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 Next Door
Callie and her father have moved away from London, away from her friends, away from her memories. Struggling to settle into her new life in Northern Ireland, she is staring out of her window one night, unable to sleep, when a loud BOOM announces the arrival of an upside-down house in her back garden. When this disappears, Callie is convinced she has been seeing things until the arrival of a magical paper plane brings a message from Winnifred Potts, the magician linked to the house, who is in desperate need of help. She has lost her Wanderlust, the magic which charges everything in the house, protecting it from attack from magical creatures. Can Callie and her new friend, Sam, offer the help Winnifred and her house need?
‘The Magician Next Door’ is -as the title suggests- a story full of magic, imagination and adventure, but it is also about ‘home’, friendship and a sense of belonging.
Having moved for her father’s new job, Callie is overwhelmed by homesickness as well as the loss of her mother. The Rose Building where she lived in London offered not only a home, but a bustling community, with friends and neighbours where everyone knew each other and were like ‘one big extended family’. In the middle of the Mourne Mountains where she is now living, things seem the complete opposite. This sense of loss and longing is vividly conveyed and yet, Callie comes to realise that home really is where the heart is and that, although new friends and new experiences can never replace those we have lost or are missing, they certainly help you work through those emotions and offer hope for the future. Author, Rachel Chivers Khoo, has done a wonderful job of sensitively balancing Callie’s raw emotions with magic and adventure, so the story never feels swamped by these feelings.
The magical house with the turquoise roof and its special connection to Winnifred is a wonderful one and ‘Wanderlust’ is something which we all need a sprinkle of from time to time! The story also touches on the world of Irish folklore and the map at the front of the book is a copy of ‘Sam’s Seven Wonders of the Mourne Mountains’, the one which he gives to Callie, which shows the location of the Leprechaun Tunnel and Finn MacCool’s Rock amongst other things. The illustrations throughout capture the wonderfully quirky nature of the story perfectly, offering plenty of details to enjoy.
I hope there are more stories to come about Callie, Sam, Winnifred and her house as it seems to me that there are so many adventures which they could share! A great read.
The Magician Next Door
Rachel Chivers Khoo, illustrated by Alice McKinley
Walker Books ISBN: 978-1529507911
You can read my review of ‘The Wishkeeper’s Apprentice’ here.
The Secret of the Moonshard
Orphan Domino lives with the Science Barons in the Scientarium Celestis, a floating laboratory. Allergic to magic, she is forced to stay here, tormented by the other children, a complex problem for the Barons to solve. However, when a Science Baron returns and requests Domino as his assistant, she discovers that everything she has been told is a lie and escapes to Abzalaymon, a city full of wonders. Pursued by the Barons, Domino discovers magic, secrets and a sinister plot.
This is a breathtakingly good fantasy which no attempt at a summary can possibly do justice to! Domino’s world is so vividly created with such attention to detail and imagination that the reader is immediately captivated and drawn deeply into this compelling adventure.
Domino is a fabulous heroine. Feisty and impetuous, she is trapped in the Scientarium from where she can see the city beneath which she longs to visit. Constantly bullied and despised by the other children and described as ‘an intolerable nuisance’ by the Science Barons, she strikes back by devising pranks to gain revenge, allowing her to feel some small measure of control. She is just one of the many memorable characters who come to life in these pages.
Should you read this one? Absolutely!
The Secret of the Moonshard
Struan Murray, illustrated by Vivienne To
Puffin ISBN: 978-0241535585
First reviewed for Reading Zone.
The Past Master
When they are notified that there is trouble in 1999 on New Year’s Eve, Elle and the Leaplings find themselves facing the evil Millennia. They must thwart her plans to manipulate time and save the world.
In the fourth and final book of The Leap Cycle series, Patience Agbabi draws everything together to an exciting and satisfying conclusion for Elle and her friends. A diverse, interesting group, the Leapings face new dangers and old enemies as they work together in the past, present and future to defeat Millennia’s new plan.
Elle has grown wonderfully over the course of the four books. She is still curious and determined, but her confidence has grown with her ability to use The Gift and the support of the other Leaplings. As an autistic character, she is completely convincing, something has been sensitively handled throughout the series by the author.
The complexities of time travel, its consequences, its possibilities, its temptations…everything is skilfully explored, creating a pacy, exciting story which brings the series to its conclusion. Perfect for children who enjoyed science fiction, these stories also offer much to enjoy for those who enjoy an exciting adventure with strong, appealing characters.
The Past Master
Patience Agbabi
Canongate ISBN: 978-1838855819
You can read my review of ‘The Infinite’ here and ‘The Circle Breakers’ here.
Croaky: Search for the Sasquatch
Croaky Hopper is a fearless frog, desperate to follow in the hops of his TV hero, Tennessee Toad. When he joins the Woggle Scouts, he meets Sheena the mouse and Winston the puffin and is whisked off on his first adventure, Camping in Crystal Creek National Park. However, Croaky soon discovers that the real reason they are there is to search for a Sasquatch and the real adventure begins…
Full of humour and fun, ‘Croaky: Search for the Sasquatch’ is exactly the sort of book my son would have loved when he was younger! Engaging from the very first page, it offers adventure, lots of laughs and a very endearing main character, all enhanced by plentiful, lively illustrations. The text is bold and clear, standing out even against some of the stronger coloured backgrounds and presented in achievable chunks. There are also sections presented in the comic book style, making this a fabulous hybrid of graphic and early novel, sure to appeal to a wide range of readers.
Croaky is a wonderful character. Due to his longing for adventure, Croaky has struggled to make friends, but with in Woggle Scouts, he has found Sheena, a highly organised, badge-loving, clever mouse and the leader of the pack, former adventurer, Winston the puffin. He is a bit impetuous, but he is brave and kind and determined, completing the perfect adventuring team!
At the end of the book, the reader is able to ‘earn’ a pathfinder and looker badge by completing activity pages. Croaky is sure to become a huge favourite and, as this is the first of a series, have everyone looking forward to his next adventure!
Croaky: Search for the Sasquatch
Matty Long
OUP ISBN: 978-0192785183
Published 7th March
Dreamstalkers: The Night Train
Bea Grimspuddle lives in a cottage on Thunderheart Tor with her mother, Ula, and Pip, the owl which Bea has nurtured since finding her as a fledgling. Treated with suspicion by the other villagers, Bea feels more at home with nature. When their dreams disappear, the decision is made to abandon the settlement, but Ula falls ill, leaving Bea determined to remain with her.
Realising her mother has been keeping secrets from her, Bea is amazed by the sudden appearance of a mysterious steam train with a stranger at their cottage. Seizing a chance to save her mother, Bea- and her former friend, Martha Heathsweep, are catapulted into an incredible adventure.
‘The Huntress’ trilogy is one of my favourite series, evocative and beautifully written; ‘Once We Were Witches’ and its sequel, ‘Twice We Make Magic’, are wonderfully magical and imaginative so I had high hopes for ‘Dreamstalkers’- and I was not disappointed!
From the first page, Bea is a captivating character whose devotion to her mother, curiosity, determination and tenacity, make her both believable and engaging. Ostracised by her peers, she has sought comfort in the natural world, becoming distrustful of her peers and so her renewed friendship with Martha is prickly and uncomfortable at first as she learns that she can rely on others and seek their help as she overcomes jealousy, faces danger and uncovers secrets. Martha is also an appealing character whose good heart, loyalty and courage are to be admired.
The world of the Dreamstalkers is one so richly imagined and enjoyable that I closed the book with reluctance when it came to an end. There are so many things details which make it unforgettable and enjoyable - and I can’t wait for the next instalment!
Dreamstalkers: The Night Train
Sarah Driver
Farshore ISBN: 978-0008595029
You can read my review of ‘The Huntress: Sea’ here.
The Clockwork Conspiracy
Isaac Turner lives with his dad who is the Keeper of the Great Clock in the Palace of Westminster, tending the clock everyone thinks is called Big Ben, but isn’t. On the night the clocks go back, Isaac’s father disappears from the belfry, leaving only his broken pocket watch behind. Isaac is determined to find him and, with the help of Hattie, daughter of his godfather, follows a trail of clues across London, uncovering a sinister plot as they race against time.
After the fantastic ‘Adventures on Trains’ series, I expected Sam Sedgman’s new book, ‘The Clockwork Conspiracy’ to be an excellent read- and it was! Not only is this a gripping, action-packed mystery, but the whole story is scattered with interesting facts, trivia and history, making it a richly satisfying read.
Isaac and Hattie make an excellent team. Complete opposites, they bring out the best in one another and make a formidable duo, as they face every challenge and puzzle thrown at them. Hattie is quick-witted, rebellious and impetuous whilst Isaac is cautious, methodical and conscientious.
As the minutes tick by (shown by the chapter headings), Isaac and Hattie scramble across the rooftops of London, deciphering clues and solving puzzles to save Isaac’s father and defeat those plotting to change time and take over the world! Tension builds as the story reaches its very satisfying conclusion, leaving the reader wanting another mystery for Isaac and Hattie to solve which there is a sneak peak of at the end of the book.
Notes at the end of the story by Sam Sedgman clarify some elements of the story, explaining where he has ‘strayed from the truth’ and which are real, all of which adds to the enjoyment of this excellent story. We’ve booked the guided tour of Queen Elizabeth Tower to see Big Ben..!
The Clockwork Conspiracy Sam Sedgman
Bloomsbury ISBN: 978-1526665386
You can read my reviews of ‘The Arctic Railway Assassin’ here, ‘Sabotage on the Solar Express’ here and Epic Adventures: Explore the World in 12 Amazing Train Journeys’ here.
Adventuremice: Mice on the Moon
When Millie’s Uncle Bernie, inventor Professor Quartermouse, sends a message asking the Adventuremice to visit him on Scrabble Island, Pedro, Bosun and the other mice leave the Mousebase to rush to his aid. However, they arrive to find there is no emergency, just Uncle Bernie wanting to share his latest invention with them- a spaceship! Suddenly, Pedro, Millie and Fledermaus find themselves stuck in the capsule, heading into space. But will they be the first mice on the moon?
These stories just go from strength to strength! Imaginative adventures, endearing characters, plenty of humour and wonderful illustrations combine perfectly to make books full of appeal and charm.
In this story, the Adventuremice are not saving others, but saving themselves! Having been trapped in the rocket, Pedro, Millie and Fledermaus find themselves not on the moon, but on the minimoon, which circles the moon in the same way as the moon circles the Earth. Here, they meet Pontiki, another mouse who invented a spaceship, who is now stranded and surviving with the help of the starmice. These very sensible mice are welcoming, but quite different to the Adventuremice who come up with an ingenious plan which allows them to return to Earth, taking Pontiki with them.
Delightful illustrations accompany the text at every stage, really bringing the adventures of the mice to life. I love the cross section of Uncle Bernie’s rocket and, of course, the map of their journey through space. There are so many details to notice and enjoy in these pictures and as usual in this series, there is a step-by-step ‘how to draw’ at the end of the book, sure to encourage young readers to have a go - and perhaps create their own adventures.
Although I love these books as books and think there is nothing more important than a good book, I do think that they would make an excellent cartoon series and should have a wonderful range of toys to accompany it as they would inspire so much play, full of fun, imagination and learning. Let’s hope..!
Adventure Mice: Mice on the Moon
Philip Reeve and Sarah McIntyre
David Fickling Books ISBN: 978-1788452700
Published on the 7th March
You can read my review of Otter Chaos! here and Mice on the Ice here
The Story Shop: Detective Dash
In Puddletown High Street, there is the most unusual shop- The Story Shop- which sells stories you can actually BE in. When shopkeeper, Wilbur and his assistant, Fred Ferret find a sleepy sloth in the shop, they decide the best kind of adventure for her is a mystery where she can play detective. With Fred to guide her, Suzy Sloth sets off to solve a puzzling mystery in a museum, locate a missing chef by the seaside and uncover the truth about the Demon Duck of Doom in Watery Bottom.
This is the fourth adventure in ‘The Story Shop’ series from Tracey Corderoy and Tony Neal, although each book can easily be read as a stand alone. Each of the books contains three adventures, presented in chapters which are achievable and offer a sense of satisfaction and encouragement for newly independent readers whilst the enjoyable plots are sure to keep the attention of older siblings should these stories be shared at home.
Humour in both illustrations and text make these stories very appealing. Fred Ferret has his work cut out trying to keep Suzie Sloth awake during their investigations, but together they manage to solve each case and escape back to the Story Shop where he can have a well deserved nap! Children will enjoy spotting the clues and trying to solve the mysteries alongside detectives, Suzy and Fred!
Tracey’s lively writing uses a rich vocabulary and the text is a pleasure to read aloud, offering plenty to discuss and enjoy. This series would make excellent class stories for children in KS1 as well as a very enjoyable bedtime book. Great fun!
The Story Shop Detective Dash!
Tracey Corderoy, illustrated by Tony Neal
Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1788953337
Fright Bite
Club Loser are heading to Neon Perch, the place to go, for a night of celebrating Colette’s 13th birthday. With Songbird Karaoke, Galactic Golf, Battle Karts and a kitty of cash to spend, they are set to have the best night ever! However, as usual, nothing goes to plan and when the friends decide to experience Project Z, the brand-new, immersive, zombie escape room experience in the basement, they quickly realise that their old adversaries are back with more unpleasant surprises and horrors, including some vicious creatures with a poisonous bite…tick, tock.
A new book from Jennifer Killick is always a celebration- a new ‘Dread Wood’ book doubly so! Each book seems better than the last and although I might have been heard to say that ‘Deadly Deep’ was my favourite, I can now reveal that ‘Fright Bite’ has knocked it off the top spot!
One of the joys of these books is that you really feel part of ‘Club Loser’ and so are fully invested in the adventure before it starts. This unlikely group of friends prove that opposites attract and show the importance of getting to know others. Each of the gang is unique, each is flawed, but they really bring out the best in each other!
The story starts calmly enough. There is plenty of banter and if you haven’t read the previous books (why haven’t you read the previous books?), you quickly build a picture of each personality, including the very loveable Mr C, and the dynamic of the group. Having initially lulled you into a (very false) sense of security, Jennifer Killick quickly starts to build tension until the inevitable realisation dawns and the Latchitts are back!
As Club Loser face a series of terrors, culminating in venom-dripping rats controlled by Hickory Dickory Dock, the mixture of tension, humour and action keeps the reader on the edge of their seat, only breathing a sigh of relief in the last few pages when safety and sanity are once more restored. It’s a cracking read- and I can’t wait for the next one!
Dread Wood: Fright Bite
Jennifer Killick
Farshore ISBN: 978-0008657031
You can read my review of ‘Dread Wood’ here, Deadly Deep here Crater Lake here and Crater Lake Evolution here.
Twice Upon a Time
The Morrow twins, Merry and Spike, have an unusual connection with time. One born before midnight, one after, they are not only born on different days, but different years, with clocks in the house stopping to mark the time for each. When their mother, an art restorer, takes a job at Fox House, the twins are convinced they are in for a dreary holiday, but they soon find themselves caught up in mysterious happenings and unsolved mysteries which they begin to investigate using their own secret - the power to manipulate time.
I am a huge fan of Michelle Harrison’s books, particularly the ‘Pinch of Magic’ series. The brilliantly developed Widdershins sisters and cleverly drawn, well-imagined locations of these stories make them compelling reading and I was delighted to find that characters and settings are also strengths of ‘Twice Upon a Time’!
The Morrow twins might be identical, but they have very different personalities and tendencies. Merry (Meredith) is a dreamer, full of imagination and a love of words, constantly writing poems whilst Spike (Rose) has a fascination with poisons and as her nickname suggests, a somewhat prickly personality. Since having had meningitis a few years ago, Spike suffers with tinnitus, which affects her greatly, causing the reader to both develop an awareness of, and empathise with, her condition. They make a great team, using their talent occasionally for mischief, but more often to help unravel the mystery surrounding Fox House. Ben Gumbley, who lives at the house, makes an excellent addition to the group and is soon party to their secret.
The plot is perfectly paced, with clues and misdirection along the way, as it builds to a very satisfying conclusion. I have no wish to spoil the story for anyone else so won’t say any more about it, except that it is an excellent read. My only concern is whether there will be any more stories about the Merrow girls- and possibly Ben! It feels to me as if there should me more adventures for them- and yet, the book works perfectly as a stand alone. Perhaps I’m just being greedy!
Twice Upon a Time
Michelle Harrison, illustrated by Natalie Smillie
Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1471197673
You can read my review of ‘A Pinch of Magic’ here, ‘A Sprinkle of Sorcery’ here, ‘A Tangle of Spells’ here and ‘A Storm of Sisters’ here.
Diamond Jack: Your Magic or Your Life
Bramble and her sister, Lena, have recently lost their parents and now live with their grandfather, helping out in his shop, ‘Mr Browning’s Emporium of Strange and Magical Things’. Left in charge, she and her best friend, Ernest, who lives next door with his mother at the dressmaker’s shop, discover a hidden box in the forbidden shed at the bottom of the garden. Inside is a red highwayman’s mask which Bram feels compelled to try on- and then can’t take off. When her Grandfather is taken, Bram discovers that the mask transforms her into the famous highwayman, Diamond Jack and she is thrust into a mission full of action, adventure- and magic!
A riotous romp of a read, ‘Diamond Jack’ has much to recommend it! The story bounces along at a pleasing pace with plenty of action and much to discuss. Bram is a great character. Thrust into a role which she did not choose, she overcomes her fears and rises to the challenges thrown at her, proving she is capable and resilient. Ernest is a joy and their friendship is really well captured and believable.
Humour is woven through the story- sure to appeal to any adults sharing the story as well as children. Mrs Kipling, for example, ‘does make exceedingly good cakes’! But the story also offers plenty do discuss. There are links to other stories like the Robin Hood legends which might be explored, research about real highwaymen and their exploits as well as considering how people ‘mask’ themselves sometimes just as Bram adopted the persona of Diamond Jack when wearing the mask. Family secrets might also be a topic of conversation, considering why certain characters chose to act as they did and the consequences of these choices.
However, above all this magical story offers an action-packed adventure- with the potential of more to come!
Diamond Jack: Your Magic or Your Life
Anna Rainbow
Chicken House ISBN: 978-1913322724
Time Travelling with a Tortoise
Al Chaudhury has successfully travelled back in time and saved his father’s life. So, everything is back to the way Al thinks it should be…only somehow it isn’t. And then an accident leaves Grandpa Byron struggling to remember things, forcing Al to travel in time once more and leaving someone trapped in the past and a pre-historic tortoise in the present. Al must somehow rescue his friend from the past and save the future for them all.
Clever and compelling, ‘Time Travelling with a Tortoise’ is a worthy sequel to ‘Time Travelling with a Hamster’! Told in a chatty, engaging style, the reader feels as if they had never left Al’s company and yet, those who have not read TTWaH will be able to enjoy this just as much as those that have.
Grandpa Byron is as charming and unique as ever and his relationship with Al wonderfully highlights the role which grandparents can play in the lives of their grandchildren. In his new ‘old’ life, Grandpa Byron seems to be the one constant for Al, making the accident all the more shocking. Unable to piece together events which have led to his friendship with Paulie MacFaddyen, nephew of his arch nemesis Macca, also causes complications- and encourages the reader to look beyond preconceptions and first appearances.
There is so much to enjoy in this wonderful story that it is hard to put down. Teachers will enjoy reading this aloud to their classes as much as the children will enjoy listening to it. It is sure to encourage much conversation- about time travel and much more! Highly recommended!
Time Travelling with a Tortoise
Ross Welford
Harper Collins ISBN: 978-0008544775
Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.
You can read my review of ‘Time Travelling with a Hamster’ here, ‘The Monkey Who Fell from the Future’ here and Into the Sideways World here.
Pirate Academy: New Kid on Deck
In 2507, a new age of piracy has arrived. Water levels have risen and the Pirate Federation controls the oceans as well as running nine schools around the world- Pirate Academies. Each Academy will only take 15 students a year, the finest from the most famous, ferocious pirate families. Jacoby Blunt and Jasmine Peacock are two of the students in Barracuda Class, taking lessons in Knots, Sailing and Combat. But these are dangerous times to be a pirate and when Jacoby’s roommate, Wing, is removed from the school by his parents, a new student, Neo Splice, mysteriously appears to take his place. With him, he seems to bring peril from the outside world and Barracuda Class find themselves facing a new and very deadly enemy.
I have huge affection for Justin Somper’s ‘Vampirates’ series as my son read these avidly and we regularly went to hear Justin speak at festivals. These books were also really popular in school and we were delighted to be able to organise an event for ‘Talk Like a Pirate Day’ in 2015 with Justin and Huw Powell. With this in mind, I was very excited to discover that Justin had written the first in a new series and I was not disappointed!
‘New Kid on the Deck’ is engaging from the outset as the reader is quickly drawn into the lives of Jacoby, Jasmine, Neo and their classmates, their lives at the Pirate Academy, the importance of their ‘pedigree’ and the dangers lurking in the outside world. The characters- students and their teachers- are well developed, full of the flaws and complexities which make them engaging and encourage the reader to feel invested in their adventures.
Without wishing to give too much away, the plot concerned with family, friendship, loyalty, lies, adventure and ambition is really well-paced and its conclusion offers surprises and great potential for the future of the series. ‘New Kid on the Deck’ is sure to be as popular as the Vampirates books and will be a welcome addition to bookshelves everywhere!
Pirate Academy: New Kid on the Deck
Justin Somper, illustrations by Teo Skaffer
UCLan ISBN: 978-1916747111
Published 7th March 2024
Adventuremice: Mice on the Ice
Pedro is happily settled into his new life with the Adventuremice, protecting the Mouse Isles from harm. Having previously lived beneath the floorboards of Hilltop House, he has never seen snow before and is very excited about learning how to skate and build snowmice- and about the Frost Fair which happens on Midwinter’s Day. But this year, there is so much ice that they have a serious problem on their paws. Some mice from the Frost Fair Organising Committee are stranded on the mainland where they have been gathering all the tasty treats for the Fair. It’s up to the Adventuremice to save the day!
There is so much to love about the Adventuremice books! Lavishly illustrated, these charming stories are perfectly pitched to engage and entertain young readers who are setting out independently as well making excellent read alouds to share again and again.
Each character is full of personality and children quickly identify their favourite - and perhaps see their own personality traits reflected in them. Pedro sometimes lacks confidence, but his big heart and enthusiasm make him an excellent member of the team. Fledermaus can be impulsive, but is brave and daring. Ivy is so creative, with her brilliant inventions helping the team with their rescues. These well developed characters are perfect for inspiring children to create their own stories about the team- and the ‘How to Draw’ guidance (it’s Ivy at the end of ‘Mice on the Ice’) is sure to inspire them to illustrate their stories as well. Drawing the characters becomes quite addictive as the careful, step-by-step instructions result in very successful pictures- and that success builds confidence!
In this adventure, there is just the right amount of peril, plenty of humour and a very happy ending, all perfect ingredients for a satisfying story. The next adventure is to be ‘Mice on the Moon’ and I am sure that there will be many readers waiting impatiently for this to appear!
Adventuremice: Mice on the Ice
Philip Reeve and Sarah McIntyre
David Fickling ISBN: 978-1788452694
You can read my review of ‘Adventuremice: Otter Chaos’ here.
We Are All Astronauts
Luna Scope, aged seven-and-a-bit Earth years is determined to be an astronaut. Full of enthusiasm, she is about to launch herself into her ambition, but fortunately, her granny is on hand to guide her with some excellent advice. Luna learns about spacesuits and telescopes, stars and space rocks, gravity and gravity. Granny also introduces her to some space heroes and over-looked animal pioneers whose achievements paved the way for the humans who followed.
Written in the same fun-filled, highly illustrated style as the ‘Fantastically Great Women’ series which Kate Pankhurst is so well known for, ‘We are All Astronauts’ is packed with information, sure to engage and fascinate. The author’s note explains her inspiration for writing the story came from the real-life story of the Mercury 13, a group of female trainee astronauts who never reached space because they were women. The book is brimming with positivity and inspiration, shining a light on the contributions of women, and proudly shouting the message that anyone can be an astronaut- or anything else- if they reach for the stars!
The joy of this book is that it will appeal to children of different ages who will read it in different ways. There is much to explore in the illustrations, Granny and Luna’s story to follow, biographical information, labelled diagrams, fact boxes… it is possible to read it in small snippets or as a whole, thoroughly enjoying it however it is tackled. Asterisks are used to indicate definitions of some of the technical vocabulary used, clearly explaining words to support the reader’s understanding without spoiling the flow of the text.
Perfect for using as a guided reading text, to support learning about space, as the basis for investigative play or as a basis for a book group session full of fun activities, ‘We Are All Astronauts!’ makes an excellent addition to any bookshelf!
We are ALL Astronauts Kate Pankhurst
Bloomsbury ISBN: 978-1526615435
Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.
Mermedusa
This fifth and final trip to Eerie-on-Sea concludes Herbie and Violet’s adventures and, like others I’m sure, I read ‘Mermedusa’ with mixed feelings- delight at another visit to one of my favourite fictional places and great sadness that there would be no more!
The hosts of the Anomalous Phenomena podcast have arrived in Eerie-on-Sea with the intention of uncovering the truth about the Malamander and broadcast this to the world. Already troubled by unsettling dreams and a strange humming throbbing through the town, Herbert Lemon, Lost-and-Founder at the Grand Nautilus Hotel, is horrified when his arch-nemesis, Sebastian Eels, re-appears in the town. Together, Herbie and Violet must discover the Deepest Secret of eerie-on-Sea- and ‘find’ themselves in the process.
‘Mermedusa’ is a stunning finish to what has been the most enjoyable series of books. Thomas Taylor cleverly draws all the threads of the story together, offering a satisfying conclusion to the mysteries of Eerie-on-Sea. Most importantly, Violet and Herbie have not only found themselves, but have found each other in a true and enduring friendship which really shows how opposites attract and complement each other!
Each character in these books is wonderfully unique and completely unforgettable from the Mermonkey at The Eerie Book Dispensary and Erwin the talking cat to the eccentric Lady Kraken who watches the town with her cameraluna and grumpy hotel manager, Mr Mollusc, who the reader learns more of in this final book.
As well as making an excellent series to be enjoyed and explored independently, these books are excellent for guided reading sessions or as whole class story time texts. Full of humour and heart, there are so many ways in which the ‘Eerie-on-Sea Mysteries’ are perfect for developing a love of reading.
Mermedusa Thomas Taylor
Walker ISBN: 978-1529502138
Published on 7th September
Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.
You can read my review of ‘Malamander’ here and ‘Festergrimm’ here. (Apologies that ‘Shadowghast’ is missing from the photo- it’s been borrowed!)
Crookhaven: The Forgotten Maze
Gabriel Avery is returning to Cookhaven for his second year, looking forward to seeing his friends, Amira, the Brothers Crimm, Ade and Ede, and Penelope Crook. But Penelope is far from friendly as her father and the co-headmaster, Caspian Crook, has forbidden her to see them or work as part of their crew. An almost impossible challenge, diving classes and the hidden Maravel’s Maze mean that Gabriel and his crew have a tough year ahead!
I really enjoyed the first ‘Crookhaven’ book which brilliantly set the scene for more adventures to come. Gabriel Avery is a very appealing character. Despite his criminal tendencies, his warm heart, loyalty and ability to see the best in others make him a very rounded, likeable lad. His devotion to his Grandma, the lady who has raised him, and his desire to see her happily settled is really lovely so it is not surprising that his kindness extends to others. Each member of the ‘crew’ brings their own strengths and their personalities complement each other, showing how much stronger they are when they work as a team.
The plot moves along at a very satisfying pace with teachers and pupils alike being pleasingly developed to create an engaging boarding school story with plenty of action and excitement. It ends with another dilemma for Gabriel which will keep readers on tenterhooks waiting for the next instalment! A great read!
Crookhaven: The Forgotten Maze
J J Arcanjo
Hodder ISBN: 978-1444965759
You can read my review of ‘Crookhaven: The School for Thieves’ here.
The Silver Road
Rosaleen Darke- Rose- is struggling at her new school. Tormented by Emer McGuire and her ‘fan club’ for being a scholarship pupil, Rose is also still grieving the loss of her Mamó, who she misses desperately. Taking the long way home from school, however, has the benefit of taking her past the shops of Gracie and Nellie with whom she has developed a friendship.
Unable to sleep one night, Rose hears noises and finds herself facing an ice giant, who entrusts her with a powerful stone which Rose must keep from falling into the wrong hands. Luckily Gracie and Nellie are not quite what they seem and are able to explain to Rose that she has been chosen as the stone’s guardian. As the Old Magic is weakening, evil is rising and Rose finds herself on a breath-taking quest to protect the Silver Road and the magic than runs through the land.
Well, what a story this is! Any attempt at a summary seems clumsy and cannot possibly capture the essence of this wonderful tale. Drawing on the age-old mythology of Ireland, ‘The Silver Road’ offers the perfect starting point for introducing readers to this wealth of stories whilst appreciating Sinéad’s skill as a storyteller as she adds plenty of imagination and flair of her own. I was captivated from the outset and could not put the book down and since finishing, have been inspired to revisit some of the old tales.
Rose is a brilliant character. Fresh and uncomplicated, she just wants to fit in and do her best. Although she has a loving, supportive family, like many, she doesn’t want to add to their worries by sharing her problems, particularly as her dad’s employer is Emer’s dad. She escapes into her books, but also takes comfort from the friendship she forms with Gracie and Nellie. They are incredible souls, not just because of their magic, but because of the kindness they show- and their love of cake! Catshee, the cat, not cat is possibly my favourite character, however, and shows how skilfully the author blends the traditional and the newly imagined to make a tale of wonder.
‘The Silver Road’ whispers to the reader of so many things- the importance of our environment, the magic of the old tales, our connection to the land and to one another, the importance of family, finding the strength to be yourself and have the determination and courage to face things life throws at you. It is a brilliantly crafted tale and I loved it. It would make an excellent guided reading text for the ‘right’ group of children or a gripping class story. So much to love!
The Silver Road Sinéad O’Hart
Piccadilly Press ISBN: 978-1800785090
Published 28th September 2023
The Time Tider
Mara and her father, Gabriel, live in their van and are constantly on the move. Her father is forever tinkering with watches, completely absorbed in his work, plotting the next stop on their never ending journey. Mara has never questioned their way of life until one day she discovers some papers hidden in the van referring to the to ‘the Tider’, someone responsible for harvesting lost time. Shocked and full of questions, Mara is left reeling when Gabriel is taken by a dangerous group who wish to use his powers for evil. Desperate for help, Mara tries to find her father’s friend, Lenny and meets a boy called Jan who seems determined to help her. Together, they must find Gabriel before it's too late.
My clumsy synopsis does not do justice to this brilliant book. It is such a well-crafted, absorbing story, set in a world where ‘spare’ time must be harvested by the Time Tider to avoid it gathering and causing warps; however, it also poses questions in the moral implications of someone having the power and responsibility this bestows and the potential for corruption and evil which might follow.
The author skilfully builds Mara’s world and the arts of the Time Tider with exerts from ‘The Time Tider’s Handbook’ being threaded through the story between chapters. Mara is a unique character. Isolated by their unusual lifestyle, their poverty and constant travelling, she is naturally distrustful and cautious, but also curious and courageous. You can’t help but cheer her on as she faces each challenge and decision she must take.
The Time Tider would make an excellent class read, sure to excite the imagination and lead to much discussion and exploration of ideas. I have loved each book by Sinead O’Hart, but feel this is her best yet!
The Time Tider Sinéad O’Hart
Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1788953306
Huxley and Flapjack: Race to the Rescue
Huxley is a little koala filled with energy and zest for life. Flapjack, his penguin friend, is far more anxious and cautious, but together, they make the perfect team. They live in a treehouse just outside the town and when a new store opens, they hop on their tandem to take a look. Although the manager isn’t entirely happy, they have lots of fun investigating everything from the revolving doors to the very bouncy trampoline in the sports department, but when Huxley is mistaken for a thief, they must come up with a plan to prove his innocence.
From its zingy yellow cover to its wonderful colour illustrations, this gorgeous early chapter book is bursting with energy and adventure, sure to capture the imagination- and hearts- of its readers. Huxley and Flapjack prove that opposites attract and that true friends can be quite different to you in both tastes and backgrounds.
Huxley is impulsive, acting before thinking things through, and sometimes (like when riding on the tandem) relying on Flapjack to do all the work. Flapjack is a more sensitive, gentle soul who tempers Huxley’s impetuous urges, yet benefits as the friendship encourages him to do things he might otherwise not do. There is much here to discuss with children who might see themselves in either character!
The illustrations are completely delightful, full of things to notice and smile about. Flapjack’s range of changing expressions is a priceless as he is caught up in Huxley’s madcap pace of doing things! The story could inspire many crafty activities, making it perfect for book group sessions as well as for enjoying at home or school. I could see this series making an excellent cartoon series as well!
Sure to become firm favourites, Huxley and Flapjack are highly appealing characters which children are going to want to read about. Great fun!
Huxley and Flapjack: Race to the Rescue
Alan MacDonald, illustrated by Francesca Gambatesa
Little Tiger ISBN: 978- 1788954174