Reviews
There are so many incredible books available at the moment that it is impossible to read them all, no matter how hard I try! Here are my thoughts about some of the books I have read and how I think they could be used in school as well as Q and A sessions with authors and illustrators.
Gods and Monsters: Mythological Poems
Combing two of my favourite things-poetry and mythology, ‘Gods and Monsters’ was always going to be a personal reading paradise, but this fabulous collection exceeded even my high expectations! It is a veritable dragon’s horde of joy in poem form.
Loosely grouped into ten sections, the book covers poems reflecting a diverse range of myths and legends from across the world, written by an incredible range of poets. Through these works, readers will re-encounter old favourites and discover a wealth of new ones whether they work their way through the collection as a whole of dip in and out as they please.
Many of the poems included are perfect for using as a story time, enriching children’s experience of poetry and expanding their knowledge of ‘the old stories’. ‘Arachnophobia’ by Kate Wise offers a perfect starting point for discovering the story of Athene and Arachne and the etymology of the title whilst the poem ‘Did you know earthquakes come from a catfish?’ explores the Japanese mythology. There are so many poems which could lead to further discovery as well as being enjoyed in their own right.
Classics like ‘The Odyssey’ and ‘Jabberwocky’ mingle with more recent works. The opening poem, ‘Faith’ by Dawn McLachlan, was new to me and is now a firm favourite! There are humorous poems- ‘Mrs Icarus’ (Carol Ann Duffy) or ‘Going to Bed’ (A F Harrold), for example- as well as moving ones, all beautifully illustrated by the incomparable Chris Riddell whose skill manages to capture each mood and feeling.
Gods and Monsters: Mythological Poems
Chosen by Ana Sampson, illustrated by Chris Riddell
Macmillan ISBN: 978-1035023011
Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.
Becoming Brave: A True Story of Love and Loss, Courage and Hope
A chance meeting results in love at first sight for Jennie and Abram. A worrier, Jennie falls in love with Abram’s fearlessness, the fact that he was never afraid to follow his heart. But when the worst happens and Jennie finds herself alone, will she be able to find her own courage?
‘Becoming Brave’ is a gentle, heart-warming story about love, grief and finding the courage to lively boldly. Poignant text is supported by moving illustrations which capture the highs and lows of Jennie and Abram’s relationship,
Jennie’s success in finding her courage when the worst had happened, in creating a passion from her tragedy, is a powerful message of hope, perfect for starting conversations and offering comfort in the face of adversity. By taking positive action, Jennie is able to move forwards with her life, never forgetting Abram, but helping others through the constant celebration of his life and love of music. The story recognises that it is possible to be happy and sad at the same time- a truly up-lifting story.
Becoming Brave: A True Story of Love and Loss, Courage and Hope
Jennie Cashman Wilson, illustrated by Tomekah George
Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1838914646
Within my Branches
This beautiful book follows the life of a single tree, from acorn to mighty oak and the fate that befalls it at the hands of men. Red text on stark white pages tells the story accompanied by gorgeous black and white illustrations, making the book a thing of beauty to be lingered over again and again.
The book celebrates the tree’s role in nature, the many creatures and birds it shelters and feeds, the many seeds it scatters which in turn grow to be trees as the world changes around it. Steadfast through storms, it is man’s actions which ultimately topple it, launching the tree into a new, unfamiliar life on the seas, carrying adventurers on their journeys.
The illustrations are just beautiful. The endpapers show the acorn’s germination as it grows to a small sapling, spreading its leaves to the light and each picture tells a story of its own, offering much to discuss and explore. It is a very special book, focusing attention on the beauty of trees and the essential role they play in our world.
Within My Branches Nicolas Michel
Pushkin Press ISBN: 978-1782694083
The After School Crime Club
Willow was very close to her Nana so having friends of her own age never really mattered, but when her grandmother dies, it feels as if the one person who really knew her has gone. The fact that her mum is clearing out Nana’s house and refusing to visit the grave is making things worse and to top it all, Willow is having to attend an after school club at the local bookshop to support her learning. Keen to please her mother by making some friends her own age, Willow decides to try and fit in with the others, particularly Tay Wilding who Willow finds fascinating. Soon, Willow finds herself accepting dares which she becomes increasingly uncomfortable with…
Gripping from the outset, ‘The After School Crime Club’ is a story which will resonate with many readers. Willow is at a point in her life where she feels adrift. The loss of her Nana hits her hard, robbing her of the one person she felt truly at ease with. Her mother is also struggling, leaving Willow feeling unable to share her emotions with those closest to her and with a huge void in her life . At a time when she is most vulnerable, Willow is thrust into a new situation- that of the after school revision club where she is keen to try to fit in.
The story is skilfully told as Willow faces personal dilemmas posed by the challenges she is set, at first trying to justify things or brush them off as unimportant and the reader feels great empathy as Willow tries to reconcile herself to the dares, their consequences and the friendship tightrope she finds herself walking. Trying to fill the gaps in her life, Willow soon realises that she is not being true to herself and emerges stronger and wiser. There is so much to reflect on here as Willow’s experiences of loss, loneliness and the desire to fit in are sure to echo those of readers and the uplifting, thoughtful conclusion is sure to offer comfort and courage to many.
Brilliant read!
The After School Crime Club
Hayley Webster
Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1788006064
Glow: a child’s guide to the night sky
This beautifully presented book offers a fabulous combination of ancient and modern, science and story, resulting in a completely absorbing and informative read. The opening note from the author instantly fires the reader with her enthusiasm for, and interest in, the night sky and all the wonders it contains.
A clear table of contents makes it easy for the reader to locate the fifteen different topics covered, each with a sub-heading referring to it as the ‘hero of…’ something. This intriguing note is sure to spark curiosity in itself and once the reader has located the pages they have chosen, there is so much to discover! Information is clearly presented in accessible sections with clear headings and plenty of attractive illustrations. The reader is treated to a ‘brief history’ of each planet/star/celestial body where they can discover some of the fascinating myths, legends and beliefs from around the world which it has inspired. The book also offers guidance on how to locate the planet in the night sky- there is so much to enjoy here!
Written in a chatty, engaging tone, ‘Glow’ makes a challenging subject completely accessible and enjoyable. It would make an excellent addition to any book collection to support children learning about space in school, but is also perfect non-fiction to inspire reading for pleasure.
Glow: A Child’s Guide to the Night Sky
Noelia Gonzalez, illustrated by Sara Boccaccini Meadows
Magic Cat ISBN: 978-1913520786
We Are All Astronauts
Luna Scope, aged seven-and-a-bit Earth years is determined to be an astronaut. Full of enthusiasm, she is about to launch herself into her ambition, but fortunately, her granny is on hand to guide her with some excellent advice. Luna learns about spacesuits and telescopes, stars and space rocks, gravity and gravity. Granny also introduces her to some space heroes and over-looked animal pioneers whose achievements paved the way for the humans who followed.
Written in the same fun-filled, highly illustrated style as the ‘Fantastically Great Women’ series which Kate Pankhurst is so well known for, ‘We are All Astronauts’ is packed with information, sure to engage and fascinate. The author’s note explains her inspiration for writing the story came from the real-life story of the Mercury 13, a group of female trainee astronauts who never reached space because they were women. The book is brimming with positivity and inspiration, shining a light on the contributions of women, and proudly shouting the message that anyone can be an astronaut- or anything else- if they reach for the stars!
The joy of this book is that it will appeal to children of different ages who will read it in different ways. There is much to explore in the illustrations, Granny and Luna’s story to follow, biographical information, labelled diagrams, fact boxes… it is possible to read it in small snippets or as a whole, thoroughly enjoying it however it is tackled. Asterisks are used to indicate definitions of some of the technical vocabulary used, clearly explaining words to support the reader’s understanding without spoiling the flow of the text.
Perfect for using as a guided reading text, to support learning about space, as the basis for investigative play or as a basis for a book group session full of fun activities, ‘We Are All Astronauts!’ makes an excellent addition to any bookshelf!
We are ALL Astronauts Kate Pankhurst
Bloomsbury ISBN: 978-1526615435
Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.
Deadly Deep
It’s the Summer term and Club Loser are on a school trip with the rest of Year 8, sailing off the coast of France to learn about marine life. But, as usual, things take a sinister turn and they must pitch themselves against another Latchitt - and their latest devious creation! What could possibly go wrong?!
Once again, our Queen of Scream has produced a brilliant adventure which manages to balance being fantastically funny with frissons of fear! In the Dread Wood books, Jennifer has created a brilliant team of mis-matched friends whose loyalty and belief in one another shines through on every page. She has an incredible knack for creating relatable, realistic characters, who real children identify with (they do- I’ve asked!), and are cheering on every step of the way.
These books always launch into action. The reader knows from page one that things are not going to go well and tension builds rapidly as the plot develops, resulting in a completely absorbing and enthralling read. This brilliant blend of humour, action and horror is a winning combination and although I always prefer a book, I can see that this series would translate into amazing films with some very ‘real’ kids in the starring roles!
‘Dread Wood’ was the winner of the Books for Older Readers Category of the Children’s Book Awards earlier this year, proving how popular these stories are with the readers they are actually intended for- a better review than my poor ramblings could ever be! This series is perfect for keeping those children who are at the age we all know we are most in danger of losing as readers reading and enjoying books!
Dread Wood: Deadly Deep
Jennifer Killick
Farshore ISBN: 978-0008538576
‘Dread Wood’ here, Crater Lake here and Crater Lake Evolution here. You can read about a visit from Jennifer Killick here.
When Frankie Made a Human
All Frankie wants is to make a friend. His monster classmates are constantly unkind to him, leaving him feeling lonely. He decides to make himself a friend- a human one. After the Big Argument, humans moved away from Monsterweld, but Frankie is sure it will be OK. However, as he gets to know his creation, Frankie realises that humans might be more trouble than they are worth…
Told with Rachel Delahaye’s trademark humour, ‘When Frankie Made a Human’ is a brilliant read. Although a ‘monster’, Frankie is a gentle, thoughtful soul who longs for a friend. In a twist on Mary Shelley’s original, the monster creates a human who he calls Fido- with disastrous consequences. Although Fido’s antics provide much to chuckle over, the story cleverly presents the reader with plenty to think about in terms of how humans’ desire for progress is not always a good thing.
The importance of friendship is at the heart of the book. Frankie’s classmates taunt him with their thoughtless comments and unkind behaviour, suddenly taking interest in him when they thought it was worth it for them and then casually abandoning him again once they lost interest. Fido becomes manipulative, using ‘friendship’ as a way of getting Frankie to agree with him and even Frankie is suspicious of ‘Spooky Suki’ and her dolls before coming to value her as a friend. The story offers plenty of opportunities for discussions about getting to know people rather than judging on appearance and exploring what real friendship might look like.
There is so much to enjoy and explore in this story! Generously illustrated throughout by Maïté Schmitt, it would make a perfect class story or guided reading text as well as a most enjoyable independent read. I hope there are more adventures for Frankie and Suki to come!
When Frankie Made a Human
Rachel Delahaye, illustrated by Maïté Schmitt
Sweet Cherry ISBN: 978-1782268253
You can read my review of Mort the Meek and the Monstrous Quest here , Mort the Meek and the Perilous Prophecy here, Day of the Whale here and Electric Life here.
Mermedusa
This fifth and final trip to Eerie-on-Sea concludes Herbie and Violet’s adventures and, like others I’m sure, I read ‘Mermedusa’ with mixed feelings- delight at another visit to one of my favourite fictional places and great sadness that there would be no more!
The hosts of the Anomalous Phenomena podcast have arrived in Eerie-on-Sea with the intention of uncovering the truth about the Malamander and broadcast this to the world. Already troubled by unsettling dreams and a strange humming throbbing through the town, Herbert Lemon, Lost-and-Founder at the Grand Nautilus Hotel, is horrified when his arch-nemesis, Sebastian Eels, re-appears in the town. Together, Herbie and Violet must discover the Deepest Secret of eerie-on-Sea- and ‘find’ themselves in the process.
‘Mermedusa’ is a stunning finish to what has been the most enjoyable series of books. Thomas Taylor cleverly draws all the threads of the story together, offering a satisfying conclusion to the mysteries of Eerie-on-Sea. Most importantly, Violet and Herbie have not only found themselves, but have found each other in a true and enduring friendship which really shows how opposites attract and complement each other!
Each character in these books is wonderfully unique and completely unforgettable from the Mermonkey at The Eerie Book Dispensary and Erwin the talking cat to the eccentric Lady Kraken who watches the town with her cameraluna and grumpy hotel manager, Mr Mollusc, who the reader learns more of in this final book.
As well as making an excellent series to be enjoyed and explored independently, these books are excellent for guided reading sessions or as whole class story time texts. Full of humour and heart, there are so many ways in which the ‘Eerie-on-Sea Mysteries’ are perfect for developing a love of reading.
Mermedusa Thomas Taylor
Walker ISBN: 978-1529502138
Published on 7th September
Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.
You can read my review of ‘Malamander’ here and ‘Festergrimm’ here. (Apologies that ‘Shadowghast’ is missing from the photo- it’s been borrowed!)
A History of the World According to Cats
It’s finally time for a proper history of the world- one told from a feline perspective! Written in a light-hearted tone, this is the purrr-fect guide to understanding the key role that claw-rageous cats, their helpful humans and their fur-raising adventures have played in shaping history. It is a brilliant read!
Being an ailurophile (see the glossary), I have had the great pleasure of sharing my life with quite a number of feline companions and so found this book fascinating from start to finish. Starting by exploring the domestication of cats, the book then follows the very key role they played at various stages of history across the world, acknowledging that there are some fairly major gaps where little is known - for example, how cats came to China or Japan. The book introduces the evidence which has helped piece together the puzzle, offering theories and ideas which have led to humans all over the world benefitting from feline companionship.
The book also looks at some ‘four-legged adventurers’ - a selection of furry globetrotters! Cats have accompanied their owners across the world, like Mrs Chippy, the best friend of Harry McNish, who joined Shackleton on the ‘Endurance’ expedition and those who were companions to the rich and famous. There are also cats which have inspired artists to create beautiful images and a whole pounce of black cats- often given a bad reputation for no good reason!
There is so much to browse and enjoy! One of my cats- Buggs- was famous for gently tapping things off a shelf and looking surprised when they crashed to the floor so it doesn’t surprise me that Isaac Newton’s clever cat CC gave him the idea for his theory about gravity rather than an apple! There is plenty here to entertain, inform and fascinate cat-lovers as well as educating those who have not yet discovered the pure joy a purring puss-kin can bring.
A History of the World (According to Cats!)
Kimberlie Hamilton, illustrated by Jocelyn Kao
Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702318351
Published 14th September 2023
You can read my review of ‘Rebel Cats!’ here and ‘Rebel Animals at Risk’ here.
A Whale of a Time: A Funny Poem for Every Day of the Year
The latest in Nosy Crow’s beautiful cloth bound poetry anthologies, ‘A Whale of a Time’ offers a humorous poem for each day of the year. Sharing works from all over the world, the collection uses regional spellings to remain faithful to the original voice of each poet.
Arranged month by month, each section has its own contents page, making it easy to locate, not only the poem for the day, but any work in that section, encouraging readers to return to favourites again and again. There are so many treasures here, each bringing laughter and brightening the day. One poem by Celia Warren made me smile as it reminded me of so many bedtimes- of my own son, of nieces and nephews, of friends’ little ones- and is sure to be a night time favourite, causing giggles as children recognise their own tactics!
As well as being amusing, there are poems which suit different times of the year. The 5th of November has a funny firework poem, the end of October features spooky poems and there is a Christmassy feel around the end of December. Pancakes and love appear in February and fools in April. Each page is an absolute joy, helping to add a sprinkle of poetry to each day of the year.
The illustrations complement the poems brilliantly! ‘Daddy Fell into the Pond’ - a great personal favourite - written by Alfred Noyes (better known for ‘The Highwayman’!) is accompanied by the perfect picture, capturing all its charm! Elsewhere smiling cats, laughing children and happy hares add to the exuberance and appeal of the collection, which looks stunning alongside ‘I Am the Seed That Grew the Tree: A Nature Poem for Every Day of the Year’ and ‘Tiger, Tiger, Burning Bright: An Animal Poem for Every Day of the Year’.
A Whale of a Time: A Funny Poem for Every Day of the Year
Selected by Lou Peacock, illustrated by Matt Hunt
Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1839942013
Published 14th September 2023
Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.
Never Ever Ever Ask a Pirate to a Party
‘Never Ever Ever Ask a Pirate to a Party’ is the perfect picture book for having a giggle and engaging children with the joy of a good book! Colourful fun illustrations make the perfect accompaniment to the lively text.
An increasingly bizarre array of guests arrive at a little girl’s birthday party. Although initially fun, their antics eventually lead to chaos and confusion, causing the little girl to send them all home! As each new arrival appears, the text follows a familiar pattern, perfect for encouraging listeners to join in- with plenty to laugh as they do! Children are sure to enjoy thinking of their own characters who might join the party- and the chaos they might cause! They might enjoy designing and writing their own invitations
The illustrations are wonderful- full of fun and details to notice! At the heart of the story is a message of real friendship. Having upset the little girl, her friends are quick to apologise and make amends whilst the little girl in turn realises the importance of having those friends around, despite the disarray and mayhem they caused!
This is the sort of book which would have had my son calling, ‘Again! Again!’ for another read the minute it was finished! It’s sure to become a firm favourite at home and at school!
Never Ever Ever Ask a Pirate to a Party
Clare Helen Welsh, illustrated by Anne-Kathrin Behl
Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1839942181
You can read my review of ‘Sunny Side Up’ here.
The Secret Lives of Dragons
Written by international dragon expert and professor at the World School of Dragons, Zoya Agnis, this book offers all you need to know about dragons. Organised into four clear sections, it explores what a dragon is, the different types of dragon across the world, ancient dragon history and the study of drackenosophy.
Dragons are endlessly fascinating creatures which never cease to excite the imagination. Written as if a factual account, this guide to dragons looks at some of the most famous myths and legends as well as offering information about dragon life-cycles and habitats, their evolution and anatomy. Each spread is lavishly illustrated, full of detail and creativity.
Not only is this the perfect book for children who love fantasy, it makes a wonderful text for teachers to use as a model for imaginative writing about other creatures- perhaps a guide about phoenixes or centaurs. Other tales about dragons could be collected to create a class anthology- and all decorated with illustrations inspired by those in this book!
The series includes other guides- one for mermaids and one for unicorns- and I look forward to seeing what comes next!
The Secret Lives of Dragons
Prof Zoya Agnis, illustrated by Alexander Utkin
Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1838741174
Out in paperback on the 7th September 2023
The Magic of Forests
Join Mimi cat as she leads the reader into the fascinating world of forests, learning about their secrets and their treasure. Starting by defining what a forest is and looking at the differences between woodlands, forests and jungles, the author then introduces the reader to the different types of forests which can be found. There is much to discover on each page!
The beauty and magic of trees, the abundance of nature which they sustain and the wonderful benefits they offer people are all celebrated in this lovely book. There is plenty of scientific information for those with a passion for finding answers- the detailed index and glossary making location information very easy- but the book also explores some of the fabulous folklore and fairy tales told about these magical places.
Each spread is beautifully illustrated with the information presented in accessible sections with clear side headings to tempt and guide. Quizzes and ideas for activities add yet more to what is a really lovely, fascinating book.
The Magic of Forests:
A Fascinating Guide to Forests Around the World
Vicky Woodgate
DK ISBN: 9780241625880
You can read my review of ‘The Magic of Seasons’ here.
Lessons from our Ancestors
Every object tells a story.
This is a fascinating book which seeks to offer a fresh perspective on people from the past. From the introduction to the ‘Ask an Archaeologist’ section at the end, the author’s enthusiasm for her subject is both evident and inspiring, making the book an enjoyable and informative read.
It also seeks to give readers a different perspective, ‘casting a spotlight on forgotten histories and misrepresented stories’. The story of each of the civilisations included here are considered in the light of the evidence yielded by the objects that have been discovered there. In the ancient city of Çatalhöyük, men and women held equal status indicated by evidence about their diet and lifestyles whilst Mohenjo-Daro, one of the largest cities of the ancient Indus Valley Civilisation, was a sustainable city, constructed on a grid plan, with an underground sewage system. There is so much to learn and explore here!
The book also addresses how racist and sexist views have affected how the past has been both presented and viewed, challenging stereotypes and encouraging readers to ask their own questions about the past. Each spread is fully illustrated, complementing the text and supporting comprehension, as well as making it a very attractive book. This is sure to inspire future generations of archaeologists, igniting interest in past civilisations and people beyond those explored in the school curriculum. Essential reading!
Lessons from our Ancestors:
Equality, Inclusivity and Sustainability in the Ancient World
Raksha Dave, illustrated by Kimberlie Clinthorne-Wong
Magic Cat ISBN: 978-1913520946
Please Don’t Bite Me
Buzzing with irritating insects, this fascinating book allows the reader to find out more about mosquitoes, lice, wasps, cockroaches, fleas, and bedbugs, creatures which have annoyed people for centuries. Starting with an introduction which defines what an insect is and explains what entomologists (those who study insects) are, the book then investigates each insect in turn.
From their appearance to their life cycles, the book offers a detailed look each of these insects, including their relationship with humans through the ages. I have only ever once seen a cockroach when in Greece- and am even more determined never to see one again having read the information in the book! Despite all their irritating and disgusting ways, the author manages to sound quite fond of them, certainly piquing the reader’s curiosity!
Owen Davey has worked his magic with the illustrations once more, making the book as visually appealing as it is fascinating. Each spread is beautifully presented, colourful and engaging, making this a very tempting and informative read with a glossary, index and content making it useful for locating information. An excellent read!
Please Don’t Bite Me: Insects that Buzz, Bite and Stong
Nazzy Pakpour, illustrated by Owen Davey
Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1838740900
Ten-Word Tiny Tales
There are some books which are an absolute gift to teachers- and this is one of them! Captured in these pages in endless inspiration and story-telling joy, showing how creative ideas can bloom from any tiny seed. Each spread shows a ten-word story, brilliantly illustrated by one of the ‘friends’ who helped Joseph create this book. Those ten words are enough to open a world of possibilities, expanded by the picture as the reader seeks to explain, develop and satisfy their curiosity about what is happening. Some are sinister, some surreal, all are sure to ignite the imagination, develop conversation and inspire the next generation of storytellers!
One of my favourites is Mariachiara Di Giorgio’s illustrations for the tale: We buried her on Wednesday, again on Thursday, and Friday. So many details to enjoy and explore- and what a tale to tell! Shuan Tan’s contribution shows a family decorating their son’s skull whilst Dena Seiferling’s is full of beautifully mysterious butterfly-like creatures. It is a complete joy to explore each spread, both for the tale and for the illustration.
Advice from Joseph is included at the end of the book to inspire readers to create their own ten-word tales, to have a go at illustrating and to develop the tales included in the book into longer stories. As a teacher, I have used Chris Van Allsburg’s very wonderful ‘The Mysteries of Harris Burdick’ with classes many times, which always results in fabulous writing, full of imagination and energy and I can see this collection being every bit as exciting and inspiring. The variety of illustrators used here means a wider range of styles, perhaps appealing to a wider range of readers- something for everyone!
Just wonderful!
Ten-Word Tiny Tales
Joseph Coelho and Friends
Walker Books ISBN: 978-1529502688
Crookhaven: The Forgotten Maze
Gabriel Avery is returning to Cookhaven for his second year, looking forward to seeing his friends, Amira, the Brothers Crimm, Ade and Ede, and Penelope Crook. But Penelope is far from friendly as her father and the co-headmaster, Caspian Crook, has forbidden her to see them or work as part of their crew. An almost impossible challenge, diving classes and the hidden Maravel’s Maze mean that Gabriel and his crew have a tough year ahead!
I really enjoyed the first ‘Crookhaven’ book which brilliantly set the scene for more adventures to come. Gabriel Avery is a very appealing character. Despite his criminal tendencies, his warm heart, loyalty and ability to see the best in others make him a very rounded, likeable lad. His devotion to his Grandma, the lady who has raised him, and his desire to see her happily settled is really lovely so it is not surprising that his kindness extends to others. Each member of the ‘crew’ brings their own strengths and their personalities complement each other, showing how much stronger they are when they work as a team.
The plot moves along at a very satisfying pace with teachers and pupils alike being pleasingly developed to create an engaging boarding school story with plenty of action and excitement. It ends with another dilemma for Gabriel which will keep readers on tenterhooks waiting for the next instalment! A great read!
Crookhaven: The Forgotten Maze
J J Arcanjo
Hodder ISBN: 978-1444965759
You can read my review of ‘Crookhaven: The School for Thieves’ here.
Perfectly Imperfect
When Maria accidentally damages her brother’s best book, he is furious with her and Maria is heartbroken. Luckily, Bea is on hand to show her how things can be perfectly imperfect, with imperfections adding to the beauty of something and adding to the memories connected with it. Reassured, Maria decides to mend Robbie’s book and they settle down to read together.
Beauty is all around us, yet we are constantly told that to be beautiful something must be perfect. This gorgeous picture book allows readers to explore the idea that things can be ‘perfectly imperfect’- a scar might carry a story, a crack in the pavement yields a flower- and encourages everyone to look again at the world around them, appreciating flaws and apparent defects. In our society, we are so quick to throw things away, discarding and demeaning anything seen as less than perfect so this is brilliant for encouraging discussion and reflection. Something mended becomes unique, full of memories, full of love.
The Japanese practice Kintsugi, a process of repairing ceramics, traditionally with lacquer and gold, which highlights and enhances any breaks or chips, making a work of art out of something which might otherwise have been thrown away. This story captures that philosophy, making it relevant and inspiring. The illustrations capture the warmth of the relationship between Maria and both Bea and Robbie beautifully and we loved the antics of their pet cat- there’s a character who deserves a book of their own! This is a very special, thought-provoking book for home and school alike!
Imperfectly Perfect
Perry Emerson, illustrated by Hoang Giang
Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1801044981
Published 7th September 2023
The Silver Road
Rosaleen Darke- Rose- is struggling at her new school. Tormented by Emer McGuire and her ‘fan club’ for being a scholarship pupil, Rose is also still grieving the loss of her Mamó, who she misses desperately. Taking the long way home from school, however, has the benefit of taking her past the shops of Gracie and Nellie with whom she has developed a friendship.
Unable to sleep one night, Rose hears noises and finds herself facing an ice giant, who entrusts her with a powerful stone which Rose must keep from falling into the wrong hands. Luckily Gracie and Nellie are not quite what they seem and are able to explain to Rose that she has been chosen as the stone’s guardian. As the Old Magic is weakening, evil is rising and Rose finds herself on a breath-taking quest to protect the Silver Road and the magic than runs through the land.
Well, what a story this is! Any attempt at a summary seems clumsy and cannot possibly capture the essence of this wonderful tale. Drawing on the age-old mythology of Ireland, ‘The Silver Road’ offers the perfect starting point for introducing readers to this wealth of stories whilst appreciating Sinéad’s skill as a storyteller as she adds plenty of imagination and flair of her own. I was captivated from the outset and could not put the book down and since finishing, have been inspired to revisit some of the old tales.
Rose is a brilliant character. Fresh and uncomplicated, she just wants to fit in and do her best. Although she has a loving, supportive family, like many, she doesn’t want to add to their worries by sharing her problems, particularly as her dad’s employer is Emer’s dad. She escapes into her books, but also takes comfort from the friendship she forms with Gracie and Nellie. They are incredible souls, not just because of their magic, but because of the kindness they show- and their love of cake! Catshee, the cat, not cat is possibly my favourite character, however, and shows how skilfully the author blends the traditional and the newly imagined to make a tale of wonder.
‘The Silver Road’ whispers to the reader of so many things- the importance of our environment, the magic of the old tales, our connection to the land and to one another, the importance of family, finding the strength to be yourself and have the determination and courage to face things life throws at you. It is a brilliantly crafted tale and I loved it. It would make an excellent guided reading text for the ‘right’ group of children or a gripping class story. So much to love!
The Silver Road Sinéad O’Hart
Piccadilly Press ISBN: 978-1800785090
Published 28th September 2023
