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.

Blog Tour, Neurodiversity, School Dogs, Empathy Sue Wilsher Blog Tour, Neurodiversity, School Dogs, Empathy Sue Wilsher

Blog Tour: Dexter! The Amazing School Dog

Today, I am delighted to be taking part in the Blog Tour for this very special book!

It’s Dexter’s first day as ‘School Dog’ and as soon as he is through the gate, he is busy supporting everyone who needs him. As the days go by, he helps Flynn find the courage to leave his Grandma and go into class, he sniffs out Blake’s lost lunch box and encourages George to read to him, naturally finding ways to support every child who needs him. At end end of the book, he is rewarded with a brand new, golden collar for being the best school dog ever!

Having worked with three school dogs, I know that they really can work magic with some children. Empathy is at the heart of this story, gently showing the reader how challenging some situations can be for some children, emphasising the uniqueness of each individual and the importance of gently validating their feelings and allowing time and space for them to flourish. It offers the perfect way to introduce children - and adults- to all kinds of feelings and responses, paving the way for really positive, inclusive discussions.

My favourite illustration in the book- although they are all lovely- is that of George and Dexter in the Book Nook. Dogs make the perfect audience for a story, gazing with devotion at the person who is reading and cuddling close or sitting by their side as needed. Children feel an incredible sense of achievement and well-being when allowed to do this and the experience should not be belittled as sadly it often is.

The illustrations are wonderful, capturing Dexter’s loveable, warm nature perfectly as he spreads happiness and confidence across every page. I hope there are more books about Dexter being planned as these stories will resonate with and reassure all who read them!

Dexter! The Amazing School Dog

Lucy Plunkett, illustrated by Sian Bowman

Owlet Press ISBN: 978-1913339500

Thank you to the lovely people at Owlet Press for inviting me to be part of this Blog Tour.

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Blog Tour: My Mummy is a Witch

This lovely book is a glorious celebration of all the special moments shared between a mother and her daughter. Told through the eyes of the little witch, the story shows just how special spending time together can be. The illustrations clearly show the close relationship they share as the little witchling gazes at her mother in adoration.

The endpapers are peppered with pumpkins and potions, bats and bottles, snails and flowers, creating a suitably spell-like feel to the story and children might enjoy spotting these objects as they read the story. Fascinating facts, such as that holly used to be known as ‘bats’ wings’ in the Middle Ages, are scattered between these pictures. Throughout the book, the illustrations are delightful as they capture the pair foraging in the woods, enjoying the fun of bath time and snuggling down for a bedtime story.

The gentle rhyming text captures all the things the little girl loves about her mummy and the things which they enjoy doing together, including cooking. A recipe for the dandelion ice-scream they make is included at the end of the book so that readers can try making their own.

Owlet Press are well-known for their original, diverse and beautiful books and this is no exception.

My Mummy is a Witch

Helena Garcia, illustrated by Jess Rose

Owlet Press ISBN: 978-1913339463

Thanks to Catherine Ward for inviting me to join the tour and to Owlet Press for a copy of the book.

‘My Mummy is a Witch’ is out on the 27th April.

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Blog Tour: Finding Floss

Today, I am delighted to be taking part in the Blog Tour for ‘Finding Floss, the Colour Changing Cockerpoo!’. The charming colourful illustrations are the perfect accompaniment to the gentle rhyming text, which explores what to do if you should get lost. Parents will find this invaluable for instigating conversations about this in a non-worrying way- there is an advice page at the end of the story- making it an important addition to bookshelves. Floss’s antics are sure to amuse and entertain whilst children enjoy spotting where she is camouflaged in the pictures. The story also has a loving family, which happens to be a blended family, at its heart- my favourite illustration in the whole book is the one shown on the Blog Tour banner above of them all together!

Author, Cara Matheson, joins me on the Bookshelf today to answer some questions…

Can you tell us a bit about yourself?

The first story I remember writing was in verse and about cats. It began: “Cats are lovely, cats are nice, cats like chasing rats and mice.” I think I was 7. Despite this, I am very much a Dog Person. I can mostly be found curled up reading with my cockapoo, Scout, or following her a round Greenwich Park, near where I live.

In a former life, I was a journalist on various women’s magazines. I took a break from that to raise my now school-age daughters, and – after being immersed in the world of picture books – decided that I’d like to have a go myself.

Scout is a therapy dog. Can you tell us about that?

Currently,  Scout and I visit a local primary school to read with the children, as part of the Pets As Therapy Read2Dogs scheme. We’re based in the library and small groups of children come to see us and read a book of their choice to Scout. Some children find this easier than reading to a person, as Scout is a non-judgemental (and very cuddly) listener. It’s especially helpful for children with certain educational needs, anxiety or shyness, not to mention those that are going through personal difficulties or speak English as a second language. Scout loves the attention (and extra treats!) she gets during these sessions and it’s wonderful for me to see how the children grow in confidence from her visits.

What made you want to write a children’s book?

Having children of my own opened up the world of picture books to me, starting with Julia Donaldson’s Superworm – the first book I read to my eldest daughter. I’ve enjoyed seeing how much my children benefitted from these stories, which have provided lots of bedtime laughs, opened up interesting conversations and sometimes even helped them process difficult emotions or experiences. I suppose I just wanted to create the sort of book that they would enjoy.

What inspired the story and the characters?

Well, Floss is inspired by my dog, Scout! The other characters are loosely based on my own family. I’m from a diverse background (Irish, English, Chinese and Iranian…and more) and have also grown up in a blended family after my parents split up. I wanted Finding Floss to reflect my ‘normal’ and show it in a positive way. Finally, I think a lot of parents can recall a scary time when their children were lost (it’s only happened briefly for me, but each time my heart pretty much stopped) and I wanted to help children and their grown-ups have that all-important discussion about what to do, in a gentle, non-threatening way.

How did you find the publishing process? How did it feel to hold your finished book in your hands?

In a nutshell: A whirlwind, a wonderfully creative group effort, and  a lesson in immense patience at times (publishing lead times are loooong) before being suddenly hurled full-speed towards publication day! When I finally received the finished book I was simply giddy with excitement and in a state of disbelief. I’d been writing for so long – over a decade now – I almost couldn’t believe it had finally happened for me.

What do you think of the illustrations?

Mirna did an incredible job, especially with making Floss such a cute and endearing dog. Floss’s family are also perfectly rendered and the little girl (her name is Annie, though this isn’t mentioned in the story) is the sort of child I love to see in picture books: quirky, unique - and a glasses wearer. I also love the colours Mirna used and all the sweet little details she included. I honestly can’t think of a better illustrator for the book. Oh, and the endpapers are just fabulous!

What do you hope readers will take from the book?

I hope young readers will feel more confident about coping, if ever they find themselves lost. Most importantly, though, I want them to enjoy the story and perhaps even feel inspired to write their own.

Are you working on anything now?

I have lots more picture books up my sleeve, at various stages of completion – including a second Floss book. Writing in verse is a joy, but I’d like to have some of my prose stories published too. These tend to be on the irreverent, slightly random side, like Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus, which I think children respond really well to.

Finding Floss: The Colour-changing Cockapoo!

Cara Matheson, illustrated by Mirna Imamovic

published by Owlet Press, £7.99 paperback, out now.

Find Cara on Instagram @cara_matheson_writer and Twitter @cara_writer

 Thank you so much to Cara for joining me today. Make sure you follow the tour to find out more about this lovely book. You can find out more about publishers, Owlet Press, here www.owletpress.com

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The Woodcutter and the Snow Prince

A lonely woodcutter named Kai lives deep in a forest where he spends his time carving statues for people to enjoy. One night, he remembers a tale his grandmother used to tell him about a cursed Snow Prince with a heart made of ice who would turn people to ice. However, when Kai is visited by the Prince, he finds the companionship he has been longing for. In the morning, Kai is devastated to find his new friend has disappeared and kai is alone once more. Determined to find his Prince, Kai sets off on a perilous journey to free the Snow Prince from his curse.

Loosely based on ‘The Snow Queen’, ‘The Woodcutter and the Snow Prince’ is a wonderfully heart-warming story. Christmas can be a very isolating time for many and Kai’s loneliness is tenderly captured, encouraging empathy through both the illustrations and the text. There is a sense that the Snow Prince is also alone, isolated by misunderstanding and fear, and the meeting of these kindred spirits offers both the companionship and happiness they have been seeking. Kai’s determination to find his Prince and break the curse shows the power of love and friendship, echoing Gerda’s quest to find her Kai in Andersen’s original tale or Anna’s journey to find her sister, Elsa, in ‘Frozen’. There is so much to discuss here about what it is to be human and the importance of meeting the basic human need for love, acceptance and understanding.

The illustrations are stunning. Icy whites and indigo blues capture the magical wintery landscape perfectly, contrasting with the cosy warmth of Kai’s home. The end papers are a thing of genius- showing how perspective and attitude can alter our emotional landscape and open us to very different possibilities. Each spread is a joy with many details to notice and linger over.

A Christmassy tale for every day of the year!

The Woodcutter and the Snow Prince

Ian Eagleton, illustrated by Davide Ortu

Owlet Press ISBN: 978-1913339494

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Meet Samuel Langley-Swain

Today, I am thrilled to be joined on the Bookshelf by Samuel Langley-Swain, author and founder of Owlet Press whose books are just delightful. Samuel’s new book, ‘Where Bjorn Belongs’ is a heart-warming, tender story- perfect for this time of year!

1.       You are the founder of ‘Owlet Press’, a very inclusive publisher. Why did you choose the name ‘Owlet’?

I was inspired by the symbolic ‘wise old owl’ which is often used in books and in publishing for that matter. I thought about how our books should give children different types of wisdom, helping them grow into ‘owls’ and so Owlet was born. Amazingly the name wasn’t already taken, so it was obviously meant to be!

2.       What three words would you choose to describe Owlet Press to someone who doesn’t know you?

Small – we’re one of the smallest presses in the market – a one-man business with a tiny team of fantastic freelance experts. I think often people don’t realise that. The performance of each book has a direct impact on my livelihood, which means any support means so much.

Honest – our books deal with some quite impactful themes, and we approach them with an authenticity that feels respectful to the children who might have those lived experiences. I’m also very open about the trials of being a micro-business within the publishing industry.

Brave – we publish books that other publishers may consider too risky, or niche. For us, we obviously need to survive, but the social need for the book often outweighs the commercial security of a concept. We also need courage to keep trading in changing and challenging markets.

3.       ‘Where Bjorn Belongs’ is a beautiful book about friendship and belonging. It starts when a little boy called Arthur loses his favourite toy, a polar bear called Barney. Did you have a toy which offered you comfort when you were young?

I did – I had a small white dog with black ears. It’s one of the only items I still have from my childhood, although it’s up in the attic somewhere and looks a bit sorry for itself after over 35 years!

4.       Your words are beautifully brought to life through Mirna Imamovic’s lovely work. Which of her illustrations in ‘Bjorn’ is your favourite?

Oh, yes! Her artwork is simply stunning and everything I wanted for this story. I absolutely adore the image of Arthur falling asleep in Björn’s arms, in the open door of the fridge, before his friend is whisked away on Christmas eve. 

5.       If you could only choose one book (JUST ONE!) to recommend to others, what would it be- and why?

Well, if it was one of mine, then it would be ‘The Blanket Bears’ which helps children and families understand what it means to be adopted, which would help them grow up to be kinder to those who have been on that journey. If it’s ANY book, it would have to be ‘The Comfort Book’ by Matt Haig – I’ve taken a lot from that personally.

6.       What can you tell me about the next book we can expect from you?

Well . . . it’s very different to Where Bjorn Belongs – it features a lot of dancing animals, a mixture of body types and abilities, and the theme of being treated like an outsider.

7.       And lastly - and most importantly according to my niece - what is your favourite cake?

The hardest question of all! As I’m Welsh, it has to be bara brith (or a simply spiced tea loaf) with a generous wave of butter.

Thank you so much to Samuel for answering my questions. Not sure about your taste in cake, but I’m really looking forward to your next book!

I would highly recommended everyone exploring the Owlet Press website www.owletpress.com to discover more about the amazing books they offer. The thought and care put in to each one is obvious, making them very special.

Where Björn Belongs by Samuel Langley-Swain, illustrated by Mirna Imamovic, is published by Owlet Press. Out now, £7.99 paperback.

You can read my review of ‘Where Bjorn Belongs’ here and my reviews of two other Owlet Press titles, ‘Me, in the Middle’ here and ‘The Whale Watchers’ here.

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Where Bjorn Belongs

When Arthur loses Barney, his toy polar bear, he writes to Father Christmas to ask for a new one. Waking to a snowy world on Christmas Day, Arthur is amazed to see a real polar bear in his garden. A special bond between the two quickly forms and Arthur does everything he can to keep Bjorn the polar bear happy and healthy. However as the bear grows, Arthur comes to realise that he must find a way to get Bjorn back to the place he belongs.

Perfect for sharing at home or at school, ‘Where Bjorn Belongs’ is a special story about true friendship and following your dreams. Arthur’s dislike of the noise and bustle of the Christmas season with the changes it brings to routines and ‘normality’ is something which is difficult for many children (and adults!) to cope with and the story enables conversations around this experience, encouraging understanding and empathy.

The story encourages discussion about the impact of global warming on polar bears- melting ice was a BIG problem for polar bears- as well as the importance of being a responsible pet owner. Arthur does everything he can to make sure that Bjorn is comfortable and well looked after- and when it matters most, makes the best decision for the well-being of his new-found friend. Bjorn needs to be where he belongs- not with Arthur, not in a zoo- but back in the wild with his own kind. Having promised to look after him, Arthur does, first by letting him go and then by becoming an Arctic explorer and learning how to help polar bears in their natural environment.

Another strength of this book is the illustrations. There are many which glow with the love between Arthur and his mother as well the deep bond between Arthur and Bjorn. There are picture showing the beauty of the natural world and those sharing the magic of Christmas. Even the end papers celebrate the amazing creatures of the Arctic!

One not to be missed this Christmas!

Where Bjorn Belongs

Samuel Langley-Swain, illustrated by Mirna Imamovic

Owlet Press ISBN: 978-1913339449

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The Whale Watchers

It’s the first day of the summer holidays, but Finn is far from excited. His marine biologist mother is dragging him and his little brother, Jesse, off to wet, cold Scotland, so she can study the whales which live there. Finn has become increasingly anxious about plastic pollution in the oceans and is struggling with a growing sense of futility of his mother’s work or any action to save the planet. However, a chance encounter with a girl and her dog leads him into an adventure which proves everyone can make a difference.

This is the first novel published by Owlet Press. I am a great fan of their picture books as they always offer something a little different so had high expectations of ‘The Whale Watchers’- and I was not disappointed.

The story is successful in many ways. Firstly, it is a real love letter to whales. Bursting with information about these incredible creatures, there is so much for the reader to learn without even realising they are doing so. I had no idea, for example, of the essential role whales play in combatting climate change or that they re-distribute nutrients across the oceans. Additional information at the end of the book adds to that covered in the story and introduces the reader to the Moray Firth Dolphin and Whale Conservation Centre. There is even some advice from real life whale watchers.

The book also addresses the very genuine concerns many children have about the future of the planet. Finn embodies these feelings as he battles with the negative thoughts he has about plastic pollution and extinction, but ultimately, the story is full of hope. He comes to realise that every small action any of us makes combines with those of others, making a huge difference. The information section also includes practical advice for things children can do - real steps for change- offering them a sense of how they can contribute and make a difference.

Most importantly, ‘The Whale Watchers’ is a very readable and accessible story which children will both relate to and enjoy. The relationship between Finn and his brother is lovely and Jesse’s enthusiasm for whales is contagious. With lovely black and white illustrations by Amberin Huq throughout, the story is broken into achievable chapters, using a clear, easy to read font.

‘The Whale Watchers’ would make an excellent class story or engaging independent read.

The Whale Watchers Dougie Poynter, illustrated by Amberin Huq

Owlet Press ISBN: 978-1913339548

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Me, in the Middle

As her class learn about family trees, Georgie is overwhelmed by feelings of uncertainty about where she belongs. However, once she starts working on the project with her parents, she soon realises that her family tree’s branches stretch far and wide and that her far-reaching roots make her proud. As the class compare their heritage, they soon realise that although all of their ‘trees’ look very different, they all have much in common.

Creating your family tree can be a very rewarding and fascinating thing to do, but it can also be an exercise fraught with difficulties and one which needs handling with the greatest sensitivity. Some children, like Georgie, might feel anxious because their family is not the same as that of their friends or classmates. This delightful, up-lifting story shows how, like real trees, families come in all shapes and sizes, but we are all rooted in the same rich earth.

I love the way the story links the idea of a family tree to the shape and size of real trees as different children compare how their families are formed with the trees in the park, acknowledging there are many ways to make a family unit and that each one is special. The story makes the point that you cannot define someone from looking at them- we are so much more than what can be seen at a first glance: wise words indeed!

‘Me, in the Middle’ would make an excellent addition to any book collection and is perfect for being at the heart of work about families. It would also be invaluable in PSHE sessions such as celebrating difference, relationships or being me in my world in both KS1 and KS2, with many ideas to explore. The addition of a blank tree with the title, ‘Make your own family tree’, might well inspire children to explore their own heritage, families and cultures. The illustrations throughout the book are delightful - a real celebration of classroom diversity and fun; however, they also are perfect for encouraging empathy as Georgie’s feelings are beautifully depicted.

Owlet Press are a fabulous independent publisher, offering titles which truly reflect and celebrate diversity and highlight more nuanced stories, making the reader pause and reflect deeply. ‘Me, in the Middle’ is another winner from their collection!

Me, in the Middle Annette Dimetriou, illustrated by Angela Mayers

Owlet Press ISBN: 978-1913339357

Out in March 2022

You can read my review of ‘Wild’ by Annette Demetriou and Dawn White in the ‘Reviews from Another Life’ section.

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