Adventuremice: Mice, Camera, Action!

When a letter arrives from Hollybush, the Adventuremice learn that a film is being made about their adventures. The team travel to the film set to watch the filming where things get a little too confusing for Pedro, who attempts to rescue the actress playing Juniper from the pretend otter threatening her. Luckily, Ivy is on hand to repair the otter, saving the day and the movie…but it turns out that the otter is very real, meaning a real-life Adventuremice rescue is needed!

I absolutely love the ‘Adventuremice’ books and this latest adventure- ‘Mice, Camera, Action!’- is every bit as enjoyable as the others. Fun, pacy stories and appealing characters mixed with incredible illustrations and quirky humour make these stories a joy from start to finish.

At the heart of these lovely stories are positive messages about teamwork, collaboration, friendship and self-belief. Characters learn from their mistakes and are prepared to take risks, showing perseverance and determination. These elements enhance the stories rather than intrude on them and there is plenty of humour to enjoy as the Adventuremice swing into action and save the day!

The perfect size for little hands, with illustrations- and drawing tips!- which are sure to inspire budding artists, this series is really is something special.

Adventuremice: Mice, Camera, Action!

Philip Reeve and Sarah McIntyre

David Fickling ISBN: 978-1788453363

You can read my review of ‘Otter Chaos’ here, ‘Mice on the Moon’ here and ‘Mice on the Ice’ here.

I Don’t Do Mountains!

Kenzie likes to read about adventures, but has no desire to take part in one. She doesn’t like strangers and barely does friends so when she finds out that she is expected to go on a hillwalking expedition with pupils from another school and Sorley Mackay, the most annoying boy in her class. Despite all her best efforts to get out of it, Kenzie finds herself heading into the hills. Their group leader Bairdy’s love of the countryside is infectious, sharing stories of their ancient myths and legends around the camp fire. But when he is missing the following morning, Kenzie and the rest of the group find themselves alone on the mountain.

Wonderfully atmospheric, ‘I Don’t Do Mountains!’ is a cracking adventure, celebrating the beauty of the Scottish mountains and the importance of cherishing it.

Told through Kenzie’s voice, readers can really engage with this quirky, book-loving girl and enjoy following her, as she develops in confidence, resilience and the ability to warm to, and makes friends with, others. Friendship, the uncertainties of transition to secondary school and making connections are all explored through the story as Kenzie, with Sorley, Mariam and Rupert have to work together, very much out of their comfort zones, to survive the wilderness- and save the wildlife.

Themes of conservation, land management and the protection of wildlife are all woven into the story, raising awareness of these issues, encouraging readers to take an interest in the joys of the natural world and perhaps inspiring them to explore the outdoors. Vividly written, the book is full of wonderful descriptions of the mountains and the intriguing folklore surrounding them. An excellent read, enhanced by beautiful drawings scattered throughout.

I Don’t Do Mountains!

Barbara Henderson, illustrated by Victoria Di Meo

Scottish Mountaineering Press ISBN: 978-1907233548

Deep Dark

Cassia Thorne lives in the Fleet with her father, who is in prison for debt. She does what she can to support them by selling ballads in the streets and giving music lessons. When the younger brother of her friend goes missing, Cassia is determined to find him and with the help of Teo, a pickpocket and Felix Bradshaw, a well-to-do young man, she discovers a sinister plot, involving missing children and rumours of a fearsome beast lurking beneath the streets of London.

‘Deep Dark’ combines historical detail, fantasy and a sinister mystery to create a compelling adventure.

Set in Victorian London, the story includes plenty of real history. The threat of the workhouse, the evils of debtors’ prison, the lives of mudlarks and costermongers all help to build a vivid picture of Cassia’s world as she strives to make more of her life. Trapped in the Fleet due to her father’s misfortunes, she is determined to free herself from the poverty and limitations of her life whilst painfully aware that she is only one step away from life in the workhouse. The excitement and wonders St Bartholomew’s Fair offers a stark contrast to these realities, capturing the bustle and energy of those enjoying its sights and sounds.

A note at the end of the book adds some historical detail and context, offering suggestions for further investigation and research should readers wish to discover more whilst a map at the beginning allows them to follow Cassia’s adventures and realise that many of these places are still there in today’s London.

Cassia is a really strong, well-rounded character. Although ambitious and determined, she also experiences moments of doubt about the enormity of what she is trying to do and the realities of her situation. A loyal friend with a big heart, it is impossible not to like her and feel invested in her success as she takes on a seemingly impossible challenge, locating and freeing the missing children, caring when others so not. The contrast between Teo and Felix underlines the lack of social equality which existed (and continues to do so). Each boy is full of personality, each endearing in their own way.

The story comes to a satisfying conclusion, yet there is obviously more to come for Cassia, leaving readers keen for the next book to appear! ‘Deep Dark’ would make an excellent story time read for a Y6 class with plenty of tension and excitement to keep them on the edge of their seats as they root for Cassia every step of the way!

Deep Dark (A Cassia Thorne Mystery)

Zohra Nabi

Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1398532922

Wild Magic: Legend of the Black Lion

Twins, Misha and Ziggy, share a secret. Misha can talk to animals whilst Ziggy can shapeshift into them. When they accompany their dad, a wildlife TV presenter, on a trip to Ethiopia, they are determined to help him find the legendary black lion. However, when they discover poachers are threatening the wildlife, they are sure they can use their powers to help.

‘Legend of the Black Lion’ is a very engaging and enjoyable adventure story. The idea of being able to speak to animals is really appealing, making this sure to be a very popular book- the first of a new series.

The twins are lively and full of personality, who share a lovely relationship with their hard-working dad. Excited to see all the wildlife, they are also keen to use their powers to help their father get footage of the famous- and elusive- black lion. Their adventure contains just the right amount of jeopardy and tension to make the story exciting without causing upset and reaches a very satisfying conclusion where the goodies triumph and all is well!

Another lovely thing about this story is the amount of general information it contains about Ethiopia and its wildlife. Readers are sure to be fascinated by the fact that Ethiopia has a different calendar to the Western one, for example. Additional information at the end of the book about both black lions and Ethiopia is included and there are plenty of lovely illustrations, bursting with personality, which add much to the story.

‘Legend of the Black Lion’ would make an excellent class story!

Wild Magic: Legend of the Black Lion

Abiola Bello, illustrated by Emma McCann

Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1398520486

Rebel Heart

In 1645, England is a country torn by war, with families and friends divided as they fight either on the side of the King or Parliament. While Merriweather Price’s father is away fighting for King Charles I, her home, Compton Blaize, is besieged by Cromwell’s men. Fearful that her step-mother is going to surrender to the enemy, Merri disguises herself as a boy and sets off in search of help.

‘Rebel Heart’ is historical fiction at its finest. Full of action and adventure, the story is also rich in the level of detail which creates a sense of atmosphere and period so essential for a story of this kind.

Merriweather is such an engaging character. Courageous and loyal, she is determined to live up to her family motto, ‘Fearless and True’, and save her family home. On her way to find help, she encounters both ruthless people exploiting the chaos of civil war as well as those who truly believe that they are fighting on the ‘right’ side, making her revaluate her own beliefs and question things which she has simply accepted.

The story highlights the harsh realities of war with Merri witnessing the horrors of the Battle of Naseby as well as the suffering of those not fighting, but caught in the brutality of civil war. It also reflects the role played by many women who were left to defend their homes, defying the conventions that society placed on them. Detailed notes at the end of the book offer much valuable background information as well as encouraging readers to explore this period further.

Books like ‘Rebel Heart’ are essential for broadening children’s knowledge and understanding of periods of history beyond those taught in the primary curriculum, sparking interest in and awareness of the many layers of history which are everywhere. As with her other books, Ally Sherrick has a talent for bringing the past to life and writing really memorable stories full of adventure.

Rebel Heart

Ally Sherrick

Chicken House ISBN: 978-1915026996

Published 13th March 2025

You can read my review of ‘Vita and the Gladiator’ here.

The Forbidden Atlas

Isaac and Hattie are in Paris at the National Archives, waiting to be presented with a special medal for rescuing the world’s clocks from disaster when a gunshot sets them off on another adventure, this time on the greatest treasure hunt in history- the legendary hidden treasure of King Louis XV1. As their search leads them into the maze of tunnels beneath Paris, the children find themselves pursued by a ruthless killer in a high-stakes race to discover the treasure- and save Paris.

Sam Sedgman has done it again with another gripping, beautifully written adventure which has all the thrills and spills, twists and turns readers have come to expect from his stories. ‘The Forbidden Atlas’ is rich in history and detail as well as being a first rate, tension filled mystery.

A perfect balance of engaging characters allows Sam Sedgman to share so much information about Paris, the legend of Louis XVI’s treasure, the catacombs and maps, weaving this effortlessly into the story as each character shares their knowledge and understanding. Isaac, less impetuous and daring perhaps than Hattie, is full of scientific understanding, the love of learning and a determination to do the right thing Hattie is bursting with confidence and intelligence, quick to action and impulsive. Leon, who they meet on this adventure, has an insider’s knowledge of Paris and its secrets. As each shares what they know, the reader learns so much, gaining a deeper understanding of both the story and its setting. Additional information from the author at the end of the book clarifies where Sam Sedgman has ‘strayed from the path of truth for the sake of a good story’!

Like the first book in this series, ‘The Clockwork Conspiracy’, ‘The Forbidden Atlas’ is an ingenious mystery, which will keep readers guessing and questioning every step of the way. It would make a cracking class story- one chapter (there are twenty- like the twenty arrondissements of Paris!) would never be enough! Fortunately, the ending gives a tantalising clue about the next story, ‘The Galileo Heist’…I can’t wait!

Isaac Turner Investigates: The Forbidden Atlas

Sam Sedgman, illustrated by David Dean

Bloomsbury ISBN: 978-1526665430

You can read my review of the first Isaac Turner Investigates book, ‘The Clockwork Conspiracy’, here.

The Great Theatre Rescue

Charley’s childhood has been unconventional and full of excitement. Her life revolves around The Wren theatre, where, at last, she has a chance to be on the stage, not just behind the curtains. However, when disaster strikes, Charley finds herself bundled off to St Mary-at-Cliffe School for girls which is less like a school and more like a prison. Here the pupils are kept hard at work to line the pockets of those in charge. Knowing the theatre is in peril, Charley is determined to escape, return to London and save the theatre that she loves.

‘The Great Theatre Rescue’ has it all! Vivid, atmospheric descriptions bring the places and characters in this story brilliantly to life as the plot romps along at a pleasing pace. There are dastardly baddies, courageous and determined heroines, historical figures - and a devoted canine companion- making this an adventure to appeal to everyone!

Charley is a very endearing, likeable character who is flawed and easy to identify with as she navigates the challenges thrown at her. Her developing friendship with Jewel, who she meets at school, is really handled and offers some interesting twists to the tale.

The harshness of the boarding school contrasts with the lively warmth and companionship of theatre life, giving the story real colour- and offering echoes of a Dickensian world. Orphans, street gangs, foundling babies, unexpected relationships, betrayal, heartache, love and loyalty transport the reader to another world as Charley strives to save the theatre and overcome her crippling stage fright. There is so much to love in this book.

The energy, tension and excitement of the story would make this an excellent choice for class story time, offering much to enjoy and plenty to discuss. A brilliant read!

The Great Theatre Rescue

Judith Eagle

Faber ISBN: 978-0571363308

You can read my review of ‘The Accidental Stowaway’ here.

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 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

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

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.

Murder at Wintertide

George and his father are heading for Lyme Regis for a family gathering to celebrate both his grandfather’s birthday and Christmas where the two halves of his step-family are coming together. This includes Isla, his slightly terrifying, very intelligent step-cousin. When a body washes up on the beach, George is convinced it has something to do with some strange lights he saw on the cliff top and together with Isla, he finds himself investigating the mystery. However, someone is determined to stop them…

Once again, Fleur Hitchcock delivers an excellent murder mystery! ‘Murder at Wintertide’ is a completely absorbing and entertaining read, every bit as enjoyable as the previous ‘Murder…’ books.

Perfectly pitched for Y6/7 readers, ‘Murder at Wintertide’ offers a captivating thriller complete with red herrings, plenty of peril and ‘pesky kids’ determined to solve the crime. Readers familiar with Lyme Regis, where the action is set, will recognise many of the details Fleur adds to the story, including the sculpture of ‘some famous fossil hunter’, and the descriptions of a seaside town in winter add much to the atmosphere of the story.

George makes an appealing main character and the complexities of his blended family life add plenty of substance and realism to the story. As his friendship with Isla develops, George realises that he has misunderstood someone who actually makes a brave an loyal friend, showing how easy it is to misjudge people. They make quite a team and it would be great to see them make a reappearance in a future book!

It is always hard to review this sort of story without giving too much away and spoiling it for others, but anyone who reads this (and everyone should!) will instantly recognise the skill with which Fleur writes these stories, making them every bit as enjoyable for older readers as for those they are officially aimed at! Thoroughly enjoyable, endlessly readable… another triumph!

Murder at Wintertide

Fleur Hitchcock

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805132233

Published 10th October 2024

You can read my review of ‘Murder at Snowfall’ here, ‘Waiting for Murder’ here and ‘Murder in Midwinter’ here.

Thunder City

Tamzin Pook does battle with Revenants in Margate’s Amusement Arcade where she is the star fighter, having survived forty-nine fights. Others are not so lucky.

When a brutal coup takes place in the wheeled city of Thorbury, Miss Torpenhow, a teacher from that city, seeks Tamzin’s help, breaking her out of the Arcade. Events progress at a rapid pace and Tamzin finds herself part of an ill-matched group, banded together in their desire to free Thorbury- and find a new life.

No poor attempt at a summary could ever do justice to the perfectly paced, tightly plotted and absolutely absorbing experience which reading a Moral Engines book offers. It was an absolute joy to return to this world!

Set about a hundred years before the setting of the first book, ‘Thunder City’ is as imaginative and richly drawn as the other stories. It is easy to read it as a stand alone story, but for anyone who has read the other books, it is fascinating to see this world following the rules of Municipal Darwinism yet before the more ruthless town-eat-town era to come.

Tamzin is a wonderful character. Thrown into the brutal world of the Amusement Arcade, she has developed her own survival strategies, trying hard not to form attachments. However, with her freedom from this life, she learns she can trust and be trusted, forming new bonds, showing her to be a courageous and loyal friend. The other characters who become part of her group are equally well developed and believable (Miss Torpenhow is just brilliant!) and I am convinced that Philip Reeve will not be heartless enough to deprive the world of more stories leading from this wonderful beginning!

 Thunder City

Philip Reeve

Scholastic    ISBN: 978-0702335471

Seawitch

As part of taking her ‘Sapling’ test and moving a step closer to becoming a fully trained witch, Cassie Morgan must take on the challenge of training a new witch; however, when one arrives, Robin Kendrick is not what she- or the rest of 1st Hedgely coven- were expecting. When a letter arrives from her cousin, Sebastian, asking for her help in solving a mystery, Oak Patrol- with their new member, head off to the Faerie border town of Porthmorven whose protector the Seawitch is nowhere to be found, leaving the town vulnerable. Can Cassie and her friend work out what is going on and foil the Erl King’s plans before it’s too late?

‘Seawitch’ is the third book in this magical series about Cassie- and each seems better than the last! Wonderfully atmospheric, both characters and scenery are vividly portrayed, offering a very satisfying and immersive read.

With the support of her friends, Cassie is gaining in confidence, determined to become a witch and find her parents. Level headed and fair, she still has some qualms about the acceptance of Robin- a boy- into the coven so that he can train to be a witch- something seen as a female role. Skye McKenna explores the young witches prejudices really well - ‘You’ve got to be resourceful and observant and well… they [boys] just aren’t.’- challenging stereotypical gender roles.

‘Seawitch’ moves at a very pleasing pace, with plenty of action and Cassie learning more about her parents whilst leaving tantalising clues and paving the way for more stories to come. Although magical stories, this series has so much to recommend it to any reader that those who claim not to be fans of this genre will find themselves enjoying the books just as much as those who are!

Seawitch

Skye McKenna, illustrated by Tomislav Tomic

Welbeck ISBN: 978-1801301282

You can read my review of ‘Hedgewitch’ here and ‘Woodwitch’ here.

Chronicles of Whetherwhy: The Age of Enchantment

In Whetherwhy, everyone has a little bit of magic inside them, linked to one of the seasons, but each year, a handful of enchanters are born, those who can wield magic connected with spring, summer, autumn and winter. Juniper and Rafferty Quinn are twins, living with their family at their bookbindery in Honeyvale. On the Spring Ember Day of their thirteenth year, they, like all other thirteen-year-olds, are tested and on finding she is an enchanter, Juniper is invited to study at Thistledown Academy. Reluctant both to leave her alone, and to be left behind, Rafferty soon follows, taking an apprenticeship at a bookbindery in the capital city of Stormgrove.

Whilst Juniper learns to control and use her magic, Rafferty finds himself drawn into a mysterious sect known as the Papercut Society whose beliefs lead him away from his sister. However, as danger and dark magic threaten them, the twins must come together once more.

No synopsis of this book could seek to do justice to the wonderfully magical and imaginative world which Anna James has created! As a great lover of the ‘Pages and Co.’ series, I had high hopes of this book- and those yet to come- and I found myself completely absorbed into the world of Whetherwhy.

Once again, Anna James puts books and the power of word at the very heart of the story, but in ‘The Age of Enchantment’, the joys and power of nature are also celebrated. With each resident having an affinity to one of the seasons, the ‘specialness’ of each time of year is highlighted, enhancing their natural abilities. As with any magical story, comparisons are sure to be made with the ‘Harry Potter’ stories and, just as fans of those identify with one of the houses, so here readers are sure to wonder which season they ‘belong’ to!

It’s the little details which make any imagined world convincing and the descriptions of Whetherwhy are full of them as well as (if I am not much mistaken!) hints of things to come in future stories. Fabulous illustrations by David Wyatt add much to the atmosphere of each chapter, capturing various scenes perfectly, with a map at the beginning to help readers orientate themselves in this new world.

Juniper and Rafferty come from a loving and supportive family which clearly contrasts with that of Olivor, another student at Thistledown Academy, who becomes Juniper’s friend and Jessy, the other apprentice at the Aufero Bindery in Stormgrove. Incredibly close, the twins grow apart as the story develops, each finding their own place, yet ultimately their bond is as strong as ever. They must work out who to trust and what to believe as they overcome dangers and unravel mysteries. Each of the characters in the story is really well developed, including the adults, adding to the richness of the read- and the potential to discover more in subsequent books. Even minor characters like Nutmeg, the owner of ‘Butter and Bean’, feel like people you might know.

Exciting from the outset, ‘The Age of Enchantment’ is a gripping read, thoroughly enjoyable and impossible to put down. Can’t wait for the next one!

Chronicles of Whetherwhy: The Age of Enchantment

Anna James, illustrated by David Wyatt

Harper Collins ISBN: 978-0008611576

Flame Chasers

Every year, Ember yearns to fly with the golden flamebirds who pause in their flight at Bright Beacon every year before heading on to their home. Those known as ‘flame chasers’ wait in the harbour, ready to follow the birds in the hope of finding one of their wish-giving tail feathers. But when her Pa goes missing, having left on the hunt without her, Ember is determined to be part of the following year’s chase and gain a feather to wish him back to her. However, finding a lost flamebird which becomes a tiny cinderling in desperate need of returning to the flamebirds’ home quickly to survive, Ember’s quest takes on a new urgency…

What a wonderful book! ‘Flame Chasers’ is a completely captivating story with wonderful characters and such a satisfying conclusion to this tale which yet offers the possibility of more adventures to come in this world!

Having thoroughly enjoyed the story, my ‘teacher brain’ went into overdrive. It would make a brilliant class story for a Year 5 or 6 class, offering plenty of dramatic bits to pause reading at, sure to cause cries of protest and requests for ‘just another chapter!’ But this is also a book which would make an excellent class text, supporting and developing English work.

Careful language choices and rich descriptions build a vivid sense of this world and its settings, offering great models for encouraging children to develop their own ideas and create their own locations, perhaps building maps to help them navigate. Ember is such a wonderful character, loving and loyal, full of empathy for others and with a strong moral code which supports the choices she makes. Stanley, who she meets whilst setting out on her quest, is led by his desire for his heart’s desire which clouds his judgement early on in the story, but he, too, has a good heart and tries to put things right. I also love the fact that the adults were not just neatly disposed of in this story. Stanley’s mum, Aggie, plays a key role in their adventure without overshadowing them or leading the action and is shown to be just as fallible as they are.

The story also lends itself to discussions about hunting wildlife and the ethics (or lack of them) of those involved. Some only chase the birds in the hope of finding a fallen feather whilst others have more sinister intentions, ready to exploit and harm these gorgeous creatures in their pursuit of wishes. This could easily be linked to work on explorers and naturalists who collected specimens and the methods which they employed versus the conservation work carried out today. The subject of ‘what would you wish for’ would also be an interesting topic to discuss!

‘Flame Chasers’ is an utterly absorbing read. Loved it!

Flame Chasers

Julie Pike

Firefly ISBN: 978-1915444554

A Riddle for a King

Philo (rhymes with high-low) has always longed for adventure, but when he follows a strange creature called Mr Spronkel through the oak door of the grandfather clock, he finds himself in a very strange place indeed. To find his way home, he must somehow pass through the Penguin Gate to the Flying Castle to ask the King for help, somehow avoiding drop-bears, answering the Bridge-Riddler’s puzzle and not being turned into a teapot by the Midnight Witch along the way!

Completely surreal and utterly entertaining, ‘A Riddle for a King’ is a quirky adventure, full of friendship and fun. As I read it, the crazy characters, weird and wonderful places and constant riddling reminded me of Alice’s Adventures, yet this is a tale all of its own!

It’s also very hard to review! It is a quite delightfully bonkers adventure which is full of humour and riddles, keeping the reader entertained to the very end! Reading the author’s ‘Afterthought’ offers plenty to think about and plenty to investigate should interest have been piqued, but the plot tumbles along at a pleasing pace so many may just enjoy it in the moment. After all, what’s not to love about chapter titles like ‘wronger than a conga’?!

Often bemused by his new surroundings, Philo’s friendship with Verity, a girl he meets on his quest to get back home, helps him to find confidence and start to see things differently. Her strong sense of right and wrong, her loyalty and quick wits are essential to his success, but this is a very real friendship with some misunderstandings and bickerings along the way which mean nothing when the chips are down and they need each other!

Perfect for those children who are looking for something a little different, ‘A Riddle for a King’ is great fun!

A Riddle for a King

Mark Forsyth, illustrated by Matthew Land

David Fickling Books ISBN: 978-1788453165

Blog Tour: Aliya Aboard the Time Train

Welcome to the third stop on the time travelling Silver Express on an exhilarating journey through Egyptian history and culture with Laila Rifaat, author of the Aliya series.

Letter 3: Read like a Ptolemaian (The Ptolemaic era, Ancient Alexandria)

Dear Geddo,

By now you might have received a chronogram with the news about Professor Fayruz. Poor old sphinx…It was so horrible seeing him lying there stiff and cold. We found him just as we were heading back to the train after our excursion to the Old Kingdom. Some travellers are saying that he was murdered! The whole matter is so disturbing, but please don’t worry about me. I’ll be fine and anyway, there’s no way of turning the train around now that we’re in the time tunnel.

In line with our present stop in the Ptolemaic era, the dining coach has been redecorated to fit the style, with the genie waiters, musicians, and coach attendants all wearing draped tunics with colourful sashes, leather sandals and headbands made of gold and leather. In an attempt to brighten the mood, the guests were given Ptolemaic headdresses to wear. Victoria got a ‘Crown of Isis,’ which had a sun-disk between a pair of cow-horns. I could tell she wasn’t sure whether to be proud or embarrassed to wear it. Aion and I got lotus-crowns which were really pretty. Soliman told us that the lotus flower which was sacred in ancient Egypt. Charlotte, our chaperone, got a headdress with cobras which I thought suited her well. She’s always hissing at us.

I hadn’t expected Ptolemaic fashion and food to be so like the one we had from Ancient Egypt. Soliman explained that this was because the Ptolemies, who came from Greece, took on a lot of the Egyptians’ way of life when they drove out the Persians and settled in Egypt. They seemed a bit divided about Egypt though, because while they liked to present themselves like Egyptian pharaohs, they refused to speak anything but Greek and only put their own people in positions of power. Soliman said they never really assimilated to Egyptian culture. Still, they liked to style themselves as Pharaohs.  Maybe they liked the outfits, or was it to win the Egyptians’ favour by adopting their culture? I’m not sure.

After dessert we headed for the outfitting coach to get dressed for our visit to the Ptolemaic era. I got to wear a purple-striped tunic, and a cloak with a hood. It was really comfortable, and quite stylish too. Arsione, who is from that time, helped dress mine and the other girls’ hair with gold bands and headdresses.

The first portal took us to a spot on a hill, overlooking the ancient town of Alexandria. It felt so strange standing there, looking out over the city I know so well from my own time. But this was sometime around 330 BCE! So, no traffic jams or hotels lining the coastline. It did look impressive though, with a great harbour, countless temples, and a massive lighthouse.

Soliman told us that the city was founded and named by Alexander the Great who drove the Persians out of Egypt in 332 BCE. Ptolomy, founder of the Ptolemaic dynasty, was one of his generals who took over when Alexander died. He’s went on to make Alexandria an important port and an intellectual hot spot. The Ptolomies founded the Library of Alexandria and built a famous lighthouse, which is one of the seven wonders of the ancient world and one of the highest buildings of the ancient world. Only the pyramids of Giza are higher.

Next, we headed to the library, to a complex known as the Mouseion which housed a research institute, an astronomical observatory, gardens, and even a zoo. While passing through we ran into scholars, scientists, and philosophers from all over the world that had come to Alexandria to study, experiment, and debate the hot topics of the day.

The Ptolomies who were the patrons of the library were really crazy about books, even more than you. They would go to great lengths to get hold of them, or the scrolls on which they were written, and would collect everything from cookbooks to maps to philosophical treaties. They would even send special agents to steal or barter for manuscripts. Once a Ptolemy ruler tricked some famous philosophers, saying he would ‘borrow’ their original texts to copy them for his library. He ended up sending them the copies and keeping the originals. I can’t imagine going that crazy over some old scrolls of philosophy to the point that you want to steal them!

The library was really cool though, I’ve got to admit. I visited last year during the assessments, remember? It would have been a fond memory, but now it’s tainted by the fact that the most evil magician in the travel world was there with me.

Anyway, before heading back to the train we got to see some of Alexandria’s wide, straight roads and massive grand temples, palaces, and monuments that mixed Greek and Egyptian styles. Soliman told us that the city often came alive with festivals, parades, and celebrations honouring the gods and goddesses of both cultures. So, the Ptolomies were party animals as well as intellectuals.

I got to go now. Charlotte’s making us take baths to wash off ‘dangerous ancient germs.’ I’ll write again as soon as I get a chance. Please don’t worry.

Your granddaughter,

Aliya

Useful links

• Ptolemaian fashion: https://rawi-publishing.com/articles/ptolemaic_fashion

• History of the Ptolemaic era: https://www.worldhistory.org/Ptolemaic_Dynasty/

• Library of Alexandria: https://www.worldhistory.org/Library_of_Alexandria/ https://www.britannica.com/topic/Library-of-Alexandria

About Laila Rifaat

Laila moved to Cairo, Egypt, in her twenties to explore her father’s native country. She fell in love with the country and has lived in Cairo for over 30 years now. It remains a main source of inspiration for her stories. She has an MA in English and Comparative Literature and has worked as an ESL and IGCSE teacher. Nowadays she’s a full-time writer and stay-at-home mum to her four kids. Find out more at www.lailarifaat.com

Aliya Aboard the Time Train

The spectacular sequel to Middle Eastern-inspired fantasy Aliya to the Infinite City. 

When sinister magic threatens Aliya’s world once more, she is sent away on a school trip for her own safety aboard the time-travelling Silver Express. But what is supposed to be an educational journey through Egyptian history becomes a deadly race to save it from evil time-twister and master of disguise, Dorian Darke. Find out more at

https://www.chickenhousebooks.com/schools/laila-rifaat/

My review will follow soon…

Anne of Green Gables

When Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert plan to adopt a boy to help them out on their farm, they are shocked to discover they have been sent a little re-headed girl instead. Not entirely sure what to do with her, they soon warm to Anne (with an ‘e’) Shirley, whose constant chatter, vivid imagination and quick temper make life constantly entertaining.

Anne Shirley is a heroine like no other and her escapades and misadventures have been entertaining readers for over a hundred years. Like many others, I have loved the ‘Anne of Green Gables’ books since first reading them as a child and it is a delight to see this gorgeous new edition which will enchant a new generation by introducing them to her stories.

Katherine Woodfine has done a brilliant job of capturing the essence of Anne’s character. The extravagance of her speech, her joy in life and her tendency to get into scrapes are all here, but the language has been simplified and modernised, clarifying the story for modern readers. Anne’s insistence that she and Diana are ‘bosom’ friends (something which confused me no end as a child!), for example, is not mentioned, nor are there the constant references to religion which permeate the original.

The illustrations are delightful, capturing scene after scene from the story, full of energy, colour and detail. The size of the book makes it perfect both for sharing and for exploring each picture at leisure. Peeling back the dust jacket offers yet more delight as the hardback cover is beautiful, bordered with ‘cross stitch’ designs matching those of the jacket and presenting illustrations from within the book in gold on the pink background.

Absolutely charming, both in illustrations and re-telling, this edition of ‘Anne of Green Gables’ captures the heart and joy of the original, making it a satisfying read in itself as well as a stepping stone to the original books.

Anne of Green Gables

L M Montgomery, retold by Katherine Woodfine, illustrated by Isabelle Follath

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1839943317

Coming on the 1st September 2024