Blog Tour: The Map of Leaves

I am delighted to be part of the blog tour for this fabulous book and share my review. ‘A Map of Leaves’ is a must read so I hope you will borrow or buy a copy and enjoy it as much as I did!

Living alone since her Ma died, Orla tends her beloved garden, listening as the plants whisper to her. When sickness comes to the village of Thorn Creek where she lives, Warden Atlas claims that the wild is the cause and must be destroyed. Armed with her Ma’s book, ‘Plants and their Medicinal Uses’, Orla is determined to find a cure and prove the warden wrong and hides on a boat heading upriver to find the truth. Used to being alone, she finds herself unwillingly teaming up with Idris and Ariana, who are also keen to find a cure for this mysterious illness, on a dangerous adventure from which they might never return.

‘The Map of Leaves’ is a wonderful adventure, set in an atmospheric world. Nature is key to the story and the healing power of plants and the importance of wild spaces are celebrated on every page. Each chapter begins with a plant, its Latin name and a brief description of its properties, encouraging the reader to learn more about the plants around us and reminding us of just how much nature gives us. These early remedies and cures are completely fascinating, sure to spark interest and encourage conversations about the development of medicines we have today.

The story also makes us reflect on the impact humans can have on the environment- how nature needs its wild spaces to thrive and for us to thrive in return. It also considers how those with power and wealth can abuse this in pursuit of personal gain and how those who set the rules do not always follow them- sound familiar?! Warden Atlas is ruthless, showing scant regard for anyone or anything, making him easy to despise.

Orla has a deep connection with nature and a deep distrust of those around her. The loss of her mother from the mysterious sickness is so raw that she has closed in on herself, shunning support or comfort from others. As the story develops, she gradually grows to care for and trust Idris and Ariana, although initially she is quite prickly and difficult to be with. Fiercely determined to find a cure for the sickness-Mapafoglia (‘the map of leaves’ named for the lines like an inky map which appear on the skin of those infected)- and to restore her beloved plants to health, she makes mistakes along the way, but learns from them and becomes a stronger person- and one that is far more likeable at the end.

The book would be excellent for guided reading, offering much to think about and discuss as well as a gripping story which children will love. As well as following a quest, the story also shows how Orla changes as a result of her experiences, finding her place in the world, surrounded by the plants that she loves. The book could also be used very successfully as a class text, offering many opportunities to pause and reflect, write in many different ways, research and enjoy a cracking story; however, for me, the attention rich setting of guided reading would work best!

‘The Map of Leaves’ is definitely one not to be missed!

The Map of Leaves Yarrow Townsend, illustrated by Marie-Alice Harel

Chicken House ISBN: 978-1913696481

Many thanks to Laura for inviting me to join this blog tour! Make sure you enjoy some of the other stops in the tour as well!

Our Sister, Again

Isla and her family live on the small island of Eilean Dearg in the Outer Hebrides. Grieving the loss of her older sister, Flora, the family is struggling to cope when Isla notices an advertisement for a support group. Little does she know when she fills this in that the family will be offered the chance to be part of a top-secret trial, recreating Flora as an AI robot. Initially sceptical, Isla’s doubts disappear when ‘Flora’ arrives on the island- it’s as if her sister has truly returned home. But not everyone feels the same way and tension mounts as anonymous threats are made.

A compelling and thought-provoking story, ‘Our Sister, Again’ is a brilliant read. Isla’s family are devastated by Flora’s loss, but whilst her mother grasps at the chance to have her daughter back in this way, her father has many reservations about the project, causing the family to split. The story raises plenty of questions, challenging the reader to think about life, loss and what really makes us who we are, developed by the different points of view raised by various characters through the story as they react to Flora’s return.

Family and friendship are at the heart of the story and each character is well developed and believable. The relationship between the sisters is beautifully handled, particularly that between Isla and her younger sister, Una, whose bond has grown in the face of the family’s grief. There are many poignant moments as the story develops, leading to an interesting and unexpected conclusion.

An excellent book- highly recommended!

Our Sister, Again Sophie Cameron

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1788953917

Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.

Alice Austen Lived Here

A competition for a new statue of a local historical figure leads Sam and their friend, TJ, to design a statue of Alice Austen. Both children identify as nonbinary and want to see the LBGTQIAP+ community represented in their area. Through their research, Sam finds a further link- not only was Alice Austen queer, she had also lived in Sam’s apartment. Winning the competition becomes even more important to Sam as their history teacher, Mr Watras, seems only interested in white, male figures as inspiration for the statue. With the help of their neighbours, Sam pursues their idea, determined to celebrate the life of Alice Austen and their community.

‘Alice Austen Lived Here’ is a real celebration of queer history and culture. In the face of their teacher’s prejudice and closed mind, Sam is determined to give a voice to the rich history of their community and spread awareness of the contribution made by Alice Austen and use the past to create a more positive future in terms of representation.

Sam is a wonderful character, very comfortable in their own skin and surrounded by a strong and loving network who support them. Their best friend, TJ, is also nonbinary, but although they are the only nonbinary children in their year ( as far as they knew), this is just one of the many things they have in common. One floor below Sam’s flat lives their other best friend, Jess, who is femme, her partner, Val, who is nonbinary and their baby, Evie. Although much older than Sam, they offer advice and support and through conversations Sam has those around them, the reader gains a deeper understanding of their community and history. The story also show Sam and Jess as being overweight and very comfortable in their own skins.

As a reader with little knowledge of this area of America, details about Staten Island are fascinating and I love the fact that the novel celebrates a little known historical figure. Just as Sam stubbornly pursues their research, the story encourages us all to look beyond the white men who are those mostly celebrated in history books- and indeed, statues- and look for those lesser known, but highly significant figures which history taught in schools and through film/television completely neglect. Alex Gino has included a selection of photographs with notes at the end of the book which further interest the reader in this remarkable woman and includes a very interesting author’s note which adds to the story. As TJ and Sam pursue their research, they visit the house Alice lived in before she moved to Sam’s apartment which is actually a museum as described in the book. Sadly, it is much to far for me to visit, but the story inspired me to look at their website to find out more about Alice and her family.

‘Alice Austen Lived Here’ is a thoroughly engaging and thought-provoking read.

Alice Austen Lived Here Alex Gino

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702316166

Alice Austen Lived Here Alex Gino

Scholastic ISBN: 978-1338733891

The Strangeworlds Travel Agency: The Secrets of the Stormforest

A belated happy birthday to L D Lapinski whose birthday was yesterday!

Jonathan and Flick discover that an organisation, not unlike The Strangeworld’s Society, known as ‘The Seren’ are threatening the multiverse, destroying worlds by draining their magic. Although they had been trapped in a world they called Serentegra, they are now free once more and are hunting the suitcase that contains the end of the multiverse. Flick, Jonathan and their friends must find this case first and uncover the secrets of The Strangeworlds Society before it’s too late.

‘The Secrets of the Stormforest’ is the stunning conclusion to the incredible ‘Strangeworlds’ trilogy which has captivated so many children (and adults!). It is always tricky to review the finale to a series for fear of giving things away and spoiling the story for other readers, but I will try!

Throughout the series, each place the children visit is vividly described with a richness of detail which makes it a joy to read. One of the places they journey to in this book is Pendularbor which, with its three suns and sentient plants, is incredibly imagined.

Flick’s strength of character and determination really shine through in this story as she courageously faces events and possibilities which threaten everything she knows and loves. She really begins to believe in herself and what she can achieve, but is also touched by deep grief and regret as events unfold. The supportive love of family and friends once again shines through in this book as her quest is full of action, peril and uncertainty. The Seren are decidedly sinister and the children’s encounters with them are chilling.

It is always sad to reach the conclusion of a series which you have really enjoyed, but ‘The Secrets of the Stormforest’ brings everything to a very satisfying conclusion, leaving the reader full of hope and happiness for Flick and her friends.

An action-packed, brilliantly crafted read, ‘The Secrets of the Stormforest’ is not to be missed!

The Secrets of the Stormforest L D Lapinski

Orion ISBN: 978-1510111035

You can read my reviews of the first two books in this series here.

The Hunt for David Berman

Yesterday, as part of the Blog Tour for this book, I shared a fascinating interview with author, Claire Mulligan about how she started writing and her journey to getting published. I really enjoyed this story and so today, here is my review.

Robert and his little sister, Elsa, have been evacuated from London to his grandparents’ farm in Scotland whilst his father is fighting in the war and his mother is in the Wrens. Finding it hard to adjust to farm life and missing his parents, he explores the caves along the coast, hoping to find the treasure his grandfather’s stories are full of. Instead of pirate gold, he finds a young boy, David, who has been living there. A Kindertransport child, David was fostered by a family on a nearby farm who were cruel, leading him to run away. However, David is unaware that he is carrying something with him which the Gestapo are trying to track down and a secret agent has been instructed to hunt for David Berman.

‘The Hunt for David Berman’ is an exciting, pacy thriller of a tale which keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. It offers a traditional romp of an adventure, but one full of historical detail- a perfect combination!

The boys are both very sympathetic characters and their friendship is one built on mutual trust and respect. It is great to see kind, sensitive children at the heart of an adventure like this. Both are separated from loved ones that they are constantly worried about, both have been taken from the lives which they know and can empathise with the other’s experience, offering comfort and support. Robert is genuinely concerned about his friend’s welfare and seeks to help him at every opportunity.

As he shares his memories with Robert, David’s experiences clearly expose the impact of war on the individual. He has experienced the terror of the Nazi’s actions against Jews, seen those he thought to be friends turn against him, lost his father and had to leave his mother and grandmother behind whilst fleeing to an unknown land. Having experienced all of this, he is then exposed to a brutal foster father who sees him as labour on his farm. His friendship with Robert offers him emotional as well as practical support. Although Robert has fared better than David, he also is finding his situation difficult to cope with, resulting in bad dreams which lead to bed wetting.

Scenes in the story focusing on the Gestapo and their hunt for the codebook which has been hidden in David’s suitcase are suitably sinister and there are some very tense moments in the story. However, the ending is deeply satisfying for those who have been caught up in the boys’ story.

‘The Hunt for David Berman’ would be a great book to use in school, both as an excellent story and as the starting point for discussions about events during the Second World War. It also offers much in terms of developing empathy and exploring the importance of getting to know others.

The Hunt for David Berman Claire Mulligan

The Moth ISBN: 978-0956979575

Out 5th May 2020

The blog tour continues…

Blog Tour: The Hunt for David Berman

Today, author Claire Mulligan joins me for the third stop on her blog tour for her debut novel, The Hunt for David Berman, to talk about how she started writing and her journey to getting published.

My Writing journey

When I was thirteen years old I wrote a story for an English class, my very first piece of writing set by my rather formidable teacher in my first year of secondary school. Mr Noonan liked the story so, rather than flinging my copybook to me across the class (which he had done to every other student), he asked me to come up and read it out loud. As I read and my classmates laughed at the funny bits and Mr Noonan smiled encouragingly I saw firsthand the power of the written word. As a child I loved reading and trips to the local library were a weekly occurrence and, under the guiding eye of Rose the librarian, I read a vast amount. Fast forward several decades and as a busy mum I wrote snippets here and there in my spare time. There were lists of words I liked, diaries I managed to keep for only a short time, surnames of people and interesting names over shop fronts, town lands, lines from poems. At that time I worked as a Montessori teacher and story time and picture books were a huge part of the children’s daily life. I read to my own children at home, stories on the sofa in front of the fire, board books the baby chewed on, bedtime books to help us settle down to sleep and I loved all of these books as much as my children did. I loved seeing how utterly engrossed they were in the characters lives or in whatever exciting adventure was happening in the book. I wrote a couple of children’s short stories and they were published in The Caterpillar Magazine. I also wrote a short story (this time for adults) which won third place in the RTE Radio 1 Short Story competition. And these two things really helped to build my confidence. I spent more time day dreaming and thinking of stories. I would walk the dogs each morning and slowly on these walks the beginnings of another story came. I wrote when I got the chance, moments of quiet in the day when the children were at school or late in the evening when the house was finally wrapped in sleep.  I wrote more and more and as this story unfolded it began to change from story length to book length. And so here we are, The Hunt for David Berman is what that story turned into! I was glad to let the characters of Robert and David step out of my imagination and onto the page. When you have a story in your head it’s often all you can think of.  Now I’m working on another book, this time set in 17th century Ireland - it features changelings, old magic and the Otherworld and those characters are dying to have their story told too...

The Hunt for David Berman by Claire Mulligan is published by The Moth on 5th May 2022, £8.99 paperback.

The Secret Sunshine Project

Shortly after the death of their father, Bea, Riley and their mum leave their home in London to stay with their Gran in the country. Last summer, after Riley had come out as gay, the family had had the best day ever at London Pride and memories of this special, colourful day make their current situation seem all the more bleak. As Bea makes new friends, she is concerned by her sister’s sadness and decides to create an event that will put the smile back on her face. However, the village is dominated by the unpleasant Rita Ruckus who is determined that nothing will get in the way of her summer fete…particularly not Bea’s Secret Sunshine Project.

‘The Secret Sunshine Project’ is a delightful story of kindness, love and courage. Bea’s family is close knit, loving and supportive and this shines through in the way in which they throw themselves into the Pride celebrations to support Riley. The joyful descriptions of these celebrations, full of colour, excitement and laughter, are wonderful to read and create a stark contrast to everyone’s emotions following the death of their father. The story clearly shows how grief affects different people in different ways and how people cope with the overwhelming emotions it causes. Bea feels she has to be strong for others, Riley becomes withdrawn and angry and mum struggling to help them whilst coping herself.

The story overflows with fabulous characters- each worth a mention! Bea is just delightful and her devotion to her sister, whilst coping with her own grief, is beautifully captured. Although her summer plans have been ruined, she is determined to make the best of her new situation and bring happiness to others. Gran is the best ever- such a strong, determined woman with such pizazz and such heart- I’d love to have her on my side in an argument!

Understanding and acceptance are strong themes through the book and its positive ending leaves the reader with a real feel-good factor and plenty of hope for the future. Sandhya Prabhat’s fabulous illustrations capture the mood and heart of the story perfectly with the cover illustration being a personal favourite.

A fabulous book for sharing for so many reasons, ‘The Secret Sunshine Project’ is a brilliant story full of a few tears and lots of love and laughter!

The Secret Sunshine Project

Benjamin Dean, illustrated by Sandhya Prabhat

Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1398517875

Originally reviewed for Reading Zone

The Rewilders

Esme is annoyed and braced for boredom when she’s sent to stay with her gran for the weekend, until she discovers a terrible mistake. Cora, the abandoned kitten Gran found on the Rothiecraig Estate, is in fact a wild lynx kit and she is growing—fast!

Suddenly, Esme find herself on a dangerous mission to rewild Cora, along with Callum Docherty for company, the school’s ‘bad boy’, and Shug, the worst guard dog in the world.

The situation takes a terrifying turn when the children pitch their tents on a bleak Highland moor and hear wolves howling outside… (synopsis from book cover)

‘The Rewilders’ is a wonderful read, a compelling mixture of adventure and the importance of true friendship with a healthy dose of environmental and conservation issues, offering the reader plenty to think about.

Esme and Callum’s relationship handled with great skill by the author. Esme is part of a group of ‘friends’ who torment Callum at school. These ‘good’ girls provoke him, causing him to end up in trouble whilst they escape without blame. Callum lives with foster mother, Sadie, feeling settled at last after a series of unhappy placements. Supportive and nurturing, this has been his longest-and happiest- placement, if not for school. The narrative is told from alternating perspectives and Esme is forced to consider her attitude towards Callum and through this to re-evaluate her friendship with the other girls in her class, particularly Isobel. Sadly, there are sure to be many readers who will empathise with her concern about getting on the wrong side of this ‘friend’, hopefully leading to discussions and better understanding of the negative nature of this type of ‘friendship’.

The countryside in all its glory is vividly described and the joy and healing power of nature works its magic on the reader as well as the children. The topic of rewilding is sensitively explored with a balanced view being offered and the feeling that compromise and co-operation are needed to make such projects successful.

‘The Rewilders’ is an excellent read with a beautiful cover that has much to offer readers looking for something a little different.

The Rewilders Lindsay Littleson

Cranachan Publishing Limited ISBN: 9781911279938

The Insiders

Callie, Nico, Ted and Zara are really close friends. Ted lives next door to Callie whose mum looks after him and the others after school. However, since an embarrassing incident at school, Ted has become quieter than ever, withdrawing from the group. When they notice a light on in school after hours, Callie, Nico and Zara decide to investigate. Watching from his garden, Ted can’t believe his friends have not included him…

Cath Howe is an outstanding author whose books are so easy to read whilst sensitively exploring the feelings and worries of her characters. Each of her books to date has been a brilliant read and ‘The Insiders’ is no exception.

The story is told from the viewpoint of Callie, Ted and one of their classmates, Billy, who was responsible for Ted’s embarrassment. Through their eyes, the reader sees how easily things can be misinterpreted or misunderstood and the dangers of bottling feelings up and keeping them inside. There are many points in the story where an apology, persisting with a friend when they need support or seeking help might have helped things turn out differently.

For a teacher, there are some very uncomfortable moments in this story. The bullying Mr Dunlop is of a breed I had hoped had died out and surely someone in school should have picked up that something was not quite right with Billy’s situation, but this in itself raises much to discuss and explore.

The story also reminds the reader that you never really know what is going on in someone else’s life. With a class, there are many opportunities for role play and hot-seating activities, allowing children to explore different perspectives and consider how different characters were feeling, why they acted as they did and so on. This could be further explored through writing poems capturing those emotions or perhaps paintings to express their feelings.

Another not-to-be-missed gem from Cath Howe!

The Insiders Cath Howe

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1788006125

Out 5th May 2022

Starfell: Willow Moss and the Magic Thief

Having recently fought dangerous wizard, Silas, Willow Moss has been drained of her magical powers, but the danger to Starfell is far from over. With the help of her friends, Willow decides to go in search of the legendary Craegun, a powerful creature believed to be able to restore anything which has been lost, who lives in the mountains of Nach. Willow knows there will be a heavy price to pay, but Starfell and everything she loves is in danger, leaving this brave young witch determined, once again, to do her best.

The ‘Starfell’ series has been incredible and this latest (but I hope not last!) visit to Willow’s world is every bit as wonderful as the others. Full of endearing and engaging characters, the stories celebrate friendship, loyalty and believing in yourself.

Willow is so lovely. Over the course of the books, she has grown in confidence and has come to value her abilities whilst remaining kind, thoughtful and sensitive to the needs of others. Through her gentle nature, she inspires loyalty and love from those she meets- finally, her sisters recognise her worth, giving her due credit! Names (always so important to me!) have been so carefully chosen, adding to each character and Oswin continues to capture everyone’s heart with his ways as cantankerous as ever, but his affection and devotion to Willow unshakeable.

The Starfell world is richly developed and full of detail and colour with each location vividly drawn, pulling you into this world of magic and wonder. Sarah Warburton’s illustrations are the perfect complement to the text and under the dust jacket, the book cover is a joy.

An excellent series which captures both the heart and the imagination, the ‘Starfell’ books are simply brilliant!

Starfell: Willow Moss and the Magic Thief

Dominique Valente, illustrated by Sarah Warburton

Harper Collins ISBN: 978-0008308513

S.T.E.A.L.T.H. Access Denied

Arriving at school one day, Arun and his friend, Sam, are accosted by Donna, a girl in their year, who claims there are police at Arun’s house. Leaving school to discover what is happening, the unlikely team are thrown headlong into an action-packed thriller of a day like no other!

With each chapter heading indicating the ticking of time, this is a fast paced, non-stop blast of a book, bursting with action. Events unfold quickly, plunging the children into the thick of the proceedings, resulting in a lot of quick thinking and direct action from Arun, Sam and Donna.

Although Sam and Arun are already friends, Donna is all but unknown to them. The boys soon learn that they have misjudged her, quickly valuing the skills she brings to the team. All three children are very intelligent, resourceful and determined, although Sam is sometimes less keen to wade into action than the others. Each brings something different and together, they are a force to be reckoned with!

My son loved the ‘Kuromori’ books by Jason Rohan when he was younger and he would have loved this too. Instantly exciting, the story thrusts the reader into the thick of the action, making it perfect for those reluctant readers who can be put off by books with a slower build-up. A wealth of gadgets, technology and dodgy dealing mean there is plenty happening, but questions around morality, misconceptions and family also offer though-provoking moments.

Espionage, thrills and explosive action- what’s not to love?!

S.T.E.A.L.T.H. Access Denied Jason Rohan

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1839943386

The Wondrous Prune

Prune, a talented artist, and her family have just moved to their grandparents’ old house. Their mother hopes this will offer them a new start, particularly for Prune’s older brother, Jesse, whose friendships have been leading him into bad ways. However, starting a new school means that Prue has to deal with the Vile-lets, a group of bullying girls who make her life- and those of others- misery. All Prune’s emotions at the loss of her grandparents, her worries about her brother and the spiteful behaviour of these girls start to burst around her in clouds of amazing colours and Prune discovers that by focusing on these when drawing, her pictures will come to life! Suddenly, she is faced with incredible possibilities, but she soon learns the importance of controlling and developing her ‘wondrous’ superpower to do good as she harnesses her powers to help others.

This is such a wondrous book in so many ways! Perfect for sharing as a class story, it offers so much to discuss and reflect on as well as being a heartwarming, satisfying read. Prune is a delightful character whose love for her family and good nature make her instantly engaging and likeable. Children will empathise with her as they see how the Vile-lets behaviour towards her makes her feel and will, I’m sure (sadly!), be able to relate to her experiences. Role play could easily be used at certain points of the story to explore these feelings and how those caught up with Violet might make more positive choices. Jesse’s dilemma also offers an excellent opportunity for discussing situations children might find themselves in, considering the consequences of actions, but also how easy it is to feel trapped in a difficult situation.

Prune’s ‘superpower’ is pure genius and sure to generate many excited ideas about how she should use it, but also reflection on the wisdom Prune shows as she comes to realise that with her power comes the responsibility to use it wisely. The legend of the ‘Delmere Magic’ hints that other children may also be blessed with abilities - perhaps for future stories- opening a world of possibilities for imaginative powers and how they might be harnessed!

‘The Wondrous Prune’ is a heart-warming story, bursting with family love, positivity and joy. I cannot recommend this one highly enough and hope there are more stories about Prune -or other wondrous children- to come soon!

The Wondrous Prune Ellie Clements

Bloomsbury ISBN: 978-1526638328

Out on the 12th May 2022

The Lost Whale

When his mother decides she needs to seek help, Rio is sent to California to stay with his grandmother who he barely knows. Feeling lost and anxious, he finds focus when he uncovers an old sketchbook of his mother’s, full of drawings of whales, particularly one known as White Beak. When he makes friends with Marina and joins her and her father on their whale watching tours, Rio feels a deep connection with these creatures and a chance encounter with the magnificent White Beak changes everything for him. However, when White Beak goes missing, Rio is convinced this gentle giant is in danger and sets off on a quest to find his whale.

I loved ‘The Last Bear’ and have yet to meet a reader (adult or child!) who hasn’t been completely captivated by that story - and yet in ‘The Lost Whale’, I think Hannah Gold has excelled herself!

Through a compelling story, Hannah Gold raises awareness of the impact of human action on our oceans and the devastating effects this can have on nature. Seen through the eyes of a child, the story is completely relatable and the reader is captivated by the vivid descriptions of these majestic creatures and their habitat. Initially spurred on by wanting to find out more about his mother’s interest, Rio soon discovers much about whales, their migratory habits, the dangers they face and those who are trying to help them. The book would make an excellent class story, but also offers much in terms of curriculum links with science, geography and PSHE. Careful planning would enable children to explore Hannah’s excellent writing whilst maintaining the excitement of the story and inspiring opportunities for drama and role play activities, research and developing writing of their own.

Rio has also been supporting his mother who struggles with her mental health and this thread of the story is handled with deep compassion and sensitivity. Many children find themselves in similar situations and Rio’s confusion and desperation to somehow make his mother better will resonate whilst encouraging first sympathy, and then empathy, from others as they come to understand his situation and feelings. The developing relationship with his grandmother is also beautifully handled as they come to understand one another better.

The story is adorned with Levi Pinfold’s atmospheric and captivating illustrations. The cover is stunning, but remove the dust jacket and there is another treat in store as the orange book is covered with golden images of Rio, White Beak and shoals of fish. As beautiful as it is heartwarming, ‘The Lost Whale’ is one not to miss!

The Lost Whale

Hannah Gold, illustrated by Levi Pinfold

Harper Collins ISBN: 978-0008412944

Ghost Bird

First Nations Australians, Laney and Stacey, may be mirror twins, but their personalities are very different. Whilst Stacey works hard in school, determined to leave her home town, Laney skives off school and sneaks out to meet her boyfriend, Troy. However, when Laney disappears one night, Stacey refuses to believe she has just run off. She starts having dark, vivid dreams about her sister, leaving her in no doubt that her twin is in danger and needs her help.

This is an outstanding novel which is all consuming and compelling. Drawing on her rich cultural heritage, Lisa Fuller has created something very special and original.

Relationships are brilliantly captured from the twin’s bond to the close-knit ‘mob’ (the wider family), who rally round to find Laney in the face of apathy and racism from the authorities and parts of the wider community. Respect for elders is engrained in the girls, but in the face of her loss, Stacey is prepared to break these rules- including a long-standing family feud with the Millers- to rescue her sister from the horrors she is facing.

The settings are vividly captured. The reader can feel the relentless heat and see how the land has been scarred by the actions of white settlers in places whilst enjoying the beauty of the landscape in others. Some moments are truly disturbing, with the author skilfully building tension.

I am in no way qualified to comment on the cultural background of this story and have no wish to offend the author, or anyone else, by a clumsy comment as from the author’s note, it is obvious that she has drawn on her beliefs to create her story. All I can say is that I found it a completely absorbing, beautifully written read and I would love to read more by Lisa Fuller in the future.

Ghost Bird Lisa Fuller

Old Barn Books ISBN: 978-1910646809

The Great Fox Illusion

The Great Fox, world famous illusionist and man of mystery, has died and the ‘Great Fox Hunt’ has been launched to find his worthy successor. The competition is open only to children under 14- the age he was when he first got into magic and a television show is being made of the event. Flick Lions is determined to win the competition, but she has her eyes on a far greater prize than the Great Fox’s old tricks- she wants to recover the trick she believes the Great Fox stole from her father, who has since gone missing.

What a brilliant read! Original and absorbing, full of magic, tricks and illusions, the book is bursting with puzzles for the reader to ponder- and for Flick, and her partner, Charlie, to solve. Pitched against Harry and Ruby Townsend- who have their own agenda for winning- Flick and Charlie take on the challenges set by the Great Fox and those of appearing on a game show.

Flick is an engaging, strong character who is determined to win the competition for the good of her family. She has a prosthetic leg and the author does not shy away from showing the reader the pain it can cause her, developing empathy for her situation. Charlie has his own reasons for wanting to win the competition and as their friendship develops and they come to trust one another, sharing their secrets and making a formidable team.

This would make an excellent class read with plenty of opportunities to introduce the children to magic tricks and illusions along the way. ‘The Fox Files’ at the end of the story explains how to perform a card trick which they are sure to love and might awaken a new interest or hobby in one or two of them!

The whole story is brilliantly contrived, managing layers of secrets and illusions- and an ending which invites a sequel! I very much hope that there is one to come…soon!

The Great Fox Illusion Justyn Edwards

Walker Books ISBN: 978-1529501940

Reeve and McIntyre

A real highlight of Saturday’s programme at this year’s FCBG Conference will be seeing Philip Reeve and Sarah McIntyre in action. This dynamic duo are not only responsible for excellent books (both individually and as a dream team!), but put on an amazing, highly entertaining, audience engaging performance. So much so that I find (to my horror!) that although I have seen them in action many times, I have very few photos of their events- I was enjoying watching too much to take any!

Together, Philip and Sarah are much loved for treasures like ‘Oliver and the Seawigs’, ‘Jinks and O’Hare Funfair Repair’ and the ‘Kevin’ books. These stories are endlessly popular in the library, with children often asking whether there are any more, and can be used very successfully as guided reading texts. Bursting with gentle humour and engaging characters, each book is also lavishly illustrated, offering much to notice and giggle over.

However, both Sarah and Philip have treated us to books which they have written independently. Philip’s amazing ‘Mortal Engines’ series remain amongst my favourite reads and his latest book, ‘Utterly Dark and the Face of the Deep’, was truly amazing. I was delighted to hear at the David Fickling Showcase that a new Utterly book is on the way soon- can’t wait for that one!

Sarah has given us some wonderfully illustrated picture books including the ‘Grumpycorn’ books and, my favourite, ‘The New Neighbours’. Excellent for using with children to discuss prejudice and suspicion of anyone different, I regularly use this to inspire Year 6 children to write their own stories. The children really get involved in the communities they create, using speech to ‘convey character and advance action’ before sharing these with younger children. Great fun!

I can’t wait to see what this brilliant pair will get up to at the weekend!

Nisha’s War

When Nisha and her mother have to flee the war in Malaya, they receive a cold reception from Nisha’s paternal grandmother in the north of England. When her mother falls ill shortly after their arrival, Nisha is left to face her formidable grandmother and racist locals alone. Scared, lonely and haunted by memories of the past, Nisha finds herself drawn to the Weeping Tree where she meets Twig, who tells Nisha she has to find three treasures and bring them to the tree before the full moon turns from gold to silver and all will be well.

Beautifully written, the haunting opening of this novel is instantly captivating. Nisha and her mother are so vulnerable that the reader is filled with compassion and the desire to know more about them. Dan Smith then skilfully builds their story, mingling the present with the past in the form of ‘Nisha’s Truths’- diary sections where she recounts the events which have led her and her mother to this point.

Thrust into a new and alien world, Nisha shows great determination and resilience in the face of hostility. The fact that she is ‘different’, coming from Indian/ English parentage, being an ‘outsider’ and having partially lost her hearing due to a bomb blast all add to the wave of prejudice she encounters from many villagers. The contrast between scenes of the stark landscape of Barrow Island and the vibrancy and colour of Malaya, the threat of the Weeping tree and the safety of the banyan tree even with its ghosts, the sense of life before and life after skilfully emphasis her vulnerability and deepen the reader’s empathy for her situation. She would be a wonderful character to explore with a class.

The novel is richly written and there are many descriptive passages worth lingering over and sharing. Although the story would make an excellent class story, some of the passages about the war are quite graphic and so the audience would need careful consideration- Year 6 and above- before reading. A ‘Did You Know?’ section and glossary of terms further enrich the reader’s experience.

The atmospheric cover illustration by Matthew Land is sure to tempt readers in and the end papers continue the interest, showing a range of pictures, posters, notes and objects which offer tantalising clues about the story ahead. The passage of time to the full moon- so significant for Nisha in the story- is marked by chapter headings and full page illustrations showing its changing face and emphasising the sense of urgency felt by Nisha as time passes.

A stunning story!

Nisha’s War Dan Smith

Chicken House ISBN: 978-1912626755

Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.

Hedgewitch

The FCBG Conference is rapidly approaching, offering an author-packed weekend of book-ish fun. I was delighted to notice that the first event is to be tea with Welbeck Flame, celebrating ‘Hedgewitch’ with author, Skye McKenna. Lucky enough to be sent a copy of this most enjoyable book to review for Reading Zone, I am looking forward to this event very much! ‘Hedgewitch’ would make a fantastic class read, offering much to discuss and enjoy along the way. I will write more about this after conference, but for now, here is my review for Reading Zone!

Cassie Morgan has been waiting for her mother to return for her for seven long years. Now her mother has been declared legally dead and she is faced with going to the orphanage, Cassie decides to run away from Fowell House, the awful boarding school she has been attending, whatever the danger. She finds herself chased by a pack of goblins, but escapes their clutches with the help of a talking cat called Montague on a flying broom to the village of Hedgely. Here, she learns that she comes from a family of witches who protect Britain from the Faerie and that she is the niece of the Hedgewitch herself.

What a fabulous read! Skye McKenna balances the real and magic worlds with skill, creating a rich and well developed story. Cassie is subjected to bullying at her school, victim of the hockey team and their leader, Lizzie Bleacher, who make her life miserable. These pages are uncomfortable reading as Cassie tries to become ‘invisible’, isolated from any hope of friendship or support from a seemingly complicit staff, yet suffers verbally and physically at the hands of her tormentors.

Determined to find out what happened to her mother, Cassie shows herself to be determined and resourceful, making firm friendships as she navigates her new life. There is plenty of action and adventure to keep the reader on the edge of their seat. Montague is a wonderful character, delivering advice in the most cat-like manner and ultimately proving the most faithful familiar!

A great read for those who love magic and mystery!

Hedgewitch Skye McKenna

Welbeck Flame ISBN: 978-1801300087

A Storm of Sisters

When cousin Clarissa needs looking after, the Widdershins sisters and their Granny set off for the Wilderness to look after her. The girls are excited to find that there is not room for them all to stay ta cousin Clarissa’s house and they will be staying at Echo Hall-without Granny. With the mysterious legend of a highwayman, a winter market to explore and the possibility of masked ball to attend, there is much to enjoy, but the town has an eerie past and the girls find themselves caught up in the ghostly happenings at the Hall.

I have loved each of the books about the Widdershins sisters, but I think this is the best yet! Betty, keen to travel and adventurous as ever, is enthralled by the legend of the highwayman surrounding Echo Hall and delighted to find an unsolved mystery in the very place they are staying. Fliss is more concerned with the prospect of a masked ball, having her fortune told and perhaps falling in love whereas Charlie remains as Charlie-like as ever! Together, they make a formidable team, but all their determination and love for family might not be enough to keep them safe in the face of ghosts and devious goings on.

Wintery Wilderness is the perfect backdrop to this story. Atmospheric descriptions help build tension as eerie events develop and the girls find themselves entwined in the mystery of the highwayman. As ever, evocative place names are carefully chosen to enhance the atmosphere.    

Gripping from the outset, ‘A Storm of Sisters’ is an excellent, absorbing read, full of mystery and magic. Just brilliant!

A Storm of Sisters Michelle Harrison

Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1471197659

Originally reviewed for Reading Zone.

The Story Shop: Blast Off!

Looking for adventure? Want to be a hero for the day?

Then step inside the Story Shop… Wilbur and Fred can’t wait to meet you!

When a very boastful mouse enters the Story Shop, owner Wilbur and his assistant, Fred Ferret, are sure they can find the perfect adventure for him. They settle on something out of this world- and Mouse becomes Space Mouse. Accompanied by Fred, the daredevil Mouse travels first to the moon, then to Planet Winner before reaching Planet Cog. Narrowly escaping disaster, this rambunctious rodent and poor Fred eventually make it back to the Story Shop just in time for tea!

Who wouldn’t want to visit a Story Shop and mix up an adventure in the Story Pot?! Once again, the incredible Tracey Corderoy has come up with an idea which will capture children’s imaginations and catapult them into storytelling.

Overconfident and somewhat big-headed, Mouse’s attitude is sure to lead to trouble and the story offers plenty of giggles as his antics lead him and Fred into ever-hotter water. Children could easily add to Mouse’s adventures, letting their imaginations fly as they think of new settings and creatures for him to encounter.

The story is a gift for teachers looking to spark ideas and inspire children to write their own adventures. Where would they go if they visited Wilbur and Fred? What ingredients would they drop into the Story Pot- and what emergency items would they add to Fred’s backpack? What characters might they meet and how would they get back home? There are endless adventures they could write, act out and share, perhaps creating a book of ‘Story Shop Adventures’ for the class!

The book is bursting with Tony Neal’s lively, engaging illustrations which add to both the interest and the appeal of the book. Hopefully, this will be the first in a series, offering children many adventures to enjoy. Perfect for younger readers!

The Story Shop: Blast Off! Tracey Corderoy, illustrated by Tony Neal

Little Tiger ISBN; 978-1788953252