Jed Greenleaf

It is the reign of Queen Jane III and the Guild of Iron, led by Cromwell, helps her rule the kingdom of Albion. Although the six magickal guilds compete for this role every year, it has been a long time since Fire or Iron have been in charge.

When orphan Jed finds himself taken in by the crumbling Guild of Leaf, his extraordinary abilities allow for the possibility of change. However, things are not as they should be and Jed soon finds himself caught up in a world of intrigue where he needs to save his new guild family and fight for change.

‘Jed Greenleaf’ is a completely engaging story, enhanced throughout by wonderfully atmospheric illustrations by David Wyatt. I loved everything about it, from its alternative historical setting to its appealing characters. Kieran Larwood’s stories just get better and better.

Set at a time when Lady Jane Grey succeeded in inheriting the throne from Edward VI and her descendants now rule Albion, the book is full of historical details and references to historical figures which add much to the setting of the story, giving a realism which acts as a contrast to the magickal abilities of those in the Guilds and creates a perfect backdrop to this intricate and brilliantly imagined world.

Jed is such a fabulous character. Sickly and bullied by those around him, he is full of self-doubt, worried about his abilities and his newfound role as part of a Guild which is far from flourishing. Yet, as the story progresses, his courage and determination lead him to achieve things he would never have thought possible, overturning corruption and righting wrongs along the way. Despite all the cruelty he has experienced, Jed shows unfailing kindness and loyalty to those he cares for, an instinctive sense of right and wrong guiding him in the choices he makes.

There is a rich feeling of folklore, combined with a love of the natural world running through the story and although it looks as if this is a self-contained story, it would be such as shame not to revisit Jed and his friends in another adventure. This is a must-read, perfect for sharing as a class or bedtime story!

Jed Greenleaf

Kieran Larwood, illustrated by David Wyatt

Faber ISBN: 978-0571392049

You can read my review of ‘The Treekeepers’ here.

Santa’s Journey/ Twelve Days of Kindness

This simple rhyming story follows Father Christmas as he makes his way across the skies to deliver his gifts on Christmas Eve. Each verse is accompanied by a lovely layered pop-up scene to enjoy and discuss.

The thick card pages are durable and offer protection to the more fragile scenes which pop-up from the page as the book is opened, giving depth to each picture and each of the five scenes is richly coloured.

Perfect for sharing and enjoying as a family, older children may well be tempted to have a go at creating their own pop-up scene or a card inspired by these pictures. Sure to become a festive favourite!

Santa’s Journey

Patricia Hegarty, illustrated by Wazza Pink

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1838916534

Brightly coloured illustrations show a family spreading festive cheer as they perform twelve simple acts of kindness in the days before Christmas. Each spread has a simple sentence stating what they did on that day, with the picture setting the scene. It clearly shows how little things we can do for others can mean so much - and without the need for spending lots of money. This is all about spending time with others, helping out, being together and showing appreciation for the things which others do for us. Even the cat gets a treat!

A lovely treat to curl up and share!

Twelve Days of Kindness

Sophie Beer

Little Tiger ISBN: 978-1838916800

The Christmas Tree Mouse

The Christmas Tree Mouse is on a mission- to help Santa on his busiest night of the year. And when she notices that baby Ola has been left the wrong present, the Christmas Tree Mouse swings into action, using all her special equipment to get the job done, no matter what cat-astrophe might arise!

Perfect for the festive season, ‘The Christmas Tree Mouse’ is the very thing for snuggling down and sharing in the run up to Christmas. Taking inspiration from the mouse mentioned in the poem by Clement Clarke Moore, Joseph Coelho has created a story explaining the important role of the Christmas Tree Mouse and how she is rewarded in the end!

The Christmas Tree Mouse is an endearing, charming character who takes their duties very seriously. There are many little details to chuckle over and enjoy - I love the idea that Santa squeezes through the letter box! The illustrations are gorgeous with plenty to notice, including the wonderful range of expressions on the Christmas Tree Mouse’s face as she goes about her work, faces and overcomes the danger posed by the household cat! The use of warm Christmas lights against the velvety dark of the night creates a really Christmassy atmosphere, adding to the enjoyment of this cosy tale.

Alongside the milk, mince pies and carrots, families are sure to start leaving a lump of cheese for the Christmas Tree Mouse!

The Christmas Tree Mouse

Joseph Coelho, illustrated by Farah Shah

Puffin ISBN: 978-0241585481

At Home in a Book

In ‘At Home in a Book’, Lauren O’Hara introduces readers to nine classic tales through a combination of illustration and extracts. This is the sort of book which I would have loved as a child- one which can be explored in different ways, lingered over and enjoyed again and again.

Each book is introduced with an extract, followed by a cross section picture of the home central to that story. This is followed by additional information about characters and other details. Perfect for tempting children to explore one (or more) of these classic books, each section offers a taste of the story without spoiling it and allowing readers to have some understanding of the story before diving in.

But this is also a book to inspire the imagination and develop new stories. Gazing into the cottage Heidi shares with her grandfather, exploring below deck on the Jolly Roger or peeking into 221B Baker Street allows readers to engage with the stories in a different way, particularly if they are already familiar with them. They may question Lauren O’Hara’s interpretation of some of these homes or nod happily in agreement as her vision matches their own. It might inspire some to try capturing other favourite books in the same way- perhaps ‘Mole End’, 32, Windsor Gardens or the Buckets’ home.

The book also offers a world of nostalgia for adults looking back at some of their childhood treasures. It would make a wonderful gift for any booklover- old or young- as well as a lovely addition to libraries.

At Home in a Book

Lauren O’Hara

Puffin ISBN: 978-0241665794

Lockett and Wilde’s Dreadfully Haunting Mysteries: The Ghosts of the Manor

Matilda Lockett has what some might consider an unusual life. Whilst her aunt performs as Signora Valentina, a professional spirit medium, Matilda plays the part of Poor Dead Edna, convincing audiences of her aunt’s abilities. However, when her aunt is asked to visit Beauchamp Manor and rid it of the ghost which is haunting it, Matilda discovers that she really can see ghosts and soon becomes friends with Edgar Wilde, a ghost boy. Working together, they are able to solve the very real mystery of what is actually happening at the manor.

With Lucy Strange writing excellent stories and Pam Smy creating the most fabulous pictures, ‘The Ghosts at the Manor’ was sure to be a book which I would enjoy- and I loved it! The story offers an engaging mystery with a slightly spooky twist and lots of friendship, making it a wonderful read. Matilda and Edgar are lovely characters, who show what teamwork can do and whose partnership is sure to offer plenty more satisfying adventures to come. There are twists and secrets, ghosts and jewels, fakes and fortunes in this story, but at it’s heart is Matilda’s warm relationship with her aunt and ‘Uncle’ Barnabus and her new found friendship with Edgar.

The joy of the story is perfectly captured by Pam Smy’s lovely illustrations. These black and white images with touches of blue add a slightly eerie atmosphere, perfectly in keeping with the gently spooky nature of the story. Children are going to love reading about Matilda and Edgar and will clamour for more!

Lockett and Wilde’s Dreadfully Haunting Mysteries: The Ghosts at the Manor

Lucy Strange and Pam Smy

Walker ISBN: 978-1529516005

Midnight Treasure

Baron Ambrus is a powerful vampir, who lives in luxury in the House of Gold. With him live two orphans, Tibor, a werwolf and Rosa, a vampir who the Baron transformed into a dog to act as Tibor’s companion. When a powerful wizard, Kira Halim, visits them, bringing a magical statue, Tibor is told that he must take go on a quest to find the Midnight Treasure…

A new novel from Piers Today is always something to look forward to - and ‘Midnight Treasure’ is an incredible fantasy, perfect for this (or any!) time of year! Completely enthralling, I read this in one sitting, unable to drag myself away from Tibor and his world.

Gripping from the outset, the plot romps along at a pleasing pace, perfectly balancing world building with action and tension. Beautifully imagined and rich in description, the story builds towards a satisfying conclusion which still leaves plenty of potential for future books. Although pitched at a 9+ audience, this is a story which will be enjoyed by older children (and adults!) who will revel in the level of detail of this breath-taking world.

Tibor is such an engaging character, full of longing for the family he has never known and seeking to find his place in the world. Constantly supported by Rosa with whom he shares a deep bond, he gains the friendship and trust of other characters along the way, most notably Oldest, Slightly and Smallest, fierce warriors, and Bear Man and the tree bears.

It is really hard to review this book without giving too much away and spoiling it for others who have the joy of reading it yet to come. This is a world readers will long to return to, and I, for one, cannot wait for Tibor and Rosa’s next adventure.

Midnight Treasure

Piers Torday

Quercus ISBN: 978-1786541420

University of Cambridge: There's No Such Thing as a Silly Question

One of my favourite phrases as a teacher (and as a mum!) is always ‘there’s no such thing as a silly question’ which obviously led to children asking me some very weird and wonderful things! However, it is through asking those questions that curiosity is both satisfied and piqued, making ‘There’s No Such Thing as a Silly Question’ a brilliant book for both home and school!

Covering a wide range of subjects, each brilliantly illustrated spread presents the information in a question-and-answer format, offering readers clear explanations, written in a light-hearted, humorous style. There are questions here which you didn’t know you needed to know the answer to until you read them! Can spiders run out of web? Why don’t people snore when they are awake? What happens inside a black hole?

A very attractive and accessible book, this is perfect for dipping in and out of, but it is impossible not to spot a question which you just have to read the answer for! Although a supposed to be a book for children, ‘There’s No Such Thing as a Silly Question’ is sure to quickly become a family favourite, to be returned to again and again.

University of Cambridge: There's No Such Thing as a Silly Question

 Mike Rampton & Guilherme Karsten 

Nosy Crow ISBN:  978-1839947391

Life in the Wild

‘Life in the Wild’ is a fascinating book. In her note, the author describes it as ‘an intersection between science, story telling, adventure and conservation’ and it does indeed reflect all of these areas, making it a very accessible and enjoyable read.

Each chapter is devoted to an exceptional individual of different species, tagged and tracked by scientists to deepen understanding of their behaviour. Ten creatures are introduced followed by a map showing where they live and, in most cases, a tracked journey which they made. General information about the species is included and, for some, further information about conservation work is also given.

There are many books about animals available, but what makes this really stand out from others is the personal connection it offers. By sharing the real plight of 20741, a female adult polar bear, the reader feels a deeper empathy as the story of one illuminates the struggles of the many. The unique behaviours of each creature is sure to intrigue children and develop their interest in the incredible wildlife of our planet.

A wide range of animals is covered here, including some which perhaps get less exposure. Through the story of Sitka, readers learn of the rapid population decline of albatrosses whilst Bigonia’s tale offers a fascinating look at these intelligent, solitary creatures. Advances in technology have allowed scientists to learn more – and yet expose just how much still is unknown.

Each spread is beautifully presented using a mixture of photographs and illustrations, making the book as attractive as it is informative. A glossary and index are included and study references are also offered, allowing those who wish the opportunity to explore further.

Life in the Wild 

Lizzie Daly, illustrated by Chiara Fedele

DK  ISBN: 978- 0241634110

The Colour of Revenge

For five years, Mortimer Folchart, the bookbinder, and his daughter, Meggie, have enjoyed living in peace with their family and friends, leaving past events behind them. However, Orpheus Gemelli is determined to wreak revenge on those he believes betrayed him. With the help of an artist, he traps them all in a grey book, making them disappear into ink and paper. But things do not go quite according to plan and Dustfinger, his stepson Jehan, and a young girl called Lilia must save them all.

Anyone who has read the ‘Inkheart’ trilogy knows what an incredibly complex, richly detailed and absorbing world filled with unforgettable characters Cornelia Funke created. ‘The Colour of Revenge’ takes readers back to the Inkworld - and it was such a joy to return.

For those who have not read the previous books, a summary is given at the beginning of the book along with a list of characters to help them orientate themselves. The summary is written by Orpheus, allowing the reader to understand his motivation and desire for revenge, cleverly setting the scene and instantly piquing interest. However, although this story can be read as a stand alone, I cannot believe anyone will be able to resist reading the others!

Cornelia Funke is a powerful writer, depicting all sides of human nature, and does not shy away from portraying darker emotions, violent deeds and their consequences. The dark power of words, the all encompassing destruction of the desire for revenge, the ease with which some slide form one evil deed to another is all here- and yet so is the power of love, the strength of the bonds of family and friendship, the colours of affection.

‘The Colour of Revenge’ is an absolutely compelling and engrossing read. Although pitched at 9+, I personally would recommend it to older children- those in Y6, 7 and above- to immerse themselves fully in this world and its characters.

Will there be another Inkheart book? I hope so. I thought there would be no possibility of a return after ‘Inkdeath’ and I was obviously very mistaken…so here’s hoping!

The Colour of Revenge

Cornelia Funke, translated by Anna Schmitt Funke

Chicken House ISBN: 978-1913696184

Whispering Hollow

Pippa Newton loves nature and loves the time she spends with her grandfather at his cottage in the woods. Her brother, Jed, used to enjoy these trips as well, but now lacks enthusiasm. However, they arrive to find their grandfather reluctant to let them stay and Pippa soon realises that something malevolent is lurking, causing Grandpa to be fearful and act strangely. When Pippa disobeys her grandfather and creeps out into the woods at night to use her night vision binoculars, things quickly spiral out of control.

In ‘Whispering Hollow’, Rachel Burge has created a spooky tale, full of suspense and menace, perfect for the darkening evenings- if you are someone who likes a good scare! The strange behaviour of her grandfather, his unkempt appearance, the sinister twig men hanging around the house create a tense atmosphere from the outset, leaving the reader wondering what might happen next.

Set in Cornwall, the story draws on the rich folklore and traditional tales of that area with hidden folk, spriggan and changelings and the narrative moves between the two worlds. But the story is also about siblings and the deep bonds they can share, of loss and change and family and the wonders of the natural world, making it a satisfying read as well as a dark and creepy one.

Whispering Hollow

Rachel Burge

Welbeck ISBN: 978-1804536179

Why did my brain make me say it?

‘Why did my brain make me say it?’ is a wonderful collection of poems, loosely based around the passing of the school year. Full of word play and wit, there are poems to perform, poems to laugh at, poems to linger over- all to enjoy!

‘Love/Hate’ is not only perfect for starting discussions, but also for using as a model to inspire children’s own writing, allowing them to create phrases which capture what they consider to be negatives and positives. This could be done either individually or as a class and result in a fun piece of performance poetry. ‘Rumours’ is another poem which would be great fun to play with and present. Using kennings, ‘Granny and Grandad’ would be perfect for encouraging experimentation with this poetic device and no doubt, producing very satisfying results as children could describe their friends, family, pets…teacher?!

Many of the poems capture feelings or moments which children will readily recognise. in ‘Faux Pas’, a child has just called his teacher ‘mum’, something which happens with surprising regularity even in Year 6 classes! ‘Felicity’ is a poem about a friend who had moved away, leaving a huge hole in the child’s life. Many of the poems contain a surprise, benefitting from repeated reading- ‘Things Sian’s house house has that our house doesn’t’ for example.

The collection includes a wonderful range of poetic styles and devices, showing readers just how much fun poetry can be! Riddles, haiku (and Lie-ku and Bye-ku), shape poems, acrostics, opposites… so much to enjoy! I could comment on each and every poem, being inspired to share them with children and, in turn, inspire children by using them, but I think my favourite is ‘Growing a Poem’ which begins:

A poem begins as a seed

buried deep inside the imagination.

A must-have collection!

Why did my brain make me say that?

Sarah Ziman

Troika ISBN: 978-1912745395

The Midnight Mitzvah

Hanina Chipmunk loves to gather nuts and share these with her friends. She also enjoys the praise and compliments she gets for doing so when Mathilda Squirrel gruffly refuses her help, Hanina can’t understand. Leon Mouse explains to her that Mathilda used to be a champion nut collector and is embarrassed that she now needs help. Helping others is a mitzvah (a good deed), but so is not embarrassing someone, leaving Hanina wondering how to achieve both things. She decides to go and leave nuts at Mathilda’s house at night and is confronted on her journey by a Great Horned Owl. Fortunately for Hanina, the owl is sympathetic to her explanation for being out and about at night and lets her go on her way and accomplish her mission.

A note at the end of the book explains that ‘The Midnight Mitzvah’ was inspired by a 2,000-year-old tale found in the Talmud, one of the most important books in Judaism. However, this lovely story holds an important message for everyone, regardless of their faith. Charity is a wonderful, much needed thing, but is not something which should be done simply for reward or recognition. Hanina enjoys being praised for her good deeds, which is quite natural, but also learns that the outcome of a good deed is more important than this. This delightful story offers much to discuss and would make an excellent text for an assembly or PSHE session in school as well as for sharing at home.

The illustrations are delightful. Full of colour and atmosphere, they convey a sense of the threats of night time for the young chipmunk without being too frightening for little ones. Hanina has such a lovely little face she is sure to appeal to all readers!

Notes at the end of the book offer additional information about other elements of Jewish tradition and culture connected with the story, offering support for those not familiar with these, but keen to learn. It is a lovely book and one which should be added to shelves everywhere!

The Midnight Mitzvah

Ruth Horowitz, illustrated by Jenny Meilihove

Barefoot Books ISBN: 978-8888592359

Blog Tour: Shadow Creatures

I am delighted to be taking part in the Blog Tour for ‘Shadow Creatures’, the latest novel by Chris Vick, whose books are both inspiring and enjoyable.

When visiting her family in Norway, Georgy persuades her grandmother, Tove, and Great-Aunt Liva to tell her about Agna, an old woman, who Georgy saw in the woods. What was initially a ploy to avoid doing the dishes develops into a fascinating story of their youth and the horrifying experience of life under the occupation of the Nazis.

My very simplistic synopsis does nothing to capture the essence of this amazing story, but I didn’t want to fall into the trap of retelling the entire plot! ‘Shadow Creatures’ is a very powerful, compelling book, inspired by family history and incredible people.

Set in occupied Norway during World War II, the action is told as a duel narrative which moves between sisters, Tove and Liva. Fjernoy, a magical island special to the villagers, is turned into a desolate prisoner of war camp and many are forced to work there, seeing first hand the harsh treatment of those held prisoner. In the face of such evil, each individual has to decide what acts of resistance they are prepared to make and how they can balance their own and their loved ones safety with following their conscience. Each viewpoint is skilfully explored with the emotions and experiences of different character being vividly conveyed, filling the reader with great empathy and leaving them wondering how they might have acted if put in this position.

‘Shadow Creatures’ also celebrates Norwegian folklore as the sisters take inspiration from the Huldrefolk, the hidden people- nisse, nixie, huldra, trolls- who act in the shadows to cause mischief and bring trouble to those who cross them. Since reading ‘Shadow Creatures’, I have been hunting for books of Norwegian folklore and am determinedly planning a holiday…

Listening to family, valuing their memories, sharing family history and explaining the importance of family mementos- realising that older people were once young and lived fascinating (or very ordinary!) lives- is something which can be left until it is too late, but through his work, Chris Vick reminds the reader of the importance of sharing time and listening to family around us. Without the incredible memories and experiences of his family, this wonderful novel would not have been written- and that would have been a great loss.

Right and wrong, good and evil- sometimes these things are not as simple as they seem and decisions we make can be complex and have far reaching consequences. ‘Shadow Creatures’ would make an excellent novel to read with children in Y6/7/8, offering not only a wealth of historical and cultural detail, but plenty to consider and discuss. Beautifully written, deeply moving and inspiring, this is a brilliant book!

Shadow Creatures

Chris Vick

Zephyr ISBN: 978-1837933167

Many thanks to Zephyr for inviting me to take part in the Blog Tour.

(I apologise if my review is a bit rambling, but I am struggling with Covid!)

The Twelve

Kit and her little sister, Libby, find themselves with their mother on a winter holiday on the Welsh coast. When Libby vanishes, not even their mother can remember her - it is as if she has been erased from the world. Then Kit meets Story, a local boy, who clearly remembers Libby and determined to solve the mystery surrounding her sister's disappearance, they join forces, embarking on a quest which takes them into a world of myth and folklore, where Kit must face her fears to save her sister.

Deeply atmospheric and compelling, ‘The Twelve’ is a magical read, throbbing with ancient power and mystery. Perfect for those who love something a little different, it is thought-provoking, in places eerie and tense, but also a deeply satisfying adventure.

The relationship between Libby and Kit is really well developed and special. Often animosity and bickering characterise sibling relationships in books, but these sisters have a close bond. Libby is bubbly and energetic, full of passions and impulsive interests, at times exhausting to be around, but the two share wild imaginations and lots of laughter, meaning Kit’s sense of loss is sharp and real when her sister goes missing. Kit is a wonderful character. Tormented by a bully at school, she is vulnerable and full of self doubt; however, her new friendship with Story offers her someone who actually believes in her, someone who sees her worth and allows her gradually to come to see herself in a new light, find the courage she needs to save her sister and, ultimately, to seek help with her tormentor.

Stunning descriptions of the natural world underline the environmental message running through the tale. The beauty of the newly fallen snow, the wonder of the bird life, the power of landscape are all vividly conveyed, forming a magical background to a magical story. A perfect read for this time of year!

The Twelve

Liz Hyder, illustrated by Tom de Freston

Pushkin Press ISBN: 978-1782693987

Bothered by Bugs

Pete the badger is happily sharing a recipe book with the other woodland creatures when a pesky fly ruins everything. Soon all the animals are busy catching every fly they can find and putting them in jars. Then they notice that there are bugs everywhere and quickly scoop them up too. At last, the woods are free from all these pests…But the animals soon realise that with all the bugs in jars, there is no one to do the pollinating or break down all the waste materials.

‘Bothered by Bugs’ is another instant classic from the wonder that is Emily Gravett. Pete- star of the previous books ‘Tidy’ and ‘Too Much Stuff’- is well known for his love of neatness and order, but in this story, he learns just how important these ‘annoying’ creatures are to the ecosystem and how interference with the natural order of things can have a devastating impact on the environment. Told in rhyming text, the story is an absolute joy to read aloud!

The illustrations are fabulous, full of detail and humour, and children will have fun spotting characters from ‘Tidy’ and ‘Too Much Stuff’ who make an appearance. But the joy doesn’t stop there! Lift the dust jacket of ‘Bothered by Bugs’ and the book which Pete is reading, ‘How to Cook Fruit: A Culinary Badger’s Guide to Preparing Fruit’, is revealed, complete with tea stains and badger paw prints. There are recipes to try on the end papers, including a very tasty looking Summer Pudding which we will by trying! The inside cover of the dust jacket shows the bugs which the woodland creatures capture, offering an instant guide to insects, allowing children to become insect spotters and come to appreciate the roles which they play.

Perfect for using as a Book Hook for activities at a story session, for sharing at home or using to inspire work in school, ‘Bothered by Bugs’ is another must have title from Emily Gravett.

Bothered by Bugs

Emily Gravett

Two Hoots ISBN: 978- 1529028065

You can read my review of ‘Tidy’ here, ‘Too Much Stuff’ here and ‘Cyril and Pat’ here.

Murder at Wintertide

George and his father are heading for Lyme Regis for a family gathering to celebrate both his grandfather’s birthday and Christmas where the two halves of his step-family are coming together. This includes Isla, his slightly terrifying, very intelligent step-cousin. When a body washes up on the beach, George is convinced it has something to do with some strange lights he saw on the cliff top and together with Isla, he finds himself investigating the mystery. However, someone is determined to stop them…

Once again, Fleur Hitchcock delivers an excellent murder mystery! ‘Murder at Wintertide’ is a completely absorbing and entertaining read, every bit as enjoyable as the previous ‘Murder…’ books.

Perfectly pitched for Y6/7 readers, ‘Murder at Wintertide’ offers a captivating thriller complete with red herrings, plenty of peril and ‘pesky kids’ determined to solve the crime. Readers familiar with Lyme Regis, where the action is set, will recognise many of the details Fleur adds to the story, including the sculpture of ‘some famous fossil hunter’, and the descriptions of a seaside town in winter add much to the atmosphere of the story.

George makes an appealing main character and the complexities of his blended family life add plenty of substance and realism to the story. As his friendship with Isla develops, George realises that he has misunderstood someone who actually makes a brave an loyal friend, showing how easy it is to misjudge people. They make quite a team and it would be great to see them make a reappearance in a future book!

It is always hard to review this sort of story without giving too much away and spoiling it for others, but anyone who reads this (and everyone should!) will instantly recognise the skill with which Fleur writes these stories, making them every bit as enjoyable for older readers as for those they are officially aimed at! Thoroughly enjoyable, endlessly readable… another triumph!

Murder at Wintertide

Fleur Hitchcock

Nosy Crow ISBN: 978-1805132233

Published 10th October 2024

You can read my review of ‘Murder at Snowfall’ here, ‘Waiting for Murder’ here and ‘Murder in Midwinter’ here.

Thunder City

Tamzin Pook does battle with Revenants in Margate’s Amusement Arcade where she is the star fighter, having survived forty-nine fights. Others are not so lucky.

When a brutal coup takes place in the wheeled city of Thorbury, Miss Torpenhow, a teacher from that city, seeks Tamzin’s help, breaking her out of the Arcade. Events progress at a rapid pace and Tamzin finds herself part of an ill-matched group, banded together in their desire to free Thorbury- and find a new life.

No poor attempt at a summary could ever do justice to the perfectly paced, tightly plotted and absolutely absorbing experience which reading a Moral Engines book offers. It was an absolute joy to return to this world!

Set about a hundred years before the setting of the first book, ‘Thunder City’ is as imaginative and richly drawn as the other stories. It is easy to read it as a stand alone story, but for anyone who has read the other books, it is fascinating to see this world following the rules of Municipal Darwinism yet before the more ruthless town-eat-town era to come.

Tamzin is a wonderful character. Thrown into the brutal world of the Amusement Arcade, she has developed her own survival strategies, trying hard not to form attachments. However, with her freedom from this life, she learns she can trust and be trusted, forming new bonds, showing her to be a courageous and loyal friend. The other characters who become part of her group are equally well developed and believable (Miss Torpenhow is just brilliant!) and I am convinced that Philip Reeve will not be heartless enough to deprive the world of more stories leading from this wonderful beginning!

 Thunder City

Philip Reeve

Scholastic    ISBN: 978-0702335471

Book Tour: Freedom Braids

Today, I am bringing the Book Tour for ‘Freedom Braids’ to its conclusion. With October being Black History Month in the UK, this is a perfect book for starting conversations and celebrating the role played by courageous women.

Although a fictional story, ‘Freedom Braids’ was inspired by historical events. Nemy toils in the fields every day, working on a plantation in Columbia. One night, she follows Big Mother, one of the older slaves, and watches as she and the other women braid their hair. But these braids contain hidden messages, signalling the slaves’ intention to escape and offering guidance which leads them to freedom.

Lantana always produce beautiful, thoughtful books and this is no exception. On one level, it teaches readers about the importance, and significance, of braided hairstyles in the fight for freedom, but it is also celebrates the ingenuity, resilience and nurturing shared by women in these awful circumstances. The connection they feel as they share the collective experience of separating ‘sections of hair, just like their mothers, grandmothers, great grandmothers and ancestors had done’ is beautifully captured, a really poignant moment in a poignant story. It is a powerful, emotive read and one which will lead to many discussions- not just for Black History Month, but at any time!

A note by the author at the end of the book offers additional information about ‘these cornrowed maps’ and the illustrator’s wonderful artwork shows named examples on the endpapers. The illustrations throughout are really evocative and well worth lingering over. The cover image is stunning- the golden glow hinting at the freedom referred to in the title.

‘Freedom Braids’ will be out in all good UK bookshops on October 3rd and I recommend you order a copy now!

Freedom Braids

Monique Duncan, illustrated by Oboh Moses

Lantana ISBN: 978-1915244802

Many thanks to the lovely Katrina and Lantana for inviting me to take part today!

Free as a Bird

Jonas, the lighthouse keeper, wakes one morning, having dreamed about flying, free as a bird. Desperate to share with his friend, Blue the whale, Jonas sets off at once to find her. When he finds her, Jonas sees Blue has an exhausted bird on her head. Quickly, the friends take the bird back to the lighthouse where he is able to tell his story to Blue who can understand his tweets. Forced to flee from a beautiful country which is now in the grip of war, the little bird has undertaken a perilous journey in the hope of finding a safe place. As the little bird grows stronger, other birds arrive, singing the same song of freedom. Helped by Blue and Jonas, they stay until they have regained their strength before moving on, but their new friend has found a new home.

Revisiting the characters from ‘I Love You, Blue’, ‘Free as a Bird’ is a gorgeous story, celebrating the importance of compassion, love and a place to call home. Thought-provoking and moving, the story uses the idiom ‘free as a bird’ to explore the plight of refugees, cleverly contrasting the freedom from worry and trouble which the expression implies with the realities of the bird’s experiences.

To use another idiom, Blue and Jonas are the bird’s ‘lighthouse in a storm’, a place of safety where he is lucky to find a compassionate, understanding welcome. Their care for the bird and the refuge they offer to the many other birds who come seeking sanctuary is a joy to see as the book reaches its very satisfying, heart-warming conclusion. The illustrations are just delightful, full of charm and character.

A very powerful story, perfect for developing empathy, ‘Free as a Bird’ is a must have!

Free as a Bird

Barroux

Otter-Barry Books     ISBN: 978-1915659330

You can read my review of ‘I Love You, Blue’ here.

On the Wall

Finlay Tandy is not worried about starting Windfield’s School, but then Finlay doesn’t worry about much. At break and lunch times, he sits alone on an old wall, perfectly happy in his own company. Mr Goodhew, his teacher, finds himself watching Finley’s behaviour and the unusual responses it provokes from those around him as the class navigate their first year at secondary school.

‘On the Wall’ is a quite extraordinary book. It follows the fortunes of Finlay as he starts his years- ‘Another seven!’- at secondary school. Unlike many stories about this transition, Finlay is not a character plagued with self doubt, problems at home or bullying. He is someone who is completely content in his own skin, self reliant and ‘happy absolutely everywhere’. Completely unselfconscious, he is happy to just be- something which most of us struggle to achieve.

As his staff and classmates have different experiences, Finley influences them in different ways. Many don’t understand him, but somehow benefit from how at peace with himself and the world around him Finley is. The story is so beautifully observed with touches of humour and pathos, inspiring readers to be true to themselves and seek happiness in the here and now. However, this is a story you need to read- trying to describe it here cannot do it justice!

Perfect for anyone looking for something a little bit different, a calmer, ‘thinking’ story, ‘On the Wall’ is a really refreshing and enjoyable read!

On the Wall

Anne Fine

Old Barn Books ISBN: 978-1910646991