The Plesiosaur’s Neck

We made our way through many dinosaur books when my son was little, but ‘The Plesiosaur’s Neck’ manages to offer a fresh approach to this much loved subject. The book introduces Poppy the Plesiosaur and seeks to explain the purpose of her extremely long neck. Accompanied by Alfie Ammonite and Bella Belemnite who tell plenty of jokes, the rhyming narrative text explores lots of scientific theories whilst concluding that no one is really sure.

Fact boxes are found on each page, giving additional information. It is a fascinating read with plenty of appealing illustrations by Adam Larkum which really develop the personality of each creature. A Spotter’s guide at the end of the book encourages the reader to focus on each spread, locating Cretaceous creatures. A useful glossary at the end explains many of the technical terms included in a child friendly manner.

Perfect for sharing with little ones, dinosaur enthusiasts or anyone who enjoys exploring scientific theories, ‘The Plesiosaur’s Neck’ is an essential addition to any collection of dinosaur books.

The Plesiosaur’s Neck

Dr Adam S Smith and Jonathan Emmett, illustrated by Adam Larkum

UCLan Publishing ISBN: 978-1912979424

The Weather Weaver

Stella is excited to be returning to Shetland for the summer to stay with her Grandpa, even though her parents are leaving her whilst they work. But nothing is as she remembers. Her Gran’s death has changed her grandfather and there is little for her to do. However, everything changes when she meets Tamar, an old lady who lives on the island because Tamar is a weather weaver. Having caught her own cloud, Stella begins to learn this ancient craft, but when the Harken, a sea witch, threatens the island, Stella finds out what being a weather weaver really means.

Wonderfully atmospheric, ‘The Weather Weaver’ is a fabulous adventure, perfect for reading aloud and exploring in depth. The story builds at a pleasing pace, with wonderful descriptions of a place full of myth and magic and the beauty of nature. Stones absorb all sorts of things…our connection to the world around us is beautifully celebrated, reminding us to pause, pay attention- and enjoy.

Stella is a great character, fallible and flawed, but warm, determined and full of family love. Her little cloud, Nimbus, is a true delight- bursting with personality and charm- who wouldn’t want a friend like that? When the final conflict comes, both find reserves of courage and perseverance, working together to keep danger at bay. Stella is also open to understanding that things are not always as they first appear, prepared to give second chances and listen to others, even when others are not.

The story also deals sensitively with grief and loss, showing her Grandpa’s pain and how he tries to cope with this and protect his loved ones.

‘The Weather Weaver’ is an immersive read, with much to recommend it. I hope there will be more stories about Stella and Nimbus to come.

The Weather Weaver Tamsin Mori

UCLan Publishing ISBN: 978-1912979455