Dear Earth

Beautiful in both illustration and words, ‘Dear Earth’ explores our planet and all its wonders.

Tessa’s grandfather was an explorer and loves to share stories of his adventures with his granddaughter. Inspired by his memories, Tessa decides to write a letter to the Earth and what follows is a celebration of all the beauties and wonders of this planet. It is a real love letter, sharing her passion for the Earth as she believes that if enough people share the message, it will have a better future.

Through Tessa’s imagination and the stunning illustrations by Clara Anganuzzi, the reader experiences the diverse and glorious creatures of our planet and all the places in which they live. She blows bubbles with whales, kisses butterflies and screeches with the monkeys and birds of the rain forests. But she also reminds us that the world is a fragile place, easily hurt by people, often unintentionally, and needs love and care to flourish.

At the end of the book, there are pages offering more information about environmental issues and practical suggestions for things people can do to help.

Once we had read and enjoyed the story, each of my class wrote a letter to the Earth which will be displayed hanging from our ‘book balloon’. This has been painted to look like the cover of the book by the children with their drawings of the creatures and Tessa added. Pictures of this will be posted as soon as it’s finished.

‘Dear Earth’ is a stunning book about how special and fragile our planet is. Every class needs a copy!

Dear Earth

Isabel Otter, illustrated by Clara Anganuzzi

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1848579415

The Eye of the North

Emmeline is convinced her life is in danger. Clutching her satchel full of things to keep her alive, she makes her way through life, ready for anything! One breakfast time, she receives a letter from her parents which changes everything.

Put on a ship to sail to Paris where she would find safety, Emmeline meets a young boy called Thing, a scruffy stowaway, and an unlikely friendship develops between them. Chased by the criminals who kidnapped her parents, Emmeline is caught and taken to a villainous scientist, who is determined to summon an ancient creature from the icy depths of the north...

Desperate to save his new friend, Thing seeks help from a secret organisation and sets off in pursuit. 

What follows is an amazing story, combining the adventures of Emmeline and Thing as the one races to save the other. Fast paced and exciting, the book is peppered with fantastic characters and magical creatures, making this an enchanting read. 

Thing is a wonderful character. Haunted by his past, he is loyal and resourceful- a perfect companion for Emmeline, whose upbringing and experiences have made her more reserved and cautious. Rich, atmospheric language describes the settings beautifully and Emmeline's world comes vividly to life. With dangers at every turn, this will appeal to those who love fantasy and adventure.

The Eye of the North       Sinead O'Hart

Little Tiger     ISBN: 978-1847159410

I Really Really Need a Wee

Bush Baby is having a wee emergency. At the jiggly stage of desperation, she tries hard to think of things to take her mind off the subject, but to no avail. She searches for somewhere discrete to relieve herself, but there is nowhere to go…What is she to do?

What a delightful book! Bush Baby’s dilemma is one which many little (and not-so-little!) ones will recognise and empathise with. It is perfect for encouraging discussions about that last trip to the loo before going out, reminding children of Bush Baby’s troubles! Although I have referred to Bush Baby as ‘she’, gender is never specified, making it easy for any child to relate to her fate!

The rhyming text is bouncy and full of energy as poor Bush Baby wriggles and jiggles, trying to contain the urge as it grows stronger. Duncan Beedie has done an amazing job of capturing both the facial and bodily expressions of desperation, managing to make Bush Baby completely adorable as well as uncomfortable!

Here on the Bookshellf, we are huge fans of both members of this dream team’s work and ‘I Really Really Need a Wee’ combines their talents perfectly. I can see this becoming a firm favourite both at home and in schools up and down the country! Fabulous fun!

‘I Really Really Need a Wee’ is a gorgeous book, beautifully illustrated and bursting with laughs!

I Really Really Need a Wee

Karl Newson, illustrated by Duncan Beedie

Little Tiger Books ISBN: 978-1788817851

How to Be a Human

When Star Boy finds himself stranded on Earth, he takes shelter in the basement of a school boiler room. Intrigued by being able to actually observe human behaviour, he focuses on two in particular- Wes, who used to be home schooled, and Kiki, recently friendless after losing her place with the cool kids. As his curiosity grows, he becomes bolder and becomes part of their lives. Together, they learn what it really means to be human.

‘How to be a Human’ is an excellent read, offering humour and wisdom in equal measure! Both Kiki and Wes, like many other children, are struggling with life at secondary school. Initially, Kiki loved the change, swept up by the ‘cool’ group, she abandoned her primary school friends and found herself doing things to fit in rather than be herself. When a social gaff at a party leaves her on the outside, she experiences life on the receiving end of this group- a life Wes is used to. Having previously been home schooled, Wes is coping with his father’s withdrawal from life since his mother left them. Although loving, his dad is not much good at the practical, everyday things and Wes has become a target for bullies. When they meet Star Boy, Wes and Kiki come to realise that they have far more in common than they would ever have thought and knowing Star Boy changes their lives for the better.

As Star Boy- or Stan Boyd as the children come to call him- explores what it means to be human, he questions the behaviour he sees. Why do some people sneer? Do they enjoy being horrible? Stan also reminds us of the simple pleasures in life- the little every day joys which get lost to us. The story brilliantly exposes how the people we sometimes think are our friends are not our real friends and that true humanity can be found in unexpected places. This is such a heart-warming, beautiful book which will no doubt offer comfort and support to those struggling with or worrying about transition.

Celebrating friendship and loyalty, ‘How to be a Human’ is a thoroughly enjoyable read, full of warmth and wisdom. Can’t wait for the next one!

How to be a Human Karen McCombie

Little Tiger ISBN: 978- 1788951098

The House of Hidden Wonders

Zinnie lives with her sisters in Edinburgh’s murky underworld. Having experienced life in an orphanage, she is determined to keep them together and free from institutions, doing whatever she can to feed them. One way she has found of earning money is working for Mr Conan Doyle who pays her to do jobs for him. When he asks her to observe a seance, Zinnie finds herself caught up in a mystery involving bodies with missing ears, ghosts and the mysterious House of Hidden Wonders and its sinister owner, MacDuff.

This is such a fabulous read. Richly atmospheric, Victorian Edinburgh is the perfect setting for the story and Sharon Gosling has obviously invested a great deal of time researching locations such as Mary King’s Close to add colour and detail to the story. Her historical note at the back of the book adds further information about this and other details included. Similarly, the inclusion of real historical figures, Arthur Conan Doyle and Dr Jex-Blake, add to the interest and appeal. Hints at Conan Doyle’s writing might lead children to discover some of his stories and the struggles faced by Dr Jex-Blake as a female doctor could start discussions about the hardships women have had to overcome through the years. Lady Sarah’s inspirational attitude to life and her insatiable attitude for adventure and exploration are wonderful and again, the attitudes to women and their abilities are exposed through the reactions of some of the other characters towards her.

Zinnie is a fabulous character; fiercely loyal and protective of Nell and Sadie, the ‘sisters’ she has adopted from the streets, her tenacity and determination to give them security is truly touching. Sadie and Nell are equally well developed character. Sadie’s flair with herbs and natural remedies clearly shows how the poor could not afford medicines and how suspicion about women healers still lingered. Her desire to help and heal shine through, particularly when trying to save Nell, the youngest of this little family.

The plot is full of twists and excitement with touches of the macabre. There is so much to comment on and praise- yet this might ruin the story for others and I would hate to do that!

‘The House of Hidden Wonders’ is a brilliant read, full of mystery, action and adventure with some scary bits thrown into the mix. A must read!

The House of Hidden Wonders Sharon Gosling

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1788951906

Mort the Meek and the Ravens’ Revenge

Brutalia is ‘an island of terrifying ugliness’, ruled by the most brutal king and queen. Its people constantly fight and struggle in complete poverty whilst ravens circle overhead and the royals live in the lap of luxury. Mort isn’t like the other islanders. As the only member of Brutalia’s Pacifist Society, he is determined to live peacefully. But when he finds himself appointed Royal Executioner by the Queen, Mort’s first job is to execute Weed Millet, the baker’s son- and Mort’s best friend. Can Mort the Meek become Mort the Brute? Or can he keep his principles, save his friend…and live to see another day?

Deliciously dark and gloriously gruesome, this very tongue-in-cheek tale is just wonderful. From the chorus of joke telling ravens who chip in at the beginning of every chapter to the detailed landscape of Brutalia and its inhabitants, there is so much to entertain and be enjoyed in this story.

When his uncle, Bob the Brute, Royal Executioner of Brutalia dies just as he is about to announce the method of execution he has chosen for Weed, Mort is unwillingly elevated to the role and starts on a mission to save both his friend and himself. He is a wonderful character, nobly trying to live a peaceful life amid the chaos and casual violence surrounding him, but he also worries that he might just be a coward. Ultimately, a good heart, lots of courage and strong friendships see him through.

The story is full of wonderful characters- with some wonderful names. Ono Assunder, Body Lugger, from Dead Man’s Island, is a fantastic friend and ally. Malc Clam, the Queen’s personal bodyguard, embodies much of what is wrong with Brutalia and the Queen herself, fickle and devious, capriciously rules her kingdom with fear. Each sits perfectly in this well crafted world, brilliantly captured by George Ermos’s wonderful illustrations.

Despite its supposedly dark nature, the story bursts with humour. Mort’s twin siblings, Gosh and Gee, are model citizens of Brutalia in that they are constantly having great fun fighting and trying to involve their brother in their skirmishes. The ravens crack the most appalling jokes as they watch events unfold and Mort has to face a series of bizarre situations as he tries to navigate his way through the dangers and dilemmas of his life. A second adventure, ‘Mort the Meek The Monstrous Quest’ is on its way- and the sneak preview at the end of the first book promises that it will be every bit as enjoyable.

A fabulously funny and quirky tale, ‘Mort the Meek and the Raven’s Revenge’ is a rip-roaring read!

Mort the Meek and the Raven’s Revenge

Rachel Delahaye, illustrated by George Ermos

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1788953146

The Missing Bookshop

Milly never misses a story time at Minty's Bookshop. The owner, Mrs Minty, might be a bit creaky, but she knows about every book in the world and can always find something for Milly to read. Like Mrs Minty, the bookshop is showing signs of age and Milly worries that it might have to shut. To her horror, she arrives one day to find Minty's Bookshop closed and soon it is for sale. But Milly comes up with a plan. Can she save the bookshop?

This is a delightful story about the importance of stories – and the shops that sell them. The value of Mrs Minty and her shop to the local community who no doubt take her for granted until faced with her loss reminds us all of the independent bookshops we all know and love and the booksellers whose invaluable advice keeps us returning- something to discuss with children in terms of local libraries as well as bookshops!. Milly is a sweet little girl with a warm caring nature who is a pleasure to read about.

Full of lovely colour illustrations, 'The Missing Bookshop' is a heart warming story, perfect for reading aloud and sharing.

The Missing Bookshop Katie Clapham, illustrated by Kirsti Beautyman

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1788950428

Agent Zaiba Investigates: The Missing Diamonds

Zaiba is enjoying her cousin, Samirah’s Mehndi party at The Royal Star Hotel with her family and friends around her. She is also enjoying the opportunity to hone her detecting skills with the help of her little brother, Ali and her best friend, Poppy. Things get even more exciting when a mystery celebrity arrives at the hotel and the trio decide to use their sleuthing skills to uncover their identity. When the celebrity’s dog and diamonds go missing, there is real detecting to be done…

Set against the background of the traditions of the Mehndi party, this is an excellent detective story with plenty of colour and mystery. The children are a wonderful bunch, each bringing their strengths to the detecting team. Zaiba is a brave, determined and kind child whose ambition is to be like Eden Lockett, her favourite fictional detective, and live up to the memory of her Ammi- her mother- whose handwritten annotations to the stories make Zaiba feel connected to her. Ali is bright and full of life and Poppy bubbles with fun and enthusiasm.

The story is littered with clues to follow, making it fun to read and perfect those who love a mystery. A secret staircase, a labyrinth, overheard conversations… all lead to our detectives solving the mystery- and still being able to enjoy the party! It’s a fabulous read with plenty of lovely illustrations throughout.

‘Agent Zaiba Investigates: The Missing Diamonds’ is a vibrant, fun read, full of family love and friendship as well as offering a good mystery to solve. Can’t wait to read her next adventure!

Agent Zaiba Investigates: The Missing Diamonds

Annabelle Sami, illustrated by Daniela Sosa

Stripes ISBN: 978-1788952064