Pause for Poetry: My Heart is a Poem

‘My Heart is a Poem’ is a wonderful collection of poems, carefully selected to explore feelings and emotions. From happiness to misery, from excitement to anger, the poems here give voice to a wealth of emotions, sharing the experiences of others to help the reader make sense of their own.

There are so many poems here to enjoy, each beautifully illustrated. Whilst the collection is perfect of an individual to browse and enjoy, this collection also offers so much potential for use in school or for adults to share with children struggling to express their own feelings. Coral Rumble’s poignant poem, ‘Ache’, explores being left out of playground games, offering a perfect starting point for reflection and discussion during a circle time or assembly. ‘Stomp’ by Nikki Grimes is an explosion of emotion, empowering the reader with a way to ‘unload my hurt, my rage’ and discover, through using the written word, the ‘power to decide which words matter, which words don’t, and whose.’

‘Sadness’ by Nikita Gill is a breathtakingly beautiful moment of a poem, offering reassurance and hope, reminding us of the importance of acknowledging this emotion and embracing it so it is possible to move on. Personification is also used by Ruth Awolola whose poem ‘Talking to Tomorrow’ captures the giddy joy of anticipation for things to come. 'In ‘Blackbird’ by Rachel Plummer, the reader discovers ‘the secret of flying’.

This is a treasure trove of words which capture our emotions, encouraging empathy and compassion, giving a voice to a wealth of feelings. It really is a collection for everyone- a very special addition to any bookshelf.

My Heart is a Poem: Poetry About Feelings

Poets:

Mandy Coe Laura Mucha Nikki Grimes Naomi Shihab Nye Debjani Chatterjee Coral Rumble Kate Wakeling John Agard Karl Nova James Carter Valerie Bloom Janet Wong Joseph Coelho Ken Nesbitt Jack Prelutsky Nikita Gill Jay Hulme Rachel Plummer Ruth Awolola Elaine Laron

Illustrators:

Annalise Barber Mariana Roldan Masha Manapov Nabila Adani

Little Tiger ISBN: 9781838914400

You can read my review of ‘Courage in a Poem’ here.

God of the Ancient World

‘Gods of the Ancient World’ is a brilliant selection of myths and legends from around the world. The author starts with an introduction exploring why humans tell stories and why some might be more familiar to readers than others. Acknowledging that none of the tales ‘belong’ to her, she explains why she believes telling them is so important. As a lover of these ancient stories, I agree with what she says and think this book offers an excellent introduction for children (and adults) to find out more about where the stories included here are from and the people who told them.

Twenty three tales are included, each beautifully illustrated. A map of the world shows the reader where each story originated and the book is organised into four general ‘themes’- How the World Began, Gods Helping Humans, Rulers of Nature and Keeping Humans in Line. Among the stories in each section are spreads focusing on different themes, for example, Gods and Animals, The Maya People and Survivor Gods. It is a fascinating read, sure to excite curiosity and develop interest in these tales from the past.

A comprehensive index allows the reader to quickly locate specific information and as well as the drawn illustrations, photographs of real objects are also included which might also encourage children to pursue further research or to look for artefacts such as those shown here if they happen to be on a visit to a museum.

This collection also offers an invaluable resource for teachers, allowing them to locate stories which are linked to work in other subjects or for story times on days between class novels. There is much to enjoy and explore here with plenty to discuss.

Gods of the Ancient World: A Kid’s Guide to Ancient Mythology

Marchella Ward, illustrated by Xuan Le

Dorling Kindersley ISBN: 978-0241567791

The Circle Breakers

When Elle and her friends go to the Halloween funfair, they little expect a ride on the ghost train to take them back in time to 1880, face-to-face with the criminal mastermind behind The Vicious Circle, The Grandfather. They are amazed to learn that he needs their help and although they don’t want to help, the Infinites are faced with the possibility of public exposure and no Leaping will be safe. And so begins a thrilling adventure across time…

I am such a fan of this series! Elle is a wonderful heroine. Loyal and kind, her autism is depicted with care and attention to detail, inspiring empathy and understanding as she tackles the daily challenges she faces as well as those of being a Leapling. In this story, her world is turned upside down and yet, with the support of her friends, she finds the courage and strength she needs. Each character is well developed, but Big Ben remains my favourite!

Not only does the story offer an original and exciting adventure, but Patience seamlessly weaves various themes like environmental issues into the story, making for a thought-provoking read with much to discuss. The whole series is perfect for children in upper KS2 who are looking for something a bit different. With a palpable sense of tension and the celebration of true friendship, this is a book not to miss!

The Circle Breakers Patience Agbabi

Canongate ISBN: 9781838855796

Published today.

You can read about my trip to see Patience at The Story Museum in Oxford here.

Pause for Poetry: A Ticket to Kalamazoo!

Bursting with energy and exuberance, ‘A Ticket to Kalamazoo!’ is the perfect collection for encouraging and developing a love of poetry. These are poems which are crying out to be shared, performed and discussed time and time again, whatever mood you are in! Although pitched for younger readers, there are poems here to be enjoyed by all ages, including those which would work brilliantly as models to inspire children to create and write their own.

The collection is wonderfully interactive! Families or classes could invent their own actions for each of the creatures as they practise counting to ten without realising. As the poem suggests, ‘it might be nice just once or twice to do the ten again!’ There are fun riddles to solve and plenty to laugh about as you have a ‘handful of fun’, do the ‘Goldilocks Rap’ or visit the bug hotel.

Full of colour and fun, each poem is brilliantly illustrated by Neal Layton, making the book instantly appealing. Equally excellent for home or school, this is a must have collection for inspiring poets of the future and kindling a life-long love of words and their playfulness.

A Ticket to Kalamazoo! Zippy Poems to Read Out Loud

James Carter, illustrated by Neal Layton

Otter-Barry Books ISBN: 978-1913074104

Lunar New Year

Lunar New Year marks the beginning of the new year based on the lunisolar calendar and is the most important celebration for many Southeast and East Asian countries. This fantastic book explores the legends and traditions behind this festival with recipes and crafts to enjoy alongside the facts. For teachers, this is an invaluable resource as it offers a clear explanation of the customs and traditions linked to the Lunar New Year in different countries, ensuring the information they share with classes is both accurate and respectful. In 2023, Chinese New Year, Tết Nguyên đán (Vietnam) and Seollal (Korea) all fall on the 22nd January and although similar in some ways, each festival is different.

The book explains what is meant by the lunisolar calendar and the Chinese Zodiac before exploring the story of the ‘Great Race’ and how this differs from place to place. Other legends are also explored. For example, the legend of the Peach Tree explains why those who celebrate Tết often have an ornamental tree or branch on display in their homes. A glossary at the end of the book explains any possibly unfamiliar terms.

The arts and crafts section is packed with fun activities which are achievable and use readily available materials. The author has even considered this in the recipes section, advising that some ingredients can be substituted for those more commonly available whilst others can only be found in Asian food stores. The final section of the book offers decorated pages for the reader to use as a record of how they celebrated the Lunar New Year.

An excellent book for all to enjoy!

All About Lunar New Year

Kevin Tsang, illustrated by Linh Nguyen

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702315237

‘I Love Chinese New Year’ introduces the reader to Mai-Anne and her family as they prepare for Chinese New Year. She can’t wait to see her family and share the Reunion Dinner with them. Her Nai Nai tells her the story of the Great Race and when her Uncle Eric arrives, they can perform the family Dragon Dance and eat sweet tangerine pieces for good luck.

This is a delightfully warm, family-focused story. It offers a joyful introduction to the traditions of Chinese New Year for those who do not celebrate it whilst perfectly capturing the excitement and contentment of the special occasion for those who do. The illustrations are lively and colourful with plenty to notice and discuss. The story also reflects how special grandparent/ grandchild relationships can be. The book ends with facts about Chinese New Year and the Dragon Dance, allowing the reader to discover more about this fascinating festival if needed.

This is a book about a loving family as much as about an exciting festival making it an extra-special read!

I Love Chinese New Year

Eva Wong Nava, illustrated by Xin Li

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702315732

Cornish Tales

Having just returned from a lovely week in Cornwall, I have been reminded not only of how beautiful it is, but also how rich in folklore and legend. From Zennor to Mousehole, from Port Isaac to Fowey, it is steeped in stories. This collection of Cornish tales was first published by Andersen Press in 1986 under the name ‘The Magic Ointment’, this edition is beautifully illustrated and offers a real treasure trove of Cornish stories.

In the introduction, Eric Quayle acknowledges the role of Robert Hunt in the collecting of the Cornish folklore retold in this collection. Hunt was responsible for ‘Popular Romances of the West of England’, two volumes of stories which he edited and compiled, published in 1865 and this work was Quayle’s main source. Although born in Devon, Hunt spent most of his life in Cornwall where he gathered these tales of oral tradition and recorded them for posterity.

My copy is about 10 years old, having been purchased at what is now Shrew Books (then Bookends) in Fowey on one of our many trips to that part of the world, but I was delighted to see that it is still widely available in (book)shops across Cornwall today. Perfectly illustrated by the amazingly talented Michael Foreman, this is a book to be treasured and returned to again and again.

Through these stories, the reader learns about Jack the Giant-Killer who slew Cormoran, the giant of St Michael’s Mount, discover the fate of the witch of Fraddam and find out how Flora took the spriggans’ treasure and bought herself her dream cottage in St Ives. These tellings retain a feel of the oral tradition, capturing the sense of wonder and magic that must have been felt by those listening, wide-eyed, around the firesides of days gone by. A visit to Zennor in all its rugged beauty breathes truth into the tale of the Mermaid whose likeness is immortalised on the side of a bench in the church. Michael Foreman’s stunning illustrations capture the essence of each tale, adding much to their enjoyment.

For those interested in traditional tales, there is also the fascination of how stories told in different parts of the world- or even the same country - can be so similar and yet so different. ‘Duffy and the Devil’ has elements in common with Rumpelstiltskin or Tom Tit Tot and yet has a distinctive Cornish flavour in both setting and telling.

An absolute must-have for anyone interested in folklore, Cornwall or an excellent story!

Cornish Tales

Eric Quayle, illustrated by Michael Foreman

Mabecron Books ISBN: 978-0956435095

Still This Love Goes On

Based on the the song written by Buffy Sainte-Marie, ‘Still This Love Goes On’ is a joyful celebration of enduring love for the world we live in, reminding the reader to find beauty in everything around them. Through word and illustration, the seasons are brought to life as the cold winter days roll into summer and ‘still this love goes on and on’.

Whilst the words offer all the poetic power and cadence of song lyrics, the accompanying illustrations conjure the many joys of the natural world and long lasting traditions which are the fabric and soul of life. They capture the special moments and memories which last as ‘love goes on…’. A short glossary at the beginning of the book shares the meaning of some Cree phrases, most importantly kisâkihitin meaning ‘I love you’, helping the reader to share the essence of the Cree people and their ways, their belief in the interconnectivity of nature and people and a deep love for life.

At the end of the book, the sheet music for Buffy’s song has been included as well as notes from the author and illustrator about their inspiration for this work. There is so much which could develop from using this book with a class as a key text- or from sharing at a story time. It is sure to inspire children (and adults) to consider the things in their lives which they love- the places, the people- developing poetry, artwork, composing, research, environmental work in response.

A very beautiful, powerful book.

Still This Love Goes On

Buffy Sainte-Marie, illustrated by Julie Flett

Greystone Kids ISBN: 978-1771648073

I Really Really Love You So

Bush Baby is back- and just as adorable as ever! She has something really important to say…and explores more and more extreme ways of declaring her love and expressing how it makes her feel.

It is impossible to read this story without a huge smile on your face! Bush Baby’s enthusiasm is infectious and shows the importance of expressing how you feel in which ever way makes you happy. The text is a complete delight to real aloud as it trips along, building in pace in places and leaving moments to pause in others. Humour mingles with the poignancy of the message, making it a perfect book to share again and again with all those you love.

As with the first book about Bush Baby, ‘I Really Really Need a Wee’, there is no indication of gender (I have chosen to use ‘she/her’) allowing anyone to identify with Bush Baby and empathise with how she is feeling. Children are sure to add their own declarations of love as they read the story and find their own ways of sharing how they feel which is so important for us all.

The illustrations are as delightful as ever! One child told me previously that Duncan’s characters feel like ‘they are my friends because they look at me as if inviting me into the story’ and you can instantly understand what they mean when you look at Bush Baby. Her little face bursts with a vast range of emotions as she seeks to share her feelings and those eyes say it all!

‘I Really Really Love You So’ is a complete and utter joy. I can’t wait to see what Bush Baby gets up to next- tackling school, new food, bedtime…who cares?! Whatever she does, it is sure to be the basis of a wonderful story from this very talented duo!

I Really Really Love You So

Karl Newson, illustrated by Duncan Beedie

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1801044080

You can read my review of ‘I Really Really Need a Wee’ here and my Q and A session with Duncan Beedie here.

Blog Tour: The Octopus, Dadu and Me

I am absolutely to be starting my Blog Tours this year by being part of this one for ‘The Octopus, Dadu and Me’. I freely admit that I shed more than a few tears over this one and really recommend it as an excellent read, but also as a book to support those who find themselves in Sashi’s situation.

In this post, Lucy Ann Unwin shares her Top Five Books to help children relate to an older generation- excellent choices one and all- and I would like to suggest one of my own, ‘Wilfred Gordon McDonald Partridge’ by Mem Fox. Wilfrid Gordon McDonald Partridge is a little boy who lives next door to a nursing home. When he finds out that his special friend, Miss Nancy Alison Delacourt Cooper, is losing her memory, he tries to discover what a memory is and help Miss Nancy find hers once more. It is the most delightful story, showing the warmth of a ‘cross generational’ relationship and the special bond which can be formed.

Top 5: Books to Help Kids Relate to an Older Generation

In The Octopus, Dadu and Me I’m celebrating one of my favourite relationships — between children and their grandparents.

You can never take too much time thinking about what things might be like from an older person’s perspective — whether it’s a grandparent, neighbour, family friend, or just someone you happen to meet — I think these books really encourage that…

1.     The Tale of Truthwater Lake, by Emma Carroll

This book reminds me of when you see black and white photos from the past that have been re-coloured. Stories set in historical periods can feel like those monochrome pictures: safely assigned to “The Past”.

The magic of The Tale of Truthwater Lake is that a girl from the near future actually becomes a girl from the past … she sees through her eyes, uses her body, feels her feelings and learns from her strength. Like those coloured in photos.

2.     Bad Nana, That’s Snow Business!, by Sophy Henn

For younger readers, you can’t do better than Bad Nana. She has long been a favourite in our house and I fully aspire to be just like Bad Nana if I ever have grandchildren of my own!

The joy here is that Bad Nana is just a brilliant character full stop, and as far away from stereotypes as you could hope. In this particular book of the series, she gets bit carried away with her passions and makes as many bad choices as any child protagonist might!

3.     Keep Dancing, Lizzie Chu, by Maisie Chan

To start with, it’s not that instinctive to feel empathy for Wai Gong — main character Lizzie Chu’s grandparent and carer — as he’s not doing a very good job at looking after her. But Lizzie loves and cares about her wai gong, so we do too.

As the story goes on, the reader can’t help but feel for him as his grief and dementia combine. But it’s also a joy to see his enthusiasm in the things he loves, and his love and pride for Lizzie is incredibly moving.

4.  Grandpa Frank's Great Big Bucket List, by Jenny Pearson

This book is just hilarious and joyous, and takes a refreshingly direct approach to helping kids relate to an older generation, while being packed full of charm, humour and adventure. There’s even a chapter called: “Never Underestimate Old People”.

At the end, it includes a quiz about impressive old people and things you can do to help the older generations in your community.

5. Wished, by Lissa Evans

At the start of Wished, characters Ed and Roo are bored at the prospect of spending time with their elderly neighbour Miss Filey… they marvel at her ancient telly and her assumption that “WiFi” is a type of biscuit.

In the end, the transformation in their relationship is a total joy as through the book we see Miss Filey — Rosanna — as the fully rounded character she is, with a fierce sense of adventure, hopes and dreams still to achieve and friendships still to make.

I hope you enjoyed the list! I like to think The Octopus Dadu and Me would fit here too. Dadu means the world to my main character Sashi. When he develops dementia, her world starts to unravel.

She projects how she thinks her dadu must feel, alone in a care home, with how an octopus must feel, trapped in a tank — which is why she tries to set the octopus free. Hopefully, by the end, she’s gained a greater understanding of each of their lives, and how she can love and help them best.

Thank you so much to Lucy Ann Unwin for this excellent post and to the team at UCLan for inviting me to be part of the tour. ‘The Octopus, Dadu and Me’ is a gorgeous book, perfect for encouraging empathy and understanding, perfect for paving the way for conversations, perfect for enjoying. It really is a must read- make sure you do!

The Octopus, Dadu and Me Lucy Ann Unwin, illustrated by Lucy Mulligan

UCLan Publishing ISBN: 978-1915235039

All Four Quarters of the Moon

Making mooncakes with Ah Ma for the Mid-Autumn festival was the last day of Peijing’s old life where everything and everyone was familiar. As her family starts their new life in Australia, everything is different- new home, new school, new language, new customs- but her family also seem to be changing. Ma Ma is no longer smartly turned out and stays in the house; Ba Ba is home more, but retreats to his study; little sister, Biju, needs support and Ah Ma keeps forgetting things. Peijing feels she needs to help everyone else whilst feeling lost and alone herself.

This is a lovely story for many reasons. The bond between the two sisters is beautifully captured as it matures and develops in response to the girls’ new circumstances as they have to reevaluate the cultural traditions and familial obligations they have been brought up with in light of the new world they find themselves in . Each chapter is punctuated by stories told by Biju, her versions of the traditional tales told to her by Ah Ma, stories which unite the children and help them make sense of the world. The ‘Little World’ the girls create also changes in their new environment, eventually becoming something the whole family shares in.

The story is told in four part- through the four quarters of the moon- and as the moon changes so does Peijing and those around her. Big-hearted and loyal, Peijing is a wonderful character whose relationships within her family and with her new best friend, Joanna, show how empathetic and caring she is. It is a really comforting, reassuring read, as everyone comes to find their place in the end, being valued for who they are as they adapt and change to their new lives.

There is so much to discuss and enjoy in this lovely story, making it perfect for guided reading or for reading aloud. The rich cultural references, the wonderful characters, the sense of how we are all similar no matter how ‘different’- everything mingles perfectly, making this a story not to be missed.

All Four Quarters of the Moon Shirley Marr

Usborne ISBN: 978-1803704326

Pause for Poetry: Selfies with Komodos

Brian Moses is one of our best-known, best-loved children’s poets whose abundance of poems are read, enjoyed, performed and shared everywhere! His website is a treasure trove of ideas for writing poems, sure to tempt even the most metrophobic amongst us and the perfect place for teachers to find inspiration for their classes. His latest collection, ‘Selfies with Komodos’, has something for everyone.

‘Lost in a Book’ is a wonderful poem, perfect for teachers to share with classes and inspire the creation of their own versions, exploring stories which they know and love whilst discussing the joy that can be found by being ‘lost in a book’. ‘Librarians’ is another moment of joy, celebrating the essential role they play.

Some of the poems are accompanied by notes, offering additional explanation or information to help the reader understand them. For example, Brian explains where the inspiration for ‘The Sea’s Ghosts’ came from- a wonderfully atmospheric piece- and offers the definition of ‘flip-flop words’. So many of these poems would make brilliant models for children to create their own and encourage a love of word play and experimentation.

There are humorous poems, thought-provoking poems, ‘silly’ poems…so much to love! Packed with fun illustrations by Ed Boxall, this is an essential collection for home- school- everywhere!

Selfies With Komodos Brian Moses, illustrated by Ed Boxall

Otter-Barry ISBN: 978-1913074098

Published 19th January

Alcatoe and the Turnip Child

Alcatoe is the most reclusive creature living in Plum Woods. She also happens to be a witch. Goonwartha, head of the Witches’ Social Club, isn’t too keen on her and the feeling is mutual. When three children find Alcatoe’s hat, they decide to return it to her and ask for her help to win the Harvest Festival Vegetable Pageant and beat rotten Mr Pokeweed, a nasty vegetable grower! Alcatoe agrees as she sees this as an opportunity to wreak havoc at the event and cause trouble for its organiser- Goonwartha. Chaos follows before order and harmony are restored.

Highly engaging, ‘Alcatoe and the Turnip Child’ is presented through a perfect balance of short sections of text, speech bubbles and illustrations, making it a very accessible and satisfying read.

The illustrations are full of details and different layouts can be ‘read’ in different ways, keeping the reader looking carefully whilst enjoying the story. The autumnal colours used throughout create the perfect seasonal feel and the Turnip child is delightful. This is a quirky, unique story that is sure to find a keen following of fans!

Alcatoe and the Turnip Child Isaac Lenkiewicz

Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1838740146

Aesop’s Fables

Fables are short stories, often with animal characters, which have a moral at their core offering the reader- or listener- wisdom. Aesop is probably the best known teller of these tales with stories like ‘The Tortoise and the Hare’ and ‘The Lion and the Mouse’, familiar to us all. In this new collection, Caroline Lawrence has interspersed the tales with sections from an ancient biography about Aesop, allowing the reader to learn more about the man himself whilst enjoying his stories.

Each fable has been concisely told, making the collection perfect for dipping in and out of, with a fable being specially selected for discussion (or simply for pleasure0 or for reading from end to end. Many of the stories feature talking animals, but living in ancient Greece, Aesop’s tales also make reference to the gods- ‘Zeus and the Honeybees’, ‘Heracles, Athena and Strife’ and ‘Zeus, Hermes and the Ostraka’, for example. Originally, these fables would have been told and retold through the words of storytellers, embellished and coloured as the teller saw fit down through the ages, but in this edition, Caroline Lawrence has returned to the surviving Greek and Latin manuscripts, translating from these ancient texts rather than re-telling the stories in her own words. This offers possibilities for comparing different versions and discussing how they have developed and altered over the years as well as enjoying the ‘flavour’ of each story as Aesop intended.

Set in a world we no longer recognise, these translations contain words which are no longer familiar to us and so a comprehensive glossary of ‘Aesop’s Words’ at the end of the book helps the reader understand terms like mormolukeion, gymnasiarch or ostraka. Pronunciation guides are included which is very helpful for anyone reading the fables aloud.

The whole collection is beautifully illustrated by Robert Ingpen whose pictures enhance the fables. Little vignettes are scattered throughout whilst some pages are devoted to full illustrations, capturing the feeling of those ancient times.

Great for sharing at home or at school, this edition of ‘Aesop’s Fables’ is one not to be missed!

Aesop’s Fables

Caroline Lawrence, illustrated by Robert Ingpen

Webeck Publishing ISBN: 978-1913519902

Paradise Sands

Washed clean in his pool, we fall under his rule
Away from what is, for we are now his.

A young girl and her brothers set off on a car journey through a desolate desert to visit their mother. On the way, they stop to pick flowers for her and, spotting a mysterious building, head towards it in search of a drink. Deaf to their sister’s words of caution, the brothers fall under the spell of the place, leaving their sister to rescue them.

I almost don’t know where to start with this one! I have long had deep admiration for the genius of Levi Pinfold as both storyteller and artist, but ‘Paradise Sands’ is just incredible. It is a mesmerising tale which leaves the reader full of questions and returning to each spread again and again to dwell on the stunning illustrations, searching for clues, finding answers- and promptly questioning them and pondering again.

The book begins with a rhyme about Teller’s Hollow before the reader is shown three boys in a car, waiting for a girl to close the door of a house and join them. During the car journey, the siblings decide to take their mother flowers and Bill, who is driving, recalls the rhyme. This is the start of their adventure as the brothers drink deeply from a spring outside the strange house they find, enter the building and are tempted to eat what they discover and find themselves trapped. Their sister must save them and she does- but at what future cost?

At every step of the story, there is much to absorb and spark discussion, making it a perfect text for exploring with a class. In the hands of the right teacher, top quality responses in drama, reading and writing would be guaranteed in response to exploring this book which is sure to spark imagination and wonder. The artwork is stunning - again, there is much to learn from and talk about here.

I cannot recommend this one highly enough.

Paradise Sands Levi Pinfold

Walker Studio ISBN: 978-1406383942

Wild

After the death of his father, Jack struggles to cope. He resents how busy his mother is at work, keenly feeling the loss of the person who he believes knew him the best. Everything has changed and Jack finds himself under the influence of a new group of ‘friends’ who lead him to do things which he knows are wrong and everything starts to spiral out of control. When his mother suggests that he join her on a trip to the rainforest, Jack agrees. He finds himself launched into a completely different world where it seems his mother has another life with friends-like-family that Jack knew nothing about and a passion for saving the rainforest from loggers who are encroaching on the indigenous people’s land. As they travel through the unfamiliar and unpredictable rainforest, Jack begins to find himself once more…

Ele Fountain is an incredible author whose writing truly transports the reader to the world of her books, immersing them in the life of her characters. In ‘Wild’, she presents Jack, whose raw grief can be felt in his every action whilst he himself is trying to quash his emotions and escape the reality of life without his father. His sense of isolation from his mother and his resentment of her for not being his father- the person he made plans with, the one who he talked with all the time- is palpable as he tries to close himself off from her. The one thing that he still feels a passion for- street art- seems to be the very thing that will tempt him down a darker path. As a parent, I feel for his mother; as a mother, I feel for Jack.

As the story moves to the rainforest, all the beauty and dangers of this remote location are vividly described. Conservation issues and respect for the indigenous people are skilfully woven into the fabric of the tale, creating greater impact as the reader, through Jack’s eyes and experience, becomes invested in this unique place. The story would make an excellent text to use at the heart of learning in English with much to discuss and explore for reading, writing and discussion as well as offering satisfying cross curricular possibilities.

One NOT to miss- publishing 4th May 2023.

Wild Ele Fountain

Pushkin Press ISBN: 978-1782693840

Bramble Fox

Magic is everywhere.

When Portia goes to stay with her mother’s aunt, Rose, in North Wales, she is intrigued by the behaviour of a strange golden-eyed fox which leads her to discover a hidden key. When the fox leads her to a doorway, she cannot resist seeing whether the key will open it- and finds herself in the world of Faerie. To her horror, she learns she has disturbed the Grey King, who is eager to cross over into the Human World with his ghostly army and spread his fog of forgetting. With the help of her new found friend, Ben, Portia must decide who to trust if they are to save both the Faerie and the human worlds.

Rich in folklore and mythology, this is a wonderful story. It is a difficult one to review without spoiling it for anyone who hasn’t read it so I will be briefer than usual!

Portia and Ben make an excellent team, coming to value one another and appreciate each others strengths. Ben is struggling to come to terms with the death of his father whilst Portia lives with the shadow of her mother’s mental illness. Both learn much on their adventure- about themselves and about others- but I found Ben’s ‘journey’ particularly fascinating. He is a very endearing character, shown both through his own actions and the reactions of others to him.

The story is full of references to Shakespeare, story, mythology and, of course, the natural beauty of Wales, Eryri (Snowdonia) in particular. It is a magical mix, steeped in the wonder of the imagination with hints at half-remembered tales, offering the reader a comfortable familiarity which makes it seem almost real! Inspiration from the real world and that of the faerie mingle perfectly in these pages.

Once I had finished the story, I found myself pondering on the importance of translating books from other languages into English. This is a treasure I never would have been able to read were it not for the skill of translator, Cathrin Wirtz, or the vision of Pushkin Press whose books I love. It is so important to offer these stories as part of the cornucopia of reading delights available to children to ensure their reading lives are enriched by opening new horizons and exploring ideas and writings beyond those of their native language.

One not to be missed!

Bramble Fox Kathrin Tordasi, translated by Cathrin Wirtz

Pushkin Children’s ISBN: 978-1782693451

Bramble Fox Kathrin Tordasi, translated by Cathrin Wirtz

Pushkin Children’s ISBN: 978-1782693451

Pause for Poetry: We Wish You a Merry Christmas

I have quite a collection of Christmas poetry books gathered over the years so might be asked why I needed another one. Well, firstly, you can never have too many picture books and secondly, this one has been illustrated by Chris Riddell- so ask no more!

This collection offers a real pocketful of Christmas cheer, containing both traditional gems and more recent Christmas classics. Carols like ‘We Wish You a Merry Christmas’, ‘The Holly and the Ivy’ and ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’, are included alongside Benjamin Zephaniah’s modern classic, ‘Talking Turkeys’- much loved in schools everywhere!

There are moments of poignancy amid the Christmas cheer, provoking thought and reflection. Brian Moses’s ‘Going Home’ and Lemn Sissay’s ‘Let There Be Peace’ make the reader pause and reflect whilst Jackie Kay’s ‘Promise’ looks forward to the New Year.

A collection with something for everyone, ‘We Wish You a Merry Christmas and Other Festive Poems’ is lavishly illustrated by Chris Riddell, making it a visual treat as well as a poetic one. Perfect for dipping in and out of over the festive season, this is a beautiful compilation, a gift which is sure to lay the foundation for a new family tradition of sharing poems at Christmas.

We Wish You a Merry Christmas and Other Festive Poems

Chosen and illustrated by Chris Riddell

Macmillan ISBN: 978-1529086423

You can read my review of ‘The Big Amazing Poetry Book’ here.

Resist

The Netherlands are occupied by the Nazis meaning its people are daily faced with hardship and danger. Food is in short supply and everyone is in fear of arrest - or worse. Edda’s family, like many, have been affected by the occupation and is determined to aid the resistance in any way she can.

Inspired by the real life story of Audrey Hepburn, ‘Resist’ is an excellent novel, highlighting the experiences of those living in the Netherlands during World War II whilst sensitively portraying Hepburn’s early years. This is historical fiction at its best- Tom is well known for his meticulous research and brilliant writing and uses these skills to illuminate lesser known stories from this period. In ‘Resist’, he shines a light on the contribution of the Dutch resistance and the suffering of the people of the Netherlands during the occupation. Tom conveys the constant fear people lived under, the desperate hunger they faced, the casual cruelty of the oppressors, the fierce determination of those resisting without the book becoming too distressing or overwhelming for the audience at which it is aimed. It is easy to empathise with Edda and understand her desire to do everything she can to thwart the Nazis despite the personal danger she - and others - faced and knowing that this is based on the youthful experiences of a film and fashion icon makes the story all the more compelling.

There is so much to recommend this book to teachers to support and extend learning in history, but it is also an excellent story to develop children’s knowledge of this period, helping them to make connections and deepen their understanding. Further information about Audrey Hepburn and the situation in the Netherlands is offered at the end of the book, sure to encourage additional reading and research- or, perhaps, inspire travel to visit some of the locations mentioned. The importance of excellent historical fiction cannot be underestimated.

Resist: One Girl’s Fight Back Against the Nazis

Tom Palmer, illustrated by Tom Clohosy Cole

Barrington Stoke ISBN: 978-1800901063

Snow White and other Grimm’s Fairy Tales

The ninth in this stunning series, ‘Snow White and Other Grimm’s Fairy Tales’ would make the perfect gift for any book lover at this-or any- time of year. Twenty of their tales- some better known than others- are included here, making the book a wonderful introduction to the stories gathered by the brothers for those who new to them or a beautiful addition to the shelves of any collector.

Some of the stories have their alternative titles in brackets alongside those which are better known- Snowdrop (Snow White), Briar Rose (Sleeping Beauty), Ashputtel (Cinderella), for example, prefect for encouraging discussions about the origins of these tales and how they have changed over the years. Each story is accompanied by beautiful colour illustrations, but some have interactive pictures with fold-outs and flip-ups which really help to bring the tale to life. Cinderella, in her golden gown, stands on the dance floor, Rapunzel’s tower rises from the page, the dancing princesses leap from the book… there is so much to enjoy and return to again and again.

These stories are translations from the original German and so are not the ‘Disneyfied’ versions many know, but contain the darker elements as told to the Grimm Brothers as they collected these stories on their travels. Children will enjoy comparing these to the versions which they know and (in my experience!) revel in the gory details and frissons of fear which they offer.

Of course, one of these beautiful books is never enough and is sure to lead to buying the rest of the collection!

Snow White and Other Grimms’ Fairy Tales

The Brothers Grimm, illustrated by MinaLima

Harper Collins ISBN: 978-0063208247

You can read about my visit to Grimms’ World here.

The Woodcutter and the Snow Prince

A lonely woodcutter named Kai lives deep in a forest where he spends his time carving statues for people to enjoy. One night, he remembers a tale his grandmother used to tell him about a cursed Snow Prince with a heart made of ice who would turn people to ice. However, when Kai is visited by the Prince, he finds the companionship he has been longing for. In the morning, Kai is devastated to find his new friend has disappeared and kai is alone once more. Determined to find his Prince, Kai sets off on a perilous journey to free the Snow Prince from his curse.

Loosely based on ‘The Snow Queen’, ‘The Woodcutter and the Snow Prince’ is a wonderfully heart-warming story. Christmas can be a very isolating time for many and Kai’s loneliness is tenderly captured, encouraging empathy through both the illustrations and the text. There is a sense that the Snow Prince is also alone, isolated by misunderstanding and fear, and the meeting of these kindred spirits offers both the companionship and happiness they have been seeking. Kai’s determination to find his Prince and break the curse shows the power of love and friendship, echoing Gerda’s quest to find her Kai in Andersen’s original tale or Anna’s journey to find her sister, Elsa, in ‘Frozen’. There is so much to discuss here about what it is to be human and the importance of meeting the basic human need for love, acceptance and understanding.

The illustrations are stunning. Icy whites and indigo blues capture the magical wintery landscape perfectly, contrasting with the cosy warmth of Kai’s home. The end papers are a thing of genius- showing how perspective and attitude can alter our emotional landscape and open us to very different possibilities. Each spread is a joy with many details to notice and linger over.

A Christmassy tale for every day of the year!

The Woodcutter and the Snow Prince

Ian Eagleton, illustrated by Davide Ortu

Owlet Press ISBN: 978-1913339494