about making your own decisions and choosing not to follow the crowd, but forge your own way in life. The little snail’s determination and perseverance when faced with difficult choices, their choice to ask for help when needed and the courage of their convictions, all lend themselves to discussions, supporting children to understand that they too can ‘walk the road less travelled’ and value their individuality or choose to follow the same path as others as long as this is the right path for them.

When the snail is met by those who challenge their decisions and try to tell them that they are following the wrong path, the story tell us that the snail considers what they are being told before continuing, drawing attention to the fact that not everyone agrees about things and that this is ok, but that is also fine to consider other opinions. There is no need for confrontation, name calling or animosity, but for each to follow the path they have chosen

The illustrations are delightful with the expressive face of the snail showing the range of emotions it experiences on the path it has chosen. No name is given so any child can identify with this appealing individual as they follow their own path.

My Path

Jana Curll

Nosy Crow ISBN: ‎ 978-1805134244

A Story of the Seasons

‘A Story of the Seasons’ is another beautifully produced collaboration from Nosy Crow and the National Trust. Lettering capturing elements of the changing seasons surrounded by creatures, birds, insects and flowers stands out against the matt cream background of the cover, instantly tempting the reader inside whilst attention to detail - such as a purple ribbon bookmark and the green edging of the pages - all add to the special feel of the book, making it a gift to treasure!

The content of the book is just as well presented and engaging. The introduction explains that the book looks at the changing nature of eight habitats through the seasons of the year, exploring the life cycles and habits of the creatures who live there. What follows is a real celebration of the natural world with the enthusiasm of the author encouraging readers to pause, enjoy and explore nature around them. Accessible sections of text offer facts and clearly written explanations with headings and side headings, guiding the reader and helping them to locate information.

The book is bursting with information, but also offers plenty of inspiration, encouraging active engagement with nature- noticing the first signs of spring, looking for different birds on an estuary, enjoying the park in winter. There are also historical details, references to poetry and folklore- all of which offers an enriching reading experience for all ages to enjoy, all complemented by beautiful illustrations. This is a book for families to share throughout the year- a book which will develop family traditions for experiencing and enjoying the wonders of nature.

A Story of the Seasons

Anna Wilson, illustrated by Carilina Rabei

National Trust and Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805130031

University of Cambridge: There's No Such Thing as a Silly Question

One of my favourite phrases as a teacher (and as a mum!) is always ‘there’s no such thing as a silly question’ which obviously led to children asking me some very weird and wonderful things! However, it is through asking those questions that curiosity is both satisfied and piqued, making ‘There’s No Such Thing as a Silly Question’ a brilliant book for both home and school!

Covering a wide range of subjects, each brilliantly illustrated spread presents the information in a question-and-answer format, offering readers clear explanations, written in a light-hearted, humorous style. There are questions here which you didn’t know you needed to know the answer to until you read them! Can spiders run out of web? Why don’t people snore when they are awake? What happens inside a black hole?

A very attractive and accessible book, this is perfect for dipping in and out of, but it is impossible not to spot a question which you just have to read the answer for! Although a supposed to be a book for children, ‘There’s No Such Thing as a Silly Question’ is sure to quickly become a family favourite, to be returned to again and again.

University of Cambridge: There's No Such Thing as a Silly Question

 Mike Rampton & Guilherme Karsten 

Nosy Crow ISBN:  978-1839947391

Murder at Wintertide

George and his father are heading for Lyme Regis for a family gathering to celebrate both his grandfather’s birthday and Christmas where the two halves of his step-family are coming together. This includes Isla, his slightly terrifying, very intelligent step-cousin. When a body washes up on the beach, George is convinced it has something to do with some strange lights he saw on the cliff top and together with Isla, he finds himself investigating the mystery. However, someone is determined to stop them…

Once again, Fleur Hitchcock delivers an excellent murder mystery! ‘Murder at Wintertide’ is a completely absorbing and entertaining read, every bit as enjoyable as the previous ‘Murder…’ books.

Perfectly pitched for Y6/7 readers, ‘Murder at Wintertide’ offers a captivating thriller complete with red herrings, plenty of peril and ‘pesky kids’ determined to solve the crime. Readers familiar with Lyme Regis, where the action is set, will recognise many of the details Fleur adds to the story, including the sculpture of ‘some famous fossil hunter’, and the descriptions of a seaside town in winter add much to the atmosphere of the story.

George makes an appealing main character and the complexities of his blended family life add plenty of substance and realism to the story. As his friendship with Isla develops, George realises that he has misunderstood someone who actually makes a brave an loyal friend, showing how easy it is to misjudge people. They make quite a team and it would be great to see them make a reappearance in a future book!

It is always hard to review this sort of story without giving too much away and spoiling it for others, but anyone who reads this (and everyone should!) will instantly recognise the skill with which Fleur writes these stories, making them every bit as enjoyable for older readers as for those they are officially aimed at! Thoroughly enjoyable, endlessly readable… another triumph!

Murder at Wintertide

Fleur Hitchcock

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805132233

Published 10th October 2024

You can read my review of ‘Murder at Snowfall’ here, ‘Waiting for Murder’ here and ‘Murder in Midwinter’ here.

Let Me Tell You a Joke

What’s the worst present you could give to a hedgehog?

A beach ball!

Ask any teacher and they will be able to tell you some of the many jokes they have been told over the years! Children love jokes - the cornier the better- and ‘Let Me Tell You a Joke’ is sure to be a winner!

Bursting with fifty jokes, the book offers a treasure trove of jokes in different forms, including good news/ bad news, why did the..?, what’s..? Not only will children learn the jokes and try them out on friends, they are sure to be inspired to try and create their own using these models. A QR code is included which can be scanned to access a free audio version of the book which also offers advice from the author on how to deliver the perfect joke!

Colourful, whimsical illustrations add greatly to the appeal of the book which is beautifully presented (I love the candy stripe hard cover under the jacket!). The pictures add a layer of visual humour to the jokes, perhaps supporting younger children in their understanding as well as being a joy in their own right!

Engaging and entertaining, ‘Let Me Tell You a Joke’ will be a firm favourite- and a great addition to bookshelves!

Let Me Tell You a Joke: A First Joke Book with Funny Pictures

Sean Hegarty, illustrated by Jim Field

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1839949234

Published 26th September 2024