Capitana

Ximena Reale is determined to become a Cazadoro at La Academia de los Cazadores, but despite being a star student, her prospects are tarnished by her heritage. Five years ago, her parents were executed for being pirates and now her older sister’s behaviour is casting a shadow on Ximena’s rising star. When it seems that Gasparilla, a notorious, but supposedly dead, pirate captain, is in action once more, Ximena sees this as her opportunity to prove herself and achieve her dream…

‘Capitana’ is not normally the sort of book I would pick up- however, I am very glad that I did as I thoroughly enjoyed it. If you haven’t read it, please continue at your peril as I might give some bits away!

The plot moves at a lively pace, full of action and with plenty of twists, as Ximena gradually begins to question everything she has known and believed in all her life. Strong, determined and single-minded, she has done her duty ‘to the Law, to the Queen and to the Empire’ without thinking, rejecting friendship and expecting the ill treatment caused by her parents’ disgrace. As the book develops, there is a real change in her persona and she begins to question the system she has always believed in as she sees the harm done by imperialism and ruthless authority on her journey to defeat Gasparilla, ultimately leading to her defying the Empire and taking a very different path.

The writing is really atmospheric, scattered with Spanish vocabulary, immersing the reader in Ximena’s world with vivid descriptions. Although there are many deaths and plenty of violence, the author manages to avoid being overly gory. Similarly, the simmering romance between Ximena and her arch rival, Dante de Leon, who has progressed through nepotism rather than effort, is really well handled, not over-done as it is in some ‘teen romance’ stories!

Great good stuff!

Capitana

Cassandra James

Hot Key Books ISBN: 1471416743

Out on the 4th February

The First Year

Nate is about to start secondary school. After a challenging final year at Primary, things seem to have settled for him and he is ready for a fun-filled summer before a fresh start in September. However, a new school brings new challenges- and some old. Avoiding Turner, conforming to endless rules and adapting to new teachers combined with a growing sense of distance between Nate and his brothers combine to unsettle him. And then, there’s a surprise reappearance in his life…

Writing the sequel to an incredibly popular book must be a daunting task. Reading such a sequel is hard enough- will the character maintain their personality? will they grow? will the plot be engaging or contrived? And most importantly, will it leave you with the same sense of awe and wonder as the first?

‘The Final Year’ made a huge impact on me - and on many children and adults who I have had the joy of discussing it with. In Nate, Matt managed to capture the very essence of many children I have taught over the years and really give them a voice. His extraordinary ability to do this continues in ‘The First Year’.

Starting secondary school is a massive change for children. Primary schools offer a far more secure, comforting environment, even for those who struggle with it, than the impersonal, large scale nature of secondary schools. For those already vulnerable and adrift, this can be completely overwhelming. Nate’s bond with Mr Joshua, the pull of the familiarity of his old school, the fact that his brothers are still there all combine to emphasise Nate’s sense of growing disaffection with his new school where he feels he is being labelled and judged. There is no empathy, no consideration for the turbulent emotions and confusion which might be colouring an individual’s life- and behaviour.

The seeming simplicity of the text belies the complexity of emotion and experience which the story explores. The power and poignancy in places is breath taking, making Nate’s continued story ever bit as engaging as it was in ‘The Final Year’. There is no doubting the skill of Matt’s writing- ‘The First Year’ is sure to gain just as many well deserved accolades as ‘the Final Year’.

The First Year

Matt Goodfellow, illustrated by Joe Todd-Stanton

Otter Barry Books ISBN: 978-1915659606

You can read my review of ‘The Final Year’ here.

Leo and Ralph

Ralph is Leo’s best friend. The two are inseparable, sharing a deep fascination for space and that comfortable understanding which only comes with a close friendship. But Ralph is imaginary and Leo’s parents feel it is time for him to say goodbye to Ralph as the family is moving to a different town. It’s a time for new beginnings…but it’s not always that easy to move on.

‘Leo and Ralph’ is a lovely, gentle story which focuses on family and friendship. It is a book which highlights how confusing school and navigating the world can be for those who see things a little differently, enjoy their own pace and whose minds are full of their own trains of thought. Leo is a delightful little boy, who finds a best friend created by his own imagination with whom he shares the things he loves.

Leo’s family- his mother, father and little sister, Peg, all try to support Leo in their own ways. They offer well intentioned advice and Leo does try to act on this. However, he finds his own solution to the ‘problem’ of friends by creating Ralph. The author skilfully explores Leo’s feelings of confusion and anxiety as he tries to please his family, feels guilty when he can’t and then his relief when he ‘finds’ Ralph. The warmth and affection of their relationship is a joy.

However, the story is not just about an imaginary friend. In his own time and in his own way, Leo forms a friendship which is just as strong and affectionate as that he shared with Ralph. Although initially he struggles to decide between his two friends, he is able to move on and appreciate a friend who helps him to learn new things whilst listening to and appreciating the things which Leo has to share. Their differences help to make their friendship strong!

I loved this story, and like many teachers, recognise Leo in many children I have taught. ‘Leo and Ralph’ would make a lovely class story, offering reassurance and comfort to some whilst developing empathy and understanding in others.

Leo and Ralph

Peter Carnavas

Pushkin Press ISBN: 978-1782695233

Published on the 13th February 2025

After Life

Cycling home after school one day, Amber Crane notices a few things are different; however, nothing prepares her for the shock of her mother screaming in horror when she sees her. Amber should be dead. Victim of a hit-and-run seven years ago, her death sent shockwaves of grief through her family and friends, impacting even those who barely knew her. So how is it possible that she has returned- and why?

‘After Life’ is a very powerful and thought-provoking novel, exploring ideas around grief, love and how one person can affect others in varying ways.

Told from differing view points through shifting time frames, the story builds the picture of what happened to Amber, her relationships when alive and the aftermath of her death, exploring range of ways people respond to and cope with (or not) surviving someone they knew, particularly one so young. There is much to absorb here. Her parents’ relationship- a love-at-first-sight dream match- cannot withstand the loss of their child; nor can the close bond of her mother and aunt. The building of the back story here through the time shifts and differing viewpoints emphasises the weight of what is lost. Similarly, it allows the reader to learn that not all in Amber’s life was as she thought it was, meaning her loss is weighted with guilt and regret for others who knew her.

There is so much to this moving story, but one of the most powerful elements for me is how Amber’s sister, Melissa, has kept her relationship with her sister alive after death by continuing to have conversations with her, nurturing her love for her and finding comfort in this way.

A beautiful book- have tissues at the ready!

After Life

Gayle Forman

Hot Key ISBN: 978-1471418310

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

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

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.

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

Jed Greenleaf

It is the reign of Queen Jane III and the Guild of Iron, led by Cromwell, helps her rule the kingdom of Albion. Although the six magickal guilds compete for this role every year, it has been a long time since Fire or Iron have been in charge.

When orphan Jed finds himself taken in by the crumbling Guild of Leaf, his extraordinary abilities allow for the possibility of change. However, things are not as they should be and Jed soon finds himself caught up in a world of intrigue where he needs to save his new guild family and fight for change.

‘Jed Greenleaf’ is a completely engaging story, enhanced throughout by wonderfully atmospheric illustrations by David Wyatt. I loved everything about it, from its alternative historical setting to its appealing characters. Kieran Larwood’s stories just get better and better.

Set at a time when Lady Jane Grey succeeded in inheriting the throne from Edward VI and her descendants now rule Albion, the book is full of historical details and references to historical figures which add much to the setting of the story, giving a realism which acts as a contrast to the magickal abilities of those in the Guilds and creates a perfect backdrop to this intricate and brilliantly imagined world.

Jed is such a fabulous character. Sickly and bullied by those around him, he is full of self-doubt, worried about his abilities and his newfound role as part of a Guild which is far from flourishing. Yet, as the story progresses, his courage and determination lead him to achieve things he would never have thought possible, overturning corruption and righting wrongs along the way. Despite all the cruelty he has experienced, Jed shows unfailing kindness and loyalty to those he cares for, an instinctive sense of right and wrong guiding him in the choices he makes.

There is a rich feeling of folklore, combined with a love of the natural world running through the story and although it looks as if this is a self-contained story, it would be such as shame not to revisit Jed and his friends in another adventure. This is a must-read, perfect for sharing as a class or bedtime story!

Jed Greenleaf

Kieran Larwood, illustrated by David Wyatt

Faber ISBN: 978-0571392049

You can read my review of ‘The Treekeepers’ here.

Santa’s Journey/ Twelve Days of Kindness

This simple rhyming story follows Father Christmas as he makes his way across the skies to deliver his gifts on Christmas Eve. Each verse is accompanied by a lovely layered pop-up scene to enjoy and discuss.

The thick card pages are durable and offer protection to the more fragile scenes which pop-up from the page as the book is opened, giving depth to each picture and each of the five scenes is richly coloured.

Perfect for sharing and enjoying as a family, older children may well be tempted to have a go at creating their own pop-up scene or a card inspired by these pictures. Sure to become a festive favourite!

Santa’s Journey

Patricia Hegarty, illustrated by Wazza Pink

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1838916534

Brightly coloured illustrations show a family spreading festive cheer as they perform twelve simple acts of kindness in the days before Christmas. Each spread has a simple sentence stating what they did on that day, with the picture setting the scene. It clearly shows how little things we can do for others can mean so much - and without the need for spending lots of money. This is all about spending time with others, helping out, being together and showing appreciation for the things which others do for us. Even the cat gets a treat!

A lovely treat to curl up and share!

Twelve Days of Kindness

Sophie Beer

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1838916800

At Home in a Book

In ‘At Home in a Book’, Lauren O’Hara introduces readers to nine classic tales through a combination of illustration and extracts. This is the sort of book which I would have loved as a child- one which can be explored in different ways, lingered over and enjoyed again and again.

Each book is introduced with an extract, followed by a cross section picture of the home central to that story. This is followed by additional information about characters and other details. Perfect for tempting children to explore one (or more) of these classic books, each section offers a taste of the story without spoiling it and allowing readers to have some understanding of the story before diving in.

But this is also a book to inspire the imagination and develop new stories. Gazing into the cottage Heidi shares with her grandfather, exploring below deck on the Jolly Roger or peeking into 221B Baker Street allows readers to engage with the stories in a different way, particularly if they are already familiar with them. They may question Lauren O’Hara’s interpretation of some of these homes or nod happily in agreement as her vision matches their own. It might inspire some to try capturing other favourite books in the same way- perhaps ‘Mole End’, 32, Windsor Gardens or the Buckets’ home.

The book also offers a world of nostalgia for adults looking back at some of their childhood treasures. It would make a wonderful gift for any booklover- old or young- as well as a lovely addition to libraries.

At Home in a Book

Lauren O’Hara

Puffin ISBN: 978-0241665794

Lockett and Wilde’s Dreadfully Haunting Mysteries: The Ghosts of the Manor

Matilda Lockett has what some might consider an unusual life. Whilst her aunt performs as Signora Valentina, a professional spirit medium, Matilda plays the part of Poor Dead Edna, convincing audiences of her aunt’s abilities. However, when her aunt is asked to visit Beauchamp Manor and rid it of the ghost which is haunting it, Matilda discovers that she really can see ghosts and soon becomes friends with Edgar Wilde, a ghost boy. Working together, they are able to solve the very real mystery of what is actually happening at the manor.

With Lucy Strange writing excellent stories and Pam Smy creating the most fabulous pictures, ‘The Ghosts at the Manor’ was sure to be a book which I would enjoy- and I loved it! The story offers an engaging mystery with a slightly spooky twist and lots of friendship, making it a wonderful read. Matilda and Edgar are lovely characters, who show what teamwork can do and whose partnership is sure to offer plenty more satisfying adventures to come. There are twists and secrets, ghosts and jewels, fakes and fortunes in this story, but at it’s heart is Matilda’s warm relationship with her aunt and ‘Uncle’ Barnabus and her new found friendship with Edgar.

The joy of the story is perfectly captured by Pam Smy’s lovely illustrations. These black and white images with touches of blue add a slightly eerie atmosphere, perfectly in keeping with the gently spooky nature of the story. Children are going to love reading about Matilda and Edgar and will clamour for more!

Lockett and Wilde’s Dreadfully Haunting Mysteries: The Ghosts at the Manor

Lucy Strange and Pam Smy

Walker ISBN: 978-1529516005

Midnight Treasure

Baron Ambrus is a powerful vampir, who lives in luxury in the House of Gold. With him live two orphans, Tibor, a werwolf and Rosa, a vampir who the Baron transformed into a dog to act as Tibor’s companion. When a powerful wizard, Kira Halim, visits them, bringing a magical statue, Tibor is told that he must take go on a quest to find the Midnight Treasure…

A new novel from Piers Today is always something to look forward to - and ‘Midnight Treasure’ is an incredible fantasy, perfect for this (or any!) time of year! Completely enthralling, I read this in one sitting, unable to drag myself away from Tibor and his world.

Gripping from the outset, the plot romps along at a pleasing pace, perfectly balancing world building with action and tension. Beautifully imagined and rich in description, the story builds towards a satisfying conclusion which still leaves plenty of potential for future books. Although pitched at a 9+ audience, this is a story which will be enjoyed by older children (and adults!) who will revel in the level of detail of this breath-taking world.

Tibor is such an engaging character, full of longing for the family he has never known and seeking to find his place in the world. Constantly supported by Rosa with whom he shares a deep bond, he gains the friendship and trust of other characters along the way, most notably Oldest, Slightly and Smallest, fierce warriors, and Bear Man and the tree bears.

It is really hard to review this book without giving too much away and spoiling it for others who have the joy of reading it yet to come. This is a world readers will long to return to, and I, for one, cannot wait for Tibor and Rosa’s next adventure.

Midnight Treasure

Piers Torday

Quercus ISBN: 978-1786541420

The Colour of Revenge

For five years, Mortimer Folchart, the bookbinder, and his daughter, Meggie, have enjoyed living in peace with their family and friends, leaving past events behind them. However, Orpheus Gemelli is determined to wreak revenge on those he believes betrayed him. With the help of an artist, he traps them all in a grey book, making them disappear into ink and paper. But things do not go quite according to plan and Dustfinger, his stepson Jehan, and a young girl called Lilia must save them all.

Anyone who has read the ‘Inkheart’ trilogy knows what an incredibly complex, richly detailed and absorbing world filled with unforgettable characters Cornelia Funke created. ‘The Colour of Revenge’ takes readers back to the Inkworld - and it was such a joy to return.

For those who have not read the previous books, a summary is given at the beginning of the book along with a list of characters to help them orientate themselves. The summary is written by Orpheus, allowing the reader to understand his motivation and desire for revenge, cleverly setting the scene and instantly piquing interest. However, although this story can be read as a stand alone, I cannot believe anyone will be able to resist reading the others!

Cornelia Funke is a powerful writer, depicting all sides of human nature, and does not shy away from portraying darker emotions, violent deeds and their consequences. The dark power of words, the all encompassing destruction of the desire for revenge, the ease with which some slide form one evil deed to another is all here- and yet so is the power of love, the strength of the bonds of family and friendship, the colours of affection.

‘The Colour of Revenge’ is an absolutely compelling and engrossing read. Although pitched at 9+, I personally would recommend it to older children- those in Y6, 7 and above- to immerse themselves fully in this world and its characters.

Will there be another Inkheart book? I hope so. I thought there would be no possibility of a return after ‘Inkdeath’ and I was obviously very mistaken…so here’s hoping!

The Colour of Revenge

Cornelia Funke, translated by Anna Schmitt Funke

Chicken House ISBN: 978-1913696184

Whispering Hollow

Pippa Newton loves nature and loves the time she spends with her grandfather at his cottage in the woods. Her brother, Jed, used to enjoy these trips as well, but now lacks enthusiasm. However, they arrive to find their grandfather reluctant to let them stay and Pippa soon realises that something malevolent is lurking, causing Grandpa to be fearful and act strangely. When Pippa disobeys her grandfather and creeps out into the woods at night to use her night vision binoculars, things quickly spiral out of control.

In ‘Whispering Hollow’, Rachel Burge has created a spooky tale, full of suspense and menace, perfect for the darkening evenings- if you are someone who likes a good scare! The strange behaviour of her grandfather, his unkempt appearance, the sinister twig men hanging around the house create a tense atmosphere from the outset, leaving the reader wondering what might happen next.

Set in Cornwall, the story draws on the rich folklore and traditional tales of that area with hidden folk, spriggan and changelings and the narrative moves between the two worlds. But the story is also about siblings and the deep bonds they can share, of loss and change and family and the wonders of the natural world, making it a satisfying read as well as a dark and creepy one.

Whispering Hollow

Rachel Burge

Welbeck ISBN: 978-1804536179

Blog Tour: Shadow Creatures

I am delighted to be taking part in the Blog Tour for ‘Shadow Creatures’, the latest novel by Chris Vick, whose books are both inspiring and enjoyable.

When visiting her family in Norway, Georgy persuades her grandmother, Tove, and Great-Aunt Liva to tell her about Agna, an old woman, who Georgy saw in the woods. What was initially a ploy to avoid doing the dishes develops into a fascinating story of their youth and the horrifying experience of life under the occupation of the Nazis.

My very simplistic synopsis does nothing to capture the essence of this amazing story, but I didn’t want to fall into the trap of retelling the entire plot! ‘Shadow Creatures’ is a very powerful, compelling book, inspired by family history and incredible people.

Set in occupied Norway during World War II, the action is told as a duel narrative which moves between sisters, Tove and Liva. Fjernoy, a magical island special to the villagers, is turned into a desolate prisoner of war camp and many are forced to work there, seeing first hand the harsh treatment of those held prisoner. In the face of such evil, each individual has to decide what acts of resistance they are prepared to make and how they can balance their own and their loved ones safety with following their conscience. Each viewpoint is skilfully explored with the emotions and experiences of different character being vividly conveyed, filling the reader with great empathy and leaving them wondering how they might have acted if put in this position.

‘Shadow Creatures’ also celebrates Norwegian folklore as the sisters take inspiration from the Huldrefolk, the hidden people- nisse, nixie, huldra, trolls- who act in the shadows to cause mischief and bring trouble to those who cross them. Since reading ‘Shadow Creatures’, I have been hunting for books of Norwegian folklore and am determinedly planning a holiday…

Listening to family, valuing their memories, sharing family history and explaining the importance of family mementos- realising that older people were once young and lived fascinating (or very ordinary!) lives- is something which can be left until it is too late, but through his work, Chris Vick reminds the reader of the importance of sharing time and listening to family around us. Without the incredible memories and experiences of his family, this wonderful novel would not have been written- and that would have been a great loss.

Right and wrong, good and evil- sometimes these things are not as simple as they seem and decisions we make can be complex and have far reaching consequences. ‘Shadow Creatures’ would make an excellent novel to read with children in Y6/7/8, offering not only a wealth of historical and cultural detail, but plenty to consider and discuss. Beautifully written, deeply moving and inspiring, this is a brilliant book!

Shadow Creatures

Chris Vick

Zephyr ISBN: 978-1837933167

Many thanks to Zephyr for inviting me to take part in the Blog Tour.

(I apologise if my review is a bit rambling, but I am struggling with Covid!)

The Twelve

Kit and her little sister, Libby, find themselves with their mother on a winter holiday on the Welsh coast. When Libby vanishes, not even their mother can remember her - it is as if she has been erased from the world. Then Kit meets Story, a local boy, who clearly remembers Libby and determined to solve the mystery surrounding her sister's disappearance, they join forces, embarking on a quest which takes them into a world of myth and folklore, where Kit must face her fears to save her sister.

Deeply atmospheric and compelling, ‘The Twelve’ is a magical read, throbbing with ancient power and mystery. Perfect for those who love something a little different, it is thought-provoking, in places eerie and tense, but also a deeply satisfying adventure.

The relationship between Libby and Kit is really well developed and special. Often animosity and bickering characterise sibling relationships in books, but these sisters have a close bond. Libby is bubbly and energetic, full of passions and impulsive interests, at times exhausting to be around, but the two share wild imaginations and lots of laughter, meaning Kit’s sense of loss is sharp and real when her sister goes missing. Kit is a wonderful character. Tormented by a bully at school, she is vulnerable and full of self doubt; however, her new friendship with Story offers her someone who actually believes in her, someone who sees her worth and allows her gradually to come to see herself in a new light, find the courage she needs to save her sister and, ultimately, to seek help with her tormentor.

Stunning descriptions of the natural world underline the environmental message running through the tale. The beauty of the newly fallen snow, the wonder of the bird life, the power of landscape are all vividly conveyed, forming a magical background to a magical story. A perfect read for this time of year!

The Twelve

Liz Hyder, illustrated by Tom de Freston

Pushkin Press ISBN: 978-1782693987

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

On the Wall

Finlay Tandy is not worried about starting Windfield’s School, but then Finlay doesn’t worry about much. At break and lunch times, he sits alone on an old wall, perfectly happy in his own company. Mr Goodhew, his teacher, finds himself watching Finley’s behaviour and the unusual responses it provokes from those around him as the class navigate their first year at secondary school.

‘On the Wall’ is a quite extraordinary book. It follows the fortunes of Finlay as he starts his years- ‘Another seven!’- at secondary school. Unlike many stories about this transition, Finlay is not a character plagued with self doubt, problems at home or bullying. He is someone who is completely content in his own skin, self reliant and ‘happy absolutely everywhere’. Completely unselfconscious, he is happy to just be- something which most of us struggle to achieve.

As his staff and classmates have different experiences, Finley influences them in different ways. Many don’t understand him, but somehow benefit from how at peace with himself and the world around him Finley is. The story is so beautifully observed with touches of humour and pathos, inspiring readers to be true to themselves and seek happiness in the here and now. However, this is a story you need to read- trying to describe it here cannot do it justice!

Perfect for anyone looking for something a little bit different, a calmer, ‘thinking’ story, ‘On the Wall’ is a really refreshing and enjoyable read!

On the Wall

Anne Fine

Old Barn Books ISBN: 978-1910646991