Reviews
There are so many incredible books available at the moment that it is impossible to read them all, no matter how hard I try! Here are my thoughts about some of the books I have read and how I think they could be used in school as well as Q and A sessions with authors and illustrators.
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
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
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.
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
Ghost Tide
When his mum packs him off to East Anglia to stay with family he hardly knows, Charlie is annoyed that he won’t be able to spend the holidays playing football and hanging out with his friends. Uncle Patrick’s house is dilapidated and his daughter, Ariel, is all but hostile. Finding an ancient box buried on a beach, Charlie unwittingly releases a violent presence which causes mayhem. Working with his cousin, Charlie must somehow set things right once more.
‘Ghost Tide’ is a compelling, chilling read. Atmospheric writing keeps the reader on the edge of their seat as the tension mounts. Not a great lover of being scared, I was really surprised by how much I enjoyed this one!
Charlie is a thoroughly likeable character. Thrust into a situation he would rather have avoided, he tries to make the best of things, empathising with his uncle as Patrick tries to make a new life with his daughter after the death of his wife. Intelligent and curious, he is sensitive to the ghostly whispering voices in his uncle’s house which he can hear, something which he has in common with his cousin and leads to a new understanding between them. Ariel is also well developed and believable and the two make a determined, courageous team as together they face the dangers and challenges which opening the box has triggered.
Rich in descriptive details, the story flows well, building towards a very satisfying conclusion. I loved the references to, and quotes from, The Tempest and the map at the beginning of the book- who doesn’t love a map?! Spine-tinglingly spooky, ‘Ghost Tide’ offers much to enjoy!
Ghost Tide
Jim Cockin
Eye Books ISBN: 978-1785633775
Watts and Whiskerton: Buried Bones and Troublesome Treasure
Watts comes from a family of great detectives, but he is not sure he has what it takes to be one. So when his parents head off on their next case, he goes to stay with an old client of theirs at Whiskerton Manor. Here, he meets Pearl, Count Whiskerton’s daughter, a very curious kitten who really wants to be a detective. When strange things start happening in the Manor grounds, Pearl persuades Watts to investigate…
Proving that opposites attract, Watts and Pearl make the purrr-fect team! This is a delightful story, full of lovely illustrations, gentle humour and a brilliant mystery to solve!
Watts is such a sweet character. Thoughtful and steady, but somewhat lacking in confidence, he believes that he will never be as good at solving mysteries as his parents. However, his new friendship with bubbly, talkative, impetuous Pearl helps him to realise that he is a skilful detective in his own right! So many of us can feel overshadowed by the achievements of others, but like Watts can find our own way in life and come to appreciate the skills we do have!
The story is really carefully plotted and Watts’ notes will help readers to follow each stage of the investigation as it unfolds. A perfect balance of text, illustrations, comic strip, labels and speech bubbles makes this an incredibly appealing book for younger readers, as engaging for those reluctant to read as much as those who devour books! There are many jokes to enjoy- for adults as well as for children- with plays on words like Dr Arty Fact and plenty of visual jokes in the pictures! I particularly like the fact that vocabulary like ‘archaeologist’ is also explained in the context of the story- and readers are given a little insight into how archaeologists work!
Both at home and at school, the book could be used as a starting point for many enjoyable activities. The little finger puppets (pictured above) help to make the story even more interactive as readers can act things out as it progresses or create their own little plays and mysteries and perhaps put on performances! Sections in the story where speech bubbles have been used are perfect for teachers to use to support their teaching of speech punctuation as well as developing speech clauses, drawing on the wonderfully detailed visual clues the pictures give to add the characters’ feelings/ actions. The book would also make the most wonderful prompt for a book group or library session, encouraging children to solve a mystery by following clues- or one which encourages children to create their own comic strips perhaps!
I love Meg McLaren’s picture books (The Station Mouse is my favourite!) and am delighted to discover that her talent for creating endearing characters through gorgeous illustrations and engaging storylines will support children in the next stage of reading. I can’t wait for the next case for Watts and Whiskerton!
Watts and Whiskerton: Buried Bones and Troublesome Treasure
Meg McLaren
Piccadilly ISBN: 978: 1800786592
The Secret Society of Very Important Post
Penny Black and her mother are leaving London and moving to Scotland. This will mean that they can spend more time together, but although Penny should feel happy, she is miserable about having to leave her friend, Wishyouwas- and she can’t bring herself to tell him. However, just as she is about to leave their flat, Wishyouwas himself arrives in need of her help as he has been summoned to Buckingham Palace for a meeting. They discover that a letter from the previous King to the new Queen, Elizabeth II, has been stolen and the Sorters are tasked with retrieving it and getting it to the new queen before her coronation. Will they be able to deliver on time?
Readers first met Wishyouwas in ‘The Tiny Guardian of Lost Letters’, an absolutely wonderful adventure, and it is a pure joy to read another story set in this fantastic world! There is something really charming and magical about all the references to the postal service and all the elements of its past glory, so unfamiliar in this world of email and texting.!
The warm friendship between Penny and Wishyouwas is as lovely as ever and the pair make an excellent team as they set about solving the mystery of the missing letter- the ‘Monarch’s Seal’- accompanied by some familiar faces and some new friends. The mystery is really well plotted, offering clues and red herrings to keep the reader guessing as events unfold. Placed at the time of Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation, the story may well ignite curiosity about this event as well as some of the landmarks mentioned in the story and perhaps seek them out, following in the footsteps of Penny and Wishyouwas. I never knew of the existence of Duck Island Cottage and will be seeking it out on my next trip to London!
There are plenty of illustrations scattered throughout the story, adding to the charm of this engaging story which would be an excellent choice for class story time or for using as a guided reading text. I look forward to the next ‘Wishyouwas Mystery’!
The Secret Society of Very Important Post
Alexandra Page, illustrated by Penny Neville-Lee
Bloomsbury ISBN: 978-1526644336
You can read my review of ‘Wishyouwas: The Tiny Guardian of Lost Letters’ here.
Alice Éclair: A Dash of Daring
When an ingenious cipher machine, capable of converting messages into unreadable code in seconds, and its creator go missing, Alice Éclair finds herself once more in the thick of the action, this time at the Olympic training camp, where the daughter of the missing machine maker is getting ready to compete in the cycling events. Working undercover- and facing the challenges of creating healthy desserts- in the Olimpic kitchens, Alice is determined to solve the case.
This is the fourth and – I hate to say it- final book in the incredibly popular series about the clever, creative and kind-hearted, Alice Éclair, everyone’s favourite spy Every bit as delicious as its predecessors, ‘A Dash of Daring’ offers a very satisfying conclusion.
The story is packed with the usual clues and red herrings which make solving the case so enjoyable and there is plenty of code breaking to tickle the tastebuds. Developing relationships, coming to understand others and overcoming barriers are things which Alice is good at and once again, she makes new friends and meets up with some old ones as she rises to the challenges of the case and faces her nemesis.
Adele, the Olympic cyclist, has a twin, Hugo, a talented designer, who happens to be in a wheelchair. Having taken guidance from a fellow author, Sarah Todd Taylor offers a sensitive, accurate portrayal of his experiences, seamlessly adding this to the story, but greatly enriching the understanding and empathy of readers in the process.
An excellent conclusion to an excellent series!
Alice Éclair: A Dash of Daring
Sarah Todd Taylor, illustrated by Beatriz Castro
Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1839948879
Published 6th June
You can read my review of ‘A Spoonful of Spying’ here and ‘A Sprinkling of Danger’ here.
Pinch Perkins and the Midsummer Curse
Pinch Perkins lives on Tricky Dragon Lane, in the heart of London’s magic quarter. Impulsive and curious, she is determined to discover who is cursing magical Londoners- including her mum- who are left in an enchanted coma known as the Sleeping Beauty curse. Reluctantly teaming up with her annoying neighbour, Henry de Sallowe, Pinch sets off in an incredible race against time to save her mother and the other Sleepers!
Such a sort summary of such an action-packed book! ‘Pinch Perkins and the Midsummer Curse’ is an absolutely brilliant read and one which I would highly recommend to readers young- and not so young!
Much has been made recently in some quarters about longer books being too much for children to sustain- and this is a longer read; however, I have taught many children over the years (including recently!) who thrive on such books, loving the detail and world building they offer, allowing the reader to sink into that world and experience it with the characters. These readers need books like this one - and have as much right to them as those who find joy in shorter, quicker reads have a right to those! For those who love to be absorbed into a story, Pinch Perkins offers a wonderfully detailed, highly imaginative, compelling read.
Pinch is a very appealing character whose determination to save her mother and the other Sleepers leads her into all manner of situations, meeting fairies, knights, ancient evils and modern perils along the way. As her friendship with Henry develops, they make a great team, supporting and complementing each other as they face dangerous situations like the court of the Fairy King and Queen- Ronnie and Tania!-and meeting the tricky Bucca.
Evocative descriptions, moments of humour, captivating characters and a pacey, exciting plot combined with a deliciously imaginative world make this a book which would make an excellent read for engaging a class and one which I will be recommending highly to friends and colleagues! I am aware that this is a somewhat waffly review for which I apologise- but I loved ‘Pinch Perkins and the Midsummer Curse’ very much and cannot wait to read her next adventure!
Pinch Perkins and the Midsummer Curse
Cathy FitzGerald, illustrated by Chloe Dominique
Farshore ISBN: 978-0008603373
Published June 2024
Blog Tour: Bringing Back Kay-Kay
Today, I am delighted to be taking part in the Blog Tour for ‘Bringing Back Kay-Kay’. Sensitively written, it is a beautiful exploration of sibling love, a gripping mystery and a celebration of the power of poetry.
For me, ‘Bringing Back Kay-Kay was a one-sitting read! Beautifully written, the story is about Lena, whose brother, Kay-Kay, goes missing whilst on a school trip. Overcome with grief, their parents put their trust in the police and hope that they will find him. However, Lena is sure that one of Kay-Kay’s friends knows more than he is letting on and so sets off on a quest to find her beloved brother and bring him home.
The story unfolds through Lena’s thoughts, actions and memories, building a picture of her complex family relationship. She feels like the ‘difficult’ child, somehow lesser than her perfect brother, almost, at times, unwanted and yet her closeness to her sibling is never in doubt. As she searches for Kay-Kay, she explores her memories and realises just how much her brother does for her- and starts to understand just how difficult things have been for him. Discovering his poetry, Lena discovers how he feels the weight of parental expectations bearing down on him and comes to understand her brother even more. I cannot recommend this book highly enough- it will take you on an emotional rollercoaster whilst engaging you fully in an excellent and carefully constructed adventure.
Poetry has always been very important to me, both personally and as a teacher, and it is a joy to see how Kay-Kay was able to express his inner feelings in this way and how his sister responded to his words. Below, Dev Kothari explains why she chose to use poetry in her story.
Magic of poetry
I’ve always found poetry magical. I still remember some of the poems I learnt at school, while growing up in India, like P. B. Shelley’s Mutability or Christina Rossetti’s Who Has Seen The Wind or Bhawani Prasad Mishra’s Satpura Ke Jungle. Even then, I was struck by the power of verse – it’s ability to connect with you at a deeper, emotional, instinctual level. Over the years, I’ve read a lot of poetry works. But it took me a while to figure out the kind of poetry that speaks to me. Verses that are simple yet profound, that make time stop for me, that make me feel. The poetry of Rumi and Mary Oliver, of Wisława Szymborska and Do Jong Hwan, of Gulzaar saab and Michael Rosen. My life is so much richer because of the gifts of poetry. And I think that’s why it makes its way into my writing too, in some shape or form. In fact, my very first attempts at writing, right from my childhood were in the form of poems. So, it’s probably not a surprise that there’s poetry in Bringing Back Kay-Kay too. When I began writing it, I didn’t particularly set out to make Kay-Kay a poet. It just turned out that way, when I wrote the scene about Lena finding one of his poems in an old copy of Kahlil Gibran’s The Prophet (naturally!). Of course he’s a poet, I thought. In that instant, suddenly, Kay-Kay became real to me. I love that Kay-Kay is able to pen his thoughts and worries, dreams and fears through poetry. I love that Lena and the readers get to know him better through his poems. And I love that I get to spread some of the magic of poetry through this story. Wouldn’t it be an absolute joy and privilege, if reading this story inspires young people to read more poetry and write it too?
Bringing Back Kay-Kay by Dev Kothari (£7.99, Walker Books) available now.
Many thanks to Dev Kothari and the lovely team at Walker Books for inviting me to take part in this Blog Tour. Keep an eye out for the other stops on the tour to find out more about this wonderful book!
Aliya to the Infinite City
Since the death of her parents, Aliya has lived in Cairo with her grandfather, Geddo. Recently, he has been acting strangely, disappearing for hours on end and forgetting her birthday. When a mysterious gift arrives, things change dramatically. Geddo is taken away and Aliya finds herself whisked off on a flying carpet by a relative she never knew she had. Finding herself in the Infinite City, she is enrolled as a student at the Infinitum School of Time Travel. But she finds herself a target for the evil forces her grandfather had tried so hard to hide her from- Dorian Darke, a master of time who wants to use Aliya’s special skills for his own devious ends.
Offering an absorbing read, ‘Aliya to the Infinite City’ is a fabulous adventure, full of magic and mystery. Set in an alternate Egypt, Laila Rifaat’s world building is vivid and colourful, seamlessly interweaving cultural details into the story. Mischievous magic carpets, sinister genies and knowledge turbans all feature in this exciting tale!
Discovering that she comes from a long line of time travellers, Aliya has to navigate an unfamiliar world full of mystery and magic. A likeable character, she shows great determination and courage as she tries to uncover details of her family’s past and find her own place in the world. The plot is full of action with many twists and turns keeping the reader well and truly enthralled as the story builds towards its exciting climax, paving the way for more adventures to come. I am very much looking forward to the next book in the series!
Aliya to the Infinite City
Laila Rifaat
Chicken House ISBN: 978-1915026354
Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.
Winner Takes Gold
Pearl dreams of winning a place on the GB Mini Elite Squad. Her mother, who was a coach at the local club, Bagley End Butterflies, passed away the year before and Pearl is determined to ‘light up the world’ with her shine as mum would have wanted. When her friend, Ryan, wins a place at Leaping Spires training camp as part of the squad without her, Pearl is devasted until a place becomes available.
However, life at the elite training camp is incredibly tough with a strict regime focusing on being better than the best. Rumours about the ‘Curse of Leaping Spires’ start flying around as accidents and mishaps seem to dog the students, leading Pearl and Ryan to suspect sabotage. Just how far will someone go to take gold?
Once I started ‘Winner Takes Gold’, I could not put it down! There is so much to enjoy in these pages.
I have taught many children over the years with a love of gymnastics, some of whom have been involved at a competitive level, and a book like this would be an absolute winner with them. The level of technical accuracy employed in describing the moves will instantly appeal to those who are familiar with them, but these are worked into the plot so seamlessly that they are not off-putting for the non-gymnast. The strong sense of mystery, the thrill of the chase and uncovering the person behind the ‘accidents’ all make this a compelling story.
Pearl shows the level of dedication and determination needed by those who long to be successful. Passionate, she shows a level of unswerving commitment to her sport, constantly pushing herself to achieve and be the best she can. But the story clearly shows that there is more to being successful in any sport than winning accolades and prizes. Friendship, family and personal wellbeing are essential, but just as important are staying true to yourself and being fair and honest.
The book would be an excellent choice for a class story time, sure to encourage plenty of discussion and debate about sporting attitudes and values amongst other things. Although Pearl is at the centre of the story, boys’ gymnastics is also key in the story as Pearl’s friend, Ryan, and the other boys in the squad are shown training and competing.
A great read!
Winner Takes Gold Eloise Smith
Chicken House ISBN: 978-1915026309
The Clockwork Conspiracy
Isaac Turner lives with his dad who is the Keeper of the Great Clock in the Palace of Westminster, tending the clock everyone thinks is called Big Ben, but isn’t. On the night the clocks go back, Isaac’s father disappears from the belfry, leaving only his broken pocket watch behind. Isaac is determined to find him and, with the help of Hattie, daughter of his godfather, follows a trail of clues across London, uncovering a sinister plot as they race against time.
After the fantastic ‘Adventures on Trains’ series, I expected Sam Sedgman’s new book, ‘The Clockwork Conspiracy’ to be an excellent read- and it was! Not only is this a gripping, action-packed mystery, but the whole story is scattered with interesting facts, trivia and history, making it a richly satisfying read.
Isaac and Hattie make an excellent team. Complete opposites, they bring out the best in one another and make a formidable duo, as they face every challenge and puzzle thrown at them. Hattie is quick-witted, rebellious and impetuous whilst Isaac is cautious, methodical and conscientious.
As the minutes tick by (shown by the chapter headings), Isaac and Hattie scramble across the rooftops of London, deciphering clues and solving puzzles to save Isaac’s father and defeat those plotting to change time and take over the world! Tension builds as the story reaches its very satisfying conclusion, leaving the reader wanting another mystery for Isaac and Hattie to solve which there is a sneak peak of at the end of the book.
Notes at the end of the story by Sam Sedgman clarify some elements of the story, explaining where he has ‘strayed from the truth’ and which are real, all of which adds to the enjoyment of this excellent story. We’ve booked the guided tour of Queen Elizabeth Tower to see Big Ben..!
The Clockwork Conspiracy Sam Sedgman
Bloomsbury ISBN: 978-1526665386
You can read my reviews of ‘The Arctic Railway Assassin’ here, ‘Sabotage on the Solar Express’ here and Epic Adventures: Explore the World in 12 Amazing Train Journeys’ here.
Twice Upon a Time
The Morrow twins, Merry and Spike, have an unusual connection with time. One born before midnight, one after, they are not only born on different days, but different years, with clocks in the house stopping to mark the time for each. When their mother, an art restorer, takes a job at Fox House, the twins are convinced they are in for a dreary holiday, but they soon find themselves caught up in mysterious happenings and unsolved mysteries which they begin to investigate using their own secret - the power to manipulate time.
I am a huge fan of Michelle Harrison’s books, particularly the ‘Pinch of Magic’ series. The brilliantly developed Widdershins sisters and cleverly drawn, well-imagined locations of these stories make them compelling reading and I was delighted to find that characters and settings are also strengths of ‘Twice Upon a Time’!
The Morrow twins might be identical, but they have very different personalities and tendencies. Merry (Meredith) is a dreamer, full of imagination and a love of words, constantly writing poems whilst Spike (Rose) has a fascination with poisons and as her nickname suggests, a somewhat prickly personality. Since having had meningitis a few years ago, Spike suffers with tinnitus, which affects her greatly, causing the reader to both develop an awareness of, and empathise with, her condition. They make a great team, using their talent occasionally for mischief, but more often to help unravel the mystery surrounding Fox House. Ben Gumbley, who lives at the house, makes an excellent addition to the group and is soon party to their secret.
The plot is perfectly paced, with clues and misdirection along the way, as it builds to a very satisfying conclusion. I have no wish to spoil the story for anyone else so won’t say any more about it, except that it is an excellent read. My only concern is whether there will be any more stories about the Merrow girls- and possibly Ben! It feels to me as if there should me more adventures for them- and yet, the book works perfectly as a stand alone. Perhaps I’m just being greedy!
Twice Upon a Time
Michelle Harrison, illustrated by Natalie Smillie
Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1471197673
You can read my review of ‘A Pinch of Magic’ here, ‘A Sprinkle of Sorcery’ here, ‘A Tangle of Spells’ here and ‘A Storm of Sisters’ here.
Marnie Midnight and the Moon Mystery
Marnie Midnight is really excited to be starting at Minibeast Academy where she hopes to follow in the footsteps of her heroine, Lunora Wingheart, the famous Moonologist who used to be a pupil there. But, to her disappointment, Marnie soon finds out that nobody believes in moon magic anymore. Determined to get to the bottom of this mystery, Marnie and her new friends, Star and Floyd, decide to search for the truth…
From her introduction, portrait gallery of characters and map of Thimbledown to the end of the story, this new story from Laura Ellen Anderson is a charming, captivating adventure, perfect for fans of her ‘Amelia Fang’ and ‘Rainbow Grey’ series.
The detailed world building is wonderful and there are plenty of mini-beast facts woven into the tale, making this delightful story the perfect starting point for discovering more. Marnie, Floyd and Star are great characters- each personality is well-developed, showing how different natures can complement each other, each bringing their own strengths to a friendship, offering support.
The illustrations are delightful, adding much to the book and sparking imagination and interest. Whether sharing as a class story, a bedtime read or for children to love as an independent read, ‘Marnie Midnight and the Moon Mystery’ is a real joy!
Marnie Midnight and the Moon Mystery
Laura Ellen Anderson
Farshore ISBN: 978-0008591335
The Secret of Helmersbruk Manor: A Christmas Mystery
Flora and her mother are spending the Christmas holidays in a cottage found in the grounds of a decaying mansion in he seaside town of Helmersbruk. It’s their first Christmas without Flora’s father and things are strange and difficult for them so her mother thought the break would do them good. However, Helmersbruk is dark and rainy and when they arrive at the Gatekeeper’s Cottage, the gate seems locked and no one is around apart from Fridolf, who lives next door in the Washhouse. But as Flora explores the Manor grounds, her imagination runs wild and she comes to love it there. Strange whispers, mysterious porcelain figures and the occasional appearance of a boy called Egon increase her fascination with the place and she starts to uncover a fascinating mystery which links the past and the present.
The story is told in twenty-four chapters, making it perfect for reading as an advent book in the countdown to Christmas Day- but I challenge anyone to be able to read it like this! The story is so compelling and absorbing that it is impossible to put down! Carefully placed clues, engaging characters and evocative writing make this a fabulous read- one which is sure to be enjoyed again and again despite the mystery having been solved!
Each chapter beings with a black and white illustration, adding to the atmosphere of the story. Flora is drawn to the Mansion and there are shivery moments, carefully placed to intrigue and pique the reader’s interest and imagination as the Manor’s secrets are revealed. Flora is reeling from the loss of her father, struggling with the rejection of her once-best-friend, Johanna, and the bullying of the horsey girls at school and Helmersbruk Manor offers her peace and a feeling of belonging. She learns to trust again, finding friendship as she strives to save the Manor from a threatened re-development as a hotel complex.
An excellent story, ‘The Secret of Helmersbruk Manor’ is a brilliant, gripping story- perfect for Christmas, but a great read at any time of year!
The Secret of Helmersbruk Manor: A Christmas Mystery
Eva Frantz, translated by A A Prime, illustrated by Elin Sandstrom
Pushkin Press ISBN: 978-1782694182
Mermedusa
This fifth and final trip to Eerie-on-Sea concludes Herbie and Violet’s adventures and, like others I’m sure, I read ‘Mermedusa’ with mixed feelings- delight at another visit to one of my favourite fictional places and great sadness that there would be no more!
The hosts of the Anomalous Phenomena podcast have arrived in Eerie-on-Sea with the intention of uncovering the truth about the Malamander and broadcast this to the world. Already troubled by unsettling dreams and a strange humming throbbing through the town, Herbert Lemon, Lost-and-Founder at the Grand Nautilus Hotel, is horrified when his arch-nemesis, Sebastian Eels, re-appears in the town. Together, Herbie and Violet must discover the Deepest Secret of eerie-on-Sea- and ‘find’ themselves in the process.
‘Mermedusa’ is a stunning finish to what has been the most enjoyable series of books. Thomas Taylor cleverly draws all the threads of the story together, offering a satisfying conclusion to the mysteries of Eerie-on-Sea. Most importantly, Violet and Herbie have not only found themselves, but have found each other in a true and enduring friendship which really shows how opposites attract and complement each other!
Each character in these books is wonderfully unique and completely unforgettable from the Mermonkey at The Eerie Book Dispensary and Erwin the talking cat to the eccentric Lady Kraken who watches the town with her cameraluna and grumpy hotel manager, Mr Mollusc, who the reader learns more of in this final book.
As well as making an excellent series to be enjoyed and explored independently, these books are excellent for guided reading sessions or as whole class story time texts. Full of humour and heart, there are so many ways in which the ‘Eerie-on-Sea Mysteries’ are perfect for developing a love of reading.
Mermedusa Thomas Taylor
Walker ISBN: 978-1529502138
Published on 7th September
Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.
You can read my review of ‘Malamander’ here and ‘Festergrimm’ here. (Apologies that ‘Shadowghast’ is missing from the photo- it’s been borrowed!)
The Silver Road
Rosaleen Darke- Rose- is struggling at her new school. Tormented by Emer McGuire and her ‘fan club’ for being a scholarship pupil, Rose is also still grieving the loss of her Mamó, who she misses desperately. Taking the long way home from school, however, has the benefit of taking her past the shops of Gracie and Nellie with whom she has developed a friendship.
Unable to sleep one night, Rose hears noises and finds herself facing an ice giant, who entrusts her with a powerful stone which Rose must keep from falling into the wrong hands. Luckily Gracie and Nellie are not quite what they seem and are able to explain to Rose that she has been chosen as the stone’s guardian. As the Old Magic is weakening, evil is rising and Rose finds herself on a breath-taking quest to protect the Silver Road and the magic than runs through the land.
Well, what a story this is! Any attempt at a summary seems clumsy and cannot possibly capture the essence of this wonderful tale. Drawing on the age-old mythology of Ireland, ‘The Silver Road’ offers the perfect starting point for introducing readers to this wealth of stories whilst appreciating Sinéad’s skill as a storyteller as she adds plenty of imagination and flair of her own. I was captivated from the outset and could not put the book down and since finishing, have been inspired to revisit some of the old tales.
Rose is a brilliant character. Fresh and uncomplicated, she just wants to fit in and do her best. Although she has a loving, supportive family, like many, she doesn’t want to add to their worries by sharing her problems, particularly as her dad’s employer is Emer’s dad. She escapes into her books, but also takes comfort from the friendship she forms with Gracie and Nellie. They are incredible souls, not just because of their magic, but because of the kindness they show- and their love of cake! Catshee, the cat, not cat is possibly my favourite character, however, and shows how skilfully the author blends the traditional and the newly imagined to make a tale of wonder.
‘The Silver Road’ whispers to the reader of so many things- the importance of our environment, the magic of the old tales, our connection to the land and to one another, the importance of family, finding the strength to be yourself and have the determination and courage to face things life throws at you. It is a brilliantly crafted tale and I loved it. It would make an excellent guided reading text for the ‘right’ group of children or a gripping class story. So much to love!
The Silver Road Sinéad O’Hart
Piccadilly Press ISBN: 978-1800785090
Published 28th September 2023
A Sprinkling of Danger
‘A Sprinkling of Danger’ finds Alice Éclair on another spying adventure. When an American film crew arrives at the beautiful palace of Versailles, there is great excitement, but suspicions that a spy is amongst them means Alice is once more on the case. Using her baking skills, Alice manages to gain a place on set along with her fellow spy, Pierre. However, Pierre seems to have his own agenda, leaving Alice to face danger on her own. This could be her stickiest mission yet…
…there is something very magical about cake and kindness.
Every bit as delicious as the two previous mysteries, ‘A Sprinkling of Danger’ is a brilliant read. Alice remains as resourceful and determined, combining excellent observation skills, a passion for pastries and a nose for adventure as she solves the mission she has been set. In this story, she not only has to contend with solving the case, but is also challenged by the sneering, unhelpful actions of Pierre who is supposed to be working on her side, but is as obnoxious as can be.
Versailles (one of my favourite places in the world!) makes a magical backdrop for the tale and the author has done a wonderful job of capturing the beauty and wonder of this stunning location, dropping little nuggets of historical information in every now and then. Against this setting, Alice whips up her fantastic culinary treats, making the reader’s mouth water as they try to crack the case. There are plenty of red herrings to distract and misdirect, but in the end, Alice triumphs, not only exposing the enemy spy, but resolving her questions about Pierre.
Perfect for reading as part of the series or as a stand-alone adventure, the story ends with hints about a next mission and I, for one, can’t wait to read it!
Alice Éclair Spy Extraordinaire: A Sprinkling of Danger
Sarah Todd Taylor, illustrations by Beatriz Castro
Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1839948855
Out on the 14th September!
Blog Tour: The Sundae Delivery Service
Today, it is my great pleasure to be taking part in the blog tour for ‘The Sundae Delivery Service’ by Holly Rivers. Below is my review…
After their previous adventure, life for Orinthia and the others have settled back into life working for Grandy Brock and his animails at The Mailbox Menagerie. However, the offer of free ice cream is too much for them and this leads to a new friendship with Dotty, daughter of the owners of the ‘Penny Lick’ ice cream van and the ‘Two Scoops Creamery’. Soon, the children are helping with the ice cream parlour’s entry for the prestigious Golden Udder ice cream awards and training cows to deliver their entry to the judges. However, the world of ice cream making is more devious than they would ever have believed and they find themselves at the heart of a mystery!
With so many fabulous books around, sometimes you find you’ve missed a real goodie… and I have to confess that I haven’t read the first book in this series- ‘The Boy in the Post’- but will be rectifying this immediately! Whilst it is absolutely possible to read ‘The Sundae Delivery Service’ without having read the previous book, it seems to me I’ve missed a treat by not doing so!
Full of quirky originality and charm, the story is a joy to read. The children are very ‘real’ with their own idiosyncrasies, interests and personalities which creates a cast of engaging characters. Orinthia and new friend, Dotty, are at centre stage for this adventure, but each of the others feels like a fully formed character, not just an add on. The friendship between these two is lovely- an immediate, uncomplicated relationship which survives fallings out and comes back stronger. Both girls are resourceful, curious and determined to solve the mystery surrounding the competition- they make a great team.
The story is also very well written, full of carefully chosen vocabulary and vivid descriptions. It would make an excellent guided reading text as it offers plenty to discuss and explore whilst thoroughly enjoying the story. I very much hope there are more adventures to come for these characters.
The Sundae Delivery Service
Holly Rivers
Chicken House ISBN: 978-1912626052
Many thanks to Chicken House for inviting me to take part in this Blog Tour. There are plenty more post to go so make sure you follow on and enjoy them all!