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.
The Magician’s Daughter
Since Abby’s mum died, her father has been struggling with his magic act. After yet another disastrous show, he decides to give it all up and take a job as a carer in a home. However, when Abby finds an old book containing spells in her grandmother’s trunk, things change, not only for them, but for the whole community.
This is such a joyous story which adds a touch of magic to the everyday, resulting in a warm-hearted, spell-binding tale. For me, it was a one-sitting read- impossible to put down!
Abby and her father have such a close, warm relationship, full of understanding and love. When Abby discovers the magic contained in the spells in the book, they instantly decide to share the wonder and delight with those around them. Completely content with what they have, they want to share this with their community and friends.
Myra is Abby’s best friend and the story also sees her struggle personally and then learn to believe in herself and her abilities. I really don’t want to spoil the story for anyone who hasn’t read it yet, but this is such an important and beautifully handled thread. Inter-generational relationships are also skilfully explored.
Illustrated throughout by George Ermos, ‘The Magician’s Daughter’ is an absolute delight- don’t miss it!
The Magician’s Daughter
Caryl Lewis, illustrated by George Ermos
Macmillan ISBN: 978-1529078169
Mort the Meek and the Perilous Prophecy
‘…we don’t like strangers on Brutalia, let alone strangers that are fiendish.’
When the Queen of Brutalia declares that everyone must be alert to the presence of strangers, fear falls over the land ‘like an itchy blanket’. As a pacifist, Mort is more inclined to believe that strangers might be friends than enemies and when he and Weed meet Genia and Vita from the tropical island of Bonrock, it seems he is right. Sent on a mission to Bonrock to learn more, the boys find a warm welcome and a beautiful location …but is everything as it seems?
Rachel Delahaye’s ‘Day of the Whale’ is one of my favourite books and the contrast in style between that and the ‘Mort the Meek’ series shows what a talented and versatile author she is. And yet, amid all the humour and horseplay, punning and pacifism of the Mort books, some fairly serious points are being made.
Children love these books for their fiendish humour and deliciously dark happenings. Each chapter begins with Ratty and Ratto the rats sharing a joke (with a gust appearance from Larry and Bruce the lobsters), relishing in the word play and punning which is a key feature of each book. The use of homophones and grammar in a playful, entertaining way is perfect for using to illustrate spelling and grammar lessons, making it relevant and lighthearted. There are points at which the characters help to clarify the words which Mort and Weed are sure have been made up and help to correct their grammar, helping the reader to understand along the way. It’s beautifully done- and skilfully!
As the boys explore a different world, Mort continues to hold onto his pacifist principles and Weed develops a serious crush whilst events thunder to their exciting conclusion. Any of the books in this series would make an excellent read aloud with plenty to discuss and enjoy with a class, for a fabulous bedtime story or as a most enjoyable independent read. George Ermos’s illustrations are the perfect complement to the story.
Mort the Meek and the Perilous Prophecy
Rachel Delahaye, illustrated by George Ermos
Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1788955706
