Reviews
There are so many incredible books available at the moment that it is impossible to read them all, no matter how hard I try! Here are my thoughts about some of the books I have read and how I think they could be used in school as well as Q and A sessions with authors and illustrators.
Bird Boy
Sent to live with his uncle in the Lake District, Will is faced with a life far removed from the one he is used to. When he makes friends with Omar, a refugee from Afghanistan, he finds the confidence to explore and the two boys discover an osprey nest. As they watch the birds, naming them, Will feels a deep connection with the smallest chick, Whitetip, so when, on a stormy night, Whitetip is knocked out of the nest, Will is determined to save her.
Catherine Bruton is well known for her empathetic, sensitive books and in ‘Bird Boy’, she has excelled herself. This is a story about migration- for humans and birds- about starting again, about healing, about hope. Deeply poignant in places, the story is written with great honesty and tenderness.
In Will, Catherine has done an amazing job of portraying a traumatised child, offering the reader glimpses of the life he has had with his mother and the strategies he has adopted to help himself cope. Struggling to come to terms with his recent bereavement, he is taken from all he knows to live with an uncle he barely knew existed whilst a new life with grandparents he has never met on the other side of the world. The beauty and solace of the mountains, the friendship he finds with Omar – and the local community- and the desire to save the helpless chick, all help Will to begin to heal and find a new sense of peace.
There is so much to recommend this book. I sobbed in places, gasped in others and ultimately, felt uplifted and hopeful for Will’s future- and that of Omar and the ospreys. It is an incredibly powerful, beautifully executed story- not to be missed.
Bird Boy
Catherine Bruton
Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1839946493
You can read my review of ‘No Ballet Shoes in Syria’ here and ‘Another Twist in the Tale’ here.
How Many Dinosaurs is Too Many?
When a child meets a lovely orange dinosaur, they are delighted. But one dinosaur is never enough and soon they have ten colourful, energetic dinosaur friends. However, the disruption and chaos caused by these messy, cheeky characters is soon just too much and so the child decides that they all have to go. Once alone, the child is left feeling sad…until they are reunited with their original friend. One dinosaur is perfect!
Full of energy and humour, the rhyming text is a delight to read aloud as the antics of the dinosaurs at first delights and then worries the little child. There is no indication as to whether this is a boy or a girl, making it easy for readers to identify with the character as the adventure develops. Children will enjoy counting along as each new dinosaur appears and the book is sure to inspire counting and matching games with toys or pictures of dinosaurs.
The illustrations are wonderful, offering plenty of opportunities for finding the different dinosaurs in each picture and noticing all their antics. Children are sure to notice the worried expression on the little orange dinosaur’s face as things get out of hand and the child realises that, perhaps, what they wished for is not as good as they thought it would be! In the end, the two friends are reunited, realising that two makes perfect company!
A lovely story for home and school!
How Many Dinosaurs is Too Many?
Lou Peacock, illustrated by Nicola Slater
Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1839945519
A Better Best Friend
One day, Squirrel finds a best friend, a mushroom called Pock. Together, they explore the forest, watch the leaves fall and although Pock doesn’t say much, having a best friend makes Squirrel very happy. But then Spring arrives bringing them a new friend, Moo, and Squirrel finds himself caught in a dilemma -who is his best friend? And then Gunther arrives…
Narrated by Squirrel, ‘A Better Best Friend’ explores what makes a ‘best’ friend and whether it is possible to have more than one. Full of charm and humour, it offers an excellent way to start conversations about friendship with children. Like many teachers, dealing with children who are hurt because their special friend wants to play with someone else is a common part of school life and sharing Squirrel’s quandary might well help to resolve things, encouraging them to widen their friendship group.
The book ends with a picture of the four friends playing a game of cards with the words ‘The (Better) End’ beneath, leaving the reader with an open-ended story perfect for conversations, role play and storytelling to help resolve- or not- Squirrel’s concern about having more than one ‘best’ friend and equally to consider the question from the other friends’ points of view.
Although the narrative is purely Squirrel’s, the wonderful range of expressions given speak volumes for how each character is feeling, giving each a distinctive personality. The dry humour of the text and the charming illustrations make this an engaging and thought-provoking book!
A Better Best Friend
Olivier Tallec, translated by Antony Shugaar
Gecko Press ISBN: 978-1776575732
Published 1st May
Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.
The Little Books of the Little Brontës
Sharing the story of the young Brontës, this gorgeous book not only introduces young children to the lives of this incredible family, but also inspires them to create their own miniature books and their own stories. Although pitched at a younger audience, there is much here to be enjoyed by readers of all ages. As a huge Brontë fan, I loved it!
Written with a direct appeal to the reader- If you look through the window…Let’s leave them there now…the text is very engaging and offers an overview of Charlotte, Branwell, Emily and Anne’s childhood at the Parsonage in Haworth. That their lives had been touched by sadness with the loss of their mother and older sisters is mentioned briefly in the text, but the focus of the book is their wonderful creativity and love of telling stories. They had each other, the moors to explore- and their imaginations.
The illustrations are enchanting and anyone who has visited the Parsonage in Haworth will recognise the care with which Briony May Smith has depicted their home (although the wallpaper in the dining room is slightly different!)- the green couch, the white fire surround, the dark wooden table where they used to write. She manages to capture the wild beauty of the moors and the closeness of the family as well as giving life to their imaginings and creativity. One illustration shows Branwell painting the famous family portrait including himself, offering yet another starting point for further discussion and discovery.
An author’s note and a timeline of events are included at the end of the book, adding details about their lives beyond the focus of the story. There is also a reproduction of the family portrait with the blurry space between sisters where Branwell might once have stood. The book is a wonderful introduction to, and celebration of, the childhood of these incredible individuals.
There are instructions for how to make your own little book like those the Brontë children used to make. This is an essential addition to any Brontë lover’s collection, but also a wonderful introduction to their lives for children and adults alike.
The Little Books of the Little Brontës
Sara O’Leary and Briony May Smith
Walker ISBN: 978-1529518313
You can read about my visit to the Becoming the Brontës exhibition in Leeds here, Top Withens here and the Brontë Birthplace here.
Tide Magic: The Many Faces of Ista Flit
Amongst the cobbled streets and misty alleyways of Shelwich, magic rises and falls with the Tide. When the Tide is out, the magic ebbs to a low murmur. When the Tide is in, the magic is high - and Tide-blessings are at their strongest.
For most people, the Tide-blessing they are born with is nothing more than a simple party trick: eyes that change colour, or the ability to recite a poem backwards. Some, though, are blessed with more powerful gifts. Telepathy. Flight. Or, in the case of Ista Flit, being able to transform to look like someone else. Anyone else...
Ista has come to Shelwich in search of her missing father, and she'll do anything to find him - even work for Shelwich's most notorious thief. Then she meets Nat and Ruby, both struggling with their own search: Nat for his little brother, Ravi, and Ruby for her sister Saf. As more strange disappearances send shockwaves through the town, they must form a tentative friendship and draw on all the Tidemagic they can to unravel a mystery that leads to an old, abandoned theatre, and to the ancient caves beneath Shelwich. But what they find there will be far more than they have bargained for... (synopsis taken from publishers)
Oh my word! What an incredible story! I was lucky enough to find a copy of ‘Tide Magic’ in the goodie bag I received at the FCBG Conference last weekend and finding myself awake bright ad early on the Saturday morning, thought I would give it a go- and I could not put it down.
From the outset, the book is rich in imagination and brilliantly constructed world building. Added to this is evocative, descriptive writing which is a pleasure to read- and a delight to read aloud, making this a brilliant choice as a class story- or guided reading text- offering so much to discuss and enjoy.
Bold and loyal, Ista is a brilliant character and the reader is quickly invested in her story, intrigued by her Tide-blessing and the deal she has entered into with the mysterious Alexo Rokis. Although she tries to convince herself (and everyone else) that she is ‘dangerous’, Ista is actually kind-hearted and caring, leading her to find the friendship with Nat and Ruby which she didn’t think she needed. The ending of the story makes it clear that there are more adventures to come for this plucky and endearing heroine- and I can’t wait for what comes next!
Tantalising mysteries are entwined through the story as Ista’s search for her father leads her, Nat and Ruby into a dark and devious plot, liberally strewn with red herrings to keep the reader guessing and second guessing who is behind the appearance of the ominous grilks, hideous monsters, and the disappearances happening across the town, right to the very end of the book!
I cannot recommend this one highly enough! I was hooked from the first line.
Tide Magic: The Many Faces of Ista Flit
Clare Harlow, illustrated by Karl James Mountford
Puffin ISBN: 978-0241636053
Published 2nd May 2024
Zooming the Zoo
‘Zooming the Zoo’ is packed full of a fabulous collection of poems, ranging from the light-hearted and humorous to those which are more poignant, using a range of poetic styles and techniques.
‘Poetry Rules’ is the opening poem of the collection, welcoming the reader with an understanding of the ‘rules’ of poetry- that there are none! It sets the tone for the joy which follows and is sure to appeal to poetry lovers and the poetry reluctant alike!
There are so many poems here worth commenting on. ‘Just Let Me Read’ is a real treat, celebrating the joy of books and reading for pleasure whilst ‘Learning to Walk’ offers excellent advice! ‘When You’re a Kid’ is great fun- sure to keep kids - and their teachers- giggling! And O agree wholeheartedly with ‘The Problem With Acrostics’!
But there are also plenty of poems which offer pause for thought. ‘Yellow Group’ breaks my teacher’s heart as each child should feel valued for any and all of their talents and not diminished by any perceived weaknesses. In ‘The First Time I Went to Scotland’, John shares a childhood memory which I’m sure will shock many, just as it shocked me! ‘If Somebody Hurts You’ is wonderfully empowering, a mantra to learn and share with everyone.
An excellent collection for home or school, ‘Zooming the Zoo’ is a treasure trove of poetic delight!
Zooming the Zoo
John Dougherty, illustrated by Tom Morgan-Jones
Otter-Barry Books ISBN: 978-1915659217
You can read my review of ‘The Hare-Shaped Hole’ here.
Beastlands: Race to Frostfall Mountain
Kayla is a cadet Sky Rider, training at the Sky Academy in Sophiatown. Her only friend is her pangron, Faro, and when he is stolen from her, she will stop at nothing to get him back.
Alethea is a healer living in the Blue District, the poorest in Ataria. She is trying to continue her father’s work, helping others, particularly against the Scourge, a deadly disease killing many in the city and beyond. When her grandmother shows signs of the disease, Alethea knows she must leave the city to seek a cure.
Rustus also lives in Ataria- but in the Red District. Desperate to gain positive attention from his disdainful father, he is determined to come first in the Scorching Ceremony, a test by which the Unscorched become the Scorched- esteemed warriors of the Atarian army. But when he fails this initiation, he is banished to the Beastlands.
And here their worlds collide-and they find themselves an unlikely team, united in a quest to save Faro and find a cure for the Scourge…
Hearing Jess French speak at the FCBG Conference this weekend reminded me of just how much I enjoyed this book- and that I hadn’t reviewed it! Jess’s passion for nature and living things shines through the world she has created which in many ways reflects our own.
The care and attention to detail used in building the world of Ramoa, where the story is set, is phenomenal! Readers share in Rustus’s wonder as he sees the plants and creatures outside the city walls for the first time, realising that he has been misled by those within. Alethea’s passion for plants, her curiosity about them and respect for what they can do is infectious. Atmospheric and evocative, Jess’s writing is a joy to read- and read aloud!
Time is devoted at the beginning of the book to the development of each character, making the reader feel invested in each and ready to join them on their quest. Rustus, Alethea and Kayla are very different personalities from very different backgrounds yet they complement each other brilliantly. Kayla is the most resistant to relying on and working with others as her experiences have taught her to be wary, but she learns to trust, finding that true friends are worth having and can be depended upon. Rustus is a great example of how people are not always what they seem -or are expected to be- finding his place in the world- a place not defined by his father.
The plot romps along at a pleasing pace and would make an excellent class story or guided reading text. As well as an exciting and engaging tale, there is so much to discuss, explore and enjoy here such as showing respect and understanding for the plants and creatures of the world, working in harmony with the world rather than exploiting its bounty, empathising with and getting to know others rather than labelling and judging. Fortunately, the ending sets the scene for more books to come as I was very reluctant to leave this world as the story came to an end. Loved it!
Beastlands: Race to Frostfall Mountain
Jess French
Piccadilly ISBN: 978-1800784062
Blog Tour: The Doll Twin
Since the death of her parents, Una has been living in a children’s home. Missing her lighthouse home and the moods of the sea, she find life here hard, her ways infuriating Matron who calls her ‘Una the Unwanted’ and ‘Una the Unstable’. When the Smiths arrive and decide that they want to adopt her, Una is thrilled both by being wanted and by returning to live by the sea. But her new home, Copperlins, although impressive, is strange and leaves her feeling unsettled. The villagers of Knifely Stifling are wary of the house- and its inhabitants- but Una strikes up a friendship with Mary, a village girl, giving her a feeling of belonging. However, she cannot pretend that the strange occurences and noises in Copperlins are not happening and one night, she comes face to face with life-sized doll which looks just like her…
Sounds intriguing? It most certainly is! ‘The Doll Twin’ is a deliciously spooky read which keeps the reader guessing with the plot making twist after turn as poor Una finds herself facing peril, unsure of who she can trust and how she will survive.
I love the character of Una. Desperate to be a ‘good’ daughter, she struggles to mould herself to be the daughter she thinks the Smiths want whilst trying to hold on to being herself and doing what she thinks is right. Her curiosity, courage and loyalty are all severely tested yet she faces and overcomes many challenges, including being confronted by a life-sized copy of herself who she comes to know as ‘Ani’, an Animated Curiosity. I don’t want to spoil the story so I will say no more about this…
The story is wonderfully atmospheric, with locations and buildings taking on a life of their own, adding much to moments of tension or great emotion. The sea ebbs and flows through Una’s life, offering peril, sanctuary and home. ‘The Doll Twin’ is an excellent read- one not to miss!
The Doll Twin Janine Beacham
Firefly ISBN: 978-1915444479
Many thanks to Janine and the lovely people at Firefly for asking me to take part in this Blog Tour! Make sure you look at the other stops and find out what everyone else thinks about this brilliant story.
Cat Nap
Meet a little cat who needs a nap! But there are so many things which get in the way of nap time when you are an inquisitive, busy little kitten with so much to explore!
As a lover of cats and a lover of Steve Antony’s books, I was really excited about ‘Cat Nap’- and what a joy it is. Steve has managed to capture such a toddler-like range of postures and expressions as Cat gradually gives in to nap time that any adult who has ever been part of the elaborate dance of ‘how to avoid going to sleep’ which seems to be programmed into all little ones will instantly recognise!
The book bursts with gentle humour, captured through the gorgeous illustrations and the simple text. Bedtime routine- plus detours- is established using minimal words, allowing the very youngest children to join in with telling the story - and no doubt, adding their own personal details to it. Surprisingly, it doesn’t include a bedtime story, but as the ‘voice’ is that of the adult who never appears in the illustrations, perhaps this would have been tricky!
Cat’s little face (oh, those eyes!) conveys such a wealth of emotions that the story is perfect for encouraging little ones to share how they think Cat is feeling and in turn, how they feel at these times, making it a great read not only for bedtime, but any time! I believe there are more books to come in this series which I very much look forward to seeing!
Cat Nap Steve Antony
Macmillan ISBN: 978-1035029020
Out on the 11th April!
FCBG24
Another year, another conference! Henceforth known as ‘The Fun One’… the Eurovision/ SuperBowl of the KidLit calendar’ thanks to the very lovely October Jones, the FCBG Conference is always a fabulous occasion and this year’s was no exception! If anyone was wondering whether it’s worth ‘sacrificing’ one of their precious weekends for, the answer is absolutely and unequivocally YES!
This year, Woldingham School in Surrey was where it all happened. The school is set in 700 acres of lovely countryside, making it a very peaceful spot to stay and as the weather was mostly kind to us, a pleasant place to wander round.
Although the Conference Committee and their helpers has been busy for hours, delegates started to arrive at 3pm. It is always lovely to catch up with familiar faces, but a fantastic opportunity to connect with new people as well- discovering the face behind the social media name or simply meeting like minded book-lovers whilst having a cuppa and a cake.
The weekend began in earnest with afternoon tea celebrating the 10th anniversary of Supertato! Not only were there delicious cupcakes, but the tater himself made an appearance, delighting everyone with his willingness to pose for pictures! Following this were the Publishers’ Presentations, a fantastic opportunity to hear about some of the wonderful books which are currently available and coming soon. With such a wealth of books available, it is a great way of spotting books of interest to have a look at and discuss with the publishers at the exhibition!
The Publishers’ Exhibition which followed their presentations is undoubtedly one of the highlights of Conference for many delegates. The opportunity to have a closer look at some of the books mentioned in the presentations is a real joy, but actually being able to meet lovely publishing people is really special, offering an opportunity to chat about different titles, enter competitions and perhaps be offered a proof copy of something up-coming! And they really are lovely people..!
After dinner, everyone headed to the Mansion House for drinks. Sam Sedgman gave a brilliant talk about his work, including his latest book, ‘The Clockwork Conspiracy’ (review here). His knowledge, sense of humour and enthusiasm for discovering things and being interested in the world made him an absolute joy to listen to!
A hard act to follow you might think, but what came next was a fabulous session of music and poetry from three of the best! Treating us to a medley of well-known songs with altered lyrics such as ‘Feeding my Mind’ (Staying Alive) and ‘FCBG’ (Tragedy), the combined talents of Laura Mucha (review of ‘Celebrate!’ here and ‘Dear Ugly Sisters’ here), John Dougherty (The Hare-Shaped Hole here) and Roger Stevens (review of Razzmatazz here) were just what was needed to round off what had been an excellent start to the weekend!
Saturday was off to a bang with Cressida Cowell (The Wizards of Once) and David Almond (Bone Music), two real treasures of children’s books who I could have listened to all day! They were followed by a session called ‘Disadvantaged Boys Have Feelings Too’ with Brian Conaghan and Nathanael Lessore which I wasn’t able to enjoy as I was on the reception desk at this time, but which everyone was full of praise for!
After another round of cupcakes, Jenny Pearson took the stage for a fabulously funny and entertaining session. This was followed by the choice of four seminars: NSSM with Margaret Bateson-Hill, NNFN, graphic novels with Steve Webb and how to become an author with Julia Green (The Boy who Sailed the World). A tough decision to make!
After lunch, there was a session with Jennifer Killick (Dread Wood) and Peter Bentley (Octopus Shocktopus), past winners of the CBA which some children had been invited to attend. Next came the ‘Empathy in Picture Books’ panel with Mariajo Ilustrajo, Farrah Riaz and Kim Hillyard (Mabel and the Mountain), a wonderful session! More tea and cake followed to celebrate 30 years of ‘Dinosaur Roar!’ before the Group meetings.
And there was still more to come! We celebrated Michael Morpurgo’s 80th birthday with him before the Gala Dinner and then the incomparable David Fickling gave the after dinner speech! His enthusiasm and energy are completely infectious, making the perfect end to another perfect day!
Although some were a little bleary eyed from staying on at the bar the night before, everyone was up bright and early on Sunday to enjoy yet more book-ish joy! The first session was Lisa Williamson, an excellent YA author (First Day of My Life) , talking about her new MG series ‘Best Friends Forever’. This was followed by ‘Inclusion in Fiction’, a panel event with Sarah Hagger-Holt, Lisette Auton and Karen Owen. Lisette Auton wasn’t able to join us in person, but appeared on screen! Both of these session were thought-provoking as well as enjoyable.
Our final tea break -more cake!- was followed by ‘Fantasy with an Environmental Twist’, a fascinating session with Pari Thomson, Jess French and Rachel Delahaye (Day of the Whale). And last, but very much not least, Christopher Edge (Escape Room) closed conference in style with another excellent, fun session which no one will forget in a hurry!
Time for lunch and then we were all saying our goodbyes- and promising to meet again in Monmouth next year so we can do it all again! Many thanks to the Conference Committee for organising such a fabulous event and many apologies if I’ve left anyone out of the pictures! Can’t wait for FCBG25!
When the Storm Came
Little Frog and his family live by the river and play on its bank, but they stay away from the old tree stump where the Big Scary Thing lives. One day, however, a very big storm suddenly arrives and Little Frog falls right into the tree stump where he comes face to face with Big Scary Thing…and realises that it might not be quite so scary after all. When the storm blows them all into the water, Little Frog is safe and happy, but the Big Scary Thing and some little scary things are in trouble so all the frogs work together to save the day!
In ‘When the Storm Came’, Chris Naylor-Ballesteros has come up trumps yet again with another wonderful story. Seemingly simple, there is so much to explore and enjoy, making it a wonderful book to share at home, at school- everywhere!
‘Big Scary Thing’ personifies all those unknown entities which, because they are unknown, unfamiliar or simply different, swell to nightmare status without really deserving it. Once faced with this particular Big Scary Thing, Little Frog initially misreads its actions and assumes he is going to be eaten, but he soon realises that the action was protective and that the Big Scary Thing was just as scared of the storm as he was and was only seeking to look after and comfort Little Frog along with the little scary things. The story offers a wonderful starting point for encouraging children (and adults!) to get to know others before judging them and to consider other viewpoints. Re-telling the story from the Big Scary Thing’s perspective offers a wonderful writing opportunity- perhaps creating a play script and acting the story out using glove puppets, or hot-seating the characters and using role play/ freeze-framing to explore their feelings.
Little Frog needs the support of his family to help Big Scary Thing. Big Scary Thing – although big and scary- needs the help of the frogs. We all need help from time to time and we should all be ready and willing to offer support when needed. With its fabulous illustrations and big-hearted story, ‘When the Storm Came’ is sure to be a winner with adults and children alike!
When the Storm Came
Chris Naylor-Ballesteros
Andersen ISBN: 978-1839132575
You can read my review of Frank and Bert here, Frank and Bert: The One Where Bert Learns to Ride a Bike here and Frank and Bert: The One with the Missing Biscuits here
Is It a Seed?
When two children discover a seed, they plant it and then start to wonder what it might become. Will it be a flower? A tree? Or a magic beanstalk?
Celebrating the power of the imagination, ‘Is It a Seed?’ is an absolute joy of a book! As the children in the story chat excitedly about their treasure, they build on each other’s ideas, allowing their imaginations to run riot. They draw on stories they know, combining and creating their own visions and exploring a world of possibilities in the way children do when allowed the time and space to play and imagine! The illustrations bring their ideas vividly to life, adding plenty of details to enjoy and explore. Readers are sure to offer their own ideas, using their own experiences reading and TV/film watching to enrich and adapt their suggestions.
The book is also perfect for inspiring interest in growing seeds and watching ‘something amazing’ happen. The end papers capture the flourishing of the imagination, but page by page, there are changes in the family’s garden, showing them planting and nurturing seeds and plants through the seasons. As time passes, sharp eyed children are sure to also notice that mum is pregnant in one picture and then seen holding a baby in another! The imagination offers them immediate gratification, but their little seed takes time and patience to blossom.
‘Is It a Seed?’ is sure to become a firm story time favourite, at home and at school, perfect for sharing and then reading and re-reading/ picture browsing independently, wallowing in imaginative dreams and creating stories of their own. An absolute joy!
Is It a Seed?
Emily Ann Davison, illustrated by Adriena Fong
Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1838741587
Little People, Big Dreams games
The long Easter weekend offers plenty of time for playing games whilst eating plenty of chocolate. This year, we enjoyed playing two games based on the very popular ‘Little People, Big Dreams’ series.
‘Who Am I?’ is based on the game ‘Guess Who?’ and features historical figures from the books. One player chooses to be blue and one yellow before setting up their board, secretly selecting one of the cards to be their character. This they hide in their ‘shield’ card so the other player can’t see it. However, unlike traditional ‘Guess Who?’, this game encourages children to learn more about the personalities shared in the game. Under each picture there are icons- for example, a medal, a microphone, a football- giving clues to that person’s achievements, making it easier for the players to eliminate people. The booklet contains a list of question prompts and a brief biography of each historical figure which includes the aforementioned icons.
The game was a huge success with our visitors recognising some of the figures and enjoying learning about others. The questioning prompts worked really well, supporting everyone from 6 to much older with the game! The pieces are sturdy, standing up to plenty of usage, and everyone was keen to play more than once.
‘Amazing Women’ is a pairs game which can be played in two ways. With the cards facing up, pairs can be matched and then players can discover more about each in the accompanying booklet. Alternatively, the cards can be placed faced down and two turned over at a time. If the cards make a pair, the player keeps them and play continues; if not, the cards are turned over again. This was the version which we enjoyed most! The cards show the amazing woman in two different poses- one a ‘portrait’ and the other showing their ‘Big Dream’ and this inspired a lot of conversation and fun finding out. This game disappeared with our visitors when they went home as it could be enjoyed as a car game, home game, quickly put away and quickly got out…
Both games were a real hit and kept everyone entertained whilst learning about some fascinating historical figures.
Little People, Big Dreams: Who Am I? A Guessing Game
ISBN: 978-0711290310
Little People, Big Dreams: Amazing Women A Memory Game
ISBN: 978-0711287037
Splinters
With her best friend moving to Scotland, Jean is only consoled by the thought of spending the summer with her first boyfriend, Leon. However, when he tells her that he is off to America for three weeks and her parents announce the family are moving house, her holiday does not go to plan and things get worse as, on his return, Leon seems changed towards her. No longer the loving boyfriend who went away, he is cold and distant, determined only to get his hands on a strange mirror in Jean’s possession, a mirror which seems to reflect a world of different choices and possibilities.
Intriguing from the first page, ‘Splinters’ is another stunning read from Rachel Delahaye. It is also going to be very hard to review without spoiling it for any future readers- and I really don’t want to do that!
Jean really represents all of us at some time or another. Things are not going smoothly for her and she is experiencing her fair share of teenage angst, heartache, friendship and family problems- all the things which make you start to question the choices you have made- the what ifs - about life. However, she really learns that the grass is not always greener and that what might appear to be the ‘unadventurous simplicity’ of someone else’s life is no better than your own. The story is brilliantly constructed, keeping the reader constantly guessing - and perhaps challenging them to reflect on what their own choices might (or might not) be!
Character is something Rachel does really well and different facets of personality are skilfully explored here, how the ways we react to others, how we handle situations, how our choices affect our lives. No life is perfect, but the one we have is the one we should focus on. As well as being an extremely gripping read, the story offers much to reflect upon. In the end, there are still choices to be made, leaving the reader wondering which one Jean finally makes.
There is so much to recommend ‘Splinters’- not least the way music has been used throughout the story! It is a deliciously dark tale, full of suspense and I cannot recommend it highly enough!
Splinters Rachel Delahaye
Troika
Coming soon…
You can read my review of ‘Day of the Whale’ here and ‘Electric Life’ here.
Pop!
One afternoon, Dave and his friends burst into life when a pan of corn is put on the hob. Bouncing around the pan, at last the popping stops and after a shower of sugar, they all settle down to watch a movie.
Bursting with bright, colourful illustrations, ‘Pop!’ is wonderfully quirky and full of fun! Matt Carr manages to convey such personality to Dave and his pals as they pop into life. The lively rhyming text is perfect for reading aloud, with lots of ‘popping’ noises to join in with. The story also offers a brilliant excuse for making and sharing popcorn, enjoying watching the process, discussing what’s happening and relating this to the book.
The story links brilliantly to learning to count to 10- and beyond! Children will enjoy drawing Dave and his cheeky popcorn pals, numbering and naming them, as well as creating their own characters. A brilliant tale for home and school!
Pop! Matt Carr
Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702306228
The Whisperwicks: The Labyrinth of Lost and Found
Benjamin Creek does not believe in magic, preferring science, logic and reasoning until he is led into the impossibly magical world of Wreathenwold. With a girl called Elizabella, Benjamin finds himself on a perilous quest to find Elizabella’s missing twin, Edwid, making a promise he is determined to keep to bring the twins home safely.
This is one of those books where attempting a summary is useless as trying to capture this magical adventure in a few words is impossible! Fantastic, detailed world building and compelling characters make this a book not to be missed.
From the opening page the reader is drawn into this world where a boy who lives in a bookshop called Once Upon a Time receives a mysterious package containing a doll which starts his adventure. A lover of logic, Benjamin finds himself thrown into a world completely outside his comfort zone. As his reluctant decision to accompany Elizabella on her journey to find her brother leads to a tentative peace and then a firm friendship, Benjamin learns much about himself and how he views the world. The two make a perfect team as their differing personalities lend each other strength- the one being governed by logic, the other impulsive courage and determination.
In a plot which is fast paced and full of action, the parallel world Benjamin finds himself in is ruled by a fearful monster where the population is controlled by the sinister masked Hanged Men and anyone straying too far from their home will forget how to return and become lost. Twisting through moments of fear, great tension and peril, the story balances these with touches of poignancy, making it well rounded and engaging.
There is so much to recommend ‘The Whisperwicks’, not least the loving description of the bookshop and sentiments like ‘I’ve never met a reader who wasn’t special in one way or another…’. Carefully constructed, thought-provoking and thoroughly enjoyable, it is one of those must read books which no one should miss!
The Whisperwicks: The Labyrinth of Lost and Found
Jordan Lees, illustrated by Vivienne To
Puffin ISBN: 978-0241711989
Published 28th March 2024
Wilding: How to Bring Wildlife Back - An Illustrated Guide
‘Wilding: How to Bring Wildlife Back - An Illustrated Guide’ tells the story of the Knepp Estate in West Sussex and how the owners have allowed nature to return, bringing wildlife back to the estate. Now home to an abundance of creatures, including many rare species, the estate shows the importance- and benefits of rewilding.
Described as ‘a re-imagining of Wilding: The Return of Nature to a British Farm’, ‘Wilding’ is both fascinating and beautiful. Watercolours and lino prints by Angela Harding adorn every page offering a sense of the wonders this endeavour has brought about. A timeline at the beginning of the book outlines the events from the creation of the estate in William the Conqueror’s time through the changes of the Industrial Revolution, the Second World War, intensive farming and the family’s decision to stop farming and allow nature to thrive. From this point, the book is a celebration of the new landscape and its inhabitants with careful explanation of how this was achieved and ideas for how to rewild your own space.
Although pitched at younger readers, this book is an absolutely absorbing read for anyone. Both of my parents, my husband, my neighbour, my son and his girlfriend were all drawn towards this book, spending time getting lost in its pages and exclaiming in delight at the illustrations and pictures of the changes and the beauties of nature. It is a book which makes you pause and ponder the possibilities for your own environment, leaving you full of hope for the future.
‘Wilding: How to Bring Wildlife Back - An Illustrated Guide’
Isabella Tree, illustrated by Angela Harding
Macmillan ISBN: 978-1529092844
Aliya to the Infinite City
Since the death of her parents, Aliya has lived in Cairo with her grandfather, Geddo. Recently, he has been acting strangely, disappearing for hours on end and forgetting her birthday. When a mysterious gift arrives, things change dramatically. Geddo is taken away and Aliya finds herself whisked off on a flying carpet by a relative she never knew she had. Finding herself in the Infinite City, she is enrolled as a student at the Infinitum School of Time Travel. But she finds herself a target for the evil forces her grandfather had tried so hard to hide her from- Dorian Darke, a master of time who wants to use Aliya’s special skills for his own devious ends.
Offering an absorbing read, ‘Aliya to the Infinite City’ is a fabulous adventure, full of magic and mystery. Set in an alternate Egypt, Laila Rifaat’s world building is vivid and colourful, seamlessly interweaving cultural details into the story. Mischievous magic carpets, sinister genies and knowledge turbans all feature in this exciting tale!
Discovering that she comes from a long line of time travellers, Aliya has to navigate an unfamiliar world full of mystery and magic. A likeable character, she shows great determination and courage as she tries to uncover details of her family’s past and find her own place in the world. The plot is full of action with many twists and turns keeping the reader well and truly enthralled as the story builds towards its exciting climax, paving the way for more adventures to come. I am very much looking forward to the next book in the series!
Aliya to the Infinite City
Laila Rifaat
Chicken House ISBN: 978-1915026354
Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.
When the Wild Calls
Juniper and Bear are now living in Ennerdale with their father, his new partner, Willow, and their baby, Fern. The life they escaped in the city should be in the past, but neither can rest easy knowing they left their grandmother, Annie-Rose, and friend, Ettienne, behind. When they learn that disease is spreading through the city, Juniper is determined to rescue them and bring them to safety.
Inside the city, there are signs that the tight control held by ruthless leader, President Steel, is weakening. But signs of rebellion by a group called the Polecats have made the authorities more aggressive. Etienne, determined to fight for freedom, soon finds himself in grave danger and in need of rescue from more than the city itself.
I am sometimes reluctant to read sequels, even though desperate to return to the world of a story which I have really enjoyed, just in case they do not live up to the original. However, I needn’t have worried in this case! ‘When the Wild Calls’ offers exactly the same absorbing, heartfelt, powerful read as ‘Where the World Turns Wild’ and it was a joy to revisit them and discover what happened next.
Both Etienne and Juniper’s voices tell this story in alternating chapters, allowing the reader to see events unfolding both inside the city and in the wild. Each has a clear and different voice, full of concerns about those they love, as they recount the events of their lives, one making their way back to the city, one desperate to leave it. Each shows huge strength of character and courage, fighting for what they believe in and remaining loyal to those they love.
The story is beautifully written, glowing with a love of nature and full of careful observations capturing the tiniest details as well as sweeping landscapes. Although Nicola Penfold makes it clear that the places she is writing about are her imagined interpretations, it is obvious these are locations she loves. I love the mention of the Wordsworths’ graves- another marker on Juniper’s journey for the reader to locate!
Like ‘Where the World Turn Wild’, ‘When the Wild Calls’ would make an excellent text for sharing in school, either as a class story, a guided reading text or to inspire work in English lessons. The quality of the writing, its vivid message about the importance of caring for nature and the appealing characters all make the book sure to capture the imagination.
A stunning read from one of my favourite authors!
When the Wild Calls
Nicola Penfold
Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1788956215
You can read my review of ‘Beyond the Frozen Horizon’ here
We are the Wibbly! A Tadpole’s Tail
Happy in the Wibbly with the other eggs, one tiny creature is enjoying a relaxing life. Suddenly, things start changing. First, all the Wibbly friends grow tails and become tadpoles. Next, they have burst out of the Wibbly, then grown legs, then arms…and all the while, the tiny creature is reluctantly keeping up on this journey from spawn to frog!
This is one of those wonderful books which works in so many ways! ‘We are the Wibbly’, apart from having an excellent title, offers a really entertaining look at the life cycle of a frog, clearly showing each stage of development, making it an excellent teaching tool!
However, the reluctance of this one little egg to grow up and the anxiety and pressure it feels at having to keep up with the others, also makes this a reassuring story to share with little ones experiencing the same emotions. Unwilling to leave the Wibbly, the mass of frogspawn it shares with its fellows, the little frog-to-be is horrified by change in the others, the filled with self-doubt as it is left behind. Then, no sooner had it become ‘longish’ like the others than they were all bursting from the Wibbly and water-flying, causing yet more feelings of anxiety and confusion. The beauty of the way in which this story is presented is that it could also be read with older children experiencing similar emotions, allowing them to distance themselves whilst discussing the content, perhaps in relation to younger children, and allowing them to explore ways of coping with these feelings. Indeed, there are days when I think ‘Oh my crikeys!’ at just how fast time is passing and how much things are changing!
There will be people who are not fans of the use (or misuse!) of grammar to express the little creature’s thoughts, but this just adds to the charm of the story! It also lends itself quite brilliantly to being the basis for a fun lesson about the use of subject-verb agreement in ‘standard’ English by playing with, and creating, sentences which defy the rules as well as those which conform.
The illustrations are just wonderful. Full of colour and energy, they capture the contrast between little creature’s reactions to its changing circumstances and those of its fellows, offering much to discuss. Children could write from the viewpoint of one of the other tadpoles, showing how their experiences differ.
Hilarious and heartwarming!
We are the Wibbly! A Tadpole’s Tail
Sarah Tagholm, illustrated by Jane McGuinness
Bloomsbury ISBN: 978-1526627346
Published 28th March 2024