A Game of Life or Death

Welcome to Zu Tech’s newest game, SHACKLE…

When sixteen-year-old Asha Kennedy discovers her older sister Maya's dead body in their home, her world falls apart. Desperate for answers, and to stay out of the hands of the social services she grew up in, Asha turns to her hacker friends for help.

Her search leads her to Zu Tech, the hit games studio where Maya was a lead coder. As Asha begins to unravel the riddle of her death, she realises that the only way to uncover the truth is from the inside.

Asha ghosts her old life and infiltrates a Zu Tech eSport tournament as they launch 'SHACKLE', the revolutionary Virtual Reality video game Maya was working on - and which hides a monstrous secret...

Apart from the murder mystery element, this is absolutely NOT the sort of book I would normally read- but I am so glad that I did! Asha is a complex character in a complex situation, determined to unravel the truth about what happened to her sister and the reader very quickly becomes caught up in her quest, willing her to not only solve the puzzle, but survive the experience and come out on top.

The book immerses the reader in the world of games and gamers, with reference and details which are sure to appeal to those familiar with the technology and inspirations behind much of the story. I have no knowledge of these things yet I was still engrossed by the story which surely speaks volumes about the strength of the plot rather than the context. The action moves quickly and the story is suitably full of twists, red herrings and puzzles, including (I hope!) the possibility of more to come in future books. Loved it!

A Game of Life or Death Triona Campbell

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702317880

Lunar New Year

Lunar New Year marks the beginning of the new year based on the lunisolar calendar and is the most important celebration for many Southeast and East Asian countries. This fantastic book explores the legends and traditions behind this festival with recipes and crafts to enjoy alongside the facts. For teachers, this is an invaluable resource as it offers a clear explanation of the customs and traditions linked to the Lunar New Year in different countries, ensuring the information they share with classes is both accurate and respectful. In 2023, Chinese New Year, Tết Nguyên đán (Vietnam) and Seollal (Korea) all fall on the 22nd January and although similar in some ways, each festival is different.

The book explains what is meant by the lunisolar calendar and the Chinese Zodiac before exploring the story of the ‘Great Race’ and how this differs from place to place. Other legends are also explored. For example, the legend of the Peach Tree explains why those who celebrate Tết often have an ornamental tree or branch on display in their homes. A glossary at the end of the book explains any possibly unfamiliar terms.

The arts and crafts section is packed with fun activities which are achievable and use readily available materials. The author has even considered this in the recipes section, advising that some ingredients can be substituted for those more commonly available whilst others can only be found in Asian food stores. The final section of the book offers decorated pages for the reader to use as a record of how they celebrated the Lunar New Year.

An excellent book for all to enjoy!

All About Lunar New Year

Kevin Tsang, illustrated by Linh Nguyen

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702315237

‘I Love Chinese New Year’ introduces the reader to Mai-Anne and her family as they prepare for Chinese New Year. She can’t wait to see her family and share the Reunion Dinner with them. Her Nai Nai tells her the story of the Great Race and when her Uncle Eric arrives, they can perform the family Dragon Dance and eat sweet tangerine pieces for good luck.

This is a delightfully warm, family-focused story. It offers a joyful introduction to the traditions of Chinese New Year for those who do not celebrate it whilst perfectly capturing the excitement and contentment of the special occasion for those who do. The illustrations are lively and colourful with plenty to notice and discuss. The story also reflects how special grandparent/ grandchild relationships can be. The book ends with facts about Chinese New Year and the Dragon Dance, allowing the reader to discover more about this fascinating festival if needed.

This is a book about a loving family as much as about an exciting festival making it an extra-special read!

I Love Chinese New Year

Eva Wong Nava, illustrated by Xin Li

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702315732

20 Elves at Bedtime

The night before Christmas Eve,

Santa could not sleep.

Although his reindeer friends suggest he counts sheep to help him doze off, Santa decides to count gold-buttoned elves instead! And so he does…jingling ones, ribboned ones, busy ones… twenty fun-filled elves until they all fall asleep!

Full of delightful illustrations, ‘Twenty Elves at Bedtime’ is the perfect festive treat! Told in rhyme, the story offers plenty of counting practice as, not only does the story encourage counting from one to twenty, but the cover and end papers also show arrays of twenty elves, crying out to be counted! The pictures are full of humour and as each elf is shown with their name and particular talent at the beginning of the book, there is plenty of opportunity for finding each one as the story progresses and for encouraging children to develop their own stories about their favourites. There is plenty of vocabulary to explore and enjoy along the way and one elf is admiring the Northern Lights which is sure to inspire discussions! Teachers might offer children the opportunity to write their own elvish tales, using one of the elves from the book to develop their own ideas- perhaps creating elf shaped books!

The story also lends itself to being part of a bedtime routine- particularly in the build up to Christmas. As the elves begin to tire, the text begins to slow and the pictures show everyone settling down to sleep, ready for the activity of Christmas Eve.

A magical Christmas treat!

20 Elves at Bedtime Mark Sperring, illustrated by Tim Budgen

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702313592

Bedtime Stories…

In this vibrant collection, Rachel Pierce explores some events from Ireland’s remarkable history. Each story is told in its own chapter, beautifully illustrated by a range of talented Irish illustrators. Just the right length for a bedtime story, ‘Incredible Irish Tales from the Past’ is perfect for dipping in and out of anytime, for sharing or for reading alone.

The stories feature a great range of characters and events, each richly told. The reader can learn how Lorcán Ó Tuathail started out in life, how Colonel Thomas Blood tried to steal the Crown Jewels and how two pioneering young women became barristers. Each section ends with an idea for how to ‘Explore the Story’. This suggests a place to visit, a website to explore, a film to watch- ways of extending understanding of the people and places in the story.

Each illustrator brings their unique style to each story, making the book as attractive as it is informative. The collection would be an interesting choice for Guided Reading sessions, offering challenge and interest with plenty to investigate and explore whilst enjoying each story.

Bedtime Stories: Incredible Irish Tales from the Past

Rachel Pierce, illustrated by Donough O’Malley, Erin Brown, Eva Bryne, Jennifer Davison, Linda Fahrlin, Lydia Hughes, Roisin Hahessy and Una Woods

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702318542

This stunning collection of stories has been written and illustrated by those with heritage from across the Asian continent. As with the previous collection, each story is the perfect length for sharing at bedtime, but also to be enjoyed independently.

Each author brings their own style to the work just as each illustrator’s individuality shines through their art work. Here, the reader can learn about a Korean King- Sejong- who invented an alphabet, a monk who collected manuscripts and one of the most influential women in the Mongol Empire. It is a fascinating and engrossing collection of tales, full of inspiration.

A glossary at the end of each section supports the reader with unfamiliar vocabulary and terms. Like the previous book, this is a collection which would work so well for Guided Reading, full of some incredible stories, brilliantly told. Perfect for school or home!

Bedtime Stories: Amazing Asian Tales from the Past

Sufiya Ahmed, Maisie Chan, Shae Davies, Saima Mir, Bali Rai, Annabelle Sami, Rebeka Shaid, Cynthia So and Rekha Waheed.

illustrated by Ginnie Hsu, Aaliya Jaheel, Jocelyn Kao, Jennifer Khatun, Hannah Li, Debby Rahmalia, Abeeha Tariq, Kubra Teber, Tika and Tata and Amanda Yoshida.

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702316012

Meet Martin Brown

It is a joy to welcome Martin Brown to the Bookshelf today! The ‘Horrible Histories’ books have been engaging, entertaining and informing children (and adults!) for many years now and the series owes much of its success to Martin’s illustrative genius. I first met Martin at a FCBG Conference and was delighted when his ‘Lesser Spotted Animals’ won the NSTBA 2017 Information Category.

Photo: Emily Beale Photography

1.       You are probably best known for illustrating the incredibly popular ‘Horrible Histories’ books, but have you illustrated many books for other writers as well as having written and illustrated books of your own?

I’ve only illustrated a few books with other authors. Before the Horrible Histories I was doing similar cartoony things with Peter Corey for the Coping With… series. And I was lucky enough to illustrate the re-issue of Philip Pullman’s The Adventures of the New Cut Gang. More recently I’ve illustrated a sort of fairy story all about chess for Mark Price and worked with John McLay on the Dragon’s Dentist series of early reader books.

2.       The ‘Lesser Spotted Animals’ books are hugely popular with children I have taught. How did you decide which animals to include? Are there any you haven’t written about which you would like to?

Growing up in Australia I knew about lots of animals that were unfamiliar here, so that was a start. But I’ve always had a love of wild creatures, and over the years I’ve heard about all sorts of wonderful beasties. That’s one of the reasons I wrote the book. I couldn’t understand how some of these beautiful and amazing animals could be so unknown. Then it was books and the internet to learn about even more. The trouble is, I’d like to write about them all – and just for mammals, that would be 237 more books!

3.       Tell me a little about the next adventure for Nell and Cave Bear.

Hmm, I’m not sure if I’m allowed to. OK then, just a bit… It starts just after the last book ends. Nell and Cave Bear are living with the Sea Clan – but it’s time to head back to the Cave and then on to the hunting grounds on the Great Plain. And Nell’s not sure if she wants to go. Meanwhile the bear-hunting Woodland Clan are plotting revenge. Once more Nell and her bear best friend are thrown into danger. However, this time, there’s help.

4.       Which artists/ illustrators inspire you and your work?

When I was starting out my heroes were cartoonists like Jeff MacNelly, Pat Oliphant and Johnny Hart. These days I am constantly inspired by just about every illustrator I have ever met or who’s work I have ever seen. We are so lucky to have approximately a gazillion wonderful artists working in the Children’s Book world at present. Chris Riddell, Sophy Henn, Shaun Tan, Helen Stephens, Sarah McIntyre, Oliver Jeffers, Adam Stower, Axel Scheffler, Helen Oxenbury, Ian Beck, Alex Latimer, Lauren Child, Jim Field… the list is endless.

5.       Which of your pictures/illustrations are you the most proud of?

As a lot of my work is really cartooning rather than illustration, to me, some of my best drawings are gags I’ve done for the Horrible Histories books – like for Angry Aztecs. It was considered good luck to attach a severed finger from a dead person to your shield before a battle. So how do you attach a severed finger to your shield? With a finger nail of course!

6.       It’s the 30th anniversary of Horrible Histories next year. Do you have plans to celebrate this?

Yes, wonderful plans are afoot. But no-one’s told me what they are yet. However, there will be a special new Horrible Histories book to go with the anniversary. And after that it’ll be back to writing the next adventure for Nell and the Cave Bear.

7.       And lastly - and most importantly according to my niece - what is your favourite cake?

Um… I haven’t got a particularly sweet tooth – coffee and walnut perhaps? But honestly, I think I’d rather a Portuguese custard tart.

Many thanks to Martin for sharing his answers with me. I am very excited about the new Nell- I believe the cover is being released today- and am looking forward to the special Horrible Histories 30th anniversary book.

You can read my review of Nell and the Cave Bear here and Lesser Spotted Animals here. You can also read about Martin’s exhibition at Weston Museum here.

My guided reading notes for Nell and the Cave Bear are here and I will be adding my notes for Lesser Spotted Animals soon.

The Mountain Rescue Dog

Everything changes for Clova after her mother, part of the Glenstrome search and rescue team in the Scottish mountains, dies during a rescue mission. Her grieving father withdraws into himself, becoming overly protective of his daughter and it is thanks to the efforts of her grandfather that the family hotel is still running. Feeling lonely and lost, Clova is struggling until she meets Tatty, a nervous collie stray, who helps her find purpose again as she begins to train him as a rescue dog. When two young boys are lost, Tatty and Clova track them down; her father is furious and vows to send Tatty away, leaving Clova heartbroken. However, when her father is lost on the mountain and heavy snow causes an avalanche, Clova and her faithful dog prove that they belong together and save the day.

Anyone who has had a dog will instantly recognise the remarkable bond that can form with a much loved companion. Juliette Forrest captures this perfectly, making ‘The Mountain Rescue Dog’ a great read for anyone with a canine pal. However, there is so much more to this fabulous story of grief, courage and adventure.

The incredible work of mountain rescue teams and their Search and Rescue dogs is really celebrated through the book, giving the reader a glimpse of the work which the dogs, their handlers and the teams do and the lengths which they go to, at great personal risk, to save those in need. In her author note at the end of the book, Juliette says, ‘Scottish Mountain Rescue have 850 team volunteers, who will respond at a moment’s notice 24 hours-a-day, 365 days-a-year.’ Through highlighting their amazing dedication and the essential work they do, the story also acts as a reminder of the dangers and fickle nature of mountains, encouraging readers (should they wish to!) to explore them safely. The patience and commitment needed to train a rescue dog and the love and kindness used to do this is beautifully explored as Clova trains Tatty with guidance from her grandfather, who offers many useful tips to consider when training any dog!

Deeply poignant in places, the story also explores loss and the overwhelming nature of grief. Clova is devastated by her mother’s death and keenly feels the secondary loss of her father who has lost himself in his sorrow. His frantic desire to protect his daughter- to try to keep her safe- results in a lack of communication and a loss of understanding as each struggles to come to terms with what has happened. The story also touches on her grandfather’s grief as he sees his daughter in Clova, comforting her as he acknowledges her sadness, sharing his feelings with her in a way her father is not ready to.

‘…everywhere you go a fresh memory pops up you had forgotten about. Even though you can see them as clear as day as if they’re right in front of you - you know they are not coming back.’

With each of her books, Juliette Forrest offers something different, but strong characters and vivid settings are sure to feature whatever the focus. In ‘The Mountain Rescue Dog’, she has created a heart-warming tail (sorry- couldn’t help myself!) of loss, love and understanding which is sure to become a firm favourite for teachers to read to their class as well as for enjoying independently.

The Mountain Rescue Dog Juliette Forrest

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702313646

Published 1st September 2022

When Ice Cream Had a Meltdown

Inside the ice cream van, all the ice creams and lollies are so excited as they can’t wait to be picked. But no-one wants the plain Ice Cream and she has to watch as all her friends are chosen instead of her. She says she doesn’t mind and tries to hide her feelings until eventually she has a meltdown! Her frozen friends all rally round to support her and at last, her dream comes true!

‘When Ice Cream Had a Meltdown’ is another brilliantly funny story from Michelle Robinson and Tom Knight, celebrating the importance of sharing and understanding our feelings. Michelle is an expert storyteller and her lively text bounces along, making it perfect for reading aloud with a class or at home and offering an excellent starting point for helping children explore their emotions whether feeling left out or whatever!

The illustrations are fantastic! Each ice cream and lolly is bursting with personality and children will enjoy recognising many of the tasty frozen treats brought to life by Tom’s artwork. The story could also offer plenty of inspiration for making ice cream and lollies as well- a plain one or those with a whole host of flavours and toppings! You could even do a little shopping maths with the priced pictures of ice creams at the beginning and end of the book, perhaps creating an ice cream ‘van’ for role play fun!

‘When Ice Cream Had a Meltdown’ joins the other fabulous titles from this talented team- ‘When Cucumber Lost His Cool’, ‘When Jelly Had a Wobble’ and ‘The Day the Banana Went Bad’- and is sure to become a firm favourite!

When Ice Cream Had a Meltdown

Michelle Robinson, illustrated by Tom Knight

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702313332

I Got This

Erin is outgoing, chatty, has a beautiful singing voice and a MASSIVE Afro. She also has achondroplasia, a form of dwarfism. Both Erin and her little brother, Joe, who also has achondroplasia, are about to face the challenges of a new school- Erin to secondary whilst Joe is starting primary. Neither has the best start so to try and make Joe feel better, Erin rashly promises him that she will win a place as a member of Fusion Junior, a new group being created by Erin’s favourite band, Fusion. Encouraged and supported by her best friend, Aimee, Erin starts to create her videoed audition for the band. However, when Isla, known to Aimee and Erin from primary school and also set on auditioning for Fusion Junior, gets wind of these plans, she plays on Erin’s insecurities, making her worry that Aimee’s help will not be enough. Torn between the need to keep her promise to her brother and loyalty to her best friend, Erin faces some tough choices.

‘I Got This!’ is a brilliant read which seamlessly combines details of life with achondroplasia, based on the real-life experiences of Cara Mailey, with a compelling and satisfying story. Details of the daily challenges Erin faces are evident from the opening chapter when she gets locked in the toilets at the concert she is attending because, although she managed to lock the door using her shoe, she has no way of opening it again. By openly addressing things like the different ways people react when they see her and her family- the smilers, the not-so-secret glancers, the starers and the secret photographers- the reader gains a deeper understanding of how Erin feels, encouraging greater empathy. Having to take a taxi to school and having a one to one support are also explored. Although well-meaning, Erin’s new class helper, Barbara, doesn’t actually communicate with Erin, failing to consider her wishes or establish any ground rules for their relationship, highlighting potential problems.

However, family and friendship are very much at the heart of this story. Aimee is a fabulous character, genuinely believing in her friend and Erin really comes to appreciate her over the course of the novel, recognising her true worth. Erin is surrounded by the love and support of her family, a tight unit, who are keen to be positive and focus on the things which Erin and Joe can do, encouraging them to be themselves and to be the best they can be- a universal message we can all benefit from! There are touching family scenes, but also plenty of humour, making the book a joy to read.

I Got This Cara Mailey and Chrissie Sains

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702314988

Please Write Soon

When asked to present a project in school, Solly -Solomon- tells his classmates about his Polish cousin, Bernie. He shares a series of letters which he wrote to Bernie and those he received in return over the course of the war. Through these letters, Solly tells Bernie about his evacuation to the countryside and his experiences there whilst Bernie writes of being sent by his parents from his home in west Poland to the east of the country where they hope he will be safer. As events build, the cousins share their experiences, worries and hopes until Sonny is able to tell his class what happened to Bernie and his family.

Inspired by the true experiences of the cousin of Michael Rosen’s father who was in the Anders Army, ‘Please Write Soon’ is a poignant story which introduces its readers to many events of the Second World War. A photo of Michael Rechnic (the inspiration for Bernie’s story) is included at the beginning of the book, encouraging the reader to remember those who experienced great hardship, fought and sacrificed so much for us today and perhaps inspire those who read this story to find out more about these events - and perhaps explore how they affected members of their own family.

Reading the story helps the reader to understand something of the impact of the war on the lives of real people. For Londoners like Solly, this included evacuation, the fear of air raids, rationing and the destruction of bombing. Solly also writes of the Bethnal Green Tube Station tragedy which took the lives of so many who were trying to get to safety. Solly’s letters are also brimming with little details of his daily life- playing marbles, watching badgers as well as his fears and troubles. Bernie’s letters tell of being sent to a work camp in Russia before becoming a soldier and fighting in Persia and Italy. When his letters are less frequent, Solly worries about what might have happened to his cousin, but continues to send his letters.

There is so much to reflect on and absorb from this poignant story and it would make an excellent text to use in school. The letter format makes the boys’ experiences very vivid, encouraging empathy and understanding in the reader. Events from the war are clearly explained and are sure to encourage children to investigate further. Michael Foreman’s illustrations complement the text perfectly. Using only shades of grey with touches of red, he captures scenes from the boys’ letters beautifully.

The afterword also makes an important read, adding much to the story and exploring Remembrance and its significance today, a very fitting conclusion to the book.

An excellent addition to any library or book collection.

Please Write Soon: An Unforgettable Story of Two Cousins in World War II

Michael Rosen, illustrated by Michael Foreman

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702303180

Dave and Greta Make the World Better

Dave and Greta are best friends and love to play together. However, when watching TV one night, Dave learns about climate change and calls his friend to discuss his worries. The friends agree that they should try to do something to make a difference, but when Dave shares his ideas with all the animals, they laugh at him. Luckily, Greta arrives and explains that little things can make a big difference, resulting in everyone agreeing to do their bit.

With practical tips for how to help the environment, this is the perfect story for teaching children they are never to small to make a big difference! The book offers plenty of opportunities for discussion from the characters’ names- Dave (I’m guessing a nod to David Attenborough) and Greta (Greta Thunberg)- to threats to wildlife to actions that can be taken for change. Greta’s advice is very reassuring and lends itself to a starting point for actually doing something at home- or school.

The illustrations are full of fun! Eagle-eyed Matt Carr fans will spot Pat the bat from ‘Superbat’ and Doris the Doctopus from ‘Now Wash Your Hands’ on the badges on Greta’s bag as well as a picture of Pat on reused paper. I love the fact that whilst Dave is shown as a fox of action, Greta takes her time, heading for the library to research on ‘Owlgle’, valuing the different ways people approach things!

Perfect for teaching young ones about environmental issues in an accessible and reassuring way.

Dave and Greta Make the World Better! Matt Carr

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702316067

You can read my review of ‘Spyder’ here, ‘Rocket Mole’ here and ‘Rhinocorn Rules!’ here.

Our Table

International Dot Day is an annual event in any school I teach in and I have loved Peter H Reynolds’ books since I first encountered ‘The Dot’ way back when! Since then, I have eagerly looked out for his new titles, keen to get them into class and share them with children. Inspiring, often poignant and always brilliantly illustrated, his books are a key feature in my book corner and school library.

‘Our Table’ is a heart-warming story about the importance of family. Once, the table was at the heart of Violet’s home- a place where the family gathered and memories were made. But recently, everyone has been busy and Violet often finds herself alone at the table. One day, she notices the table is smaller- and smaller- until by the end of the week, it has disappeared altogether. Violet knows she must take action to put things right again.

As Violet appeals to her family for help, she draws them all back together as they once more share experiences and spend time together, connecting as a family should. The illustrations are so evocative of the emotions she experiences. As he family drifts apart and she feels lonely, shades of purple (or violet!) are used to capture the weight of her feelings whilst her joyful memories are in full colour, vividly standing out against the white of the page. Once her family reconnects, jubilant colour returns once more, even spilling over onto the end papers. The final picture is a complete joy as the family gathers round the table once more, sharing their meal, laughing and enjoying being together. Mum is even sneaking food to the dog under the table!

The text is simple and to the point, allowing children to reflect on the pictures and consider what the characters might me thinking/ feeling at various points, encouraging them to empathise, and perhaps identify, with Violet as her family are engaging more with the screens in their lives than with each other.

One to treasure!

Our Table Peter H Reynolds

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702313738

You can read my review of ‘The Word Collector’ here and ‘Playing from the Heart’ here.

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

We Sang Across the Sea: The Empire Windrush and Me

Written as a poem, ‘We Sang Across the Sea: The Empire Windrush and Me’ tells the story of Mona Baptiste, a singer who left her Trinidadian home for England. It is a moving story, beautifully told and illustrated.

The happiness of Mona’s childhood on the island is brilliantly captured with her passion for singing celebrated on every page. Her courage and determination when leaving her family aboard the Empire Windrush to accomplish her hopes and dreams is shared in the faces of the others depicted waving farewell to their loved ones and homeland in search of pastures new. It offers the perfect opportunity for discussing the reasons for migration and encouraging empathy, as well as excitement, for those in search of a different life and celebrating the skills and cultural richness they carry with them.

Mona’s experiences as a ‘singing sensation’, travelling and performing all round the world, show she achieved her desire to share her love of singing, bringing joy to all who heard her. However, the difficulties she faced as a ‘Caribbean girl’ are alluded to, offering a great opportunity for further discussing her experiences and those of others who came on the Windrush. A little note about Mona Baptiste at the end of the book adds to the story and might inspire children to explore her life further.

The text is perfect for reading aloud and children will naturally join in with the repeated refrain. The book is sure to become a firm favourite and is a poignant reminder of the arrival of the Windrush, celebrated each year on Windrush Day, the 22nd June.

Benjamin Zephaniah’s dedication in the book is every bit as beautiful as the story itself:

For all children who love to sing

and children who love listening

Regardless of your colour or race,

please make this world a better place.

Wise words indeed!

We Sang Across the Sea: The Empire Windrush and Me

Benjamin Zephaniah, illustrated by Onyinye Iwu

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702311161

Published 7th April 2022

The Most Exciting Eid

Safa can’t wait for Eid to arrive. She is so excited about the beautiful henna designs, the new clothes, the decorations and the food that she can barely sleep the night before. When the day arrives, it is everything Safa dreamed of- and more as she learns how special it is to share and think about others, bringing them happiness.

What a lovely book! From its striking cover to the information pages at the end, this is a must have for all school book corners and libraries as well as for sharing at home. As a teacher constantly on the look out for books by authentic voices which reflect the children she teaches, I can’t wait to take this into school!

‘The Most Exciting Eid’ vividly captures the excitement children feel as a special occasion approaches. For those not familiar with Eid-al-Fitr, the story introduces many of the customs and traditions involved, offering plenty to discuss, with a glossary at the end for those who wish to find out more. Children will enjoy comparing family traditions at special times and appreciate the commonalities as well as learning about and respecting differences.

However, the story also contains a very heart-warming message about the ‘true meaning’ of Eid and Safa learns the joy of sharing with others as she accompanies her mother to wish friends and neighbours ‘Eid Murbarak’, sharing their food and joy with anyone who might need it.

The illustrations throughout are superb. Full of rich colours and energy, they capture Safa’s excitement and the delight of celebrating Eid perfectly, making the book even more enjoyable.

The Most Exciting Eid Zeba Talkhani, illustrated by Abeeha Tariq

Scholastic ISBN: 978-0702313240

Published 7th April 2022