Reviews
There are so many incredible books available at the moment that it is impossible to read them all, no matter how hard I try! Here are my thoughts about some of the books I have read and how I think they could be used in school as well as Q and A sessions with authors and illustrators.
Sin Bin Island
When Jack Winston Claremont Digby- Digs to his friends- finds himself with the family solicitor after the death of his mum, stepfather and sister, he has no idea how strange things are about to become. He has been left a strange set of Russian nesting dolls and discovers that, instead of being taken care of by family friend, Mrs O’Malley, he is to be sent to the Cyril Snigg’s Correctional Orphanage for Wayward Boys and Girls. The doll, it turns out, opens to reveal instructions to help him navigate his now uncertain future- and Digs is going to need all the help he can get to survive the bizarre lessons, systems and punishments of his new school. At the end of each year, the four worst-behaved pupils are sent to Sin Bind Island, a terrifying place where they must survive for a week…
As a huge Red Dwarf fan, I was very keen to read ‘Sin Bin Island’ as its author, Doug Naylor, is one of the creators of that excellent series. Fast paced, packed with adventure and full of humour, the story is every bit as good as I hoped it would be!
The first part of the book focuses on Digs arrival at the Cyril Snigg’s Correctional Orphanage for Wayward Boys and Girls, or ‘Cowbag’ as the pupils call it, following his fortunes as he builds friendships and learns more about the orphanage, its creation and its secrets. Digs is a thoroughly likeable character, determined to do his best in the face of adversity, loyal and kind-hearted. Baffled by the decision which has landed him at this very odd school, he wastes no time moping, but quickly makes friends- and learns who to avoid. These friendships will stand him in good stead when he has to face the horrors of Sin Bin island!
Although the story shares many of the expected elements of a boarding school story, it is peppered with original twists. The second half of the book tackles the children’s experiences on Sin Bin Island. Full of peril and excitement, the story romps along to its conclusion which leaves plenty of scope for future adventures for Digs and his friends. The layered plot and pleasing pace make this story perfect for those looking for a more challenging and very entertaining read in Y6 and into secondary.
Can’t wait for the next one!
Sin Bin Island
Doug Naylor
David Fickling Books ISBN: 978-1788453707
Astrologica
Offering an encyclopaedia of myths and legends about the planets and stars, ‘Astrologica’ is a fascinating read. Lavishly illustrated, it is perfect for introducing young readers to stories of the skies from around the world.
A glossary appears at the beginning of this book, allowing readers to familiarise themselves with the relevant terminology before as well as offering a convenient reference point whilst reading. A look at the origins of astrology sets the scene before a section on the ‘Myths of the Tropical Zodiac’ focuses on each star sign in turn, sharing its story as well as the attributes associated with that sign, the dates it covers, its symbol, constellation and element. Each myth is carefully retold and ‘Did You Know?’ sections offer additional information.
‘Myths of the Solar System’ and ‘Myths of the Stars’ follow, with tales from around the world celebrating celestial bodies and the people who observed and revered them. The author acknowledges the similarities and differences in how these planets and stars might be viewed by those in different places, but manages to convey a shared sense of awe and wonder for the skies above. These would make wonderful stories to share with a class, broadening children’s knowledge and deepening understanding of different cultures.
‘Star Knowledge Around the World’ explores how different cultures and countries have used the stars- like Maya astronomers, Inca sun worshipers and the Chinese zodiac. Full of fascinating details, there is so much to learn and enjoy!
The final section focuses on astrology today and how this differs from astronomy, encouraging readers to ponder about the subject. Sure to pique curiosity about the subject, this book is a real treasure trove of stories, accompanied by stunning illustrations- a perfect gift!
Astrologica
Suki Ferguson, illustrated by Camelia Pham
Wide Eyed ISBN: 978-0711293595
University of Cambridge: Build Your Own Solar System
Beautifully presented and packed with information, ‘Build Your Own Solar System’ is another ingenious book from Nosy Crow which engages children through both reading and activity.
Starting with a section entitled ‘What is the Solar System?’, the book offers clear sections of carefully explained text which deepen the reader’s knowledge and understanding of the different planets and features which make up our solar system. Dramatic illustrations illuminate every page, drawing interest and helping to guide the reader to different sections.
In addition to information about the planets, links are made to the gods and goddesses from mythology which gave them their names. Whilst many readers might be familiar with the fact that Venus is named after the Roman goddess of love and beauty, some might be surprised to learn that the tallest active volcano on Venus is named after Ma’at, the Egyptian goddess of balance, truth and justice. The role of key figures in the world of astronomy such as Abd al-Rahman al-Sufi and Galileo are also mentioned, encouraging those interested to find out more.
Perfect for enriching the Y5 Science programme of study of ‘Earth and Space’, the book not only offers a wealth of facts about our solar system, but allows children to create a model of each using the press outs in the end section and arranging them in order, reinforcing the learning from the text. There is a QR code to scan which offers step-by-step ‘how to’ videos for support if needed.
University of Cambridge: Build Your Own Solar System
Lauren Fairgrieve, illustrated by Anja Susanj
Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805132776
You can read my review of ‘Birds of a Feather’ also written by Lauren Fairgrieve here.
The Strange Disappearance of Imogen Good
Fran is not looking forward to spending a week with her aunt and uncle, largely because of her rude and unfriendly cousin, Imogen. However, when she arrives, Fran finds that Imogen is missing…and no one seems to remember that she ever existed. Puzzled and frightened, Fran is determined to find out what happened to her cousin which leads her to a hidden garden which contains twelve mysterious statues.
Offering an excellent mystery, ‘The Strange Disappearance of Imogen Good’ is a pacy, compelling read which will have readers on the edge of their seats.
Short chapters told from differing viewpoints are interspersed with those telling the story of ‘The Twelve Statues of Stillness Hall’ which gradually reveals the secret of the hidden garden. As events unfold, the story reaches a very satisfying conclusion which is perfectly paced, bringing the plot to a point which still allows readers some scope for imagination. It’s hard to explain what I mean here fully without ruining the story for those who have not read it yet!
Fran is a very engaging character. Although initially scared and confused by the situation she finds herself in, she quickly shows herself to be determined and resourceful. She is also a very honest character, recognising her faults and seeking to be kind to others. Bex, a girl who lives in the same row of cottages as Imogen and her family, is a wonderfully quirky individual who sadly finds herself on the receiving end of the local bullies. Imogen is a really interesting and complex character who is not easy to take to initially yet grows on the reader as the story progresses.
Sure to keep a class on tenterhooks, there is much to recommend this as a class reader. The peer pressure and bullying experienced would make for interesting discussions and the fantasy element is sure to spark listeners’ imaginations and lead to some excellent story writing!
I was absolutely captivated and could not put this one down until I had finished!
The Strange Disappearance of Imogen Good
Kirsty Applebaum
Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805131472
You can read my review of ‘The Middler’ here and ‘Troofriend’ here
Huxley and Flapjack: Wild West Escape
Huxley, the impulsive koala, and Flapjack, the timid penguin, are back in a new adventure! Spotting an advert in the paper, Huxley decides that becoming a cowhand is the perfect way to earn some money. Not deterred when Flapjack points out that they can’t even ride horses, Huxley accepts the job and the two friends find themselves in charge of a herd of cows. However, when they lose all the cows, they must track them all down before heading home to the farm.
Ideal for younger readers, ‘Wild West Escape’ is another delightful escapade for these two loveable, and very different, friends!
As usual, everything goes wrong as Huxley blithely wanders into a new situation, deaf to the cautious voice of Flapjack. Their series of mishaps will have children chuckling and then cheering as everything turns out right in the end! The story is full of gentle humour and packed with lively, colourful illustrations, making it a very engaging and enjoyable read.
One of the many lovely things about this story is that, like the others in the series, it allows for conversations about friendships. Huxley and Flapjack are very different characters and yet enjoy a close friendship. Whilst Huxley brings Flapjack out of his comfort zone and enables him to be more adventurous, there is also scope for gentle discussions about listening to the ideas and feelings of others with the more impetuous or dominant! Whilst Huxley and Flapjack’s adventures never lead them into any real or lasting harm, there are times when Huxley should ‘look before he leaps’!
As well as being very appealing, the illustrations offer plenty of additional information and ‘clues’ about what is going on in the text. Reactions to Huxley’s guitar playing, Flapjack’s many facial expressions and the duo’s final task before they head home are brilliantly captured in this way. Perfect for cuddling up and sharing, the book also falls neatly into bridging the gap between picture books and longer reads!
Huxley and Flapjack: Wild West Escape
Alan MacDonald, illustrated by Francesca Gambatesa
Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1788957403
You can read my review of ‘Trouble at Sea’ here and ‘Race to the Rescue’ here.
Murder at Christmas
Grace is delighted when she arrives in Bath to spend Christmas with her mum and younger brother, Billy. Although her dad won’t be with them, they will be staying at the hotel owned by their mum’s twin sister, Aunt Mollie. But when a body is found on the stairs and their mum disappears, Grace and Billy start to worry that everything is not as it seems. Together with their new friends, Doug and Olive, they start to hunt for clues, determined to find their mum and solve the murder in time for Christmas.
You can always rely on Fleur Hitchcock for a well-written, compelling adventure and ‘Murder at Christmas’ is no exception! Perfectly pitched for young readers and offering plenty of twists and turns, this festively themed mystery is every bit as enjoyable as her other books.
There is a wonderful warmth to this story! It is a joy to read about such a loving, close-knit family, including siblings who are so fond of one another. Instantly likeable, Grace is a very relatable character who, finding herself plunged into a mystery, tries to balance looking after her little brother with coping with their mother’s disappearance. She shows herself to be resourceful and determined despite feeling the odd twinge of self-doubt. Billy is also a well developed character and, although she goes missing part way through, Mum is also a real presence in the story instead of a ‘token’ grown-up’.
The action is brilliantly plotted with plenty of red herrings, twists, double dealing and a very satisfying conclusion. Those who know Bath will really enjoy recognising the familiar features and locations of that beautiful city which all adds a sense of realism to the story.
This would make an excellent class story for UKS2 with plenty to discuss and enjoy, encouraging children to predict and deduce as they spot clues and interpret the evidence. It is also the perfect story to recommend to those looking for something to challenge their thinking or for those who enjoy a thoroughly good adventure. Whatever the reason, ‘Murder at Christmas’ offers an excellent read for the coming festive season!
Murder at Christmas
Fleur Hitchcock
Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805132240
You can read my review of ‘Murder at Snowfall’ here, ‘Murder at Wintertide’ here, ‘Waiting for Murder’ here and ‘Murder in Midwinter’ here and ‘Mouse Heart’ here
The Fantastical Safari
‘The Fantastical Safari’ is a stunning book which takes readers on an incredible journey to five of the most remote habitats in the world. The illustrations are stunning, making this a book to treasure for adults and children alike.
The safari travels to the depths of the Marina Trench, along the Greenland Ice Sheet to the Highlands of Papua New Guinea, the Galapagos Islands and then finally to the Tenere region of the Sahara Desert. Each location is carefully introduced with its terrain and climate described before exploring the creatures which live there and how they have adapted to survive in those conditions.
Perfect for enriching and adding interest to the science curriculum, the book supports many of the things which children should be taught in the Living Things and their Habitats and Evolution and Inheritance strands. Beautiful books like this one enhance the subject, encouraging children to value them. The Galapagos Islands are often chosen as a focus for learning in geography- location, physical features, mapping skills etc- and this book encourages them to look both at and beyond this to develop their knowledge and understanding of the world.
Both beautiful and fascinating, this is a book to treasure!
The Fantastical Safari
Kristjana S Williams, written by Lucy Brownridge
Wide Eyed ISBN: 978-0711296725
Squirrel and Bird
Squirrel and Bird are very different. Squirrel is really loud, confident and always busy whereas Bird is really quiet, shy and prefers to sit and do nothing. Yes, they are really different…or are they?
This delightful picture book challenges readers to consider how they view others, encouraging the idea that everyone is an individual with many facets to their personality. Having worked in schools all my working life, quick snap generalisations of children as ‘good’, ‘naughty’, ‘cheeky’ etc have always annoyed me as no one should be judged as one dimensional. ‘Squirrel and Bird’ is perfect for challenging this notion!
An unseen narrator introduces Squirrel and Bird, emphasising their difference. Bird is annoyed by these comments and readers will enjoy noticing that the narrator’s commentary is not a true reflection of what they are actually feeling! Eventually, it all gets too much for Bird who demands that the narrator recognises that there is so much more to Squirrel and Bird than they (the narrator) gives them credit for and starts to rewrite the story with a more perceptive commentary!
The illustrations are simple lovely, using muted, sepia tones and are full of details for children to notice and enjoy. Bird’s comments are presented in a flowing, cursive script, allowing readers to differentiate between their thoughts and the narrator’s commentary. The story is both thought-provoking and thoroughly enjoyable and would make an excellent book to share with any class of any age to encourage discussion about how we see others, how we see ourselves and how we are all a complex mix of different things at different times.
Squirrel and Bird
Laura Baker, illustrated by Stacey Thomas
Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1838917203
Thank You, Old Oak
After 400 years, Old Oak finally falls to the forest floor. Creatures gather to give thanks for the many ways in which she helped them whilst she was standing. But, even now, Old Oak contributes to life in the forest in a variety of ways.
‘Thank You, Old Oak’ is a wonderful book, written in celebration of these incredible trees and shares much about the role they play in a forest ecosystem. The personification of Old Oak engages readers, encouraging them to empathise as her long life comes to an end and she is mourned by all the creatures who have benefitted from her presence over the years.
Although many of the animals and birds who gather round the fallen oak will be known to UK readers, some will be less familiar, encouraging discussion about native and non-native species as well as the importance of oak trees around the world.
The story ends on a note of joy as Old Oak’s legacy- healthy oak seedlings- are beginning to grow. Factual information about oak trees and how to read tree rings is included at the end of the book which will hopefully spark children’s interest and encourage them to learn more about these incredible trees. It would make an excellent book to share with a KS1 class with its colourful, collaged illustrations sure to engage and add to their enjoyment of the story.
Thank You, Old Oak
Britt Crow-Miller, illustrated by Amy Schimler-Safford
Barefoot Books ISBN: 978-8888596579
Soup’s On Around the World
Like its companion ‘Teatime Around the World’, ‘Soup’s On’ is a tasty treat, exploring the different ways people enjoy this savoury staple around the world.
Simple rhyming text leads the reader from page to page whilst additional details are given about soups which are enjoyed in different countries and the traditions associated with them. Where appropriate, the name of the soup is given in the language of the country it is connected to along with details of its ingredients, how and when it is eaten. There is plenty here to spark interest and, hopefully, encourage some taste testing as well as inspiring children to appreciate the similarities and celebrate the differences surrounding something as simple as a bowl of soup.
Colourful illustrations add plenty of interest and both the author and the illustrator share their favourite soup recipes at the end of the book with a note explaining the reasons they are so fond of it. This might inspire families to start their own book of soup recipe book where they might collect favourite soups of friends and relations, perhaps encouraging them to experiment with ingredients and creating dishes to their own taste!
Perfect for sharing!
Soup’s On Around the World
Denyse Waissbluth, illustrated by Chelsea O’Byrne
Greystone Kids ISBN: 978-1778401671
You can read my review of ‘Teatime Around the World’ here.
Ghosts in the Walls
‘Ghosts in the Walls’ is a collection of eleven scary stories, each written by a different author and each inspired by a Royal Palace. Greatly enhanced by Pam Smy’s atmospheric illustrations, it offers gripping tales with the added benefit of piquing interest in some of the country’s most iconic buildings.
A note from each author can be found at the end of the book, allowing readers to share their inspiration and the development of their ideas. There are many ghosts stories associated with the palaces and although this is a collection of new tales, they are inspired by real people, places and/ or events and are often rich in historical detail.
One of my favourites is ‘Children of the Maze’ by Sam Sedgman. Deliciously sinister, it uses the famous maze at Hampton Court Palace (one of my favourite places!) as the setting for a story which is the stuff of nightmares. Another equally enjoyable story based at Hampton Court is ‘The Prince in the Painting’ by E L Norry- readers will never look at portraits the same way again, but are also sure to be inspired to seek out the painting which features in the story, just to check..!
The setting for Sophie Kirtley’s contribution, ‘In this Still Place’ has made me really want to go and visit Hillsborough Castle and Gardens and explore the Walled Garden… and these stories are sure to have the same effect on other readers, leading them to explore some of these fabulous locations and, no doubt, finding their own imaginations igniting with possibilities for storytelling!
Definitely spooky and not for the faint hearted, this is a collection for the brave and curious!
Historic Royal Palaces: Ghosts in the Walls
Spooky Stories inspired by Real History
Various authors, illustrated by Pam Smy
Bloomsbury ISBN: 978-1526671196
Seeds: Nature’s Intrepid Miracles
‘Seeds’ is one of those books which encourages readers to pause and reflect upon the beauties of nature, allowing time to notice and appreciate these often tiny objects. Highlighting their incredible diversity, it focuses on nearly 150 seeds from across the world.
The illustrations are simply stunning, each one a work of art. Arranged in sections which reflect how they are dispersed, each seed is given a page of its own which offers information beneath the illustration. The binomial classification for each plant is given in the top corner of each page and a ‘multiplied by’ is given to indicate the seeds original size.
Some of the language is a little ‘flowery’ (no pun intended!), but this adds to the book’s charm, using some quirky and poetic vocabulary! The book concludes with information about the Svalbard Global Seed Vault and some record breaking details. Both a detailed index and a section called ‘Some Shortcuts’ make it easy to locate specific seeds, but this is a book to be browsed and enjoyed at leisure!
Seeds: Nature’s Intrepid Miracles
Cruschiform
Prestel ISBN: 978-3791375960
Shoes! A Footwear Fashion Frolic
With the Shoemakers’ Museum in Street, Somerset due to reopen, ‘Shoes! A Footwear Fashion Frolic’ seems like the perfect book to read before a visit!
In the opening chapter, ‘Shoes! (and why we love them) explores the perennial appeal of footwear before looking at early shoes from around the world and then those favoured in the Victorian era, including the first pair of boots with an elastic side gusset, presented to Queen Victoria in 1937. The anatomy of a shoe, different types of heels and some of the ‘classic’ shoe styles are shown all accompanied by colourful illustrations.
Chapter Two introduces the reader to shoe design across the 20th century, showing the influence of social and historical events on this. The popularity of celebrities such as Josephine Baker and Madonna and crazes like ‘Egyptomania’ altered the styles available as the decades passed and these evolutions are explained.
‘Spotlights’ on significant designers and styles are scattered throughout, giving more detail about key figures such as Coco Chanel and Mary Quant and fashions like Desert Boots and Crocs. Adults are sure to enjoy this every bit as much as their children, perhaps laughing at foolish fashion choices of days gone by or longing for their return!
Chapter Three is devoted to the history of ‘sneakers’, from early designs to the possibilities of their future design! The rivalries and marketing strategies of companies are also explored, making for a fascinating read. The book concludes by posing the question - what’s next in shoe design?- offering inspiration and encouragement to any aspiring shoe creators of the future!
Great fun!
Shoes! A Footwear Fashion Frolic
Anna Davies and Daisy Wynter
Cicada ISBN: 978-1800660571
Small, Shiny Dung Beetle
The latest in the ‘Start Small, Think Big’ series focuses on the fascinating life of the dung beetle, Garreta nitens. Perfect for sparking the curiosity of young readers, a great deal of information is packed into this attractive book in a very accessible and engaging way.
Each page begins with a direct narrative from the female dung beetle who tells her story. Presented in bold type it highlights a key event which is then expanded on below, allowing newly confident readers to share the reading and learning experience as necessary. More confident - or perhaps older- readers can then discover more by reading further captions and labels. Attractive, colourful illustrations accompany the text and are full of details to enjoy.
Through looking at the example of the dung beetle, the book covers areas of the science curriculum such as life cycles, food chains and habitats, enriching learning through offering a different example to those children might usually be presented with- the caterpillar, butterfly, frog etc. The vital role of the dung beetle in their ecosystem is also explored and reference is made to the ancient Egyptian belief about Khepri, the god often depicted as a dung beetle, pushing the sun across the sky as a dung beetle pushes its ball of dung.
As with the other titles in this series, the book ends with a fold out poster, summarising much of the information and showing a map of Africa. This also includes a ‘Serengeti I-Spy’, with animals for children to hunt for, encouraging children to further engage with their reading and look closely. Beautifully presented, the book is designed to withstand repeated readings and would make an excellent addition to any bookshelf, not only for KS1, but also offering support to older children who are less confident readers.
Small, Shiny Dung Beetle
Mary Auld, illustrated by Hannah Bailey
Mama Makes Books ISBN: 978-1916780149
You can read my review of ‘Flying, Fluffy Seed’ here, ‘Small, Speckled Egg’/ ‘Little, Brown Nut’ here and ‘Small, Sparkling Raindrop’ here.
The Beast from Beneath
Malory Vayle is getting used to her new powers as a necromancer, but still has a lot to learn about her new, very talkative and self-obsessed, friend, Maggoty, a skull with a penchant for wigs. Having made the mistake of walking past a shop called ‘Les Wigs’, Maggoty is now determined to own the ‘Eleganza’, an elaborate hairpiece complete with ostrich feathers which is far too expensive for Mallory to hope to afford- there is no money for food, let alone wigs! However, Aunt Lilith, who Mallory now lives with, has come up with a scheme. Holding a Grand Séance will raise the money they need. But when this goes horribly wrong and an evil power is unleashed, Mallory and Maggoty must face great peril to thwart its evil plan. Will they succeed and, more importantly, will Mallory get his wig?
I have to confess that I was not sure about this one before I started it, but soon found myself giggling in the corner of a coffee shop at the antics of the somehow loveable Maggoty and the long-suffering Mallory! ‘The Beast from Beneath’ is a delightful romp of a story, with a slightly spooky edge!
Although the sequel to ‘Mallory Vayle and the Curse of Maggoty Skull’, it is possible to read this one as a stand alone. Plenty of background information is given, quickly catching the reader up with past events; however, if book one is as hysterical as book two, no one will want to miss it!
Maggoty is very much the star of the show! He has no filter and says things as he sees them regardless of the situation. However, when it comes to the crunch, it seems that he is more fond of Mallory than it might first appear! Although the subject matter of the book is quite dark- necromancers, evil spirits, ghosts, seances and death do not make for a light read- there is so much humour in the story that this does not read like a horror story.
Mallory is a really interesting character. Aware of her powers, she, unlike her Aunt, knows they need to be treated with care and caution, giving her a wisdom beyond her years. Both courageous and loyal, she is determined to save her aunt and is also prepared to sacrifice her own happiness to do what she thinks is the right thing.
There might be adults who have reservations about the content so this would need to be carefully considered before choosing this as a class story. Having said that, I think it would make a very entertaining class book, enjoyed by adults and children alike!
Mallory Vayle and Maggoty Skull in The Beast from Beneath
Martin Howard, illustrated by Pete Williamson
Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805132264
Giggling Ghosts!
In a busy town, when it’s quiet after dark, there is a house full of ghosts who are ready to scare! Sneaking and spinning, gliding and booooing are all great fun, but their favourite thing to do is giggle.
Perfect for sharing, ‘Giggling Ghosts’ offers a fun, interactive story time. Bouncy rhyming text encourages children to join in with the little ghosts as they have a great time stretching, tiptoeing, jiggling and wiggling, encouraging everyone to be active and interpret the ghosts movements in their own way.
Although obviously full of ghosts, this is not really a spooky story making it just right for sharing with younger children at Hallowe’en time. The illustrations are lovely, showing ‘cute’ little ghosts surrounded by sparkling dust as they glide around and even the pictures showing them peeking round gravestones are not frightening! Children are sure to quickly identify their own favourite amongst the ghosts and follow its adventure from picture to picture as each seems to have its own personality. They might enjoy thinking up names for each one!
Sweet, gentle and fun, this lovely book would make a wonderful story time and could easily be used to inspire lots of craft activities!
Giggling Ghosts!
Fiz Osborne, illustrated by Tim Budgen
Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1398535084
The Last Bard
When Will’s father dies, he and his mother, Mary, have to move in with Will’s Uncle Claude and his cousin, Jon. Treated like servants by Claude, who never loses an opportunity to remind them that they are only there because of his ‘kindness’, they are relieved to leave his home for a while whilst they sort out Will’s grandfather’s flat in a complex called Arden Heights. Here, Will meets Ani, another occupant, who is determined to save the flats from being sold off for redevelopment- and sees Will as someone who can help her. Will also makes a curious discovery amongst his grandfather’s possessions- a copy of The Complete Works of Shakespeare which contains some of the characters from the Bard’s plays. With their ‘help’, can Will find the courage he needs to turn his life around?
‘The Last Bard’ is bursting with humour, heart and lots of Shakespearean references, making it a fabulous read!
Will is such a relatable character. His grief at the loss of his father combined with his new living conditions make it impossible not to empathise with him, making the reader really invested in his story. His relationship with his mother is beautifully portrayed and seeing her diminished and bullied by her brother, Will’s Uncle Claude, only adds to his pain as he keeps secrets from her, attempting to lessen her burden. There are plenty of poignant moments in the story, allowing for discussion and reflection, but these are balanced by a comedy of errors as his new Shakespearean friends get to work!
Will is not the only brilliantly captured character! His mum, Mary, is just wonderful and each of the inhabitants of Arden Heights are well developed and believable. Uncle Claude and Jon are thoroughly nasty pieces of work, highlighting the complexity of some family relationships, yet others whom seem less likeable are given more depth as Will comes to know and understand them. Ani is a force of nature- outspoken, determined and courageous, she also has a more complex ‘back story’ which is gradually uncovered as the story progresses.
The Shakespearean element of the story is pure genius! Anyone familiar the Shakespeare’s life and plays will delight in spotting the links and anyone who is not is sure to be tempted to find out all about them! Even the chapter headings and some names draw on his works! As Puck, Lady Macbeth, Yorick’s skull and Juliet, the remaining characters trapped in his copy of ‘The Complete Works’ strive to help Will save Arden Heights, things go horribly and hysterically wrong and yet allow Will to quietly observe, listen and help in his own way, making sure ‘all’s well that end’s well’!
There is so much to love in this story that I felt quite disappointed when it ended. Not because of a poor ending (quite the contrary!), but because I was enjoying it so much! Although this would make an excellent class story, sensitivity to the possible experiences of listeners is essential.
The Last Bard
Maz Evans
Chicken House ISBN: 978-1913696900
Victor and the Giant
Victor is enjoying his morning hot chocolate when, suddenly, there is a terrible noise and a horrible shaking, followed by silence. Looking out of his window, he sees an enormous giant, who, having eaten all the city apart from Victor’s building, is now sleeping off his meal. Summoning his courage, Victor sets off to investigate…
‘Victor and the Giant’ is a quirky and imaginative read. In the best fairy tale tradition, our hero, Victor, defeats the giant and restores his mother and the rest of the city. His solution to the giant problem, however, is not violence or outwitting his adversary, but creativity and appealing to the giant’s better nature.
Genial, but hungry, the giant, once woken from his slumber, is moved by Victor’s tears and is happy to rectify the situation in return for a milky hot chocolate. Children will appreciate Victor’s tactics as he wakes the giant by pulling out one of his nose hairs and then tickles his tonsils to get his mother and the city back. The illustrations allow readers to ‘admire’ every hair, lump and bump on the giant’s skin and in his mouth and shows the regurgitated city covered in slime, all of which is sure to make children squeal in delight! Other illustrations emphasise how tiny Victor is in comparison to the giant and children will enjoy spotting his tiny figure as he tries to appeal to his huge adversary.
All ends well as Victor’s mother and the city are returned and the giant satiated. However, the final page leaves the the reader wondering what really happened, offering plenty to discuss and enjoy!
Victor and the Giant
Rafael Yockteng, translated by Elisa Amado
Greystone Kids ISBN: 978-1778499841
The Search for Our Cosmic Neighbours
Commander Julia and the crew of the Mission Star Drifter have been searching for signs of life in the universe for ten years. It is beginning to feel like a fruitless mission and relations on board ship are becoming a little strained. They decide to visit one last planet and initially, this seems like all the other harsh, lonely, cold planets which they have been to until their dog, Khan, draws their attention to some yellow beings who open the explorers’ eyes to new beauties and new wonders.
‘The Search for Our Cosmic Neighbours’ is another beautiful and thought-provoking book from Chloe Savage.
The delicately coloured illustrations burst with beguiling details, making the book a joy to linger over and explore. Cross sectional diagrams of the spaceship allow readers to observe life on board ship whilst other illustrations allow readers to be in on the joke and notice that there is life on this ‘desolate wasteland’ before the crew does. The spaceship itself is oddly human, its ‘face’ reflecting a whole range of emotions as the adventure continues.
The story offers the potential for discussing a whole range of topics, making it a wonderful choice for sharing with a class. Having initially been filled with enthusiasm for their mission, the lack of success leads the crew to become disenchanted with their task; however, ultimately, their patience is rewarded. Relationships between crew members become tense due to their close confinement with little things being blown out of all proportion. Initially, the Star Drifters fail to appreciate the space creatures’ way of life, showing how cultures can misunderstand each other, but eventually, they come to appreciate their world and enjoy simply appreciating how wonderful it is to be alive and enjoy the moment rather than searching for a practical purpose. Plenty to ponder on whilst enjoying this lovely story!
How to Scare a Mouse and Bear
It’s Hallowe’en and Bear is determined to give Mouse a fright. However, no matter what he tried Mouse sees through costume after costume until a mysterious monster knocks on the door…
Bear and Mouse are back for their fourth adventure in ‘How to Scare a Mouse and Bear’ and it is every bit as adorable as the previous titles!
Illustrations start the story before the text kicks in as Mouse is gathering pumpkins and squashes for carving into Hallowe’en lanterns, setting the scene for the spooky season. As Bear announces his intention to scare his friend, Mouse, feisty as ever, declares that he won’t be frightened. Challenge made, Bear appears in a series of Hallowe’en costumes, each mocked by Mouse. The text follows the usual Mouse and Bear book pattern, making it reassuringly familiar and perfect for children to join in with, predicting the rhyming words whilst laughing at Mouse’s responses. Children may well enjoy thinking of other costumes which Bear might try and creating their own responses from Mouse as he appears in them! Readers will delight in the moment where Mouse realises the monster at the door is not Bear and the fact that their scare leaves these two pals cuddled together behind a chair, united once more!
The illustrations are wonderful- big and bold against single colour backgrounds, perfect for little children to focus on and enjoy. The range of expressions on Mouse and Bear’s faces as the story progresses is impressive, offering plenty of moments to pause and wonder how each is feeling at different parts of the story. I have said this before, but I think children would love to make simple glove puppets of Mouse and Bear and use them to re-enact this or any of the stories or to create their own.
I hope there are many more Mouse and Bear books to come!
How to Scare a Mouse and Bear
Ross Collins
Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805135012
You can read my review of ‘We Disagree About this Tree’ here.
