The Notorious Virtues

Honora Holtzfall- known as Nora- has always been considered her place in the succession of the most powerful family in all of Walstad. However, when her mother, the current Holtzfall Heiress, is found dead, suddenly the chance to control the wealth and the magic of the country is open to Nora’s cousins as well. Pitted against each other in the Veritaz Trials, a magical competition which decides the true heir, Nora and her cousins are stunned to learn of another contender, Lottie, the illegitimate daughter of Nora’s aunt. When she most needs to be focused on the events which will decide her future, Nora’s attention is diverted as she suspects that her mother’s death was actually murder.

‘The Notorious Virtues’ is a fabulous read. Utterly compelling, it mingles fantasy and fairy tale against a background of social unrest and revolution. Intrigue, deception, betrayal and loss have contributed to the creation of a highly dysfunctional family, living a life of untold privilege, clearly showing that money does not buy or guarantee happiness.

Events are related through the eyes of four different characters, but the story really revolves around the lives of Nora, the heiress presumptive, and Lottie, the cousin who grew up in a harsh convent with no idea of her true identity. Characterisation is one of the huge strengths of this story as the author skilfully develops each, creating genuine, flawed, interesting individuals where she might have settled for less. Both of these girls learn a great deal about themselves, the world they live in, family and trust as the story builds to its compelling- but open for the next step- climax.

Woven into the fabric of the story is ‘The Tale of the Woodcutter’, a fairy tale which explains how the Holtzfall family gained their position and how the trials came to be. The family are not only powerful in terms of wealth, but also of magic, creating huge tension between the haves and have-nots of society and leading to unrest, headed by a faction known as the Grims. However, there are shades of grey throughout the story with good and evil on both sides and a sense that equality for all might not be the true endgame. The story offers plenty to think about as well as an entertaining and engaging read.

It is a long book, but it is very well written and words are not wasted, making it very easy to escape into and enjoy! I can’t wait to see what happens next!

The Notorious Virtues

Alwyn Hamilton

Faber ISBN: 978-0571342150

The Curse of the Silvan Oaks

An ancient feud between Queen Titania and King Oberon has turned into a cruel war between the people of Silvanland and Penumbra. When the young Silvan prince, Corylus Silvanhart, is captured, the situation seems desperate. In the mortal world, the kidnap is witnessed by Oli Gill, who unwittingly travels through a portal to the magical kingdom where her arrival will change everything.

Although not a very long book, ‘The Curse of the Silvan Oaks’ is a vividly described, action rich adventure, with engaging characters and suitably wicked villains.

Having recently lost her father and been moved from all she knows, Oli finds herself at Foxley Hall where her mother has been employed. She finds herself catapulted into another world where she has no idea how important she is or the role she will play in helping to end the war which is raging there. Determined to help, she is both loyal and kind, helping Cory- Prince Corylus- to see that he is brave in his own way. Cory is my favourite character, however! Constantly comparing himself to his brother, Zandor, who Cory believes has inherited all his parents’ daring and determination, Cory feels he is both a failure and an embarrassment to his family. Yet, through his adventure, he shows himself to be resourceful and courageous, every bit the ‘prince’ his brother is.

The book contains a wide range of characters, yet the author manages to breathe life into each, offering a wealth of possible future stories as it feels as if there is plenty more to come from this world. References to the story of Oberon and Titania may well pique the curiosity of the reader, leading them to discover more through folklore and Shakespeare’s ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’.

This one is well worth a read!

The Curse of the Silvan Oaks

Georgia Channon

Pushkin Children’s ISBN: 978-1782695011

Out on the 10th April

Aggie Morton Mystery Queen: The Body Under the Piano

Aggie Morton lives in Torquay with her mother and grandmother. Although bright and imaginative, she is very shy, but one day, she meets a twelve-year-old Belgian immigrant, Hector Perot, forming a new friendship. When she finds a body under the piano at the Mermaid Dance Room where she goes for lessons, Aggie and Hector set about trying to solve the mystery and save Aggie’s dance teacher, Miss Marianne from being convicted of the crime.

Inspired by the life of Agatha Christie, ‘The Body Under the Piano’ is an excellent murder mystery, full of engaging characters, suspects, clues and red-herrings. For me, it was a one-sitting read- and I shall be catching up on the rest of the series as soon as possible!

Set in Torquay where Agatha Christie grew up, both the setting of the story and the character of Aggie draw on the life of the Queen of Crime whilst Hector Perot bears more than a passing resemblance to Poirot. Even Grannie Jane, who often refers to people and places she has known, has a hint of Miss Marple about her! For young readers, the book makes an excellent introduction to the murder mystery novel - and paves the way to the novels of Christie in future years! The author’s note at the end of the book adds detail and interest.

The plot is well-paced and engaging, keeping the reader guessing and guessing again as Aggie and Hector investigate. There is plenty of fun along the way as the crack the case. Out in paperback in April, this is a very enjoyable read!

Aggie Morton Mystery Queen: The Body Under the Piano

Marthe Jocelyn, illustrated by Isabelle Follath

Andersen Press ISBN: 978-1839136078

Our Tree

Little Red the squirrel scampers up Tree, declaring that it is all for him; however, Tree gently corrects him, pointing out a teeny-tiny caterpillar eating a leaf. Unhappy about sharing with caterpillar, Little Red is even more annoyed when Tree offers their branches for Swift to rest on. As more and more creatures arrive, Tree welcomes them all as Little Red’s anger increases until he decides to go and find a tree all of his own. But he slips and falls from the tree- landing on Leopard, who announces that Tree, and all in it, belong to her. But Tree laughs and all the creatures roar until Leopard flees. A contrite Little Red asks if he can stay with everyone else, including a new friend!

‘Our Tree’ is a wonderful celebration of sharing, tolerance and community whilst honouring the incredible role trees play in nature.

As perfect for exploring with a class as for reading at home, there is so much to enjoy here. Children will love joining in with Tree saying, ‘Look behind you!’ as new creatures arrive every bit as much as adults will enjoy reading it aloud. A wonderful range of speech verbs - encouraged, rustled, trilled, barked, roared etc- is used, offering an excellent model for children writing their own stories or to support acting the story out, perhaps using puppets. There are plenty of opportunities for exploring character as well.

The story could also be used to support learning about the key role trees play in hosting a wonderfully diverse range of creatures, encouraging children to explore the trees in their locality. Throughout the book, the illustrations are an absolute delight with plenty to linger over, discuss and enjoy. Tree and Little Red are vividly brought to life with wonderfully expressive faces as Little Red learns the importance of sharing and the power of community action! What a fabulous book!

Our Tree

Jessica Meserve

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1838917173

Wolf in the City

Wolf lived on a plinth in a small, tired square at the edge of the city. Pooped on by pigeon and generally ignored by everyone else, she longs for something different, somewhere she might be appreciated, so one day, she takes the bus into the city to take her place among the more important statues which live there. However, things do not go according to plan and she discovers that the city statues are vain, unkind and selfish. Realising how much she misses her home, Wolf finds her way back to the old square where she discovers that everyone has missed her just as much as she missed them.

‘Wolf in the City’ is a gentle story about the importance of home, connecting with others and feeling valued. Dazzled by the thought of the fame and admiration received by the ‘celebrity’ statues in the heart of the city, Wolf is keen to take her place amongst them, but is rebuffed again and again as she tries to find a new home. The story would be perfect for sharing in class, offering an excellent starting point for discussions- or perhaps some role play to explore Wolf’s feelings as she is faced with such unkindness.

Wolf’s emotional and physical journey ends with the realisation that home - and happiness- is not about celebrity, wealth or appearance, but about a sense of belonging and being appreciated by others. The delight felt by her community when they realise that she is once more among them brings the whole square to life as everyone comes together to celebrate. Children might enjoy collecting expressions like ‘Home is where the heart is…’, ‘Home, Sweet Home’ or ‘Make yourself at home’ and discussing what they mean. The illustrations are warm and evocative of ancient cities, perhaps inspiring children to think about the many statues which adorn them and the purpose of these…perhaps encouraging them to reflect on why they have been chosen and who they might prefer to see statues of!

Perfect for sharing!

Wolf in the City

Rachel Tilda Wolf

Scallywag Press ISBN: 978-1915252838

I am Strong Just Being Me

One day, whilst they are in the garden, young Bean asks Nanna, ‘What is strong?’ and she offers a wealth of advice, exploring strength in all its guises.

‘I am Strong Just Being Me’ is a wonderfully uplifting, joyful picture book, perfect for encouraging discussions about the stereotypes surrounding what it is to be strong and how this can be seen. It is a real celebration of the many different ways of showing strength, and showing just how everyone can be strong in their own way.

There is no indication as to whether Bean is a girl or a boy, allowing readers to identify with the character and to quickly dispel ‘traditional’ gender roles relating to strength, focusing instead on speaking up when needed, asking for help, struggling and making mistakes, admitting being wrong, saying sorry, forgiving- an empowering range of qualities which are so important to strength of character rather than physical strength. Nanna puts emphasis on the importance of love and showing we care, those very things which some believe you have to keep hidden to be strong. It makes for exuberant reading- perfect for sharing!

Another strength of this lovely story is the warm, loving relationship between grandparent and grandchild. Perhaps it might seem old-fashioned to some, but I think this sharing of wisdom between generations is to be valued and cherished. The story shows a real exploration of ideas between the two- Nanna offers her thoughts and then asks Bean what their opinion is, showing respect for opinions in both directions, collaborative learning at its best!

The illustrations are just delightful and match the lyrical text perfectly. They capture the warmth of the relationship as well as the beauties of the natural world which frames their discussion as they enjoy the outdoors together. The end papers show a selection of plants and the properties which they are said to represent, perhaps also encouraging children (and adults!) to look for these on an outside adventure- a flower treasure hunt if you like! Perfect for home or school, ‘I am Strong Just Being Me’ is an essential addition to any bookshelf.

I am Strong Just Being Me

Laura Dockrill, illustrated by Kip Alizadeh

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1838917180

Published 3rd April

Westfallen

Although Henry, Frances and Lukas are no longer best friends, they meet up for the funeral of their pet gerbil. Whilst digging the grave, they make an amazing discovery- a radio which allows them to communicate with another group of three children who live in the very same place, only eighty years in the past.

Sharing information about their lives, Henry and his friends learn that the sweet shop which Alice, Lawrence and Artie go to in 1944 burns down so to prevent this accident, they get their new friends to take action to save it. However, they quickly learn that the slightest alteration can have far reaching consequences and as one change leads to another, they find they have changed history in the worst way possible.

I wasn’t sure that I would enjoy this one- but how wrong I was! ‘Westfallen’ is a compelling and addictive read which I could not put down. The story moves between events in the past and present, building tension and suspense as Henry, Frances and Lukas find themselves trapped in a real-life nightmare.

As the story opens, Henry, Lukas and Frances, childhood friends, have drifted apart with Henry feeling left behind by the others. Sporty, Lukas has moved on with the popular crowd and Frances has dyed her hair and found new friends. The excitement of their discovery and its subsequent events bring them back together again, rekindling the bond they had previously. As the children are plunged into the horror of a future where Nazi ideology is ruling America, Lukas, who is Jewish, finds himself suddenly doing menial labour tasks, rejected by those who in his other life were his friends and Henry, who is biracial, is labelled a ‘mischling’, assigned to ‘work learning’. The story captures a chilling sense of constant fear as those not considered Aryan suffer under the brutal regime.

The story also offers plenty to think about. It poses questions about what people become under certain conditions, how evil flourishes and how people can be destroyed. It is far from comfortable reading in places, challenging readers to think ‘what if...?’ and reflect on how every choice and decision has a consequence.

An excellent read!

Westfallen

Ann Brashares and Ben Brashares

Bloomsbury ISBN: 978-1526685490

Deep Dark

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

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

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

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

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

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

Deep Dark (A Cassia Thorne Mystery)

Zohra Nabi

Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1398532922

Michael Rosen’s Pocket Shakespeare

Sharing the ‘best bits of the bard’, ‘Michael Rosen’s Pocket Shakespeare’ offers a very accessible introduction to some of Shakespeare’s writing. Divided into chapters such as ‘Love and heartbreak’, ‘Scheming and plotting’ and ‘Thou art a boil and other insults’, the book is perfect for dipping in and out of as you discover some of Shakespeare’s finest work!

Each section begins with an introduction which sets the scene and offers additional information. These explain things such as iambic pentameter, soliloquy and pathetic fallacy, but also the world Shakespeare lived in and how he viewed it. These sections offer plenty of food for thought and would make an excellent starting point for teachers wishing to initiate conversations about Shakespeare’s work with a class.

Further notes accompany each extract, offering background information, but also challenging the reader to think, raising some of the questions which hover over Shakespeare’s work. Glossaries beneath each piece help to clarify unfamiliar vocabulary.

However, this is not just a book for those who are unfamiliar with Shakespeare’s writing. Chris Riddell’s illustrations add to the appeal of what is an excellent selection of work, including all those wonderful Shakespearean insults at the end! An index of first lines and another of plays are perfect for anyone wishing to locate a particular piece, but the real joy here is being able to explore and discover- or perhaps, rediscover- some of Shakespeare’s finest words.

Michael Rosen’s Pocket Shakespeare

illustrated by Chris Riddell

Walker ISBN: 978-1844287628

Blog Tour: The Greatest Stuff on Earth

Today it’s my turn on the Blog Tour for ‘The Greatest Stuff on Earth’, an amazing look at the science behind lots of stuff we take for granted!

‘The Greatest Stuff on Earth’ is packed full of fascinating…stuff! Offering a light-hearted look at everything from aeroplanes to x-rays, this brightly coloured book is perfect for dipping in and out of.

Divided into ‘Stuff: The Basics’, ‘Nature Stuff’ and ‘Stuff Humans Make and Use’, there is a huge amount of information contained in these pages, accompanied by plenty of photographs, illustrations and diagrams. The author has a chatty, quirky style which is sure to engage young readers whilst offering clear and simple explanations about some quite complex topics.

In addition to a contents, an index and a glossary, there is also a section about the research for the book and selected sources used. The author explains some of the pitfalls of using websites for research, how he selects which to use and how he cross-references to his findings to ensure he is sharing reliable information. In addition to all the fascinating facts in the main text of the book, this section would make an excellent starting point for discussions with children about checking sources and verifying information.

A really enjoyable read!

The Greatest Stuff On Earth

Steve Tomecek, illustrated by John Devolle

What on Earth! ISBN: 978-1804661413

Many thanks to Laura for inviting me to take part in this Blog Tour. Make sure you have a look at the other stops!

Wild Magic: Legend of the Black Lion

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

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

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

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

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

Wild Magic: Legend of the Black Lion

Abiola Bello, illustrated by Emma McCann

Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1398520486

Call the Puffins: Tiny and the Cave Ghost

Muffin, Tiny and the rest of the trainee rescue puffins on the Island of Egg are all taking part in a special festival called Puffin Power. Tiny’s team has gained a new member, a little yellow chick called Flotsam, who has appeared and is determined to join in the fun. However, when Flotsam goes missing, all the young puffins rush to help- even though it means going into the dark caves where, legend has it, the Wandering Puffin lies in wait for visitors…

‘Tiny and the Cave Ghost’ is the fourth book in this delightful series about the Puffin Rescue Team trainees on the Island of Egg. Gorgeous illustrations combined with enjoyable adventures and firm friendships makes these stories ideal for younger readers- although I know several older children who absolutely love them!

Full of positive messages about friendship and teamwork, this adventure takes the young puffins on a rescue mission as they face their fears and work together to find little Flotsam who has wandered off and got into trouble. Tiny shows real leadership skills, combining an excellent idea with things learned on training to come up with a rescue successful rescue plan. The story involves just the right amount of peril and tension, making the story engaging, but not too worrying! Ella Okstad’s wonderful black and white illustrations capture the personality of each puffin perfectly.

Information about puffins is included at the end of the book, adding to the enjoyment of the story. In this book, readers learn that puffins’ beaks do glow- something which comes in useful whilst the team are in the caves!

Perfect for animal/ bird lovers or anyone who enjoys a good adventure, these wonderfully engaging little books are a real treat!

Call the Puffins! Tiny and the Cave Ghost

Cath Howe, illustrated by Ella Okstad

Welbeck ISBN: 978-1804536407

Published on the 13th March 2025

You can read my review of ‘Tiny’s Brave Rescue’ here and my blog tour post for ‘Call the Puffins’ here

The Endless Sea

When a family are forced to leave their home behind, they set off on a perilous journey to a find a new life.

Based on the author’s own experiences, ‘The Endless Sea’ begins with a family, living ‘a tiger’s whisker’ away from the jungle. Here, after a long war, their family are suffering in the aftermath, punished for being on the losing side. No countries are mentioned in the text, but the author’s note identifies this as Vietnam. Offering a poignant account of the terrifying journey faced by refugees, desperate for sanctuary and a safe life, this is a very powerful, moving picture book, one which is much better suited to sharing with older, rather than younger, children.

Peppered with figurative language, the text follows the family’s traumatic journey across the sea, sharing the horrors of this experience through the eyes of a small child. One of ‘The Lucky Ones’ who survived, she is still haunted by nightmares of her experiences. Yet, ultimately, the story shines a beacon of hope. The family are shown settled in a new home, ‘a cat’s whisker’ from her new school.

Matching the powerful text are the incredible illustrations which are sure to inspire discussions and raise questions. The opening spread shows a beautiful, ‘wide screen’ scene, with an ‘ordinary’ family, happily going about their everyday lives. However, the next picture zooms in, allowing the reader to notice different things. Furtive behaviours and worried expressions tell a very different story, creating a sense of tension. As the family flees, the images become darker as the little family board an overcrowded wooden boat and head out to sea and face the perils of the sinking boat. The nightmare scenes are particularly emotive. Swirling blank figures - those who weren’t so lucky- circle the girl’s bed in inky blackness. She falls ‘into the endless sea’ and unlike the others, lands on the safety of her bed. Each picture in this stunning book is worthy of comment…

An essential addition to books which share the experiences of refugees and develop empathy and understanding for their plight, ‘The Endless Sea’ allows readers to share the positive outcome for this family whilst remembering those who did not survive.

The Endless Sea

Chi Thai, illustrated by Linh Dao

Walker Studio ISBN: 978-1529516487

Pocket Book of Pocket Poems

Having received one of A F Harrold’s postcard poems, I know that children love his short poems! Indeed, despite the fact that we enjoyed plenty of poetry in class, many were fascinated by the idea that something so short was a poem as well as being charmed by the novelty of getting something hand written in the post. This led to us putting up a class post box, writing some tiny poems and sending them to each other. It also led to some really great stamp designing, but that’s another story!

In this book, A F Harrold shares a whole selection of short poems- the longest being only 60 words. The further in to the book you go, the shorter the poems get with a helpful number in the top corner of each page telling you how many words to expect! The collection is perfect for dipping in and out of- but one poem here is sure to lead to another!

Both alphabetical and thematic lists are included should anyone be interested in trying to local a specific poem or poems on a subject. There are poems about ghosts, peanuts, sneezes and cannibalism, ballet, curtains, zeppelins and flamingos…and, of course, postal workers! Many are light-hearted, some are reflective, some play with words whilst others are based on familiar rhymes. There is something here for everyone to enjoy!

Children love the fact that short poems are quick to learn, quite quick to create and easy to share. The fact that this little book is pocket-sized and perfect for carrying around is another benefit to this quirky collection of poems.

A F Harrold’s Pocket Book of Pocket Poems

Illustrated by Jack Viant

Bloomsbury ISBN: 978-1801994972

You can read my review of ‘The Worlds We Leave Behind’ here.

I Hate Everything!

When a ghost decides that they hate everything, it is challenged by another ghost to think about what it is really saying. Having agreed that it doesn’t hate its friend, sweets and dressing up, it then has to admit that it has actually forgotten what it is that it hates and decides that it loves everything…well, nearly everything!

Sophy Henn has done it once again with another fabulous book which shows just how well she understands children! ‘I Hate Everything!’ is a complete joy, capturing the big emotions and big reactions which toddlers (and some older children!) experience and just don’t know how to handle.

The gentle humour of the story allows readers to laugh with the big ghost as the little ghost challenges its statement that it hates everything. Families sharing this are sure to create lists of all the things which they enjoy and love to prove that although they might feel like they ‘hate everything’, nothing could be further from the truth. As usual with Sophy’s stories, there is so much to discuss in such a seemingly simple story, including the twist at the end of the tale!

So much emotion and personality is conveyed through Sophy’s skilful illustrations. How simple lines can create eyes and eyebrows which are so emotionally charged is incredible- but she does it so brilliantly, making the story accessible to all including those who experience difficulties in expressing their feelings or interpreting those of others. Little children can easily ‘read’ the pictures, if not the words, and perhaps enjoy creating their own stories about the two ghosts and drawing their own illustrations taking inspiration from Sophy’s.

Simply lovely- Sophy is a genius!

I Hate Everything!

Sophy Henn

Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1398526792

Watch Your Back

Starting the new school year has been a challenge for Kara. Her best friend, Eden, has a new boyfriend and has completely cut her off, leaving her friendless. When the year ‘freak’, Romilly, comes to her aid, Kara finds herself drawn into a friendship which she is unsure about and when unsettling things start to happen, Kara can’t help but suspect Romilly is behind them…

I love a book by Sue Wallman and I think this might be the best yet! ‘Watch Your Back’ is both thought-provoking and compelling, an absolute one-sitting read…and it took me almost to the conclusion to work out what was going on!

The story is cleverly plotted with plenty of clues, red herrings and twists, making it a very satisfying mystery. A sense of uneasy tension mounts as Kara starts to doubt all those around her, losing trust in them and feeling betrayed when her suspicions are not taken seriously. As she finds the tables turned so that she appears to be the aggressor rather than the victim, Kara’s sense of panic is all too real as she struggles to prove her innocence.

Kara is a really likeable, flawed, genuine character, with a loving family, living a messy, ‘real’ life which many readers will be able to relate to. When her close relationship with her one, best friend suddenly ends, she is completely derailed and confused. Her sense of bewilderment and hurt at this sudden rejection and at Eden’s apparent enjoyment of being part of the ‘cool’ group is really well captured as Kara circles through feelings of anger, confusion, loss and self-doubt.

Romilly is also really well captured. Ostracised by her peers, she is desperate for friendship and finds the muddy waters of how she is expected to behave difficult to navigate. The casual, thoughtless unkindness she faces is a harsh reminder that our school system is not kind to everyone.

Manipulation, control, deceit and true friendship are all explored in this engrossing story. One not to be missed!

Watch Your Back

Sue Wallman

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702332920

Published 13th March 2025

Small World

Celebrating the tiniest creatures on the planet, ‘Small World’ is a fascinating and absorbing read. Divided into six sections, the book looks at tiny birds, fish, amphibians, invertebrates, mammals and reptiles as well as offering a chapter on the ‘very smallest animals’.

Two beautifully illustrated pages are devoted to each creature highlighted with an additional page in each section which allows readers to see each drawn to their actual size. Along with its Latin name, the habitat, diet and appearance are described along with the benefits and challenges it faces as a result of its size.

Some of the animals presented in this book are sure to be familiar- the bee hummingbird, the Ocellaris clownfish or the Monarch butterfly, for example; however, there are plenty of creatures which even the most ardent animal lover may not be familiar with. The rusty-spotted cat, which looks a little like a tabby, is the smallest species of cat on Earth. Kitti’s hog-nosed bat- craseonycteris thonglongyai- also known as the bumblebee bat, is only 3cm long. The Barbados threadsnake, which had been incorrectly identified for years and was only scientifically described by Western scientists in 2008, is only 10cm long.

There is so much to enjoy and learn about the wonderful mixture of appealing, slightly alarming, dangerous and curious creatures found in these pages. As well as being a book to fascinate animal lovers of all ages, there is plenty here which would support- and enrich- elements of the primary curriculum, including adaptation and habitats. A glossary and index are included to support readers’ understanding and its larger format makes it perfect for sharing.

Small World: Meet 30 of the Earth’s Tiniest Creatures

Nick Crumpton, illustrated by Rosie Dore

Wide Eyed ISBN: 978-0711288560

Published 20th March 2025

A Voice in the Storm

Although Rat is miserable, she is reluctant to talk when her friend, Jackdaw, offers to listen. Instead, she rushes out into the storm, running away from both friends and those who might harm her. At last, she crashes into something solid - Bear. Compassionate and thoughtful, Bear encourages Rat to talk and be ‘a voice in the storm’, growling and roaring into the weather above them. Rat confesses how she has been feeling lately and Bear wisely reassures her, saying it takes a lot of courage to ask for help, but even more to let others help. Bear takes Rat home where, at last, Rat feels able to talk to Jackdaw.

Perfect for sharing, ‘A Voice in the Storm’ is a powerful story which sensitively explores how overwhelming feelings can be and the importance of accepting support from others. As Bear says, ‘Those who care will always want to listen.’

Shades of lavender, green and blue are used throughout the book. Grey is introduced in the early pages, echoing Rat’s darker feelings as she struggles to escape her inner storm by racing off into the stormy weather. As she shares her feeling with Bear, pinks and lilacs appear reflecting a release of tension as well as the fresh, clear colours after a heavy storm. This use of colour is one of the many interesting elements of this book, sure to provoke discussion and reflection, proving once more that picture books are not just for the very young!

Initially, Rat runs in an attempt to escape her feelings, a recognisable reaction, opening the way for plenty of discussion. The story also encourages empathy- Jackdaw tries to encourage Rat to talk and may well feel rejected and upset by her reaction. With older children, using role play activities and other drama techniques to explore the situation allows them to see the situation from both sides, valuing and recognising the feelings of each.

At one point, when faced with Snake, Rat almost gives in and steps into Snake’s open jaws before fleeing. This and the text What did Rat almost do, and why did she do it?’ suggest that, at this point of the story, Rat was having suicidal thoughts. Of course, this could be framed as making poor decisions when feeling this vulnerable and confused, but adults need to be aware of this and handle discussions at this point with care- and perhaps some expert advice.

Gorgeous illustrations, deeply poignant.

A Voice in the Storm

Karl James Mountford

Walker ISBN: 978-1529502589

The Appletree Animal Agency

Wishing on a shooting star for the puppy she desperately wants, Mattie knows it won’t happen as her Dad just doesn’t believe she is responsible enough yet to properly look after one. However, when she and her friend, Zoe, find a tiny, scruffy puppy in need of help, she rises to the challenge and meeting the new vet, Dr Polly and her son, Casper, all three children become her apprentice vets. Together, they care for all manner of pets, but soon realise that these creatures need to find homes of their own. That’s when Mattie has one of her madcap Mattie schemes…

‘The Apprentice Animal Agency’ is the first book in a new series which is sure to be a huge hit with young animal lovers. It offers a wonderful blend of gentle adventure, humour, friendship and mishaps, making it perfect for those who are after a well-written, engaging tale which is not packed with peril or fart jokes!

Mattie, Zoe and Casper are three really nice kids who are not fixed to their phones, but are keen to be hands on and active by helping look after animals. Zoe is highly organised, Casper ‘knows everything’ about animals and Mattie has a way with them, making the perfect team. However, not everything goes smoothly, showing each child’s flaws as well as their strengths. Each problem is overcome and the friends emerge stronger than before, offering reassurance and showing the importance of seeing things through and solving problems.

There is a real focus on care for animals which shines through this story. Mattie is desperate for a puppy, but Dad is keen to make sure she is responsible enough to look after one. On finding the puppy, who Mattie calls Luna, the children show great patience and understanding, waiting for it to be ready to come to them rather than rushing it. Each of the pets being rehomed is carefully matched to their new owner, considering the needs and well-being of both. It is not often that the thought needed when considering adopting a pet is shown in children’s stories so this is wonderful to see!

I look forward to seeing the second book in the series, ‘Collie Chaos’!

The Appletree Animal Agency

Katya Balen, illustrated by Gill Smith

Walker Books ISBN: 978-1529519181

Wink, Murder

Mary is reluctantly leaving Bletchley Park, following orders which take her to Bedford and top-secret lessons in Japanese. The only girl in the group, she finds herself befriended by her American study partner, Spencer. Suddenly summoned back to Bletchley, Mary finds herself heading off on assignment to London where she is to pose as a waitress and listen in on the conversations of prisoners dining at the Ritz Hotel. To her surprise, Spencer has also been posted on this assignment and the two work together on the case. But odd things constantly remind Mary that she should ‘Trust no one’, making her question everyone…

This is the third ‘Bletchley Park Mystery’ which features friends, Robyn, Ned and Mary and their experiences whilst based at Bletchley Park during WWII. They are cracking stories, full of excitement and adventure and historical detail. This book focuses on Mary, a mixed-race girl from Liverpool and is just as excellent as the first two.

There are so many elements to this book, all skilfully combined to create a really fascinating story. Not only does it offer a look at the world of espionage, its technology and agents, during the second world war, but it is very rich in background information about life at this time. Mary is caught on a bus during a bomb raid and she helps out with the WVS (The Women's Voluntary Service), allowing the reader to learn more about these things. The book also does not shy away from the racism and sexism she experiences, nor from the way immigrants were treated.

‘Wink, Murder’ would make an excellent class text, either for a thoroughly enjoyable class read or an equally enjoyable focus book to use to support learning about WWII. Additional notes at the end of the book support understanding of some of the elements in the story with plenty of links to enable those interested to explore further. Readers are sure to be inspired to visit Bletchley Park which is truly fascinating. I really hope there are more ‘Bletchley Park Mystery’ books still to come as each one is even better than the last!

Wink, Murder: A Bletchley Park Mystery

Rhian Tracey

Piccadilly Press ISBN: 978-1800789593

You can read about my visit to Bletchley Park here.