Inspire Me!

Perfect for the National Year of Reading 2026, ‘Inspire Me!’ is a wonderful collection of ‘words that matter’, all carefully chosen by Nicolette Jones.

‘Inspire Me!’ is such an excellent title for this books as there is an incredible wealth of material here, each entry accompanied by a comment from Nicolette, offering further insight and food for thought and it is obvious that considerable skill, thought and wisdom has gone into the selection of each piece.

The material has been divided into eight ‘chapters’, each on a different theme, making it easy for readers to home in on a particular section should they wish. The range of writing used is quite wonderful- and inspiring! Paddington makes an appearance as do Pooh and Christopher Robin. There are words of wisdom from John Donne, Rosa Parks, Tove Jansson and Mark Twain. Song lyrics, speeches, poems all feature, encouraging readers to dwell on and value words presented in a wide range of forms.

‘Inspire Me!’ makes an amazing resource for schools. Any of the pieces here would make a wonderful focus for a PSHE lesson, an assembly or for sprinkling in to the day to enrich the curriculum, provoke discussion and engage thinking. Nicolette’s additional notes add an extra layer of support for anyone thinking about using the pieces in this way, giving extra inspiration. However, the book is also perfect for children to browse and explore for themselves and be inspired to make connections and initiate further learning and discovery. And not just children…

Inspire Me!

Selected by Nicolette Jones

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1807081652

Donut Squad Make a Mess!

Having defeated the Bagels, those sworn enemies of all Donuts, the Donut Squad is heading for the Great Outdoors for some camping.

It is almost impossible to review the chaotic madness which is at the heart of ‘Donut Squad Make a Mess!’- it is one of those books which you just have to read to enjoy! In a series of crazy capers, the Donuts shenanigans are presented in comic strips interspersed with adverts and puzzles- name that donut!- whilst a shocking secret means the Bagels might not have been as defeated as the Donuts thought!

There is something very addictive about these illustrations and their zany humour which make the books irresistible. Drawing advice is offered at the end of the book, inspiring children to create their own Donut adventures- or just have some fun doodling. It’s no wonder children (and adults!) find these books so appealing.

Donut Squad Make a Mess!

Neill Cameron

David Fickling Books ISBN: 978-1788453585

You can read my review of ‘Donut Squad Take Over the World’ here.

Animagicals: Mia’s Tiger

Having discovered that she can change into animal form, Mia is delighted to find she has a place at Wild Haven School where she will be trained by the Guardians and be able to meet other animagicals just like her. Keen to make friends and find her true animagical form, she starts her training, facing Challenges along the way. However, when she uncovers a plot to smuggle someone called Lord Scarfell into Animagia, no one will listen to her, leaving Mia and her new friends to take action.

‘Animagicals: Mia’s Tiger’ is the perfect story for younger readers who love animals, magic and adventure.

Each highly illustrated chapter is just the right length for engaging children who are building their independent reading stamina and confidence or for shared reading with an adult supporting them. Each chapter is packed with action and plenty of descriptive details, making the book a very enjoyable read.

Animal welfare and friendship are at the heart of the story. Mia and her friends are determined to protect the creatures of Animagia, showing great courage as they face the danger presented by the invaders. There is just the right amount of tension and peril for younger readers and the story offers plenty of opportunity for discussing characters and making predictions about what might happen next!

The first in what is sure to become a very popular new series, ‘Mia’s Tiger’ is a delightful read.

Animagicals: Mia’s Tiger

Paula Harrison, illustrated by Erwin Madrid

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805130925

Finn’s Epic Fails

Finn’s life seems destined to be a series of epic fails. Year 7 is plagued with boring lessons and evil teachers and at home, he has to contend with a unicorn-obsessed, evil little sister, a muscle-bound, vain older brother and a father who, since the divorce, has taken up wearing Lycra. Armed with his two best friends, Google and Laszlo, Finn is determined to negotiate life at secondary school without any issues, but when you are prone to epic fail after epic fail, will this be possible?

Offering a marked contrast to Phil’s recent series of historical novels, ‘Finn’s Epic Fails’ really is a laugh-a-minute read! Finn is instantly likeable and readers will instantly empathise with the many mortifying scrapes and ‘fails’ he encounters along the way. A ‘Fail-O-Meter’ at the beginning of each chapter indicates just how cringe worthy Finn’s life is going to get from a ‘Super Rare Win’ to ‘100% Epic Fail’. It will come as no surprise to learn that the wins are indeed ‘super rare’, but Finn’s resilience and general good humour as he recounts his experiences in this book which is definitely NOT a diary!

Short chapters, a fast paced, entertaining narrative and lively illustrations all combine to make the ups and downs of Finn’s life a very entertaining and engaging read. I notice Finn has the same high opinion of Frazzles as the author does which makes me wonder how much of Phil’s own school day experiences have made their way into the story!!

Finn’s Epic Fails

Phil Earle, illustrated by Al Murphy

Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1398546165

You can read my review of ‘Until the Road Ends’ here.

Small Poems for Big Imaginations

Small poems are fabulous fun

So I thought I would write this one

It will not be long I think

Cos my pen has run out of

So begins this fun collection of poems which would make an excellent addition to any poetry shelf! There are 55 short poems here which are perfect for sharing, performing and enjoying!

Each poem is a burst of energy, sharing a passion for poetry and word play which is sure to appeal to a wide audience and encourage readers to create their own poetic works. Who wouldn’t want to accept the challenge to create their own dissimilies or write a pangram?! Covering a wide range of topics and using a variety of styles, there is something for everyone here!

Many of these poems lend themselves to performing in imaginative and creative ways as groups, individuals or as whole classes. ‘On Finding an Acorn’, for example, would make an excellent performance piece whilst also offering plenty to ponder and discuss. Humour is used to great effect, encouraging readers to experiment with wit and word play to create poems of their own, drawing on the world around them for inspiration.

‘A Difficult Choice’ could be used as a model to generate both ideas and laughter whilst forming a collaborative piece. ’How Long is a Poem?’ is a wonderful starting point for developing similes…I could go on! These small poems will make a big difference!

Small Poems for Big Imaginations

Neal Zetter, illustrated by Will Hughes

Otter-Barry ISBN: 978-1915659873

You can read my review of ‘The Shape of Rainbows’ here, ‘When the Bell Goes’ here and ‘Scared’ here.

Tree Thing

When Rinti the squirrel finds a glowing little acorn on the forest floor, she scoops it up and takes it to her friend, Marlo. Nothing grows in the valley where they live, but Marlo plants the seed in the hope that something will come of it. To his amazement, the acorn grows into the most wonderful Tree Thing, which changes everything. However, when a mysterious Rider arrives, bearing an axe and threatening to destroy Tree Thing, Marlo must find the courage and ingenuity needed to face him and save Tree Thing.

Thought-provoking and powerful, ‘Tree Thing’ is a story deeply rooted in the beauty of the natural world. It carries a plea for its protection and bursts with hope for change. It is quite extraordinary.

Piers Torday says that this story was in part inspired by the senseless destruction of the ‘Sycamore Gap Tree’ found along Hadrian’s Wall in Northumberland. A favourite place to visit, my family and I were, like so many, horrified to hear of its having been illegally felled and have since visited the remaining stump and taken heart in the signs of new life sprouting there. In ‘Tree Thing’, the life of all trees is celebrated, including the amazing contribution they make in feeding, sheltering and sustaining so much other life. The beauty and power of Tree Thing brings life and hope to Marlo and the people living in his valley and when the Rider appears, intent on destruction, it is through Marlo’s determination to champion and protect Tree Thing that change is possible, offering hope for the future.

Themes of environmental protection and conservation in children’s books are no new thing; however, ‘Tree Thing’ is wonderfully original, almost fairy tale like in its form. The illustrations add much to the magical feeling of the story, capturing poignant, humorous and wonderful moments perfectly! ‘Tree Thing’ would make a fascinating class text for children to explore and enjoy whilst gaining much from the beautiful use of language and imagery.

A special story!

Tree Thing

Piers Torday, illustrated by Matthew Taylor Wilson

Hachette ISBN: 978-1786541482

You can read my review of ‘Midnight Treasure’ here and ‘Wolf Crown’ here.

Quill and the Last Generation

Living in a land trapped in winter, Quill is one of the last children to be born for twelve years. On Beltane night, the first of May, everyone gathers to light a fire, a symbolic act of bringing back warmth and light to the world and, although he wakes the following morning to the bitter cold he has become used to, he is surprised when a raven on his windowsill turns into a girl called Deryn, who claims she is there to take him to the underworld as he (Quinn) is the only one who can change things. Faced with a new world and new challenges, Quill must prepare to battle the King of Darkness and bring light back before it’s too late.

Drawing on myth and folklore, ‘Quill and the Last Generation’ is a sensational, unputdownable read, sure to appeal to a wide audience of readers young and old and so the perfect choice for my first review of 2026- the National Year of Reading!

Quill is a wonderful hero. Having always felt different to the other children of the last generation, Quill lives with his adoptive parents, wonderfully warm, loving people who named him ‘Quill’ because they knew he ‘would go on to write your own story. And that it would be extraordinary.’ Aware of who Quill was and where he came from, they did their very best to keep him safe, grounding him in love so that when faced with the dangers and challenges head, Quill proves a worthy champion. At every stage, his decisions are founded in thoughtful, caring actions, valuing people and creatures alike, making him a thoroughly likeable and deeply empathetic character. As he meets new friends and companions along the way, the reader is introduced to other memorable characters like Finn, Deryn and Eos, totem birds created by Quill’s mother and Solas, a beautiful winged horse formed from water.

The story is a fast-paced adventure, a true page turner! From deeply poignant moments to perilous action, the whole is beautifully written. There are hints of more to come - and I cannot wait to see what happens to Quill next. This is a must have for class shelves and would make a brilliant class story (teachers should be aware that death and loss feature in the plot), sure to captivate and inspire and offer a pathway to a range of myths, legends and folklore.

Quill and the Last Generation

C M Lewis, illustrated by Maria Vidal

Macmillan ISBN: 978-1035092703

Frank and Bert: The One Where Bert is Scared of Frogs

Frank and Bert love to visit the little pond where they can play with Bert’s toy boat. However, Bert is very scared of frogs and when he spots one on the pond, Frank tries to help him manage his fear. But Frank has a secret…Bert’s not the only one who is afraid of frogs.

The ‘Frank and Bert’ books are some of the most delightful picture books about friendship! In these stories, these two very different characters show that not only can opposites attract, but can form deep, enduring friendships based on support and trust.

Bert is very much a ‘what you see is what you get’ sort of character! Loyal and lovable, he wears his heart on his sleeve. Frank is kind and supportive and, in his efforts to help Bert cope with the frogs by the pond, pretends that he is not scared of frogs. Once he admits that he too is afraid, the two friends are able to face their fear together. Their attempt to deal with the frog leads to laughter which helps them to realise that frogs are nothing to be frightened of.

Perfect for both school and home settings, ‘The One Where Bert is Scared of Frogs’ makes an excellent starting point for discussing fears and how we deal with them as well as the ways in which good friends support each other. The gorgeous illustrations are a real joy and children will love to return to this story- and the others in the series- again and again!

Frank and Bert: The One Where Bert is Scared of Frogs

Chris Naylor-Ballesteros

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805133971

You can read my review of ‘Frank and Bert’ here , Frank and Bert: The One Where Bert Learns to Ride a Bike’ here, ‘Frank and Bert: The One Where Frank Learns to Play Football’ here and ‘Frank and Bert: The One with the Missing Biscuits’ here and discover some Frank and Bert activities here.

Kill Me Now

When the school ‘golden boy’, Riley North is murdered, Guy Mortimer finds himself accused of murder. Son of the local funeral director, Guy- or ‘Reaper’ as he is called- has been taunted and bullied by Riley and his cronies for years and so seems an obvious suspect. However, keen to clear his name, he teams up with new girl, Samira, to investigate and they are soon joined by classmates, Betty, and Riley’s best friends, Bunsen and Snake. As the murder count grows, Reaper and the others must work together to uncover a tangled web of secrets and lies - and try to survive.

I really didn’t mean to read this one today as it is not out until February, but I thought I would try the first couple of pages…and then could not put it down!

‘Kill Me Now’ is a fast paced, twisty thriller, full of red herrings. As the story races towards its surprising conclusion, the tension mounts and the reader is left with no idea who they can trust or believe!

Dark secrets and lies are at the heart of the story. In a town where religion and being - or being seen to be- perfect is essential, the result is layers of secrets as people hide their true selves. Guy himself is pretending to his parents that everything is going well at school, hiding the fact that his ex-best friend is now bullying him at every opportunity and his family, who run the funeral parlour, do not want anyone to know that he (Guy) has now taken over responsibility for preparing the dead since his mother has become ill. It seems everyone is hiding something - a sin for which they might have to pay the ultimate price.

Gripping from the opening page, ‘Kill Me Now’ is an extremely engaging and satisfying read! Don’t miss it!

Kill Me Now

Helen Price

Chicken House ISBN: 978-1917171144

Publishing 12th February 2026

Magpie Girl

Safely back home in Maidswell after having mysteriously disappeared, Lavender Wild has no memory of her time away from home, but is able to speak to birds and has beautiful, magical feathers growing on her arms. She longs for adventure, but her father is overprotective, keen to keep her close to home, and her best friend, Kit, is now cold and distant towards her. But when Kit’s father goes missing, Lavender and Kit join forces in an attempt to rescue him, uncovering secrets, facing dangers and rebuilding their friendship along the way.

Although set in the world of ‘Heart Seer’, ‘Magpie Girl’ is a stand alone novel, which draws on folklore and legend to create a magical read.

Lavender’s world is vividly described as she sets off on her quest from the village of Maidswell to the Cries, a dormant volcano in the Ironridge Mountains, said to be home to the legendary Firebird, but it is the imaginative cast of characters which really brings this brilliant story to life!

Lavender herself is a wonderful character. Torn between her longing for adventure and her deep love for her home, she has returned from being lost, brought home by Mother Nest, her natural curiosity and zest for life make her feel a deep sense of guilt when she dreams about spreading her wings. Bright, courageous and loyal, she learns to be true to herself and find her place in the world. Both she and Kit are very relatable figures as each bottles up their true feelings, carrying guilt and a sense of responsibility for things which are not their fault. As they rekindle their friendship, which was marred due to misunderstanding and lack of communication, a very special bond develops between them as they help one another, not only with the quest, but also to come to terms with the weight of emotion they carry.

Spirit-hunters, witches, daemons and deities all feature in this adventure - any one of which deserves a story all of their own! Completely enchanting, it is an absorbing book which would make a excellent story time read!

Magpie Girl

Rowan Foxwood, cover illustration by Crystal Kung

Usborne ISBN: 978-1803707389

The Experiment

Nathan is used to keeping secrets. No one must know that he and his parents are from another planet, although his parents don’t like the term ‘aliens’, preferring to say that they are ‘visitors’ from the planet Kast. However, when Nathan suddenly grows a tail, which he calls ‘Tuck’, the family must return to the Wagon, their spaceship, to consult with Hester, the ‘boss’. But something is not right and Nathan soon starts to doubt everything he has been taught to believe…

‘The Experiment’ is a must read for anyone looking for something a little bit quirky, extremely well written and utterly absorbing! Once again, however, it is a story which is hard to review without ruining the plot for those who have not read it, but I have tried not to give too much away.

Nathan is a lovely, gentle lad who quietly submits to all the assessments and routines which he believes are part of his being Kast and enable him to pass as a ‘normal’ boy on Earth. Being with his best friend, Victor, he manages to experience being part of ‘a normal, messy, perfect family’, but is very aware of how different his life is to that of those around him, encouraging empathy from the reader as he reflects on his situation and feelings. Equally well developed is Victor, whose genuine loyalty to his friend is really touching.

Nathan’s plight is gradually exposed, raising many questions about what is happening and why and thus quickly hooking the reader. Intrigued, I found it hard to put down with the short chapters encouraging me to read ‘just one more’ as the pace picked up and the book romped its way to an exciting conclusion. For the right class, this would make an excellent class story, keeping them guessing, predicting and engaged until the very end!

The Experiment

Rebecca Stead

Andersen ISBN: 978-1839137815

The Home that Love Built

When a terrible storm blasts through the forest, it causes chaos, destroying homes and toppling trees. Left with ruins, the animals realise that by working together they can create a new home, built with kindness and love.

Using a cumulative style similar to that of ‘This is the house that Jack Built’, ‘The Home that Love Built’ is a gorgeous book, celebrating teamwork and friendship.

The book is perfect for reading aloud, using alliteration and onomatopoeia to help build the sounds of the storm and then adding to the sense of calm in the aftermath. The illustrations are an absolute joy, full of colour and details to notice like the mother bird trying desperately to shelter her young with her wing or the mice clinging together, stranded on a rock in the water.

As the animals work together to rebuild, the cumulative style of the text really emphasises how each contributes to the whole, perfect for sparking conversations about teamwork and a combined effort can produce results which benefit a whole community rather than just an individual. Even when they think they are safe, the animals must join together to overcome another threat to their safety. No one gives up- the pictures show that everyone, great and small, does their best for the benefit of all.

Even the end papers contribute to the story! At the beginning of the book, dark clouds are forming at the edge of the picture whilst at the end the scene is sunny and bright. My favourite illustration is the final one where all the animals of the forest are gathered together, safe and happy, in their home built by love.

The Home that Love Built

Jessica Meserve

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1838919870

You can read my review of ‘Our Tree’ here.

Where the Dragon Waits

Whilst out sailing, Ed and his dad are involved in a crash. When he comes to, Ed finds himself on a strange beach. There is no sign of his dad, but he meets Steff, who is also stranded with no idea where she is. Driven away from the beach by strange butterflies, they find themselves on an extraordinary quest to find the dragon who lives at the top of a rocky spire- and who is their only hope for finding their way home.

I love Tom Moorhouse’s ‘The River Singers’ so I was really excited to discover ‘Where the Dragon Waits’. Although a very different style of book, it was just as well written and enjoyable!

Compelling from the very first page, ‘Where the Dragon Waits’ mingles fantasy with reality. After the accident, Ed finds himself trapped in a strange reality, struggling to make sense of the world around him. As he and his new companion, Steff, search for answers, they are drawn more deeply into a wonderfully imagined world, full of strange creatures and perilous situations. At the same time, the reader realises that Ed’s parents are anxiously waiting by his hospital bed as he lies in a critical condition after the boat crash.

A very relatable character, it is easy to empathise with Ed. Whereas Steff is impetuous and a little over-bearing, he shows himself to be thoughtful and kind-hearted, facing tough choices with courage and determination. As the plot builds to its very satisfying conclusion, readers will find themselves cheering him on every step of the way.

This wonderfully original and absorbing story would make an excellent class story, offering plenty for a class to enjoy, sure to provoke plenty of discussion and debate as well as inspiring them to create descriptive and imaginative tales of their own. An excellent read!

Where the Dragon Waits

Tom Moorhouse

David Fickling ISBN: 978-1788453837

Publishing January 2026

Watts and Whiskerton: The Great Glacier Hotel Heist

Watts is delighted to be going on his first family holiday- a trip with no detecting- and is thrilled that his friend, Pearl, and her dad are coming too. However, it soon becomes clear that The Great Glacier Hotel and Ski Resort has become a crime scene- and his parents are prime suspects. Watts and Whiskerton swing into action and get ready to solve their third case…

‘The Great Glacier Hotel Heist’ continues this delightful series with another brilliant adventure for Watts and Pearl. This new mystery is every bit as enjoyable as the previous two, testing the observational and deductive powers of readers!

Once again, visual story telling is a key element of the tale with speech bubbles and comic strip elements embedded into the narrative along with other illustrations. Highly engaging, the pictures add much to the story, offering newly independent readers support. Each chapter concludes with ‘Watts’ notes’ in which he summarises the action, lists the facts and poses questions. These are excellent for developing prediction, inference and deduction as well as offering an excellent starting point for discussion and developing ideas if the story is being shared.

In the hands of the right teacher, the illustrations could be used to develop children’s understanding of speech, speech punctuation, using speech synonyms and/or developing reporting clauses. Watts’ speech bubble on page 75 would also make a great introduction to note making! The story would make a really fun class read and children could be encouraged to make their own notebooks and use them to keep their own notes to help them solve the case!

Great characters, an engaging case and lashings of lovely illustrations… the perfect combination for a Watts and Whiskerton mystery!

Watts and Whiskerton: The Great Glacier Hotel Heist

Meg McLaren

Piccadilly ISBN: 978-1800786639

You can read my review of ‘Sabotage at the Fete Cake Bake’ here and ‘Buried Bones and Troublesome Treasure’ here.

Owl King

Ilsette has always been protected by her sister, Lyla. Being half-human, half-faery would make her an outcast if anyone in the Realm of Never Moon found out and Lyla would do anything for her sister. However, summoned by the dark, dangerous Owl King to his court, they, along with everyone else, are compelled to obey and when Ilsette’s beautiful singing voice attracts his attention, Lyla seeks to distract him and finds herself being chosen as his next wife. Horrified to learn that the Owl King takes feathers from his brides, draining them of their magic, Ilsette pledges to find a feather which will save her sister’s life. Meanwhile, Lyla seeks to save herself by telling the Owl King stories, giving them time to become close and changing the relationship between them.

Rich in folklore and fantasy, ‘Owl King’ is a beautifully told tale. The strength of love between the two sisters is at the heart of story as each tries to protect and support the other in the face great peril and self-sacrifice.

Islette adores her sister. Without the nurture and protection Lyra has offered her all her life, Islette knows that she would never have survived the cruelty of the fae who hate humans, but their bond goes far deeper than gratitude. Lyra is her ‘companion…comfort…compass’ and yet as Islette spreads her wings and sets out on her own to save her sister, she longs to learn who she truly is, not what she has had to become, hiding her true self and staying in the shadows. Courageous and resourceful, she finds her own way, forming new friendships, but never forgetting her sister.

The story draws on ‘Swan Lake’ and ‘One Thousand and One Nights’, mingled with the darker side of the Fae. Atmospheric and compelling, it intertwines the stories of the two sisters with tales told of the other faeries.

Owl King

Bex Hogan

Zephyr ISBN: 978-1035912681

The Dreamies

Whilst you sleep, the Dreamies, tiny, playful creatures who live in the walls of the house, create wonderful dreams, full of colour and fun. However, sometimes they get distracted and dreams can get bigger and out of control, turning into nightmares. But with some imagination, a little practice and a bit of help from the Dreamies, these bad dreams can be chased away.

With top tips from Gemma Coe, a child sleep specialist, parents are sure to find ‘The Dreamies’ a very comforting and reassuring story to share with little ones who are having trouble with nightmares.

The Dreamies are presented as whimsical, fairy-like creatures who bring joy and imagination to dreams. Their special job is depicted as leading children through adventures as they sleep. For children who experience nightmares, it may well be helpful for parents to use the tactics employed by the Dreamies to find ways to take control of their nightmares, imagining something funny or reassuring to alter the path of their dream, helping children to feel safer at night.

The illustrations offer plenty to discuss and enjoy, celebrating the power of the imagination to create vibrant stories and take flights of fancy, making this a lovely story perfect as part of a bedtime routine!

The Dreamies

Iona Campbell

Magic Cat ISBN: 978-1915669806

Published 8th January 2026

Snow

Every day, the Princess digs in the endless snow of Mistmir, desperately seeking something which will restore her kingdom to what it once was. The sudden appearance of a mysterious girl gives the Princess hope she might be able to undo the foolish wish she once made and she is determined to take the girl- Ela- to her father, the King. But Ela is alarmed to find herself face to face with the Snow Princess whose picture is on the cover of her favourite book- a book her mother has now locked away and won’t let her read. The girls must work together to unravel family secrets and set things right.

With a wonderfully wintery setting, ‘Snow’ is a magical story, perfect for this time of year.

The Princess- Karina-is beautifully captured. Craving attention and affection from her father and confused by her much-loved aunt’s behaviour, she makes a rash wish which leads to chaos for her kingdom. The guilt she carries for this is almost palpable as she strives to correct her mistake and maintain the ‘standards’ of being a princess which have been hammered into her all her life. As the story develops, the ache of her loneliness will make even the most hard hearted reader empathise with her and celebrate the brave choices she makes as the book reaches its climax. Ela is also a lonely child, struggling with school and the loss of her ex-best friend, and eager to learn more about the curious book which her mother now seems so determined to hide from her.

A slow start allows for some excellent world building with vivid descriptions and details, making the perfect backdrop to the story as it picks up pace, whisking readers into an incredible adventure, full of magic and mystery, family and friendship.

A thoroughly enjoyable read!

Snow

Meera Trehan

Walker ISBN: 978-1529528787

Meowy Christmas!

When Tiddles the cat awakes from a sleep, he is horrified to discover that he has managed to nap through the appearance of a tree in his living room. Puzzled by the fact that his humans seem to like this tree, Tiddles decides to investigate…

Anyone who has had a cat will be familiar with the feline frolics in ‘Meowy Christmas!’ as Tiddles causes plenty of kitty chaos.

Lively, action-packed illustrations offer plenty of visual humour as Tiddles explores the tree in the most cat-like way, his insatiable cat-curiosity leading him into one pickle after another. The text offers a cat’s eye view of what’s going on, giving children even more to giggle at as they recognise things which he doesn’t- a jolly little red and white man, the shiny little balls and the winking and blinking little lights which are the final straw for Tiddles!

Adults and children will enjoy predicting what will happen next as the story ends with Tiddles set to ‘investigate’ another sparkly object, but the story is also perfect for helping little ones to understand the potential problems when mixing pets and festive decorations- and it might remind a few older ones too!

Meowy Christmas!

Panos Christodoulou, illustrated by Daniela Stamatiadi, translated by Manos Bonanos

Post Wave ISBN: 978-1836270386

Flush It Down: The Story of Sewers Through Time

Any teacher will tell you that one of the most frequently asked questions when on a history based trip will be around how people used to go to the loo! This very human fascination with this very human function is comprehensively covered in this surprisingly interesting book!

Having started with a focus on poo entitled ‘Ew Gross!’ which explains not only what it is, but also why we find it so distasteful, the author moves on to a look at poo through the ages from prehistoric to modern times. Developments in toilet technology across the world are covered as well as the devastating impact of the deadly diseases spread by dirty living conditions.

The book is packed with entertaining illustrations and plenty of word play and puns, adding much humour to the subject. However, more serious issues around the problems of human waste and dealing with these challenges today are also raised with a look at future, more sustainable solutions.

A fun addition to any bookshelf, ‘Flush It Down’ is full of historical and scientific information, allowing readers to discover more about sewers through time!

Flush It Down: The Story of Sewers Through Time

Rob Flowers

Cicada ISBN: 978-1800660649

Skulkmoor

When Aunt Carmelia fails to notice which twin, Clementine or Rosie, was born first, the girls find themselves pitted against one another in a feud to decide which should become the heir. As sibling rivalry turns to hatred, they build a great wall to divide the house, setting off a family feud and when the twins are found dead, the enmity between the two sides of the family intensifies. With their grandchildren caught up in the hatred, cousins Iris and Ted are faced with competing against one another for the inheritance or the estate passing to another living relative. As they pit their wits against one another, family secrets and lies are exposed, forcing them to work together to uncover the truth.

If you are looking for an exciting mystery, then ‘Skulkmoor’ is essential reading! Clever plotting, a twisty trail of clues, hints of humour and feuding family all make this a thoroughly enjoyable, highly engaging read.

The house and its inhabitants are vividly described, careful details adding much to the story as the mystery unfolds. Iris and Ted have grown up loathing each other, caught up in the family feud and their feelings of righteous indignation that the other side of the family has got away with murder. Told from the perspective of each in turn, dark secrets and skulduggery are exposed , leading to a very exciting and satisfying conclusion.

‘Skulkmoor’ would make an excellent class story with plenty to discuss and debate along the way as more and more clues -and red herrings - are revealed. The tale shows how misinformation, misdirection and being blind about the motivations and actions of others in the light of preconceptions can lead to being horribly wrong about people, offering plenty to talk about whilst enjoying what is an excellent read!

This is one of those stories which is hard to review without giving too much away, but memorable characters, an intriguing setting and a brilliantly tangled puzzle to solve make it one not to be missed! (And make sure you remove the dust jacket from the hardback to reveal a map of Skulkmoor Manor beneath!)

Skulkmoor

Hana Tooke, illustrated by Ayesha L. Rubio

Puffin ISBN: 978-0241635827