Reviews
There are so many incredible books available at the moment that it is impossible to read them all, no matter how hard I try! Here are my thoughts about some of the books I have read and how I think they could be used in school as well as Q and A sessions with authors and illustrators.
Peregrine Quinn and the Cosmic Realm
Peregrine Quinn has always loved hearing her godfather, Daedalus’s stories about being an immortal, but when they visit the Bodleian Library and the portals that connect the Terran Realm with the Cosmic Realm mysteriously shut down and he is kidnapped, she finds herself thrust into a desperate race to rescue him before an ancient evil is unleashed on the world. With help from dryad librarian, Rowan Strong, and Olympus Inc. liaison Callimachus Thorn, a faun, the fate of the world is in Peregrine’s hands.
What a story! ‘Peregrine Quinn and the Cosmic Realm’ is packed with magic and myth, action and adventure, making it an unputdownable read from the very first page.
Rich in references to Greek mythology, the plot romps along at a pleasing pace with many surprising twists and turns- and plenty of humour. The story moves from Oxford to the rivers of London and into the Under-Underground, transportation for Immortals to sites of significant Cosmic interest, and the dangers of the Under Realm, with each location being vividly brought to life.
Peregrine makes an amazing heroine as she faces challenges with determination, courage and ingenuity. Impulsive at times, her relationship with Rowan Strong, who likes to play by the rules and as a career Librarian finds a ‘lack of adequate information…particularly stress-inducing’, is wonderfully captured as the two come to appreciate and rely on one another.
‘Peregrine Quinn and the Cosmic Realm’ would make an excellent class read, offering plenty to discuss and enjoy- and more to look forward to in future books in the series.
Peregrine Quinn and the Cosmic Realm
Ash Bond
Piccadilly ISBN: 978-1800786806
Tide Magic: The Many Faces of Ista Flit
Amongst the cobbled streets and misty alleyways of Shelwich, magic rises and falls with the Tide. When the Tide is out, the magic ebbs to a low murmur. When the Tide is in, the magic is high - and Tide-blessings are at their strongest.
For most people, the Tide-blessing they are born with is nothing more than a simple party trick: eyes that change colour, or the ability to recite a poem backwards. Some, though, are blessed with more powerful gifts. Telepathy. Flight. Or, in the case of Ista Flit, being able to transform to look like someone else. Anyone else...
Ista has come to Shelwich in search of her missing father, and she'll do anything to find him - even work for Shelwich's most notorious thief. Then she meets Nat and Ruby, both struggling with their own search: Nat for his little brother, Ravi, and Ruby for her sister Saf. As more strange disappearances send shockwaves through the town, they must form a tentative friendship and draw on all the Tidemagic they can to unravel a mystery that leads to an old, abandoned theatre, and to the ancient caves beneath Shelwich. But what they find there will be far more than they have bargained for... (synopsis taken from publishers)
Oh my word! What an incredible story! I was lucky enough to find a copy of ‘Tide Magic’ in the goodie bag I received at the FCBG Conference last weekend and finding myself awake bright ad early on the Saturday morning, thought I would give it a go- and I could not put it down.
From the outset, the book is rich in imagination and brilliantly constructed world building. Added to this is evocative, descriptive writing which is a pleasure to read- and a delight to read aloud, making this a brilliant choice as a class story- or guided reading text- offering so much to discuss and enjoy.
Bold and loyal, Ista is a brilliant character and the reader is quickly invested in her story, intrigued by her Tide-blessing and the deal she has entered into with the mysterious Alexo Rokis. Although she tries to convince herself (and everyone else) that she is ‘dangerous’, Ista is actually kind-hearted and caring, leading her to find the friendship with Nat and Ruby which she didn’t think she needed. The ending of the story makes it clear that there are more adventures to come for this plucky and endearing heroine- and I can’t wait for what comes next!
Tantalising mysteries are entwined through the story as Ista’s search for her father leads her, Nat and Ruby into a dark and devious plot, liberally strewn with red herrings to keep the reader guessing and second guessing who is behind the appearance of the ominous grilks, hideous monsters, and the disappearances happening across the town, right to the very end of the book!
I cannot recommend this one highly enough! I was hooked from the first line.
Tide Magic: The Many Faces of Ista Flit
Clare Harlow, illustrated by Karl James Mountford
Puffin ISBN: 978-0241636053
Published 2nd May 2024
Beastlands: Race to Frostfall Mountain
Kayla is a cadet Sky Rider, training at the Sky Academy in Sophiatown. Her only friend is her pangron, Faro, and when he is stolen from her, she will stop at nothing to get him back.
Alethea is a healer living in the Blue District, the poorest in Ataria. She is trying to continue her father’s work, helping others, particularly against the Scourge, a deadly disease killing many in the city and beyond. When her grandmother shows signs of the disease, Alethea knows she must leave the city to seek a cure.
Rustus also lives in Ataria- but in the Red District. Desperate to gain positive attention from his disdainful father, he is determined to come first in the Scorching Ceremony, a test by which the Unscorched become the Scorched- esteemed warriors of the Atarian army. But when he fails this initiation, he is banished to the Beastlands.
And here their worlds collide-and they find themselves an unlikely team, united in a quest to save Faro and find a cure for the Scourge…
Hearing Jess French speak at the FCBG Conference this weekend reminded me of just how much I enjoyed this book- and that I hadn’t reviewed it! Jess’s passion for nature and living things shines through the world she has created which in many ways reflects our own.
The care and attention to detail used in building the world of Ramoa, where the story is set, is phenomenal! Readers share in Rustus’s wonder as he sees the plants and creatures outside the city walls for the first time, realising that he has been misled by those within. Alethea’s passion for plants, her curiosity about them and respect for what they can do is infectious. Atmospheric and evocative, Jess’s writing is a joy to read- and read aloud!
Time is devoted at the beginning of the book to the development of each character, making the reader feel invested in each and ready to join them on their quest. Rustus, Alethea and Kayla are very different personalities from very different backgrounds yet they complement each other brilliantly. Kayla is the most resistant to relying on and working with others as her experiences have taught her to be wary, but she learns to trust, finding that true friends are worth having and can be depended upon. Rustus is a great example of how people are not always what they seem -or are expected to be- finding his place in the world- a place not defined by his father.
The plot romps along at a pleasing pace and would make an excellent class story or guided reading text. As well as an exciting and engaging tale, there is so much to discuss, explore and enjoy here such as showing respect and understanding for the plants and creatures of the world, working in harmony with the world rather than exploiting its bounty, empathising with and getting to know others rather than labelling and judging. Fortunately, the ending sets the scene for more books to come as I was very reluctant to leave this world as the story came to an end. Loved it!
Beastlands: Race to Frostfall Mountain
Jess French
Piccadilly ISBN: 978-1800784062
Blog Tour: The Doll Twin
Since the death of her parents, Una has been living in a children’s home. Missing her lighthouse home and the moods of the sea, she find life here hard, her ways infuriating Matron who calls her ‘Una the Unwanted’ and ‘Una the Unstable’. When the Smiths arrive and decide that they want to adopt her, Una is thrilled both by being wanted and by returning to live by the sea. But her new home, Copperlins, although impressive, is strange and leaves her feeling unsettled. The villagers of Knifely Stifling are wary of the house- and its inhabitants- but Una strikes up a friendship with Mary, a village girl, giving her a feeling of belonging. However, she cannot pretend that the strange occurences and noises in Copperlins are not happening and one night, she comes face to face with life-sized doll which looks just like her…
Sounds intriguing? It most certainly is! ‘The Doll Twin’ is a deliciously spooky read which keeps the reader guessing with the plot making twist after turn as poor Una finds herself facing peril, unsure of who she can trust and how she will survive.
I love the character of Una. Desperate to be a ‘good’ daughter, she struggles to mould herself to be the daughter she thinks the Smiths want whilst trying to hold on to being herself and doing what she thinks is right. Her curiosity, courage and loyalty are all severely tested yet she faces and overcomes many challenges, including being confronted by a life-sized copy of herself who she comes to know as ‘Ani’, an Animated Curiosity. I don’t want to spoil the story so I will say no more about this…
The story is wonderfully atmospheric, with locations and buildings taking on a life of their own, adding much to moments of tension or great emotion. The sea ebbs and flows through Una’s life, offering peril, sanctuary and home. ‘The Doll Twin’ is an excellent read- one not to miss!
The Doll Twin Janine Beacham
Firefly ISBN: 978-1915444479
Many thanks to Janine and the lovely people at Firefly for asking me to take part in this Blog Tour! Make sure you look at the other stops and find out what everyone else thinks about this brilliant story.
Aliya to the Infinite City
Since the death of her parents, Aliya has lived in Cairo with her grandfather, Geddo. Recently, he has been acting strangely, disappearing for hours on end and forgetting her birthday. When a mysterious gift arrives, things change dramatically. Geddo is taken away and Aliya finds herself whisked off on a flying carpet by a relative she never knew she had. Finding herself in the Infinite City, she is enrolled as a student at the Infinitum School of Time Travel. But she finds herself a target for the evil forces her grandfather had tried so hard to hide her from- Dorian Darke, a master of time who wants to use Aliya’s special skills for his own devious ends.
Offering an absorbing read, ‘Aliya to the Infinite City’ is a fabulous adventure, full of magic and mystery. Set in an alternate Egypt, Laila Rifaat’s world building is vivid and colourful, seamlessly interweaving cultural details into the story. Mischievous magic carpets, sinister genies and knowledge turbans all feature in this exciting tale!
Discovering that she comes from a long line of time travellers, Aliya has to navigate an unfamiliar world full of mystery and magic. A likeable character, she shows great determination and courage as she tries to uncover details of her family’s past and find her own place in the world. The plot is full of action with many twists and turns keeping the reader well and truly enthralled as the story builds towards its exciting climax, paving the way for more adventures to come. I am very much looking forward to the next book in the series!
Aliya to the Infinite City
Laila Rifaat
Chicken House ISBN: 978-1915026354
Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.
When the Wild Calls
Juniper and Bear are now living in Ennerdale with their father, his new partner, Willow, and their baby, Fern. The life they escaped in the city should be in the past, but neither can rest easy knowing they left their grandmother, Annie-Rose, and friend, Ettienne, behind. When they learn that disease is spreading through the city, Juniper is determined to rescue them and bring them to safety.
Inside the city, there are signs that the tight control held by ruthless leader, President Steel, is weakening. But signs of rebellion by a group called the Polecats have made the authorities more aggressive. Etienne, determined to fight for freedom, soon finds himself in grave danger and in need of rescue from more than the city itself.
I am sometimes reluctant to read sequels, even though desperate to return to the world of a story which I have really enjoyed, just in case they do not live up to the original. However, I needn’t have worried in this case! ‘When the Wild Calls’ offers exactly the same absorbing, heartfelt, powerful read as ‘Where the World Turns Wild’ and it was a joy to revisit them and discover what happened next.
Both Etienne and Juniper’s voices tell this story in alternating chapters, allowing the reader to see events unfolding both inside the city and in the wild. Each has a clear and different voice, full of concerns about those they love, as they recount the events of their lives, one making their way back to the city, one desperate to leave it. Each shows huge strength of character and courage, fighting for what they believe in and remaining loyal to those they love.
The story is beautifully written, glowing with a love of nature and full of careful observations capturing the tiniest details as well as sweeping landscapes. Although Nicola Penfold makes it clear that the places she is writing about are her imagined interpretations, it is obvious these are locations she loves. I love the mention of the Wordsworths’ graves- another marker on Juniper’s journey for the reader to locate!
Like ‘Where the World Turn Wild’, ‘When the Wild Calls’ would make an excellent text for sharing in school, either as a class story, a guided reading text or to inspire work in English lessons. The quality of the writing, its vivid message about the importance of caring for nature and the appealing characters all make the book sure to capture the imagination.
A stunning read from one of my favourite authors!
When the Wild Calls
Nicola Penfold
Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1788956215
You can read my review of ‘Beyond the Frozen Horizon’ here
The Magician Next Door
Callie and her father have moved away from London, away from her friends, away from her memories. Struggling to settle into her new life in Northern Ireland, she is staring out of her window one night, unable to sleep, when a loud BOOM announces the arrival of an upside-down house in her back garden. When this disappears, Callie is convinced she has been seeing things until the arrival of a magical paper plane brings a message from Winnifred Potts, the magician linked to the house, who is in desperate need of help. She has lost her Wanderlust, the magic which charges everything in the house, protecting it from attack from magical creatures. Can Callie and her new friend, Sam, offer the help Winnifred and her house need?
‘The Magician Next Door’ is -as the title suggests- a story full of magic, imagination and adventure, but it is also about ‘home’, friendship and a sense of belonging.
Having moved for her father’s new job, Callie is overwhelmed by homesickness as well as the loss of her mother. The Rose Building where she lived in London offered not only a home, but a bustling community, with friends and neighbours where everyone knew each other and were like ‘one big extended family’. In the middle of the Mourne Mountains where she is now living, things seem the complete opposite. This sense of loss and longing is vividly conveyed and yet, Callie comes to realise that home really is where the heart is and that, although new friends and new experiences can never replace those we have lost or are missing, they certainly help you work through those emotions and offer hope for the future. Author, Rachel Chivers Khoo, has done a wonderful job of sensitively balancing Callie’s raw emotions with magic and adventure, so the story never feels swamped by these feelings.
The magical house with the turquoise roof and its special connection to Winnifred is a wonderful one and ‘Wanderlust’ is something which we all need a sprinkle of from time to time! The story also touches on the world of Irish folklore and the map at the front of the book is a copy of ‘Sam’s Seven Wonders of the Mourne Mountains’, the one which he gives to Callie, which shows the location of the Leprechaun Tunnel and Finn MacCool’s Rock amongst other things. The illustrations throughout capture the wonderfully quirky nature of the story perfectly, offering plenty of details to enjoy.
I hope there are more stories to come about Callie, Sam, Winnifred and her house as it seems to me that there are so many adventures which they could share! A great read.
The Magician Next Door
Rachel Chivers Khoo, illustrated by Alice McKinley
Walker Books ISBN: 978-1529507911
You can read my review of ‘The Wishkeeper’s Apprentice’ here.
The Secret of the Moonshard
Orphan Domino lives with the Science Barons in the Scientarium Celestis, a floating laboratory. Allergic to magic, she is forced to stay here, tormented by the other children, a complex problem for the Barons to solve. However, when a Science Baron returns and requests Domino as his assistant, she discovers that everything she has been told is a lie and escapes to Abzalaymon, a city full of wonders. Pursued by the Barons, Domino discovers magic, secrets and a sinister plot.
This is a breathtakingly good fantasy which no attempt at a summary can possibly do justice to! Domino’s world is so vividly created with such attention to detail and imagination that the reader is immediately captivated and drawn deeply into this compelling adventure.
Domino is a fabulous heroine. Feisty and impetuous, she is trapped in the Scientarium from where she can see the city beneath which she longs to visit. Constantly bullied and despised by the other children and described as ‘an intolerable nuisance’ by the Science Barons, she strikes back by devising pranks to gain revenge, allowing her to feel some small measure of control. She is just one of the many memorable characters who come to life in these pages.
Should you read this one? Absolutely!
The Secret of the Moonshard
Struan Murray, illustrated by Vivienne To
Puffin ISBN: 978-0241535585
First reviewed for Reading Zone.
The Past Master
When they are notified that there is trouble in 1999 on New Year’s Eve, Elle and the Leaplings find themselves facing the evil Millennia. They must thwart her plans to manipulate time and save the world.
In the fourth and final book of The Leap Cycle series, Patience Agbabi draws everything together to an exciting and satisfying conclusion for Elle and her friends. A diverse, interesting group, the Leapings face new dangers and old enemies as they work together in the past, present and future to defeat Millennia’s new plan.
Elle has grown wonderfully over the course of the four books. She is still curious and determined, but her confidence has grown with her ability to use The Gift and the support of the other Leaplings. As an autistic character, she is completely convincing, something has been sensitively handled throughout the series by the author.
The complexities of time travel, its consequences, its possibilities, its temptations…everything is skilfully explored, creating a pacy, exciting story which brings the series to its conclusion. Perfect for children who enjoyed science fiction, these stories also offer much to enjoy for those who enjoy an exciting adventure with strong, appealing characters.
The Past Master
Patience Agbabi
Canongate ISBN: 978-1838855819
You can read my review of ‘The Infinite’ here and ‘The Circle Breakers’ here.
Croaky: Search for the Sasquatch
Croaky Hopper is a fearless frog, desperate to follow in the hops of his TV hero, Tennessee Toad. When he joins the Woggle Scouts, he meets Sheena the mouse and Winston the puffin and is whisked off on his first adventure, Camping in Crystal Creek National Park. However, Croaky soon discovers that the real reason they are there is to search for a Sasquatch and the real adventure begins…
Full of humour and fun, ‘Croaky: Search for the Sasquatch’ is exactly the sort of book my son would have loved when he was younger! Engaging from the very first page, it offers adventure, lots of laughs and a very endearing main character, all enhanced by plentiful, lively illustrations. The text is bold and clear, standing out even against some of the stronger coloured backgrounds and presented in achievable chunks. There are also sections presented in the comic book style, making this a fabulous hybrid of graphic and early novel, sure to appeal to a wide range of readers.
Croaky is a wonderful character. Due to his longing for adventure, Croaky has struggled to make friends, but with in Woggle Scouts, he has found Sheena, a highly organised, badge-loving, clever mouse and the leader of the pack, former adventurer, Winston the puffin. He is a bit impetuous, but he is brave and kind and determined, completing the perfect adventuring team!
At the end of the book, the reader is able to ‘earn’ a pathfinder and looker badge by completing activity pages. Croaky is sure to become a huge favourite and, as this is the first of a series, have everyone looking forward to his next adventure!
Croaky: Search for the Sasquatch
Matty Long
OUP ISBN: 978-0192785183
Published 7th March
Dreamstalkers: The Night Train
Bea Grimspuddle lives in a cottage on Thunderheart Tor with her mother, Ula, and Pip, the owl which Bea has nurtured since finding her as a fledgling. Treated with suspicion by the other villagers, Bea feels more at home with nature. When their dreams disappear, the decision is made to abandon the settlement, but Ula falls ill, leaving Bea determined to remain with her.
Realising her mother has been keeping secrets from her, Bea is amazed by the sudden appearance of a mysterious steam train with a stranger at their cottage. Seizing a chance to save her mother, Bea- and her former friend, Martha Heathsweep, are catapulted into an incredible adventure.
‘The Huntress’ trilogy is one of my favourite series, evocative and beautifully written; ‘Once We Were Witches’ and its sequel, ‘Twice We Make Magic’, are wonderfully magical and imaginative so I had high hopes for ‘Dreamstalkers’- and I was not disappointed!
From the first page, Bea is a captivating character whose devotion to her mother, curiosity, determination and tenacity, make her both believable and engaging. Ostracised by her peers, she has sought comfort in the natural world, becoming distrustful of her peers and so her renewed friendship with Martha is prickly and uncomfortable at first as she learns that she can rely on others and seek their help as she overcomes jealousy, faces danger and uncovers secrets. Martha is also an appealing character whose good heart, loyalty and courage are to be admired.
The world of the Dreamstalkers is one so richly imagined and enjoyable that I closed the book with reluctance when it came to an end. There are so many things details which make it unforgettable and enjoyable - and I can’t wait for the next instalment!
Dreamstalkers: The Night Train
Sarah Driver
Farshore ISBN: 978-0008595029
You can read my review of ‘The Huntress: Sea’ here.
The Clockwork Conspiracy
Isaac Turner lives with his dad who is the Keeper of the Great Clock in the Palace of Westminster, tending the clock everyone thinks is called Big Ben, but isn’t. On the night the clocks go back, Isaac’s father disappears from the belfry, leaving only his broken pocket watch behind. Isaac is determined to find him and, with the help of Hattie, daughter of his godfather, follows a trail of clues across London, uncovering a sinister plot as they race against time.
After the fantastic ‘Adventures on Trains’ series, I expected Sam Sedgman’s new book, ‘The Clockwork Conspiracy’ to be an excellent read- and it was! Not only is this a gripping, action-packed mystery, but the whole story is scattered with interesting facts, trivia and history, making it a richly satisfying read.
Isaac and Hattie make an excellent team. Complete opposites, they bring out the best in one another and make a formidable duo, as they face every challenge and puzzle thrown at them. Hattie is quick-witted, rebellious and impetuous whilst Isaac is cautious, methodical and conscientious.
As the minutes tick by (shown by the chapter headings), Isaac and Hattie scramble across the rooftops of London, deciphering clues and solving puzzles to save Isaac’s father and defeat those plotting to change time and take over the world! Tension builds as the story reaches its very satisfying conclusion, leaving the reader wanting another mystery for Isaac and Hattie to solve which there is a sneak peak of at the end of the book.
Notes at the end of the story by Sam Sedgman clarify some elements of the story, explaining where he has ‘strayed from the truth’ and which are real, all of which adds to the enjoyment of this excellent story. We’ve booked the guided tour of Queen Elizabeth Tower to see Big Ben..!
The Clockwork Conspiracy Sam Sedgman
Bloomsbury ISBN: 978-1526665386
You can read my reviews of ‘The Arctic Railway Assassin’ here, ‘Sabotage on the Solar Express’ here and Epic Adventures: Explore the World in 12 Amazing Train Journeys’ here.
Adventuremice: Mice on the Moon
When Millie’s Uncle Bernie, inventor Professor Quartermouse, sends a message asking the Adventuremice to visit him on Scrabble Island, Pedro, Bosun and the other mice leave the Mousebase to rush to his aid. However, they arrive to find there is no emergency, just Uncle Bernie wanting to share his latest invention with them- a spaceship! Suddenly, Pedro, Millie and Fledermaus find themselves stuck in the capsule, heading into space. But will they be the first mice on the moon?
These stories just go from strength to strength! Imaginative adventures, endearing characters, plenty of humour and wonderful illustrations combine perfectly to make books full of appeal and charm.
In this story, the Adventuremice are not saving others, but saving themselves! Having been trapped in the rocket, Pedro, Millie and Fledermaus find themselves not on the moon, but on the minimoon, which circles the moon in the same way as the moon circles the Earth. Here, they meet Pontiki, another mouse who invented a spaceship, who is now stranded and surviving with the help of the starmice. These very sensible mice are welcoming, but quite different to the Adventuremice who come up with an ingenious plan which allows them to return to Earth, taking Pontiki with them.
Delightful illustrations accompany the text at every stage, really bringing the adventures of the mice to life. I love the cross section of Uncle Bernie’s rocket and, of course, the map of their journey through space. There are so many details to notice and enjoy in these pictures and as usual in this series, there is a step-by-step ‘how to draw’ at the end of the book, sure to encourage young readers to have a go - and perhaps create their own adventures.
Although I love these books as books and think there is nothing more important than a good book, I do think that they would make an excellent cartoon series and should have a wonderful range of toys to accompany it as they would inspire so much play, full of fun, imagination and learning. Let’s hope..!
Adventure Mice: Mice on the Moon
Philip Reeve and Sarah McIntyre
David Fickling Books ISBN: 978-1788452700
Published on the 7th March
You can read my review of Otter Chaos! here and Mice on the Ice here
The Story Shop: Detective Dash
In Puddletown High Street, there is the most unusual shop- The Story Shop- which sells stories you can actually BE in. When shopkeeper, Wilbur and his assistant, Fred Ferret find a sleepy sloth in the shop, they decide the best kind of adventure for her is a mystery where she can play detective. With Fred to guide her, Suzy Sloth sets off to solve a puzzling mystery in a museum, locate a missing chef by the seaside and uncover the truth about the Demon Duck of Doom in Watery Bottom.
This is the fourth adventure in ‘The Story Shop’ series from Tracey Corderoy and Tony Neal, although each book can easily be read as a stand alone. Each of the books contains three adventures, presented in chapters which are achievable and offer a sense of satisfaction and encouragement for newly independent readers whilst the enjoyable plots are sure to keep the attention of older siblings should these stories be shared at home.
Humour in both illustrations and text make these stories very appealing. Fred Ferret has his work cut out trying to keep Suzie Sloth awake during their investigations, but together they manage to solve each case and escape back to the Story Shop where he can have a well deserved nap! Children will enjoy spotting the clues and trying to solve the mysteries alongside detectives, Suzy and Fred!
Tracey’s lively writing uses a rich vocabulary and the text is a pleasure to read aloud, offering plenty to discuss and enjoy. This series would make excellent class stories for children in KS1 as well as a very enjoyable bedtime book. Great fun!
The Story Shop Detective Dash!
Tracey Corderoy, illustrated by Tony Neal
Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1788953337
Fright Bite
Club Loser are heading to Neon Perch, the place to go, for a night of celebrating Colette’s 13th birthday. With Songbird Karaoke, Galactic Golf, Battle Karts and a kitty of cash to spend, they are set to have the best night ever! However, as usual, nothing goes to plan and when the friends decide to experience Project Z, the brand-new, immersive, zombie escape room experience in the basement, they quickly realise that their old adversaries are back with more unpleasant surprises and horrors, including some vicious creatures with a poisonous bite…tick, tock.
A new book from Jennifer Killick is always a celebration- a new ‘Dread Wood’ book doubly so! Each book seems better than the last and although I might have been heard to say that ‘Deadly Deep’ was my favourite, I can now reveal that ‘Fright Bite’ has knocked it off the top spot!
One of the joys of these books is that you really feel part of ‘Club Loser’ and so are fully invested in the adventure before it starts. This unlikely group of friends prove that opposites attract and show the importance of getting to know others. Each of the gang is unique, each is flawed, but they really bring out the best in each other!
The story starts calmly enough. There is plenty of banter and if you haven’t read the previous books (why haven’t you read the previous books?), you quickly build a picture of each personality, including the very loveable Mr C, and the dynamic of the group. Having initially lulled you into a (very false) sense of security, Jennifer Killick quickly starts to build tension until the inevitable realisation dawns and the Latchitts are back!
As Club Loser face a series of terrors, culminating in venom-dripping rats controlled by Hickory Dickory Dock, the mixture of tension, humour and action keeps the reader on the edge of their seat, only breathing a sigh of relief in the last few pages when safety and sanity are once more restored. It’s a cracking read- and I can’t wait for the next one!
Dread Wood: Fright Bite
Jennifer Killick
Farshore ISBN: 978-0008657031
You can read my review of ‘Dread Wood’ here, Deadly Deep here Crater Lake here and Crater Lake Evolution here.
Twice Upon a Time
The Morrow twins, Merry and Spike, have an unusual connection with time. One born before midnight, one after, they are not only born on different days, but different years, with clocks in the house stopping to mark the time for each. When their mother, an art restorer, takes a job at Fox House, the twins are convinced they are in for a dreary holiday, but they soon find themselves caught up in mysterious happenings and unsolved mysteries which they begin to investigate using their own secret - the power to manipulate time.
I am a huge fan of Michelle Harrison’s books, particularly the ‘Pinch of Magic’ series. The brilliantly developed Widdershins sisters and cleverly drawn, well-imagined locations of these stories make them compelling reading and I was delighted to find that characters and settings are also strengths of ‘Twice Upon a Time’!
The Morrow twins might be identical, but they have very different personalities and tendencies. Merry (Meredith) is a dreamer, full of imagination and a love of words, constantly writing poems whilst Spike (Rose) has a fascination with poisons and as her nickname suggests, a somewhat prickly personality. Since having had meningitis a few years ago, Spike suffers with tinnitus, which affects her greatly, causing the reader to both develop an awareness of, and empathise with, her condition. They make a great team, using their talent occasionally for mischief, but more often to help unravel the mystery surrounding Fox House. Ben Gumbley, who lives at the house, makes an excellent addition to the group and is soon party to their secret.
The plot is perfectly paced, with clues and misdirection along the way, as it builds to a very satisfying conclusion. I have no wish to spoil the story for anyone else so won’t say any more about it, except that it is an excellent read. My only concern is whether there will be any more stories about the Merrow girls- and possibly Ben! It feels to me as if there should me more adventures for them- and yet, the book works perfectly as a stand alone. Perhaps I’m just being greedy!
Twice Upon a Time
Michelle Harrison, illustrated by Natalie Smillie
Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1471197673
You can read my review of ‘A Pinch of Magic’ here, ‘A Sprinkle of Sorcery’ here, ‘A Tangle of Spells’ here and ‘A Storm of Sisters’ here.
Diamond Jack: Your Magic or Your Life
Bramble and her sister, Lena, have recently lost their parents and now live with their grandfather, helping out in his shop, ‘Mr Browning’s Emporium of Strange and Magical Things’. Left in charge, she and her best friend, Ernest, who lives next door with his mother at the dressmaker’s shop, discover a hidden box in the forbidden shed at the bottom of the garden. Inside is a red highwayman’s mask which Bram feels compelled to try on- and then can’t take off. When her Grandfather is taken, Bram discovers that the mask transforms her into the famous highwayman, Diamond Jack and she is thrust into a mission full of action, adventure- and magic!
A riotous romp of a read, ‘Diamond Jack’ has much to recommend it! The story bounces along at a pleasing pace with plenty of action and much to discuss. Bram is a great character. Thrust into a role which she did not choose, she overcomes her fears and rises to the challenges thrown at her, proving she is capable and resilient. Ernest is a joy and their friendship is really well captured and believable.
Humour is woven through the story- sure to appeal to any adults sharing the story as well as children. Mrs Kipling, for example, ‘does make exceedingly good cakes’! But the story also offers plenty do discuss. There are links to other stories like the Robin Hood legends which might be explored, research about real highwaymen and their exploits as well as considering how people ‘mask’ themselves sometimes just as Bram adopted the persona of Diamond Jack when wearing the mask. Family secrets might also be a topic of conversation, considering why certain characters chose to act as they did and the consequences of these choices.
However, above all this magical story offers an action-packed adventure- with the potential of more to come!
Diamond Jack: Your Magic or Your Life
Anna Rainbow
Chicken House ISBN: 978-1913322724
Time Travelling with a Tortoise
Al Chaudhury has successfully travelled back in time and saved his father’s life. So, everything is back to the way Al thinks it should be…only somehow it isn’t. And then an accident leaves Grandpa Byron struggling to remember things, forcing Al to travel in time once more and leaving someone trapped in the past and a pre-historic tortoise in the present. Al must somehow rescue his friend from the past and save the future for them all.
Clever and compelling, ‘Time Travelling with a Tortoise’ is a worthy sequel to ‘Time Travelling with a Hamster’! Told in a chatty, engaging style, the reader feels as if they had never left Al’s company and yet, those who have not read TTWaH will be able to enjoy this just as much as those that have.
Grandpa Byron is as charming and unique as ever and his relationship with Al wonderfully highlights the role which grandparents can play in the lives of their grandchildren. In his new ‘old’ life, Grandpa Byron seems to be the one constant for Al, making the accident all the more shocking. Unable to piece together events which have led to his friendship with Paulie MacFaddyen, nephew of his arch nemesis Macca, also causes complications- and encourages the reader to look beyond preconceptions and first appearances.
There is so much to enjoy in this wonderful story that it is hard to put down. Teachers will enjoy reading this aloud to their classes as much as the children will enjoy listening to it. It is sure to encourage much conversation- about time travel and much more! Highly recommended!
Time Travelling with a Tortoise
Ross Welford
Harper Collins ISBN: 978-0008544775
Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.
You can read my review of ‘Time Travelling with a Hamster’ here, ‘The Monkey Who Fell from the Future’ here and Into the Sideways World here.
Pirate Academy: New Kid on Deck
In 2507, a new age of piracy has arrived. Water levels have risen and the Pirate Federation controls the oceans as well as running nine schools around the world- Pirate Academies. Each Academy will only take 15 students a year, the finest from the most famous, ferocious pirate families. Jacoby Blunt and Jasmine Peacock are two of the students in Barracuda Class, taking lessons in Knots, Sailing and Combat. But these are dangerous times to be a pirate and when Jacoby’s roommate, Wing, is removed from the school by his parents, a new student, Neo Splice, mysteriously appears to take his place. With him, he seems to bring peril from the outside world and Barracuda Class find themselves facing a new and very deadly enemy.
I have huge affection for Justin Somper’s ‘Vampirates’ series as my son read these avidly and we regularly went to hear Justin speak at festivals. These books were also really popular in school and we were delighted to be able to organise an event for ‘Talk Like a Pirate Day’ in 2015 with Justin and Huw Powell. With this in mind, I was very excited to discover that Justin had written the first in a new series and I was not disappointed!
‘New Kid on the Deck’ is engaging from the outset as the reader is quickly drawn into the lives of Jacoby, Jasmine, Neo and their classmates, their lives at the Pirate Academy, the importance of their ‘pedigree’ and the dangers lurking in the outside world. The characters- students and their teachers- are well developed, full of the flaws and complexities which make them engaging and encourage the reader to feel invested in their adventures.
Without wishing to give too much away, the plot concerned with family, friendship, loyalty, lies, adventure and ambition is really well-paced and its conclusion offers surprises and great potential for the future of the series. ‘New Kid on the Deck’ is sure to be as popular as the Vampirates books and will be a welcome addition to bookshelves everywhere!
Pirate Academy: New Kid on the Deck
Justin Somper, illustrations by Teo Skaffer
UCLan ISBN: 978-1916747111
Published 7th March 2024
Adventuremice: Mice on the Ice
Pedro is happily settled into his new life with the Adventuremice, protecting the Mouse Isles from harm. Having previously lived beneath the floorboards of Hilltop House, he has never seen snow before and is very excited about learning how to skate and build snowmice- and about the Frost Fair which happens on Midwinter’s Day. But this year, there is so much ice that they have a serious problem on their paws. Some mice from the Frost Fair Organising Committee are stranded on the mainland where they have been gathering all the tasty treats for the Fair. It’s up to the Adventuremice to save the day!
There is so much to love about the Adventuremice books! Lavishly illustrated, these charming stories are perfectly pitched to engage and entertain young readers who are setting out independently as well making excellent read alouds to share again and again.
Each character is full of personality and children quickly identify their favourite - and perhaps see their own personality traits reflected in them. Pedro sometimes lacks confidence, but his big heart and enthusiasm make him an excellent member of the team. Fledermaus can be impulsive, but is brave and daring. Ivy is so creative, with her brilliant inventions helping the team with their rescues. These well developed characters are perfect for inspiring children to create their own stories about the team- and the ‘How to Draw’ guidance (it’s Ivy at the end of ‘Mice on the Ice’) is sure to inspire them to illustrate their stories as well. Drawing the characters becomes quite addictive as the careful, step-by-step instructions result in very successful pictures- and that success builds confidence!
In this adventure, there is just the right amount of peril, plenty of humour and a very happy ending, all perfect ingredients for a satisfying story. The next adventure is to be ‘Mice on the Moon’ and I am sure that there will be many readers waiting impatiently for this to appear!
Adventuremice: Mice on the Ice
Philip Reeve and Sarah McIntyre
David Fickling ISBN: 978-1788452694
You can read my review of ‘Adventuremice: Otter Chaos’ here.
