Fright Bite

Club Loser are heading to Neon Perch, the place to go, for a night of celebrating Colette’s 13th birthday. With Songbird Karaoke, Galactic Golf, Battle Karts and a kitty of cash to spend, they are set to have the best night ever! However, as usual, nothing goes to plan and when the friends decide to experience Project Z, the brand-new, immersive, zombie escape room experience in the basement, they quickly realise that their old adversaries are back with more unpleasant surprises and horrors, including some vicious creatures with a poisonous bite…tick, tock.

A new book from Jennifer Killick is always a celebration- a new ‘Dread Wood’ book doubly so! Each book seems better than the last and although I might have been heard to say that ‘Deadly Deep’ was my favourite, I can now reveal that ‘Fright Bite’ has knocked it off the top spot!

One of the joys of these books is that you really feel part of ‘Club Loser’ and so are fully invested in the adventure before it starts. This unlikely group of friends prove that opposites attract and show the importance of getting to know others. Each of the gang is unique, each is flawed, but they really bring out the best in each other!

The story starts calmly enough. There is plenty of banter and if you haven’t read the previous books (why haven’t you read the previous books?), you quickly build a picture of each personality, including the very loveable Mr C, and the dynamic of the group. Having initially lulled you into a (very false) sense of security, Jennifer Killick quickly starts to build tension until the inevitable realisation dawns and the Latchitts are back!

As Club Loser face a series of terrors, culminating in venom-dripping rats controlled by Hickory Dickory Dock, the mixture of tension, humour and action keeps the reader on the edge of their seat, only breathing a sigh of relief in the last few pages when safety and sanity are once more restored. It’s a cracking read- and I can’t wait for the next one!

Dread Wood: Fright Bite

Jennifer Killick

Farshore ISBN: 978-0008657031

You can read my review of ‘Dread Wood’ here, Deadly Deep here Crater Lake here and Crater Lake Evolution here.

The Minute Minders

Stevedore Clipper (Stevie) and her father are fidders, tiny beings who spend their time helping humans. Humans can’t see fidders and there are all sorts of rules governing how fidders are supposed to deal with those they are helping. Stevie isn’t very good with rules, but she is excellent at helping others.

‘The Minute Minders’ is a completely captivating, thoroughly enjoyable read, full of warmth and humour. Having lost her mother and siblings in a terrible accident, Stevie is reluctant to leave her father and go off to boarding school and so begins to accompany him whilst he works as a Truth Revealer. However, Stevie cannot resist ‘helping’ which leads to problems, ending up with them having to leave their home near Linbradan and move to the town of Tassimity where her father has to work as a Minute Minder- a job he is not keen on!

Stevie is a wonderful character. Told from her viewpoint, the story captures the importance of considering how we approach others, how we tackle situations and above all, caring for them. Her curiosity and enthusiasm are infectious and she often notices things which others don’t, recording these as ‘vitally important points’ in her notebook. Her relationship with her father is beautifully captured, full of warmth and love.

Mary Murphy’s world building is brilliant, full of details of the fidders’ world and the role they play in caring for humans. There is plenty of humour in the story which is accompanied by lovely illustrations.

I can’t wait to read more books about these lovely characters!

The Minute Minders Mary Murphy

Pushkin Press ISBN: 978-1782694229

Published 18th January 2024

Twice Upon a Time

The Morrow twins, Merry and Spike, have an unusual connection with time. One born before midnight, one after, they are not only born on different days, but different years, with clocks in the house stopping to mark the time for each. When their mother, an art restorer, takes a job at Fox House, the twins are convinced they are in for a dreary holiday, but they soon find themselves caught up in mysterious happenings and unsolved mysteries which they begin to investigate using their own secret - the power to manipulate time.

I am a huge fan of Michelle Harrison’s books, particularly the ‘Pinch of Magic’ series. The brilliantly developed Widdershins sisters and cleverly drawn, well-imagined locations of these stories make them compelling reading and I was delighted to find that characters and settings are also strengths of ‘Twice Upon a Time’!

The Morrow twins might be identical, but they have very different personalities and tendencies. Merry (Meredith) is a dreamer, full of imagination and a love of words, constantly writing poems whilst Spike (Rose) has a fascination with poisons and as her nickname suggests, a somewhat prickly personality. Since having had meningitis a few years ago, Spike suffers with tinnitus, which affects her greatly, causing the reader to both develop an awareness of, and empathise with, her condition. They make a great team, using their talent occasionally for mischief, but more often to help unravel the mystery surrounding Fox House. Ben Gumbley, who lives at the house, makes an excellent addition to the group and is soon party to their secret.

The plot is perfectly paced, with clues and misdirection along the way, as it builds to a very satisfying conclusion. I have no wish to spoil the story for anyone else so won’t say any more about it, except that it is an excellent read. My only concern is whether there will be any more stories about the Merrow girls- and possibly Ben! It feels to me as if there should me more adventures for them- and yet, the book works perfectly as a stand alone. Perhaps I’m just being greedy!

Twice Upon a Time

Michelle Harrison, illustrated by Natalie Smillie

Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1471197673

You can read my review of ‘A Pinch of Magic’ here, ‘A Sprinkle of Sorcery’ here, ‘A Tangle of Spells’ here and ‘A Storm of Sisters’ here.

The Shape of Rainbows

‘The Shape of Rainbows’ is packed with wealth of poems which are prefect for sharing and performing, savouring and contemplating. There really is something for everyone to be found in these pages, all accompanied by Will Hughes’ witty illustrations.

Classes would have great fun performing poems like ‘Brother versus Sister’ and could easily be inspired to create addition ‘verses’, exploring comical opposites as the siblings bicker or creating their own versions using other opposing voices- perhaps cat and dog! ‘Fright’ is another poem which would work really well as a performance piece, encouraging children to consider the pitch, volume and pace of their performance as well as possible actions and effects they might choose to use! ‘Echo’ is another which would work well like this!

There are so many poems here which would make excellent models to inspire children to create their own poems and plenty which offer food for thought. There are those which help them to explore poetic techniques like ‘Metaphor Man’ and ‘Adam’s Apples’ which uses a mixture of alliteration and tongue twister, but above all the collection shares a love of language and word play which excites the imagination and engages the reader/ listener with the musical possibilities of poetry and the joy of expression through this medium. A must-have for every class and home bookcase!

The Shape of Rainbows

Neal Zetter, illustrated by Will HUghes

Otter-Barry Books ISBN: 978-1915659163

You can read my review of ‘When the Bell Goes’ here and ‘Scared?’ here.

Marnie Midnight and the Moon Mystery

Marnie Midnight is really excited to be starting at Minibeast Academy where she hopes to follow in the footsteps of her heroine, Lunora Wingheart, the famous Moonologist who used to be a pupil there. But, to her disappointment, Marnie soon finds out that nobody believes in moon magic anymore. Determined to get to the bottom of this mystery, Marnie and her new friends, Star and Floyd, decide to search for the truth…

From her introduction, portrait gallery of characters and map of Thimbledown to the end of the story, this new story from Laura Ellen Anderson is a charming, captivating adventure, perfect for fans of her ‘Amelia Fang’ and ‘Rainbow Grey’ series.

The detailed world building is wonderful and there are plenty of mini-beast facts woven into the tale, making this delightful story the perfect starting point for discovering more. Marnie, Floyd and Star are great characters- each personality is well-developed, showing how different natures can complement each other, each bringing their own strengths to a friendship, offering support.

The illustrations are delightful, adding much to the book and sparking imagination and interest. Whether sharing as a class story, a bedtime read or for children to love as an independent read, ‘Marnie Midnight and the Moon Mystery’ is a real joy!

Marnie Midnight and the Moon Mystery

Laura Ellen Anderson

Farshore ISBN: 978-0008591335

Magic Ever After

Bea Black is still enjoying life in Little Spellshire. Things are much easier now her dad knows she is a witch-in-training and is happily in a relationship with Taffy Tallywick. But something’s up- her father seems obsessed with learning magic and Taffy is distracted by some Very Important Thinking which she has to do. Finally, Bea learns that they want to get married (there was kissing) which is wonderful, but means there is much to do…

Full of magical mishaps, strange situations and hilarious happenings, this is such an entertaining and engaging series! Bea is a delightful character, who is easy to identify with. Keen to do well, fit in and have fun, she makes mistakes and can be overly anxious about things, but is full of good heart and determination and is surrounded by good friends (and a loving dad!), meaning everything comes right in the end.

The story is presented in a diary format, highly illustrated and in easily read sections, offering a read which is both achievable and enjoyable and reassuringly familiar to those who have read the other books in the series. The focus of each shifts slightly, keeping the reader interested in Bea’s world and showing the importance of her home and school lives. In this story, more is learned about activities at school with a game of GO with Cats and the very entertaining Eggy Day where each egg delivers a truthbomb, but there is also plenty about her homelife as the wedding approaches and everything finally comes together for the perfect day.

A fabulous mix of magic and mischief, family and friendship, ‘Magic Ever After’ is a great addition to the series!

Diary of an Accidental Witch: Magic Ever After

Perdita and Honor Cargill, illustrated by Katie Saunders

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1788956109

You can read my review of ‘Ghostly Getaway’ here.

Doughnuts, Thieves and Chimpanzees

In his second collection of poetry, Alex Wharton (Children’s Laureate Wales 2023-2025) offers the same mixture of playful humour and poetic joy that made ‘Daydreams and Jellybeans’ so popular with adults and children alike. This collection has the added element notes in which Alex explains some of the styles and techniques he has used, encouraging everyone to have a go themselves- and above all, enjoy poetry! The book has a wonderfully interactive quality- Alex speaks directly to the reader, sharing his ideas, his love of music, creating poetry and songs, supported by illustrations by Rhi Smith.

And then, of course, there are the poems themselves! There are poems here crying out to be performed with others, with a partner or independently. There are those which would make great models to inspire the reader’s own creations. There are poems to giggle over and poems to ponder. For teachers, this collection offers so much support whether the teacher is confident with and experienced at teaching poetry or nervous and new to the (joyful!) task.

‘Doughnuts, Thieves and Chimpanzees’ is an essential addition to any poetry shelf!

Doughnuts, Thieves and Chimpanzees

Alex Wharton, illustrated by Rhi Smith

Firefly Press ISBN: 978-1915444585

You can read my review of ‘Daydreams and Jellybeans’.

Diamond Jack: Your Magic or Your Life

Bramble and her sister, Lena, have recently lost their parents and now live with their grandfather, helping out in his shop, ‘Mr Browning’s Emporium of Strange and Magical Things’. Left in charge, she and her best friend, Ernest, who lives next door with his mother at the dressmaker’s shop, discover a hidden box in the forbidden shed at the bottom of the garden. Inside is a red highwayman’s mask which Bram feels compelled to try on- and then can’t take off. When her Grandfather is taken, Bram discovers that the mask transforms her into the famous highwayman, Diamond Jack and she is thrust into a mission full of action, adventure- and magic!

A riotous romp of a read, ‘Diamond Jack’ has much to recommend it! The story bounces along at a pleasing pace with plenty of action and much to discuss. Bram is a great character. Thrust into a role which she did not choose, she overcomes her fears and rises to the challenges thrown at her, proving she is capable and resilient. Ernest is a joy and their friendship is really well captured and believable.

Humour is woven through the story- sure to appeal to any adults sharing the story as well as children. Mrs Kipling, for example, ‘does make exceedingly good cakes’! But the story also offers plenty do discuss. There are links to other stories like the Robin Hood legends which might be explored, research about real highwaymen and their exploits as well as considering how people ‘mask’ themselves sometimes just as Bram adopted the persona of Diamond Jack when wearing the mask. Family secrets might also be a topic of conversation, considering why certain characters chose to act as they did and the consequences of these choices.

However, above all this magical story offers an action-packed adventure- with the potential of more to come!

Diamond Jack: Your Magic or Your Life

Anna Rainbow

Chicken House ISBN: 978-1913322724

Jane Eyre

Being a huge fan of the Bronte sisters and their work (and member of the Bronte society!), I approach any re-telling of their work, whether book or film, with the greatest caution. And yet, I discovered ‘Jane Eyre’ through reading an abridged version of the book which I found on the classroom shelves when I was about 7 and was instantly captivated so the power of a carefully abridged, skilfully written classic should not be underestimated!

In a book which is about a quarter of the length of the original, Patrice Lawrence has managed to maintain both the atmosphere of the book and Jane’s character. Echoes of Charlotte Bronte’s original text can be heard (…with nipped fingers and toes, and a heart saddened by the chidings of Bessie the nurse…with cold-nipped fingers and toes to the grumbling complaints of the nursemaid, Bessie) capturing the appalling treatment of the young Jane at the hands of her aunt and cousins, the cruelty of Miss Scratcherd, the awful conditions of Lowood Institution, using the present tense to create a sense of immediacy and tension.

But ‘Jane Eyre’, like many books of this period, is full of references, comments and language which make uncomfortable reading for modern eyes. The appalling treatment of, and language used around, mental illness, the descriptions of darker-skinned people, Rochester’s treatment of Jane as well as the child cruelty and sexism have all been skilfully managed by Patrice Lawrence. Some things- John Reed, for example, ‘berates his mother for the darker tone of her skin which is similar to his own’- remain whilst others have been removed.

I finished the book satisfied that I had read ‘Jane Eyre’, not frustrated and furious as I often do! Not only does this version serve as a possible stepping stone to the original, it is also sure to support many for whom the original- in both length and language- is too much, allowing those readers to experience Jane’s story. Reader, I enjoyed it. (Sorry- couldn’t help it!)

Jane Eyre

Charlotte Bronte, abridged by Patrice Lawrence

Walker Books ISBN: 978-1529520415

Time Travelling with a Tortoise

Al Chaudhury has successfully travelled back in time and saved his father’s life. So, everything is back to the way Al thinks it should be…only somehow it isn’t. And then an accident leaves Grandpa Byron struggling to remember things, forcing Al to travel in time once more and leaving someone trapped in the past and a pre-historic tortoise in the present. Al must somehow rescue his friend from the past and save the future for them all.

Clever and compelling, ‘Time Travelling with a Tortoise’ is a worthy sequel to ‘Time Travelling with a Hamster’! Told in a chatty, engaging style, the reader feels as if they had never left Al’s company and yet, those who have not read TTWaH will be able to enjoy this just as much as those that have.

Grandpa Byron is as charming and unique as ever and his relationship with Al wonderfully highlights the role which grandparents can play in the lives of their grandchildren. In his new ‘old’ life, Grandpa Byron seems to be the one constant for Al, making the accident all the more shocking. Unable to piece together events which have led to his friendship with Paulie MacFaddyen, nephew of his arch nemesis Macca, also causes complications- and encourages the reader to look beyond preconceptions and first appearances.

There is so much to enjoy in this wonderful story that it is hard to put down. Teachers will enjoy reading this aloud to their classes as much as the children will enjoy listening to it. It is sure to encourage much conversation- about time travel and much more! Highly recommended!

Time Travelling with a Tortoise

Ross Welford

Harper Collins ISBN: ‎ 978-0008544775

Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.

You can read my review of ‘Time Travelling with a Hamster’ here, ‘The Monkey Who Fell from the Future’ here and Into the Sideways World here.

The Code of Life

All About Genes, DNA, Genetic Engineering, and Why You Are the Way You Are

Completely fascinating, ‘The Code of Life’ had me absorbed from start to finish! This is not a subject I have any great knowledge of, or (if I am honest) any real interest in, and yet, I found myself actually understanding and enjoying learning about genetics and DNA. And that’s something I never thought would happen.

Starting with the work of Gregor Mendel, an Austrian monk, whose early experiments with pea plants led to his being known as ‘the father of genetics’, the book clearly explains the theory of genetics, what genes are and the importance of DNA- all in a manner which is easily understood and supported by examples, diagrams and illustrations. The work of different scientists and their discoveries is explored, but the book makes it clear that there is still so much more to learn, encouraging the reader to think about the possibility of solving future puzzles. Issues like cloning are also explored, with the example of Dolly the sheep used to consider the debate around this subject.

A fascinating read for anyone who is interested, ‘The Code of Life’ also supports the KS3 Genetics and evolution National Curriculum statements. Its clear explanations, the engaging style and tone of the writing and the plentiful illustrations which support the text make it an invaluable, accessible resource. There is even a page encouraging readers to conduct their own research, offering ideas for things to try- and the answers are also included!

The Code of Life: All About Genes, DNA, Genetic Engineering,

and Why You Are the Way You Are

Carla Häfner, illustrated by Mieke Scheier

Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1838741785

Pirate Academy: New Kid on Deck

In 2507, a new age of piracy has arrived. Water levels have risen and the Pirate Federation controls the oceans as well as running nine schools around the world- Pirate Academies. Each Academy will only take 15 students a year, the finest from the most famous, ferocious pirate families. Jacoby Blunt and Jasmine Peacock are two of the students in Barracuda Class, taking lessons in Knots, Sailing and Combat. But these are dangerous times to be a pirate and when Jacoby’s roommate, Wing, is removed from the school by his parents, a new student, Neo Splice, mysteriously appears to take his place. With him, he seems to bring peril from the outside world and Barracuda Class find themselves facing a new and very deadly enemy.

I have huge affection for Justin Somper’s ‘Vampirates’ series as my son read these avidly and we regularly went to hear Justin speak at festivals. These books were also really popular in school and we were delighted to be able to organise an event for ‘Talk Like a Pirate Day’ in 2015 with Justin and Huw Powell. With this in mind, I was very excited to discover that Justin had written the first in a new series and I was not disappointed!

‘New Kid on the Deck’ is engaging from the outset as the reader is quickly drawn into the lives of Jacoby, Jasmine, Neo and their classmates, their lives at the Pirate Academy, the importance of their ‘pedigree’ and the dangers lurking in the outside world. The characters- students and their teachers- are well developed, full of the flaws and complexities which make them engaging and encourage the reader to feel invested in their adventures.

Without wishing to give too much away, the plot concerned with family, friendship, loyalty, lies, adventure and ambition is really well-paced and its conclusion offers surprises and great potential for the future of the series. ‘New Kid on the Deck’ is sure to be as popular as the Vampirates books and will be a welcome addition to bookshelves everywhere!

Pirate Academy: New Kid on the Deck

Justin Somper, illustrations by Teo Skaffer

UCLan ISBN: 978-1916747111

Published 7th March 2024

Find Peace in a Poem

Things got very crazy at the end of last year so I took a couple of weeks off from reviewing…which means I am very behind in sharing all the lovely books I have been reading! However, new year and all that so let’s start 2024 with this gem!

‘Find Peace in a Poem’ is the latest in a series of poetry books from Little Tiger, joining ‘My Heart is a Poem’, ‘Courage in a Poem’ and ‘Our Earth is a Poem’. Making a lovely collection, each book is beautifully produced, with thoughtful details like biographies of each poet and illustrator and a name plate with the dedication ‘Words of calm for…’. Four illustrators have contributed to the collection with their differing styles perfectly complementing the poems.

Like a spell, poetry wields the right words at the right time and has the power to transform us.

Whoever wrote the book’s introduction obviously loves poetry as much as I do and has created the perfect starting point for the collection. As usual with this series, there is comment at the end of the book explaining that the poems have been presented in their original dialect as the poems are ‘rooted in the places they were dreamt up and written’.

The poems have been chosen with great care, each one offering a sense of calm and joyful optimism, encouraging the reader to focus on and appreciate the small things in life, the moments that create their days, the joy in the world around them. ‘A Lesson from the Trees’ by Nikita Gill reflects on the longevity of the trees around us and the constant, listening presence they offer. Kate Wakeling’s ‘The Ink Cure’ suggests a way of combatting feelings of sadness and letting your troubles go whilst ‘Over the Weather’ by Naomi Shihab Nye offers calming thoughts. Each poem is a joy!

The anthology is perfect for sharing at home or in school with many of the poems offering excellent models or starting points for children to develop their own poetic ideas. Zaro Weil’s ‘Hide and Seek’, for example, might inspire children to concentrate on and describe the sounds that they can hear in different locations as well as the importance of finding those quiet moments. ‘My Inner Weather Report’ by Georgia Heard is the perfect starting point for supporting children with identifying and sharing their feelings, recognising all the different moods and emotions which everyone experiences. And, of course, Kit Wright’s ‘The Magic Box’ - a perennial favourite- is a magical way of gathering all the special sights, sounds, people, places and imaginative details which make life so rich and joyful.

The perfect place to start 2024- happy New Year!

Find Peace in a Poem

Mandy Coe, Jack Prelutsky, Pat Mora, Kate Wakeling, James Carter, Nikita Gill, Joseph Coelho, Valerie Bloom, Amina Jama, Michael Rosen, Sue Hardy-Dawson, Mary Ann Hoberman, Georgia Heard, Sophia Thakur, Sanah Ahsan, Elizabeth Acevedo, Kit Wright, Naomi Shihab Nye and Zaro Weil

Illustrated by Annalise Barber, Mariana Roldan, Masha Manapov and Nabila Adani.

Published 4th January 2024

You can read my review of ‘My Heart is a Poem’ here, ‘Courage in a Poem’ here and ‘Our Earth is a Poem’ here.

I Love You More

As mum settles Rae down at bedtime, she tries to tell her just how much she loves her- more than tiny tree frogs love to leap, more than penguins love waddling in the snow, more than dolphins love the boundless sea- more than words can say.

Gorgeous illustrations and beautiful lyrical text combine to make a wonderful snuggle-up story to share with the ones you love. A joy to read aloud, the gentle rhyme follows a comforting pattern which children will quickly be able to join in with- and enjoy creating their own images to express their feelings. It offers the reassurance of unconditional, never-ending love from adult to child- but with Rae getting the last word!

There is a dream-like quality to the illustrations yet these lovely images are sure to inspire children to find out more about the creatures they show.

‘Guess How Much I Love You’ was one of my son’s favourite books when he was little and ‘I Love You More’ offers readers the same cosy feeling, the same sense of shared love, the same precious memories that I will never forget from our bedtime- or anytime- stories. Another winner, Clare- congratulations!

I Love You More

Clare Helen Welsh, illustrated by Kevin and Kristen Howdeshell

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1839944192

You can read my review of ‘Sunny Side Up’ here and ‘Never Ever Ever Ask a Pirate to a Party’ here.

Juniper’s Christmas

When Juniper’s mum goes missing, she seeks help from Niko, who lives in her local London park surrounded by Christmas trees and reindeer that can fly. She suspects he is actually Santa and when she accidentally gets exposed to North Pole magic, Juniper finds that Skara, a young reindeer, has imprinted on her, forming a close bond between the two. With the park threatened by local councillor, Dafydd Carnegie and a Santa who has given up on Christmas, can Juniper find her mum and bring back the magic of the festive season?

There is so much to love in this story that no synopsis of it could possibly do it justice! My son (and I!) loved the ‘Artemis Fowl’ series, thoroughly enjoying the quirky originality and humour of the books and Eoin Colfer has managed to sprinkle the same magic on this book.

A book with a grieving, disaffected Father Christmas who has stopped fulfilling his duties and a mother and daughter bereft at the loss of their husband/ father doesn’t really sound like much of a festive treat yet not everyone is happy at Christmas - a time when the world assumes everyone is. Juniper’s much-loved father loved celebrating Christmas and Juniper herself is a Christmas baby, making the season all the more poignant now that he is no longer there. The story also includes Duchess, one of the homeless people who shelter in the park and who Niko has been offering help and support to and who are now under threat from the machinations of Carnegie and his criminal ally, Trude Madden, who are quite happy to destroy donations for homeless people.

However, the story is peppered with humour, hope and happiness, reflecting on the true meaning of Christmas, offering plenty to discuss and plenty to enjoy. ‘Be the change’, empathise with and care for others, the importance of family (real and ‘adopted’) all ring clear through the inventive, magical technicalities of the workings of Christmas. ‘Juniper’s Christmas’ would make an excellent class story - sure to inspire lots of writing and creative ideas- with many drama opportunities and much to talk about. The book would also make an excellent film..!

Juniper’s Christmas

Eoin Colfer, illustrated by Chaaya Prabhat

Harper Collins ISBN: 978- 0008475536

The Secret of Helmersbruk Manor: A Christmas Mystery

Flora and her mother are spending the Christmas holidays in a cottage found in the grounds of a decaying mansion in he seaside town of Helmersbruk. It’s their first Christmas without Flora’s father and things are strange and difficult for them so her mother thought the break would do them good. However, Helmersbruk is dark and rainy and when they arrive at the Gatekeeper’s Cottage, the gate seems locked and no one is around apart from Fridolf, who lives next door in the Washhouse. But as Flora explores the Manor grounds, her imagination runs wild and she comes to love it there. Strange whispers, mysterious porcelain figures and the occasional appearance of a boy called Egon increase her fascination with the place and she starts to uncover a fascinating mystery which links the past and the present.

The story is told in twenty-four chapters, making it perfect for reading as an advent book in the countdown to Christmas Day- but I challenge anyone to be able to read it like this! The story is so compelling and absorbing that it is impossible to put down! Carefully placed clues, engaging characters and evocative writing make this a fabulous read- one which is sure to be enjoyed again and again despite the mystery having been solved!

Each chapter beings with a black and white illustration, adding to the atmosphere of the story. Flora is drawn to the Mansion and there are shivery moments, carefully placed to intrigue and pique the reader’s interest and imagination as the Manor’s secrets are revealed. Flora is reeling from the loss of her father, struggling with the rejection of her once-best-friend, Johanna, and the bullying of the horsey girls at school and Helmersbruk Manor offers her peace and a feeling of belonging. She learns to trust again, finding friendship as she strives to save the Manor from a threatened re-development as a hotel complex.

An excellent story, ‘The Secret of Helmersbruk Manor’ is a brilliant, gripping story- perfect for Christmas, but a great read at any time of year!

The Secret of Helmersbruk Manor: A Christmas Mystery

Eva Frantz, translated by A A Prime, illustrated by Elin Sandstrom

Pushkin Press ISBN: 978-1782694182

Peace on Earth

Poetic text and gorgeous illustrations combine perfectly to tell the beautifully expressed, deeply poignant message of this book. Two children meet and set off on a journey through glorious countryside. A wolf cub joins them as they reach a riverbank and meet another child in a boat who joins in their games as they explore and discover the wonders of the world. When they reach an island, however, discord begins, leading to a furious argument. Bravely, the girl from the boat seeks to intervene and brings the group back together again as they head home in harmony.

From the same perfect pairing which blessed us with ‘Rain Before Rainbows’, ‘Peace on Earth’ is a stunning book, not just for Christmas, but for any time of year. A note at the beginning says the book was inspired by words from Luke 2:14 in the King James version of the Bible- Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men- but the theme here is a universal, all-encompassing one of love, understanding, empathy, tolerance and forgiveness. The text- really a poem- is a joy to read aloud with its beautiful cadence, the directness of the words conveying such intense feelings of joy, anger, sorrow and hope.

David Litchfield’s artwork enhances these words and is turn, enhanced by them. Playful happy scenes with dappled light through trees, sun sparkling on water or the many beauties of the natural world capture the harmony and ‘peace’ as the children play and explore together.

Peace on earth…Let friends be found!

Let laughter ring, let joy abound…

These scenes contrast with darker skies and looming shadows, the furious reds of volcanic eruption and evils serpents which appear as discord engulfs the children, dividing them. Once again, the vivid illustrations speak volumes whilst the text is clear and direct-

But sometimes words can hurt…and sting.

And fires rage and burn within.

It’s books like this one which make me pause and reflect on how lucky readers are to have them. The thought and personal investment in the work from both author and illustrator is a real gift, offering a book which is not only beautiful, but helps to untangle and acknowledge the complex range of emotions we experience - the good and the bad- and to offer resolution, hope, a way forward- this really is not just for Christmas!

As you might have guessed, I absolutely love this one and cannot recommend it highly enough for everyone, everywhere. ‘Peace on Earth’ is absolutely what we need right now.

Peace on Earth

Smriti Halls, illustrated by David Litchfield

Walker Books ISBN: 978-1529507942

You can read my review of ‘Rain Before Rainbows’ here.

Stepfather Christmas

Harper, Will and mum have always managed on their own, with mum going as ‘full-on for Christmas as her budget will allow’. So when mum announces that this year her boyfriend, Nick, will be joining them, it’s a bit of a shock. He seems nice, but Harper can’t help noticing that Christmassy things happen whenever he’s around. Convinced he’s actually Father Christmas, she is determined to uncover the truth…

Subtitled ‘A Festive Countdown in 25 Chapters’, ‘Stepfather Christmas’ is a wonderfully charming and humorous festive treat, perfect for sharing a chapter a night in the run up to Christmas Day. The idea of a family read each day of Advent is a joy - when my son was little, we used to read a festive picture book each day- and a lovely way to bring everyone together. The chapters are the perfect length and the characters are wonderfully engaging.

Jovial and kindly, Nick works with the reindeer at the petting zoo, makes the perfect hot chocolate and seems to receive an awful lot of post. As the clues mount up. Harper becomes increasingly suspicious that he is indeed Father Christmas in spite of Will’s scepticism when she tries to discuss it with him. Her doubts and anxieties about Nick becoming part of their tight-knit little family will resonate with many children in a similar situation whilst the mystery about his identity brings plenty of festive fun!

Whether read day-by-day or consumed in one sitting, ‘Stepfather Christmas’ is a delightful, thoroughly engaging read!

Stepfather Christmas L P Lapinski

Orion ISBN: 978-1510112698

Luna Loves Christmas

Luna loves Christmas. Sometimes she spends it at her dad’s, sometimes at her mum’s, but this year, things are going to be different. This year, they are volunteering to make sure that everyone has a happy Christmas. On Christmas Eve, she helps mum to make deliveries before spending the night with her dad. On Christmas Day, she and Dad arrive at the Town Hall to share dinner with the rest of the family - and anyone who wants to come.

This is a fabulously festive story for so many reasons! As readers have discovered in the previous ‘Luna Loves…’ books, Luna is at the heart of a very loving family. Her parents might not be together, but they work hard to ensure their little girl is happy and secure. She is used to having two Christmases- one with each parent; however, having carefully explained the structure of events so that Luna knows exactly what to expect, this Christmas is going to be focused on sharing with others. As Luna and her mother make the deliveries, Luna gains something from each visit as others share things with them- not expensive gifts, but time and fun- a snowball fight, carol singing, a shared Christmas story (which features as a book within the book!).

Once at her father’s, the two make Christmas biscuits and enjoy the bedtime rituals of Christmas Eve. Christmas Day dawns with presents- ‘some for now, some for later’- but little attention is paid to this. Getting ready for the Christmas dinner with everyone else it is the cookies they baked and the home-made presents which are important. The illustrations convey so much warmth and joy between this little family and between members of the community as they come together. The story really shows Luna having a wonderful Christmas, full of fun and family traditions, but also one of sharing, kindness and inclusion. It is a complete joy and a brilliant addition to this delightful series.

Luna Loves Christmas

Joseph Coelho, illustrated by Fiona Lumbers

Andersen Press ISBN: 978-1839131660

The Christmas Songbook

‘The Christmas Songbook’ is a lovely way of introducing children to some traditional festive favourites. A simple rhyming story about a family of mice preparing for Christmas sets the scene for each song and the lovely illustrations offer plenty to discuss and enjoy.

On each page is a star which, when pressed, plays a jaunty rendition of the opening lines of the carol. A simplified score for each song with the words are included, encouraging young musicians to play and sing along. Children are sure to quickly identify their favourites and perhaps learn some which are new to them!

At the end of the book, there are notes about the history of each song which is a really thoughtful addition, giving an extra insight into the development and origin of the song selection. The book is pleasingly sturdy and only a gentle touch on the stars is needed to play the tune, making them perfect for little fingers.

Perfect for the festive season!

The Christmas Songbook: Sing Along to Eight Classic Carols

Illustrated by Amy Adele

Magic Cat ISBN: ‎ 978-1915569035