Blog Tour: Aliya Aboard the Time Train

Welcome to the third stop on the time travelling Silver Express on an exhilarating journey through Egyptian history and culture with Laila Rifaat, author of the Aliya series.

Letter 3: Read like a Ptolemaian (The Ptolemaic era, Ancient Alexandria)

Dear Geddo,

By now you might have received a chronogram with the news about Professor Fayruz. Poor old sphinx…It was so horrible seeing him lying there stiff and cold. We found him just as we were heading back to the train after our excursion to the Old Kingdom. Some travellers are saying that he was murdered! The whole matter is so disturbing, but please don’t worry about me. I’ll be fine and anyway, there’s no way of turning the train around now that we’re in the time tunnel.

In line with our present stop in the Ptolemaic era, the dining coach has been redecorated to fit the style, with the genie waiters, musicians, and coach attendants all wearing draped tunics with colourful sashes, leather sandals and headbands made of gold and leather. In an attempt to brighten the mood, the guests were given Ptolemaic headdresses to wear. Victoria got a ‘Crown of Isis,’ which had a sun-disk between a pair of cow-horns. I could tell she wasn’t sure whether to be proud or embarrassed to wear it. Aion and I got lotus-crowns which were really pretty. Soliman told us that the lotus flower which was sacred in ancient Egypt. Charlotte, our chaperone, got a headdress with cobras which I thought suited her well. She’s always hissing at us.

I hadn’t expected Ptolemaic fashion and food to be so like the one we had from Ancient Egypt. Soliman explained that this was because the Ptolemies, who came from Greece, took on a lot of the Egyptians’ way of life when they drove out the Persians and settled in Egypt. They seemed a bit divided about Egypt though, because while they liked to present themselves like Egyptian pharaohs, they refused to speak anything but Greek and only put their own people in positions of power. Soliman said they never really assimilated to Egyptian culture. Still, they liked to style themselves as Pharaohs.  Maybe they liked the outfits, or was it to win the Egyptians’ favour by adopting their culture? I’m not sure.

After dessert we headed for the outfitting coach to get dressed for our visit to the Ptolemaic era. I got to wear a purple-striped tunic, and a cloak with a hood. It was really comfortable, and quite stylish too. Arsione, who is from that time, helped dress mine and the other girls’ hair with gold bands and headdresses.

The first portal took us to a spot on a hill, overlooking the ancient town of Alexandria. It felt so strange standing there, looking out over the city I know so well from my own time. But this was sometime around 330 BCE! So, no traffic jams or hotels lining the coastline. It did look impressive though, with a great harbour, countless temples, and a massive lighthouse.

Soliman told us that the city was founded and named by Alexander the Great who drove the Persians out of Egypt in 332 BCE. Ptolomy, founder of the Ptolemaic dynasty, was one of his generals who took over when Alexander died. He’s went on to make Alexandria an important port and an intellectual hot spot. The Ptolomies founded the Library of Alexandria and built a famous lighthouse, which is one of the seven wonders of the ancient world and one of the highest buildings of the ancient world. Only the pyramids of Giza are higher.

Next, we headed to the library, to a complex known as the Mouseion which housed a research institute, an astronomical observatory, gardens, and even a zoo. While passing through we ran into scholars, scientists, and philosophers from all over the world that had come to Alexandria to study, experiment, and debate the hot topics of the day.

The Ptolomies who were the patrons of the library were really crazy about books, even more than you. They would go to great lengths to get hold of them, or the scrolls on which they were written, and would collect everything from cookbooks to maps to philosophical treaties. They would even send special agents to steal or barter for manuscripts. Once a Ptolemy ruler tricked some famous philosophers, saying he would ‘borrow’ their original texts to copy them for his library. He ended up sending them the copies and keeping the originals. I can’t imagine going that crazy over some old scrolls of philosophy to the point that you want to steal them!

The library was really cool though, I’ve got to admit. I visited last year during the assessments, remember? It would have been a fond memory, but now it’s tainted by the fact that the most evil magician in the travel world was there with me.

Anyway, before heading back to the train we got to see some of Alexandria’s wide, straight roads and massive grand temples, palaces, and monuments that mixed Greek and Egyptian styles. Soliman told us that the city often came alive with festivals, parades, and celebrations honouring the gods and goddesses of both cultures. So, the Ptolomies were party animals as well as intellectuals.

I got to go now. Charlotte’s making us take baths to wash off ‘dangerous ancient germs.’ I’ll write again as soon as I get a chance. Please don’t worry.

Your granddaughter,

Aliya

Useful links

• Ptolemaian fashion: https://rawi-publishing.com/articles/ptolemaic_fashion

• History of the Ptolemaic era: https://www.worldhistory.org/Ptolemaic_Dynasty/

• Library of Alexandria: https://www.worldhistory.org/Library_of_Alexandria/ https://www.britannica.com/topic/Library-of-Alexandria

About Laila Rifaat

Laila moved to Cairo, Egypt, in her twenties to explore her father’s native country. She fell in love with the country and has lived in Cairo for over 30 years now. It remains a main source of inspiration for her stories. She has an MA in English and Comparative Literature and has worked as an ESL and IGCSE teacher. Nowadays she’s a full-time writer and stay-at-home mum to her four kids. Find out more at www.lailarifaat.com

Aliya Aboard the Time Train

The spectacular sequel to Middle Eastern-inspired fantasy Aliya to the Infinite City. 

When sinister magic threatens Aliya’s world once more, she is sent away on a school trip for her own safety aboard the time-travelling Silver Express. But what is supposed to be an educational journey through Egyptian history becomes a deadly race to save it from evil time-twister and master of disguise, Dorian Darke. Find out more at

https://www.chickenhousebooks.com/schools/laila-rifaat/

My review will follow soon…

The Seamaiden’s Odyssey

When a strange creature is rescued from the sea and brought to the marine sanctuary where Sasha works, she finds herself fascinated by the beautiful sea-girl, who is kept for scientific research and exhibited to a curious public. As Sasha spends time with ‘Marissa’ as she names her, the sea-girl eventually offers to tell her story in exchange for a promise.

I loved this story so much that I almost don’t know where to begin! Any book by Berlie Doherty is a real treat and ‘The Seamaiden’s Odyssey’ combines her magical storytelling with stunning illustrations from Tamsin Rosewell.

It is a beautifully told tale of love, longing, pride and grief, which captures the imagination and plunges the reader into the world of watery folklore and legend. The story which ‘Marissa’ shares with Sasha follows the tale of Merryn, who defies her father in a bid to find her own way rather than follow the path he has set for her. To tell too much of her adventures here would spoil the plot for others, but there is much to enjoy, much to reflect on, echoing like the seamaiden’s song long after the story has ended. The writing is evocative of traditional tales, mixing the familiar with the surprising and new, offering a deeply satisfying and poignant story.

Set against stunning blue backgrounds, silhouette work is used in the illustrations. Reminiscent of the work of Jan Pieńkowski, which I love, these add much to the magical appeal of the story, allowing the reader to give the characters face and form from their own imagination. Each is a work of art to be lingered over and enjoyed.

It is such a beautiful book, one to be gifted and treasured.

The Seamaiden’s Odyssey

Berlie Doherty, illustrated by Tamsin Rosewell

Uclan     ISBN: 978-1916747197

Raz Beri

Billy Turpin has cerebral palsy and is finding life at secondary school challenging. Dealing with bullies, thoughtless teachers and an over-helpful helper, he just wishes everyone would stop treating him differently. Mia, also a wheelchair user, has recently started his school and constantly challenges him to stand up for himself. When it is announced that Mia’s uncle is a famous footballer and is going to visit the school, Billy is thrilled and hopes that this might be his chance to prove he is just like everyone else. However, when the footballers act disgracefully, Billy realises he needs to take matters into his own hands.

‘Raz Beri’ is not a comfortable read, but it is completely absorbing and packs a very powerful punch. Told from Billy’s perspective, the story exposes the thoughtlessness, casual cruelty and hideous bullying which make up Billy’s daily experiences, creating real empathy. There is nothing self-pitying about his narrative, even in the face of some incredibly cruel name calling which he calmly explains whilst making it clear how hurtful this is. His relationship with Mia adds a new perspective as she is fiercely independent. Whereas Billy is happy to let Mrs Welbeck, the helper who has transitioned with him from primary school, continue to help him with things he is now able to do for himself because he doesn’t want to hurt her feelings, Mia insists that he should be more independent and challenge people when they patronise or hurt him. She is an amazing character!

The book also challenges the education system in its meaningful provision for children with additional needs where purposeful planning in lessons like PE would have positive outcomes rather than just occupying students during a lesson. Mr Marsh very much represents the stereotypical games teacher whose lessons are torture for anyone not a keen athlete and who I had very much hoped we had consigned to the last century. There is much food for thought for teachers here too.

In places, ‘Raz Beri’ is a painful, challenging read, yet it is ultimately up-lifting, powerful and poignant. A must read for everyone.

 Raz Beri

Matt Stephens

Firefly     ISBN: 978-1915444615

Published 29th August 2024

Let Sleeping Gods Lie

‘Let Sleeping Gods Lie’ is the second story about Trixie dos Santos. When her grandma's magical cauldron goes missing, Trixie is thrust into the underworld and has to call on her old - but very hard to control- friends for help!

Like the first book, this is an excellent adventure, full of humour and heart, offering a fascinating introduction to myths from cultures across the world. These stories are perfect for broadening children’s knowledge of the amazing characters from mythology beyond those so often met in school and I am delighted that today, author Thiago de Moraes, joins me on the Bookshelf to share his thoughts about the myths all around us.

Myths All Around Us

There’s no magic in our world, right?

Proper magic. Card tricks and disappearing tigers with mirrors don’t count. By proper magic I mean chimaeras breathing fire, people being turned into pigs, talking foxes, that kind of thing. And that just doesn’t exist in real life.

Well, I think that’s wrong or, at least, not exactly right. That’s why I wrote Old Gods, New Tricks and its sequel Let Sleeping Gods Lie. In both books, a young girl called Trixie dos Santos goes on adventures with a band of unruly trickster gods: Exú, Loki, Monkey King and many others. She lives in a world just like ours, but she encounters magic and legend everywhere she goes.

Growing up, I was obsessed with myths and legends from all over the world. I read book after book on the subject from my local library, and believed that the gods and creatures I was learning about were all around us. I’m much older now, and sadly I haven’t met a selkie or a griffin yet (I’d probably not be around to write this if that last one had happened) but I still see myth and magic everywhere I go.

Over the past twenty years or so, I’ve been lucky enough to be able to travel to ancient, sacred places: Chichén Itza, the Great Pyramid, Stonehenge, Delos and many others, all heavy with the presence of thousands of years of belief and ritual. These are extraordinary places, but it’s in the small things, those closer to home, that I feel the grip of legend is closer to us.

Magic is there. In all the little beliefs and superstitions some of us still hold: knocking on wood, placing horseshoes over the door, and saucers of cream in the kitchen. The memories of old gods who haven’t left us: green men and oak leaves on churches; our days named after the Sun, Moon, Woden and Saturn.

All those tiny moments, images and actions are echoes of beliefs that have been part of humanity’s lives for thousands of years. We’re in an age of technology and knowledge, and that’s all for the better, but there’s still a little bit of space in all of us for the unknown, the magical, the absurd.

That’s the world I wanted to create in Let Sleeping Gods Lie. A world where all the magic (and a lot of the mayhem) left the places where it had been sleeping and spilled into our daily lives.

What would the school run be like with gnomes and sphinxes about? And travelling by plane in a sky full of dragons and harpies? What about coming across trolls under bridges and kumiho in the woods?  Quite scary, is probably the answer, but also full of fun and adventure.

I hope readers join me on a journey through this world of myth and magic, and that it helps them find a little bit of both in theirs.

Many thanks to Thiago for joining me today and to Fraser from David Fickling for arranging it.

‘Let Sleeping Gods Lie’ is a brilliant read with additional information about some of the gods and goddesses met in the story at the end- the perfect starting point for further investigation!

Let Sleeping Gods Lie

Thiago de Moraes

David Fickling ISBN: 978-1788453202

You can read my review of ‘Old Gods New Tricks’ here.

Anne of Green Gables

When Matthew and Marilla Cuthbert plan to adopt a boy to help them out on their farm, they are shocked to discover they have been sent a little re-headed girl instead. Not entirely sure what to do with her, they soon warm to Anne (with an ‘e’) Shirley, whose constant chatter, vivid imagination and quick temper make life constantly entertaining.

Anne Shirley is a heroine like no other and her escapades and misadventures have been entertaining readers for over a hundred years. Like many others, I have loved the ‘Anne of Green Gables’ books since first reading them as a child and it is a delight to see this gorgeous new edition which will enchant a new generation by introducing them to her stories.

Katherine Woodfine has done a brilliant job of capturing the essence of Anne’s character. The extravagance of her speech, her joy in life and her tendency to get into scrapes are all here, but the language has been simplified and modernised, clarifying the story for modern readers. Anne’s insistence that she and Diana are ‘bosom’ friends (something which confused me no end as a child!), for example, is not mentioned, nor are there the constant references to religion which permeate the original.

The illustrations are delightful, capturing scene after scene from the story, full of energy, colour and detail. The size of the book makes it perfect both for sharing and for exploring each picture at leisure. Peeling back the dust jacket offers yet more delight as the hardback cover is beautiful, bordered with ‘cross stitch’ designs matching those of the jacket and presenting illustrations from within the book in gold on the pink background.

Absolutely charming, both in illustrations and re-telling, this edition of ‘Anne of Green Gables’ captures the heart and joy of the original, making it a satisfying read in itself as well as a stepping stone to the original books.

Anne of Green Gables

L M Montgomery, retold by Katherine Woodfine, illustrated by Isabelle Follath

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1839943317

Coming on the 1st September 2024

How to Survive a Horror Movie

Having enrolled at a girls’ boarding school on a remote island in an attempt to escape her past, Charley is determined to keep a low profile. She and her room mate, Olive, share a passion for horror films and so know all the rules of how to survive in these situations. Or they think they do… When someone starts killing her classmates, Charley finds herself at the heart of her own horror movie where she not only keeps finding dead bodies, but is also haunted by the ghosts of those who have been murdered. Charley not only needs to follow all the rules learned from watching films, but to listen to the dead if she is to catch a killer.

This is absolutely NOT the sort of book I would normally pick up! I hate horror films, run a mile at ghost trains and avoid scary situations at all costs…however, I am really pleased I read this as despite the title and some grisly murders, it was an excellent read!

A fast paced, easy read, ‘How to Survive a Horror Movie’ brilliantly plays on all the tropes of the genre as Charley hurtles from death to death, her worst fears being realised as the ‘suicides’ as her school seems determined to call them prove to be increasingly vicious murders. The story includes some gory descriptions, but the there is a real tongue-in-cheek sense of humour running through everything which somehow means even a wimp like me managed to read everything.

Behind all the blood and suspense, there is a strong storyline which makes sense of the events which take place- but I am not going to offer any spoilers! Although I worked out who was behind things, I was only partially correct and the actual conclusion was far more satisfying than the one I had envisioned. The characters are very well formed, particularly Charley and Megan, one of the ghosts of those who have been murdered and it is easy to get swept up in the action.

I absolutely loved this one despite all expectations to the contrary! Can’t wait for book 2!

How to Survive a Horror Movie

Scarlett Dunmore

Little Tiger ISBN: 978- 1788957120

Published September 5th 2024

Blog Tour: Welsh Giants, Ghosts and Goblins

I am delighted to be taking part in the Blog Tour for the very wonderful ‘Welsh Giants, Ghosts and Goblins’ by the equally wonderful Claire Fayers! As a great lover of myths, legends, fables and folklore, I collect these stories wherever I go and am always thrilled when a new collection appears.

Before you have even opened it to discover the delights within, it has to be said that ‘Welsh Giants, Ghosts and Goblins’ is a beautifully produced book. The green hardback perfectly complements the gold lettering and design of the cover by Becka Moor, making this a book to be gifted, treasured, loved and passed on. And (as one of those weird booklovers who can always be found sniffing books!) it smells great too!

In this collection, Claire has taken seventeen traditional Welsh tales and has used her own special magic to re-imagine them for a new generation. In doing so, she has created a treasure trove of tales, offering something new whilst acknowledging the old, allowing readers to investigate the stories which inspired her should they wish to do so.

Each story starts with an author’s note which sets the scene and sometimes offers guidance on pronunciation- essential support for anyone sharing these at a story time. I particularly enjoyed ‘The Green Lady of Caerphilly Castle’ which, inspired by the story, I am planning to visit very soon! But then, I am planning to spend quite a lot of time exploring Wales due to this book!

In some stories, such as the Green Lady, Claire has stayed fairly true to the original; others, she has cleverly altered to offer a new or different take on the tale. In ‘Sir John and the Dragon’, the addition of Mags, a lively, intelligent orphan, which allows a far more satisfactory conclusion to the story of Denbigh’s dragon.

I could easily write about each of the stories and how much I enjoyed them, but that would make this piece far too long. Suffice it to say that for those who love folklore, this is an essential collection. For those who don’t, this is the collection you need to change that!

Welsh Giants, Ghosts and Goblins

Claire Fayers, illustrated by Becka Moor

Firefly Press ISBN: 1915444707

You can find out more about Claire and her books on her website: https://clairefayers.com/

Many thanks to the lovely people at Firefly Press for inviting me to take part on this Blog Tour!

The Secret of Golden Island

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

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

Taken from the blurb.

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

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

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

Can’t recommend this one highly enough!

The Secret of Golden Island

Natasha Farrant

Faber and Faber ISBN: 978-0571382507

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

Ghost Tide

When his mum packs him off to East Anglia to stay with family he hardly knows, Charlie is annoyed that he won’t be able to spend the holidays playing football and hanging out with his friends. Uncle Patrick’s house is dilapidated and his daughter, Ariel, is all but hostile. Finding an ancient box buried on a beach, Charlie unwittingly releases a violent presence which causes mayhem. Working with his cousin, Charlie must somehow set things right once more.

‘Ghost Tide’ is a compelling, chilling read. Atmospheric writing keeps the reader on the edge of their seat as the tension mounts. Not a great lover of being scared, I was really surprised by how much I enjoyed this one!

Charlie is a thoroughly likeable character. Thrust into a situation he would rather have avoided, he tries to make the best of things, empathising with his uncle as Patrick tries to make a new life with his daughter after the death of his wife. Intelligent and curious, he is sensitive to the ghostly whispering voices in his uncle’s house which he can hear, something which he has in common with his cousin and leads to a new understanding between them. Ariel is also well developed and believable and the two make a determined, courageous team as together they face the dangers and challenges which opening the box has triggered.

Rich in descriptive details, the story flows well, building towards a very satisfying conclusion. I loved the references to, and quotes from, The Tempest and the map at the beginning of the book- who doesn’t love a map?! Spine-tinglingly spooky, ‘Ghost Tide’ offers much to enjoy!

Ghost Tide

Jim Cockin

Eye Books ISBN: 978-1785633775

Witchspark

Eglantine lives in a magical house called Huswyvern, one of just three sentient houses in the land. But she needs to find her Witchspark to maintain its magic and as her family and home are threatened by the machinations of her uncle and the evil Whistlewitch, Eglantine turns to Miss Hegotty’s Course for Aspiring and Ungovernable Witches for help, an illegal correspondence course.

Meanwhile, in Kensington Palace, Princess Victoria is desperately trying to hide her Witchspark as not only is magic forbidden within the palace walls, but royals are not allowed to be magical. Like Eglantine, she turns to Miss Hegotty for help…

Anyone who has read the ‘Starfell’ series knows that Dominique Valente has a real talent for creating engaging, endearing characters. No one who has read those stories will be able to forget the very loveable Willow Moss and in ‘Witchspark’, Dominique has worked her magic again with the very different, but equally loveable Eglantine Bury.

Eglantine knows she must bond with Huswyvern for it to survive. Furious at a change in the law which means that the house passes to the eldest child, not the eldest son, her Uncle Lichen will go to any lengths to take possession of the house. That she is a girl, that she is different (she had been born with one arm ending just past her elbow), that she has, as yet, no magic, all seem to him to be good reasons for her not to inherit the house. His prejudices underline the key messages about believing in yourself and standing up to intolerance which sing through this story.

Princess Victoria’s stifling experiences at the Palace echo those of the real Princess Victoria who later became Queen. The ‘Kensington System’ was a set of elaborate and very strict rules created by her mother and Sir Conroy to keep her under their control. Readers feel a great empathy for the princess as she not only struggles to maintain her identity under this control, but is also forced to try and hide her growing magic. Her friendship with stable-boy, Eoin Murphy, and the wonderfully named rat, Lord Byron, is all the more delightful for being absolutely the last thing they would have allowed!

There is so much to love about this story and it would make an excellent class story or guided reading text with plenty to discuss and enjoy. The magical world created here is beautifully constructed, so imaginative and appealing, that readers find themselves instantly captivated and immersed in Eglantine and Victoria’s story. Thank goodness this is the first in a series- but how am I going to wait for the next one?!

Witchspark

Dominique Valente, illustrated by Eleonora Asparuhova

Usborne ISBN: 978-1805314998

You can read my review of ‘Starfell: Willow Moss and the Magic Thief’ here.

Montgomery Bonbon: Mystery at the Manor

Bonnie Montgomery, and her alter-ego, Montgomery Bonbon, is back with a new case to solve. Having delivered a mysterious package to Adderstone Manor, she meets Fergus Croke, an ‘oddly charming’ villain, who introduces her to his gang of apprentice crooks, a wrought-iron cage full of monkeys and the contents of the package, the legendary Adderstone Diamond. But when Croke croaks it and the magnificent diamond goes missing, Bonbon is ready for action!

‘Mystery at the Manor’ is the third in this series of surreal mysteries, solved by the brilliantly bizarre Bonnie Montgomery whose fake moustache, beret and foreign accent disguise as the detective Montgomery Bonbon.

There is so much to enjoy in this story! The fact that Bonnie passes as the great detective by adding her flimsy disguise and that no one notices her jumbling of French and German phrases includes readers in the joke from the outset and willing her to succeed where the bumbling detectives are sure to fail. The text is full of wordplay and puns and the illustrations bring Bonnie’s antics to life brilliantly, adding much humour to the story. As Bonbon gets to work, there are plenty of clues and red herrings to keep the reader guessing and trying to solve the mystery.

Dana, Bonnie’s friend, and Grampa Banks are also on hand to support her as she detects. Brilliant detective she might be, but in this story, Bonnie shows that she can be a very thoughtless friend, leaving Dana upset and causing a rift between them. However, without her friend’s help, Bonnie would have made a huge mistake and she willingly admits how much she values Dana’s help.

Whimsical and whacky, ‘Mystery at the Manor’ would make a great read for class story time or any time!

Montgomery Bonbon: Mystery at the Manor

Alasdair Beckett-King, illustrated by Claire Powell

Walker ISBN: 978-1529518290

The Great Farm Rescue

Hannah and her family are facing tough times again as their landlord is threatening them with eviction and dad has had an accident. But Hannah is determined to save the farm once again by raising the money to buy it. Her family and friends rally round to support the endeavour, but how on earth will they raise over two million pounds?

This is the third story about Hannah and her wonderfully eccentric and loveable family. Every bit as enjoyable as the first two (‘The Secret Hen House Theatre’ and ‘The Farm Beneath the Water’), ‘The Great Farm Rescue’ pulls the books to a joyful conclusion, but could easily be read as a stand alone story.

When I was little, we used to stay on a farm in Devon where we helped to collect the eggs, feed the chicken and bring the cows in for milking. I am sure that my brothers and I were a far greater hindrance than a help, but we adored these holidays and still talk about them to this day. ‘The Great Farm Rescue’ captures all the joy we experienced on the farm, but Helen Peters cleverly weaves the problems faced by tenant farmers into the story, showing the reality of farming life and encouraging empathy and understanding in readers.

One of the greatest joys of this book is that it depicts a very real family with all their messy feelings and relationships, differences and quirks, but also the strong bond of love which means they are prepared to support each other and work together to save the home which they all love. Each family member is beautifully drawn, full of personality, and thoroughly endearing, and they all feel like old friends by the end of the book!

As well as trying to save the farm, Hannah has also landed her dream part as Hermia in ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ and she finds herself acting alongside Miranda, who she has previously had problems with. The enmity between the two girls is well handled, with tension building until things reach crisis point for Hannah. The final conclusion to this part of the story is both satisfying and realistic.

‘The Great Farm Rescue’ is a wonderfully warm and ‘wholesome’ story- I mean this in a really positive, way. It’s not sugary sweet, but good things do happen to good people and the combined power of community, friendship and a love of nature make great things happen. Brilliant story, beautifully written!

The Great Farm Rescue

Helen Peters

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805131175

You can read my review of ‘Anna at War’ here, ‘Evie’s Ghost’ here and ‘Friends and Traitors’ here.

Huxley and Flapjack: Trouble at Sea

One hot day, when Flapjack is keeping cool, reading his book in the bath, Huxley has one of his bright ideas and decides that they should go to the seaside. Once there, they meet Winston, Wizz to his friends, who invites them aboard his submarine to search for a shipwreck called the Isabella. Huxley is keen to look for treasure, leading the more cautious Flapjack into trouble.

Adorable as ever, best friends, Huxley and Flapjack continue to demonstrate that opposites really do attract! Huxley is as impulsive and ever, seizing every chance to seek adventure with little thought to the consequences whilst Flapjack remains quite timid, far more reflective and often giving into his friend’s whims. But whatever their differences, their friendship remains true, strong and affectionate!

The story moves at a pleasing pace, keeping readers entertained and engaged whilst the plentiful illustrations are a joy to ‘read’ alongside the text. Readers will delight in noticing all the little jokes in the pictures and there are plenty of places where the illustrations are perfect for encouraging conversations to develop empathy and recognise where Huxley is mis-reading his friend’s feelings about situations.

A brilliant bedtime or class story, ‘Trouble at Sea’ also lends itself perfectly to being used to inspire a book group session. Huxley, Flapjack and their new little crab friend would all make lovely ‘jumping jack’ figures or stick puppets which could then be used to retell - or reinvent - the story. The story might inspire a sandcastle building competition, going on a picnic or creating a plastic-bottle submarine…

Like ‘Race to the Rescue’, ‘Trouble at Sea’ is a wonderfully funny, enjoyable story, perfect for newly independent readers and thoroughly enjoyable for adults too! Can’t wait for the next one!

Huxley and Flapjack: Trouble at Sea

Alan MacDonald, illustrated by Francesca Gambatesa

Little Tiger ISBN: 9781788956208

Published 4th July 2024

You can read my review of ‘Huxley and Flapjack: Race to the Rescue’ here.

Fallout

Marcus is a Pritchard. His name marks him out as a troublemaker, a ‘bad lot’, not to be trusted. Labelled by teachers and the rest of the village alike, he feels trapped and that he may as well act as others expect him to. His life at home is also troubled. with Carl, the brother he is close to, is in Borstal, Marcus is subjected to constant bullying from his other brother, Gavin, who is his mother’s favourite and indifferent, judgemental treatment from his parents, who expect him to be part of the family ‘business’. Having fallen out with his best friend, Jezza, Marcus is very alone.

However, things start to change when he is treated with kindness by Mick, an elderly neighbour, who listens to Marcus and sees beyond the Pritchard name. Marcus also makes friends with Emma, part of the local peace protest group, and gradually finds himself responding positively to their belief in him.

When tragedy strikes at the local carnival, Marcus is once again the focus of suspicion and negative attention with only Emma believing in his innocence and working with him to clear his name.

Once again, Lesley Parr has delivered a story full of heart and hope. There is so much to recommend this wonderful story.

It’s a bit of a shock to see something set in the 80s considered ‘historical fiction’ as to me that period does not seem that long ago, but the story vividly captures the clothing, the music and the mood of the period. The village is a tight-knit Welsh community where everyone knows everyone else-and quickly judges them.

There are children like Marcus in every school and community. Haunted by their family reputation, they are marked out as troublemakers, often assumed to be responsible for issues before any investigation has taken place. It’s no wonder that they find themselves in a self-fulfilling prophecy. Through Marcus’s eyes and experiences, the reader develops great empathy for his situation, willing him to clear his name and escape the life he is being forced to endure. Lesley Parr’s characterisation is second to none as she captures Marcus’s sense of frustration and fatality perfectly. Other characters are equally well developed. Mick- considered an oddball by the community- is also an outsider, who is both patient and understanding, recognising Marcus’s need for an escape from his family and encouraging him to develop skills he didn’t know he had.

‘Fallout’ is a truly exceptional story, with its very title reflecting how cleverly its many elements are woven together. Poignant, thought-provoking, compassionate and compelling, there are not enough adjectives to convey just how much I enjoyed it! One to put at the top of your TBR pile!

Fallout

Lesley Parr

Bloomsbury ISBN: 978-1526648013

Published 18th July 2024

Watts and Whiskerton: Buried Bones and Troublesome Treasure

Watts comes from a family of great detectives, but he is not sure he has what it takes to be one. So when his parents head off on their next case, he goes to stay with an old client of theirs at Whiskerton Manor. Here, he meets Pearl, Count Whiskerton’s daughter, a very curious kitten who really wants to be a detective. When strange things start happening in the Manor grounds, Pearl persuades Watts to investigate…

Proving that opposites attract, Watts and Pearl make the purrr-fect team! This is a delightful story, full of lovely illustrations, gentle humour and a brilliant mystery to solve!

Watts is such a sweet character. Thoughtful and steady, but somewhat lacking in confidence, he believes that he will never be as good at solving mysteries as his parents. However, his new friendship with bubbly, talkative, impetuous Pearl helps him to realise that he is a skilful detective in his own right! So many of us can feel overshadowed by the achievements of others, but like Watts can find our own way in life and come to appreciate the skills we do have!

The story is really carefully plotted and Watts’ notes will help readers to follow each stage of the investigation as it unfolds. A perfect balance of text, illustrations, comic strip, labels and speech bubbles makes this an incredibly appealing book for younger readers, as engaging for those reluctant to read as much as those who devour books! There are many jokes to enjoy- for adults as well as for children- with plays on words like Dr Arty Fact and plenty of visual jokes in the pictures! I particularly like the fact that vocabulary like ‘archaeologist’ is also explained in the context of the story- and readers are given a little insight into how archaeologists work!

Both at home and at school, the book could be used as a starting point for many enjoyable activities. The little finger puppets (pictured above) help to make the story even more interactive as readers can act things out as it progresses or create their own little plays and mysteries and perhaps put on performances! Sections in the story where speech bubbles have been used are perfect for teachers to use to support their teaching of speech punctuation as well as developing speech clauses, drawing on the wonderfully detailed visual clues the pictures give to add the characters’ feelings/ actions. The book would also make the most wonderful prompt for a book group or library session, encouraging children to solve a mystery by following clues- or one which encourages children to create their own comic strips perhaps!

I love Meg McLaren’s picture books (The Station Mouse is my favourite!) and am delighted to discover that her talent for creating endearing characters through gorgeous illustrations and engaging storylines will support children in the next stage of reading. I can’t wait for the next case for Watts and Whiskerton!

Watts and Whiskerton: Buried Bones and Troublesome Treasure

Meg McLaren

Piccadilly ISBN: 978: 1800786592

The Secret Society of Very Important Post

Penny Black and her mother are leaving London and moving to Scotland. This will mean that they can spend more time together, but although Penny should feel happy, she is miserable about having to leave her friend, Wishyouwas- and she can’t bring herself to tell him. However, just as she is about to leave their flat, Wishyouwas himself arrives in need of her help as he has been summoned to Buckingham Palace for a meeting. They discover that a letter from the previous King to the new Queen, Elizabeth II, has been stolen and the Sorters are tasked with retrieving it and getting it to the new queen before her coronation. Will they be able to deliver on time?

Readers first met Wishyouwas in ‘The Tiny Guardian of Lost Letters’, an absolutely wonderful adventure, and it is a pure joy to read another story set in this fantastic world! There is something really charming and magical about all the references to the postal service and all the elements of its past glory, so unfamiliar in this world of email and texting.!

The warm friendship between Penny and Wishyouwas is as lovely as ever and the pair make an excellent team as they set about solving the mystery of the missing letter- the ‘Monarch’s Seal’- accompanied by some familiar faces and some new friends. The mystery is really well plotted, offering clues and red herrings to keep the reader guessing as events unfold. Placed at the time of Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation, the story may well ignite curiosity about this event as well as some of the landmarks mentioned in the story and perhaps seek them out, following in the footsteps of Penny and Wishyouwas.  I never knew of the existence of Duck Island Cottage and will be seeking it out on my next trip to London!

There are plenty of illustrations scattered throughout the story, adding to the charm of this engaging story which would be an excellent choice for class story time or for using as a guided reading text. I look forward to the next ‘Wishyouwas Mystery’!

 The Secret Society of Very Important Post

Alexandra Page, illustrated by Penny Neville-Lee

Bloomsbury     ISBN: 978-1526644336

You can read my review of ‘Wishyouwas: The Tiny Guardian of Lost Letters’ here.

The Beanstalk Murder

When a dead giant falls from the sky and crushes her village, Old Stump, trainee meadow-witch Anwen’s bad day suddenly becomes much worse. On examination, the body of the giant leads Anwen and her grandmother, Eira Sedge, to suspect he has been murdered. Anwen and a trainee sorceress, Cerys, take a message to the land above, via a beanstalk, where they find themselves tiny in a land of giants and determined to solve the crime!

‘The Beanstalk Murder’ is a fantastic read, combining a classic murder mystery with hints of a fairy tale favourite! Engaging characters and a twisty plot keep the reader guessing to the very end!

The relationship between Anwen and Cerys adds much to the story. Initially enemies, when the two girls find themselves thrown together in a land so completely alien to their own, they are forced into an uneasy truce. Cerys has been accepted at the Academy of High Magic whereas Anwen believes Cerys sabotaged her entrance exam. The two are at loggerheads with Cerys referring to Anwen, a Meadow Witch, as ‘ditch witch’ and Anwen causing a seagull to follow Cerys around and poo on her! As the girls spend time together, each learns more about the other, discovering the importance of looking beyond first impressions and working as a team. Anwen is impulsive and instinctive with a warm heart and insatiable curiosity and her skills as a Meadow Witch play a big part in solving the mystery, leading her to value what she has and what she is rather than envying Cerys.

The murder is so well constructed with clues and red-herrings skilfully threaded through the story, encouraging the reader to don their deerstalker alongside the girls to uncover those responsible. Their size in a giant world both helps and hinders their investigation, but nothing deters them in their quest. Although the giants of the Sky Kingdom and the humans below are alienated, the two sides develop a new understanding, seeing past their differences.

I really hope there will be more adventures set in this wonderful world!

The Beanstalk Murder

P G Bell

Usborne ISBN: 978-1805312536

Published 1st August 2024

You can read my review of ‘The Train to Impossible Places’ here, ‘The Great Brain Robbery’ here and ‘Delivery to the Lost City’ here.

Alice Éclair: A Dash of Daring

When an ingenious cipher machine, capable of converting messages into unreadable code in seconds, and its creator go missing, Alice Éclair finds herself once more in the thick of the action, this time at the Olympic training camp, where the daughter of the missing machine maker is getting ready to compete in the cycling events. Working undercover- and facing the challenges of creating healthy desserts- in the Olimpic kitchens, Alice is determined to solve the case.

This is the fourth and – I hate to say it- final book in the incredibly popular series about the clever, creative and kind-hearted, Alice Éclair, everyone’s favourite spy Every bit as delicious as its predecessors, ‘A Dash of Daring’ offers a very satisfying conclusion.

The story is packed with the usual clues and red herrings which make solving the case so enjoyable and there is plenty of code breaking to tickle the tastebuds. Developing relationships, coming to understand others and overcoming barriers are things which Alice is good at and once again, she makes new friends and meets up with some old ones as she rises to the challenges of the case and faces her nemesis.

Adele, the Olympic cyclist, has a twin, Hugo, a talented designer, who happens to be in a wheelchair. Having taken guidance from a fellow author, Sarah Todd Taylor offers a sensitive, accurate portrayal of his experiences, seamlessly adding this to the story, but greatly enriching the understanding and empathy of readers in the process.

An excellent conclusion to an excellent series!

Alice Éclair: A Dash of Daring

Sarah Todd Taylor, illustrated by Beatriz Castro

Nosy Crow    ISBN: ‎ 978-1839948879

Published 6th June

You can read my review of ‘A Spoonful of Spying’ here and ‘A Sprinkling of Danger’ here.

Ettie and the Midnight Pool

When Ettie meets Cora, she discovers she wants more than just the rural solitary life she has previously lived. And when Cora leads her to a hidden quarry pool- deep, beautiful and dangerously inviting- Ettie is ready to jump straight in. But the quarry itself has secrets…

(taken from book cover)

A book from Julia Green is always something special and ‘Ettie and the Midnight Pool’ is a lyrical, hauntingly beautiful story, one which leaves the reader reflecting on life’s stories and how the past mingles with the present.

No one could possibly read this without being struck by the rich, evocative writing which effortlessly summons the sights, scents and sounds of Ettie’s world. It is a love-letter to nature, reflected in the wisdom of Ettie’s Grandma, her knowledge of plants and flowers and the timeless patterns of nature. Mingled with this are references to ancient tales- the enduring nature of story and how we are made up of our own stories and those of others.

Against the traditions and certainties of this idyllic life in nature, Cora makes a stark contrast. She offers the excitement, the uncertainties, the adventure which Ettie craves, breaking the cocoon of safety and childhood her grandmother has woven around her. Ettie’s mother- a wild one- never settled to that life and in her new friendship with Cora, Ettie is starting to feel she might be more like her adventurous mother than her settled Grandmother as everyone previously thought. Ettie has to navigate her friendship, the secrets she uncovers and the truth about her family to truly find herself and realise who she is.

This would make the perfect read for those children who are thinkers, who want something different or special to read. Every class has them and it’s always a joy to have a gem like this to offer when they are ready for their next book! It is a wonderful, layered story, full of love, longing and life.

Ettie and the Midnight Pool

Julia Green

David Fickling Books ISBN: 978-1788452090

Published 6th June

North and the Only One

Since she woke up, Rose can’t remember anything- except her puppy, North. Mother is patient and helpful, carefully filling in the blanks, but Rose can’t quite shake off the feeling that something isn’t right. She isn’t allowed to draw back the curtains and can only venture into the garden early in the morning or at sunset, wearing a large-brimmed hat. She has strange dreams which Mother can’t -or won’t explain- and waking from one of these leads her to a discovery which frightens her into fleeing from the house. Once outside, however, it quickly becomes clear that she is different to those around her…

‘North and the Only One’ hits the high standard expected from a Vashti Hardy novel whilst managing to be different to her other books! It is a thoroughly engaging read, offering much to reflect upon and discuss.

As humans have died out ‘due to their own stupidity’ humanoid robots have replaced them, leaving Rose feeling alienated and completely alone, clinging to North, her companion and the only thing which she feels is familiar to her. When she escapes from her mother, Rose finds herself in the city where everything seems perfect- and yet its inhabitants are quick to judge, criticise difference and wish to be rid of anything which doesn’t fit their idea of ‘normal’. Her humanity makes her stand out, allowing readers to reflect on the importance of individuality!

The book focuses on Rose’s journey- literal and metaphorical- to find out who she really is, and we see the world through her eyes as she encounters things for the first time, reflecting on and sometimes questioning what she discovers and the book would make an excellent guided reading text, offering as it does so much to explore and discuss.

An excellent, imaginative adventure, ‘North and the Only One’ is a moving, wise tale with much to recommend it.

‘We’re all the same. We’re all made of stories.’

North and the Only One

Vashti Hardy

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702312274

You can read my review of ‘Serpent in the Sands’ here.