Coming Up for Air

Leaving London to live in the seaside town where her mum grew up might not be Coco’s choice, but she’s determined to make the best of it. Although she’s excited about making new friends, the locals are hostile and resentful and her mum is keeping secrets from her. However, Coco is a positive young lady and her natural talent for free diving, love of the ocean and friendly demeanour soon start to win people round. But when an ill advised adventure goes wrong, history threatens to repeat itself…

I loved ‘Fig Swims the World’ and in ‘Coming Up for Air’, Lou Abercrombie offers another heroine with a unique voice and a passion for swimming. Whilst Min (her mother) and Henry, the uncle Coco never knew she had, bicker like children, Coco explores the area. No one has asked her whether she wants to leave her London life behind, but she is sure she will be able to make new friends. The town is picturesque and charming, but the attitude of the locals (known as ‘Fish’) is not and this worsens when they find that Min is Coco’s mother. Old tensions and feuds resurface, making Coco’s charm offensive fall on hostile ears. But still she persists, remaining stubbornly optimistic for the most part that she can win through. After all, with a mother like Min, she has developed a range of coping strategies that have seen her through life so far and now in Piscary, she also has the sea to help her find calm and joy.

Coco desperately wants to be a documentary maker and parts of the story are told as through she were creating one about her new life. As she records on her phone, the reader is treated to her internal monologue of events, including some humorous looks to camera moments which speak volumes! She learns much about herself, and others, as the story develops, emerging just as optimistic, but wiser at the end.

The story is full of vivid descriptions and Lou Abercrombie’s love of the sea shines through. The joys of freediving, the sense of freedom and connection to the underwater world are beautifully described, almost making me feel like sea swimming would be something to try… (Never in a million years- but that’s how good the writing is!)

‘Coming Up for Air’ is a great read, full of friendship, overcoming obstacles, humour and of course, the joys of swimming. With plenty of feel good factor, this story also offers much to think about and plenty of adventure. Highly recommended!

Coming Up for Air Lou Abercrombie

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1788953184

Yesterday Crumb and the Storm in a Teacup

Adventure and magic await in every teacup!

Born with fox ears, Yesterday Crumb is forced to work in the circus where she was abandoned. However, her life changes when she is rescued by a caustic raven called Madrigal and goes to live with Miss Dumpling at her magical tea shop with flamingo legs known as Dwimmerly End. Starting as an apprentice tea witch, Yesterday finds herself surrounded by incredible customers, flying teapots and magic. Here, she learns that she is a strangeling who has lost her magic and begins to feel that she has found her place in the world.

But a sinister figure called Mr Weep seems to be trying to ensure that things do not run smoothly for her…

Exciting and imaginative, ‘Yesterday Crumb and the Storm in a Teacup’ is an incredible read. I could not put it down and was completely absorbed into Yesterday’s world. Whilst there are sure to be comparisons with other magical adventure stories, Andy Sagar’s world building and attention to detail make it unique and special.

Yesterday- or Essie as she becomes known- is a wonderful character. Feisty and impetuous, she is also incredibly vulnerable, full of insecurities and questions about her past. This feeling of being different and being made to feel different is tackled throughout the story and Essie finds inner courage and self belief with the support of her new-found ‘family’ who all belong, no matter what. Mr Weep is a suitably despicable villain who seems intent on thwarting Essie’s happiness in her new life.

Who wouldn’t want to spend time in the teashop?! There is such joy in the descriptions of Miss Dumpling and her travelling teashop with its wonderful concoctions that everything is vividly brought to life and you can almost smell the Chimera Creampuffs and taste the Pearlescent Peppermint!

With so many characters to ‘do the voices for’ and being such an immersive treat for the imagination, ‘Yesterday Crumb and the Storm in a Teacup’ would make an incredible class story, no doubt inspiring children to create their own magical shops and get swept up in their own magical adventures. Such a treat!

Heart-warming and wholesome…there’s nothing that can’t be solved with a pot of tea and a slice of cake!

Yesterday Crumb and the Storm in a Teacup Andy Sagar

Orion ISBN: 978-1510109483

The Secret of the Treasure Keepers

Ruth lives in post-war London with her mother, who volunteers at the British Museum. Money is short as her parents are getting divorced and they might have to leave their much-loved home so her mother is keen to gain a paid position at the museum. However, irritable Mr Knight, curator of British Collections, has to be convinced and it is whilst her mother is at interview that Ruth answers the phone in Mr Knight’s office, taking a message from a lady from Rook Farm who has made a discovery. When circumstances mean Mr Knight does not get the message, Ruth and her mother embark on the long journey to Rook Farm, south of Ely, where treasure and adventure awaits…

‘The Secret of the Treasure Keepers’ is a beautifully written gem of a story which children will love. With atmospheric locations and plenty of secrets, there is so much to enjoy in these pages.

The story is full of wonderful characters- all hiding secrets- who the reader becomes really invested in as the story progresses. Ruth is easy to empathise with; desperate to keep her family home and happy memories, her efforts to support her mother are admirable and although she makes some blunders along the way, her determination to solve the mystery of the treasure is admirable. Joe, son of Mary Sterne, owner of Rook Farm, is also brilliantly observed.

The impact of the war is keenly felt throughout the story. Although set in 1948, times are still so hard for everyone with families suffering loss and food shortages and the landscape scarred by bomb damage. Many children’s stories focus on the war period, leaving children with a sense that when the fighting ended all returned to normal. ‘The Secret of the Treasure Keepers’ allows for discussions about the aftermath for everyday people, perhaps encouraging children to talk to those (like my parents) who experienced this time, developing their understanding.

If anyone manages to read this story without being inspired to take up archaeology, I shall be surprised! The excitement of the digs, the details of the finds are so brilliantly described it really makes the reader want to take part. The author’s note explores her own fascination with treasure seeking and her love of the British Museum, encouraging readers to visit and to see finds like the Mildenhall Hoard. The book would make an excellent class story to accompany work on the Anglo-Saxons and the discovery of Sutton Hoo- or simply as a story to enjoy. It would also be perfect for Guided Reading, offering much for a group to get their teeth into!

This is A M Howell’s fourth title- each is an excellent read!

The Secret of the Treasure Keepers A M Howell

Usborne ISBN: 978-1474991117

Out on 31.3.22

Wished

When Roo and her brother, Ed, find they are going to have to spend the half term holiday with their ancient neighbour, Miss Filey and her smelly cat, Attlee, they are less than impressed. However, the discovery of a box of birthday candles tucked into a drawer changes everything. When lit, each candle delivers a wish…

Lissa Evans is the author of books which I have frequently used in school. ‘Small Change for Stuart’ makes an excellent class read, with plenty to discuss and enjoy along with way and children then turn to ‘Big Change for Stuart’ as an independent read to find out more. ‘Wed Wabbit’ is brilliantly mad-cap and inventive, a firm favourite in the library. But in ‘Wished’, Lissa Evans has truly excelled herself and created something very special!

Humour- as ever- plays a huge role in the story telling and Attlee is without doubt one of my new favourite characters. This caustic, disgusting moggy captures a real sense of the feline-seemingly uncaring and self-centred, but with a golden heart! The children’s first impression of Miss Riley with her antiquated television and the idea that Why Fy is some kind of biscuit soon alters and a new friendship is formed, showing how important it is to get to know people and appreciate who they are. The ensuing wish adventures are wonderfully chaotic and full of imaginative details! Who hasn’t made a crazy wish when they’ve blown out a birthday candle?!

I love the way the relationship between siblings, Roo (or Lucy to give her her proper name) and Ed develops as the story progresses. They come to understand one another better through their adventures, finding new strengths. Their new neighbour, Willard, plays a role in this -’…you shouldn’t snap at your sister like that…’ whilst keeping up his act as the ‘class clown’.

The story is a fabulous celebration of seizing the day and acting on the moment. ‘…I never want to say, “ I wish I’d done that when I had the chance”.’ Everyone can relate to that feeling and Miss Riley learns a valuable lesson from her new young friends. It’s a brilliant read and one which I can’t wait to introduce children to!

For the teacher, ‘Wished’ would make an excellent Guided Reading text. There is so much to enjoy and discuss and plenty of places to pause and reflect on the characters’ feelings. Children would also really enjoy thinking about the wishes they might make and writing wish adventures of their own. They’ll never be able to look at a birthday candle in the same way again!

Wished Lissa Evans

David Fickling Books ISBN: 978-1788452021

Coming soon…

Flyntlock Bones Blog Tour

Today, I am delighted to have been asked to take part in the Blog Tour for ‘The Ghost of Scarletbeard’. There are lots of wonderful resources available on the Scallywag Press website to accompany this series (the chocolate ghosts have been added to my to-do list!), including teacher notes and a couple of board games!

The Countess of Bohemia’s jewels have been stolen by a ghost. Not just any old ghost, but the ghost of Captain Scarletbeard, the scariest pirate who ever lived!

Flynn and the crew of the Black Hound descend to the murky depths to Davy Jones’s Locker, where they uncover a ghoulish plot that threatens the survival of the Seven Seas…

‘The Ghost of Scarletbeard’ completes the trilogy of Flyntlock Bones stories. Flynn (Flyntlock Bones) is cabin boy aboard The Black Hound, an unusual pirate ship whose crew have left their piratical ways behind and are now pursuing a career in ‘pirate investigation’. Business is not booming and no parrots have flown in with the news of a job recently; however, when they hear that the Countess of Bohemia has (once again!) had her jewels stolen, they are quick to offer their services, leading them into an amazing adventure facing an iniquitous pirate, Captain Scarletbeard, and his witch partner, Molly Macbeth.

Full of fun and adventure, ‘The Ghost of Scarletbeard’ offers just the right level of piratical goings-on and dastardly deeds for younger children whilst introducing a wonderful range of characters and locations which are brought to life by Mark Elvins’ brilliant pictures. With lots of detail to pore over, the book offers a mixture of pages bordered with smaller illustrations and some wonderful full page spreads.

With the baddies getting their comeuppance and the good finding happiness, ‘The Ghost of Scarletbeard’ is a pacy, fun-filled adventure, perfect for pirate-loving landlubbers!

Flintlock Bones: The Ghost of Scarletbeard

Derek Keilty, illustrated by Mark Elvins

Scallywag Press ISBN: 978-1912650774

Thank you to the lovely people at Scallywag Press for inviting me to take part in this Blog Tour.

Call Me Lion

Leo dreams of dancing in a West End Show like ‘The Lion King’ and is excited about going to Just Jive, a summer dance school. But he is worried his selective mutism will put an end to his dreams of dancing at the end of summer show. When chatty, lovely Richa moves in nest door, Leo hopes he might have found a friend at last, one who doesn’t mind the fact that he can’t talk. However, Richa is hiding a secret of her own, needing Leo’s support just as much as he needs hers.

Heart-warming and poignant, ‘Call Me Lion’ is a much needed book which offers a voice to those with selective mutism and instills empathy and understanding into everyone who reads it. Desperate for a friend who will understand and value him, Leo reaches out to Richa and puts his trust in her. As Leo is well aware, everyone knows about his ‘secret’, but Richa’s bubbly personality and confidence are helping her to hide something herself. Together, they support and value each other, sharing a passion for dance and a genuine affection for one another.

Leo’s family are warm and wonderfully supportive. Camilla Chester has captured a real sense of the relationship between Leo’s brother, Ryan, and sister, Brianne, as the siblings bicker, yet their unity in the protection of their little brother is absolute. As thoughtless comments showing both a lack of understanding and sensitivity are made by both adults and children, the reader feels Leo’s distress as we share his thoughts about how his selective mutism controls him, about how unfair it is to believe that you ‘can’t be friends with someone who can’t talk’ and how he longs to share his joy and love of dance without being held back. There were several points at which I shed a few tears as the writing is beautiful.

I cannot recommend this book highly enough- as an excellent piece of writing as well as an inclusive, thought-provoking story. I can’t wait to get this into the library!

Call Me Lion Camilla Chester

Firefly Press ISBN: 978- 191302890

Published 16th June 2022

Three Girls

"We just want to show that friendships forged here are the real deal. Genuine. Built to last. That sort of thing. For the brochure. Do you mind?"

Their school may be making them pose together for photos - but Minnie, Lena and Alice are not friends. And they have other things to worry about. Minnie - The Athlete: her whole life has been sport - but what if that's not all she wants her life to be? How do you even start to change your future all by yourself? Lena - The Princess: she has always resented being in Minnie's shadow - so when a freak accident changes all of her arch-rival's plans, Lena has a chance to become Queen Bee at last. But is ruling the school all she dreamed it would be? And then there's Alice - The Really Tall One. Alice has friends already, she's even got her eye on a potential crush - but she's also got a secret. And that secret is about to bound into all three girls' lives and change them forever.

I absolutely loved this book. You know you are reading something special when you find you cannot put it down and ‘Three Girls’ did just that for me! Told from the viewpoint of each girl in turn, the story skilfully explores relationships and how these change and develop over time.

My favourite character, Alice, is brilliant. Although she seems to be navigating a happy path through life, she constantly faces comments about her size- ‘Big Alice’, ‘the Really Tall One’- and has a feeling that she no longer shares the same interests as her friends. Her initial attempts at running are hilarious and anyone who has taken a similar challenge on a whim will ruefully laugh along with her as she battles through. In contrast, Lena is completely caught up in her obsession with being the best. She comes to re-evaluate her long-term friendships, realising that people can change and grow apart. As other friendships open up for her and develop, she realises how easy it is to misjudge and misunderstand others. It is great to see how she develops as a person as she relaxes. Minnie’s accident, which is the catalyst for all the changes, not only encourages her to reconsider her future but her long-term relationship as well.

‘Three Girls’ is an incredibly accessible, enjoyable read with much to recommend it. I’d love to read more about these girls!

The Girls Katie Clapham

UCLan ISBN: 978-1912979806

You can read my review of ‘The Missing Bookshop’ by Katie in the ‘Reviews from Another Life’ section.

Suit Up. Step Up. It’s Time to Become a Hero!

Marvin loves reading about superheroes, but is stunned when his grandad passes on his superhero suit and robot sidekick, telling Marvin the suit is powered by kindness and imagination- two things Marvin has plenty of!

When the school Science Fair is thrown into chaos by a Mastermind supervillain and her giant robot, Marvin must suit up and step up to become the hero of the hour.

‘Marv and the Mega Robot’ is a very engaging and accessible read with plenty of action! Marv doesn’t believe he has what it takes to be a superhero, but as his Grandad says, ‘The sky’s the limit when you just believe in yourself.’ The relationship between them is delightful- warm and supportive- just what Marv needs to build his confidence.

A sweet, good natured boy, Marv is a true friend, making a dream team with his best friend, Joe, as they work together on their science project. As a superhero, Marv is marv-elous and Pixel makes the perfect side kick!

The second book, ‘Marv and the Dino Attack’ is every bit as appealing and engaging as the first. Highly illustrated by the excellent Paula Bowles, they are sure to appeal to those children who enjoying sharing a story with their parents and/or are independent readers, no doubt inspiring them to create their own superhero/ villain figures - perhaps based on themselves! I can see them creating their own ‘Top Trump’ style cards like those shown at the back of these books and using them to play games. The books would work well as guided reading texts, offering much to discuss and enjoy as well as a rich vocabulary to explore. They have a fabulous message at heart about kindness and imagination being what makes a true superhero…something we all need to realise! Brilliant stuff!

I hope there are many more in this series to come!

Marv and the Mega Robot

Alex Falase-Koya, illustrated by Paula Bowles

OUP ISBN: 978-0192780423

Marv and the Dino Attack

Alex Falase-Koya, illustrated by Paula Bowles

OUP ISBN: 978-0192780447

Christie and Agatha’s Detective Agency: Of Mountains and Motors

Twin sisters and detectives, Christie and Agatha, are delighted when they head off to Scotland to witness Mr Alexander Jr’s daring attempt to drive to the summit of Ben Nevis. However, not everyone is so thrilled by the prospect and it soon becomes clear that someone is trying to sabotage the expedition. Can the girls solve the mystery and save the day?

The second book in this series, ‘Of Mountains and Motors’ mixes historical detail and an entertaining story with some super sleuthing to create a fun, accessible read. Perfect for using as a guided reading text , there is much to enjoy in this slender volume.

Although twins, Christie and Agatha have very different personalities. Whilst Agatha enjoys reading and has dreams of becoming an author, her sister, Christie loves to climb trees and has a great interest in engineering. They make a lively combination, both bringing skills to the process of detection.

The stories full of references to the great Agatha Christie. From the children’s names to the fact they live in Torquay, location of Christie’s childhood home. I love the character of Auguste- Belgian and fastidious, he embodies Poirot and even makes mention of the ‘little grey cells’! It may well lead children to the world of Christie and her novels!

As well as offering an appealing mystery to solve, the story includes real people and real events. Arthur Conan Doyle makes an appearance and the attempt by Mr Alexander Jr to drive a Model T Ford to the top of Ben Nevis really happened. A note about these things is included at the back of the book, offering a starting point for those who would like to discover more!

Illustrated throughout by Roberta Tedeschi, ‘Of Mountains and Motors’ is an appealing and enjoyable story, perfect for newly independent readers! Can’t wait to read their next adventure.

Christie and Agatha’s Detective Agency:

Of Mountains and Motors

Pip Murphy, illustrated by Roberta Tedeschi

Sweet Cherry ISBN: 978-1782268154

Agent Zaiba Investigates: The Smuggler’s Secret

Zaiba and the other members of the UK branch of the Snow Leopard Detective Agency have joined the school History Club. When they learn there is to be an outing to Chisel Bay to see a shipwreck and a priceless artefact recovered from the wreckage. But, when the artefact goes missing, Zaiba’s investigative skills take over and she and her team are quickly on the case…

This is a fabulous series! Zaiba is everything you could want from a young detective- bright, methodical and determined, she closely observes the world around her as she makes her deductions. Through her relationships with others, the reader also knows her to be kind and loving. Although she and cousin Mariam have not always been close, Zaiba is prepared to build bridges and welcome her as a valuable member of the Snow Leopard team. Part of a very warm, loving and supportive family, each of whom plays a role in the stories, Zaiba still feels a close bond to her own mother, constantly consulting the annotated copies of the ‘Eden Lockett’ mysteries she inherited from her mother. Although this book is the fourth in the series, it could easily be read as a stand alone as Annabelle Sami does an excellent job of filling in the details as this story builds.

Through the children’s investigations and the History Club’s visit, the reader learns much about smugglers and the East India Trading Company. The story also raises questions about the rightful ownership of historical artefacts, challenging children to think whilst still enjoying the story. An additional note on this subject at the end of the story encourages readers to develop the historical skills of questioning sources and looking at a range of accounts and evidence.

This pacy adventure is an excellent read with plenty of suspects and red herrings to keep the reader guessing. Daniela Sosa’s illustrations add much to the enjoyment of this fresh mystery series. These stories would make brilliant read alouds for a class of budding sleuths and also engaging guided readers.

Agent Zaiba Investigates: The Smuggler’s Secret

Annabelle Sami, illustrated by Daniela Sosa

Make sure you read the other adventures in this series. My review of ‘The Missing Diamonds’ can be found in the ‘Reviews from Another Life’ section.

Me, in the Middle

As her class learn about family trees, Georgie is overwhelmed by feelings of uncertainty about where she belongs. However, once she starts working on the project with her parents, she soon realises that her family tree’s branches stretch far and wide and that her far-reaching roots make her proud. As the class compare their heritage, they soon realise that although all of their ‘trees’ look very different, they all have much in common.

Creating your family tree can be a very rewarding and fascinating thing to do, but it can also be an exercise fraught with difficulties and one which needs handling with the greatest sensitivity. Some children, like Georgie, might feel anxious because their family is not the same as that of their friends or classmates. This delightful, up-lifting story shows how, like real trees, families come in all shapes and sizes, but we are all rooted in the same rich earth.

I love the way the story links the idea of a family tree to the shape and size of real trees as different children compare how their families are formed with the trees in the park, acknowledging there are many ways to make a family unit and that each one is special. The story makes the point that you cannot define someone from looking at them- we are so much more than what can be seen at a first glance: wise words indeed!

‘Me, in the Middle’ would make an excellent addition to any book collection and is perfect for being at the heart of work about families. It would also be invaluable in PSHE sessions such as celebrating difference, relationships or being me in my world in both KS1 and KS2, with many ideas to explore. The addition of a blank tree with the title, ‘Make your own family tree’, might well inspire children to explore their own heritage, families and cultures. The illustrations throughout the book are delightful - a real celebration of classroom diversity and fun; however, they also are perfect for encouraging empathy as Georgie’s feelings are beautifully depicted.

Owlet Press are a fabulous independent publisher, offering titles which truly reflect and celebrate diversity and highlight more nuanced stories, making the reader pause and reflect deeply. ‘Me, in the Middle’ is another winner from their collection!

Me, in the Middle Annette Dimetriou, illustrated by Angela Mayers

Owlet Press ISBN: 978-1913339357

Out in March 2022

You can read my review of ‘Wild’ by Annette Demetriou and Dawn White in the ‘Reviews from Another Life’ section.

Dread Wood

Detention has never been so deadly…

Forced to attend a weekend detention, Angelo, Hallie, Gustav and Naira think that things can’t get any worse. However, when their teacher is dragged underground, things start to get really scary. With danger all around, their only hope of survival is to work as a team as they try to escape.

What a read! Jennifer Killick is well known for her excellent ‘Crater Lake’ stories, but she has completely outdone herself with this one. Managing a perfect balance of humour, suspense and creepiness, ‘Dread Wood’ is gripping from page one.

Jennifer Killick excels at capturing characters- getting their ‘voice’ just right so they are believable- and developing them so that the reader cares about what happens to them. Not a natural friendship grouping, Hallie, Angelo, Naira and Gus yet find themselves bound together by circumstances, forging a deep bond. Friendship and ‘fitting in’ are at the heart of the story, challenging initial perceptions and considering the reasons behind someone’s actions as well as their consequences. Although people do the wrong thing, their actions shouldn’t define them.

These characters are launched into a series of nail-biting moments where they are fighting for their lives. In places the tension is palpable, yet the story is pitch perfect for children in Y6/Y7, never becoming too gory or disturbing, but offering a regular frisson of excitement.

Another excellent read from the ‘queen of horror’!

Dread Wood Jennifer Killick

Farshore ISBN: 978-0755503711

Published March 31st 2022

Sabotage on the Solar Express

Hal and his Uncle Nat are on an adventure down under as billionaire August Reza has invited them on the first trip aboard the Solar Express, winner of the Reza’s Rocket competition. Although excited about the trip, Hal is not too enthusiastic at being reunited with Marianne, August’s daughter; however, she is convinced that something is amiss and seeks Hal’s help with investigating. Shortly after departure, they discover the train has been sabotaged and is hurtling across the outback, out of control. Can Hal and his friends stop the train and expose the saboteur before it’s too late?

I love this series so much! Always full of action, each book is fast paced and absorbing from the off and Solar Express is no exception.

As with Hal’s previous adventures, the setting for his train journey is vividly brought to life. Here, the sights of the Australian outback form the backdrop to their adventure with attention and respect being given to sites sacred to the indigenous peoples. Uncle Nat might quote the guide book entry about Uluru, but Aboriginal beliefs about human relationships with the earth and the respect it should be given are simply, but clearly explained within the framework of the story. The damage being done to the land through mining is also explored and the invention of the Solar Express has come from young Boaz’s (the fourteen year old inventor of the train) desire to use greener ways of powering trains. (There’s even a ‘science bit’ at the end of the book for those who want to know more!)

It is always a joy to read a story which is not only a cracking adventure, but is also full of ‘naturally occurring educational snippets’! Sounds awful, I know, but it’s meant as a great compliment! Whilst reading this adventure, children (and adults) find out (amongst other things) that for children in the outback, remote education is completely normal; that flying doctors take medical care to those in need; that camels were used to help build the Australian railways as well as environmental and scientific facts, allowing the reader to absorb additional knowledge with no effort at all! This adds such richness and colour to a story, making it all the more worth reading.

One of the greatest strengths of this series is the relationship between Hal and his uncle. Built on mutual respect and affection, the two make perfect travelling and crime busting companions. Elisa Paganelli’s wonderful depictions of Hal’s notebook are also a brilliant way of allowing the reader to ‘see’ what Hal has noticed, leading to the solution of the mystery.

Keeping you guessing until the very end, the story is absorbing with many nail biting moments. ‘Solar Express’ would make an excellent read aloud - sure to keep a class hanging on your every word- without needing to have read the previous books. It would also make a brilliant guided reading text, offering plenty to discuss and explore along the way.

‘Sabotage on the Solar Express’ is out in February- and I am already looking forward to ‘The Arctic Railway Assassin’ which is due in October! I’d like to put in a request for an adventure through the Rocky Mountains, a rail trip I took some years ago and loved!

Sabotage on the Solar Express M G Leonard and Sam Sedgman

illustrated by Elisa Paganelli

Macmillan ISBN: 978-1529072655

Swallow’s Kiss

Whatever her mother says, Blessing knows that she can remember the day that a swallow dipped into her pram and left a magic mark on her lip. Her ears are tuned to the city’s sky-song, the music of the birds. When she finds a lost bag of paper birds in the cafe where her mama works, she is delighted. She discovers they are Wish Birds, each carrying the written wishes of others, including Hani, whose wish is exactly the same as Blessing’s- to see their father. Keen to meet the owner of the bag and the Wish Birds, Blessing discovers a community who welcome her, bringing friendship, hope and the perfect surprise.

One of the ‘10 Stories to Make a Difference’ collection, ‘Swallow’s Kiss’ is a joyful story, full of hope and love. Blessing is living a new life in an un-named city with her mother and baby brother. Sita’s rich, evocative free-verse echoes the family’s love of song and allows the reader to see this new world through Blessing’s eyes, noting the colours and details, but also offers glimpses of the life left behind and the deep longing to see her father again. The story is perfect for developing empathy and understanding, with children creating their own Wish Birds.

The story is full of Jane Ray’s beautiful artwork which captures moments from the story perfectly- the longing in Blessing’s eyes as she lies in bed, the wish birds bursting from the bag, the energy and joy of the community coming together in the final spread.

An excellent addition to any book corner or library, ‘Swallow’s Kiss’ is a special, heart-warming story.

Swallow’s Kiss Sita Brahmachari, illustrated by Jane Ray

Pop Up Projects ISBN: 978-1838323509

Big Sky Mountain

When Rosa gets off the plane at Big Sky Mountain to live with a grandmother she doesn’t know, everything looks terrifying to someone who has never left the city. With no houses or shops for about 200 miles, her Grandma Nan is going to be her only company- and she seems to have forgotten that Rosa is coming. However, Rosa is soon captivated by the beauty and the wildlife surrounding Grandma Nan’s log cabin.

‘Big Sky Mountain’ is a real celebration of fresh air, connecting with nature and the interconnectivity of life on earth. Nature is celebrated on every page and readers are introduced to a whole host of animals, who Rosa is able to talk to and make friends with.

Like Alex’s excellent ‘Hotel Flamingo’ series, this book offers a cast of fabulous characters. Albert the apple loving moose, Little Pig the pygmy owl and Mr Hibberdee the bear are just a few who add much life and laughter to the story. Children would really enjoy creating their own characters to live on Big Sky Mountain, using Alex’s for inspiration. Grandma Nan and Rosa are also well formed and appealing. Rosa gains confidence when facing a completely new life, leaving behind all she knows, and Grandma Nan’s love of the outdoors, her energy and ‘can-do’ nature are an inspiration to us all!

The story also shows the importance of working together as well as looking after our natural world. Nan introduces Rosa to a whole new world of adventure in the outdoors- camp fires, sleeping under the stars, the many beauties of nature- which is sure to inspire Big Sky readers to explore for themselves. The book also includes a ‘can you find’ section at the end, encouraging children to examine the illustrations and identify different types of flora which could lead to trying to find and identify some when on walks themselves.

The book is generously illustrated with delightful pictures, offering plenty to interest and engage younger readers without detracting from the text. Children love a map and there is one at the beginning for children to follow Rosa’s adventures on.

Rosa’s adventures continue in ‘The Forest Wolves’ (out in February) when she and Nan are building an extension to Nan's cabin for Rosa to have her own room. When a storm arrives, so do all their animal friends- including a little wolf cub which leads Nan and Rosa to another adventure in nature.

Once again, the adventure offers much to enjoy and discuss. There are a new set of hidden species to find in the pictures and information about woodlands and ‘megafauna’ to enjoy. This is a series which will captivate young readers and open their eyes to the wonders of the natural world. I look forward to sharing these and any more adventures from Rosa with as many children as possible!

Big Sky Mountain Alex Milway

Piccadilly ISBN: 978-1848129726

Big Sky Mountain: The Forest Wolves Alex Milway

Piccadilly ISBN: 978-1848129733

Wolfbane

When I first read ‘Wolf Brother’, it had just been published and I was lucky enough to find a signed, hardback copy on a table at my local Waterstones. Instantly captivated, I knew then that I had found a treasure to share both with my own son and with the children I teach. Twenty odd years later, it is still a book I reach for when I want to inspire a class and it is still works its magic every time!

I was absolutely thrilled when I heard Michelle Paver speak at Hay a couple of years ago and she explained that she was writing another three books about Wolf, Torak and Renn. The first two of these, ‘Viper’s Daughter’ and ‘Skin Taker’ lived up to my every expectation, transporting me back to Torak’s world as if I had never left. The arrival of ‘Wolfbane’ filled me with equal measures of excitement about discovering what happens and sadness in the knowledge that this is their final story.

With this in mind, it is essential that nothing is given away here about the dramatic conclusion to this much-loved series. The writing is as effortlessly beautiful as ever, with vivid descriptions and compelling characters. Michelle immerses the reader in the period, drawing on her meticulous research and personal experiences to create the richly detailed world of the Stone Age.

Although this adventure could be enjoyed as a stand alone, it is best read as part of the series as all the threads gather together to the final conclusion. So much has happened to Torak and Wolf since their first meeting and their bond remains as strong as ever so when Wolf is swept far from the Forest he loves on breaking ice, Torak will do anything to follow his pack brother and save Wolf from the demon stalking him. Full of suspense and action, Torak and Renn must use all their knowledge and skill and draw on bonds of friendship and loyalty for the final confrontation. No lover of the ‘Chronicles of Ancient Darkness’ is going to want to miss this!

Wolfbane Michelle Paver

Zephyr ISBN: 978- 1789542448

Coming April 2022

Dragon Storm: Tomás and Ironskin

There are no longer any dragons in the land of Draconis. Once humans and dragons lived there together in friendship, creating Rivven, the great city, together. But the Dragon Storm, a great battle, changed this, forcing dragons to retreat from the human world, leaving humans believing these great creatures to be myths.

Growing up with these beliefs, young Tomás, a blacksmith’s son, is stunned when he is invited to join the Dragonseer Guild. He discovers not only that dragons exist, but that he can summon his very own, Ironskin. But adjusting to this new life is not easy, leaving Tomás with a difficult choice to make.

Having loved ‘Orion Lost’ and ‘Adam 2’, I had high expectations of ‘Dragon Storm’ - and wasn’t disappointed. Alastair Chisholm has worked magic with this title, managing to offer developed characters (human and dragon), a well imagined world and a convincing storyline in a book which is short and accessible yet doesn’t ‘dumb down’ the language used. Perfectly pitched for younger readers, this is the first in a series which is sure to be very popular.

Tomás is an appealing character who will be easy for children to relate to. Close to his parents, he is keen to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a blacksmith, yet his curiosity is piqued when he is offered the chance of a different life. That he finds himself a member of a secret society with a dragon companion is a dream which will appeal to so many young readers- and the other children and their dragons offer plenty more adventures to come.

Although obviously perfect for independent reading, ‘Tomás and Ironskin’ would also work very well as a guided reading text, readily engaging children’s interest and offering plenty to discuss and explore. Children would love to create their own dragons or create Top Trump style cards for the dragons and their dragonseers. The story’s illustrations are also sure to further engage children and encourage them to draw their own dragons.

Looking forward to reading book 2- ‘Cara and Silverthief’ - which is out now with more titles in the series coming soon!

Dragon Storm: Tomás and Ironskin

Alastair Chisholm, illustrated by Eric Deschamps

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1839940064

Pizazz vs Perfecto

Being super is not easy…

Pizazz is 9 1/2 (finally!), super (in terms of being a super hero) and she still is not at all keen on this role. She finds being super super un-super and her *eye roll* super power SUPER embarrassing. On top of this, she has to deal with super villains- like Perfecto. Being younger, she should be no match for Pizazz, but then Perfecto is…well, perfect. Perhaps Pizazz just needs to beat her at her own game and hatches the perfect Perfecto plan to be perfect in every single way…

The third book in the series, ‘Pizazz vs Perfecto’ is every bit as enjoyable as the previous books. Overflowing with Sophy Henn’s fabulous illustrations, the story is told through the perfect balance of text, comic strip sections and illustrations, making it an accessible and entertaining read.

Sophy has an amazing talent for being able to capture situations and emotions and bundling them up in appealing stories which make them excellent for initiating discussions and developing empathy. In her ‘Pom Pom’ books, for example, she explores the ‘grumps’, what happens when we don’t always win and finding our talents in a way which children (and adults!) can both relate to and sympathise with. Although ‘Pizazz vs Perfecto’ is brimming with humour and Pizazz’s eye-rolling take on life, Sophy also gently makes the point that being ‘perfect’ is like trying to achieve the impossible all the time. Not only is it exhausting, it actually makes you miss out on all the fun bits of life and causes you to feel anxious. Pizazz might not be ‘perfect’, but her good-natured, big-hearted, slightly chaotic self is loveable just the way she is. Comparing yourself to others- whether friends or siblings- is never going to make you feel good about you!

Pizazz is extremely popular with children in my class. Initially attracted by the bright covers and dynamic illustrations, they quickly become engaged with Pizazz as a character, enjoying her battles with baddies and her struggles with being a super. One child recently declared that these were ‘the best books ever’ and is already looking forward to the next one!

Although appealing to early readers, these stories should not be underestimated. In addition to encouraging empathy and exploring feelings, work based around these books could encourage children to create their own comic strips/ graphic novels and develop their own characters. The books also lend themselves to plenty of drama and writing in role- and there is plenty of fun that could be had exploring how Sophy uses grammar and punctuation (yes, I know some people will think this is a contradiction-fun/grammar- but it’s all about how you do it!).

The ‘perfecto’ story!

Pizazz vs Perfecto Sophy Henn

Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1471194177

Pizazz’s first two adventures are ‘Pizazz’ (978-1471193989) and ‘Pizazz and the New Kid’ (978-1471194153). The stories do not need to be read in order as Pizazz is very good at filling the reader in with what’s happening in her life!

Mort the Meek and the Monstrous Quest

Having decided she is a god, the Queen of Brutalia has offered a prize to anyone bold enough to take to the seas and return bearing treasure. Mort is amongst the brave adventurers who set sail, but he is motivated by the desire to find his father and the twins, Gosh and Gee, rather than bringing the Queen riches. Although his sailing partner was supposed to be Weed, best friend and fellow pacifist, Mort has ended up sharing a boat with Punky Mason, a rock-crusher’s daughter and pacifist’s nightmare. When they find evidence of the legendary sea-monster, the Belgo, peace loving Mort is convinced it is responsible for the disappearance of his family and becomes consumed by the desire for revenge. Will he be able to stick to the Pacifist Promise?

Full of quirky humour, this deliciously dark tale is brimming with word play and fun. Each chapter is introduced by lobsters, Larry and Bruce, who continue the tradition of corny jokes started by the ravens in book one. The Queen/ God Queen’s alarming fashion sense (tarantula leg eyelashes!) is only slightly outdone by her imaginative and dastardly Punishments of the Day- all of which are sure to make the reader chuckle. Anb bon’t unberestimate the denefits of deing adle to recognise ‘b’ anb ‘d’ either!

Although Mort ends up partnered with Punky, who initially seems like his worst nightmare, the two form a strong partnership and Mort realises that appearances can be deceiving. Having let his fury cloud his judgement, ultimately, Mort stays true to his beliefs and remains Mort the Meek, the gentle pacifist we came to love in the first book, rather than becoming Mort the Murderer.

The story is brilliantly illustrated by George Ermos who captures many scenes, using a mixture of full page pictures as well as smaller ones through the text. Larry and Bruce appear at the beginning of each chapter and their range of expressions is incredible!

Ono (from book one) is only mentioned in passing in this story, which is a shame, but perhaps that little mention is hint of another book including her to come? We can only hope so. Meanwhile, Mort learns there ‘is beauty wherever you look for it’ and almost everyone lives happily ever after…But, in a land like Brutalia, who can tell what might happen next?!

Mort the Meek and the Monstrous Quest

Rachel Delahaye, illustrated by George Ermos

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1788953153

NB: Teachers- just be aware that ‘sod off’ is used a few times in the text!

Escape to the River Sea

Inspired by Eva Ibbotson’s classic, ‘Escape to the River Sea’ opens with the story of Rosa Sweetman, a young girl who arrived in England as part of the Kinderstransport. When no one comes to meet her, Rosa finds herself in the care of Sir Clovis and living at Westwood Estate, initially in the company of other schoolgirls evacuated from their city homes. Once the other children leave at the end of the war, Rosa remains, longing to be reconnected with her mother and sister who she parted from in Vienna. Although Sir Clovis and his wife, Lady Prue, are kind to her, Rosa longs for adventure and when a friend of the family, Yara Fielding, arrives for a visit, Rosa asks to accompany her to the Amazon in search of the giant sloth.

Captivated by the lush beauty of the rainforest, Rosa meets Yara’s lively family, who live on the banks of the river, and finds herself caught up in the adventure of a lifetime.

In ‘Escape to the River Sea’, Emma Carroll has achieved a perfect balance of her own voice and staying true to Eva Ibbotson’s original story. The story features familiar characters and locations from ‘Journey to the River Sea’ whilst introducing the next generation. Rosa is a very engaging young girl, whose hopeful nature has kept her optimistic about being reunited with her mother and sister, and whose love of animals has sustained her during her loneliness. With the new-found freedom of her trip to the Amazon, Rosa flourishes in a way she was not able to at Westwood.

Each setting is vividly described with the beauty of the rainforest and its creatures celebrated whilst highlighting the threats it is facing.  Emma Carroll also broadens the story, developing a new thread and mystery to solve, but I don’t wish to give any spoilers..!

‘Escape to the River Sea’ would make an excellent Guided Reading text or work brilliantly as a whole class book for a class read or as a focus text. There are many elements in the story to investigate and discuss and which could offer inspiration for different forms of writing, including poetry. Emma’s vivid scenes and the rich language she uses are a joy to explore.

One not to miss, ‘Escape to the River Sea’ is a fabulous read!

Escape to the River Sea Emma Carroll

Macmillan ISBN: 978-1529062700

Published 9th June 2022

This beautifully illustrated 20th anniversary edition of ‘Journey to the River Sea’ makes the perfect gift.