A spine-chilling middle-grade novel that mixes humour with elements of horror, perfect for readers aged 9+ (although note the setting is Year 7). The A spine-chilling middle-grade novel that mixes humour with elements of horror, perfect for readers aged 9+ (although note the setting is Year 7). The story follows four students—Hallie, Angelo, Naira, and Gus—who are stuck in a Saturday detention at their school, only to find themselves entangled in a terrifying mystery. What begins as a frustrating punishment quickly escalates into a nightmarish adventure when their teacher is mysteriously dragged underground, and the school’s creepy caretakers start acting suspiciously.
Killick blends suspense with witty banter, creating characters that are relatable and endearing, even as they face terrifying challenges. The group must navigate eerie settings and battle unseen horrors, all while learning to work together despite their differences. The tension is perfectly balanced with humour, making the novel engaging without overwhelming younger readers.
There's fine character growth here, as the children confront both external threats and their internal struggles. The creepy atmosphere, cliffhanger chapter endings, and clever twists keep readers hooked until the end. For those much older, think Goonies - meets - Breakfast Club - meets - Arachnophobia. I'll be reading all the others in the series. ...more
One of the earliest touch-and-feel books feels incredibly dated now but I like it for the fact that it was a text created by Kundhardt to bring readinOne of the earliest touch-and-feel books feels incredibly dated now but I like it for the fact that it was a text created by Kundhardt to bring reading experiences closer to the very young. Published in the 30s, Kundhardt was looking for something to engage her infant daughter in reading and since these types of books are still going strong today, it could be argued that she found an idea which worked well.
Merged review:
One of the earliest touch-and-feel books feels incredibly dated now but I like it for the fact that it was a text created by Kundhardt to bring reading experiences closer to the very young. Published in the 30s, Kundhardt was looking for something to engage her infant daughter in reading and since these types of books are still going strong today, it could be argued that she found an idea which worked well....more
The story follows Mike, accompanied by his trusty dog Bowow, as they embark on an unexpected journey triggered by a peculiar party invitation. Amidst The story follows Mike, accompanied by his trusty dog Bowow, as they embark on an unexpected journey triggered by a peculiar party invitation. Amidst the scorching heat of the Philippines and the mesmerizing landscapes of the Chocolate Hills, a deep chasm opens up, leading Mike and Bowow into a world of mystery and enchantment...and London.
As Mike plunges into the unknown, he finds himself awakening in the home of a girl named Kaneisha, situated in bustling London. Both Mike and Kaneisha have received the same cryptic invitation, prompting them to delve further into the unknown. Together, they set off on a surreal and dreamlike escapade, venturing through chimneys and encountering a host of whimsical characters along the way.
The book's distinctive illustrations, rendered in vibrant full colour, add a delightful touch of humour and visual interest to the story. The accessible layout and shorter chapters make it an ideal choice for newly independent readers, allowing them to immerse themselves in the adventure at their own pace.
A charming and engaging book invites valuable lessons about friendship and open-mindedness. A really beautiful and engaging first chapter book....more
In the delightful children's book, readers are treated to a satirical tale that explores themes of capitalism, greed, and poverty. Set against the bacIn the delightful children's book, readers are treated to a satirical tale that explores themes of capitalism, greed, and poverty. Set against the backdrop of a disrupted normal life, the story follows a group of cats and the hungry rats they encounter, teaching readers valuable lessons about selfishness and the consequences of taking more than what is needed.
As the humans retreat into their homes, the cats devise a cunning plan to steal all the food they can, disregarding the plight of the poor rats and mice outside. However, their scheme is soon foiled, prompting the starving rodents to take matters into their paws. This classic cat-and-mouse tale unfolds with humour and colourful illustrations, capturing the attention of readers young and old.
The illustrations play a significant role in bringing the story to life, providing vivid detail and capturing the subtle humour in every scene. From the cats lounging on their humans' laps to the dramatic tones of black, grey, and red throughout, the artwork adds depth to the narrative, inviting readers to explore the welcome, busy visuals on each page.
"The Cats Who Wanted More" serves as a political satire that remains relevant today, introducing children to important concepts such as capitalism and poverty. The book is not only a great read-aloud for children, but also an invitation for readers to closely too. A little furry bundle of joy. ...more
A delightful collection of stories originally published in Basque and translated into Spanish before reaching English readers.
The heart of the book liA delightful collection of stories originally published in Basque and translated into Spanish before reaching English readers.
The heart of the book lies in its four enchanting tales centred around Shola, an endearing and pompous yet lovable dog, and her companion Señor Grogó. Shola exhibits a rather precocious nature that captures the essence of small dogs with grandiose ideas.
The book's charm is further enhanced by Mikel Valverde's illustrations. Valverde's subtle palette and attention to detail complement Atxaga's storytelling, bringing the characters and their escapades to cartoonish life. Through Shola's humorous and touching escapades, Atxaga explores themes of self-discovery, friendship, and the inherent desire to be understood. I thoroughly enjoyed spending time with Shola. ...more
Illustrated by Hanna Luechtefeld and adapted by Mariah Marsden, offers a sweet, visual rendition of Burnett's children's book. With its faithful adherIllustrated by Hanna Luechtefeld and adapted by Mariah Marsden, offers a sweet, visual rendition of Burnett's children's book. With its faithful adherence to the original plot, this graphic novel proves to be a charming addition to the classic tale.
Luechtefeld's artwork is enchanting, drawing readers into the story with her whimsical style and generous use of colour. In the beginning, when Mary is introduced, subdued and gloomy colours reflect her sombre state. However, as she discovers the key to the secret garden, the colours brighten, mirroring her growth and sense of wonder.
Marsden's adaptation maintains the essence of Burnett's narrative, as it follows young Mary's journey from a troubled past to a transformative present. Although Marsden omits certain details such as Mary's colonialist background and her parents' deaths, she explains these choices in a concluding note, emphasizing the intention to address historical contexts responsibly.
Overall, it serves as a fine introduction for young readers to the novel and makes it more accessible to younger readers. Y2+ ...more
A captivating and imaginative book that will enchant young readers with its humorous storyline and cast; shorter books for children are also to be welA captivating and imaginative book that will enchant young readers with its humorous storyline and cast; shorter books for children are also to be welcome. Balen, known for her success with books for older children, demonstrates her versatility as she ventures into writing for younger readers with a brisk and engaging pace.
The story revolves around Clem, a budding young archaeologist, and her friends Ash and Zara, who spend their weekends combing the banks of the Thames as mudlarks. Their treasure-hunting adventures take a fantastical turn when Clem discovers a mysterious grey ring and brings it home. Unbeknownst to her, this triggers a series of extraordinary storms that wreak havoc along the tideline, forcing residents to evacuate their homes.
What follows is a fantastical underwater adventure as Clem and her friends embark on a race against time to restore the magical grey ring to the creature within the Thames who searches for it. Balen's vivid and highly-imagined fantasy world unfolds underwater, where the buildings bear an eerie resemblance to those above water but show signs of decay.
Balen's writing shines through with a simple poeticism. The book carries a gentle moral message about protecting the environment, a timely and important topic. Links to mudlarking echo Katya's previous novel for older readers, October, October.
The book's appeal is further enhanced by Rachael Dean's delightful illustrations, which perfectly capture the vividly imagined underwater world created by Balen. The combination of short, suspenseful chapters and engaging artwork makes The Thames and Tide Club accessible and enjoyable, even for less confident readers. Those I have handed it to have lapped it up. Sorry. Great for newly independent readers and established ones too....more
Galvin's second outing is another historical fiction novel this time transporting us to Victorian Brighton. Set against the backdrop of the arrival ofGalvin's second outing is another historical fiction novel this time transporting us to Victorian Brighton. Set against the backdrop of the arrival of a giant octopus at the seafront aquarium, the story follows 12-year-old Vinnie, who finds herself staying with her aunt in Brighton while her mother attends to business in Paris. Having already enjoyed Darwin's Dragons, I was really impressed to find that I enjoyed this second outing even more.
Beyond the captivating setting, the novel sheds light on the harsh working conditions of industrial Victorian Britain, particularly regarding child labour. The author highlights the disparity between the privileged and the less fortunate. At its core, the book celebrates the power of friendship through the bond between Vinnie, Charlie, and Temitayo. Each character is endearing in their resourcefulness, loyalty, and unwavering sense of justice. Temitayo's determination to forge her own path and reject the predetermined future set by others adds an empowering element to the narrative.
The incredible octopus, Ghost, serves as a central character, revealing its astonishing capabilities and emotional depth: it helped that I had read several octopus non-fiction texts prior to this. I felt like I already knew Ghost. The bond between Vinnie and Ghost is particularly heartwarming, drawing readers even closer to this fascinating animal.
A carefully plotted novel that combines historical accuracy, captivating storytelling, and memorable characters. Vivid descriptions and attention to detail create an immersive reading experience that both educates and entertains. Highly recommended KS2+ ...more
As Darwin and Covington explore the Galapagos Islands, a fierce storm separates them. Covington finds himself stranded on Narborough Island, a treacheAs Darwin and Covington explore the Galapagos Islands, a fierce storm separates them. Covington finds himself stranded on Narborough Island, a treacherous place with an impending volcanic eruption. Without hope of rescue, he must navigate the island's challenges. Unexpectedly, a small green lizard becomes his unlikely ally, guiding him to enigmatic eggs and protecting him from a monstrous dragon creature. Galvin weaves a spellbinding narrative, imagining a thrilling period of absence in Darwin's journals and exploring the wonders and responsibilities of an uncharted world.
Lindsay Galvin's writing style is wonderful, drawing readers into Syms Covington's world from his early days as a cabin boy to his awe-inspiring survival journey. The language is vivid and evocative, immersing readers in the sights, sounds, and perils of the Galapagos Islands. The novel delves into the importance of curiosity, scientific exploration, and the pursuit of knowledge and highlights the fragile balance of ecosystems and the need for responsible stewardship of our planet.
A captivating blend of historical adventure, fantastical creatures, and thought-provoking themes. KS2+...more
From fertilisation through to pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and parenting across all sorts of mammals, Cathy Evans and Bia Melo have produced a highFrom fertilisation through to pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and parenting across all sorts of mammals, Cathy Evans and Bia Melo have produced a highly accessible and enjoyable information book. Each spread has almost child-like drawings illustrating each part of the process and Evans' language means that complex ideas (which aren't really complex but we seem to want to avoid them in the UK) are easy to grasp. I read this with both my boys (8&10) in a few sittings and it just made clear what had been outside their grasp. It's a smashing addition to a classroom and would work well in KS1/2+ ...more
This delightful book goes beyond counting and introduces young readers to the primary colours and the art of colour mixing.
The story begins with a moThis delightful book goes beyond counting and introduces young readers to the primary colours and the art of colour mixing.
The story begins with a mother cat and her ten adorable kittens on the opening page. As the mother cat falls into a deep slumber, her mischievous little ones seize the opportunity to have some playful adventures of their own. Their misadventures commence when they stumble upon three cans of paint: one red, one yellow, and one blue.
With mischief in their hearts, they manage to pry open the lids and chaos ensues as they splatter themselves, the floor, and everything around them with red, then yellow, and finally blue splotches. Their playful escapades turn their surroundings into a vibrant playground where they experiment with mixing the three primary colours, resulting in mesmerizing shades of orange and green. In the end, the mother cat awakens from her blissful slumber only to discover the colourful mess and decides it's time for her mischievous little ones to have a thorough bath. Great fun.
An enthralling adventure that combines Blakeian mythology, magic, and the power of imagination.
Adam, a young, Muslim boy living in an alternative, dysAn enthralling adventure that combines Blakeian mythology, magic, and the power of imagination.
Adam, a young, Muslim boy living in an alternative, dystopian London, encounters a remarkable being that takes the form of a Tyger. Together with his friend Zadie, they embark on a journey that tests their courage and harnesses the power of their imaginations in order to help it escape back to its own realm. As they confront evil, oppressive forces threatening their world, they discover the importance of staying true to oneself and challenging societal darkness.
Tyger explores essential themes such as societal attitudes towards others, inclusion and exclusion, and the preservation of the natural world - many of these themes are purposefully echoing those in Blake's 'Songs of Innocence and Experience'. The book encourages readers to recognize the power of imagination and emphasizes the significance of thought, reason, and empathy in shaping a better society.
The illustrations by Dave McKean, almost ethereal in nature, add depth and visual appeal and generously pattern many of the book's pages; echoing the narrative's energy.
Tyger is a thought-provoking and spiritually rich book that will captivate confident readers who enjoy delving into complex narratives. It is a story that is multi-layered and it's clear that repeated readings and sharing will help reveal richer secrets planted beneath the surface of the text....more
Paradise Sands: A Story of Enchantment is a captivating and enigmatic picturebook. Written and illustrated by Pinfold, this tale takes readers on a joParadise Sands: A Story of Enchantment is a captivating and enigmatic picturebook. Written and illustrated by Pinfold, this tale takes readers on a journey through a mysterious realm filled with temptation and the power of sibling love.
The story centres around a young girl and her three brothers who stumble upon a ghostly hotel alluded to as Teller's Hollow. As the brothers succumb to the allure of its offerings, they fall under the spell of the enigmatic Teller and transform into dolphins. The sister, determined to save her brothers, strikes a deal with the Teller, promising not to partake in any temptations for three days. Pinfold weaves a modern fairy tale of suspense and ambiguity, leaving readers with more questions than answers: this is a good thing.
Pinfold's writing style is sparse yet evocative, allowing readers to engage their imaginations and draw their own interpretations from the story. The narrative flows seamlessly, and the use of a rhyming introduction adds a touch of whimsy to the book whilst also reinforcing that sense of folktale. Hyer-realistic illustrations are rich in symbolism and magical realism inviting readers to implicitly, perhaps, consider themes of desire, sacrifice, and the manipulation of one's noble inclinations. The use of a subdued colour palette, reminiscent of a sun-bleached and faded world, adds a sense of desolation and mystery.
This picture book is best suited for older readers who can appreciate its depth and nuance. It invites multiple readings, with each encounter unearthing new layers of meaning and visual imagery....more
Created in association with the Natural History Museum, the story retells the imagined journey of the blue whale whose skeleton is on display. With a Created in association with the Natural History Museum, the story retells the imagined journey of the blue whale whose skeleton is on display. With a text that is fictional but with a good dram of information placed within it too, Chamberlain's illustrations are what weave the whole thing together. From maps of the routes Hope and her mother take to images of a young boy, our narrator, imagining some of the things the whale will encounter, this is a lovely, gentle picturebook. ...more
Ruth Brown takes her young readers for a walk through the countryside across a day with this delightful simple riddle-and-look book. Each double-page Ruth Brown takes her young readers for a walk through the countryside across a day with this delightful simple riddle-and-look book. Each double-page spread provides the clue to guide the search of the accompanying image; turn the page and the answer is there along with the next clue, and puzzle. The reader is encouraged to really scrutinise the pictures. In so doing they will learn how brilliantly animals are able to camouflage themselves – and, maybe, be inspired to explore the world around them with new eyes; to play eye spy for real.
A book that could be shared – parent and child, teacher and group – or just provide the opportunity for personal exploration. The rich visual experience that encourages the viewer to not just look for the hidden but to be aware of the surroundings combines with a simple direct text describing the hidden animal ending with a rhyme. Well produced too and a delightful introduction to hidden nature....more
Wolf is fed up with finding himself in books where he's stereotyped as fearsome and dangerous. Where can he find a narrative that's different? Well, iWolf is fed up with finding himself in books where he's stereotyped as fearsome and dangerous. Where can he find a narrative that's different? Well, it takes a librarian to show him that such stories can be challenged and rewritten and perhaps he's the very one to do so.
Written in rhyming couplets throughout and will deliciously colourful illustrations by Mantle, this is a story that not only fractures fairytales but also lends a lovely message about the dangers of stereotypes and the power that can come with rewriting your narrative.
An excellent choice for storytime for KS1/FS children and even those older. ...more
Lots of Dots is a picturebook about identity, friendship and finding a place to belong. Jaguar is lonely and Ladybird decides that they should befrienLots of Dots is a picturebook about identity, friendship and finding a place to belong. Jaguar is lonely and Ladybird decides that they should befriend them after making it clear that they both have something in common: dots! Soon though, other animals want to play too and be in their club but they don't have dots. What will this mean? Fortunately, these animals are thoughtful and inclusive and keep changing the club so everyone fits in.
With themes of acceptance, diversity, and inclusion, this is a lovely picturebook that carries a simple message with warmth and humour. A great EYFS/KS1 book for building and encouraging empathy. ...more
Inspired by Lithuanian alphabet books that she read to her so, Heck's debut sees a creative twist on traditional animal alphabets. Heck explores a divInspired by Lithuanian alphabet books that she read to her so, Heck's debut sees a creative twist on traditional animal alphabets. Heck explores a diverse range of non-English languages to find unique animal names that all begin with the same letters or sounds.
The scratchboard illustrations against vibrant backdrops use contrast and texture to create a dramatic eye-popping effect. Additionally, each illustrated page cleverly incorporates the letter it represents, often hidden in the animal or an object it holds on to - a lovely exploratory element for the reader. The book includes links to hear the animal names spoken by native or fluent speakers, and an index arranges the languages alphabetically for easy reference. While the global scope of this project highlights our interconnectedness, further cultural or geographic context could deepen children's understanding.
Finally, a QR code at the back of the book allows you to listen to all the words spoken aloud by native or fluent speakers. Brilliant....more
A child and a rabbit are bonded through their friendship and care for each other in this wordless, Swedish, picturebook. A child returns from outside,A child and a rabbit are bonded through their friendship and care for each other in this wordless, Swedish, picturebook. A child returns from outside, wet and cold and the rabbit wakes up to help them get undressed and hop into the bath.
The layout of the book is simple for the most part with the action occurring on the left and the item removed displayed on the right - a lovely 'see and say' activity for that young reader. Lots of vibrant and engaging action and movement throughout. ...more
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