Yetis Don’t Exist!

When Iggy, the Yeti, hears the news that ‘Yetis Don’t Exist!’, he and his friends decide that they have to set off on a human search to prove that yetis are indeed real. But no matter how hard they look, there’s not a human to be found!

What a delightful romp of joy ‘Yetis Don’t Exist!’ is! It’s a wonderfully wintery read, full of fun and gathering giggles, and although not really a Christmas book, is sure to be quickly added to everyone’s favourite festive reads!

Illustrations and text work together perfectly with the pictures showing many details which the unobservant humans -or yetis- in the middle of the action completely miss, allowing those sharing the story to share the joke and explore the tales of other creatures which don’t exist…or do they?!

Showing new friends can be found anywhere and that there is magic in mystery, ‘Yetis Don’t Exist!’ is just the sort of brightly-coloured, fun-filled story which children- and their adults- love!

Yetis Don’t Exist!

Kate Thompson, illustrated by Loretta Schauer

Templar ISBN: 978-1800788237

The House on the Canal

In the middle of Amsterdam, by the canal, stands a tall, narrow building. Over the years, this house has been used for many purposes and seen many residents, including those hiding from persecution. Today, it is known as the Anne Frank Haus.

‘The House on the Canal’ is a powerful gem of a book which charts the changing fortunes of a house over about 400 years. The diversity of its occupants and uses over the years is fascinating in itself, but this is also the house which sheltered Anne Frank, her family and others whilst they hid from persecution. Anne and her family are not named- ‘a tall man in a fine suit’ rented the house and his daughter was ‘a young girl with a sweet smile’- although notes at the beginning and end of the book make it clear that this is their story as much as that of the house.

The illustrations perfectly breathe life into the changing face of the house and its inhabitants as the text tells of its fortunes and their lives. Ethereal and atmospheric, they greatly contribute to the poignancy of the house’s history and give a sense of the layers and mysteries of history. Dates are given, allowing the reader to follow the chronology of events and further details are given at the end of the book, adding to the information given in the story.

The book obviously is an excellent addition to any collection supporting learning about Anne Frank and her family as well as introducing them to the Anne Frank House, perhaps inspiring a desire to visit this very special place. However, it also offers the opportunity to look at buildings in the locality and perhaps trace their history and that of those who pass through their doors. ‘The House on the Canal’ is a very moving, beautifully presented celebration of one house’s history, ‘the old house on the canal’ visited today by so many people from all over the world.

The House on the Canal: The story of the house that hid Anne Frank

Thomas Harding, illustrated by Britta Teckentrup

Walker Books ISBN:978-1529520323

Gold Rush

In this extraordinary book, author/ illustrator, Flora Delargy, explores the stories of not only Shaaw Tlaa, the woman who discovered gold in Yukon Territory, but of other brave ladies who ignored the declaration that the gold fields were ‘no place for women’, seeking riches and adventure.

A fascinating introduction to the area and the First Nations people who lived there sets the scene for the events which followed the discovery of gold in the region. This information is presented with great respect for these people and their way of life, clearly showing the negative ways in which colonisation affected them. The reader is then introduced to Shaaw Tlaa, who either adopted or was given the name Kate and who is thought to be the first person to discover gold. However, due to being a woman and of First Nations origin, it was her husband, George’s name in which this was registered, not hers.

Exploring the fascination of gold through history, the book then offers some background as to why the lure of gold prospecting was so great for so many people. The following three sections are then devoted to the experiences of three other women: Martha Black, Belinda Mulrooney and Nellie Cashman. Their stories are sensitively explored, reflecting the hardships, prejudices and limitations they faced as they fought to find their place in what was undeniably a man’s world. The book also reflects on how these women gave back to the community after the devastating consequences of the gold rush- and its sudden ending. Finally, the book returns to pick up the story of Shaaw Tlaa or Kate Carmack, explaining how she was cruelly rejected by her husband and lost custody of her daughter before returning home to discover that her village has been displaced.

The book is both fascinating and inspirational. Always mindful of the need to enrich the curriculum and broaden understanding, ‘Gold Rush’ would make an excellent guided reading text to share with children, to use when considering explorers or as inspiration for an assembly about courage and perseverance. Beautifully illustrated, there is much to notice and enjoy on each page. Not only is there a glossary, but also a list of the sources used, helping children to understand how authors research their subject and possibly generate questions about the need to check the credibility of these.

Gold Rush: The untold story of the First Nations woman who started the Klondike Gold Rush

Flora Delargy

Wide Eyed ISBN: 978-0711263871

The Circular Square

Square finds his edges and corners hard to deal with. They are always getting bashed and Square is quite miserable. However, he quickly realises that dwelling on his problems is not helpful and by making the best of things, he can be far happier. Every knock and tumble helps to make him a far more rounded individual.

‘The Circular Square’ is a wonderfully up-lifting and positive story which encourages readers to look for the positives in life even when things get tough. The lively rhyming text is accompanied by an appealing cast of shape characters who vividly bring the story to life.

Through focusing on the little things in life which make him happy in the moment and accepting that life is full of ups and downs, Square becomes a far happier individual, shaped by his experiences and the rewards of perseverance. The book is perfect for sharing in assemblies or as the basis for a PSHE lesson, and although targeted at a younger audience, carries a message which can be positively shared with older children too. The phrases describing the ‘little things that make him feel alive’ like ‘the sparkle of the sea’, ‘the gentle warmth of autumn sun’ or ‘the zing of homemade lemonade’ could easily be used to inspire the writing of precious things poems or lists. Further ideas for this are given at the end of the book where both the author and illustrator share a list of five things which make them happy - and offer a space for readers to do the same.

The story is brimming with a positivity which acknowledges that life is not perfect, but is definitely what you make it!

The Circular Square

Simon Philip, illustrated by Neil Clark

Templar ISBN: 978-1800785052

The Search for Carmella

Marine biologist and explorer, Dr Rose loves everything about the sea and since being little, she has loved to listen to tales about a mysterious beast which roams the deep, known as Carmella. With a team of adventurous scientific friends, she sets off with Anne, a brilliant submersible pilot, down into the depths of the deep to see if they can find Carmella.

As Dr Rose and Anne make this special journey together, the reader is treated to the most gorgeous illustrations which are so evocative of the mystery and wonders of the deep- and is immediately able to share the joke as Carmella appears without being noticed by the intrepid explorers! There are so many wonderful details to notice, offering much to discuss and excite curiosity about the depths of the ocean. There are so many humorous touches - the keys to wind the submarine and the boat, the activities of what look like a team of mechanical crabs and so on- which make this a wonderfully engaging and satisfying story to share whether with a class, small group or one-to-one.

There is another theme to this story, however. In her wish to solve the mystery and find Carmella, Dr Rose doesn’t seem to appreciate the full beauty of what she is seeing in the moment. Gentle reminders from Anne are needed to pull her attention to the here and now to enjoy the sights in front of her- a valid lesson for all of us. In her wisdom, Anne reflects that it is not such a bad thing that they haven’t found Carmella as some things are too wonderful to be explained. Such a joyful sentiment!

I absolutely loved ‘The Search for the Giant Arctic Jellyfish’ and am delighted to find that ‘The Search for Carmella’ is just as special.

The Search for Carmella

Chloe Savage

Walker Books ISBN: 978-1529503302

You can read my review of The Search for the Giant Arctic Jellyfish here.

Inkbound: Meticulous Jones and the Skull Tattoo

On her tenth birthday, Meticulous- Metty- Jones, like other 10-year-olds, receives a magical tattoo on her hand which will indicate her fate. However, her excitement in discovering her destiny is dimmed when she sees an ink-black skull, held from underneath by a hand in a violet glove indicating her fate is to be a murderer. Hidden away by her father, Moral Jones, in a remote Welsh farmhouse, Metty tries to come to terms with this, but when Moral disappears, her Aunt Magnificent takes her to the magical city of New London, assuring her that she- Magnificent- will find Metty’s father. But rumours of a mysterious, dangerous society, known as the Black Moths, make Metty wonder whether they are connected to her father’s disappearance and begin to investigate for herself.

There is so much to enjoy in ‘Meticulous Jones and the Skull Tattoo’ that is is hard to know exactly where to begin! It is a cracking read which bounds along at a pleasing pace, full of engaging characters and plenty of action. It’s quite amazing that I have managed to wait until now to review it!

Full of vim and vigour, Metty is a feisty character who shows courage and determination in the face of adversity and great love and loyalty to friends and family. She is an imperfect heroine, with strengths and flaws in equal measure, proving that our fates cannot be predestined, but made by our actions and reactions. As she comes to know Sundar, her aunt’s ward, they form a great partnership, their personalities complementing each other as their friendship develops. He is another very appealing character, enigmatic and cautious, the perfect foil to Metty’s impulsiveness. Faith O’Connell is another great character, once again proving the importance of forging your own path in life.

The world building is an absolute delight. Great attention to detail makes the story rich, increasing the reader’s enjoyment on every page. From the family names to the magic of ink, from the wonders of New London to the Dictionary of Fates, everything has been carefully thought about so the world flows seamlessly. It’s a world I look forward to returning to in future books!

Inkbound: Meticulous Jones and the Skull Tattoo

Philippa Leathley

Harper Collins ISBN: 978-0063376519

Published January 28th 2025

Rise and Fall: Great Empires that Shaped the World

‘Rise and Fall’ looks at nine fascinating civilisations which rose to power and influence. The real joy of this book is that most of these empires sit outside those commonly taught in the primary curriculum, enriching children’s knowledge and understanding of the world. For teachers, the book is an invaluable resource for adding some breadth to their pupils’ learning, enabling them to draw parallels, note similarities and differences and make them familiar with civilisations possibly unknown to them. For individuals, it offers a fascinating read which may well inspire further investigation!

The civilisations are presented in chronological order, starting with the Minoans, named after the mythical King Minos, who was believed to have ruled Crete and the surrounding area. Lively illustrations, captions and text over four double pages follow the fortunes of the empire from its origins to its decline. The lives of the people, their customs and culture, religion, art and architecture are all explored. Having visited that area, I found the information about the Mali Empire particularly interesting and enjoyed the section on the Kamakura Shogunate for the same reason. The pages on the Kingdom of Ayutthaya were fascinating- this really is a book to be enjoyed.

Personally, the font used for the captions which adopts the use of capital ‘R’ throughout is really annoying. I am sure this was chosen for some aesthetic purpose which eludes me, but it is not helpful. I would also have liked to see maps included, highlighting the location of each civilisation. However, there is more to recommend this book than not! I really enjoyed it.

Rise and Fall: Great Empires that Shaped the World

Peter Allen

Cicada ISBN: 978-1800660489

Frank and Bert: The One Where Bert Plays Football

Frank is teaching Bert all about football. Sometimes things go wrong, but Bert has a new ball and the two best friends are ready to play. When Frank spots Barbara, the best football player ever, he is delighted that she agrees to have a game with him, forgetting all about poor old Bert. But as Frank finds himself in a spot of trouble, it is his best friend Bert who is there to save him!

The latest in this lovely series about best friends, Frank and Bert, ‘The One Where Bert Plays Football’ is every bit as heartwarming and endearing as the others. Frank and Bert are very different characters, but this enhances their friendship, proving the old adage ‘opposites attract’. Good natured and loveable, Bert often obviously needs help with things and Frank is always there to support him; however, the stories show that Bert brings much to the friendship as well.

Children often experience difficulties negotiating friendships and managing to include others who might appear to be jeopardising a close relationship or taking someone away from them. In this story, Frank is dazzled by Barbara’s footie skills, flattered that she should want to play with him and so neglects his best buddie. But when the going gets tough, it is Bert who is there for Frank, proving his loyalty once again. The story offers plenty to discuss and offers opportunities for role play and drama activities to explore the feelings of the different characters and how they acted.

Although Bert is not a natural football player, Frank helps him to develop skills which play to his strengths and allow him to feel success. The illustrations are full of gentle humour and celebrate the wonderful friendship Frank and Bert share through the whole range of emotions they experience through its ups and downs. Each book in this series is an absolute joy and I hope there are many more to come!

Frank and Bert: The One Where Bert Plays Football

Chris Naylor- Ballesteros

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805134923

You can read my review of ‘Frank and Bert’ here, The One Where Bert Learns to Ride a Bike’ here and ‘The One With the Missing Biscuits’ here.

The Party

When Bessie and her friends decide to attend a secret party at a remote and desolate castle, they are looking forward to a brilliant weekend. However, things quickly start to go wrong and as the weather worsens, one of their number dies…followed by another…and another… Left suspecting everyone, is there anyone one Bessie can trust and will she get out alive?

I’ll just read a couple of pages before getting on with some work, I said to myself! However, once I started reading ‘The Party’ there was no way I was going to stop until I’d finished.

Trapped in the castle by the storm and the flooding moat, a group of friends from boarding school quickly find themselves facing danger. The castle is owned by the parents of twins, Allegra and Fergus, whose plans to develop the building into luxury flats has caused outrage and hostility from the locals. When exploring the (vividly described!) castle, Bessie is unsettled to discover threatening graffiti in the cellar which she ascribes to this group. Her feelings of unease are shared by the reader as tension quickly mounts and the situation moves from bad to worse.

As ever when reviewing a book like this, it is really hard find a balance between doing the book justice whilst not spoiling it for those yet to read it, but I’ll try to be careful. After a steady start, scattered with details and hints about the group and their relationships, the story builds quickly, gaining pace as the suspense and action mount. There are plenty of red herrings as the reader is left guessing and second guessing as the death count mounts in a scenario reminiscent of ‘And Then there were None’ as you find the very person you thought was doing it couldn’t have- or could they?! It’s a real page turner, leading to a very satisfying and unexpected conclusion.

If you enjoy a good murder mystery, ‘The Party’ is a must read!

The Party

Natasha Preston

Hot Key Books ISBN: 978-1471418266

Squeak! Squawk! Roar! Amazing Animal Poems

‘Squeak! Squawk! Roar!’ is a vibrant collection of poems celebrating the diverse and wonderful world of animals. From elephants to mice, cobras to chimpanzees, there is much to enjoy in these pages.

With so many lovely poems, it is hard to select just one or two to highlight in a review! However, I have done my best… For a cat-lover like me, ‘A Cat’s Day In’ is an absolute delight, capturing the essence of a cat’s activities as it tip-toes on its ‘quilted paws’ with a ‘mew of indecision’. Of course, dog fans might prefer ‘A Dog’s View’ which follows! ‘A Cat’s Day In’ is a joy to read aloud- and would make a wonderful performance piece for a class! great fun, ‘A Wombat is a Non-Bat’ is a delicious bit of fun, highlighting all the endearing qualities of these lovely creatures and ‘Dance of the Penguins’ is a wonderful example of how a few, carefully chosen words can so vividly encapsulate an idea.

The poems are accompanied by charming illustrations, one of my favourites being the cheeky little hamster. The collection is perfect for dipping in and out of and many of the poems could enliven odd moments between lessons, be enjoyed at story time or linked to work on animals in the curriculum as well as inspiring children to create their own verses. Great fun!

Squeak! Squawk! Roar! Amazing Animal Poems

Kate Williams, illustrated by Hannah Asen

Otter-Barry Books ISBN: 978-1915659552

Publication date: 9th January

I Flew Around the World

At just 19, Zara Rutherford set off to fly solo around the world, becoming the youngest female pilot to do so. ‘I Flew Around the World’ is her account of this incredible journey, the places she visited, things she saw and people she met.

The book is a fascinating read, starting with the meticulous planning which led to turning her dream into reality. Extremely engaging, the content is presented in a variety of ways, including diary entries, sections of information, fact boxes and labelled diagrams. Colourful illustrations make the book attractive, but there are also photos of Zara, her cats and her experiences which engage the reader directly with her travels.

Children can follow the route of her inspirational journey on the map provided and learn how her plane works before sharing her adventures, gaining a personal view of the places she visited, as she faced the challenges posed by typhoons, earthquakes, wildfires on her way. Amongst these experiences, she shares some of the ‘speciality’ dishes she tried- like moose spaghetti- and her delight at meeting up with her parents in Mexico.

The book would make an excellent addition to school libraries, but would also make an excellent guided reading text, offering plenty to discuss and many cross-curricular links as well as being extremely inspirational, showing that determination and courage can help you achieve your dreams. Zara is also a shining role model for any young girls, particularly those keen to pursue STEM subjects- she is now studying electrical engineering at university. However, I challenge anyone not to be inspired by her story!

I Flew Around the World

Zara Rutherford, illustrated by Jiatong Liu

DK ISBN: 978-0241662311

A Poem for Every Day of Christmas

Should auld acquaintance be forgot,

and never brought to mind?

Should auld acquaintance be forgot

and auld lang syne!

What other poem would be as perfect for today’s entry in a book of poems for this time of year? And, indeed, the poem selected by Allie Esiri for the 31st December is ‘Auld Lang Syne’.

Offering a collection of thirty-one poems, one for each day of December, ‘A Poem for Every Day of Christmas’ combines well-known carols and verses with some lesser-known poems. As the days pass, the choices reflect the anticipation and growing excitement of the season, mixing humour and poignancy, some dwelling on the religious significance of Christmas and some on the secular.

As perfect for sharing as for reading alone, the book offers an advent calendar of poems to be enjoyed- but be warned! Once started, it is very hard to resist flicking through the pages and delighting in each new offering. The eloquence of Christina Rossetti’s ‘In the Deep Midwinter’ one day contrasts beautifully with the joy of ‘Needles’, a wonderful shape poem by Brian Bilston; the traditional cumulative fun of ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’ is followed by the humour of ‘On the Thirteen Day’, again by Brian Bilston. Teachers might enjoy sharing these, perhaps playing some of the traditional carols included, with their classes or in an assembly as much as families and friends will be entertained by them at home!

Although several of these poems also appear in ‘A Poem for Every Winter’s Day’ also edited by Allie Esiri, there is no doubting that this is a festive collection which can be enjoyed every year.

A Poem for Every Day of Christmas

Edited by Allie Esiri

Macmillan ISBN: 978-1035068388

Hunt for the Golden Scarab

Sim’s mum works as a cleaner at Sir John Soane’s Museum where the two live in the attic flat. They never stay anywhere for long but, for the first time, Sim is attending the local school instead of being homeschooled. When some sinister strangers appear at the museum one night, Sim is left with even more unanswered questions about who his mum is- and what she is hiding from. Learning that she has the power to open doors in time, he finds himself on the adventure of a lifetime to locate the golden heart scarab of Nefertiti before the mysterious Council of Keys lay their hands on it- and him.

Combining all the classic elements of exciting adventure story with time travel, ‘Hunt for the Golden Scarab’ is a fast-moving, action-packed romp of a read, rich in historical and locational details which will leave readers desperate for more. It is also one of those books which is so hard to review without spoiling for others!

Sim’s adventure starts in London before taking him to Egypt – ancient and modern. With his school friend, Nelson, supporting him at home and his newly found cousin, Jeopardy, accompanying him on his travels, well developed characters are a real strength of this story, including the adults. Sim’s mother, Callidora, has brought her son up on her own and is portrayed as strong (physically and mentally), capable and resourceful, facilitating her son’s development and taking an active part in the story rather than being killed off, kidnapped or somehow lost along the way. Similarly, her brother, Emmett, who she warns Sim is untrustworthy, is far more nuanced than many adults in children’s stories, enriching the plot and promising more in future books.

Locations are also well developed and engaging, sure to spark curiosity and interest. Sir John Soane’s Museum is a fascinating place, crammed with treasures, well worth visiting and yet, perhaps, one of London’s less well-known attractions. Details about Sir John and other historic places and events mentioned in the story are offered in Nelson’s ‘Time Traveller’s Diary’, included at the end of the book. Tutankhamun’s tomb and places in Egypt are also carefully described and there is a ‘Key’s Guide to Ancient Egypt’ which helps to explain some of the key figures and events relating to that part of the action.

A love of music and a fascination with history permeate the story, enhancing the reader’s enjoyment of this epic adventure!

Time Keys: Hunt for the Golden Scarab

M G Leonard, illustrated by Manuel Šumberac

Macmillan ISBN: 978-1035005963

Publication date: 30th January 2025

You can read my review of The Arctic Railway Assassin here and Sabotage on the Solar Express here.

My Path

Every morning, a little snail sets off to follow their Path. Sometimes this path is shared by others; sometimes it is a lonely one; sometimes hard or unexpected. But the snail knows that it is their Path, their unique way forwards and, as long as it feels like the right thing to do, it is theirs to follow.

‘My Path’ is a delightful story about making your own decisions and choosing not to follow the crowd, but forge your own way in life. The little snail’s determination and perseverance when faced with difficult choices, their choice to ask for help when needed and the courage of their convictions, all lend themselves to discussions, supporting children to understand that they too can ‘walk the road less travelled’ and value their individuality or choose to follow the same path as others as long as this is the right path for them.

When the snail is met by those who challenge their decisions and try to tell them that they are following the wrong path, the story tell us that the snail considers what they are being told before continuing, drawing attention to the fact that not everyone agrees about things and that this is ok, but that is also fine to consider other opinions. There is no need for confrontation, name calling or animosity, but for each to follow the path they have chosen

The illustrations are delightful with the expressive face of the snail showing the range of emotions it experiences on the path it has chosen. No name is given so any child can identify with this appealing individual as they follow their own path.

My Path

Jana Curll

Nosy Crow ISBN: ‎ 978-1805134244

Mondays are Murder

After the death of her friend, Ivy, Kay thought she had left Longrove for good. However, when her parents go on a cruse to celebrate their twentieth wedding anniversary, she finds herself sent back there, ‘dumped’ on her Uncle Dara and her cousin, Nikki. Just as she thinks things can’t get any worse, she finds a letter on her bed, a letter telling her that there will be a thrill on Tuesday, a wreckage on Wednesday, treachery on Thursday, a fire on Friday, sabotage on Saturday, a stabbing on Sunday - and her murder on Monday.

From the first page, ‘Mondays are Murder’ is a gripping read, full of red herrings and twists which all build to a very satisfying conclusion.

As well as the death of Ivy, Longrove is also full of memories of her Aunt Sandra, Nikki’s mother, idolised by Kay for her ability to solve puzzles and the work she used to do as a detective. Whilst looking through some of her things, Kay and Nikki discover a notebook which suggests that Aunt Sandra was conducting her own investigation into Ivy’s death, adding another layer of intrigue and mystery to the story, intertwining with the girls’ determination to discover the identity of Monday and prevent Kay’s predicted murder.

Flashbacks to past events are interspersed through the action, affording readers a glimpse of the events which led to Ivy’s death and offering clues and misdirection along the way. The plot is skilfully constructed, combining murder mystery with thriller whilst exploring family dynamics, relationships and grief. Dark in places, the combination of compelling action, appealing characters and an atmospheric setting make this a compulsive read!

Mondays are Murder

Ravena Guron

Usborne ISBN: 978-1805075707

Santa’s First Christmas

Usually, after working hard all year making toys and then delivering these on Christmas Eve, Santa celebrates the big day with an extra half an hour’s lie in. However, when a passing polar bear points out that this is not much of a celebration, the elves are determined to give Santa a proper Christmas!

The title, ‘Santa’s First Christmas’, refers not to the first time he sets off to deliver presents, but to his first actual celebration of Christmas Day- and the book is a joy from start to finish! Having surprised Santa with breakfast in bed, the elves then take him to choose a tree, decorate it, hang stockings and create a Christmas feast. They are even visited by someone ‘with a beard, dressed in red, with a sack full of gifts’!

The story is perfect for discussing the really important (non-religious) things about the festive season. Sharing, being kind to others, noticing when someone needs a bit of TLC, building traditions, being together… as the elves at last realise that Santa himself could do with a day enjoying himself, they are determined to make it the best day they can and they do this, not by offering the most expensive gifts, but through time and companionship- even when they send him away for dipping his finger in the icing!

The level of humour is just right for both adults and children to enjoy with just the right amount of text to complement the fabulous illustrations. With glowing lights, falling snow and warm firelight, the pictures capture the spirit of an idyllic Christmas. A must read for this Christmas- and all those still to come!

Santa’s First Christmas

Mac Barnett, illustrated by Sydney Smith

Puffin ISBN: ‎978-0241711392

Become a Chess Champion

‘Become a Chess Champion’ is an excellent guide for beginners to the challenges and enjoyment of the game of chess.

Comical chess pieces full of personality introduce the reader to how they can move, their value in a game and their strengths and weaknesses. All the information is clearly presented with humour, making it engaging and easy to follow. The author then moves on the explain some of the technical terminology connected to the game, supported by diagrams which offer further explanation. Everything is fully explained and at a pace which allows readers to fully absorb each point before moving on.

The ’how to’ advice is interspersed with information about the history of the game and famous chess players. Readers can learn about the invention of the folding chess board, the development of computer chess and chess games in space. There are also ‘Solve the Puzzle’ pages which offer chess challenges to consider, offering support and developing understanding of the game.

For schools with chess clubs, children learning at home and families wanting to play together, ‘Become a Chess Champion’ offers an excellent introduction to the game, with the expert advice of James Canty III and appealing illustrations from Brian Lambert.

Become a Chess Champion

James Canty III, illustrated by Brian Lambert

Neon Squid     ISBN: 978-1838993627

Kevin and the Blackbirds

Sent to a monastery because his parents are too poor to care for him, Kevin is happy, although he misses his family. When he finishes his work, he is at his happiest, roaming the woods and making friends with the animals; however, as time passes, he is told it is time to leave his wild friends behind and start to grow up. One day, when reaching out through his window, a blackbird lands in his hands and is soon joined by its mate as they start to build a nest. Amazed by what is happening, the monks care for Kevin as he remains still with the nest in his hands until the birds first lay eggs, the young hatch and then fledge the nest. The monks realise that they were wrong to try to change Kevin and gave him his freedom once more.

In his author’s note, David Almond explains how this story is an adaptation of an Irish legend about a saint called Kevin. The Kevin in this story, however, is not a saint, but a normal, everyday boy whose love of nature leads him to offer care and safety to vulnerable creatures and, in doing so, shows others the importance of nurturing and cherishing living things, cultivating a love of nature. The story is sensitively told: Kevin is loved by his parents, who part with him reluctantly and in the hope of reclaiming him once they are able to; he revels in the joys of nature, the freedom it offers and the wide range of its wonders, leading to his determination to offer the use of his hands as a safe place of refuge to the birds, regardless of the discomfort and difficulties this might cause him.

P J Lynch’s artwork is always stunning and the illustrations in ‘Kevin and the Blackbirds’ are just incredible. Brimming with emotion, they capture Kevin’s misery, joy, laughter and hope, immersing the reader in his story. Each is so rich in detail that it offers a myriad of potential tales to be explored and told by those enjoying looking at them. One of my favourites is that of Kevin’s delighted eyes shining over the top of the nest in his outstretched hands as she watches the chicks hatching from their eggs!

Perfect for sharing at home, the book also offers much for teachers, whether for a story time, assembly or for using as inspiration for drama work, writing, storytelling and art work. It is a thing of great beauty, both in illustration and the message at its heart.

Kevin and the Blackbirds

David Almond, illustrated by P J Lynch

Walker Books ISBN: 978-1529509533

100 Ways to Save the Planet

There are many books available which talk about the damage being done to the planet, but in ‘100 Ways to Save the Planet’, author Tom Jordon not only clarifies what he means by ‘saving the planet’, but makes that ‘dramatic’ statement seem more achievable by offering practical, simple suggestions for ways in which readers can actually take action.

Starting with a ‘Green Superhero Footprint’ which suggests a fun way of recording how many of the activities have been achieved, the book offers one hundred ideas for engaging with nature or changing lifestyle which will help the reader become an Ultimate Green Superhero. Perhaps they might try ‘plogging’, discover the Norwegian philosophy of ‘friluftsliv’, check products for palm oil without the RSPO logo or those which contain nurdles and microbeads, those nasty little bits of plastic which are so harmful.

There are things which can be done at school as well as at home, making this an excellent book for teachers to share with classes as well as for families to enjoy. Simple steps like allowing verges to remain unmown, creating a bug neighbourhood, making a magic pond or reminding everyone to switch electrical devices off would all make engaging community activities for schools to engage with, encouraging people to see that the smallest steps can make the biggest difference.

Full of engaging illustrations, this is a very enjoyable and absorbing read.

100 Ways to Save the Planet

Tom Jordan, illustrated by Joshua Rice

Button Books ISBN: 978-1787081567

Wisdom of the Woods

‘Wisdom of the Woods’ is a beautiful treasury, offering forty poems which celebrate the joys and the wonders of nature. Set in the world of Brown Bear Wood, the poems pass the wisdom of Nature’s ancient laws to the next generation.

Gathered into eight different sections, the poems explore a wealth of topics, including pollination, evergreens, fungi, grass, chlorophyll… Rachel Piercey does not ‘dumb down’ her writing and as a result, the poems are not only informative and enjoyable, but richly written, using a wide vocabulary. A glossary at the end of the book offers support with clear explanations of the scientific terms used- metamorphic, lenticel, omnivore- but there is also a sense of whimsy and joy in the poems which mange to combine learning and fun so successfully!

The book is the perfect size for taking on expeditions through the woods where they can be enjoyed and used to spark investigations in the heart of the habitat they are celebrating. For teachers, this book is perfect for enriching the curriculum either by using the poems as starting points for exploration or for enjoying at story times or as part of an assembly. Each work is accompanied by delightful illustrations, each a mini-masterpiece!

From its gorgeous cover to the last page, ‘Wisdom of the Woods’ is an absolute joy!

Brown Bear Wood: Wisdom of the Woods

Rachel Piercey, illustrated by Freya Hartas

Magic Cat ISBN: 978-1915569615