Me, in the Middle

As her class learn about family trees, Georgie is overwhelmed by feelings of uncertainty about where she belongs. However, once she starts working on the project with her parents, she soon realises that her family tree’s branches stretch far and wide and that her far-reaching roots make her proud. As the class compare their heritage, they soon realise that although all of their ‘trees’ look very different, they all have much in common.

Creating your family tree can be a very rewarding and fascinating thing to do, but it can also be an exercise fraught with difficulties and one which needs handling with the greatest sensitivity. Some children, like Georgie, might feel anxious because their family is not the same as that of their friends or classmates. This delightful, up-lifting story shows how, like real trees, families come in all shapes and sizes, but we are all rooted in the same rich earth.

I love the way the story links the idea of a family tree to the shape and size of real trees as different children compare how their families are formed with the trees in the park, acknowledging there are many ways to make a family unit and that each one is special. The story makes the point that you cannot define someone from looking at them- we are so much more than what can be seen at a first glance: wise words indeed!

‘Me, in the Middle’ would make an excellent addition to any book collection and is perfect for being at the heart of work about families. It would also be invaluable in PSHE sessions such as celebrating difference, relationships or being me in my world in both KS1 and KS2, with many ideas to explore. The addition of a blank tree with the title, ‘Make your own family tree’, might well inspire children to explore their own heritage, families and cultures. The illustrations throughout the book are delightful - a real celebration of classroom diversity and fun; however, they also are perfect for encouraging empathy as Georgie’s feelings are beautifully depicted.

Owlet Press are a fabulous independent publisher, offering titles which truly reflect and celebrate diversity and highlight more nuanced stories, making the reader pause and reflect deeply. ‘Me, in the Middle’ is another winner from their collection!

Me, in the Middle Annette Dimetriou, illustrated by Angela Mayers

Owlet Press ISBN: 978-1913339357

Out in March 2022

You can read my review of ‘Wild’ by Annette Demetriou and Dawn White in the ‘Reviews from Another Life’ section.

Rainbow Hands

As the days stretch on and on, a little boy looks forward to his favourite time- painting-my-nails-time. In his Ma’s magical bottles, there is a shade of varnish for every mood and feeling. He knows purple is the colour of mystery whilst white is the colour of infinite possibilities. At times, his Papa frowns and asks why he can’t paint on paper instead, but the little boy knows it makes his hands look beautiful.

When my son was little, he used to love to paint my nails, creating a rainbow of colour on each hand. And sometimes, he would ask for his nails to be painted too, carefully choosing which shades to use. These were moments of great joy, as he focused so hard on keep the polish on my nails, laughing and chatting as he painted.

‘Rainbow Hands’ celebrates exploring who you are and having the courage to express yourself. Although his father sometimes questions the little boy’s colourful nails, there is a great sense of love from his family. You are my colourful child who I know will shine bright… says his grandfather and there is joy as he explores all the emotions and colours of the rainbow!

The story offers the perfect opportunity for discussing how we link colours with different emotions as well as for challenging stereotypical notions about who should or should not wear nail varnish. Jo Loring-Fisher’s illustrations are simply delightful, conveying a wide range of emotions and capturing the love and joy of the family.

A delightful book, made for sharing!

Rainbow Hands Mamta Nainy, illustrated by Jo Loring-Fisher

Lantana ISBN: 978-1913747831

‘Love is…’ and ‘Sometimes I Feel…’

Stunning illustrations and beautiful text combine to make these very special books. ‘Sometimes I Feel…’ offers reflection on many different emotions whilst ‘Love is…’ celebrates love in all its forms.

With its lavish illustrations and thoughtful text, ‘Love is…’ reflects on the enduring, powerful nature of that emotion and how it affects us all. With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, this would make a beautiful gift for the special someone in your life!

However, the book also explores love between siblings and across generations. It reminds us that, although love is being together, having time alone to be and express yourself is also important.

For with love…

we can do anything.

Equally relevant to adults and children, ‘Sometimes I feel…’ explores feelings through a collection of animal similes. Each simile is followed with a further thought, deepening understanding of that emotion and offering the perfect starting point for discussions. Each spread can help children not only with understanding their own feelings, but also for developing empathy with others. For example, the simile ‘…as big as a bear’ is followed with the reflection that there will always by those bigger who will sometimes make you feel small. My favourite is that although we might feel ‘curious as a cat’, it is impossible to know everything and sometimes our minds need a rest. The illustrations are stunning - each one worthy of framing- and capture the sentiment of the text beautifully.

Children could illustrate their own similes and add their thoughts to these, creating a class book based on the original. For teachers, different spreads could be used as a basis for PSHE sessions, developing discussions and encouraging children to consider different viewpoints.

These are books to treasure!

Love is… A Celebration of Love in All its Forms Sarah Maycock

Big Picture Press ISBN: 978-1787418745

Sometimes I Feel… A Menagerie of Feelings Big and Small Sarah Maycock

Big Picture Press ISBN: 978-1800781283

I Love You, Blue

A whale called Blue rescues Jonas the lighthouse-keeper from stormy seas and the two become friends. But when Jonas sets off to find the whale on the following day, he discovers Blue ill and in great danger, needing Jonas’s help.

This charming story is perfect for introducing children to the dangers of plastic pollution and the need to care for our oceans and the creatures that live there. As Jonas explores the beauty of the ocean, the sharp-eyed reader will notice hints of the problem to come in the water beneath him as amongst the fish, carrier bags can be seen, offering the perfect starting point for discussions about how some things end up in our oceans when they really should not be there.

Jonas’s enthusiasm for the world around him and his joy at meeting Blue are infectious. His care for this massive creature is evident in his anxiety when he cannot find his friend, leaving the reader with the heartfelt plea to ‘Save our oceans. Save our whales.’ Although the story is simple and perfect for using with the youngest children, teachers of KS2 children will also be quick to see the possibilities it offers when working with older children. A message from Barroux at the end of the book says that Blue represents all whales- over 20 different species- and different children could undertake research on different species, perhaps recording their findings as non-chronological reports, perhaps preparing a persuasive speech with a view to taking action or perhaps simply sharing their research findings with their peers.

The story might also inspire children to take part in a beach clean or to organise a clean up of their own school grounds, investigating the different types of rubbish commonly found and developing suggestions for how the school community could tackle the issue.

The illustrations are just wonderful and sure to inspire children to experiment with using watercolours to create seascapes of their own or to explore techniques for creating the sky/ sea as Barroux has used here.

A complete delight, this is a book I will be using in school again and again!

I Love You, Blue Barroux

Otter-Barry Books ISBN: 978-1913074500

Epic Adventures: Explore the World in 12 Amazing Train Journeys

Train journeys are as varied as the world…

Co-author of the ‘Adventures on Trains’ series, Sam Sedgman, has written ‘Epic Adventures’ a fabulous new book which explores twelve of the world’s most exciting real-life railway trips, capturing the wonder of travel-and the story told by each rail journey.

A map of the world shows the start and end point of each rail journey as well as its location. Additional information is also included throughout the book on related topics like epic engineering and abandoned stations. There is also a spread focusing on how Britain is a nation shaped by railways, looking at the development from Stevenson’s Rocket to the present day.

Sam Sedgman has chosen twelve of the world’s most fascinating rail trips, offering a whistle-stop tour of each. Each spread is has been brilliantly illustrated by Sam Brewster, whose use of colour and detail is a real joy. So much detail is packed into each page with snippets about the history, culture and people of each place as well as statistics about each journey.

Some of these trips are ones which have featured in the ‘Adventures on Trains’ books, offering further background and detail about each train and its setting, but the book is brilliant for anyone who loves trains, travel or both, allowing the reader to follow the very route the train takes. The text is respectful to indigenous cultures and peoples and makes very clear the motivations behind the development of railways across the world during the British Empire.

I am going to buy my dad a copy of ‘Epic Adventures’ as I know he will love it and my husband has currently ‘borrowed’ my copy. I’m hoping he’s planning a trip!

Epic Adventures: Explore the World in 12 Amazing Train Journeys

Sam Sedgman, illustrated by Sam Brewster

Macmillan ISBN: 978-1529065657

Published 17th February 2022

You can read my review of ‘Sabotage on the Solar Express’ here.

Dread Wood

Detention has never been so deadly…

Forced to attend a weekend detention, Angelo, Hallie, Gustav and Naira think that things can’t get any worse. However, when their teacher is dragged underground, things start to get really scary. With danger all around, their only hope of survival is to work as a team as they try to escape.

What a read! Jennifer Killick is well known for her excellent ‘Crater Lake’ stories, but she has completely outdone herself with this one. Managing a perfect balance of humour, suspense and creepiness, ‘Dread Wood’ is gripping from page one.

Jennifer Killick excels at capturing characters- getting their ‘voice’ just right so they are believable- and developing them so that the reader cares about what happens to them. Not a natural friendship grouping, Hallie, Angelo, Naira and Gus yet find themselves bound together by circumstances, forging a deep bond. Friendship and ‘fitting in’ are at the heart of the story, challenging initial perceptions and considering the reasons behind someone’s actions as well as their consequences. Although people do the wrong thing, their actions shouldn’t define them.

These characters are launched into a series of nail-biting moments where they are fighting for their lives. In places the tension is palpable, yet the story is pitch perfect for children in Y6/Y7, never becoming too gory or disturbing, but offering a regular frisson of excitement.

Another excellent read from the ‘queen of horror’!

Dread Wood Jennifer Killick

Farshore ISBN: 978-0755503711

Published March 31st 2022

Frank and Bert

Meet Frank and Bert. These two pals LOVE to play hide-and-seek, but, although he thinks he is, Bert is not very good at hiding. This means that Frank wins every single game they play…until it occurs to him that maybe winning is not what’s important…maybe being a good friend is the most important thing of all.

Ever since discovering a copy of ‘I Want to Eat this Ant’ whilst on holiday one year, I have loved the work of Chris Naylor-Ballesteros. Many people know his fabulous book, ‘The Suitcase’, but each of his books is full of warmth, wisdom, humour - and incredible illustrations. ‘Frank and Bert’ is his latest gem!

There is so much to adore about this story. Frank the fox loves to win and when playing hide and seek with Bert, he does this a lot! Bert’s hiding skills leave a lot to be desired- even when Frank agrees to count to one hundred. But delighted as he is to win, Frank pauses to consider his friend’s feelings and put Bert’s happiness over his (Frank’s) competitive nature. The story offers the perfect starting point for discussing these feelings and encouraging empathy with others.

The pictures are full of humour! Children will giggle at Bert’s attempts at hiding and really enjoy the little twist at the end which shows that perhaps Bert is not as clueless as he first appears! His bright pink scarf suits him perfectly and it’s wonderful to see Frank knitting for his friend. Their expressions are just wonderful, adding to their personalities!

Children will love joining in with the counting and enjoy sharing this story again and again. I hope there are more stories about this adorable pair!

Frank and Bert Chris Naylor-Ballesteros

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1788008419

Sabotage on the Solar Express

Hal and his Uncle Nat are on an adventure down under as billionaire August Reza has invited them on the first trip aboard the Solar Express, winner of the Reza’s Rocket competition. Although excited about the trip, Hal is not too enthusiastic at being reunited with Marianne, August’s daughter; however, she is convinced that something is amiss and seeks Hal’s help with investigating. Shortly after departure, they discover the train has been sabotaged and is hurtling across the outback, out of control. Can Hal and his friends stop the train and expose the saboteur before it’s too late?

I love this series so much! Always full of action, each book is fast paced and absorbing from the off and Solar Express is no exception.

As with Hal’s previous adventures, the setting for his train journey is vividly brought to life. Here, the sights of the Australian outback form the backdrop to their adventure with attention and respect being given to sites sacred to the indigenous peoples. Uncle Nat might quote the guide book entry about Uluru, but Aboriginal beliefs about human relationships with the earth and the respect it should be given are simply, but clearly explained within the framework of the story. The damage being done to the land through mining is also explored and the invention of the Solar Express has come from young Boaz’s (the fourteen year old inventor of the train) desire to use greener ways of powering trains. (There’s even a ‘science bit’ at the end of the book for those who want to know more!)

It is always a joy to read a story which is not only a cracking adventure, but is also full of ‘naturally occurring educational snippets’! Sounds awful, I know, but it’s meant as a great compliment! Whilst reading this adventure, children (and adults) find out (amongst other things) that for children in the outback, remote education is completely normal; that flying doctors take medical care to those in need; that camels were used to help build the Australian railways as well as environmental and scientific facts, allowing the reader to absorb additional knowledge with no effort at all! This adds such richness and colour to a story, making it all the more worth reading.

One of the greatest strengths of this series is the relationship between Hal and his uncle. Built on mutual respect and affection, the two make perfect travelling and crime busting companions. Elisa Paganelli’s wonderful depictions of Hal’s notebook are also a brilliant way of allowing the reader to ‘see’ what Hal has noticed, leading to the solution of the mystery.

Keeping you guessing until the very end, the story is absorbing with many nail biting moments. ‘Solar Express’ would make an excellent read aloud - sure to keep a class hanging on your every word- without needing to have read the previous books. It would also make a brilliant guided reading text, offering plenty to discuss and explore along the way.

‘Sabotage on the Solar Express’ is out in February- and I am already looking forward to ‘The Arctic Railway Assassin’ which is due in October! I’d like to put in a request for an adventure through the Rocky Mountains, a rail trip I took some years ago and loved!

Sabotage on the Solar Express M G Leonard and Sam Sedgman

illustrated by Elisa Paganelli

Macmillan ISBN: 978-1529072655

Swallow’s Kiss

Whatever her mother says, Blessing knows that she can remember the day that a swallow dipped into her pram and left a magic mark on her lip. Her ears are tuned to the city’s sky-song, the music of the birds. When she finds a lost bag of paper birds in the cafe where her mama works, she is delighted. She discovers they are Wish Birds, each carrying the written wishes of others, including Hani, whose wish is exactly the same as Blessing’s- to see their father. Keen to meet the owner of the bag and the Wish Birds, Blessing discovers a community who welcome her, bringing friendship, hope and the perfect surprise.

One of the ‘10 Stories to Make a Difference’ collection, ‘Swallow’s Kiss’ is a joyful story, full of hope and love. Blessing is living a new life in an un-named city with her mother and baby brother. Sita’s rich, evocative free-verse echoes the family’s love of song and allows the reader to see this new world through Blessing’s eyes, noting the colours and details, but also offers glimpses of the life left behind and the deep longing to see her father again. The story is perfect for developing empathy and understanding, with children creating their own Wish Birds.

The story is full of Jane Ray’s beautiful artwork which captures moments from the story perfectly- the longing in Blessing’s eyes as she lies in bed, the wish birds bursting from the bag, the energy and joy of the community coming together in the final spread.

An excellent addition to any book corner or library, ‘Swallow’s Kiss’ is a special, heart-warming story.

Swallow’s Kiss Sita Brahmachari, illustrated by Jane Ray

Pop Up Projects ISBN: 978-1838323509

Big Sky Mountain

When Rosa gets off the plane at Big Sky Mountain to live with a grandmother she doesn’t know, everything looks terrifying to someone who has never left the city. With no houses or shops for about 200 miles, her Grandma Nan is going to be her only company- and she seems to have forgotten that Rosa is coming. However, Rosa is soon captivated by the beauty and the wildlife surrounding Grandma Nan’s log cabin.

‘Big Sky Mountain’ is a real celebration of fresh air, connecting with nature and the interconnectivity of life on earth. Nature is celebrated on every page and readers are introduced to a whole host of animals, who Rosa is able to talk to and make friends with.

Like Alex’s excellent ‘Hotel Flamingo’ series, this book offers a cast of fabulous characters. Albert the apple loving moose, Little Pig the pygmy owl and Mr Hibberdee the bear are just a few who add much life and laughter to the story. Children would really enjoy creating their own characters to live on Big Sky Mountain, using Alex’s for inspiration. Grandma Nan and Rosa are also well formed and appealing. Rosa gains confidence when facing a completely new life, leaving behind all she knows, and Grandma Nan’s love of the outdoors, her energy and ‘can-do’ nature are an inspiration to us all!

The story also shows the importance of working together as well as looking after our natural world. Nan introduces Rosa to a whole new world of adventure in the outdoors- camp fires, sleeping under the stars, the many beauties of nature- which is sure to inspire Big Sky readers to explore for themselves. The book also includes a ‘can you find’ section at the end, encouraging children to examine the illustrations and identify different types of flora which could lead to trying to find and identify some when on walks themselves.

The book is generously illustrated with delightful pictures, offering plenty to interest and engage younger readers without detracting from the text. Children love a map and there is one at the beginning for children to follow Rosa’s adventures on.

Rosa’s adventures continue in ‘The Forest Wolves’ (out in February) when she and Nan are building an extension to Nan's cabin for Rosa to have her own room. When a storm arrives, so do all their animal friends- including a little wolf cub which leads Nan and Rosa to another adventure in nature.

Once again, the adventure offers much to enjoy and discuss. There are a new set of hidden species to find in the pictures and information about woodlands and ‘megafauna’ to enjoy. This is a series which will captivate young readers and open their eyes to the wonders of the natural world. I look forward to sharing these and any more adventures from Rosa with as many children as possible!

Big Sky Mountain Alex Milway

Piccadilly ISBN: 978-1848129726

Big Sky Mountain: The Forest Wolves Alex Milway

Piccadilly ISBN: 978-1848129733

Corpse Talk: Ground-Breaking Explorers

The ‘Corpse Talk’ series is incredibly popular at school, with a constant stream of children waiting to borrow the next title as soon as it is returned. Accessible and entertaining, the format is perfect for introducing children to figures from history. With previous collections about royalty, authors, rebels and scientists, many of the biographies included are perfect for supporting learning across the curriculum.

‘Explorers’ is the latest book in the series, offering a fantastic range of adventurous men and women and their achievements. With explorers a popular thematic study for KS2 history, the biographies here both support and extend children’s learning in this area. Shackleton is also a popular figure with William Grill’s ‘Shackleton’s Journey’ often being used as a key text in Year 6. The ‘interview’ in this book could easily be used alongside this- or simply made available for children to read at their leisure.

Although told in graphic format, the text used is challenging, clearly alleviating any concerns which might be held about using this type of text in school. The book seeks to question and clarify possible preconceptions and misconceptions which are held about some of these figures, discussing the ‘violence, disease and exploitation’ which accompanied many of these explorers’ activities and rightly challenging commonly held ‘facts’ about Columbus and others. The final pages show the route of each explorer on a map. ‘Explorers’ would make an enjoyable guided reading text as well as a perfect addition to the library.

Corpse Talk: Ground-Breaking Explorers Adam and Lisa Murphy

David Fickling Books ISBN: 978-1788452014

Wolfbane

When I first read ‘Wolf Brother’, it had just been published and I was lucky enough to find a signed, hardback copy on a table at my local Waterstones. Instantly captivated, I knew then that I had found a treasure to share both with my own son and with the children I teach. Twenty odd years later, it is still a book I reach for when I want to inspire a class and it is still works its magic every time!

I was absolutely thrilled when I heard Michelle Paver speak at Hay a couple of years ago and she explained that she was writing another three books about Wolf, Torak and Renn. The first two of these, ‘Viper’s Daughter’ and ‘Skin Taker’ lived up to my every expectation, transporting me back to Torak’s world as if I had never left. The arrival of ‘Wolfbane’ filled me with equal measures of excitement about discovering what happens and sadness in the knowledge that this is their final story.

With this in mind, it is essential that nothing is given away here about the dramatic conclusion to this much-loved series. The writing is as effortlessly beautiful as ever, with vivid descriptions and compelling characters. Michelle immerses the reader in the period, drawing on her meticulous research and personal experiences to create the richly detailed world of the Stone Age.

Although this adventure could be enjoyed as a stand alone, it is best read as part of the series as all the threads gather together to the final conclusion. So much has happened to Torak and Wolf since their first meeting and their bond remains as strong as ever so when Wolf is swept far from the Forest he loves on breaking ice, Torak will do anything to follow his pack brother and save Wolf from the demon stalking him. Full of suspense and action, Torak and Renn must use all their knowledge and skill and draw on bonds of friendship and loyalty for the final confrontation. No lover of the ‘Chronicles of Ancient Darkness’ is going to want to miss this!

Wolfbane Michelle Paver

Zephyr ISBN: 978- 1789542448

Coming April 2022

Dragon Storm: Tomás and Ironskin

There are no longer any dragons in the land of Draconis. Once humans and dragons lived there together in friendship, creating Rivven, the great city, together. But the Dragon Storm, a great battle, changed this, forcing dragons to retreat from the human world, leaving humans believing these great creatures to be myths.

Growing up with these beliefs, young Tomás, a blacksmith’s son, is stunned when he is invited to join the Dragonseer Guild. He discovers not only that dragons exist, but that he can summon his very own, Ironskin. But adjusting to this new life is not easy, leaving Tomás with a difficult choice to make.

Having loved ‘Orion Lost’ and ‘Adam 2’, I had high expectations of ‘Dragon Storm’ - and wasn’t disappointed. Alastair Chisholm has worked magic with this title, managing to offer developed characters (human and dragon), a well imagined world and a convincing storyline in a book which is short and accessible yet doesn’t ‘dumb down’ the language used. Perfectly pitched for younger readers, this is the first in a series which is sure to be very popular.

Tomás is an appealing character who will be easy for children to relate to. Close to his parents, he is keen to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a blacksmith, yet his curiosity is piqued when he is offered the chance of a different life. That he finds himself a member of a secret society with a dragon companion is a dream which will appeal to so many young readers- and the other children and their dragons offer plenty more adventures to come.

Although obviously perfect for independent reading, ‘Tomás and Ironskin’ would also work very well as a guided reading text, readily engaging children’s interest and offering plenty to discuss and explore. Children would love to create their own dragons or create Top Trump style cards for the dragons and their dragonseers. The story’s illustrations are also sure to further engage children and encourage them to draw their own dragons.

Looking forward to reading book 2- ‘Cara and Silverthief’ - which is out now with more titles in the series coming soon!

Dragon Storm: Tomás and Ironskin

Alastair Chisholm, illustrated by Eric Deschamps

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1839940064

Cool Technology

The ‘Cool’ series is incredibly popular at school with children eagerly seeking one which they haven’t read. From Architecture to Astronomy, from Maths to Mythology, there is a book in this fact-packed, accessible series that offers the perfect introduction to the subject.

Released on the 13th January, ‘Cool Technology’ is the latest addition to the series and is every bit as absorbing as the others. Starting with a technology timeline, the book starts with the earliest technological advances of the Stone Age- tools, needles and rope- and travels all the way to the possibilities of technology of the future. The information is clearly and concisely presented in bite-sized chunks, giving enough information to both satisfy and to spark curiosity and lead to further investigation.

The book also includes mini-biographies of some significant figures who made particular contributions to technological advancements. Clearly acknowledging the moveable type invented decades previously in China and Korea, the author focuses on how Gutenberg’s press took off in Europe, enabling far more people to have access to books. Annie Easley is another example whose work and achievements are celebrated in this book.

There are also experiments and activities included which link to the information in the text. How to draw pixel art and how to have a go at potato print moveable type are just a couple of the activities suggested. There are plenty of illustrations throughout the book to add to the appeal!

There is so much in this book which supports the curriculum as well as satisfying curiosity and answering questions. Links can be made with History, Science and sustainability as well as art and computing. Perfect for school or home, ‘Cool Technology’ is another winner!

Cool Technology Jenny Jacoby, illustrated by Jem Venn

Pavilion ISBN: 978-1843655152

Pizazz vs Perfecto

Being super is not easy…

Pizazz is 9 1/2 (finally!), super (in terms of being a super hero) and she still is not at all keen on this role. She finds being super super un-super and her *eye roll* super power SUPER embarrassing. On top of this, she has to deal with super villains- like Perfecto. Being younger, she should be no match for Pizazz, but then Perfecto is…well, perfect. Perhaps Pizazz just needs to beat her at her own game and hatches the perfect Perfecto plan to be perfect in every single way…

The third book in the series, ‘Pizazz vs Perfecto’ is every bit as enjoyable as the previous books. Overflowing with Sophy Henn’s fabulous illustrations, the story is told through the perfect balance of text, comic strip sections and illustrations, making it an accessible and entertaining read.

Sophy has an amazing talent for being able to capture situations and emotions and bundling them up in appealing stories which make them excellent for initiating discussions and developing empathy. In her ‘Pom Pom’ books, for example, she explores the ‘grumps’, what happens when we don’t always win and finding our talents in a way which children (and adults!) can both relate to and sympathise with. Although ‘Pizazz vs Perfecto’ is brimming with humour and Pizazz’s eye-rolling take on life, Sophy also gently makes the point that being ‘perfect’ is like trying to achieve the impossible all the time. Not only is it exhausting, it actually makes you miss out on all the fun bits of life and causes you to feel anxious. Pizazz might not be ‘perfect’, but her good-natured, big-hearted, slightly chaotic self is loveable just the way she is. Comparing yourself to others- whether friends or siblings- is never going to make you feel good about you!

Pizazz is extremely popular with children in my class. Initially attracted by the bright covers and dynamic illustrations, they quickly become engaged with Pizazz as a character, enjoying her battles with baddies and her struggles with being a super. One child recently declared that these were ‘the best books ever’ and is already looking forward to the next one!

Although appealing to early readers, these stories should not be underestimated. In addition to encouraging empathy and exploring feelings, work based around these books could encourage children to create their own comic strips/ graphic novels and develop their own characters. The books also lend themselves to plenty of drama and writing in role- and there is plenty of fun that could be had exploring how Sophy uses grammar and punctuation (yes, I know some people will think this is a contradiction-fun/grammar- but it’s all about how you do it!).

The ‘perfecto’ story!

Pizazz vs Perfecto Sophy Henn

Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1471194177

Pizazz’s first two adventures are ‘Pizazz’ (978-1471193989) and ‘Pizazz and the New Kid’ (978-1471194153). The stories do not need to be read in order as Pizazz is very good at filling the reader in with what’s happening in her life!

Mort the Meek and the Monstrous Quest

Having decided she is a god, the Queen of Brutalia has offered a prize to anyone bold enough to take to the seas and return bearing treasure. Mort is amongst the brave adventurers who set sail, but he is motivated by the desire to find his father and the twins, Gosh and Gee, rather than bringing the Queen riches. Although his sailing partner was supposed to be Weed, best friend and fellow pacifist, Mort has ended up sharing a boat with Punky Mason, a rock-crusher’s daughter and pacifist’s nightmare. When they find evidence of the legendary sea-monster, the Belgo, peace loving Mort is convinced it is responsible for the disappearance of his family and becomes consumed by the desire for revenge. Will he be able to stick to the Pacifist Promise?

Full of quirky humour, this deliciously dark tale is brimming with word play and fun. Each chapter is introduced by lobsters, Larry and Bruce, who continue the tradition of corny jokes started by the ravens in book one. The Queen/ God Queen’s alarming fashion sense (tarantula leg eyelashes!) is only slightly outdone by her imaginative and dastardly Punishments of the Day- all of which are sure to make the reader chuckle. Anb bon’t unberestimate the denefits of deing adle to recognise ‘b’ anb ‘d’ either!

Although Mort ends up partnered with Punky, who initially seems like his worst nightmare, the two form a strong partnership and Mort realises that appearances can be deceiving. Having let his fury cloud his judgement, ultimately, Mort stays true to his beliefs and remains Mort the Meek, the gentle pacifist we came to love in the first book, rather than becoming Mort the Murderer.

The story is brilliantly illustrated by George Ermos who captures many scenes, using a mixture of full page pictures as well as smaller ones through the text. Larry and Bruce appear at the beginning of each chapter and their range of expressions is incredible!

Ono (from book one) is only mentioned in passing in this story, which is a shame, but perhaps that little mention is hint of another book including her to come? We can only hope so. Meanwhile, Mort learns there ‘is beauty wherever you look for it’ and almost everyone lives happily ever after…But, in a land like Brutalia, who can tell what might happen next?!

Mort the Meek and the Monstrous Quest

Rachel Delahaye, illustrated by George Ermos

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1788953153

NB: Teachers- just be aware that ‘sod off’ is used a few times in the text!

Escape to the River Sea

Inspired by Eva Ibbotson’s classic, ‘Escape to the River Sea’ opens with the story of Rosa Sweetman, a young girl who arrived in England as part of the Kinderstransport. When no one comes to meet her, Rosa finds herself in the care of Sir Clovis and living at Westwood Estate, initially in the company of other schoolgirls evacuated from their city homes. Once the other children leave at the end of the war, Rosa remains, longing to be reconnected with her mother and sister who she parted from in Vienna. Although Sir Clovis and his wife, Lady Prue, are kind to her, Rosa longs for adventure and when a friend of the family, Yara Fielding, arrives for a visit, Rosa asks to accompany her to the Amazon in search of the giant sloth.

Captivated by the lush beauty of the rainforest, Rosa meets Yara’s lively family, who live on the banks of the river, and finds herself caught up in the adventure of a lifetime.

In ‘Escape to the River Sea’, Emma Carroll has achieved a perfect balance of her own voice and staying true to Eva Ibbotson’s original story. The story features familiar characters and locations from ‘Journey to the River Sea’ whilst introducing the next generation. Rosa is a very engaging young girl, whose hopeful nature has kept her optimistic about being reunited with her mother and sister, and whose love of animals has sustained her during her loneliness. With the new-found freedom of her trip to the Amazon, Rosa flourishes in a way she was not able to at Westwood.

Each setting is vividly described with the beauty of the rainforest and its creatures celebrated whilst highlighting the threats it is facing.  Emma Carroll also broadens the story, developing a new thread and mystery to solve, but I don’t wish to give any spoilers..!

‘Escape to the River Sea’ would make an excellent Guided Reading text or work brilliantly as a whole class book for a class read or as a focus text. There are many elements in the story to investigate and discuss and which could offer inspiration for different forms of writing, including poetry. Emma’s vivid scenes and the rich language she uses are a joy to explore.

One not to miss, ‘Escape to the River Sea’ is a fabulous read!

Escape to the River Sea Emma Carroll

Macmillan ISBN: 978-1529062700

Published 9th June 2022

This beautifully illustrated 20th anniversary edition of ‘Journey to the River Sea’ makes the perfect gift.

The Lights that Dance in the Night

Telling the story of the Northern Lights as they weave their magic across the Artic skies, ‘The Lights that Dance in the Night’ is the perfect story for winter evenings. Although the book’s blurb calls it a ‘wonderfully festive picture book’, it brings light and joy to the long, dark January nights!

The lyrical, descriptive text is a joy to read aloud as it describes the joyous dance of the lights across the sky, uniting all below in wonder and delight as they ‘sashay’ and ‘sway’ in the sky above. As ever with Yuval’s books, the illustrations are stunning; full of colour and detail, they are truly captivating. The cover is a particular joy with touches of sparkle and a textured, tactile surface.

However, as well as being a beautiful story in its own right, canny teachers will instantly recognise the many ways in which this book could be used to enhance other curriculum areas. The ‘purpose of study’ section of the Geography National Curriculum opens with the statement: A high-quality geography education should inspire in pupils a curiosity and fascination about the world and this ‘The Lights that Dance in the Night’ certainly does that! This is one of those stories which sparks endless questions and lines of enquiry for children of all ages, not only about the formation of the lights themselves, but also the animals and people who inhabit this region.

Storytellers wove our lights

into tales for long, dark nights.

A constant source of wonder and fascination across the years, the northern lights not only feature in traditional tales of the people indigenous to northern lands, but also feature in stories told more recently, like ‘The Chronicles of Ancient Darkness’ by Michelle Paver. Yuval’s story could be used to inspire writing poetry or descriptive writing about the lights and his illustrations are sure to tempt children to explore a variety of art techniques.

Sitting perfectly with Yuval’s other books, ‘A Thing Called Snow’ and ‘The Tree That’s Meant to Be’, ‘The Lights that Dance in the Night’ is sure to become a firm favourite.

The Lights that Dance in the Night Yuval Zommer

Oxford University Press ISBN: 978-0192769848

Furthermoor

Since his sister, Evie, died in an accident, Bren has been struggling. His family life has fractured and each day at school is made a misery by Shaun, who constantly torments him. Increasingly, Bren withdraws to Furthermoor, an imagined world reached when he picks up his sister’s watch, where Evie is still alive. Here, he feels safe until the arrival of the sinister Featherly, forces Bren to confront his deepest fears and face the real world once more.

Darren Simpson is well known for his thought-provoking stories and is not afraid to tackle challenging topics. ‘Furthermoor’ explores loss and how grief impacts those left behind. Bren’s family is devastated by Evie’s death and Bren’s anguish is almost palpable as he struggles to cope not only with his own loss, but change in his parents. In Furthermoor, he comes alive, shaping the world to his and Evie’s needs and feeling in control once more. The contrast highlights the way in which he tries to numb his daily existence by withdrawing. However, Featherly’s invasion of Furthermoor begins to destroy the safe haven Bren has created, forcing him to confront reality and begin to heal.

Bren is also on the receiving end of a targeted campaign of bullying and humiliation by Shaun. Here again, Darren Simpson taps into raw emotions, writing with great empathy and sensitivity, but not shying away from harsh reality. The differing approaches of Bren and new boy, Cary, to Shaun’s actions offers much to discuss.

Darren’s writing is always full of description and detail, bringing both the real and imagined world to life. ‘Furthermoor’ is perfect for those looking for a challenging, thought-provoking read.

Furthermoor Darren Simpson

Usborne ISBN: 978-1474976701

Publishing 3rd March 2022

Darren’s other books, ‘Scavengers’ and ‘The Memory Thieves’, are also excellent books, well worth reading!

The Thief Who Sang Storms

The island of Morovia is shaped like a broken heart. It is home to Linnet, an alkonost, one of the bird-like people with magical songs who inhabit the island. Three years previously, alkonosts and humans had lived peacefully together on the island, but a tragic event, which killed the queens of Morovia and Linnet’s mother, has caused a time of fear and division. The magical alkonosts have become objects of suspicion and have been driven into exile by Captain Ilya, leader of the royal guard, known as bogatyrs, who has taken charge as the Crown Heir Vasha is too young to rule.

Linnet and her father, Nightingale, now live in the Mournful Swamps, but she wants nothing more than to restore peace and harmony to her island, hoping that her magical song will be the answer to Morovia’s problems. But her magic hasn’t arrived and when Nightingale is captured, Linnet must find another way to mend the broken heart of her home.

Sophie Anderson is well-known for her powerful and moving stories and personally, I think this is her finest yet. Her characters are always well developed, easy to empathise with and full of life, set in well developed worlds.

This story is deeply poignant as Linnet struggles with her own pain, as well as her father’s ‘cloak of grief’, at the loss of her mother. However, throughout the story, she comes to realise that those we love are always with us in the memories we carry. Themes of friendship, love, unity and hope are also woven throughout the story as Linnet and her friends face the suspicion and division deeply rooted in their society. I defy anyone not to shed a tear or two as the story builds to its climax.

There is so much that I could write about ‘The Thief Who Sang Storms’, but it would be awful to spoil such a magical, beautiful story for anyone else. Suffice it to say that this is now one of my firm favourites which I can’t wait to share with children everywhere!

The Thief Who Sang Storms Sophie Anderson

Usborne ISBN: 978-1474979061

Published 31st March 2022