NNFN2024: Boats and Space

Two brilliant choices for day 13 of NNFN2024, both created by Jan van der Veken. ‘Boats’ and ‘Space’ are both fascinating books, full of detail to keep readers entertained for hours.

‘Space’ starts by looking at rockets with labelled diagrams, supporting readers in identifying their components. It then follows the development of space exploration from Sputnik, the first satellite in in space to manned pace flights, how astronauts train and the space suits they wear. Significant moments in the history of space travel, exploration and discovery are explored and everything is clearly explained. Myths - and facts- surrounding the possibility of extraterrestrial life are also considered and the book ends with a thoughtful section on how humans have polluted space.

It is a fascinating and detailed read for both those with an interest in space and those new to the topic!

From outer space to the waters of the world, ‘Boats’ brings readers back to earth with a splash! from looking at ship design, the reader is led on an absorbing array of nautical topics, offering a look at historic events, vessels and figures as well as some of the superstitions and legends surrounding boats. Information on topics such as lighthouses, morse code, the use of knots and sextants provide a varied and interesting read, all accompanied by attractive illustrations and labelled diagrams.

Both books would make excellent additions to any library, enriching the curriculum and broadening the range of topics which children might encounter- a couple of the many ways in which libraries are both essential and invaluable!

Space: From Sputnik to the International Space Station

Jan van der Veken

Prestel ISBN: 978-3791375816

Boats: Steamers, Icebreakers and Ghost Ships

Jan van der Veken

Prestel ISBN: 978-3791375809

NNFN2024: An Angler’s Almanac: My First Day Fishing

Written by BBC presenter and fishing expert Will Millard, ‘An Angler’s Almanac: My First Day Fishing’ offers everything a young angler needs to know. First hand experience, tips and anecdotes make it a very accessible and appealing read to guide those new to the activity and support those looking to develop their skill, making it a perfect read for NNFN2024!

So much information is included from which tackle to choose to the different rods available, from which knots to use to the types of bait on offer. There is also a fish-identification guide and, importantly, advice on how to look after any fish which are caught and how to return them safely to the water. There is a real emphasis throughout the book on the responsibilities of those who fish and the fact that it is a privilege, not a right, to pursue this pastime.

The book is very attractively presented, with plenty of illustrations, and step-by-step instruction to support any reader contemplating becoming an angler. Labelled diagrams are used for clarification and there is a comprehensive glossary at the end of the book. Written in a very direct, accessible style, ‘An Angler’s Almanac: My First Day Fishing’ makes an excellent and enjoyable companion to this hobby.

An Angler’s Almanac: My First Day Fishing

Will Millard, illustrated by Joanna Lisowiec

Magic Cat ISBN: 978-1915569288

NNFN2024: Volcano Atlas

I have taught the topic of ‘Volcanoes’ many times during my teaching career and really wish that I had had ‘Volcano Atlas’ to support both me in my teaching and my classes in their learning! Offering a very comprehensive and readable guide, it offers a brilliant guide to volcanoes around the world.

Starting with a general introduction, the book then explains how volcanoes form, the different types that there are and their features. A mixture of labelled diagrams, illustrations and photographs are used on each spread to support the information with headings and side headings to help readers navigate the text.

Each volcano is then introduced with a fact file and a satellite image to show its location. Information about the wildlife, myths and legends and historical details connected to that volcano is also included along with specific facts. The volcanoes are organised continent by continent and a comprehensive index makes it easy for the reader to locate information, although it is an easy book to enjoy browsing through as there is so much to discover and enjoy here.

An invaluable resource for teachers, ‘Volcano Atlas’ would make an excellent addition to any library. A real must have!

Volcano Atlas: An Epic Journey Around the World’s Most Incredible Volcanoes

Tom Jackson, illustrated by Maggie Li

Words and Pictures ISBN: 978-0711283787

NNFN2024: Insectarium

The latest addition to the ‘Welcome to the Museum’ books, ‘Insectarium’, does not disappoint fans of this incredible series. Like the others, it is beautifully presented, allowing readers to explore the fascinating world of insects in detail and at their leisure.

Moving from Gallery to Gallery, every page is a celebration of ‘the most beautiful, fascinating and peculiar insects’, from their evolution to the need to protect and care for them today. The large format encourages readers to share these books and I have often seen children lying on the floor, grouped around books in this series, completely immersed in poring over every detail of the pictures and exploring the text. Offering a quality reading experience from the quality of the paper to the detail of the illustrations, children recognise and enjoy these books for what they are- something special!

I am not a fan of the term ‘gift book’ as I believe every book is a gift, but for both adults and children, ‘Insectarium’ is a book which will be treasured and returned to again and again!

Welcome to the Museum: Insectarium

curated by Emily Carter and Dave Goulson

Big Picture Press and the Royal Entomological Society ISBN: 978-1800782563

NNFN2024: 21 Things to do with a Mud Pie

Perfect for encouraging children to get outside and get muddy, ‘21 Things to do with a Mud Pie’ is full of enjoyable art and science activities, mingling learning and play. Each of the twenty-one suggestions is easily achievable and full of fun.

For each activity, there are clear instructions and attractive illustrations, making each step easy to follow- and each idea is sure to lead to more fun with mud! And there is much to learn whilst playing as the book contains plenty of information about ecosystems, plant growth etc which they might discover.

There are activities which can be enjoyed independently or with friends and those which might need the support of an adult. Whether watching worms, painting with mud, planting flowers or making mud pies, this is a wonderful book for encouraging outdoor play and enjoying the natural world!

21 Things to do with a Mud Pie

Jane Wilsher, illustrated by Teo Georgiev

Ivy Kids ISBN: 978-0711292635

NNFN2024: Foraging

‘Foraging: A Complete Guide for Kids and Families’ makes a perfect book for NNFN2024 as it is sure to encourage children- and their families- to engage in a new hobby! Packed with advice and activities, it is a cornucopia of inspiration for engaging with nature and the bounties it offers.

Although it makes the point that nature doesn’t fall neatly into categories, the book is presented in sections to help readers locate information about fruits and berries, plants and bushes, flowers and trees. Photos of each focused plant accompany the text which explores its appearance, where it can be found, its scientific and common names, the parts you can eat, when best to pick it before looking at what you can do with it. Terms are clearly explained and there are little challenges scattered throughout.

At every stage, the book encourages curiosity and exploration, offering details to notice and look for, as well as plenty of advice on how to forage safely and sustainably, looking after the environment as much as the individual. A section on poisonous plants at the end of the book flags some of the dangerous plants which budding foragers might come into contact with.

Not only does the book offer recipes to try, including drinks, foods, salves and balms, it also includes a wealth of folklore, historical details and fascinating facts. It really is a book to engage, entertain and educate the whole family whilst encouraging them to spend time together and develop an appreciation for, and love of, the natural world. When I was little, we used to love ‘blackberrying’ with Grandma- and this book takes that to another level!

Foraging: A Complete Guide for Kids and Families

Stella and Dane De Luca Mulandiee, illustrated by Elly Jahnz

Puffin ISBN: ‎ 978-0241654569

NNFN2024: 42 Artists Everyone Should Know

For day seven of National Non-Fiction November 2024, a book which is perfect for interesting children in works of art- and those who create them!

Presenting a selection of artists from all over the world, this book offers a wonderful introduction to both the people and their creations. With short fact files for quick reference, a time line locating their place in history and various examples of their work, the artists are presented in chronological order.

The book is beautifully presented. The contents pages show a small image of the artist (apart from Banksy!) alongside their name and relevant dates, making it easy to browse and select or locate a specific artist quickly. Each artist is explored through a mixture of concise biography and what makes their work special or unique. Additional information is included about the pictures which have been selected, often including questions to challenge readers and encourage them to think.

Alongside world-familiar names such as Monet and Rembrandt, the book includes artists like Maria Sibylla Merian, Jacob Lawrence, Leonora Carrington and Yayoi Kusama whose work might not be as familiar to so many people, allowing children to engage with the work of a wide range of styles, offering a starting point for further investigation, to compare and contrast works and to immerse themselves in the wonderful world of creativity.

‘42 Artists Everyone Should Know’ would make an excellent resource for teachers in need of some inspiration as well as a wonderful addition to home and school libraries. ‘Word explanations’ and brief descriptions of some of the most important eras and styles of art (which include page references for relevant artists) are provided at the end of the book, supporting and developing understanding. It is a wonderfully engaging and informative book.

42 Artists Everyone Should Know

Various authors

Prestel ISBN: 978-3791375700

NNFN2024: Amazing Asia

‘Amazing Asia’ is a stunning book. Even before opening it, there are so many details to notice on the foil embossed cover that the reader knows they are going to be in for a real treat of a read! Subtitled ‘An Encyclopaedia of an Epic Continent’, there is so much information packed into the book, complemented by beautiful illustrations, maps and timelines.

Having introduced the continent, there are then sections focusing on the different areas- east, south, southeast, west and north and central before looking at ‘Global Asia’. Each section opens with a map and a timeline of that area, allowing the reader to immerse themselves in the discovery of that region and to begin to appreciate just what an incredibly diverse and fascinating continent Asia is. Information about the people, culture, history, wildlife, landscape, sights and significant figures all builds a picture of the contributions Asia has made to the world.

East Asia is the region I am most familiar with, having visited China, Hong Kong, Macao, South Korea and Japan, so I was drawn to this section of the book first and really enjoyed revisiting those places through both text and illustration. Rashmi Sirdeshpande’s enthusiasm for her subject is infectious, clearly colouring her writing and making the reader long to visit every location mentioned and enjoy its wonders for themselves.

This is an essential text for schools to allow children, both those with roots in Asia and those with none, to read a refreshing and informative account about the continent which celebrates its diversity, culture and people, challenging unhealthy stereotypes and prejudices. It is perfect for browsing at leisure, dipping in and out of, or using as a research tool with its comprehensive index, glossary and contents page.

As I said previously, this is a stunning book, beautifully illustrated, thoughtfully written and gorgeously presented, making it a standout text in all areas.

Amazing Asia

Rashmi Sirdeshpande, illustrated by Jason Lyon

Wide Eyed Editions      ISBN: 978-0711288317

NNFN2024: Seven Small Inventions that Changed the World

For day 5 of NNFN2024, ‘Seven Small Inventions that Changed the World’, an utterly fascinating read which shares the story behind these small inventions which have transformed our lives. Perfect for sparking curiosity and inspiring the next generation of creative minds, this is a brilliant book!

The inventions covered are nails, wheels, springs, magnets, lenses, string and pumps. Each is clearly introduced with a spread outlining its history and development. This is then followed by pages on how the invention actually works, examples of other inventions which use that technology and finally, a focus on one particular thing which uses it.

Clear explanations are offered at each stage and, although there is no glossary, many technical terms are explained within the text. The book is full of vibrant, colourful illustrations which add plenty of interest and appeal to each invention. It certainly helps children understand how key events and individuals in design and technology have helped shape the world! Having said that, there is much here to interest and engage adults as well.

Seven Small Inventions that Changed the World

Roma Agrawal, illustrated by Jisu Choi

Laurence King     ISBN: 978-1510230750

NNFN2024: The Children’s Book of Wildlife Watching

Day 4 of National Non-Fiction November 2024! ‘The Children’s Book of Wildlife Watching’ is a companion to ‘The Children’s Book of Birdwatching’ and both are perfect for encouraging new interests in young children. ‘Wildlife Watching’ introduces readers to the wonderful world of wildlife which surrounds us and shows how much can be learned from observing nature around us.

A mixture of beautiful photographs and illustrations support the text, making each page full of appeal and interest to little explorers. Information is presented in clear, well-explained sections, signposted by headings and side-headings to guide the reader and there is a glossary at the end of the book. There are sections on minibeasts, reptiles and amphibians, birds and mammals, allowing families to focus on different species to investigate, perhaps led by the area they live in or a place they are visiting. There is much here that would also be useful to teachers setting up investigation spaces or themed activities for their classes.

Each section offers a practical activity which is both clearly explained and easy to undertake. These projects are supported by profiles of a range of creatures, each accompanied by a clear photograph to aid identification. A profile of the author is also presented at the end of the book, a lovely touch, allowing readers to see the ‘real’ person behind the work and also to convey a real enthusiasm for her subject!

A brilliant addition to home or school libraries, ‘The Children’s Book of Wildlife Watching’ offers an excellent starting point for inspiring a new hobby and building a life-long love of the world around us.

The Children’s Book of Wildlife Watching

Dan Rouse

DK ISBN: 978-0241661819

NNFN2024: Nature's Fascinating Friendships

‘Nature’s Fascinating Friendships’ is a beautifully presented factual text which celebrates ‘mutualistic symbiosis’ or the interactions between different species where both sides benefit. The book starts by zooming in on the ‘friend on the inside’ which humans have- the bacteria which keeps us healthy - before moving around the world, continent by continent to explore the ‘fascinating friendships’ which can be found there.

The text is written in a pleasant, ‘chatty’ style with clear, concise explanations, making it an informative and pleasurable read. Some pages include a quiz question (with answers at the bottom or side of the page!) and others encourage the reader to look for things in the illustrations, adding an interactive element to enjoy. The illustrations are really eye-catching, using colour to great effect, offering the perfect accompaniment to the text.

There is a real sense of how nature works smoothly through these partnerships which encourages readers to reflect on the benefits of harmonious relationships. Indeed, the book ends with a section on how we can be friends to nature, a suitable conclusion to this thought-provoking look at the natural world. A valuable addition to bookshelves, this is a book which will absorb and inspire!

Nature’s Fascinating Friendships

Mike Hills, illustrated by Kerry Hyndman

Faber ISBN: 978-0571372591

NNFN2024: The Jellyfish Garden

For day 2 of NNFN2024, I am reviewing ‘The Jellyfish Garden’, a fascinating book which takes a look at the watery world of the incredible creatures- and taught me how little I knew about them!

Having started by describing the features of these strange creatures, the differences and similarities between species are then highlighted. Carefully labelled diagrams show various views, including cross sections to support the reader’s understanding of their structure. Each carefully presented spread is packed with information, offered in accessible sections.

The enthusiasm of the author for their subject shines through the text, answering all the questions you might think of about these creatures- and a few more! Whether a reader with a deep interest in the oceans and the creatures which live there or someone who wants to find out more about jellyfish, everyone who picks up this book will be rewarded with the wealth of information and detail it offers.

The Jellyfish Garden: Explore their Curious World

Paola Vitale and Rossana Bossu

Post Wave ISBN: 978-1836270003

NNFN2024: Tasty Tales

My first review for NNFN2024 is ‘Tasty Tales’, a fascinating book which offers ‘facts and fables about our favourite foods’. Each story explores the origin of a well-known dish, piquing the reader’s interest in countries and events from around the world which they might previously have been unaware of. It is a fascinating read - a book for school and home!

Using a light-hearted and engaging style, the stories are accompanied by the author’s bright, colourful illustrations which add much to the book’s appeal. A map at the beginning shows where in the world each food is from and a bibliography is included for those who wish to discover more. I really wish more children’s books would offer this! Some recipes to try are also offered on the author’s website which makes the book even more engaging.

‘Tasty Tales’ would be excellent to use for a series of assemblies. From locating places/ countries/continents on a map to developing general knowledge, they also encourage curiosity in the wider world and allow children to recognise the connections between people as they share these ingredients and dishes and deepen their understanding of others. It might also encourage children to try some foods which they might not have done otherwise!

Full of historical details and the wonderful legends which have developed about some of these foods, ‘Tasty Tales’ is a great example of the stories non-fiction books tell us!

Tasty Tales: Facts and Fables about our Favourite Foods

Anna Lena Feunekes

UCLan ISBN: 978-1915235923

Author, Anna Lena Feunekes, shared this video with us for NNFN2024.

A Story of the Seasons

‘A Story of the Seasons’ is another beautifully produced collaboration from Nosy Crow and the National Trust. Lettering capturing elements of the changing seasons surrounded by creatures, birds, insects and flowers stands out against the matt cream background of the cover, instantly tempting the reader inside whilst attention to detail - such as a purple ribbon bookmark and the green edging of the pages - all add to the special feel of the book, making it a gift to treasure!

The content of the book is just as well presented and engaging. The introduction explains that the book looks at the changing nature of eight habitats through the seasons of the year, exploring the life cycles and habits of the creatures who live there. What follows is a real celebration of the natural world with the enthusiasm of the author encouraging readers to pause, enjoy and explore nature around them. Accessible sections of text offer facts and clearly written explanations with headings and side headings, guiding the reader and helping them to locate information.

The book is bursting with information, but also offers plenty of inspiration, encouraging active engagement with nature- noticing the first signs of spring, looking for different birds on an estuary, enjoying the park in winter. There are also historical details, references to poetry and folklore- all of which offers an enriching reading experience for all ages to enjoy, all complemented by beautiful illustrations. This is a book for families to share throughout the year- a book which will develop family traditions for experiencing and enjoying the wonders of nature.

A Story of the Seasons

Anna Wilson, illustrated by Carilina Rabei

National Trust and Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805130031

Jed Greenleaf

It is the reign of Queen Jane III and the Guild of Iron, led by Cromwell, helps her rule the kingdom of Albion. Although the six magickal guilds compete for this role every year, it has been a long time since Fire or Iron have been in charge.

When orphan Jed finds himself taken in by the crumbling Guild of Leaf, his extraordinary abilities allow for the possibility of change. However, things are not as they should be and Jed soon finds himself caught up in a world of intrigue where he needs to save his new guild family and fight for change.

‘Jed Greenleaf’ is a completely engaging story, enhanced throughout by wonderfully atmospheric illustrations by David Wyatt. I loved everything about it, from its alternative historical setting to its appealing characters. Kieran Larwood’s stories just get better and better.

Set at a time when Lady Jane Grey succeeded in inheriting the throne from Edward VI and her descendants now rule Albion, the book is full of historical details and references to historical figures which add much to the setting of the story, giving a realism which acts as a contrast to the magickal abilities of those in the Guilds and creates a perfect backdrop to this intricate and brilliantly imagined world.

Jed is such a fabulous character. Sickly and bullied by those around him, he is full of self-doubt, worried about his abilities and his newfound role as part of a Guild which is far from flourishing. Yet, as the story progresses, his courage and determination lead him to achieve things he would never have thought possible, overturning corruption and righting wrongs along the way. Despite all the cruelty he has experienced, Jed shows unfailing kindness and loyalty to those he cares for, an instinctive sense of right and wrong guiding him in the choices he makes.

There is a rich feeling of folklore, combined with a love of the natural world running through the story and although it looks as if this is a self-contained story, it would be such as shame not to revisit Jed and his friends in another adventure. This is a must-read, perfect for sharing as a class or bedtime story!

Jed Greenleaf

Kieran Larwood, illustrated by David Wyatt

Faber ISBN: 978-0571392049

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

Santa’s Journey/ Twelve Days of Kindness

This simple rhyming story follows Father Christmas as he makes his way across the skies to deliver his gifts on Christmas Eve. Each verse is accompanied by a lovely layered pop-up scene to enjoy and discuss.

The thick card pages are durable and offer protection to the more fragile scenes which pop-up from the page as the book is opened, giving depth to each picture and each of the five scenes is richly coloured.

Perfect for sharing and enjoying as a family, older children may well be tempted to have a go at creating their own pop-up scene or a card inspired by these pictures. Sure to become a festive favourite!

Santa’s Journey

Patricia Hegarty, illustrated by Wazza Pink

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1838916534

Brightly coloured illustrations show a family spreading festive cheer as they perform twelve simple acts of kindness in the days before Christmas. Each spread has a simple sentence stating what they did on that day, with the picture setting the scene. It clearly shows how little things we can do for others can mean so much - and without the need for spending lots of money. This is all about spending time with others, helping out, being together and showing appreciation for the things which others do for us. Even the cat gets a treat!

A lovely treat to curl up and share!

Twelve Days of Kindness

Sophie Beer

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1838916800

The Christmas Tree Mouse

The Christmas Tree Mouse is on a mission- to help Santa on his busiest night of the year. And when she notices that baby Ola has been left the wrong present, the Christmas Tree Mouse swings into action, using all her special equipment to get the job done, no matter what cat-astrophe might arise!

Perfect for the festive season, ‘The Christmas Tree Mouse’ is the very thing for snuggling down and sharing in the run up to Christmas. Taking inspiration from the mouse mentioned in the poem by Clement Clarke Moore, Joseph Coelho has created a story explaining the important role of the Christmas Tree Mouse and how she is rewarded in the end!

The Christmas Tree Mouse is an endearing, charming character who takes their duties very seriously. There are many little details to chuckle over and enjoy - I love the idea that Santa squeezes through the letter box! The illustrations are gorgeous with plenty to notice, including the wonderful range of expressions on the Christmas Tree Mouse’s face as she goes about her work, faces and overcomes the danger posed by the household cat! The use of warm Christmas lights against the velvety dark of the night creates a really Christmassy atmosphere, adding to the enjoyment of this cosy tale.

Alongside the milk, mince pies and carrots, families are sure to start leaving a lump of cheese for the Christmas Tree Mouse!

The Christmas Tree Mouse

Joseph Coelho, illustrated by Farah Shah

Puffin ISBN: 978-0241585481

At Home in a Book

In ‘At Home in a Book’, Lauren O’Hara introduces readers to nine classic tales through a combination of illustration and extracts. This is the sort of book which I would have loved as a child- one which can be explored in different ways, lingered over and enjoyed again and again.

Each book is introduced with an extract, followed by a cross section picture of the home central to that story. This is followed by additional information about characters and other details. Perfect for tempting children to explore one (or more) of these classic books, each section offers a taste of the story without spoiling it and allowing readers to have some understanding of the story before diving in.

But this is also a book to inspire the imagination and develop new stories. Gazing into the cottage Heidi shares with her grandfather, exploring below deck on the Jolly Roger or peeking into 221B Baker Street allows readers to engage with the stories in a different way, particularly if they are already familiar with them. They may question Lauren O’Hara’s interpretation of some of these homes or nod happily in agreement as her vision matches their own. It might inspire some to try capturing other favourite books in the same way- perhaps ‘Mole End’, 32, Windsor Gardens or the Buckets’ home.

The book also offers a world of nostalgia for adults looking back at some of their childhood treasures. It would make a wonderful gift for any booklover- old or young- as well as a lovely addition to libraries.

At Home in a Book

Lauren O’Hara

Puffin ISBN: 978-0241665794

Lockett and Wilde’s Dreadfully Haunting Mysteries: The Ghosts of the Manor

Matilda Lockett has what some might consider an unusual life. Whilst her aunt performs as Signora Valentina, a professional spirit medium, Matilda plays the part of Poor Dead Edna, convincing audiences of her aunt’s abilities. However, when her aunt is asked to visit Beauchamp Manor and rid it of the ghost which is haunting it, Matilda discovers that she really can see ghosts and soon becomes friends with Edgar Wilde, a ghost boy. Working together, they are able to solve the very real mystery of what is actually happening at the manor.

With Lucy Strange writing excellent stories and Pam Smy creating the most fabulous pictures, ‘The Ghosts at the Manor’ was sure to be a book which I would enjoy- and I loved it! The story offers an engaging mystery with a slightly spooky twist and lots of friendship, making it a wonderful read. Matilda and Edgar are lovely characters, who show what teamwork can do and whose partnership is sure to offer plenty more satisfying adventures to come. There are twists and secrets, ghosts and jewels, fakes and fortunes in this story, but at it’s heart is Matilda’s warm relationship with her aunt and ‘Uncle’ Barnabus and her new found friendship with Edgar.

The joy of the story is perfectly captured by Pam Smy’s lovely illustrations. These black and white images with touches of blue add a slightly eerie atmosphere, perfectly in keeping with the gently spooky nature of the story. Children are going to love reading about Matilda and Edgar and will clamour for more!

Lockett and Wilde’s Dreadfully Haunting Mysteries: The Ghosts at the Manor

Lucy Strange and Pam Smy

Walker ISBN: 978-1529516005

Midnight Treasure

Baron Ambrus is a powerful vampir, who lives in luxury in the House of Gold. With him live two orphans, Tibor, a werwolf and Rosa, a vampir who the Baron transformed into a dog to act as Tibor’s companion. When a powerful wizard, Kira Halim, visits them, bringing a magical statue, Tibor is told that he must take go on a quest to find the Midnight Treasure…

A new novel from Piers Today is always something to look forward to - and ‘Midnight Treasure’ is an incredible fantasy, perfect for this (or any!) time of year! Completely enthralling, I read this in one sitting, unable to drag myself away from Tibor and his world.

Gripping from the outset, the plot romps along at a pleasing pace, perfectly balancing world building with action and tension. Beautifully imagined and rich in description, the story builds towards a satisfying conclusion which still leaves plenty of potential for future books. Although pitched at a 9+ audience, this is a story which will be enjoyed by older children (and adults!) who will revel in the level of detail of this breath-taking world.

Tibor is such an engaging character, full of longing for the family he has never known and seeking to find his place in the world. Constantly supported by Rosa with whom he shares a deep bond, he gains the friendship and trust of other characters along the way, most notably Oldest, Slightly and Smallest, fierce warriors, and Bear Man and the tree bears.

It is really hard to review this book without giving too much away and spoiling it for others who have the joy of reading it yet to come. This is a world readers will long to return to, and I, for one, cannot wait for Tibor and Rosa’s next adventure.

Midnight Treasure

Piers Torday

Quercus ISBN: 978-1786541420