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.

NNFN2024: Flight: From a Balloon to the Moon – and Beyond

I apologise for the absence of pictures from this post. Squarespace is useless and keeps changing things. It currently will not allow me to add images, although yesterday, there was no problem with this.

From the story of Brother Elmer, a flying monk, to looking towards a greener future for the aviation industry, ‘Flight’ offers a completely absorbing look at the history of flying through the stories of the men and women whose achievements helped its development.

Each story is attractively presented, starting with a full-page illustration by Terri Po and the date and location of each is given under the title. The courage, creativity and passion of these pioneers is celebrated as their adventures are recounted and the author includes information about other developments in each field and other pioneers who achieved them.

Whether you are someone interested in aviation or not, ‘Flight’ is a fascinating read. Names like the Wright Brothers, Louis Blériot and Queen Bess are probably familiar to many, but the book also includes the stories of people like a nameless ten-year-old boy, persuaded by George Cayley to fly the glider he had designed, who is thought to be the first person to fly a plane anywhere in the world! Another less familiar name is that of Katherine Stinson, who became the first female pilot authorised by the American government to carry mail by air and went on to stunt-flying.

‘Flight’ takes the reader through history up to the most recent developments in flying experience. The book closes with the development of SpaceShipOne and challenges the reader to reflect on the environmental impact of flight and rocket launches, finishing with a section on the possibilities of ‘greener’ flight.

Perfect for enriching the primary curriculum, developing an interest in aviation or for discovering more about key players in this field, ‘Flight’ make an excellent addition to any library or bookshelf.

Flight: From a Balloon to the Moon – and Beyond

David Long, illustrated by Terri Po

Faber    ISBN: 978-0571374793

NNFN2024: Nature's Fascinating Friendships

‘Nature’s Fascinating Friendships’ is a beautifully presented factual text which celebrates ‘mutualistic symbiosis’ or the interactions between different species where both sides benefit. The book starts by zooming in on the ‘friend on the inside’ which humans have- the bacteria which keeps us healthy - before moving around the world, continent by continent to explore the ‘fascinating friendships’ which can be found there.

The text is written in a pleasant, ‘chatty’ style with clear, concise explanations, making it an informative and pleasurable read. Some pages include a quiz question (with answers at the bottom or side of the page!) and others encourage the reader to look for things in the illustrations, adding an interactive element to enjoy. The illustrations are really eye-catching, using colour to great effect, offering the perfect accompaniment to the text.

There is a real sense of how nature works smoothly through these partnerships which encourages readers to reflect on the benefits of harmonious relationships. Indeed, the book ends with a section on how we can be friends to nature, a suitable conclusion to this thought-provoking look at the natural world. A valuable addition to bookshelves, this is a book which will absorb and inspire!

Nature’s Fascinating Friendships

Mike Hills, illustrated by Kerry Hyndman

Faber ISBN: 978-0571372591

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.

The Secret of Golden Island

Yakov has fled to England to escape the war at home. Skylar’s beloved grandfather is unwell.

When the two children meet, they recognise something in each other: a reckless desire to change things for the better… Then a competition is announced. To win a nearby island! Yakov and Skylar are convinced the island will make everything better, but the odds are stacked against them.

Taken from the blurb.

A new book by Natasha Farrant is something very special. In ‘The Secret of Golden Island’ she has, once again, produced a superb adventure story, full of warmth and wonder. She manages to create a very intimate atmosphere, appealing directly to the reader and taking them with her on the most wonderful escapades.

In Yakov and Skylar, she has created two very different characters, who are both emotionally vulnerable. Yakov has had to leave behind everything he knows, his home country torn by war. Skylar is struggling to cope with how ill the grandfather she adores is. The reader feels huge sympathy for each child, empathising with their situations as they try, in their different ways, to cope with, and make sense of, what is happening. When they come, together, each is able to offer the other some comfort and a deep friendship develops.

And together, they take on the adventure of a lifetime, facing challenges and dangers with determination and courage as the prospect of winning the island gives them both hope for the future. It is an absolute joy from start to finish, a captivating read, certain to become a firm favourite with teachers and their classes as well as those who enjoy an exciting bedtime story.

Can’t recommend this one highly enough!

The Secret of Golden Island

Natasha Farrant

Faber and Faber ISBN: 978-0571382507

You can read my review of ‘The Rescue of Ravenswood’ here, ‘Voyage of the Sparrowhawk’ here and ‘The Children of Castle Rock’ here.

NNFN2023: Chews Your Own Tasty Adventure

Day five of National Non-Fiction November 2023 and we’re cooking on gas!

There are cookery books for children - and then there is this cookery book! ‘Chews Your Own Tasty Adventure’ is a highly engaging, creative approach to cooking and baking which allows the reader to choose (or chews!) their own culinary adventure.

My son used to love the ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ series when he was younger which called upon the reader to make decisions at key points of the story, giving him a sense of involvement. This cookery book works along similar lines, challenging the reader to take make choices which will alter the final dish! The book starts by introducing the ingredients used in the book, starting with flour. Having offered a bit of historical background, a fun fact or two and a little rhyme about each, the reader is then asked to either make a choice- hot or cold, sweet or savoury- or at a point where they have all the required ingredients, to head to a recipe.

There are sweet and savoury treats included here, each a vegetarian recipe. A short introduction offers a little background information- perhaps how to pronounce a name, a little about their origin and the ingredients, all building a young cook’s knowledge of the ingredients and recipes they are using and encouraging them to engage with food, have fun with cooking and enjoy the experience. There are tips and bonus recipes to discover along the way and at the end of each recipe are are page numbers for the reader to choose the final element of their recipe!

A comprehensive glossary, an index of recipes and a recipe index (covering the ingredients) make this a very user-friendly book as well as something exciting and different- a great gift to give- not just for a child, but for a whole family to explore and share. The use of fun, bright illustrations is another stroke of genius as the usual photographs of unattainable perfection in a cookery book can be really off-putting!

A really fun and engaging way of encouraging an interest in, knowledge and enjoyment of the food we eat, ‘Chews Your Own Tasty Adventure’ is a real winner!

Chews Your Own Tasty Adventure

Dr Sai Pathmanathan, illustrated by Lucia Vinti

Faber ISBN: 978-0571370641

You can read more from Dr Sai Pathmanathan in the piece she wrote as part of the NNFN2023 celebrations on the FCBG website.

The Taming of the Cat

Brie is an unusual mouse. Unlike the other mice in the cheese shop colony, he prefers breadcrumbs and grain to cheese and has a head full of stories. These things do not endear him to the other mice and he finds himself lonely- and cold. Seeking warmth, Brie finds himself caught in the paws of the fearsome, Gorgonzola, the cheese shop cat. In this life-or-death situation, Brie decides to distract her by telling her stories inspired by the labels on the different cheeses. Caught between the animosity of his mouse community and the threat of death by cat, he must weave a tale which will change his life.

In the tradition of Scheherazade, the tales told by Brie are framed by his own life story, making this a wonderfully rich and entertaining book with plenty to recommend it. The nature of cats and their predator/ prey relationship with mice is not shied away from, but this is an important part of the story, building a clear picture of Gorgonzola’s personality and increasing the sense of tension and the feeling of peril for Brie’s situation.

Brie is a wonderful character. Different from the other, he is victimised by the other mice for being different, for having his own interests. Although his relationship with Gorgonzola begins through necessity as Brie wishes to survive, it develops into a true friendship, something which is lacking in his fellows, offering plenty to discuss. In Gorgonzola, Helen Cooper has captured a real essence of cat which is a joy to read!

The story which Brie tells is shaped and developed in response to Gorgonzola’s interests and whims as much as it is inspired by the pictures and names on the cheese labels. It is a magical tale and one which is sure to inspire children to create stories of their own- perhaps as a collaborative activity, sparked by things around them.

Lavishly illustrated, the book is full of pictures to linger over and enjoy, the perfect complement to the story.

The Taming of the Cat Helen Cooper

Faber ISBN: 978-0571376018

Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.

You can read my review of The Hippo at the End of the Hall here.

The Rescue of Ravenswood

Ravenswood has been home to Bea and Raffy for as long as they can remember. To them, it’s perfect so when faced with the idea it could be sold, the children are determined to save it no matter what.

Natasha Farrant crafts the most beautiful stories which are full of heart and hope and in ‘The Rescue of Ravenswood’, she has captured the essence of the love of home and belonging, the topsy-turviness of family- however that is formed- and how special places can be.

Bold and brave, Bea is in her element at Ravenswood. However, she struggles with feelings of rejection by her parents, feeling she can never be the person they want her to be. Although not her ‘real’ sibling, Raffy and she are incredibly close, enjoying a special bond and balancing each other’s personalities. When Noa arrives, the dynamic between them changes and what was supposed to be their perfect summer seems threatened. Each character is full of personality and easy to engage and empathise with.

Ravenswood is special to the children in the way in which many people will be able to relate to the places in their lives, places which are worth fighting for and worth preserving for future generations. As the children bring everyone together to save their most precious place, certain truths come to light and ‘everything changes, but everything stays the same’.

There is so much to enjoy about this story. Natasha Farrant always offers something special and ‘The Rescue of Ravenswood’ is a real treasure.

The Rescue of Ravenswood Natasha Farrant

Faber ISBN: 978-0571348787

Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.

You can read my review of ‘Voyage of the Sparrowhawk’ here and ‘The Children of Castle Rock’ here.

The Treekeepers

Home to thousands, the city of Arborven owes its existence to the Undrentree. A well as the buildings covering the tree, set in rings around it are the city circles where the different layers of society live- the farther away from the tree, the less magic the inhabitants have. As a shapewalker, Liska, training to be a warrior, lives in the noon Fort, nestled on the northern wall. When she overhears a plan which threatens the city, Liska cannot find anyone who will believe her and so with Lug, a vermispex who can summon and control worms, Elowen, a ghost-girl, and Fishbone, a feisty kittimew, she sets off on an epic, perilous adventure to save her home.

When it comes to creating fantasy worlds, there is none better than Kieran Larwood. The richness of his imagination, the evocative details of his world building, the charm of his flawed but endearing characters – all combine to create the most breath-taking, engaging reads which leave the reader longing to return to the world of the book they have just finished. ‘The Treekeepers’ is just glorious- and (in my opinion) even better than ‘The Five Realms’ stories.

Friendship is at the heart of the story, showing the importance of valuing others and appreciating them for what and who they are. At the beginning of the story, Liska is determined to earn stripes- marks of gleaming colour for great deeds of courage and heroism- yet by the end of the story, realises that such marks of honour are not necessary to show what sort of person someone is. As she has come to know her companions, her appreciation of them- their kindness, their courage, their loyalty- has grown as has she in character. Both she and Lug are, at heart, very ‘normal’ children whose hopes and dreams, whose insecurities and vulnerabilities readers will identify and empathise with.

Beautifully written, with almost poetic descriptions at times, the story offers a rich vocabulary, including Larwood’s own ingenious namings- vermispex not doubt drawing on the Latin ‘vermis’ for worm, kittimew (my favourite), Arborven from a place sheltered by trees to name a few- as well as a sprinkling of mythical creatures.

It is impossible to review this book without commenting on the incredible presentation of the book as an object of beauty. The dust jacket illustrated by Fernando López Juárez is tempting enough, but peel this off, and there is a map of Larwood’s world embossed in gold on the hard cover of the book. Chris Wormell is also responsible for the lovely chapter heading illustrations.

Simply stunning!

The Treekeepers Kieran Larwood, illustrated by Chris Wormell

cover by Fernando López Juárez

Faber ISBN: 978-0571364565

Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.

Blog Tour: Gender Swapped Greek Myths

The myths and legends that the Ancient Greeks created are amongst the best known and most retold. Elements of these stories have permeated our everyday life and language- Achille’s heel, Herculean strength, having the Midas touch. These are stories which have stood the test of time- stories of heroes, monsters, gods, goddesses and mortals filled with tragedy, mystery, adventure, envy, courage, vengeance and love.

Although the versions written for children are generally sanitised and simplified. It is not often, for example, that Medusa’s rape in the temple of Athena is included, nor the fact that Athena then punished Medusa for this. Rooted in a patriarchal society, women in these stories are depicted in accordance to the beliefs and values of these times. Whilst the men are generally portrayed as heroic and powerful, women tended to their needs and gave birth to their children or waited passively to be rescued- with the stories emphasising the dire consequences for any who might think otherwise.

In this new collection of re-tellings, the roles are literally reversed. With each of the myths presented here, the gender of each character has been switched, making the reader pause and reflect not only on the original tales, but on how this bias affects our everyday lives. It is amazing how a different name and pronoun impacts the reader and changes perceptions.

So, here we meet Pandorus as he opens his casket ‘just to peep inside’ and releases all the ills of the world; it is Thesea who kills the Minoheifer, Queen Aegea whose death names the Aegean Sea; Arachnus who is transformed into a spider. The book starts with an authors’ note which explains the ‘story behind the story’ with both Karrie and Jonathan contributing. In this, they discuss their reasons for this work, the sources they drew on and explain any adaptations they had to make.

The book- a beautiful hardback with a red ribbon bookmark- is full of colour illustrations, bringing these new characters to life. This would make a welcome addition to school libraries and classrooms, perfect for generating discussions and challenging thinking about the role of different characters and relationships are altered in the different versions.

Gender Swapped Greek Myths

Karrie Fransman and Jonathan Plackett

Faber ISBN: 978-0571371327

Many thanks to Bethany at Faber for inviting me to take part on this tour.

Make sure you read the rest of the tour posts over the next few days.

Mia and the Lightccasters

Beware of the shadows, the Reaper King is coming…

Being an umbra trainer was Mia’s dream until an encounter with a wild creature on the Nightmare Plains leaves her preferring to stay within the safety of the walls of Nubis where she lives, her confidence in tatters. When a surprise attack on the city leads to the capture of her parents and the other umbra tamers, Mia, her little brother, Lucas and friend, TJ must make their way to the City of Light to find help.

I loved this story. There is an energy and directness to the story telling which is instantly engaging and the plot merges various genres in a perfect mixture. I know so many children who are going to absolutely love this!

Mia is a fascinating character. The bond between her family is beautifully portrayed and her relationship with little brother, Lucas, is full of love and tenderness- a real joy to see. Convinced she is not good enough or strong enough to achieve what is expected of her, Mia still faces every challenge thrown at her and comes back stronger and more determined than before. Readers will empathise with her feelings whilst admiring her kind and loyal nature as she refuses to give up on others.

There is much to love about Janelle McCurdy’s world building. Lunis, its cities, the Nightmare Plains, the umbra…the story is rich in description, allowing the reader to escape to each location as the action builds. The plot is well paced and builds to a satisfying conclusion which hints at more to come.

Full page illustrations are scattered throughout the story, adding to its appeal. Sure to be a huge hit with children in UKS2, ‘Mia and the Lightcasters’ is one to move to the top of the reading pile!

Mia and the Lightcasters

Janelle McCurdy, illustrated by Ana Latese

Faber ISBN: 978-0571368433

The Accidental Stowaway

Esme Leonard- known as Patch- never meant to stowaway on the steamship, RMS Glorious. However, chased by a constable for a crime she did not commit whilst in pursuit of a boy with a skate which is hers, she needs to find a hiding place quickly. When the ship sets sail whilst she is still on board, she realises she has become an accidental stowaway. Luckily, she is a resourceful and capable child, used to fending for herself, but a couple of new friendships certainly help her settle on board, hiding in plain sight. However, things quickly become complicated and a mystery needs solving before the Glorious arrives in New York…

Judith Eagle can always be relied on for an excellent read! Both ‘The Secret Starling’ and ‘The Pear Affair’ are stories which I regularly recommend - and ‘The Accidental Stowaway’ will be joining them!

Often cross and outspoken, Patch is a wonderful character whose complicated background makes her incredibly adaptable and independent. As the story progresses, she shows herself to be loyal and courageous and you find yourself rooting for her at every step of her adventure, desperate for her to have a ‘happy ending’. Lillian and Turo, friends she makes on board, are equally engaging, helping her to solve the mystery they uncover on board- and adding to it! Once exposed, the baddies are deliciously horrible, making the children’s triumph all the more pleasing.

Settings are always something Judith Eagle describes brilliantly and each location Patch finds herself in is vividly portrayed with an effortless skill which enables the reader to visualise each scene. This is one of the many reasons ‘The Accidental Stowaway’ would make an excellent class read, offering inspiration as well as a great story.

Out in August, this is one NOT to be missed!

The Accidental Stowaway Judith Eagle, illustrated by Kim Geyer

Faber ISBN: 978-0571363124

Published in August!

You can read my review of ‘The Pear Affair’ here.

The Big Book of Festivals

The Big Book of Festivals is a fabulous introduction to some of the world’s most incredible cultural and religious festivities. The book includes some of the world’s largest, best-known celebrations, but also sheds light on some smaller, regional festivals- each fascinating and special.

People have been celebrating special occasions for thousands of years and countless festivals are marked across the globe. Any teacher will tell you that festivals and celebrations are a great way for children to make connections, recognise similarities and accept differences as they learn about how people in other countries and regions as well as those of differing faiths celebrate special occasions. This book offers a wealth of material to be explored and enjoyed and deserves a place in every classroom!

The book is lavishly illustrated with a cast of children introduced at the beginning for the reader to look out for as they read. The section on Remarkable Regional Festivals introduces the reader to the wonders of La Merce Festival, where amongst other activities, people compete to create human castles- castells- or the floating lights of Yi Peng and Loi Krathong, two closely related yet different traditions in Thailand. Some might have heard of seasonal festivals like the beauty of Hanami, viewing the cherry blossom in Japan or Groundhog Day in North America, the Icelandic midwinter celebration of Thorrablot or Nowruz, an Iranian festival marking the first day of spring and the new year might not be so familiar.

Perfect for dipping in and out of or for more focused research, ‘The Big Book of Festivals’ makes a fascinating read.

The Big Book of Festivals Marita Bullock and Joan-Maree Hargreaves

illustrated by Liz Rowland

Faber ISBN: 978-0571370221