Dragon Cat

Perfect for exploring and enjoying at home or at school, ‘Dragon Cat’ is a simply brilliant poetry collection.

There are so many poems here which could be used as models to inspire children- or adults. ‘The Bag of Secrets’, for example, uses a similar structure to ‘The Magic Box’ by Kit Wright, a perennial favourite in schools, and this shows how poets magpie ideas, twist and shape them in their own way, before creating something new. Children could build their own work, using the repetitive lines and use of the senses, working together or independently. ‘When I Blew the Magic Dust’ could be used in a similar way! ‘As a Result’ is another work which lends itself to gathering, exploring and creating linked images and ideas whilst ‘Mysteries’ or ‘Wobbling Rainbows’ put all those questions children love to ask to great use!

A wonderful range of poetic styles and techniques are included- riddles, acrostics, kennings- and the collection is rich in imagery and word play, making the poems not only a joy to read, but perfect for performing and sharing. ‘In the Dragon’s Cave’ (another poem perfect for innovation!) would make a brilliant performance piece as would ‘Coming Out of Hibernation’- and who wouldn’t enjoy performing ‘Silent Poem to be Read Aloud’!

Many of the poems have additional notes, often referencing the inspiration behind them, leading to further learning. ‘There’s a Lobster on the Phone’ could lead to children investigating the work of Salvador Dali whilst ‘The Planets’ could introduce them to the work of Holst.

There is plenty of humour here as well, enhanced by the energetic line drawings of Tom Morgan-Jones. Whether to promote discussion, inspire, enthuse or entertain, this is an essential addition to any poetry collection!

Dragon Cat

Pie Corbett, illustrated by Tom Morgan-Jones

Otter- Barry Books ISBN: 978-1915659675

Myths of China

I have long been fascinated by Chinese history, its myths legends and culture- so much so that it was where we went for our honeymoon! Part of DK’s ‘Meet the Gods’ series, ‘Myths of China’ offers a fantastic introduction to this complex mythology, making the stories accessible and enjoyable for younger readers.

Following the same format as the other books in the series, the stories are gathered into different sections, in this case Beginnings, Magical Creatures, Journeys and Adventures, Love and Friendship and About the Myths. In each section, pages of additional information about key figures and events are scattered between the myths, deepening the reader’s understanding and adding much to their enjoyment of the book.

The book is beautifully illustrated throughout with colourful pictures both framing the stories and drawing attention to key figures. Focus pages on different gods and goddesses not only have the illustrator’s image, but also additional information about them and the role they play.

A note from the author at the end of the book makes the nature of these tales clear and admits to having used some creative licence in their re-telling, making an excellent point to start discussions with children about the similarities and differences between versions of the stories. Comparing and contrasting these myths with those of other cultures also enriches and deepens children’s understanding beyond the limits of the curriculum.

An absorbing and entertaining read!

Myths of China

Xiaobing Wang, illustrated by Katie Ponder

DK ISBN: 978-0241664766

You can read my review of ‘Celtic Myths’ here and ‘Egyptian Myths’ here.

A World of Cats

I love most animals, but I have always been fascinated by felines and have shared my home - and my heart- with many cats over the years. In her introduction, Carlie Sorosiak says her first word was ‘kitty’; mine was ‘Sarah’ (or an approximation!), the name of our blue-cream Persian!

‘A World of Cats’ is perfect for cat-lovers like me, but also makes an absorbing read for anyone! Starting with the development of cats as we know them today, the book then considers the similarities and differences between big cats like lions with house cats. After a look at how they became domesticated, the book explores all aspects of a cat’s life and habits. The information is presented in a light-hearted, chatty style, making it accessible and easy to read as well as engaging!

Celebrating cats in history, the book looks at their role in ancient Egypt and tales of cats from the past as well as their place in the present- including Larry, the Chief Mouser of Number 10 Downing Street! There is so much to discover and enjoy about our feline friends and the contributions they make to our daily lives.

Advice on careers with cats will offer inspiration whilst guidance about what to do if you should find a stray cat or if you feel you could offer a cat a ‘forever home’ will help readers to care for any cats they might come across. A treasure trove of cat facts, stories, advice and information, ‘A World of Cats’ is essential reading!

A World of Cats

Carlie Sorosiak, illustrated by Luisa Uribe

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805136132

You can read my review of ‘A World of Dogs’ here

Hank meets Frank

Hank the goose can be a little bit objectionable- that means bad-mannered and rude- at times. However, he can also be good when he tries which is really important today as his sweet little cousin, Frank, is coming to play. However, cousin Frank might not be as lovely as everyone believes leading to a little cousin-ly rivalry!

Like ‘Hank Goes Honk’, ‘Hank Meets Frank’ is a wonderfully funny story which both children and adults will love to share again and again!

Although Frank might appear sweet and innocent, he is full of mischief and soon starts making trouble for Hank. But Hank ups the ante and soon things get out of control as they try to get one up on each other. The illustrations are bursting with humour and readers will enjoy spotting each prank until the final spread where they are pulled into the action! Whether reading with a class or snuggled up with someone special, the story will have everyone giggling- and perhaps plotting a few pranks of their own.

The story also offers the opportunity for discussing how quickly things can get out of hand if ‘jokes’ are taken to excess! In the end of this book, the devious duo join forces, but these things can often escalate and cause problems.

Colourful, attractive illustrations and comic narration combine to make this a real treat!

Hank Meets Frank

Maudie Powell-Tuck, illustrated by Duncan Beedie

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1838918552

You can read my review of Hank Goes Honk here.

A Poem for Every Question

‘A Poem for Every Question’ is a thought-provoking collection of poems which answer a myriad of intriguing questions accompanied by bright, energetic illustrations.

The poems are lively and engaging as well as informative, using word play and imagery as they answer questions such as ‘Why do some animals have pouches?’, ‘Why do clouds float'?’, ‘Why do people hug?’ and ‘What is the world’s oldest instrument?’. Additional information is given under each poem, offering further explanation and facts about the topic, adding a non-fiction element to the book. Speech bubbles in some illustrations suggest other pages, encouraging readers to make links between related poems.

Humour is used both in the poems and pictures to make the work appealing and accessible and children may well be inspired to pose their own questions and write a poem in response- or perhaps challenge someone else to do so! For teachers, the collection is perfect for enriching the curriculum, asking children to consider and discuss the question, before sharing the poem and the explanation. Or the question could be a lesson starter with children working scientifically to answer it, the poem then being shared at the end of the session. ‘What is a primary colour?’ could be linked to an art lesson whereas ‘Could a woman be a gladiator?’ linked to a history lesson about ancient Rome or ‘How did the ancient Egyptians make a Mummy?’ one on Egypt, spreading the joy of poetry across the curriculum!

There are so many poems here which I could mention, but my advice is to get a copy and enjoy them all yourself!

A Poem for Every Question

Brian Bilston, illustrated by Joe Berger

Red Shed ISBN: 978-0008682804

Oh Dear, Look What I Got!

A child sets out to the shop in search of a carrot, but finds he has been sold a parrot. ‘Oh dear, look what I got! Do I want that? No, I do not!’, he cries. Off he goes once more in search of a hat…and comes home with a cat! And so the story continues until an unexpected puppy causes chaos. When the doorbell rings, all the shopkeepers are at the door, bearing the items which has been originally requested, leading to an impromptu party!

‘Oh Dear, Look What I Got!’ is a delightful cumulative tale, full of fun and fabulous illustrations.

The bouncy rhyming text is perfect for reading aloud and children will enjoy predicting what comes next as well as joining in with the repeated refrain of ‘Oh dear, look what I got! Do I want that? No, I do not!’ which comes after every mistaken purchase. The illustrations offer little clues - a bear’s clawed paw poking from one bundle, a forked tongue from another- adding to the fun of predicting what is about to appear. The story lends itself to creating additional trips to the shops, with children adding rhymes of their own before joining in with a chorus of ‘Oh dear, look what I got! Do I want that? No, I do not!’!

The illustrations are wonderful! On each journey to the shops, the child (I chose to use ‘he’- no indication is given as to whether it is a boy or girl) is followed by all the previous creatures acquired and there are so many details to notice and enjoy. The story starts and continues on the end papers, offering children the opportunity to continue the tale with their own ideas about what happens next!

Simply delightful!

Oh Dear, Look What I Got!

Michael Rosen, illustrated by Helen Oxenbury

Walker ISBN: 978-1529510898

My Soul, A Shining Tree

Based on the true story of Indian WWI gunner and recipient of the Victoria Cross, Khudadad Khan, ‘My Soul, A Shining Tree’ is told from different perspectives. Lotte is a Belgian farmgirl whose home is a small farm in the village of Gheluvet, near Ypres in Flanders. Her life shatters when first, her father enlists, and then her mother and uncle are killed when the family tries to escape the Germans. Left alone with her sister, Els, and Michael, a former classmate, the children struggle to survive. Ernst, the grandson of one of her mother’s friends, becomes a German cavalry soldier, joining up whilst underage and facing untold horrors on the battlefield. Khudadad Khan is a gunner fighting with the British Army, lured by false promises as much as a desire to do the ‘right’ thing. The three key figures come together one fateful night under the branches of the olive tree near Lotte’s house which shelters them all.

Jamila Gavin is an outstanding storyteller. ‘Coram Boy’ is a book which I will never forget and the more recent ‘Never Forget You’, which also draws on a true story, is incredibly powerful. In ‘My Soul, A Shining Tree’, she has written a deeply poignant book, focusing on the human stories of war.

The harsh realities of war are not avoided and there are some deeply upsetting passages, reflecting the futility and devastation of conflict. Lotte, Els and Michael become refuges, Ernst has no choice but to return to the battlefield despite being traumatised by his experiences whilst Khudadad Khan, after valiantly holding the ridge at Gheluvet whilst those around him fell, was declared unfit for battle and sent to a hospital in England. The olive tree- a shining tree- is there throughout, watching these three very different victims of war as they try to survive.

Throughout, Jamila Gavin’s beautiful, almost poetic, use of language shines through and the use of the tree, inspired by a line from Sassoon’s poem, ‘Tree and Sky’ offers a sense of continuity and calm through the chaos and carnage of war. The story is full of historic detail, seamlessly woven through the action, enriching knowledge and understanding of these events. Such a powerful and emotive book is a must read.

My Soul, A Shining Tree

Jamila Gavin

Farshore ISBN: 978-0008617189

You can read my review of ‘Never Forget You’ here.

Small Wonder

Tick lives in a secluded cabin at the edge of Ellia with his little brother, Leaf, and their horse, Pebble. Since their Grandfather died, Tick has taken on the responsibility for looking after them all and is trying to prepare for the approaching winter when they see thousands of warships, coming across the water from the Kingdom of Drene, their deadly enemy. Tick knows that he has only six moons to get them to the safely of King’s Keep, a mighty fortress built by the previous ruler of Ellia, Good King Avery. Pursued by a ruthless Hunter, a deadly Drene assassin, they set off on an incredible journey, full of peril, to reach safety.

‘Small Wonder’ is an outstanding adventure story. Pace perfect, it will keep readers on the edge of their seat whilst cheering on Tick, his brother, Leaf, and, of course, the incredible Pebble.

Told from Tick’s perspective, it is very easy to empathise with this young lad as he grieves for the loss of his grandfather and tries to honour his last words. He questions himself, worrying that he is not good enough, not strong enough and yet, at every turn the reader sees him make kind, thoughtful decisions and constantly strive to do his best. Initially, although he loves Leaf, Tick feels the burden of responsibility, but as the story progresses their brotherly bond, their love for one another, deepens and is a joy.

Each character is skilfully developed so much so that even though their Grandfather dies before the book begins, he feels like a real presence, a significant personality in the story. Despite meeting with some unpleasant and evil characters on the way, Tick remains honourable, true to his grandfather’s wishes and so deserving of the fate which awaits him.

There is plenty of tension as the story romps along, but there are also tender moments and touches of humour as well. I love Ross Montgomery’s writing, but this might just be my new favourite of his books! It would make an excellent class story- except I can’t see any class letting the teacher stop reading!

Small Wonder

Ross Montgomery

Walker ISBN: 978-1529526127

You can read my review of ‘Spellstone’ here, Penguin Huddle here and The Thing at 52 here.

The Incredible Pop-Up Frog and other wetland creatures

Beautifully presented and bursting with information, ‘The Incredible Pop-Up Frog and other wetland creatures’ is an absorbing read, with plenty of interactive elements to keep readers engaged.

A mixture of pop-ups, wheels, flaps to lift and tabs to pull allow readers to explore different wetland environments and the creatures which live there. Headings and side headings help readers to locate information which is presented in clearly written, well explained sections. This is one of those books which really has no upper age limit- there is plenty to fascinate everyone.

Teachers could take inspiration from the way food chains have been presented using a wheel which turns to show these links in five different locations, perhaps inspiring children to create their own in this way. Similarly, creating a fold out diagram like the one showing the life cycle of a frog is a far more appealing way of presenting this information than a simple drawing. There is plenty of information here which extends beyond the confines of the science curriculum, developing children’s knowledge and understanding in a very visual way.

As well as focusing in on different locations from around the world and allowing readers to compare and contrast these, the book offers information about the different depth zones- the surface, the middle and the bottom of watery locations. The final page encourages readers to try creating their own wetland environment, something which could be done at home or at school and offer the opportunity for children to work scientifically, carefully observing nature and enjoying the benefits such activities can bring.

The Incredible Pop-Up Frog and other wetland creatures

Ben Hoare, illustrated by Jasmine Floyd

Templar ISBN: 978-1800788718

War Dog

In ‘War Dog’, Tom Palmer tells the true story of Judy, a canine hero of WWII. Known for his carefully researched, thoughtful historical fiction, Judy’s story is presented as a picture book, making it accessible to a younger audience.

Celebrating the courage, loyalty and intelligence of animals who worked alongside service men and women, ‘War Dog’ is a deeply poignant account of Judy’s life as she served on HMS Grasshopper and then was incarcerated as a prisoner of war, sharing the hardships of the crew and bringing them comfort and hope. Forming a special bond with Frank, one of the crew, her devotion to him speaks volumes about the vital role pets play in keeping people happy and healthy- even in the worst circumstances.

Written for a younger audience, the story does not shy away from the fact that Judy was badly treated and that the conditions the prisoners were kept in were harsh and frightening, but presents this in an age appropriate manner. The lovely illustrations support this, bringing Judy’s story to life, showing how she offered comfort, support and loyalty - and was loved in return.

Information at the end of the book offers useful information about Judy and how she was awarded the Dickin Medal as well as the role played by a selection of other animals- who could easily be the focus of future books! One of the many things about Tom Palmer’s skill as a writer of historical fiction is his ability to use great sensitivity and respect when sharing the stories of others, making their stories very ‘real’ for his audience and inspiring them to want to discover more about them. In ‘War Dog’, he has shown that he can do this in picture book form just as well as he does in his novels and is sure to lead younger readers to a love of history just as he does with older ones.

A beautifully written, powerful story- perfect for sharing this- and every- Remembrance Day.

War Dog: The True Story of Judy, hero of WWII

Tom Palmer, illustrated by Carolina Rabei

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702325946

You can read my review of ‘Resist’ here

All Together Now

‘All Together Now’ is a brilliant book of poems by Michaela Morgan, all gathered together for the first time! With a colourful cover by Nick Sharratt, it is a real treasure trove of poetry fun, a must have for all schools- and homes!

The collection bursts with a love of poetry, the joy of word play and the fun which can be had by creating, performing, reading and sharing poetry. Many of the poems are prefaced by a note to the reader, explaining the inspiration behind the piece or offering additional information to support the reader’s understanding. There are also performance and writing prompts throughout which make this collection invaluable to teachers or other adults who are uncertain about how to share poetry with children.

There are so many poems to enjoy here! Any of the poems in the section called ‘Word Play’ could be used as a model for writing, encouraging children to experiment with their own ideas and collaborate on work. ‘Tiger! Tiger!’ could be used not only to introduce children to William Blake’s original, showing how ‘real’ poets use the writing of other people for inspiration, but also as a starting point for discussions about animals in captivity. The poems gathered in the ‘People’ section would be excellent for using to enrich lessons or for sharing at a story time, provoking discussion and deepening learning. There are also many poems which would make brilliant performance pieces!

Many of these poems have been included in different poetry anthologies so it is wonderful to have them all in one handy collection! The poems are, of course, gems to share and enjoy, but the teacher in me quivers with delight at the potential it holds for developing children’s love and understanding of poetry. Nick Sharratt’s much loved and instantly recognisable illustrations are just the icing on the cake!

All Together Now

Michaela Morgan, illustrated by Nick Sharratt

Otter-Barry ISBN: 978-1915659644

The Great Nut Hunt

Squirrel is busy at work, gathering as many nuts as he can and hiding them away to keep them safe. However, he soon forgets where he has put them and sets off to find them. Does Bear have them? Owl? Beaver? It might take a little help from his friends if Squirrel is to find them!

Bouncy rhyming text make ‘The Great Nut Hunt’ a real joy to read aloud, perfect for engaging children!

There is so much to love about this story! Having lost his precious store of nuts, Squirrel suspects that his friends might have taken them and so sneaks into their homes, taking something from each of them. He ends up both disappointed and feeling like he has been a really bad friend. Fortunately, his friends are willing to forgive him and kind enough to offer their friendship and support. Perfect for starting discussions about making mistakes, the story shows the importance of owning up to being wrong and apologising.

The story also offers plenty of curriculum enrichment as it is sure to generate discussions about squirrels hibernation habits and why they need to cache nuts. A note at the end of the book says that millions of trees are planted by squirrels each year in this way! The story might lead to a tree planting event or a walk through some woods, looking for evidence of new growth, perhaps caused by squirrels! They could also look closely at the type of nuts that squirrels bury and then look at the trees/ plants which grow as a result.

Children will love lingering over the illustrations and noticing all the details. It was pointed out to me that Squirrel trying unsuccessfully to shut his front door on his stash of nuts is very like me trying to close my library door! I deny this, of course!

Great fun, this is sure to quickly become a story time favourite at home and at school!

The Great Nut Hunt

Karl Newson, illustrated by Nia Havilliard

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702342165

Dragon Dave the (Not So) Brave

Stuck in a book with an ending which he really doesn’t like, Dragon Dave escapes to the title page. When Prince George finds him, looking sad, Dave explains and together, they set about changing things. Having identified the disappointing parts of the story, they re-write these to Dave’s satisfaction!

‘Dragon Dave the (Not So) Brave’ is a wonderful, fun- filled book, showing people can re-write their own stories and make positive changes.

Loosely based on the story of George and the Dragon, Dave ends up as dragon soup with a squirrely Prince George and the other villagers triumphant. However, together, they create an alternative ending along with some fun edits which alter how Dave is viewed by readers as well as making the story more entertaining! A surprising little twist at the end shows that Dave is not the only one keen to change things!

Teachers could have great fun using this story to challenge children to edit and improve writing, showing how to develop characters and add detail and encouraging them to add imaginative details. Dave and George are lovely personalities and the gorgeous illustrations add much to the story.

A really positive, laugh-out-loud story to share and enjoy!

Dragon Dave the (Not So) Brave

Alex Latimer, illustrated by Phillip Cullen

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702314858

Whoosh!

Having had the most wonderful dreams full of ice cream, Boy wakes and asks Grandad if they can have ice cream for breakfast. Ready to set off at last, they cycle for ages only to find that the ice cream van has sold out. Undeterred, they concoct a plan, create a flying bicycle and whoosh off to Ice-cream Mountain…

The latest book about Boy and Grandad, ‘Whoosh!’ is another joyful story from Sam Usher, celebrating creativity and imagination.

At the heart of these stories is the wonderfully warm relationship between Boy and Grandad as they share their adventures. A gentle sense of camaraderie and contentment permeates the whole story from their trip preparations to their return home. They even have the same taste in red and white stripey socks! Content in each others company, they start and end the day together, looking forward to more shared adventures.

Their adventure- setting off to find ice cream, creating their flying bike, flying to Ice-cream Mountain and avoiding a shower of sprinkles before returning triumphantly with a cargo of ice-cream to share- is a perfect blend of the real and the imagined. Children will enjoy studying the labelled diagrams shown on the endpapers and perhaps designing their own flying machine - or using their imagination to transform a bicycle into something else!

And then there’s the ice cream! What could be nicer than a tasty treat whilst reading, whether experimenting with different flavours and combinations or creating home made ice cream to share and enjoy!

The illustrations are so lovely- full of details- and lend themselves to repeated exploring, with opportunities for children to create their own stories as they enjoy them. Sure to become a firm favourite, ‘Whoosh!’ is a delightful read!

Whoosh!

Sam Usher

Templar ISBN: 978-1800786783

Publishing on the 11th September 2025

How to Catch an Idea

A little girl searches everywhere, trying to catch an idea. As she looks, she asks everyone and everything she meets for help…

‘How to Catch an Idea’ is an absolutely delightful story which celebrates insatiable curiosity and the wonders of wondering!

As the little girl sets out to catch ‘a super-shiny, sparkling, brand-new’ idea, she asks advice from those she meets along the way, offering plenty to discuss and reflect on as the story is shared again and again. Children are sure to have plenty of their own thoughts about where ideas come from and how they should be nurtured and developed. Just as the girl a note book to record her ideas, they might be inspired to start one of their own, allowing them to draw, note, write and scribble as ideas and thoughts come to them.

The lovely language used to explore girl’s search is matched by fabulous illustrations, brimming with humour and things to notice. It is such a joyful book, one which teachers will enjoy sharing with classes, perhaps discussing the way different people answered her questions and perhaps considering how other people might answer- a teacher or sweetshop owner, for example! Children could draw themselves in a swirl of ideas like the one of the little girl or, if they are currently chasing a big idea, leave space to add these as they occur to them!

What a lovely book!

How to Catch an Idea

Forest Xiao

Orchard ISBN: 978-1408366974

The Changeling Child

With a new project threatening both the natural world and the Faerie realm, Saga and Alfred are brought together once again. As a demi-fae, Alfred must journey deep into the magical kingdom, leaving Saga behind to unravel the twelve-year-old mystery of a missing child who is, perhaps, the key to everything.

‘The Changeling Child’ is the sequel to the very brilliant ‘Into the Faerie Hill’- and it is every bit as captivating and magical!

As Mayor Underwood plans to exploit the beauty of the caverns by developing it as a tourist attraction with a restaurant building, viewing platform and cable car, the repercussions for the Faerie and the natural world will be devastating. The story alternates between Alfred and Saga’s viewpoints as each strives to find a way to maintain the balance between worlds. Each shows great bravery, determination and resourcefulness, making them very real, likeable characters, relatable and engaging.

Longing to be the David Attenborough of the Faerie world, Saga’s passion for the natural world and its care is inspiring. Left behind as she is unable to join Alfred as he journeys into the Faerie world, she throws herself into saving the hill from development whilst Alfred learns more about himself, his family and life with the fae.

Family, friendship and belonging are key themes in this compelling story as well as environmental protection and the importance of speaking out about what you believe in. There is such a warmth running through the heart of this story which is bursting with magic and adventure that it is impossible to put down once started! Both this - and ‘Into the Faerie Hill’- would make a very engaging class story, full of things to discuss and enjoy.

A brilliant story!

The Changeling Child

H S Norup

Pushkin Press ISBN: 978-1782695189

You can read my review of ‘Into the Faerie Hill’ here.

Mythical Tales

‘Mythical Tales’ is a wonderful collection of eighteen stories from across the world. Retold in a lively, accessible style, some of these are ancient tales of mythical beings or creatures and some are more modern, so called ‘national myths’, those invented to unite groups of people.

Each tale is beautifully illustrated, capturing a sense of the magic, mystery and excitement of each story and a short introduction from the author sets the scene. The collection feels as if each one has been chosen very carefully, to offer the reader a selection of different stories to those which are often told, making it an essential addition to any bookshelf.

‘The Story of Queen Libuse’, for example, retells a legend from the Czech Republic about a queen with magical powers, a national tale created to make people feel proud of their country. Part of the French epic, ‘The Song of Roland’, ‘Roland’s Breach’ is a story from medieval France, telling of the adventures of a brave knight whilst ‘Perun’s Stolen Cattle’ is a tale from Croatia about the on-going battle between Perun and Veles.

There are so many stories to enjoy in this delightful collection. Additional notes at the end of the book identify the sources used for each retelling, offering readers the possibility of further exploring these myths and seeing how the author has adapted them. It is a beautiful book for both home and school, where it might be used to enrich the curriculum.

Mythical Tales

Laura Sampson, illustrated by Lilla Bolecz

Templar Books ISBN: 978-1800788398

Published 25th September 2025

Let’s Be Earthlings

A little alien discovers Earth and it delighted by all its wonders. It enjoys feeding like a bat, carrying its home on its back like a snail and playing like a child. The only thing missing is its friend, Batu…

In ‘Let’s Be Earthlings’, the little alien’s enthusiasm for all the joys of Earth is infectious! As they shapeshift from creature to creature, children are encouraged to think about all the variety and wonders of life on Earth and how the planet makes the perfect home for everyone.

The little alien realises that not everything on Earth is as happy as it might be- some Earthlings never go outside -some Earthlings are scared of the alien and tell it to keep away- but the alien finds solutions to these difficulties and still thinks Earth is amazing!

The illustrations are colourful and full of fun, capturing the little alien’s enthusiasm for the world its exploring and the diversity of life on Earth. Children can enjoy spotting the creatures that they have met along the way on the final spread, including finding which animal the little alien has shifted into!

Let’s Be Earthlings

Mary Murphy

Otter-Barry ISBN: 978-1915659620

Publishing 7th August 2025

Celtic Myths

‘Celtic Myths’ is the latest in a series of books from DK celebrating these ancient stories. Beautifully presented, full of colourful illustrations, this book offers a wealth of tales from the Celtic people of Britain, Ireland and Brittany.

The tales are organised into five sections: Heroes, Warriors and Rulers; Love and Loyalty; Magic and Mystery; Poetry and Places; and About the Myths. The collection contains an excellent balance of better and less well-known stories, making this a wonderful book to offer those new to Celtic myths.

Each story has been carefully retold, true to the original (although there are, of course, many different versions of the same story!) , yet in a way which is accessible and absorbing for children. A pronunciation guide and glossary at the end of the book support understanding and there are pages scattered throughout which provide a focus on different characters from the stories, deepening the reader’s knowledge and making links between myths.

The ‘About the Myths’ section is full of additional details with themed pages about, amongst other things, mythical places, heroes and families. Each section is gorgeously illustrated, sure to catch interest and spark imagination as, whether they are being introduced to these magical stories for the first time or returning to them in a new collection, readers enjoy this selection of Celtic Myths.

Celtic Myths: Meet the Gods, Creatures and Heroes of Celtic Legend

Martin Macintyre, illustrated by Katie Ponder

DK ISBN: 978-0241740255

You can read my review of ‘Egyptian Myths’ here.

The Coming of the Iron Man

In ‘The Coming of the Iron Man’, the first three chapters of Ted Hughes’ much loved classic, ‘The Iron Man’ have been abridged for younger readers and brought to life by Mini Grey’s fabulous illustrations.

Having read ‘The Iron Man’ to many classes over the years, I know how much they enjoy the opening scene where the Iron Man appears for the first time, falls down the cliff and rebuilds himself before disappearing into the sea. The richness of the language with its use of onomatopoeia, personification and repetition make it a joy to read aloud and Mini Grey’s wonderful pictures bring the story vividly to life for readers young and old.

Many of the illustrations could be used to generate ideas about characters. The one of Hogarth waiting in the tree, for example, could be used as a place to pause and explore what he might be thinking at this point, children adding their thoughts on post-it notes. Children could explore their ideas about the appearance of the Iron Man, comparing their own thoughts to Mini Grey’s portrayal whilst looking at the text for any given details.

Through beautifully illustrating this classic story, Mini Grey has made ‘The Iron Man’ accessible to younger children, perhaps leading them to read the full story when they are older.

The Coming of the Iron Man

Ted Hughes, illustrated by Mini Grey

Faber ISBN: 978-0571382736

Publishing 14th August 2025