The Odyssey of Phoebe Quilliam

Phoebe has inherited her love of art and stories from her grandmother, Cass, spending much time with her in the sunny studio where they paint and share Greek myths. But Cass is struggling to remember things and has to go into a home. When Cass’s home is sold, Phoebe pays it one last visit and is swept into a strange adventure. Finding herself on a beach in Greece, she meets Leander, a boy who is on a quest to find out what happened to his father, one of King Odysseus’s shipbuilders, after the Trojan Wars. She also meets Hattie, her grandmother’s childhood friend, who sets Phoebe on a quest of her own- to defeat a monster and find her own way home.

This was a one-sitting read! Engaging from the first page, ‘The Odyssey of Phoebe Quilliam’ combines a thrilling adventure story with the poignant worries of a child coping with dementia in a loved one.

Like many children, Phoebe takes on worries which should not be hers, in this case, believing that she is responsible for her grandmother’s decline, that she should have told her mother that Cass was forgetting things. The close bond she and Cass share is beautifully captured, making both her grandmother’s decline and Phoebe’s feelings of guilt and loss all the more touching. The family are also dealing the the loss of Phoebe’s father who died whilst on a rescue for the RNLI and the fact that Cass has no memory of this, believing her son to still be alive, only adds to the family’s pain. This all makes the story sound very bleak- but it isn’t. Phoebe’s personal circumstances frame her adventure which is full of hope and healing… and action and adventure.

And there is plenty of action and adventure! Against a background of Greek myth, Phoebe and Leander embark on their quests, finding support and comfort in one another as they face dangers and dilemmas, overcoming their own fears and finding their way home once more. There are plenty of monsters, an epic sea voyage, excitement and peril in this imaginative and engrossing book!

The perfect candidate for story time selection, this book would make an excellent class read, engaging children with Greek myths and offering plenty to discuss and enjoy.

The Odyssey of Phoebe Quilliam

Annelise Gray

Zephyr ISBN: 978-1035911011

Published 11th September 2025

You can read my review of ‘Rider of the Storm’ here.

Netta Becker and the Timeline Crime

A family trip to Crete, organised by her history-obsessed younger brother, is not Netta’s idea of the perfect summer holiday, especially as it means she is missing a swimming gala. However, soon after her arrival, she finds herself caught in very realistic dreams which drag her back into the past - to the time of King Minos and the creation of the labyrinth. As she finds herself more and more absorbed by the past, Netta and her brother, Remy, must work out what keeps drawing her into the past before she finds she can’t return to the present.

Perfect summer reading, ‘Netta Becker and the Timeline Crime’ is a thoroughly enjoyable and absorbing read. Although it draws on Greek mythology, readers do not need to be familiar with these stories to appreciate this book- but are sure to want to explore them once they have!

Pulled into the past, Netta finds she can be seen by ‘Ari’, a princess who believes Netta to be a ‘tricksy muse’. As the two develop a friendship, Netta realises, with the help of Remy, that Ari is Ariadne, daughter of King Minos. Although the paths of other characters that she meets- Dae (Daedalus), Russ (Icarus), Minos- are clear through the stories which have been passed down, it is less clear what happened to Ariadne, raising the question of how often the stories of women and children are glossed over. ‘Being unseen by history doesn’t mean life wasn’t worth living’ is very much at the heart of this story, one of the many reasons this would make an excellent class story, offering plenty to discuss and encourage questioning.

The story is rich in historical details, weaving the Knossos of myth with the ruins of today, offering a the perfect background to this time travel with a difference. There is so much to enjoy in this book!

Netta Becker and the Timeline Crime

Jennifer Claessen

Uclan Publishing ISBN: 978-1916747593

Runaways

Jamie and July are both 11 and both live in London, but their lives are very different. Both are desperate to get away from home- Jamie to escape something he has done and July to find help for her mother. Each is wary and suspicious of others, but somehow the two form a partnership as they head to the coast. But escaping real life is impossible…

‘Runaways’ is one of the best books I have read recently. Tackling an incredibly serious issue, E L Norry has produced a compelling and satisfying read which both allows readers to empathise with Jamie and July and offers the perfect starting point for conversations around what home means. It is beautifully and sensitively written and I’m not ashamed to say I cried in places.

Elements of both Jamie and July’s stories will ring true for many children. July’s mother has had issues and July often feels that she is taking the adult role in their relationship. When an old friend- who July thinks is a bad influence- comes back into their lives, July is desperate to protect her mother and seeks help from a past foster parent, Bee. The relationship between July and her mother- however flawed- is full of love, but captures how things sometimes for some people don’t go according to plan and can have terrible consequences for all involved. Jamie comes from a more affluent background, but is struggling with his mother’s new partner and the absence of his own father. There is plenty of money and comfort, but he feels he is not listened to, leading to an incident which leaves him to panic. He flees his home in search of his  Aunty Liz, someone he feels will listen.

Alternating chapters gives each child a voice, allowing the reader to empathise with their actions as they experience the potential pitfalls and dangers of leaving home- being exploited, robbed, finding somewhere safe… E L Norry manages to handle these threats in an age appropriate way yet leaves the reader in no doubt as to how real these dangers are. However, this story is ultimately one of hope, one with a (two!) happy ending which leaves the reader uplifted and optimistic for Jamie and July’s futures.

I really hope this book gains the recognition it deserves. Beautifully written, deeply moving, it is essential reading for everyone.

Runaways

E.L. Norry

Bloomsbury ISBN: 978-1526683335

You can read my review of ‘Fablehouse’ here

Kata and Tor

It is 1066 and King Harald Hardrada is planning to invade York with his Viking fleet. His youngest son, Tor, and his companion, Eirik, have been sent ahead to gather information, but an accident wrecks their boat. With Eirik dead, Tor is left to complete his mission alone. Whilst gathering information, Tor meets Katya, an Anglo-Saxon girl, and the two fall in love. As war approaches, each must ask themselves where their loyalties really lie.

Kevin Crossley-Holland is well known as a master story teller, whose passion for history and folklore combined with skilled use of language make any book he writes a must have as far as I am concerned. Set in 1066, readers might expect ‘Kata and Tor’ to be about the Norman Conquest, a well known date and event in English history, but instead it focuses on the events which led to the Battle of Stamford Bridge, just a few weeks before the Battle of Hastings. Perfect for anyone studying the events surrounding the conquest of England, it also offers an engaging ‘human’ story of those caught on opposing sides- a ‘Romeo and Juliet’ style relationship!

Although the son of a King and expected to partake in war, Tor questions many of his father’s decisions, not relishing the violence and chaos of conflict and conquest, not wanting to fight. Kata also feels trapped into a path which has been decided for her- marriage and a life of farming or perhaps life sequestered in a nunnery. When they meet, a different future seems possible. Kata and Tor might be fictional characters, but story is rich in historical detail and also encourages readers to consider the choices people make, or are forced to make, and how these shape lives.

The use of kennings, alliteration and evocative descriptions create a powerful background to a dramatic, immersive story which is a compelling read.

Kata and Tor

Kevin Crossley-Holland

Walker Books ISBN: 978-1406399059

Riverskin

Tess lives with her Aunt Peg in the turns under the River Tees, their home furnished with the waste discarded by the dry-folk who live out of the water. Chained in a pit is Unkle Darkwater, a malevolent and dangerous presence, a constant threat to their safety.

When Unkle breaks free and it seems Aunt Peg is lost to her, Tess is helped by Chris, a dry-folk boy she saved from drowning, in a quest to find the mysterious green lady of the foss and discover who she (Tess) really is.

Tense and twisting, ‘Riverskin’ was inspired by the legend of Peg Powler, a green-skinned witch who is said to lurk in the waters of the River Tees, snatching people and dragging them to a watery death. This re-imagining asks the ‘what ifs…’, suggesting Peg isn’t the villain she has been made out to be, offering a fresh take on traditional folklore.

Tess has a very distinctive voice, using blended words to describe her environment and her emotions. Evocative and otherworldly, this creative use of language, at times almost poetic with the use of alliteration, kennings and assonance, adds much to the story. There is no ‘playing safe’ here, challenging readers to immerse themselves in Tess’s world and follow the flow of her thoughts and experiences.

The story poses questions around preconceptions, misconceptions and uncovering the true ‘villain’, exploring a possible backstory which offers a very different perspective. The casual pollution of rivers by human thoughtlessness is also constantly in the background of the story with Tess and her ‘family’ making use of all the rubbish which has found its way into the river.

A challenging and different story, perfect for those looking for a challenge and something out of the ordinary!

Riverskin

Mike Edwards

Walker Books ISBN: 978-1529523980

A Wizard of Earthsea Graphic Novel

First published in 1968, ‘A Wizard of Earthsea’ is widely regarded as a fantasy classic. Set in Earthsea, it follows the fortunes of Ged, who was born in a village on the island of Gont. When he shows talent as a mage, he ends up at a school for wizards to learn how to develop and control his powers. Provoked by a fellow student, he summons a shadow creature during a duel, which he must then track down to rectify his mistake. This story has now been retold in graphic novel form.

I have to confess that I haven’t read ‘A Wizard of Earthsea’ for many years, but I was glad I had done so before reading the graphic version as it allowed me to fully appreciate the story. It has been skilfully and carefully adapted, nearly all the words used having been taken verbatim from the original text, and the illustrations are atmospheric and engaging.

The artwork here, unlike previous film adaptations, shows the characters as they are described in the original and colour has been used to great advantage, enhancing the sense of wonder and mystery, dark and light, as Ged follows his path of self-discovery, a quiet inward as much as an actual journey.

Whether enjoyed as a stepping stone to the original books or as a story in its own right, ‘A Wizard of Earthsea: a graphic novel’ would be an excellent addition to any bookshelf!

A Wizard of Earthsea: a graphic novel

Ursula K Le Guin, adapted and illustrated by Fred Fordham

Walker ISBN: 978-1529526264

Circle of Liars

When seven teenagers arrive for a school retreat, they find themselves at the Motel Loba, abandoned and rundown, not the top location they were expecting. But things only get worse when they find they are trapped and forced to play a game where every hour they must vote one person out, deciding who is to live and who to die. For each one of the seven has a secret about a school fire which ended in tragedy…and only one can survive.

A tense, dramatic read, ‘Circle of Liars’ is absolutely unputdownable! Reminiscent of Agatha Christie’s ‘And then there were none’, it is full of twists and turns sure to keep the reader on the edge of their seat!

Told from different viewpoints, the story unfolds, highlighting the thoughts and feelings of certain characters as the truth about everyone’s involvement in and responsibility for the fire. The story not only explores how the different players deal with their feelings of culpability, but also how far they will go to save themselves, manipulating and coercing others, so that they will survive, sure to make readers wonder how they would act in a similar situation.

It is hard to review a book like this without spoiling it for others so suffice it to say that I thoroughly enjoyed it and would readily recommend it to anyone who enjoys a pacy, compelling read with plenty of action and plenty to think about!

Circle of Liars

Kate Francis

Usborne ISBN: 978-1836042389

Alice With a Why

It’s March 1919 and Alyce -with a why- is living with Alice, her grandmother, who she feels is somewhat odd. Alice used to tell wonderful stories about rabbit holes and strange croquet games, but since Alyce’s father died in the war this no longer happens. However, when an invitation to a tea party hits her full in the face, Alyce realises there might have been some truth in these stories as she finds herself falling into Wonderland where The Sun King and the Queen of the Moon are fighting over a stolen hour. Alyce must solve Wonderland’s problems before she can find her way home.

‘Alyce With a Why’ is a brilliant story which builds on the world of Wonderland, created by Lewis Carroll. The story has delicious echoes of the humour, characters and charming wackiness of the original whilst offering new characters and a delightful quirkiness all of its own.

Alyce, heroine of this tale, has much in common with Alice, her grandmother, giving a feeling of continuity, but is no carbon copy, being open to her adventure in a different way. Constantly feeling she is following in Alice’s footsteps, she is keen to do her best and find a way to stop the war in Wonderland.

Both Alyce and her grandmother are somewhat lost in their grief after the death of Alyce’s father. Alyce’s adventure in Wonderland allows them to connect once more, keeping his memory alive by talking about him once more.

An absolute joy, this would make a brilliant class story and may lead new readers to a classic favourite!

Alice With a Why

Anna James, illustrated by Matthew Land

Harper Collins ISBN: 978-0008773823

You can read my review of ‘Chronicles of Whetherwhy: The Age of Enchantment’ here.

The Wood Where Magic Grows

Iggy is facing a lot of changes. After his mum had a ‘whirlwind romance’ with Mitchell, he is living in a new house and has a new, very lively little brother, Cal, who he is sharing a room with. Although Iggy isn’t very confident in his new role as big brother, Cal is full of enthusiasm for everything so soon the pair begin to explore both their new home and the woods surrounding it where strange things seem to happen. Wooden animals in the house seem to move and the trees and plants seem to grow at an amazing rate. They meet Mae, who has recently moved in next door and the three team up, journeying further in to the woods where they are guided and helped by the trees. However, much as they are having fun, they discover that the woods are suffering and if the trees die, the wooden animals, which their landlady, Sylvie, has carved from pieces of wood from the trees, will also perish. Can they restore nature’s balance before it’s too late?

‘The Wood Where Magic Grows’ is the first in a new series from Andy Shepherd, who gave us the wonderful ‘Boy Who Grew Dragons’ books. It is perfect for children who love nature and exploring the world around them, those who see the ‘faces’ in trees and hunt for nature’s treasures.

Iggy is such a lovely character with a strong sense of right and wrong. He is keen to do his best, taking is new role as big brother very seriously, but constantly worrying that he is not quite up to the job. Cal is impulsive and bursting with energy whilst Iggy is more reserved, drawing on a deep well of patience and kindness in his dealings with the younger child where others might have snapped! It is lovely to see such a positive portrayal of a blended family who are making a happy, new life together as they learn more about each other.

With Mae, the brothers quickly establish a firm friendship. They accept the fact that she has hearing aids, quickly adapting their speaking to make sure she can follow them and she makes no comment about the birthmark which curls across Iggy’s cheek. The story encourages empathy and understanding without making a big deal of these things.

There is real joy in this story- friendship, close family, love of nature, imagination, adventure- all captured in the lovely illustrations. It would make a brilliant class story, offering plenty to discuss and enjoy, with more stories to come.

The Wood Where Magic Grows

Andy Shepherd, illustrated by Ellie Snowdon

Piccadilly Press ISBN: 978-1800785717

The Girl Who Raced the World

When her mother dies, Maggie is left with nothing but a letter for a stranger named Jean Passepartout. Faced with life in an orphanage, she seeks him out and finds herself caught up in the adventure of a lifetime. Passepartout is valet to Mr Phileas Fogg, who has just entered into a wager to prove he can circumnavigate the world in eighty days, and as Maggie’s life is filled with the wonders of travel, she quickly realises that there is more than just the wager at stake.

‘The Girl Who Raced the World’ is, quite simply, fabulous! Based on the classic novel by Jules Verne, it is manages to capture the spirit of ‘Around the World in Eighty Days’ whilst adding plenty of originality and spark, making it an excellent read for readers (young and old!) in search of an excellent adventure.

Whilst the story differs from the original in several key ways, Phileas Fogg and Passepartout remain main characters pursued by Detective Fix, who believes Fogg robbed the Bank of England and is using the wager as a clever way to escape capture. The main difference is that this story is told from Maggie’s point of view, allowing readers to empathise with her situation and worries as she finds herself faced with life in an uncaring orphanage, having lost her mother, and then placed in a situation where she doesn’t know who she can trust. Maggie is a great character. Plucky and loyal, she values others and makes firm friendships on her journey as she strives to do the ‘right’ thing. Over the course of the story, she finds her family, her place in the world, and the reader is cheering her on every step of the way!

Action-packed and pacy, the plot romps along at a pleasing pace with plenty of tension and drama on the way. Well written and full of historical details, it would make an excellent class story, offering much to discuss along the way as well as much to enjoy. This really is one not to be missed- and I really hope there is another adventure (or two or three!) to come for Maggie and her friends!

The Girl Who Raced the World

Nat Harrison

Piccadilly Press ISBN: 978-1835871386

Nate Yu’s Blast from the Past

Nate Riley is an amateur myrmecologist and has his own ant farm, ruled by Queen Elizabeth III- or Betsy as she is affectionately known. With his mums, he has recently moved to Liverpool and unlike him, the ‘parentals’ (as he calls them) are very keen for him to take the opportunity embrace his Chinese heritage in this city’s vibrant Chinatown. Another thing he is less keen on is starting a new school. However, during a ‘bringing history to life’ talk, Nate comes across an old shell casing engraved with a Chinese dragon and, when he touches it, he meets Jirou, a ghost who needs his help. With his new friends, Missy and Ryan, Nate must help Jirou remember why he has appeared and help him find peace.

‘Nate Yu’s Blast from the Past’ is absolutely brilliant. Rich in detail, it blends cultural details, facts about ants and friendship whilst shining a light on an overlooked moment in history to create an absorbing and satisfying story.

Nate is a lovely character. Having been adopted by his two mums, he has very little knowledge of his Chinese heritage and often feels like an outsider- different from his adoptive parents and those around him, yet not feeling connected to Chinese culture. One of the reasons his wonderfully supportive parents have moved to Liverpool is to allow him to grow up in a more multi-racial environment, but he isn’t sure that he wants to involve himself with this and it is easy to empathise with his feelings. Overwhelmed by the move from a small village to a huge city, he also has to contend with trying to make new friendships and encountering people’s preconceptions about his background. As he learns more about himself, Nate shows great resilience and determination as he strives to help Jirou find peace with the past.

Through the story, readers learn about the Chinese Labour Corp and their experiences during the First World War, an area of history which is seldom, if ever, mentioned in history books. The contribution they made to the war effort has been completely overlooked, making books like this one even more important for raising awareness, starting conversations and encouraging children - and adults- to discover more. Maisie Chan has done an excellent job of sensitively conveying the appalling way members of the CLS were treated, making it appropriate to the target age of readers, the analogy of the worker ants helping to deepen understanding.

Each chapter begins with a new ant fact, one of the many ways in which detail enriches the story. Readers cannot fail to learn so much about the amazing life of an ant colony alongside information about the Beatles and details about Chinese- or Lunar- New Year. With so much to explore and enjoy, the story would make an excellent class story or text for guided reading sessions. A must have for all bookshelves!

Nate Yu’s Blast from the Past

Maisie Chan

Piccadilly ISBN: 978-1800787896

Published 12th June 2025

You can read my review of ‘Danny Chung Does NOT Do Maths’ here and ‘Keep Dancing, Lizzie Chu’ here.

An Ocean Full of Stories

The latest in this wonderful series celebrating traditional tales from around the world, ‘An Ocean Full of Stories’ offers a wealth of water related folklore. Thoughtfully retold by Angela McAllister, the fifty stories have been gathered into six sections: Fishy Tales; Crossing the Water; Pools, Lakes and Rivers; Tricks and Trials; Oceans, Gods and Water Spirits; and Beside the Sea, Beneath the Waves.

The book holds an inspiring range of tales, including familiar favourites like Dionysus and the Pirates and The Fisherman and his Wife and those which are possibly less well-known such as Tambanokano or The Octopus and the Whale. There are trickster tales, pourquoi stories, fables and creation stories- something for everyone- and all inspired by the ocean.

Like the others in this series, this book is a real gift for teachers- or anyone working with children. For an assembly or a story time, they are perfect for enriching the curriculum, perhaps linked to a ‘watery’ topic, for discussing and above all, for enjoying. But this collection is also perfect for families to share and enjoy, discovering story telling traditions across the world.

Each story is expertly and carefully retold and accompanied by colourful, detailed illustrations. An absolute treat for everyone!

An Ocean Full of Stories: 50 Folk Tales and Legends from Around the World

Angela McAllister, illustrated by Sally Agar

Frances Lincoln ISBN: 978-0711295896

You can read my review of ‘A World Full of Nature Stories’ here, ‘A World Full of Winter Stories’ here and ‘Once Upon a Hillside’ here.

Felix and the Future Agency

Felix has a special ability- but one which often gets him into trouble and makes others think he’s weird. Being able to foresee the future, he tries to warn others to keep them safe, often resulting in his getting the blame for what happens. However, when offered a place at Sparkleton High School, an ‘institution whose sole purpose is to educate challenging pupils’, Felix is amazed to find that this is actually a cover story for the Future Agency, a secret organisation full of people like him. Soon, he is learning how to control and develop his abilities and making friends until a dark spectre appears threatening everything Felix has just discovered…

Fast paced and full of energy, ‘Felix and the Future Agency’ is a cracking read, full of humour and heart.

Felix is a brilliant character, who tries hard to do the ‘right’ thing, but is often consumed by feelings of frustration and anger as people misunderstand or judge him. Isolated by his power, it is a real pleasure to see him make friends as he ‘finds his people’ and develops his skills. Readers are sure to empathise with his emotions as he struggles to deal with ‘normal’ school and share his excitement as he explores his new life. In his new friendships, he shows himself to be loyal and courageous, quick to defend and support others.

One thing which I really love about this story is how it draws on elements from this world! In the afterword, the author explains that Felix’s world was inspired by a real-life organisation called the Premonitions Bureau, created in the late 1960s and offers a little background on this. From this spark, she has created an absorbing world, full of detail, weaving elements from history into its fabric like Mother Redcap, William Terriss and Shakespeare! For the historically curious, it is a real joy be able to investigate further and discover more about these figures. Felix’s world is skilfully developed with many little details which add so much colour and interest to what is a brilliant adventure.

Plenty of tension and red herrings keep readers guessing about the identity of the villain of the piece right to the end and the story is left wide open for a sequel (or series?) continuing Felix’s adventures which I, for one, can’t wait to get my hands on!

Felix and the Future Agency

Rachel Morrisroe

Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1398539280

You can read my review of ‘How to Grow a Dragon’ here.

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

I Dare You

Best friends, Willow and Alma, are best friends who crave the attention which filming dares brings them. They might get into a little trouble, but it’s completely worth it as the likes keep clocking up. However, when they come up with the perfect prank which they are sure will go viral, things go horribly wrong.

‘I Dare You’ is a really powerful story, exploring the lure of fame and the negative power of social media.

Although from very different backgrounds, Willow and Alma formed a firm friendship the day they met. Willow never means to get into trouble, but always seems to find herself there and although slightly more cautious, Alma is determined not to let her friend down. They egg each other on to plan and film more and more risky, dangerous stunts until they finally hit on one which goes horrendously wrong, threatening to destroy more than just their friendship.

Both girls are thoroughly likeable and alternating chapters allow the reader to see events from each viewpoint. Some readers may relate to their overwhelming desire for likes and followers and yet as they steadily up the ante, feel a sense of impending doom at the risks they are taking. Without wishing to spoil the story for anyone who hasn’t read it yet, Tamsin Winter offers a far happier final outcome to the girls’ prank than the one which might have happened, allowing the story an optimistic conclusion whilst still being thought-provoking and cautionary.

The girls’ obsession with on-line popularity and their poor decision making make this an excellent book to provoke discussions. The girls are extremely relatable and sympathetic, neither are perfect, making this a poignant and important read.

I Dare You

Tamsin Winter

Usborne ISBN: 1805075721

Shrapnel Boys

Two days before Britain’s Declaration of War, Ronnie, his younger brother, Micky, and best friend, Lugs, watch many children from their school set off as they are evacuated to the countryside. Ronnie’s mum cannot bear to be parted from her boys and Ronnie considers himself the man of the house since she kicked their father out. When war is declared, his mum decides to have an Andersen shelter built in the garden and a neighbour recommends a certain Johnny Simmons to do the job. Although Ronnie takes an instant dislike to him, everyone else succumbs to Johnny’s charm and when Ronnie turns down the chance to earn some money doing odd jobs, Micky is quick to agree. This leads to a divide forming between the brothers as Micky becomes increasingly secretive and Ronnie increasingly concerned about what his little brother has become mixed up in.

‘Shrapnel Boys’ is a huge change of pace from the humorous, heart-warming stories readers have become used to from Jenny Pearson; however, it simply shows that she is a superb storyteller, able to turn her hand to hard-hitting adventures with as much skill as anything else.

Full of historical detail, it is obvious that a great deal of research underpins this adventure story, making it a gripping, exciting read, but one which also offers readers information about the war and the lives of families affected by it. It would make an excellent key text to support a history topic through study and discussion, or as a class read to enjoy alongside work.

Ronnie is a real cheeky chappie, often in trouble at school, but with a heart of gold. His loyalty to family and friends is endearing and he strives to keep them safe against all odds. The contrast between his rough and ready personality and the charming, manipulative Johnny, who is so quick to use others to further his own ends, works really well and may well offer a starting point for some much-needed conversations about coercive control and how people may not always be as they seem.

At times, the story is not an easy read- I found it quite uncomfortable in places- but it is challenging, thought-provoking and powerful. One not to be missed.

Shrapnel Boys

Jenny Pearson

Usborne    ISBN: 978-1805312963

Best of All Worlds

When Xavier wakes up on the first morning of a family weekend with his pregnant step-mum, Nia, and dad, Caleb, which he doesn’t want to be on, he doesn't recognise where they are. Everything inside seems the same- but it’s as if the house has been transported to a different location. Having thoroughly explored their new surroundings, the family discover that they are trapped in what appears to be an invisible, self-healing dome from which they cannot escape and have mysterious markings on their lower backs. When the birth of Nia’s baby proves complicated, it becomes apparent that they are being monitored by a benevolent, unseen power which intervenes when they need help.

Three years later, although he still desperately misses his real mother and older brother, Sam, who were left behind, Xavier and his family, including his little brother, Noah, have adapted to life on the farm which they have been given, adopting a self sufficient lifestyle and living off the land. Suddenly, another farm and then a new family- the Jacksons- appear in the dome. A family with very different views, a family with weapons…and a teenage daughter. Tension mounts on many levels as these differences drive a wedge between the two families as the actions of one seems to bring consequences for the other, creating an impossible situation.

‘Best of All Worlds’ is an utterly absorbing read which is both thought-provoking and enjoyable. On one level, it is an intriguing dystopian novel, with people trapped, controlled and isolated, forced to live their lives according to the ‘rules’ imposed upon them. However, it is also a provocative, challenging read, designed to spark discussion- argument even!

Once Xavier’s family- the Oaks- have explored all possibilities for escape, they have become resigned to their fate and adapted to their new lives, believing they have been victims of an alien abduction. For Xavier- Zay- things are different. Thirteen when first trapped, sixteen when the Jacksons arrive, there are things which he struggles with- missing his mother and brother, his friends, gaming, no sex; however, he too has fallen into the new daily rhythm of life. The appearance of a teenage girl, albeit one with a boyfriend, is unsettling enough, but he is also presented with the government conspiracy theories of Riley Jackson, father of the new family, and someone who is determined to escape. Zay finds himself caught between the two families.

There are other differences. The Oaks are pacifists, environmentally aware whilst the Jacksons are weapon-owning, deeply religious and hold some extreme racial views. This gulf between them highlights many political and social divides, encouraging exploration of human nature and disparate viewpoints. There is so much to explore here, not least the hints at the reasons behind the abduction, making this an excellent read for a book group.

Well written and engaging, ‘Best of All Worlds’ is a real page turner which leaves the reader with much to mull over, long after they close the book.

Best of All Worlds

Kenneth Oppel

Guppy Books ISBN: 978-1916558458

Finders of Silverthorn Forest: The Lost Treasures

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

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

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

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

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

Finders of Silverthorn Forest: The Lost Treasures

Rachel Chivers Khoo, illustrated by Laura Catalan

Walker ISBN: 978-1529523805

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

Blog Tour: Soni and the Life Drinkers

I am delighted to be taking part in the Book Tour for ‘Soni and the Life Drinkers’- which is published TODAY!

Soni is determined that she and her dance team will win first place at Vunja Mifupa, an annual dance contest. But the sudden arrival of Thandiwe, a shiqq-human hybrid claiming to be her cousin, and the rapidly declining health of the Intasimi Warriors’ mentor, Mr. Lemayian, give her plenty else to focus on. Thandiwe claims she is there to help them find the Life Drinker who is draining Mr Lemayian, but can the Intasimi Warriors really trust her…

‘Soni and the Life Drinkers’ is the third adventure for Soni and her friends. Set in Nairobi, it is a fast-paced, action-packed read- one not to be missed!

Soni is a wonderful character. Determined and loyal, she puts great pressure on herself, feeling everyone expects her to be perfect and trying her best to live up to this. Through the course of this story, she learns much about herself and her family, coming to realise that things are not always right or wrong and that a more balanced approach is sometimes needed. Her developing relationship with Thandiwe, who turns out to be her cousin, makes her pause to reflect on how she has made impulsive snap decisions about people because of their parents.

Each of the Intasimi Warriors has a special gift- a superpower- to help them combat evil and the book has many fantasy elements. However, the author skilfully weaves elements of Kenyan culture and folklore into the story, creating a rich background. When searching for the aunt Soni never knew existed, the Warriors visit Mukuru, a giant settlement, completely at odds with the area they live in. The interest of readers (like myself!) unfamiliar with Kenya is sure to be piqued, leading them to discover more about the country, its geography and customs.

I now need to read the first two books in this series - and look forward to the next one!

The Intasimi Warriors: Soni and the Life Drinkers

Shiko Nguru, illustrated by Melissa McIndoe

Lantana ISBN: 978-1836290285

Thank you to Katrina for inviting me to take part in this tour. Make sure you check the other stops to find out what everyone else is saying about this book!

Gloam

Since the death of their mother, Gwen and her younger brother and twin sisters have been left with their step-father, Henry. Instead of thinking about how things have changed, she focuses on looking after her family until they move to The House, the former home of their late grandmother. When Henry announces that he has a job interview, he asks local baby sitter, Esme, to watch the children, much to Gwen’s annoyance. Although everyone else seems to like her, Gwen finds the babysitter slightly sinister and takes an immediate dislike to her.

As creepy things start to happen, Gwen quickly realises that she will have to take action. As Esme’s power grows, Gwen is forced to face her nightmares to save her family.

I made the great mistake of reading this at night, in a strange room whilst away from home! The spooky setting, evil villain and the building sense of malevolence all combine to make this a chilling and compelling read for those who like a good scare!

Having shouldered much of the responsibility for looking after her younger siblings, Gwen is outraged when Henry suggests that he will be finding help to look after them. Capable and responsible, she is the only one who doesn’t initially take to Esme Laverne, the pretty, practically perfect help babysitter, who appears in their home. With her concerns dismissed by everyone else, Gwen is determined to unmask the evil of this woman who has wheedled her way into their home and the affections of her family, finding the inner strength and resourcefulness needed to show everyone she (Esme) is really a monster.

Devious and calculating, Esme makes a chilling opponent! Proving that beauty on the outside does not equate to beauty on the inside, her actions are calculated to divide and conquer the family, seeking to isolate and punish any defiance. Just the sort of villain readers will love to hate!

Perfect for children who love a scary read!

Gloam

Jack Mackay

Rock the Boat ISBN: 978-0861549528

Published 14th August 2025