The Mermaid Call

Lake Splendour is a seaside town built around the myth of Lake Mermaid and the ‘Mermaid Girls’. Vivian lives with her grandmother at a tourist shop called Enchanted Tails, one of many businesses which benefit from the story like those of her friends, Erik and Eleni. When some children at her school start to protest again the annual Mermaid ceremony, saying its pageant bestowing the Mermaid Crown and Neptune’s Trident is sexist, Vivian becomes concerned about the impact this will have on the family business. At the same time, she meets a strange girl called Alice who is determined to find the mythical mermaid. Torn between her old friends and this new one, Vivian finds herself sucked into Alice’s plan, facing danger and uncovering the truth about the past.

This is an amazing story for so many reasons. First and foremost, it is superbly written with vivid settings and compelling characters which instantly engage the reader. The plot moves along at a pleasing place and there is plenty of tension before the very satisfying and rewarding conclusion.

Vivian is such a relatable character. She adores her beautiful mother who is fickle and constantly feels that she is not enough when her mother cancels her visits. Left self-conscious and vulnerable by these feelings of inadequacy and faced with the fact that one of her best friends, Eleni, seems to be siding with the protesters, Vivian is easy prey for the charming, but selfish Alice whose charms make her doubt herself and what she knows is right. The story offers so much to discuss with children struggling with their sense of self worth or peer pressure. Other children in the story also find the courage to stand up and be themselves, offering such a positive, hopeful conclusion as the story challenges stereotypes and offers plenty to think about.

The legend of the Mermaid Girls is cleverly worked through the story, but it is hard to say much about this without spoiling the read for others. This really is one you must read! 

The Mermaid Call Alex Cotter

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1839941900

Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.

Blog Tour: Once Upon a Fever

Disease begins with a feeling…

Sisters, Ani and Payton Darke, live with their father who is a Methic at the hospital of King Jude’s. Since ‘the Turn’ when people’s feelings first started making them ill, Methics have worked hard to help those made ill by emotions- including the girls’ mother whose grief has made her succumb to water fever. Both girls want to find a cure for her sickness and are frustrated by their father’s lack of progress, but that’s where the similarity between them ends. When Ani finds an imprisoned boy who turns everything he touches gold, she is determined to help him, leading the girls on an unexpected and dangerous path…

Instantly engaging, ‘Once Upon a Fever’ is a breath taking story of intrigue, deceit and magic.

Sisters, Ani and Payton are very different personalities. Ani has to take medicine to control the anger that bubbles inside her whilst Payton is studious and far better behaved than her impulsive sister. Since leaving the Isles and coming to Lundain to seek treatment for their mother, the girls have grown apart, but the distance between them is never more obvious than when Methic Guild Master, Jenipher Blake comes into their lives. Having long admired Blake, Payton is sure that if she can learn under Blake’s guidance, she will find the cure her mother needs which leaves to a rift, further separating the sisters and taking them from King Jude’s.

In the girls’ world, controlling- stifling- emotions is seen as essential to good health, but only once she experiences the healing power of nature and gives in to her emotions does Ani really feel alive and in control. The importance of this ‘holistic’ approach, of finding balance and experiencing emotions is key to our well being and the story explores this beautifully. The clinical ‘methic’ approach upheld by Blake is in stark contrast to the beliefs of the last Wilders, one of the guilds disbanded after the Turn, who Ani meets having escaped from the medical attentions of the Methic Guild Master. Living in Hyde Gardens, hidden from the rest of society, Henrich, Tally and a young boy called Estlin, keep the traditions and knowledge of their guild alive. Tally tells Ani:

But we mustn’t forget other important, healing things. Things like diving into cold water, sleeping beneath the stars, eating fruit that’s grown warm under the sun. Lying on the grass and thinking of nothing except the shapes of the clouds. that’s what the methics have forgotten…’

Thought provoking and powerful, ‘Once Upon a Fever’ is a must read story, combining a skilfully crafted world with a compelling plot. Make sure you add it to your summer reading list!

Once Upon a Fever Angharad Walker

Chicken House ISBN: 978-1912626984

Many thanks to Angharad and Chicken House for inviting me to be part of this tour. Make sure you look at the other posts about this wonderful book.

How to Hide an Alien

With Star Boy having chosen a new life on Earth, his friends, Wes and Kiki, now have the job of helping him learn how to pass for a human. With a long list of ‘don’t’s to remember, he is struggling to get to grips with confusing and unfamiliar Human conventions and quirks, but Star Boy soon finds himself facing a bigger problem - strange feelings in his body which lead to unexplained electrical surges which cause disturbances and make it hard for him to remain invisible. When he is accidentally seen in his true form by the whole school, hysterical reports of alien sightings abound as Wes and Kiki struggle to keep him hidden and safe.

I adored ‘How to Be a Human’ and so was very excited to find that Karen McCombie had written a second book about Star Boy and his friends.

Now safely living with Eddie, owner of the Electrical Emporium, Star Boy is settling in to life on Earth. With all of his usual enthusiasm and observational skills, he is trying really hard to blend in and learn human ways, following the rules Kiki has created for him. However, concepts like ‘white lies’ are really hard to get the hang of!

Whilst trying to help their unusual friend to blend in, Kiki and Wes are struggling with problems of their own. Both are having issues at home: Kiki feels increasingly resentful towards her father and his new girlfriend and Wes’s father is becoming more and more withdrawn and anxious- concerns readers might identify with. These problems are woven into the story, often with Star Boy’s naive, and slightly puzzled, take on things illuminating the situation.

Karen McCombie is an incredibly talented writer! There is such pleasure to be had from reading both of these books- such gentle wisdom and humour, coupled with engaging characters, make each a one-sitting read. I really hope there is at least one more adventure for Star Boy and his friends, but in the mean time, I will take the greatest pleasure in recommending these ones!

How to Hide an Alien Karen McCombie

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1788951104

You can read my review of ‘How to be a Human’ here.

Blog Tour: Orla and the Wild Hunt

Rather than go to France with her father, his fiancée and two sons, Orla decides go and stay with her Gran in Ireland. To her surprise, her bother, Apollo, elects to go with her. The two are still grieving the death of their mother and look forward to the comfort and familiarity of the tiny ramshackle cottage on the edge of the Tangled Woods. But Gran is not herself, seeming nervous and watchful, although she still makes her tiffin and shares the tales from Irish folklore. Then Gran vanishes one night and with the help of a local boy called Conor and a strange creature they found locked in Gran’s shed, they set off on a perilous and magical mission to find her and save her from the Wild Hunt.

‘The Mask of Aribella’ is a huge favourite of mine so I was very keen to read Anna’s new book. Rich in folklore, imagination and love, ‘Orla and the Wild Hunt’ is an incredible story- and one which I will return to again and again.

Orla is struggling to come to terms with the loss of her mother and resents the fact that everyone else seems to be able to move on with their lives, lashing out at her brother in particular. She denies herself the joy music and singing brings, having believed that maybe, if she had practised hard enough, her mother would have got better, and has withdrawn from her friends. When her Gran is taken, she has no choice but to take action and move forwards as she cannot bear the thought of losing someone else. Kind hearted, thoughtful and empathetic, Apollo copes with his sorrow in a different way. As they search for their grandmother, he helps Orla to find her voice once more and their sibling bond becomes stronger than ever and Orla finds the courage to confront her grief, just as she confronts the Wild Hunt.

The story is completely compelling, beautifully twisting Irish mythology with stories from other traditions. The children encounter merrow, fairies, water sprites as well as the pooka they found locked in Gran’s shed. My favourite by far, however, is the giant, Fionn, of the Giant’s Causeway fame, although Anna has adapted the tale. He adds plenty of gentle humour as does the pooka’s acerbic wit and rude comments! Their loyalty to the children and the (initially reluctant) support they offer them on their quest is heart warming.

There are so many reasons for reading this story, not least Anna’s fabulous writing style. Full of vivid descriptions, the plot moves at an excellent pace with plenty of tension, offering a mesmerising tale of love and loss. Anna set the bar high with ‘The Mask of Aribella’ and has succeeded in creating another story which is just as unique and engaging. I cannot wait to see what she writes next!

On a final note, the story has started something of a ‘tiffin war’ here! I was going to share my favourite tiffin recipe because ‘tiffin is the best’, but this has led to deep debates about the differences between tiffin, Rocky Road and a tray bake! Help to settle this would be much appreciated!

Orla and the Wild Hunt Anna Hoghton

Chicken House ISBN: 978-1912626113

You can read my review of ‘The Mask of Aribella’ here.

My Friend the Octopus

When her mother, a successful milliner, suddenly whisks Vinnie away from everything she knows in London to live in Brighton with her Aunt Bets, her world is turned upside down. The two have never been separated yet now her mother has travelled to Paris on business, leaving Vinnie to a very different life with far more freedom and many new experiences. Vinnie is particularly drawn to the aquarium where she is enchanted by the newest acquisition, a ‘rare gargantuan devil-fish’- a giant octopus. Through observation and patience, Vinnie gradually comes to know this creature, using her sketching skills to capture her unusual friend.

‘My Friend the Octopus’ is a fabulous, many layered story which is full of colour and historical detail. Set in Victorian times, the novel offers much to enjoy, both as a read aloud and as a key text to inspire work from a class, including the attitude of ‘collectors’ and animal well being, working conditions, the role of women and racism.

The aquarium shows the stark contrast between those who care for animals and are keen to learn about them and consider their well being and those who see them as possessions or as a way of making money. Along with Vinnie, Mr Lee, the aquarist in charge of the animals, and his nephew, Charlie, show patience and curiosity, a willingness to learn about the octopus whilst caring for it. For Captain Bickerstaff, the octopus is a ‘slippery beast’, a way to generate income for the aquarium. There is so much to discuss and explore here, considering how attitudes have (or have not) changed and no doubt inspiring a fascination for these amazing creatures to equal Vinnie’s.

Child labour during Victorian times is something children are regularly taught about, but which often focuses on chimney sweeps or factory workers. By introducing the girls caught in the fashion trade, Lindsay Galvin exposes the cruel conditions endured and the consequences of fulfilling the caprices for a certain style or trend. Parallels can be drawn with today’s ‘fast fashion’ and the exploitation of cheap labour to meet this demand.

The book is rich in historical details which make it a delight to read. The risqué nature of bathing and riding a bicycle show how women like Aunt Bets are enjoying new freedoms, but the story also exposes the frustrations of the rigid expectations for women at this time. Notes from the author at the end of the book allow the reader to learn more about some elements of the story and there is a recipe for ‘Petits Fours à thé’ which I have every intention of making when I have a moment!

At the heart of the story is Vinnie, who blossoms into believing in herself under the care and nurture of Aunt Bets who constantly encourages her to ‘get doing’- a positive message for all of us. Her friendships with Charlie and Temitayo are beautifully developed and each character has a fully developed personality and ‘story’ of their own. The ‘baddy’ is truly sinister- no one would want to meet him anywhere- making the twists of the plot full of tension.

I really enjoyed ‘Darwin’s Dragons’ (and ‘The Secret Deep’), but in ‘My Friend the Octopus’, Lindsay Galvin has written an absolute treasure! The cover is beautifully illustrated with fold out flaps to explore, making an enticing start to an excellent book.

My Friend the Octopus Lindsay Galvin

Chicken House ISBN: 978-1913696405

You can read my review of ‘Darwin’s Dragons’ here and ‘The Secret Deep’ here.

Autumn Moonbeam Dance Magic!

Autumn Moonbeam loves dance and gymnastics so when she discovers that Sparkledale Dance Academy has places on their competitive dance team, Black Cats, she is desperate to try out. But Autumn is worried that she won’t be good enough to make it in to the team and her anxiety is made worse by the fact that her neighbour, Severina Bloodworth, is also trying out for the team. With the support of family and friends, Autumn finds the confidence to attend the auditions, but will everything go according to plan on the day?

Full of magic, dance and friendship, this is a little book that really packs a punch! Autumn and her family- her twin, Zephyr, brothers Mordecai, Toadflax and baby, Knotweed, mum, Ghostly Gran and various pets- are a wonderful bunch and her slightly chaotic, very crowded home might not be the ideal place for her to practise her dance moves, but it is a loving and supportive place. Readers from big families will no doubt empathise with Autumn and her desire for some space of her own whilst recognising this sense of love and togetherness.

Another thing readers are sure to empathise with is Autumn’s feelings of self doubt and anxiety. However, her determination to try something new and not give up at the first hurdle shows how perseverance and determination- with a little support from friends and family- can pay off and have positive results. Autumn’s strength of character and good nature are also shown in how she deals with Severina.

The illustrations are delightful. The dance pictures capture the joy and excitement of dancing with magical touches and are sure to appeal to readers. You can even follow the step by step pictures to help you copy Autumn’s audition dance routine! There is so much to enjoy in this slender book which is sure to be a magical success! A second book in the series is coming out later this year!

Autumn Moonbeam Dance Magic!

Emma Finlayson-Palmer, illustrated by Heidi Cannon

UCLan Publishing ISBN: 978-1912979769

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

Keep Dancing, Lizzie Chu

Lizzie lives with her grandfather, Wai Gong, in Glasgow. Since the death of his wife, Wai Gong has been acting a little strangely and although she is only 12, Lizzie has been keeping things going at home, constantly worrying about her grandfather. When Lizzie finds out that her Grandma Kam has left her a birthday present of tickets to the tea dance at the Tower Ballroom in Blackpool, she sees this as a way of getting her beloved grandfather back to his normal self and so comes up with a madcap plan for the trip of a lifetime. What could possibly go wrong..?

This book is a joy to read from start to finish! In the story, Maisie Chan has created an amazing cast of characters, full of life and personality, with Lizzie at the heart. Thoughtful and caring, Lizzie is is determined to take care of her grandfather who has become the centre of her world since the death of her grandmother. Desperate to help him cope with his grief, she has taken on all the daily chores whilst trying to keep up with her school work. Their shared passion for ballroom dancing and watching ‘Strictly’ reflects the close bond often shared between grandparents and grandchildren, offering both humour and pathos to the story. Tyler and Chi, Lizzie’s friends, are instantly loveable; supportive and caring, they help Lizzie in her quest to get to Blackpool, but also gently try to help her recognise that she shouldn’t be trying to do everything herself. Friendship and loyalty are key to the story.

One of Maisie Chan’s many strengths as a writer is her ability to mingle many ‘themes’ without seeming to do so. She manages to make the reader empathise with not only a young girl reeling from grief, but also an elderly man; consider how quickly we can misjudge people on appearances; think about the importance of being yourself; include diverse family situations and raise the issue of the casual racism faced by Lizzie and her friends on a regular basis. There is so much to think about here- whilst enjoying a cracking story.

I really love the inclusion of traditional stories in the novel and the fact that Lizzie shares these with her friends as they have been shared with her, introducing many to a wealth of new stories and cultural richness.

There is so much to recommend ‘Keep Dancing, Lizzie Chu’- it is poignant, funny, warm-hearted and has the perfect ending! Definitely one for the library!

Keep Dancing, Lizzie Chu Maisie Chan

Piccadilly ISBN: 978-1800781610

You can read my review of ‘Danny Chung Does NOT Do Maths’ here.

A Flash of Fireflies

Hazel is starting a new life in England to live with the aunt who raised her father before her parents join her at the end of the summer. Grant- her great aunt- lives in a cottage worthy of a fairy tale with a magical garden. But Hazel struggles with change, missing her family and the life she has left behind. She is visited by three fireflies who set her on quests, leading her into a fantasy world as she battles her personal demons.

Aisha Bushby is well known for her magical writing and ‘A Flash of Fireflies’ is no exception. At the end of this story, she shares her own experiences of OCD, explaining how it makes her feel and how she has built ways of fighting it. In the story, Hazel’s OCD is represented by the fireflies who take her on repetitive quests, but ultimately, she learns that she is not alone with her anxieties and that there are people who can help her. The story is sure to offer comfort and support to those who need it, but also to encourage empathy and compassion in those who have little understanding of a condition which is so often misunderstood.

Hazel’s move from Kuwait to England without her parents triggers her anxiety and yet attending summer school and exploring the topic of fairy tales helps her to make new friendships and combat the ‘scary newness’ of the place, allowing her to call it home. The writing is beautiful, cleverly combining the real with the fantasy and would make an excellent guided reading text or class read, offering much to discuss and enjoy.

A Flash of Fireflies Aisha Bushby

Farshore ISBN: 978-0755500642

You can read my review of ‘Moonchild: Voyage of the Lost and Found’ here

I Got This

Erin is outgoing, chatty, has a beautiful singing voice and a MASSIVE Afro. She also has achondroplasia, a form of dwarfism. Both Erin and her little brother, Joe, who also has achondroplasia, are about to face the challenges of a new school- Erin to secondary whilst Joe is starting primary. Neither has the best start so to try and make Joe feel better, Erin rashly promises him that she will win a place as a member of Fusion Junior, a new group being created by Erin’s favourite band, Fusion. Encouraged and supported by her best friend, Aimee, Erin starts to create her videoed audition for the band. However, when Isla, known to Aimee and Erin from primary school and also set on auditioning for Fusion Junior, gets wind of these plans, she plays on Erin’s insecurities, making her worry that Aimee’s help will not be enough. Torn between the need to keep her promise to her brother and loyalty to her best friend, Erin faces some tough choices.

‘I Got This!’ is a brilliant read which seamlessly combines details of life with achondroplasia, based on the real-life experiences of Cara Mailey, with a compelling and satisfying story. Details of the daily challenges Erin faces are evident from the opening chapter when she gets locked in the toilets at the concert she is attending because, although she managed to lock the door using her shoe, she has no way of opening it again. By openly addressing things like the different ways people react when they see her and her family- the smilers, the not-so-secret glancers, the starers and the secret photographers- the reader gains a deeper understanding of how Erin feels, encouraging greater empathy. Having to take a taxi to school and having a one to one support are also explored. Although well-meaning, Erin’s new class helper, Barbara, doesn’t actually communicate with Erin, failing to consider her wishes or establish any ground rules for their relationship, highlighting potential problems.

However, family and friendship are very much at the heart of this story. Aimee is a fabulous character, genuinely believing in her friend and Erin really comes to appreciate her over the course of the novel, recognising her true worth. Erin is surrounded by the love and support of her family, a tight unit, who are keen to be positive and focus on the things which Erin and Joe can do, encouraging them to be themselves and to be the best they can be- a universal message we can all benefit from! There are touching family scenes, but also plenty of humour, making the book a joy to read.

I Got This Cara Mailey and Chrissie Sains

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702314988

The Light Hunters

Since a Monster killed his family, Lux Dowd lives with his grandfather in the town of Daven. Light Hunters used to battle these monsters, saving people until a terrible mistake turned them against Light and those who use it. However, Lux has a secret. He can wield Light and is being trained by his grandfather in secret. When his friend, Maya, is wounded in an attack, Lux uses the Light to heal her, exposing his secret and attracting the attention of a sinister stranger. Lux finds himself drawn into the world of the Light Hunters where he becomes a member of Squad Juno and soon finds himself facing not only Monsters, but also those who would use his powers for evil.

Action packed and full of energy, ‘The Light Hunters’ is an excellent book. For me, it was a one sitting read as I found myself completely absorbed into the story and invested in Lux, hoping things would work out well for him!

Dan Walker’s world building is excellent. From the outset, the reader is aware of the threat posed by monsters and the existence of the mysterious Light Hunters who used to protect his town, but have since been rejected by the townspeople, gathering all the necessary details effortlessly as the story develops. Vivid descriptions bring the setting to life as Lux travels from his home to Dawnstar, the Light Hunters’ HQ and the pacey plot keeps the reader fully engaged as Lux discovers more about his light-wielding powers and with his new found friends in Squad Juno, rises to the challenges Monster hunting brings.

Friendship and family loyalty are at the heart of the story. Lux’s affection for his grandfather is very touching, adding some emotional moments amongst the action. ‘The Light Hunters’ makes an excellent read for those who love fantasy and I’m already looking forward to the next in the series!

The Light Hunters Dan Walker

UCLan Publishing ISBN: 978-1912979103

The Lizzie and Belle Mysteries: Drama and Danger

Lizzie Sancho lives with her family at their Westminster grocery shop which doubles as a tea shop and what her father likes to call ‘literary salon’ in Georgian London, but she is definitely not your typical eighteenth-century girl. With no interest in the latest fashions or society gossip, Lizzie is very observant and intelligent. Her father has been given the role of Othello, making him the first Black man to play this role on the British stage. A trip to the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane for his opening night ends in disaster after an accident; however, it also leads to Lizzie meeting Dido Belle, an heiress being brought up by her aunt and uncle at Kenwood House, a magnificent residence on Hampstead Heath. The two girls are sure they saw something suspicious at the theatre and soon find themselves on the trail of a mystery…

There is so much to enjoy about this story. Vividly bringing Georgian London to life, it is a historical novel bursting with detail. Lizzie and Belle are based on the real people from Black British history, Elizabeth Sancho and Dido Elizabeth Belle. With so little recorded about the lives of the poor, particularly women and still less Black lives in Britain at this time, the story opens children’s eyes to the presence of the Black community in London in Georgian England. It does not shy away from serious topics such as Black people of being kidnapped and sold to slavers or to work in bondage in country houses in England ‘dressed up and collared, like pets’, the awful existence of those in enslavement in the Caribbean or the work of the abolitionists whilst offering a story of real friendship, courage- and some excellent detection!

From very different backgrounds, the girls make fascinating heroines. Lizzie is surrounded by her large, loving family whilst Belle confesses that she had never been introduced to another Black girl before Lizzie or rarely meets anyone of her own age. She knows she is fortunate to live in such luxury, but has a lonely existence. Together, the girls make the perfect team as they piece together the mystery of what happened at the theatre.

The story moves at a pleasing pace, with scenes of the theatre, the girls’ home lives and plenty of action as they investigate. The ending suggests the possibility of a new case for the girls to solve which I will be very keen to read. In the meantime, I will be reading more about Ignatius Sancho (Lizzie’s father), Dido Elizabeth Belle and other Black British figures from this period.

‘Drama and Danger’ is an excellent read, brilliantly illustrated by Simone Douglas throughout- a must have for all book corners and libraries!

The Lizzie and Belle Mysteries: Drama and Danger

J. T. Williams

Farshore ISBN: 978-0008485252

The Ship of Doom

When Luna is forced to attend a meeting in the Butterfly Room at the Greenwich Observatory, she expects an evening of boredom. But it turns out to be full of surprises. The Butterfly Club is a society with a secret- they travel in time to ‘borrow’ technology from the future. With two travelling companions, Konstantin and Aidan, Luna boards the time train for her first mission which takes them aboard an unsinkable ship- The Titanic.

‘The Ship of Doom’ mingles fantasy with history to create a pacy adventure, making the reader wonder about which event in time they might travel to and what they might find there! Most children have probably heard of the Titanic and know that the children are being sent into a dangerous situation, building tension and posing questions about the ‘butterfly effect’ of any actions they take whilst on board.

The missing key for the cupboard containing the binoculars and ignored warnings of iceberg sightings are factors which contributed to the Titanic’s fate and these events are woven into the story. Historic figures also appear, including Arthur John Priest, a stoker who survived a number of shipwrecks. He plays a significant role in this story, thwarting the children’s attempts to change events. Marconi also features in the story with his ‘marvellous invention’ saving hundreds of passengers. Note at the end of the book offer more information about significant events and characters, offering an excellent stating point for further investigation.

The children- Luna, Konstantin and Aiden- make an interesting mix with little in common, but ultimately drawn together by the situation in which they find themselves. Once on board, they allow the reader to see how social status was reflected on board ship and how the experience of each class differed.

‘The Ship of Doom’ would make a powerful text to use with children, offering plenty of scope for writing in role, research and asking ‘what if..?’ questions whilst enjoying a very engaging adventure. The Butterfly Club’s next adventure is called ‘The Mummy’s Curse’, promising another exciting historical adventure! Look forward to reading that one.

The Ship of Doom M. A. Bennett

Welbeck Flame ISBN: 978-1801300049

Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.

The Animal Lighthouse

Washed up in a barrel of rum on a tropical island when a baby, Jim has been brought up by his animal family ever since. He helps them to run the island’s special lighthouse which has the dual purpose of keeping ships from hitting the rocks and completely hiding the magical island from the wrong eyes. But trouble is on the horizon as someone has stolen the lighthouse bulb filaments, exposing the island. To make matters worse, a pirate ship is on the way…

Bursting with humour and heart, ‘The Animal Lighthouse’ is a swash-buckling adventure sure to capture the imagination of its readers. A wonderful menagerie of animals support Jim in his action-packed quest and the story is peppered with Ciara Flood’s brilliant illustrations.

Recently, I was delighted to be asked to organise some school visits for Anthony- and these were incredibly successful! Both schools he visited were effusive with their praise for Anthony and the pleasure he had given to their children. One teacher told me: Anthony was fantastic! He had the children captivated and engaged. There was a real buzz from staff and children about his visit. It was interactive and very funny! Another said that her son had enjoyed the talk so much that he has had his nose in the book all weekend.

Lots of happy children were enthused by the event and enjoyed having their copies of the book signed as these comments show!

Alicia: The author was really funny; he made funny voices for the characters.

William: He was really good-he was just the best! I read a whole chapter of his book last night.

Mia: I liked that he was funny. He read the story to us in different voices.

Jenny: He tried to make us all laugh and it actually did work!

High praise indeed!

Many thanks to Anthony for his wonderful visits, to Liz Scott for her support and to Alastair at Books on the Hill in Clevedon for book sales!

The Animal Lighthouse Anthony Burt

illustrated by Ciara Flood

Guppy Books ISBN: 978-1913101527

Magicborn

Since the day of the Almost Drowning, Tempest has lived with her two fathers, the kind men who saved her. She can remember nothing of her life before this time nor how she can understand her robin, Coriel, when he speaks to her, but is happy living at the Ferry Keeper’s Cottage with Prosper and Marino. When a sinister stranger arrives at the river crossing, he convinces her to ferry him across the river despite her misgivings and she finds herself caught up in his hunt for a Wild Boy. The stranger, Lord Hawthorn, is the Royal Sorcerer, who recognises Tempest as Magicborn and takes her along with the Wild Boy back to Kensington Palace where things are not as they seem.

Telling two intertwined stories, ‘Magicborn’ is an incredible adventure, full of magic and mystery, friendship and deception. Set in 1726, the story takes place in an alternate version of England and in Fairyland as events surrounding Tempest and Thomas, the Wild Boy, unfold.

Relationships are very much at the heart of this story. The three children, twins, Tempest and Thomas, born princess and prince of Fairyland, and Kwesi, unwilling apprentice to Lord Hawthorn, learn to trust and value one another in the face of great danger and deception. Kwesi’s story is deeply poignant and its telling adds another layer to the book, offering much to contemplate and discuss. Tempest’s foster-fathers offer a stark contrast to her birth mother, showing how complex families can be and how blood ties might not be the most important factor in these.

Completely absorbing and compelling, the story moves swiftly, capturing the reader’s imagination. ‘Magicborn’ would make an excellent read aloud for a class and being the first in a new series, offers the promise of more spell-binding stories to come!

Magicborn Peter Bunzl

Usborne ISBN: 978-1803707570

Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.

You can read my review of ‘Cogheart’ here.

The Heart Scarab

Brothers, Renni and Mahu, are complete opposites. Renni, the younger, is an apprentice painter, learning to decorate tombs in the Valley of the Kings whilst Mahu looks for opportunities to make money. When Mahu hatches a plot to rob the tomb of a famous general, Renni reluctantly agrees. He steals the heart scarab from the General’s sarcophagus, leading to the unleashing of dead spirits, magic and mayhem. Renni and Mahu must return the missing scarab before Anubis comes not only for the general’s soul, but theirs as well.

‘The Heart Scarab’ is a pacy adventure with lots of action. Saviour is well known for his excellent historical fiction, effortlessly lacing exciting stories with details from whichever period he is writing about and this, the first in the new ‘Nile Adventures’ series, is rich with information about the ancient Egyptians, their lives and time.

Set in the tenth year in the reign of Ramesses II, the story would make an excellent text for using to support work on the Ancient Egyptians in upper KS2, either as a class story or as a key text to inspire and develop work. The story lends itself to plenty of writing in role, research, non-fiction writing and poetry as well as being perfect for developing reading skills. The story benefits from a section of additional information at the end of the book, including instructions for playing Senet.

The story is atmospheric and includes some dramatic scenes with the angry ghost of the dead general and the curse he lays on the boys. Having stolen the heart scarab and set the train of events in motion, they must now take responsibility for their actions and make things right again. Jo Lindley’s black and white illustrations throughout the book add much to the text.

The children’s adventures are set to continue in The Crocodile Temple, the second book in this series!

The Heart Scarab Saviour Pirotta, illustrated by Jo Lindley

Maverick Publishing ISBN: 978-1848868144

Please Write Soon

When asked to present a project in school, Solly -Solomon- tells his classmates about his Polish cousin, Bernie. He shares a series of letters which he wrote to Bernie and those he received in return over the course of the war. Through these letters, Solly tells Bernie about his evacuation to the countryside and his experiences there whilst Bernie writes of being sent by his parents from his home in west Poland to the east of the country where they hope he will be safer. As events build, the cousins share their experiences, worries and hopes until Sonny is able to tell his class what happened to Bernie and his family.

Inspired by the true experiences of the cousin of Michael Rosen’s father who was in the Anders Army, ‘Please Write Soon’ is a poignant story which introduces its readers to many events of the Second World War. A photo of Michael Rechnic (the inspiration for Bernie’s story) is included at the beginning of the book, encouraging the reader to remember those who experienced great hardship, fought and sacrificed so much for us today and perhaps inspire those who read this story to find out more about these events - and perhaps explore how they affected members of their own family.

Reading the story helps the reader to understand something of the impact of the war on the lives of real people. For Londoners like Solly, this included evacuation, the fear of air raids, rationing and the destruction of bombing. Solly also writes of the Bethnal Green Tube Station tragedy which took the lives of so many who were trying to get to safety. Solly’s letters are also brimming with little details of his daily life- playing marbles, watching badgers as well as his fears and troubles. Bernie’s letters tell of being sent to a work camp in Russia before becoming a soldier and fighting in Persia and Italy. When his letters are less frequent, Solly worries about what might have happened to his cousin, but continues to send his letters.

There is so much to reflect on and absorb from this poignant story and it would make an excellent text to use in school. The letter format makes the boys’ experiences very vivid, encouraging empathy and understanding in the reader. Events from the war are clearly explained and are sure to encourage children to investigate further. Michael Foreman’s illustrations complement the text perfectly. Using only shades of grey with touches of red, he captures scenes from the boys’ letters beautifully.

The afterword also makes an important read, adding much to the story and exploring Remembrance and its significance today, a very fitting conclusion to the book.

An excellent addition to any library or book collection.

Please Write Soon: An Unforgettable Story of Two Cousins in World War II

Michael Rosen, illustrated by Michael Foreman

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702303180

Day of the Whale

Cam and his mother live in Cetacea, part of Australia which survived the floods, where people worship whales, particularly Big Blue, whose wishes are interpreted by Byron Vos, founder and leader of the area. Everyone is working together to repair the damage caused by their forefathers, but Cam is on a mission of his own. His father is missing and his last words to Cam were Follow Big Blue. Find the truth. With help from his new friends, Banjo and Petra, Cam is determined to discover what happened to his father, but in doing this, they uncover dangerous secrets which might just destroy the world as they know it.

This is one of the best books I have read in ages and I have attempted to write a review of it several times. I can’t do it justice, no matter how hard I try- so here’s my best go! Combining a powerful environmental message with a tale of intrigue and deception, ‘Day of the Whale’ is a compelling page-turner which enthralls the reader from beginning to end. However, it’s also a story which is very hard to review without spoiling for others!

Evocative descriptions bring Cam’s world vividly to life- the relentless heat, the arid landscape and beyond, the ocean ‘like a huge beast shifting in its sleep’ alongside the details of their daily lives as the community strives to make amends for the mistakes of Long Ago- the dirty past.

His mother, lost and depressed since the disappearance of Cam’s father, is desperate for him to ‘be a good Cetacea boy’ and not draw attention to himself, but new friends open Cam’s eyes to new possibilities and different versions of the truth. There is darkness and danger in this world with its struggles for power and control, greed and tyranny- and yet, the story ends with so much hope for the future- for the good in people working together for a common aim.

Petra and Banjo are wonderful characters. Like Cam, they don’t quite fit in Cetacean society. Banjo feels a deep connection to the land and his First Nation’s heritage whilst Petra believes somewhere is ‘only home if you’re free to leave it’. Both challenge Cam to question ‘the establishment’, opening his eyes to new possibilities whilst they try to make sense of the information and mis-information of their world.

I cannot stress how much I loved this book- nor how much I recommend everyone reads it. Nothing I can write will do it justice- just read it for yourself!

Day of the Whale Rachel Delahaye

Troika ISBN: 978-1912745197

You can read my review of ‘Mort the Meek and the Ravens’ Revenge’ here and ‘Mort the Meek and the Monstrous Quest’ here.

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.

Ready or Not

A couple of weeks ago, I had the great pleasure of hearing Tracy Darnton speak at the Pontypridd Children’s Book Festival. Hosted by Storyville Books (see Brilliant Bookshops post here), this was a fascinating session about an excellent book.

Millie loves the summer holidays when everyone gathers at Creek House in Cornwall and she gets to spend time with the other kids - Matt, Charlie, Jem and Kat, her best friend. However, this year will be very different as they are all struggling to come to terms with Kat having disappeared during a game of hide and seek the previous summer. Having persuaded the others to join her for one final trip, Millie is seeking closure on the anniversary of Kat’s disappearance- and this might be the last chance to discover what really happened.

Completely compelling, ‘Ready or Not’ is an addictive mystery which keeps the reader guessing to the very end. The story is told from Millie’s viewpoint, both from before and after Kat’s disappearance, allowing intriguing glimpses which piece together the bigger picture of the events surrounding the fateful game of hide and seek. Everyone has their secrets- even Millie. Through her letters to Kat, written on the advice of her counsellor, Millie’s complex relationship with her ‘best friend’ is exposed, revealing tensions and frustrations. Newspaper reports and transcripts of police interviews also allow different perspectives on Kat’s disappearance, scattering clues and potential red herrings which really keep the reader on tenterhooks to the very end.

And the ending is a masterpiece! Tracy cleverly manages a whole array of possibilities and potential suspects right to the final page…and even then, different readers come away with different interpretations of the concluding moments. Pure genius!

Ready or Not Tracy Darnton

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1788953313

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