We Are All Astronauts

Luna Scope, aged seven-and-a-bit Earth years is determined to be an astronaut. Full of enthusiasm, she is about to launch herself into her ambition, but fortunately, her granny is on hand to guide her with some excellent advice. Luna learns about spacesuits and telescopes, stars and space rocks, gravity and gravity. Granny also introduces her to some space heroes and over-looked animal pioneers whose achievements paved the way for the humans who followed.

Written in the same fun-filled, highly illustrated style as the ‘Fantastically Great Women’ series which Kate Pankhurst is so well known for, ‘We are All Astronauts’ is packed with information, sure to engage and fascinate. The author’s note explains her inspiration for writing the story came from the real-life story of the Mercury 13, a group of female trainee astronauts who never reached space because they were women. The book is brimming with positivity and inspiration, shining a light on the contributions of women, and proudly shouting the message that anyone can be an astronaut- or anything else- if they reach for the stars!

The joy of this book is that it will appeal to children of different ages who will read it in different ways. There is much to explore in the illustrations, Granny and Luna’s story to follow, biographical information, labelled diagrams, fact boxes… it is possible to read it in small snippets or as a whole, thoroughly enjoying it however it is tackled. Asterisks are used to indicate definitions of some of the technical vocabulary used, clearly explaining words to support the reader’s understanding without spoiling the flow of the text.

Perfect for using as a guided reading text, to support learning about space, as the basis for investigative play or as a basis for a book group session full of fun activities, ‘We Are All Astronauts!’ makes an excellent addition to any bookshelf!

We are ALL Astronauts Kate Pankhurst

Bloomsbury ISBN: ‎ 978-1526615435

Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.

Mermedusa

This fifth and final trip to Eerie-on-Sea concludes Herbie and Violet’s adventures and, like others I’m sure, I read ‘Mermedusa’ with mixed feelings- delight at another visit to one of my favourite fictional places and great sadness that there would be no more!

The hosts of the Anomalous Phenomena podcast have arrived in Eerie-on-Sea with the intention of uncovering the truth about the Malamander and broadcast this to the world. Already troubled by unsettling dreams and a strange humming throbbing through the town, Herbert Lemon, Lost-and-Founder at the Grand Nautilus Hotel, is horrified when his arch-nemesis, Sebastian Eels, re-appears in the town. Together, Herbie and Violet must discover the Deepest Secret of eerie-on-Sea- and ‘find’ themselves in the process.

‘Mermedusa’ is a stunning finish to what has been the most enjoyable series of books. Thomas Taylor cleverly draws all the threads of the story together, offering a satisfying conclusion to the mysteries of Eerie-on-Sea. Most importantly, Violet and Herbie have not only found themselves, but have found each other in a true and enduring friendship which really shows how opposites attract and complement each other!

Each character in these books is wonderfully unique and completely unforgettable from the Mermonkey at The Eerie Book Dispensary and Erwin the talking cat to the eccentric Lady Kraken who watches the town with her cameraluna and grumpy hotel manager, Mr Mollusc, who the reader learns more of in this final book.

As well as making an excellent series to be enjoyed and explored independently, these books are excellent for guided reading sessions or as whole class story time texts. Full of humour and heart, there are so many ways in which the ‘Eerie-on-Sea Mysteries’ are perfect for developing a love of reading.

Mermedusa Thomas Taylor

Walker ISBN: 978-1529502138

Published on 7th September

Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.

You can read my review of ‘Malamander’ here and ‘Festergrimm’ here. (Apologies that ‘Shadowghast’ is missing from the photo- it’s been borrowed!)

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.

The Silver Road

Rosaleen Darke- Rose- is struggling at her new school. Tormented by Emer McGuire and her ‘fan club’ for being a scholarship pupil, Rose is also still grieving the loss of her Mamó, who she misses desperately. Taking the long way home from school, however, has the benefit of taking her past the shops of Gracie and Nellie with whom she has developed a friendship.

Unable to sleep one night, Rose hears noises and finds herself facing an ice giant, who entrusts her with a powerful stone which Rose must keep from falling into the wrong hands. Luckily Gracie and Nellie are not quite what they seem and are able to explain to Rose that she has been chosen as the stone’s guardian. As the Old Magic is weakening, evil is rising and Rose finds herself on a breath-taking quest to protect the Silver Road and the magic than runs through the land.

Well, what a story this is! Any attempt at a summary seems clumsy and cannot possibly capture the essence of this wonderful tale. Drawing on the age-old mythology of Ireland, ‘The Silver Road’ offers the perfect starting point for introducing readers to this wealth of stories whilst appreciating Sinéad’s skill as a storyteller as she adds plenty of imagination and flair of her own. I was captivated from the outset and could not put the book down and since finishing, have been inspired to revisit some of the old tales.

Rose is a brilliant character. Fresh and uncomplicated, she just wants to fit in and do her best. Although she has a loving, supportive family, like many, she doesn’t want to add to their worries by sharing her problems, particularly as her dad’s employer is Emer’s dad. She escapes into her books, but also takes comfort from the friendship she forms with Gracie and Nellie. They are incredible souls, not just because of their magic, but because of the kindness they show- and their love of cake! Catshee, the cat, not cat is possibly my favourite character, however, and shows how skilfully the author blends the traditional and the newly imagined to make a tale of wonder.

‘The Silver Road’ whispers to the reader of so many things- the importance of our environment, the magic of the old tales, our connection to the land and to one another, the importance of family, finding the strength to be yourself and have the determination and courage to face things life throws at you. It is a brilliantly crafted tale and I loved it. It would make an excellent guided reading text for the ‘right’ group of children or a gripping class story. So much to love!

The Silver Road Sinéad O’Hart

Piccadilly Press ISBN: 978-1800785090

Published 28th September 2023

You can read my review of ‘The Eye of the North’ here and ‘The Time Tider’ here.

The Time Tider

Mara and her father, Gabriel, live in their van and are constantly on the move. Her father is forever tinkering with watches, completely absorbed in his work, plotting the next stop on their never ending journey. Mara has never questioned their way of life until one day she discovers some papers hidden in the van referring to the to ‘the Tider’, someone responsible for harvesting lost time. Shocked and full of questions, Mara is left reeling when Gabriel is taken by a dangerous group who wish to use his powers for evil. Desperate for help, Mara tries to find her father’s friend, Lenny and meets a boy called Jan who seems determined to help her. Together, they must find Gabriel before it's too late.

My clumsy synopsis does not do justice to this brilliant book. It is such a well-crafted, absorbing story, set in a world where ‘spare’ time must be harvested by the Time Tider to avoid it gathering and causing warps; however, it also poses questions in the moral implications of someone having the power and responsibility this bestows and the potential for corruption and evil which might follow.

The author skilfully builds Mara’s world and the arts of the Time Tider with exerts from ‘The Time Tider’s Handbook’ being threaded through the story between chapters. Mara is a unique character. Isolated by their unusual lifestyle, their poverty and constant travelling, she is naturally distrustful and cautious, but also curious and courageous. You can’t help but cheer her on as she faces each challenge and decision she must take.

The Time Tider would make an excellent class read, sure to excite the imagination and lead to much discussion and exploration of ideas. I have loved each book by Sinead O’Hart, but feel this is her best yet!

The Time Tider Sinéad O’Hart

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1788953306

Huxley and Flapjack: Race to the Rescue

Huxley is a little koala filled with energy and zest for life. Flapjack, his penguin friend, is far more anxious and cautious, but together, they make the perfect team. They live in a treehouse just outside the town and when a new store opens, they hop on their tandem to take a look. Although the manager isn’t entirely happy, they have lots of fun investigating everything from the revolving doors to the very bouncy trampoline in the sports department, but when Huxley is mistaken for a thief, they must come up with a plan to prove his innocence.

From its zingy yellow cover to its wonderful colour illustrations, this gorgeous early chapter book is bursting with energy and adventure, sure to capture the imagination- and hearts- of its readers. Huxley and Flapjack prove that opposites attract and that true friends can be quite different to you in both tastes and backgrounds.

Huxley is impulsive, acting before thinking things through, and sometimes (like when riding on the tandem) relying on Flapjack to do all the work. Flapjack is a more sensitive, gentle soul who tempers Huxley’s impetuous urges, yet benefits as the friendship encourages him to do things he might otherwise not do. There is much here to discuss with children who might see themselves in either character!

The illustrations are completely delightful, full of things to notice and smile about. Flapjack’s range of changing expressions is a priceless as he is caught up in Huxley’s madcap pace of doing things! The story could inspire many crafty activities, making it perfect for book group sessions as well as for enjoying at home or school. I could see this series making an excellent cartoon series as well!

Sure to become firm favourites, Huxley and Flapjack are highly appealing characters which children are going to want to read about. Great fun!

Huxley and Flapjack: Race to the Rescue

Alan MacDonald, illustrated by Francesca Gambatesa

Little Tiger ISBN: 978- 1788954174

A Sprinkling of Danger

‘A Sprinkling of Danger’ finds Alice Éclair on another spying adventure. When an American film crew arrives at the beautiful palace of Versailles, there is great excitement, but suspicions that a spy is amongst them means Alice is once more on the case. Using her baking skills, Alice manages to gain a place on set along with her fellow spy, Pierre. However, Pierre seems to have his own agenda, leaving Alice to face danger on her own. This could be her stickiest mission yet…

…there is something very magical about cake and kindness.

Every bit as delicious as the two previous mysteries, ‘A Sprinkling of Danger’ is a brilliant read. Alice remains as resourceful and determined, combining excellent observation skills, a passion for pastries and a nose for adventure as she solves the mission she has been set. In this story, she not only has to contend with solving the case, but is also challenged by the sneering, unhelpful actions of Pierre who is supposed to be working on her side, but is as obnoxious as can be.

Versailles (one of my favourite places in the world!) makes a magical backdrop for the tale and the author has done a wonderful job of capturing the beauty and wonder of this stunning location, dropping little nuggets of historical information in every now and then. Against this setting, Alice whips up her fantastic culinary treats, making the reader’s mouth water as they try to crack the case. There are plenty of red herrings to distract and misdirect, but in the end, Alice triumphs, not only exposing the enemy spy, but resolving her questions about Pierre.

Perfect for reading as part of the series or as a stand-alone adventure, the story ends with hints about a next mission and I, for one, can’t wait to read it!

Alice Éclair Spy Extraordinaire: A Sprinkling of Danger

Sarah Todd Taylor, illustrations by Beatriz Castro

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1839948855

Out on the 14th September!

You can read my review of ‘A Recipe for Trouble’ here and ‘A Spoonful of Spying’ here.

Blog Tour: Zeina Starborn and the Emerald King

Today, I am thrilled to be taking part in the Blog Tour for ‘Zeina Starborn and the Emerald King’.

I absolutely loved ‘Zeina Starborn and the Sky Whales’. The sequel, Zeina Starborn and the Emerald King’ is every bit as excellent, offering a very satisfying continuation of the story.

From the first page, the reader is pulled back into this incredibly vivid, captivating world. The corruption of those in power and their complete disregard for the safety and wellbeing of the sky whales and other people is very relevant, making this a thought-provoking as well as enjoyable read.

Zeina is a wonderful character. Warm-hearted, trusting and kind, she is supportive of those around her and determined to see things through. Jackson really comes into his own in this story, focused on correcting the wrongs of his family and freeing all the sky whales. The reader also learns more about Sparks in this story as she increasingly finds her voice with those she trusts.

Compelling story, engaging characters, excellent writing all combine to make an excellent story. I can’t wait to see what Zeina and Jackson get up to next- and I hope we don’t have to wait too long before we find out!

Now, I am delighted to welcome author, Hannah Durkan, to the Bookshelf to share a Q and A about her wonderful books.

1. Please can you introduce us to your characters Zeina and Jackson?

Zeina Starborn is brave and adventurous; she knows what she wants and doesn’t worry too much about bending (breaking) rules to get it! As a Below, she should be happy to work in her polluted city for the rest of her life, yet she dreams of exploring the skies and is determined to do that, no matter the consequences. On the other hand, Jackson Willoughby can be quite sensitive and cautious. As an Above, he is destined to live a life of luxury aboard an airship or sky whale hotel, but what he really wants is to find friends and a family who cares about him. Zeina and Jackson clash completely as characters, but they must begin to trust and learn from each other if they are going to discover the hidden truths in their world.

2.       Where did you get the idea for sky whales? Did you consider any other animals?

I had been dreaming of sky whales long before I started writing Zeina Starborn. I think the idea originally came from visiting the Natural History Museum as a child and seeing ‘Hope’ – the skeleton of a blue whale that now hangs high above visitors’ heads as they enter the main hall. I can remember feeling tiny in comparison and in complete wonder of how she appeared to be flying. I think there are similarities between the oceans and the skies and I can certainly imagine writing about other flying ocean-dwellers in future.

3.       If you could travel anywhere in the world on a sky whale, where would you go and why?

My favourite type of holiday is when I’m exploring somewhere new, a location that I’ve never visited before. If I could choose, then I’d love to go to Sweden, as I’ve never been anywhere like that before and I have been researching ice hotels for Zeina Starborn and the Emerald King. I think watching the Northern Lights aboard a flying sky whale would be pretty special – that’s if the sky whale was ok with it, obviously!

4.       As an author, do you have a specific place to write, or can you write anywhere?

I need relative peace and quiet to write. (Relative because with two small children, quiet can sometimes be hard to find!) I also get bored easily so I have to break up a full day of writing with some location changes. I might start at my desk and then move to the kitchen table, but best of all is when I make it out to a café! It doesn’t happen very often, but when it does, a cup of coffee, a slice of cake and the background hubbub is writing perfection.

5.       What do you hope readers take from this series?

I hope that the series inspires its readers to be curious about the world around them, to ask big questions and to have the strength to make a stand when they don’t like the answers. Zeina, as a character, is far from perfect, but she’s brave, determined to follow her dreams, she cares for others and is learning all the time. I wrote her that way because that’s the advice I would give my children on how to best make their way in the world.

Many thanks to Hannah for sharing this and thanks to Hachette for inviting me to take part in the Blog Tour. Make sure you read this series- and enjoy the rest of the posts on the Tour!

You can read my review of Zeina Starborn and the Sky Whale here and you can find teaching resources here.

Blog Tour: The Housetrap

Today, I am delighted to be taking part in the Blog Tour for the deliciously dark new novel from Emma Read, ‘The Housetrap’. A complete change of pace from her ‘Milton the Mighty’ books, this one is not to be entered lightly…

As Delilah McDeery’s best friend, Claude, is moving to Cornwall, she is visiting him to say goodbye. However, all Claude seems interested in is playing Escape Room II with his new best friend, Sam. Sent outside- ‘Devices are banned’- by Claude’s mother, they are joined by Amity, Claude’s little sister. Tension between the older children quickly mounts and an argument erupts during which Amity wanders off into Badwell Woods. Forbidden to the children, the woods are full of dangerous sinkholes- and stories of missing children. Determined to find her, the others follow and discover an abandoned mansion and although it gives Claude an uneasy feeling, a scream from Amity makes him and the others rush inside…

And for fear of spoiling the story for others, I shall stop my summary right there! Emma Read has created a novel full of atmosphere and tension which is both clever and frightening. It’s essential to know the child before you recommend them this one!!

I am not the biggest horror fan. Sinister things linger with me so it is usually best if I go no where near them, but in ‘The Housetrap’, Emma has managed to strike the perfect balance between thrilling adventure and all-out scary story, making this a thoroughly enjoyable, exciting read. In order to solve the house trap and set themselves free, the children have to face a series of puzzles to solve two mysteries: the disappearance of Hypatia Batstone, daughter of the inventor of the house puzzle, and the clues on each level which will allow them to leave the building. The reader is completely absorbed from the outset, willing the children to succeed as the house shifts and reforms around them on their journey through the ‘game’.

The story also explores friendships and how the dynamics can shift and change as children grow. Delilah and Claude have been friends forever so Delilah feels understandably displaced by Sam, the new best friend, who seems to take great delight in baiting her. As they are forced to spend time together and start to get to know one another better, things change and together, they make quite a team. Delilah’s mathematical ability and knack with puzzles is an obvious bonus, but each brings strengths to the challenge.

An excellent spine-tinglingly enjoyable mystery/adventure, ‘The Housetrap’ is a brilliant read! Are you brave enough to enter..?

The Housetrap Emma Read

Chicken House ISBN: 978-1913322786

Many thanks to Chicken House for inviting me to be part of the tour today. Make sure you have a look at the other brilliant stops on the tour as well!

You can read my review of Milton the Mighty here and Milton the Magastar here.

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Blog Tour: The Sundae Delivery Service

Today, it is my great pleasure to be taking part in the blog tour for ‘The Sundae Delivery Service’ by Holly Rivers. Below is my review…

After their previous adventure, life for Orinthia and the others have settled back into life working for Grandy Brock and his animails at The Mailbox Menagerie. However, the offer of free ice cream is too much for them and this leads to a new friendship with Dotty, daughter of the owners of the ‘Penny Lick’ ice cream van and the ‘Two Scoops Creamery’. Soon, the children are helping with the ice cream parlour’s entry for the prestigious Golden Udder ice cream awards and training cows to deliver their entry to the judges. However, the world of ice cream making is more devious than they would ever have believed and they find themselves at the heart of a mystery!

With so many fabulous books around, sometimes you find you’ve missed a real goodie… and I have to confess that I haven’t read the first book in this series- ‘The Boy in the Post’- but will be rectifying this immediately! Whilst it is absolutely possible to read ‘The Sundae Delivery Service’ without having read the previous book, it seems to me I’ve missed a treat by not doing so!

Full of quirky originality and charm, the story is a joy to read. The children are very ‘real’ with their own idiosyncrasies, interests and personalities which creates a cast of engaging characters. Orinthia and new friend, Dotty, are at centre stage for this adventure, but each of the others feels like a fully formed character, not just an add on. The friendship between these two is lovely- an immediate, uncomplicated relationship which survives fallings out and comes back stronger. Both girls are resourceful, curious and determined to solve the mystery surrounding the competition- they make a great team.

The story is also very well written, full of carefully chosen vocabulary and vivid descriptions. It would make an excellent guided reading text as it offers plenty to discuss and explore whilst thoroughly enjoying the story. I very much hope there are more adventures to come for these characters.

The Sundae Delivery Service

Holly Rivers

Chicken House ISBN: 978-1912626052

Many thanks to Chicken House for inviting me to take part in this Blog Tour. There are plenty more post to go so make sure you follow on and enjoy them all!

Electric Life

Alara lives a ‘perfect’ life in Estrella where everything is tightly controlled and it is mandatory to carry a ‘Flip’ (Fully Linked Information Platform) so everyone is connected. Feelings of boredom and being ‘dulled’ are frowned upon yet Alara often feels disconnected. The skyscraper city is built on the ruins of the old city, now known as London Under, and Alara finds herself selected to go on a secret mission to gather vital intelligence about a world completely different to her own. But what she discovers makes her start to question everything she has known…

I have said it before, but have to say it again- Rachel Delahaye is an outstanding writer who really knows how to create believable worlds and compelling characters, immersing the reader completely in the story. ‘Electric Life’ is a one-sitting read- it is impossible to put down once started.

As with ‘Day of the Whale’, another of Rachel’s books, the story is both a thoroughly good read and offers plenty to think about. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that not everything is as it seems in the perfect world of Estrella, posing questions about what citizens of the ‘Star City’ might be sacrificing for their idyllic lifestyle. Everyone seems to live their lives through and around their screens which provide entertainment and constantly monitor their health and safety. They are happy to accept the parameters and rules which keep them safe… there are so many questions to be asked here and Alara’s experiences certainly make the reader think about

The story is fast-paced and full of action, building a frighteningly believable version of the future. Alara is a very likeable character- standing out against the stereotypical versions of her peers, not quite fitting in, longing for different. Readers may well recognise her clumsy attempts to ‘find’ friends and be ‘normal’ and like her all the more for ultimately coming to be herself. As she has experiences we take for granted for the first time- feeling pain, sharing human contact, tasting real food, the wild joy of a party night out- you can feel her coming alive and responding to each new sensation.

There is so much more I could say, but for fear of spoiling this brilliant book for other readers, I will finish by saying- it’s fab. Make sure you read it!

Electric Life Rachel Delahaye

Troika ISBN: 978-1912745326

You can read my review of ‘Day of the Whale’ here.

Peril on the Atlantic

In July, 1936, the Queen Mary sets sail across the Atlantic and Alice can't wait for the summer of adventure that lies ahead. At last, she is able to accompany her sailor father on board ship. But whilst he is focused on winning the prestigious Blue Riband, Alice finds herself witness to an attack on a steward by the name of Joseph Wilks. Determined to uncover the truth, Alice, with the help of fellow passengers, Sonny and Miriam, and bellboy, Charlie, start to uncover a devious plot of sabotage and intrigue. As tension and danger mount, they need to solve the mystery before it’s too late.

What a brilliant story! Historic detail has been skilfully balanced with a gripping plot which is engrossing to the final page. Information- and misinformation- builds the mystery to its satisfying conclusion, leaving the reader ready for more in Alice’s next adventure.

Keen for adventure and delighted to at last be able to accompany her father on his travels, Alice is an engaging character. The friendships she builds whilst on board with Sonny, Miriam and Charlie evidence her kind, accepting nature and the story benefits greatly from their team work and resilience as they work together to solve the puzzle.

In the best Agatha Christie tradition, the action swells towards the final denouement, with all the red herrings and false starts falling away to reveal the culprits. There is plenty of tension and just the right amount of peril to keep the reader on the edge of their seat as the final reveal.. but I can’t say any more about this! Read it and see if it surprises you too!

Scattered with historical details, ‘Peril on the Atlantic’ is a brilliant read, perfect for sharing as a class story or for using as guided reading text. It is exactly the sort of story I would have loved when I was younger and is every bit as good as ‘The Garden of Lost Secrets’, ‘The Secret of the Treasure Keepers’ and ‘The House of One Hundred Clocks’. I can’t wait to read the next of the ‘Mysteries at Sea’ series!

Peril on the Atlantic A M Howell

Usborne ISBN: 978-1801316743

You can read my review of ‘The House of One Hundred Clocks’ here and ‘The Secret of the Treasure Seekers’ here.

Ning and the Night Spirits

A little boy called Ning lives in Long Shan Valley where every night his family light lamps to scare away the night spirits. Although he really wants to find out more about the spirits, Ning cannot ask the other children as they seem every bit as scary as any night spirit. Hearing his parents worrying about him, Ning heads off into the forest where he meets a night spirit who is anything, but scary. They quickly become friends and Ning meets other amazing creatures and spirits which live in the forest. Finding that they are hiding in the forest because they are scared of people, Ning knows he must find the courage - and the words- to help them.

Perfect for sharing at home or at school, ‘Ning and the Night Spirits’ is, like all Flying Eye publications, a beautifully produced book, tempting readers to pick it up and explore the story within.

Ning is a quiet child who is unsure around other children, lacking the confidence to talk to them. In order to help the creatures of the forest, he has to overcome his fears and find a way to make himself heard. The story is sure to make readers empathise with Ning and encourage discussions about how the children might have been able to support him with overcoming his fears. This might lead to conversations about other fears and seeking ways to tackle these.

The story also shows how easily misconceptions can arise as both the villagers and the creatures of the forest believe they have something to fear from the unknown. It takes Ning to bring the two sides together and explain the misunderstanding on each side, encouraging a celebration of their differences as they learn more about each other. Children might also notice that the animals have been driven away from their natural habitat by the actions of humans- again, leading to discussions about the world around us and being thoughtful towards, and respectful of, everything that lives in it.

Each spread is wonderfully illustrated, with lots of details to notice and enjoy. The spirits and the creatures Ning meets are perfect for sparking imagination and encouraging children to create their own whilst the map on the end papers (showing the change in Ning at the end!) is perfect for using as support for plotting stories in Ning’s world.

A delightful story!

Ning and the Night Spirits Adriena Fong

Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1913123161

Miss Mary-Kate Martin’s Guide to Monsters: The Wrath of Woolington Wyrm

Mary-Kate Martin worries with a number of things including sudden changes. And at the moment, her life seems full of changes. Instead of staying with her Granny, she is going with her mother to Woolington Grange on an archaeological investigation to investigate some bones found at the bottom of an old well. They arrive to find strange things are happening and the town’s folk divided by Lord Woolington’s plans for a shopping centre. As Mary-Kate investigates, she finds there is more to the town than she expected.

This is the first book in what is set to be an incredible series of adventures for Mary-Kate Martin as she travels with her mother, Professor Martin (or Prof to Mary-Kate). Mary-Kate is a brilliant character. Prone to anxiety, she develops a range of strategies for dealing with situations which make her uncomfortable. She doesn’t like beginnings or endings, but is good at what happens in between so sometimes taking that first step is all important! Her mother is quietly supportive and encouraging, never drawing attention to her daughter’s concerns, but helping her find her own way to overcoming difficulties. Allowed space in this way, Mary-Kate establishes a friendship with Arabella, who is completely different, but together, they make a determined team, solving the mystery of the Woolington wyrm. Mary-Kate finds courage she never knew she had and armed with strong principles and new found friendship, she launches herself into some scary situations in order to solve the mystery.

The story moves along at a pleasing pace and there is plenty of gentle humour (I love the antics of Pickles the pony!) along the way. It is a delightful read, offering something a little different. I really look forward to seeing where Mary-Kate’s adventures take her next.

Miss Mary-Kate Martin’s Guide to Monsters: The Wrath of the Woolington Wyrm

Karen Foxlee, illustrated by Freda Chiu

Pushkin Children’s ISBN: 978-1782694137

Published in August

Serpent of the Sands

Gan- Princess Ganzorig- has a real taste for adventure and when one of her beloved uncles, King Temur, falls dangerously ill, she sets off in her sky-ship, the Sky-archer, with Slink, a sapient gerbil who has taken a fancy to her and Thorn, a boy who’s escaped from the slums of Lontown in search of a new life. She is intent on finding a cure, a plant said to be guarded by a powerful sapient, the Serpent of the Sands, although she fears this might only be a children’s story. However, as she and her companions travel to incredible places, treachery is at hand and their journey is fraught with many perils- and secrets.

‘Brightstorm’ is one of my all-time favourite books to read to a class. Not only does it offer certain parallels to Shackleton’s journey, making it an excellent accompaniment to learning about explorers, it is wonderful to read aloud, with rich descriptions, relatable characters and plenty of action and adventure. ‘Serpent of the Sands’ is the fourth of ‘The Brightstorm Chronicles’ and, I am delighted to say, maintains the high standard set by the first!

Gan is a wonderful character. Her impetuous nature, courage and kind heart are a winning combination. Thorn is a very different personality, balancing her impulsiveness, but coming up trumps when needed. Slink is bursting with character- sure to be a firm favourite with young readers! – and the other sapients they meet along the way are also well developed characters.

Vashti’s world building is second to none and once again, the reader is swept from location to location, each vividly brought to life and a perfect part of this world. A little map at the front of the book means that readers can plot Gan’s journey across Nadvaaryn and communications between Gan and the Brightstorm twins mean that there is surely more to come from this wonderful series of stories.

An excellent read from an excellent author!

Serpent of the Sands Vashti Hardy

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702312267

Until the Road Ends

When Peggy saves a stray, she and Beau, the dog, become inseparable. However, they are forced apart by the war as Peggy and her brother, Wilf, are evacuated to the safely of the coast, leaving Beau- and Wilf’s grumpy cat, Mabel, behind in the city on the condition that the animals are not put down. Although lonely, Beau is allowed to help Peggy’s father in his Air Raid Warden’s duties, saving countless lives as he scents those trapped by fallen buildings. But disaster strikes and both Peggy’s parents are killed, leaving the animals vulnerable and alone. Determined to be reunited with the person he loves the most, Beau, a very unwilling and uncooperative Mabel, and Bomber, a resourceful and determined pigeon, set off on the journey of a lifetime.

This is the third novel by Phil Earle which is set during World War II and like the others, it should come with a packet of tissues attached. Phil’s incredible skill as a storyteller, his ability to capture poignant moments and his attention to detail makes each of these stories a special read- but this is, I think, my favourite. I am not ashamed to say that I was reduced to a sobbing wreck in places- but this is the power of Phil’s writing and it should be celebrated.

The story is full of historical details, with an afterword by Phil explaining where fact meets fiction, making this an excellent text to share with children who are learning about, or who are keen to find out more about, this period of history. The bravery of the humans and animals who worked as Air Raid Wardens, the destruction and devastation of the Blitz, the needless loss of life are all witnessed through the eyes of the animals, whose voices are unheard and unheeded, yet are key to this narrative. There is also the joy of discovering that there really was someone who cared enough about animals at this time to create a rescue centre in a cinema! Phil Earle captures all of this in a way which children can understand- and learn from.

In part, the story is reminiscent of Sheila Burnford’s ‘The Incredible Journey’ – the devoted bond between pets and their humans which is so strong that nothing will stop them being together- but this book does so much more than that. It’s about love and loss and reunion, valour, determination and belief, kindness, truth and joy. There are many deeply poignant moments as the story unfolds which ring true, provoking genuine emotion in the reader who is deeply bound up in the story of Beau, Mabel and Bomber.

A must-have.

Until the Road Ends Phil Earle

Andersen Press ISBN: 978-1839133169

Out in June.

Spellstone

Evie is used to not being noticed. But when she meets the mysterious Wainwright, she discovers that going unnoticed might just be what makes her unique. Recruited into a secret magical organisation, Evie finds herself at the heart of an ancient and magical battle. Evil is returning to the land, and Evie is the only person who can stop it. But how can she defeat the most dangerous magician in the world, when she doesn’t even know her own powers?

The above synopsis is not mine! There was so much that I loved about this story that any summary I tried to make became nearly as long as the book!

‘Spellstone’ is one of those books which you want everyone around you to read so that you can fully discuss just how wonderful it is with them. An action-packed, page-turner of an adventure, the story is also beautifully written, rich in detail and description. I have enjoyed each book that I have read by Ross Montgomery (almost all he has written), but this is far and away my favourite and a prime candidate for being chosen as a class story!

Evie is a very likeable character. Struggling to understand why her world has changed and why people, including her parents, no longer seem to notice her, she then finds herself launched into the world of the Order of the Stone. Her resilience, determination, courage and good nature have the reader cheering her on from the outset and she quickly establishes a warm bond with the other members of the Order. Each of this team is brilliantly portrayed with their own magical ability, quirks and foibles. I love each for different reasons, but there’s something about Lady Alinora which really appeals to me!

The story unfolds magically with everything coming together in a very satisfying (and clever) conclusion. Hints of myth and legend combine with real life settings such as Postman’s Park in London, rooting the magical firmly in the ‘real’ world in which magic is ever present, just unseen or ignored.

‘Spellstone’ is an incredible read- perfect for using as a key text, for guided reading, as a class story or independent reading. I cannot recommend this one highly enough and will be buying it for my nephew at the weekend!

Spellstone Ross Montgomery

Walker ISBN: 978-1529501933

Blog Tour: Wendington Jones and the Missing Tree

Today, I am delighted to be taking part in the Blog Tour for ‘Wendington Jones and the Missing Tree’. This story is a thoroughly enjoyable adventure with Wendington being an original, engaging protagonist. Many twists, turns and red herrings keep the reader guessing throughout whilst rooting for the young heroine as she makes her literal (and metaphorical!) journey. But who is Wendington Jones? Author, Daniel Dockery, tells us more…

Wendington Jones is an adventurer. A classic old-school, horse-riding, 1920’s boot-stomping anthropologist in training. But she’s a modern-day interpretation of what those explorers could have been in a better world. A kinder, more scientifically minded swashbuckler who’s still as daring, even if she’s a little too naïve about the way the world, and the people in it, really are. So when setbacks come, it’s up to Wendington’s indomitable spirit to get herself back up again, learn from her mistakes and forge forward. To see the world, and not destroy it in the process. The point of view, if the hero of 1999’s The Mummy had been Rachel Weisz’s bold, forthright librarian, and not Brendan Fraser’s wise-cracking, treasure hunter.

Setting it in the hopeful, if now ill-fated 1920s, puts Wendington in the age of discovery and at the forefront of Women’s suffrage. It’s a huge playground in which to throw a bold, engineering focused want-to-be adventurer. And while we don’t miss out on either the twisting plot or thrilling action, this is also a story of something else. The story of a young woman who’s lived her life entirely in the books she’s read and not the real world. Someone who thinks she’s ready for just about anything. Until her mother’s death brings Wendington’s whole world crashing down around her.

Wendington’s grief both drives and consumes her. This is also how a resilient, if bookish young woman, is forced to pick up the shattered pieces of her life and try to find a way to put them back together again. It is the same journey anyone who has been through intense grief has been forced to do so, through perhaps they had fewer people shooting at them while they did it. And like most young adults facing the tough realities of the world in front of them, Wendington has the tools to help herself, she just doesn’t quite know how to use them just yet. And it’s only through trial and error, doggedness and the kindness of others that she learns to walk again.

Courageous, analytic and practical when all else fails, Wendington’s an old school adventurer for our modern-day age. One with doggedness, brilliance and kindness running through her veins. A wit as dry as the Egyptian sands, Wendington’s got the taste for adventure, now all she has to do is survive long enough to find her next one. . .

 Wendington Jones and the Missing Tree Daniel Dockery

UCLan Publishing ISBN: 978-1915235374

Published 6th April 2023

Many thanks to Daniel and the team at UCLan for inviting me to take part in this Blog Tour. ‘Wendington Jones and the Missing Tree’ is a great read- perfect for Y6 and above!

Fireblood: The First Flight

Dragons don’t exist. But they used to…

Discovering that the magic of dragons flows through your veins is frightening – and liberating! But with the powers of dragonkind comes a desperate quest: siblings Finn and Tula must travel to a hidden island fortress to help save their father – and the world they know; and discover the truth of their incredible fireblood heritage.

‘Fireblood’ is a compelling, absorbing read, full of magic and adventure. Finn and Tula have been sheltered from the world by their father, but when he disappears, they find themselves caught in a web of danger, magic and adventure as they embark on a quest to save their father, the world- and find their true selves.

The plot is brilliantly constructed with the reader being offered glimpses and hints which come together as some final revelations are made in a very satisfying conclusion to the book which still allows for more adventure to follow. Evocative descriptions vividly bring the settings to life as the children set off on their perilous journey to save their father, travelling from Bristol to the mysterious island of Portaldor and on to Iceland. Sam Stewart’s world building is second to none, full of creative, imaginative details.

Finn and Tula have a wonderful relationship, sharing a close bond of affection and understanding, developed during their unorthodox upbringing. They are courageous and determined and each flourishes over the course of the story as they gain both understanding of what they are and confidence in what they can be. Errol, who they meet on Portaldor, has an affinity with all manner of creatures and is a staunch and loyal friend whilst Charlie, who they also meet on the island, is brooding and full of anger for reasons which emerge later in the story.

Sam Stewart also draws on myths and legends with appearances from St George and Patrick, and creatures like griffins and wyrms. Welsh is also used in the book, this ancient language adding to the feeling of magic and mystery. ‘Fireblood’ is a most excellent adventure- can’t wait to find out what happens next!

Fireblood: The First Flight Sam Stewart

Firefly Press ISBN: 978-1915444196

Nell and the Cave Bear: The Journey Home

Nell and her friend, Cave Bear, have decided stay with the pet-loving Sea Clan whilst the Cave Clan return home. However, Kevun and the Woodland Clan are out for revenge and plan to capture Cave Bear. With the help of her new friends Nell is determined to protect Cave Bear from their enemies at any cost- but can she unite the clans once more?

I loved ‘Nell and the Cave Bear’ and, having used it with children, know that children love it too. The combination of appealing illustrations and engaging characters makes it a wonderful read and Cave Bear is everyone’s favourite! This new adventure is just as lovely as the first.

As Nell tries to find where she belongs, her devotion to Cave Bear is unwavering and she will face any danger to save him. Determined to get revenge for being outsmarted- and left with a splintery bottom- Kevun sets the Woodland Clan on a mission to capture Cave Bear. However, their mission does not go according to plan and ultimately, the clans remember how they used to be as one before differences divided them. New friendships develop and old grudges are overcome as the clans come to a new understanding.

The story highlights the importance of showing respect for and caring for nature. Even Mayv softens and agrees that animals are welcome in the clan. Saira’s quiet wisdom, love of animals and compassion shines through as she offers Nell sound advice and stays true to her beliefs.

The book is full of fabulous illustrations- all in shades of green- which add to the gentle humour of the tale. Many of the pictures are perfect for starting discussions and developing role playing and story telling. The final picture of Nell, Cave Bear and a new acquaintance makes a brilliant starting point for a new story..!

I can’t wait to see what adventure awaits Nell and Cave Bear next! These stories are perfect for newly independent readers, for enjoying as a brilliant bedtime story or as a class (or guided!) read! An absolute must have for all class and home bookshelves.

Nell and the Cave Bear: The Journey Home

Martin Brown

Piccadilly Press ISBN: 978-1800781931

You can read my review of ‘Nell and the Cave Bear’ here.