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.
Serial Chillers: The Witch in the Woods
Having lived in Hazard all his life, Travis is not thrilled to be going on yet another trip to the local museum. His day gets worse, however, when, with his friend, Zayd, he finds himself in a project group with his ex-friend, Danielle, and the ‘shiniest’ popular girl, Seline. The group- or rather, Seline- decides to make Blood-Eyed Mary, the subject of one of the many urban legends of Hazard, the subject of their research and head off into her lair in the heart of the woods. Here, they find that everything is not as it seems in Hazard…
Jennifer Killick really is the Queen of pre-teen scream! ‘The Witch in the Woods’ offers an edge-of-the-seat, gripping thriller which keeps the reader both guessing and jumping as the story hurtles towards its conclusion. The first in a new series, this is geared to be every bit as popular as Jennifer’s previous books (and there is no doubt that they love them!).
Creating relatable youngsters and capturing their voice is something which Jennifer Killick does really well and in ‘The Witch in the Woods’, she has surpassed herself. The story is told through the eyes of Travis. Having lived in Hazard all his life and coming from one of the town’s long resident families, he is resigned to staying there, accepting the town’s oddities, if not liking them. Having recently returned to the town, Zayd is far more curious about the place, allowing the reader to learn plenty about Hazard’s peculiar history along with him. Seline and Danielle, descended from one of the most important families in the town, are both keen to escape its confines and see more of the world.
As they face the terrors of the woods, the relationship between the four changes and they begin to see one another in a different light. What they discover in the woods sets them on course for future adventures as they seek to unravel the mysteries surrounding the history of Hazard. Engaging characters, tense jump-filled action and a spooky setting all combine to make an excellent read- and I can’t wait for the next one!
Tuck and Tina and the Lost Fortune
Tina lives in a hole in the wall of Room 123, Boone School, where she enjoys listening to lessons and watching the children enjoy their days. Wishing for a friend of her own, Tina is delighted when a new class pet, a mouse called Tuck, arrives. He’s not exactly what she had in mind and she’s sure he’s going to be nothing but trouble. However, when they discover that the school is facing closure, the two mice work together to locate the secret fortune rumoured to be hidden somewhere in the building, determined to save their home.
‘Tuck and Tina and the Lost Fortune’ is a delightful story, the first in a new series aimed at younger readers. Full of gentle humour and lovely illustrations, the adventures of these two mice are sure to engage and entertain.
Tuck is a bundle of energy, sure to cause chaos wherever he goes, the very opposite of the timid, well behaved Tina. As they work together to solve the mystery, however, Tina comes to realise that they make a good team, showing that opposites really can attract and form good friendships. Although it is easy to judge people on first appearances, getting to know them is so important.
Children are sure to enjoy spotting things which Tuck and Tina miss in their search for the lost fortune whilst giggling at their antics as they strive to save their home. I look forward to seeing what these two little mice get up to next!
Tuck and Tina and the Lost Fortune
Jess Brallier, illustrated by Jack Keely
Penguin ISBN: 978-0241704257
I Don’t Do Mountains!
Kenzie likes to read about adventures, but has no desire to take part in one. She doesn’t like strangers and barely does friends so when she finds out that she is expected to go on a hillwalking expedition with pupils from another school and Sorley Mackay, the most annoying boy in her class. Despite all her best efforts to get out of it, Kenzie finds herself heading into the hills. Their group leader Bairdy’s love of the countryside is infectious, sharing stories of their ancient myths and legends around the camp fire. But when he is missing the following morning, Kenzie and the rest of the group find themselves alone on the mountain.
Wonderfully atmospheric, ‘I Don’t Do Mountains!’ is a cracking adventure, celebrating the beauty of the Scottish mountains and the importance of cherishing it.
Told through Kenzie’s voice, readers can really engage with this quirky, book-loving girl and enjoy following her, as she develops in confidence, resilience and the ability to warm to, and makes friends with, others. Friendship, the uncertainties of transition to secondary school and making connections are all explored through the story as Kenzie, with Sorley, Mariam and Rupert have to work together, very much out of their comfort zones, to survive the wilderness- and save the wildlife.
Themes of conservation, land management and the protection of wildlife are all woven into the story, raising awareness of these issues, encouraging readers to take an interest in the joys of the natural world and perhaps inspiring them to explore the outdoors. Vividly written, the book is full of wonderful descriptions of the mountains and the intriguing folklore surrounding them. An excellent read, enhanced by beautiful drawings scattered throughout.
I Don’t Do Mountains!
Barbara Henderson, illustrated by Victoria Di Meo
Scottish Mountaineering Press ISBN: 978-1907233548
The Notorious Virtues
Honora Holtzfall- known as Nora- has always been considered her place in the succession of the most powerful family in all of Walstad. However, when her mother, the current Holtzfall Heiress, is found dead, suddenly the chance to control the wealth and the magic of the country is open to Nora’s cousins as well. Pitted against each other in the Veritaz Trials, a magical competition which decides the true heir, Nora and her cousins are stunned to learn of another contender, Lottie, the illegitimate daughter of Nora’s aunt. When she most needs to be focused on the events which will decide her future, Nora’s attention is diverted as she suspects that her mother’s death was actually murder.
‘The Notorious Virtues’ is a fabulous read. Utterly compelling, it mingles fantasy and fairy tale against a background of social unrest and revolution. Intrigue, deception, betrayal and loss have contributed to the creation of a highly dysfunctional family, living a life of untold privilege, clearly showing that money does not buy or guarantee happiness.
Events are related through the eyes of four different characters, but the story really revolves around the lives of Nora, the heiress presumptive, and Lottie, the cousin who grew up in a harsh convent with no idea of her true identity. Characterisation is one of the huge strengths of this story as the author skilfully develops each, creating genuine, flawed, interesting individuals where she might have settled for less. Both of these girls learn a great deal about themselves, the world they live in, family and trust as the story builds to its compelling- but open for the next step- climax.
Woven into the fabric of the story is ‘The Tale of the Woodcutter’, a fairy tale which explains how the Holtzfall family gained their position and how the trials came to be. The family are not only powerful in terms of wealth, but also of magic, creating huge tension between the haves and have-nots of society and leading to unrest, headed by a faction known as the Grims. However, there are shades of grey throughout the story with good and evil on both sides and a sense that equality for all might not be the true endgame. The story offers plenty to think about as well as an entertaining and engaging read.
It is a long book, but it is very well written and words are not wasted, making it very easy to escape into and enjoy! I can’t wait to see what happens next!
The Notorious Virtues
Alwyn Hamilton
Faber ISBN: 978-0571342150
The Curse of the Silvan Oaks
An ancient feud between Queen Titania and King Oberon has turned into a cruel war between the people of Silvanland and Penumbra. When the young Silvan prince, Corylus Silvanhart, is captured, the situation seems desperate. In the mortal world, the kidnap is witnessed by Oli Gill, who unwittingly travels through a portal to the magical kingdom where her arrival will change everything.
Although not a very long book, ‘The Curse of the Silvan Oaks’ is a vividly described, action rich adventure, with engaging characters and suitably wicked villains.
Having recently lost her father and been moved from all she knows, Oli finds herself at Foxley Hall where her mother has been employed. She finds herself catapulted into another world where she has no idea how important she is or the role she will play in helping to end the war which is raging there. Determined to help, she is both loyal and kind, helping Cory- Prince Corylus- to see that he is brave in his own way. Cory is my favourite character, however! Constantly comparing himself to his brother, Zandor, who Cory believes has inherited all his parents’ daring and determination, Cory feels he is both a failure and an embarrassment to his family. Yet, through his adventure, he shows himself to be resourceful and courageous, every bit the ‘prince’ his brother is.
The book contains a wide range of characters, yet the author manages to breathe life into each, offering a wealth of possible future stories as it feels as if there is plenty more to come from this world. References to the story of Oberon and Titania may well pique the curiosity of the reader, leading them to discover more through folklore and Shakespeare’s ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’.
This one is well worth a read!
The Curse of the Silvan Oaks
Georgia Channon
Pushkin Children’s ISBN: 978-1782695011
Out on the 10th April
Aggie Morton Mystery Queen: The Body Under the Piano
Aggie Morton lives in Torquay with her mother and grandmother. Although bright and imaginative, she is very shy, but one day, she meets a twelve-year-old Belgian immigrant, Hector Perot, forming a new friendship. When she finds a body under the piano at the Mermaid Dance Room where she goes for lessons, Aggie and Hector set about trying to solve the mystery and save Aggie’s dance teacher, Miss Marianne from being convicted of the crime.
Inspired by the life of Agatha Christie, ‘The Body Under the Piano’ is an excellent murder mystery, full of engaging characters, suspects, clues and red-herrings. For me, it was a one-sitting read- and I shall be catching up on the rest of the series as soon as possible!
Set in Torquay where Agatha Christie grew up, both the setting of the story and the character of Aggie draw on the life of the Queen of Crime whilst Hector Perot bears more than a passing resemblance to Poirot. Even Grannie Jane, who often refers to people and places she has known, has a hint of Miss Marple about her! For young readers, the book makes an excellent introduction to the murder mystery novel - and paves the way to the novels of Christie in future years! The author’s note at the end of the book adds detail and interest.
The plot is well-paced and engaging, keeping the reader guessing and guessing again as Aggie and Hector investigate. There is plenty of fun along the way as the crack the case. Out in paperback in April, this is a very enjoyable read!
Aggie Morton Mystery Queen: The Body Under the Piano
Marthe Jocelyn, illustrated by Isabelle Follath
Andersen Press ISBN: 978-1839136078
Westfallen
Although Henry, Frances and Lukas are no longer best friends, they meet up for the funeral of their pet gerbil. Whilst digging the grave, they make an amazing discovery- a radio which allows them to communicate with another group of three children who live in the very same place, only eighty years in the past.
Sharing information about their lives, Henry and his friends learn that the sweet shop which Alice, Lawrence and Artie go to in 1944 burns down so to prevent this accident, they get their new friends to take action to save it. However, they quickly learn that the slightest alteration can have far reaching consequences and as one change leads to another, they find they have changed history in the worst way possible.
I wasn’t sure that I would enjoy this one- but how wrong I was! ‘Westfallen’ is a compelling and addictive read which I could not put down. The story moves between events in the past and present, building tension and suspense as Henry, Frances and Lukas find themselves trapped in a real-life nightmare.
As the story opens, Henry, Lukas and Frances, childhood friends, have drifted apart with Henry feeling left behind by the others. Sporty, Lukas has moved on with the popular crowd and Frances has dyed her hair and found new friends. The excitement of their discovery and its subsequent events bring them back together again, rekindling the bond they had previously. As the children are plunged into the horror of a future where Nazi ideology is ruling America, Lukas, who is Jewish, finds himself suddenly doing menial labour tasks, rejected by those who in his other life were his friends and Henry, who is biracial, is labelled a ‘mischling’, assigned to ‘work learning’. The story captures a chilling sense of constant fear as those not considered Aryan suffer under the brutal regime.
The story also offers plenty to think about. It poses questions about what people become under certain conditions, how evil flourishes and how people can be destroyed. It is far from comfortable reading in places, challenging readers to think ‘what if...?’ and reflect on how every choice and decision has a consequence.
An excellent read!
Westfallen
Ann Brashares and Ben Brashares
Bloomsbury ISBN: 978-1526685490
Deep Dark
Cassia Thorne lives in the Fleet with her father, who is in prison for debt. She does what she can to support them by selling ballads in the streets and giving music lessons. When the younger brother of her friend goes missing, Cassia is determined to find him and with the help of Teo, a pickpocket and Felix Bradshaw, a well-to-do young man, she discovers a sinister plot, involving missing children and rumours of a fearsome beast lurking beneath the streets of London.
‘Deep Dark’ combines historical detail, fantasy and a sinister mystery to create a compelling adventure.
Set in Victorian London, the story includes plenty of real history. The threat of the workhouse, the evils of debtors’ prison, the lives of mudlarks and costermongers all help to build a vivid picture of Cassia’s world as she strives to make more of her life. Trapped in the Fleet due to her father’s misfortunes, she is determined to free herself from the poverty and limitations of her life whilst painfully aware that she is only one step away from life in the workhouse. The excitement and wonders St Bartholomew’s Fair offers a stark contrast to these realities, capturing the bustle and energy of those enjoying its sights and sounds.
A note at the end of the book adds some historical detail and context, offering suggestions for further investigation and research should readers wish to discover more whilst a map at the beginning allows them to follow Cassia’s adventures and realise that many of these places are still there in today’s London.
Cassia is a really strong, well-rounded character. Although ambitious and determined, she also experiences moments of doubt about the enormity of what she is trying to do and the realities of her situation. A loyal friend with a big heart, it is impossible not to like her and feel invested in her success as she takes on a seemingly impossible challenge, locating and freeing the missing children, caring when others so not. The contrast between Teo and Felix underlines the lack of social equality which existed (and continues to do so). Each boy is full of personality, each endearing in their own way.
The story comes to a satisfying conclusion, yet there is obviously more to come for Cassia, leaving readers keen for the next book to appear! ‘Deep Dark’ would make an excellent story time read for a Y6 class with plenty of tension and excitement to keep them on the edge of their seats as they root for Cassia every step of the way!
Deep Dark (A Cassia Thorne Mystery)
Zohra Nabi
Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1398532922
Wild Magic: Legend of the Black Lion
Twins, Misha and Ziggy, share a secret. Misha can talk to animals whilst Ziggy can shapeshift into them. When they accompany their dad, a wildlife TV presenter, on a trip to Ethiopia, they are determined to help him find the legendary black lion. However, when they discover poachers are threatening the wildlife, they are sure they can use their powers to help.
‘Legend of the Black Lion’ is a very engaging and enjoyable adventure story. The idea of being able to speak to animals is really appealing, making this sure to be a very popular book- the first of a new series.
The twins are lively and full of personality, who share a lovely relationship with their hard-working dad. Excited to see all the wildlife, they are also keen to use their powers to help their father get footage of the famous- and elusive- black lion. Their adventure contains just the right amount of jeopardy and tension to make the story exciting without causing upset and reaches a very satisfying conclusion where the goodies triumph and all is well!
Another lovely thing about this story is the amount of general information it contains about Ethiopia and its wildlife. Readers are sure to be fascinated by the fact that Ethiopia has a different calendar to the Western one, for example. Additional information at the end of the book about both black lions and Ethiopia is included and there are plenty of lovely illustrations, bursting with personality, which add much to the story.
‘Legend of the Black Lion’ would make an excellent class story!
Wild Magic: Legend of the Black Lion
Abiola Bello, illustrated by Emma McCann
Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1398520486
Call the Puffins: Tiny and the Cave Ghost
Muffin, Tiny and the rest of the trainee rescue puffins on the Island of Egg are all taking part in a special festival called Puffin Power. Tiny’s team has gained a new member, a little yellow chick called Flotsam, who has appeared and is determined to join in the fun. However, when Flotsam goes missing, all the young puffins rush to help- even though it means going into the dark caves where, legend has it, the Wandering Puffin lies in wait for visitors…
‘Tiny and the Cave Ghost’ is the fourth book in this delightful series about the Puffin Rescue Team trainees on the Island of Egg. Gorgeous illustrations combined with enjoyable adventures and firm friendships makes these stories ideal for younger readers- although I know several older children who absolutely love them!
Full of positive messages about friendship and teamwork, this adventure takes the young puffins on a rescue mission as they face their fears and work together to find little Flotsam who has wandered off and got into trouble. Tiny shows real leadership skills, combining an excellent idea with things learned on training to come up with a rescue successful rescue plan. The story involves just the right amount of peril and tension, making the story engaging, but not too worrying! Ella Okstad’s wonderful black and white illustrations capture the personality of each puffin perfectly.
Information about puffins is included at the end of the book, adding to the enjoyment of the story. In this book, readers learn that puffins’ beaks do glow- something which comes in useful whilst the team are in the caves!
Perfect for animal/ bird lovers or anyone who enjoys a good adventure, these wonderfully engaging little books are a real treat!
Call the Puffins! Tiny and the Cave Ghost
Cath Howe, illustrated by Ella Okstad
Welbeck ISBN: 978-1804536407
Published on the 13th March 2025
Watch Your Back
Starting the new school year has been a challenge for Kara. Her best friend, Eden, has a new boyfriend and has completely cut her off, leaving her friendless. When the year ‘freak’, Romilly, comes to her aid, Kara finds herself drawn into a friendship which she is unsure about and when unsettling things start to happen, Kara can’t help but suspect Romilly is behind them…
I love a book by Sue Wallman and I think this might be the best yet! ‘Watch Your Back’ is both thought-provoking and compelling, an absolute one-sitting read…and it took me almost to the conclusion to work out what was going on!
The story is cleverly plotted with plenty of clues, red herrings and twists, making it a very satisfying mystery. A sense of uneasy tension mounts as Kara starts to doubt all those around her, losing trust in them and feeling betrayed when her suspicions are not taken seriously. As she finds the tables turned so that she appears to be the aggressor rather than the victim, Kara’s sense of panic is all too real as she struggles to prove her innocence.
Kara is a really likeable, flawed, genuine character, with a loving family, living a messy, ‘real’ life which many readers will be able to relate to. When her close relationship with her one, best friend suddenly ends, she is completely derailed and confused. Her sense of bewilderment and hurt at this sudden rejection and at Eden’s apparent enjoyment of being part of the ‘cool’ group is really well captured as Kara circles through feelings of anger, confusion, loss and self-doubt.
Romilly is also really well captured. Ostracised by her peers, she is desperate for friendship and finds the muddy waters of how she is expected to behave difficult to navigate. The casual, thoughtless unkindness she faces is a harsh reminder that our school system is not kind to everyone.
Manipulation, control, deceit and true friendship are all explored in this engrossing story. One not to be missed!
Watch Your Back
Sue Wallman
Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702332920
Published 13th March 2025
The Appletree Animal Agency
Wishing on a shooting star for the puppy she desperately wants, Mattie knows it won’t happen as her Dad just doesn’t believe she is responsible enough yet to properly look after one. However, when she and her friend, Zoe, find a tiny, scruffy puppy in need of help, she rises to the challenge and meeting the new vet, Dr Polly and her son, Casper, all three children become her apprentice vets. Together, they care for all manner of pets, but soon realise that these creatures need to find homes of their own. That’s when Mattie has one of her madcap Mattie schemes…
‘The Apprentice Animal Agency’ is the first book in a new series which is sure to be a huge hit with young animal lovers. It offers a wonderful blend of gentle adventure, humour, friendship and mishaps, making it perfect for those who are after a well-written, engaging tale which is not packed with peril or fart jokes!
Mattie, Zoe and Casper are three really nice kids who are not fixed to their phones, but are keen to be hands on and active by helping look after animals. Zoe is highly organised, Casper ‘knows everything’ about animals and Mattie has a way with them, making the perfect team. However, not everything goes smoothly, showing each child’s flaws as well as their strengths. Each problem is overcome and the friends emerge stronger than before, offering reassurance and showing the importance of seeing things through and solving problems.
There is a real focus on care for animals which shines through this story. Mattie is desperate for a puppy, but Dad is keen to make sure she is responsible enough to look after one. On finding the puppy, who Mattie calls Luna, the children show great patience and understanding, waiting for it to be ready to come to them rather than rushing it. Each of the pets being rehomed is carefully matched to their new owner, considering the needs and well-being of both. It is not often that the thought needed when considering adopting a pet is shown in children’s stories so this is wonderful to see!
I look forward to seeing the second book in the series, ‘Collie Chaos’!
The Appletree Animal Agency
Katya Balen, illustrated by Gill Smith
Walker Books ISBN: 978-1529519181
Wink, Murder
Mary is reluctantly leaving Bletchley Park, following orders which take her to Bedford and top-secret lessons in Japanese. The only girl in the group, she finds herself befriended by her American study partner, Spencer. Suddenly summoned back to Bletchley, Mary finds herself heading off on assignment to London where she is to pose as a waitress and listen in on the conversations of prisoners dining at the Ritz Hotel. To her surprise, Spencer has also been posted on this assignment and the two work together on the case. But odd things constantly remind Mary that she should ‘Trust no one’, making her question everyone…
This is the third ‘Bletchley Park Mystery’ which features friends, Robyn, Ned and Mary and their experiences whilst based at Bletchley Park during WWII. They are cracking stories, full of excitement and adventure and historical detail. This book focuses on Mary, a mixed-race girl from Liverpool and is just as excellent as the first two.
There are so many elements to this book, all skilfully combined to create a really fascinating story. Not only does it offer a look at the world of espionage, its technology and agents, during the second world war, but it is very rich in background information about life at this time. Mary is caught on a bus during a bomb raid and she helps out with the WVS (The Women's Voluntary Service), allowing the reader to learn more about these things. The book also does not shy away from the racism and sexism she experiences, nor from the way immigrants were treated.
‘Wink, Murder’ would make an excellent class text, either for a thoroughly enjoyable class read or an equally enjoyable focus book to use to support learning about WWII. Additional notes at the end of the book support understanding of some of the elements in the story with plenty of links to enable those interested to explore further. Readers are sure to be inspired to visit Bletchley Park which is truly fascinating. I really hope there are more ‘Bletchley Park Mystery’ books still to come as each one is even better than the last!
Wink, Murder: A Bletchley Park Mystery
Rhian Tracey
Piccadilly Press ISBN: 978-1800789593
You can read about my visit to Bletchley Park here.
Rebel Heart
In 1645, England is a country torn by war, with families and friends divided as they fight either on the side of the King or Parliament. While Merriweather Price’s father is away fighting for King Charles I, her home, Compton Blaize, is besieged by Cromwell’s men. Fearful that her step-mother is going to surrender to the enemy, Merri disguises herself as a boy and sets off in search of help.
‘Rebel Heart’ is historical fiction at its finest. Full of action and adventure, the story is also rich in the level of detail which creates a sense of atmosphere and period so essential for a story of this kind.
Merriweather is such an engaging character. Courageous and loyal, she is determined to live up to her family motto, ‘Fearless and True’, and save her family home. On her way to find help, she encounters both ruthless people exploiting the chaos of civil war as well as those who truly believe that they are fighting on the ‘right’ side, making her revaluate her own beliefs and question things which she has simply accepted.
The story highlights the harsh realities of war with Merri witnessing the horrors of the Battle of Naseby as well as the suffering of those not fighting, but caught in the brutality of civil war. It also reflects the role played by many women who were left to defend their homes, defying the conventions that society placed on them. Detailed notes at the end of the book offer much valuable background information as well as encouraging readers to explore this period further.
Books like ‘Rebel Heart’ are essential for broadening children’s knowledge and understanding of periods of history beyond those taught in the primary curriculum, sparking interest in and awareness of the many layers of history which are everywhere. As with her other books, Ally Sherrick has a talent for bringing the past to life and writing really memorable stories full of adventure.
Rebel Heart
Ally Sherrick
Chicken House ISBN: 978-1915026996
Published 13th March 2025
You can read my review of ‘Vita and the Gladiator’ here.
The Forbidden Atlas
Isaac and Hattie are in Paris at the National Archives, waiting to be presented with a special medal for rescuing the world’s clocks from disaster when a gunshot sets them off on another adventure, this time on the greatest treasure hunt in history- the legendary hidden treasure of King Louis XV1. As their search leads them into the maze of tunnels beneath Paris, the children find themselves pursued by a ruthless killer in a high-stakes race to discover the treasure- and save Paris.
Sam Sedgman has done it again with another gripping, beautifully written adventure which has all the thrills and spills, twists and turns readers have come to expect from his stories. ‘The Forbidden Atlas’ is rich in history and detail as well as being a first rate, tension filled mystery.
A perfect balance of engaging characters allows Sam Sedgman to share so much information about Paris, the legend of Louis XVI’s treasure, the catacombs and maps, weaving this effortlessly into the story as each character shares their knowledge and understanding. Isaac, less impetuous and daring perhaps than Hattie, is full of scientific understanding, the love of learning and a determination to do the right thing Hattie is bursting with confidence and intelligence, quick to action and impulsive. Leon, who they meet on this adventure, has an insider’s knowledge of Paris and its secrets. As each shares what they know, the reader learns so much, gaining a deeper understanding of both the story and its setting. Additional information from the author at the end of the book clarifies where Sam Sedgman has ‘strayed from the path of truth for the sake of a good story’!
Like the first book in this series, ‘The Clockwork Conspiracy’, ‘The Forbidden Atlas’ is an ingenious mystery, which will keep readers guessing and questioning every step of the way. It would make a cracking class story- one chapter (there are twenty- like the twenty arrondissements of Paris!) would never be enough! Fortunately, the ending gives a tantalising clue about the next story, ‘The Galileo Heist’…I can’t wait!
Isaac Turner Investigates: The Forbidden Atlas
Sam Sedgman, illustrated by David Dean
Bloomsbury ISBN: 978-1526665430
You can read my review of the first Isaac Turner Investigates book, ‘The Clockwork Conspiracy’, here.
George and the Mini Dragon
George is bursting with excitement. It’s his seventh birthday and he is desperate to see if he has been given all the presents on his list. Although he has lots to unwrap, he is really disappointed when he finds that he has not been given a pet. However, when blowing out his candles, George makes a birthday wish- and wishes for a pet dragon! When his wish comes true, George is delighted and names the little dragon Lava, but he soon realises that keeping his new pet a secret is not going to be easy!
‘George and the Mini Dragon’ is a delightful story, perfect for younger readers who will be swept along in the adventure. It is a story about family, friendship and fun!
George is a really appealing character and readers will quickly warm to him as his energy and enthusiasm are a real joy. Through the story, George shares details about having Downs Syndrome and how this impacts his life- how using Makaton helps him to communicate, how sometimes it can be annoying when people can’t understand him- encouraging empathy and understanding. The whole tone of the story is upbeat and positive, showing George with good friends, enjoying experiences which everyone can relate to.
The story is accompanied by wonderful illustrations which match the joy and energy of the text perfectly, making it even more engaging. Although a lovely story for both home and school, this would be excellent for a class story time. Having taught children with Downs over my years in the classroom, I would have loved to have had stories like this to share. Invaluable for being inclusive, ‘George and the Mini Dragon’ is above all a thoroughly enjoyable story.
George and the Mini Dragon
George Webster with Helen Harvey, illustrated by Tim Budgen
Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702337291
The Great Theatre Rescue
Charley’s childhood has been unconventional and full of excitement. Her life revolves around The Wren theatre, where, at last, she has a chance to be on the stage, not just behind the curtains. However, when disaster strikes, Charley finds herself bundled off to St Mary-at-Cliffe School for girls which is less like a school and more like a prison. Here the pupils are kept hard at work to line the pockets of those in charge. Knowing the theatre is in peril, Charley is determined to escape, return to London and save the theatre that she loves.
‘The Great Theatre Rescue’ has it all! Vivid, atmospheric descriptions bring the places and characters in this story brilliantly to life as the plot romps along at a pleasing pace. There are dastardly baddies, courageous and determined heroines, historical figures - and a devoted canine companion- making this an adventure to appeal to everyone!
Charley is a very endearing, likeable character who is flawed and easy to identify with as she navigates the challenges thrown at her. Her developing friendship with Jewel, who she meets at school, is really handled and offers some interesting twists to the tale.
The harshness of the boarding school contrasts with the lively warmth and companionship of theatre life, giving the story real colour- and offering echoes of a Dickensian world. Orphans, street gangs, foundling babies, unexpected relationships, betrayal, heartache, love and loyalty transport the reader to another world as Charley strives to save the theatre and overcome her crippling stage fright. There is so much to love in this book.
The energy, tension and excitement of the story would make this an excellent choice for class story time, offering much to enjoy and plenty to discuss. A brilliant read!
The Great Theatre Rescue
Judith Eagle
Faber ISBN: 978-0571363308
You can read my review of ‘The Accidental Stowaway’ here.
Squirrel and Duck: Mission Improbable
Although Squirrel and Duck have little in common- Duck being jolly and Squirrel somewhat cranky- they live together with Duck’s pet cactus, Mr Spikes, in a fibreglass tree in an abandoned theme park. As talking animals, they need to keep a low profile which is working well until they discover that the theme park is to be demolished to make way for luxury apartments. When they overheard a conversation between two strangers about where they have hidden the most expensive painting in the world, they decide to find the picture with Duck planning to return it to its owner and Squirrel thinking they could use it to buy a new home. What could possibly go wrong?
Wonderfully whimsical, ‘Squirrel and Duck: Mission Improbable’ is bursting with humour. Pacey, energetic narrative is accompanied by lots of illustrations which help to build the different personalities of Squirrel and Duck as their adventure continues. The two friends are nothing alike and yet together they can ‘do anything’, making them the perfect team.
There are many giggle-worthy moments in the story, not least when Squirrel tries to speak to the grey squirrels in the woods, but is out of practice in ‘speaking squirrel’ and utters offensive nonsense instead. Good triumphing over evil, friendship saving the day, and a series of happy misadventures make for an enjoyable story with more adventures to follow.
Squirrel and Duck: Mission Improbable
Tom Percival
Bloomsbury ISBN: 978-1526665638
Capitana
Ximena Reale is determined to become a Cazadoro at La Academia de los Cazadores, but despite being a star student, her prospects are tarnished by her heritage. Five years ago, her parents were executed for being pirates and now her older sister’s behaviour is casting a shadow on Ximena’s rising star. When it seems that Gasparilla, a notorious, but supposedly dead, pirate captain, is in action once more, Ximena sees this as her opportunity to prove herself and achieve her dream…
‘Capitana’ is not normally the sort of book I would pick up- however, I am very glad that I did as I thoroughly enjoyed it. If you haven’t read it, please continue at your peril as I might give some bits away!
The plot moves at a lively pace, full of action and with plenty of twists, as Ximena gradually begins to question everything she has known and believed in all her life. Strong, determined and single-minded, she has done her duty ‘to the Law, to the Queen and to the Empire’ without thinking, rejecting friendship and expecting the ill treatment caused by her parents’ disgrace. As the book develops, there is a real change in her persona and she begins to question the system she has always believed in as she sees the harm done by imperialism and ruthless authority on her journey to defeat Gasparilla, ultimately leading to her defying the Empire and taking a very different path.
The writing is really atmospheric, scattered with Spanish vocabulary, immersing the reader in Ximena’s world with vivid descriptions. Although there are many deaths and plenty of violence, the author manages to avoid being overly gory. Similarly, the simmering romance between Ximena and her arch rival, Dante de Leon, who has progressed through nepotism rather than effort, is really well handled, not over-done as it is in some ‘teen romance’ stories!
Great good stuff!
Capitana
Cassandra James
Hot Key Books ISBN: 1471416743
Out on the 4th February
The First Year
Nate is about to start secondary school. After a challenging final year at Primary, things seem to have settled for him and he is ready for a fun-filled summer before a fresh start in September. However, a new school brings new challenges- and some old. Avoiding Turner, conforming to endless rules and adapting to new teachers combined with a growing sense of distance between Nate and his brothers combine to unsettle him. And then, there’s a surprise reappearance in his life…
Writing the sequel to an incredibly popular book must be a daunting task. Reading such a sequel is hard enough- will the character maintain their personality? will they grow? will the plot be engaging or contrived? And most importantly, will it leave you with the same sense of awe and wonder as the first?
‘The Final Year’ made a huge impact on me - and on many children and adults who I have had the joy of discussing it with. In Nate, Matt managed to capture the very essence of many children I have taught over the years and really give them a voice. His extraordinary ability to do this continues in ‘The First Year’.
Starting secondary school is a massive change for children. Primary schools offer a far more secure, comforting environment, even for those who struggle with it, than the impersonal, large scale nature of secondary schools. For those already vulnerable and adrift, this can be completely overwhelming. Nate’s bond with Mr Joshua, the pull of the familiarity of his old school, the fact that his brothers are still there all combine to emphasise Nate’s sense of growing disaffection with his new school where he feels he is being labelled and judged. There is no empathy, no consideration for the turbulent emotions and confusion which might be colouring an individual’s life- and behaviour.
The seeming simplicity of the text belies the complexity of emotion and experience which the story explores. The power and poignancy in places is breath taking, making Nate’s continued story ever bit as engaging as it was in ‘The Final Year’. There is no doubting the skill of Matt’s writing- ‘The First Year’ is sure to gain just as many well deserved accolades as ‘the Final Year’.
The First Year
Matt Goodfellow, illustrated by Joe Todd-Stanton
Otter Barry Books ISBN: 978-1915659606
You can read my review of ‘The Final Year’ here.
