Tales of Ghosts and Hauntings

Posing the question, ‘Do ghosts really exit?, ‘Tales of Ghosts and Hauntings’ contains six gripping mysteries to investigate. Challenging the reader to consider the evidence and come to their own conclusions, this book is every bit as engaging as ‘Tales of Scary Beasts’ by the same author/ illustrator team, both excellent for promoting non-fiction’s role in reading for pleasure.

Each mystery is presented in an engaging and accessible manner, with key vocabulary clearly explained to support the reader’s comprehension. Eye witness quotes are included and the dates of events are clearly indicated as the evidence in each case is gathered. This is followed by a ‘Let’s Investigate’ section which gathers the key points together to support the reader in coming to their own conclusion.

The range of mysteries included ensures that there is something here to pique the curiosity of everyone. ‘Palace Phantoms’ investigates strange happenings at Hampton Court Palace. Other mysteries are included such as ghosts at the Tower of London, the Scheffler Palace in Stockholm and Himeji Castle in Japan as well as creepy rumours at Houska Castle in the Czech Republic. Historic details surrounding these events are given, with maps and plans to clarify and support understanding. ‘Demon Dogs’ investigates the many folklore stories which include strange dogs- Black Shuck is the focus story here, but other stories from the UK and around the world are included.

Perfect for the Hallowe’en season, ‘Tales of Ghosts and Hauntings’ is sure to entice readers and inspire them to investigate these stories - and any others which they might encounter!

Tales of Ghosts and Hauntings

Susan Martineau, illustrated by Vicky Barker

b small publishing ISBN: 978-1916851207

You can read my review of ‘Tales of Scary Beasts’ here.

Unicorn Post

One day, when a little girl is playing in her tree house, a unicorn arrives. Keen to help her new friend, the little girl takes the unicorn to visit places around the town which might make a suitable new home. From the pet shop to the fair, together they explore until, at last, the unicorn finds its perfect forever home.

Simply delightful from start to finish, ‘Unicorn Post’ is a gentle, heart-warming story, perfect for sharing.

Children will love lifting the flaps to explore the leaflets and letters which are found throughout the book, enhancing the story with lots of additional details and humour. These are so delightful that readers are sure to be inspired to create their own little leaflets and letters, perhaps as part of their own book made in this style. The Funfair map includes a key to help identify the different rides and locations whilst the leaflet from the pet shop is full of ‘purrfect’ puns and and ‘cheep’ offers!

The illustrations are gorgeous and the whole book has a rosy glow which adds to the warm feeling of the story. As the little girl tries her best to find the unicorn a home, the relationship between them blossoms until, although happy she has found the perfect place for the unicorn to live, the little girl is deeply saddened to leave her new friend behind, leading to a long walk home with no singing and a grey tinge spreading across the landscape. Fortunately, the perfect happy ending is just round the corner and the new friends are happily reunited!

Although not many people write and post letters these days, this book reminds us how nice it is to receive something so personal! ‘Unicorn Post’ is a real joy!

Unicorn Post

Emma Yarlett

Walker Books ISBN: 978-1529525175

You can read my review of ‘Nibbles The Very Hungry Book Monster’ here and ‘Dragon Post’ here.

Press Start to Play

With this year’s theme of ‘Play’, ‘Press Start to Play’ is perfect for celebrating National Poetry Day!

Many of the poems reference gaming tactics and terms, making the collection instantly appealing to gamers. However, a closer look shows that there is far more to these poems. Clever use of word play and analogy allow for the exploration of ‘deeper’ topics and thought-provoking poems amongst the humour!

‘What If?’ is a wonderful pondering poem, exploring all the possibilities created by posing those two words and how they can help to inspire writing. Similarly, ‘Bad Mr Block’ personifies the feeling of being unable to write- he’s the ‘antagonist’, stopping ‘the tracks of my thought train’. ‘Stealing Ain’t Thieving in Writing’ (I can’t bring myself to leave out the apostrophe!) encourages children to think about tropes in writing. This offers a great starting point for teachers to encourage children to think about the stories referenced in the poem, comparing them and adding their own ideas, encouraging them in the ‘seven stories’ idea and know that they can use these structures to build their own.

There are so many poems to enjoy here, in a range of styles, drawing on different games and offering something for everyone. A section at the end of the book encourages children to experiment with ideas and play with poems of their own. The focus on a fun, light-hearted approach is engaging and interactive. The whole collection would make an excellent addition to any library or classroom shelf and there are many poems here which could be used in class

A cartoon flipbook has been added to the edge of the pages, adding to the fun of the read! A brilliant, highly imaginative collection!

Press Start to Play

Sam Gayton, illustrated by Jack Noel

Andersen Press ISBN: 978-1839136092

The Big Bad Wolf Murder

Playing ‘Tooth and Claw’ with her team means everything to Ruby Calvino. The youngest competitor in the championships, she is determined to prove her worth and defeat Alarick, the undefeated wolf. However, when Alarick drops dead in the middle of the game, Ruby finds herself accused of murder. Desperate to prove her innocence and find the real murderer, Ruby teams up with Fillan, a wolf-cub accused of being her accomplice, and together, they go on the run, pursued by the police…and a mysterious wolf who is determined to hunt them down.

A great lover of fairy tales, I am always a bit anxious when these tale are ‘re-imagined’; however, both in ‘The Beanstalk Murder’ and now in ‘The Big Bad Wolf Murder’, P G Bell has created brilliant stories, full of nods to the tales they draw on whilst being highly original and entertaining.

There is so much I love about this one that it is hard to know where to start! The Netherburg Reds- Roselyn , Akako (meaning ‘red’), Voss (meaning ‘fox’) and of course, Ruby, have all been named to remind the reader of Little Red Riding Hood in the original story as they try to escape the big, bad wolf, Alarick, in the game of ‘Tooth and Claw’. Other names have also been carefully chosen: reporters Charlotte Grimm and Wilhelm Jacobs named for the Brothers Grimm who collected the story in the 19th century; Fillan meaning ‘little wolf’; Marceline meaning’little warrior’; Hardulph meaning ‘brave wolf’ and so on. These little details all add to the brilliant development of the story, offering plenty to discuss and inspire.

Both Ruby and Fillan are excellent characters, very different personalities who come to understand each other very well and work together as a team. Fillan is far more nervous and reserved than Ruby, who tends to be impetuous and headstrong. The story also highlights how easily prejudice and stereotyping can shape how individuals are seen. Gentle Fillan longs to be a chef, something which Ruby finds funny, making the assumption that all wolves are raw meat eaters. Alarick played on the stereotypes which make wolves appear dangerous and bad for his role in the arena, perpetuating these ideas- but perhaps not considering the impact this would have on his fellow wolves.

‘The Big Bad Wolf Murder’ would make an excellent class story, offering plenty to discuss whilst the pacy plot and murder mystery would engage and excite. The opening alone would have even the liveliest class completely captivated and desperate for more!

Can’t wait for the next one!

The Big Bad Wolf Murder

P G Bell

Usborne ISBN: 978-1836040743

You can read my review of ‘The Beanstalk Murder’ here.

The Legend of Viking Thunder

With Uncle Emmett missing and on the run from the Council of Keys, Sim and Jeopardy are determined to find him. Their quest leads them to Viking Norway and a mission to prevent the mythical Gjallarhorn, believed to signal the coming of Ragnarök, from falling into the wrong hands.

I absolutely adored ‘Hunt for the Golden Scarab’, the first Time Keys adventure, and so ‘The Legend of Viking Thunder’ didn’t even make it to the TBR pile, but was read immediately! A pacy, thoroughly enjoyable adventure, it is also rich in history and a love of music.

The idea of time ‘doors’ will make readers look at any ancient door they meet with new eyes and the story leads to some very specific locations which are described in tempting detail, showing that history is everywhere and that, although we might not all be able to pass through time, these links to the past can be easily found and investigated! The level of historical detail woven into each story is incredible- Viking in this adventure, Egyptian in the last- effortlessly enriching knowledge of the period and piquing interest. I can’t wait to see where they explore next- Italy from the sneak peak of the next book added at the end of this one!

Sim, Jeopardy and Nelson continue to work as an excellent team with the adults, Sim’s mum, Calli, and Jeopardy’s dad, Emmett, playing a main part in the action, unlike many children’s books where grown-ups are killed off early! More is discovered about Jeopardy in this story- her relationship with her father and her skills as a time key- but we also learn more about Sim’s father and how he (Sim) differs from the others.

Full of action and adventure, this would make an excellent class story to engage and excite children. Although part of a series, this could be read in isolation as through a diary entry and a letter information is given which sets the scene, filling the reader in on the previous events. Skilful writing, compelling story line, great illustrations- it’s a brilliant read!

Time Keys: The Legend of Viking Thunder

M G Leonard, illustrated by Manuel Sumberac

Macmillan ISBN: 978-1035005987

You can read my review of ‘Hunt for the Golden Scarab’ here.

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