NEW AND UPCOMING RELEASES: Chapter books and Lower Middle Grade

Last week, the bank holiday weekend brought some much awaited book post that brightened up our three days as much as the weather did. With lazy lie-ins, the spring sunshine to enjoy and a whole extra day to spend page-turning, we were spoilt rotten with this new selection of chapter books and younger middle grade fiction. 

Unipiggle: Camping Chaos by Hannah Shaw

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Published by: Usborne, 28th April 2022

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Forget the kids! I LOVE Unipiggle. Reading this series is like soaking up a rainbow and it filled my Sunday morning with sparkle. Camping Chaos is the fifth Unipiggle book to be published and definitely my favourite so far. With a new setting, a whole host of new characters (including new animals) and some tasty treats, it's perfect for anyone who loves a bit of magical mayhem.

Princess Pea and Unipiggle are off on their first royal camp with the other royal princes, princesses and companions. But someone is out to sabotage the events and soon the finger of suspicion is pointing towards firmly towards them. 

With an engaging plot and fabulous illustrations, this new instalment is packed full of fun. There's a sneaky mystery to solve, some candyfloss chaos, tons of toasty marshmallows and lots of fabulous new friendships. The end of the story is heartwarming with a great takeaway message and of course there's a bit of Unipiggle magic too. We really can't wait for the next one and I'll be wanting first dibs!

Woodland Magic: Fox Cub Rescue by Julie Sykes and Katy Riddell

Link to Waterstones

Published by: Piccadilly Press, 17th March 2022

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This brand new series about tiny magical folk saving animals and trying to reverse the damage caused by humans is not only charming, it has a strong eco-message. Perfect for readers moving on from picture books, it celebrates the beauty of the nature and the importance of rewilding. 

In the middle of Whispering Woods live The Keepers - a secret tribe of  little people who spend their nights to care for the countryside. Cora and Jax, fledging Keepers, are desperate to pass their trial. But with the world of Ruffins (humans) proving strange and exciting, will they stay focussed on the job in hand?

Written by the author of Unicorn Academy and beautifully illustrated by Katy Riddell, readers are emerged in both fantasy and reality. The set-up of the world is great - reminiscent of The Borrowers and Mrs. Pepperpot - and the plot and themes of the story will appeal to nature-lovers, animal-lovers and fairies. Teamwork and friendship is also championed in the book as well as responsibility, the importance of not shirking your duty, using initiative and being kind and caring. I loved how the characters made mistakes and then worked to put them right and seeing the actions of the ruffins (us) through the Keepers eyes is really...well...eye-opening. And, with more books on the way, I think this is definitely a series to watch. 

A big thanks to NetGalley for allowing me a review copy. 

Space Detectives: Cosmic Pet Puzzle by Mark Powers and Dapo Adeola

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Published by: Bloomsburys, 12th May 2022

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Hooray! The 12th May is going to be an outta-this-world kind of day because that's when the third Space Detectives mystery is released. Cosmic Pet Puzzle definitely wins my vote for my favourite cover yet and promises another great adventure...

When a one-of-a-kind synthpet goes missing, Connor and Ethan are stumped. Surely a creature with the legs of a cat, the tail of a crocodile, rabbit ears and a duck's bill should be easy to spot, right? Well, not on Starville where EVERYONE looks different. As Connor and Ethan try to solve the puzzle, it seems that this lost pet has disappeared into a black hole...

This is a great detective story for younger readers. Slightly shorter than the previous two books in the series, the plot is a pocket rocket that explodes across the page with pace and pizazz. The reader is launched straight into the action and their are plenty of twists and lots of action to keep us engaged. 

With the setting of Starville and the main characters, Ethan and Connor, now really well established, there's a host of new characters and settings within the world to enjoy. The prologue is a returning feature and helps to seed the clues for younger sleuths to pick up on. The creatures are cute, the plants are snappy and the people are not necessarily to be trusted. The story is the perfect length for readers who are developing their confidence and independence and the good news is that there's still plenty potential for future adventures. 

Treasure Under the Jam Factory by Chrissie Sains and Jenny Taylor

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Published by: Walker Books, 7th April 2022

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JAM-PACKED with surprises galore, a sticky adventure, hilarity and adorability comes the second in the series of Chrissie Sains 'Jam Factory' books. If you enjoyed An Alien in the Jam Factory, then you're in for a treat, for this sequel is bursting from cover to cover with even more adventure and mayhem, new characters and a more complex plot. 

Scooter McLay has been working non-stop to make the grand re-opening of McLays Jam Factory jamtastic. But when Daffy Dodgy returns to claim what his rightfully hers, Scooter finds himself in a sticky situation: find the money to buy back the factory or let Daffy steal all his ideas. But then Cat, a girl with a treasure map, turns up claiming that the factory is sitting on a hidden treasure trove. Can Scooter, Cat and Fizzbee find it before Daffy does? And just what is sneaky crook Perry Pincher up too?

This is a great, fun and light-hearted story for anyone who loves inventions, quests and hilarious characters. With pirate treasure, secret jam recipes, booby traps and spoonfuls of imagination, it reminded me of The Goonies but with an edible twist. Fizzbee brings the cuteness and cleverness, Scooter and Cat provide the determination and both Daffy Dodgy, Perry Pincher and their animal sidekicks are deliciously dastardly (and hilarious). I particularly enjoyed Daffy Dodgy as an older villain and her guinea pig is just genius. 

Scooter is a great MC - a disabled character with bagfuls of brilliance thanks to his hyper-creative brain. And, like his jam, his story packs a punch. It's sweet and it's fizzy, with a touch of craziness mixed in for good measure, and is brilliantly illustrated by Jenny Naylor. One thing's for sure, Chrissie Sains definitely has the secret recipe for an enjoyable and successful lower middle-grade series. I only hope there's more to come...

Mort the Meek and the Monstrous Quest by Rachel Delahaye and George Ermos

Published by: Little Tiger, Jan 2022

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Brutal and barbaric, this second in the series of Mort the Meek makes Mr. Gum and The Nothing to See Here Hotel seem completely straight-laced. This hilarious comedy is grim, dark and disgustingly gross but will have you howling with laughter. 

When the Queen of Brutalia orders her people to set sail to find her treasure, Mort volunteers to search the waves. But it's not treasure he's interested in, his family are lost at sea and this is his chance to find them. 

But when Mort is paired with fierce rock-crusher, Punky, and they stumble across a mythical sea monster with a fearsome reputation, his quest goes awry. Will he ever find his family? And can he stay true to his pacifist pledge and make things right?

Rachel Delahaye, who is a BRILLIANT comic writer, has hit on a highly original concept for this series. Living on a brutal island where there is no mercy, Mort wants to be a pacifist. What makes this second book so gripping is that, underneath the fishy gags and the razor sharp text, there is a real internal and poignant struggle for Mort as he battles with the loss of his family and the stormy emotions he feels as a result. I loved this exploration of Mort behaving out of character and Punky's story arc is equally moving. There's no denying, however, that the story is absolutely bonkers. I laughed out loud, I snorted tea, I shared the jokes at the dinner table. Brutalia is definitely a fantastic fictional world that would be a real-life nightmare and readers can enjoy all the action whilst revelling in the fact they are not actually there. 

Without giving too much away, the highlight of the book for me though was the discovery and treatment of the mythical monster. Here we are left with, yet again, a powerful takeaway about the destructive nature of humans. The singing scenes made me cry salty buckets and left me in doubt that this is brilliantly skilful storytelling: gross, gruesome and guffaw-inducing with a beautifully gentle touch. I highly recommend it for all crazy adventurers out there who are looking for a fast-paced, hilarious story. 

Summer Reads: Middle grade round-up

There have been so many superb middle grade releases this summer, it's been really hard to keep up. I've tried hard to stay on top of my 'to be read' pile but the truth is, it's now taller than me!

What I have been spoilt by, however, is the return of some absolute favourites. Sequels that I just haven't been able to resist because the worlds are just so magical and enchanting. And they certainly haven't disappointed! From vengeful fairies to vanishing rooms on a ship to mysterious jinnis in a desert, these books are pure escapism...

The Battle for Roar by Jenny McLachlan, illustrated by Ben Mantle

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Published by: Farshore Books, July 2021

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This is the book I wanted to read as a child. It's the world I wanted to go to and its the adventures I wanted to have. Jenny McLachlan's imagination has everything a fantasy reader could want: paradise islands, a ninja wizard who can conjure marshmallows, flying dragons, a mermaid best friend and a playground island built by fairies... Just don't expect everything to be quite as it seems.

Rose and Arthur are returning to Roar! This time they're sailing past The End with Win and Mitch on an expedition of a lifetime. But Arthur is uneasy. Crowky appears to have gone for good... but has he really?

Everything seems fine until a mysterious and magical storm descends on the ship. Soon, the crew have more to worry about Crowky. Someone's out for vengeance and they won't stop until Roar is destroyed...

This series, for me, has always had strong echoes of Peter Pan. Its childhood innocence and the celebration of all things joyous is both delightful and magical to read. And yet lurking in the shadows are all the quirky things that a young child finds scary: Crowky, Bendy Joan, an enormous cat..., all of which give the story a creepy and unsettling edge. The plot is unpredictable and inventive and the new settings keep the story fresh and exciting. 

With only Rose, Arthur, Win and Mitch at the core of the action this time, Jenny McLachlan creates a fabulous and tight dynamic between the four, punctuated with sharp dialogue and humour. Most of my favourite lines were between Win and Mitch and the ninja wizard really steals the show in this book. As a result, the overall mood of the novel is kept fun and light-hearted, even through the darkest parts of the adventure. That doesn't mean that there isn't plenty of drama and seriously high-stakes though, because there is. The question is, will Roar survive?

Woven through the plot are themes of friendship, teamwork, survival and right and wrong. There's lost girls, a ninjabread army (utterly brilliant!), dragons, fairies and mermaid hot tubs. The description of the food is mouth-watering, the weather delightful and the illustrations by Ben Mantle simply a joy. On top of all that, the end is as twisty and turny as the tide, but whether it's a happy one for Arthur, Rose and Roar, I couldn't possibly say...

The Secrets of the Stars (The Ship of Shadows-Book 2) by Maria Kuzniar

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Published by: Puffin, July 2021

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This magical series about a band of female pirates is rich, intoxicating storytelling at its best. Join the pirates as they travel across the globe on The Ship of Shadows, a vessel steeped in secrets, shadows and sorcery...

The race is on to find the second piece of the map that Captain Quint so desperately craves. But crucial pieces of the puzzle are alluding Aleja, leaving her frustrated and confused. 

When she starts having strange visions, Aleja becomes convinced that somebody is trying to tell her something. But tensions are running high and time is running out. Can Aleja lead the crew to the map and prove she's a worthy pirate?

Reading this sequel was like returning to a family and a much-loved home. The descriptions of the ship are so vivid you can almost smell the salty sea air and hear the deck creaking. There's a deep sense of magic and mystery lurking below deck but also a playfulness, with its appearing and vanishing rooms (I loved the pub!). Most of all though, Maria Kuzniar makes the pirate ship feel like the comforting, safe haven we all crave.

There's a real grown-up edge to this book. Unlike Rose and Arthur in The Battle for Roar, who are returning to the imaginary land of their early childhood, Aleja finds herself in a deadly world of pirates and assassins, about to undertake a secret quest of epic proportions. There's battles and weapons, storms and heists and, as Aleja discovers, absolutely no room for error. Yet again, Kuzniar makes this cut-throat crew feel like family. There's a wonderful, funny and touching dynamic between Aleja and Frances, romance and relationships, pets and pet shadows and, of course, the ever-present and comforting presence of cake!

The danger, however, is real. With tigers, hot-air balloons, icy lakes and a ruthless enemy, these pirates live on the edge of survival. If you like your magic edgy and combined with ocean voyages and adrenaline-fuelled action, then this is the book for you. It sits at the more confident end of middle-grade readership but is completely encapsulating. Every single sense is engaged as you read and the layers of the plot are meticulously planned. Here's hoping that, with two more pieces of the map to find, the journey isn't over just yet...

Moonchild: City of the Sun by Aisha Busby, illustrated by Rachael Dean

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Published by: Farshore Books, April 2021

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Moonchild: The Voyage of Lost and Found grabbed me in 2020 with its rich imagery, intriguing story and highly distinctive narrative voice. Told out of sync and peppered with fables and stories within stories, this is high-concept storytelling that works.

The adventure continues with Farah's story. Since the Moonchildren unlocked the moon magic, the world has become dangerously unbalanced. With daytime disappearing completely, Farah and Amira travel deep into the desert to find the City of the Sun and the answers they seek...

Inspired by Arabian Nights, this is an intoxicating story of friendship and bravery. The storytelling brings the reader's senses to life and the visual imagery is stunning. The plot, to me, felt fresh and unique and I loved the relationship between the character's and their jinnis. 

The stakes are incredibly high in this sequel. Time is of the essence and that adds a real drive to the tale. Aisha Bushby showcases her imagination with brilliant settings and I adored the City of the Sun. It's the perfect length for the slightly younger end of middle-grade readership but for anyone struggling with the initial jumping around of the story, stick with it, it's totally worth it!

There's a lot of pearls of wisdom within the pages of this book and it does feel like a twist on a classic. The story is timeless and magical, beautifully told, with strong characters and I'm not sure we've seen the end of them yet...

Our Summer Round-Up Of Middle Grade Books (including what's coming up!)

Summer! And what a scorcher! Although there's never much time to review in the holidays, our reading time definitely increases. With lazy lie-ins, sleepy stories in the shade and trips to the library to complete the summer reading challenge, we've been whizzing through the pages. I've even been lucky enough, courtesy of NetGalley, to get my hands on some brilliant upcoming releases...

Fight Back by A.M Dassu

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Published by: Scholastic, June 2022

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Following the success of Boy, Everywhere, A.M Dassu has released her second novel, Fight Back - a powerful story about identity and fighting hate and discrimination. 

When Aaliyah and her friends are caught up in a terrorist attack at a local pop concert, fear grips both her and her community. It's not long before Muslims are being blamed  for the event and Aaliyah herself becomes the target of abuse. 

Determined to fight back, Aaliyah makes the decision to wear a hijab at school. But when the school responds by banning all religious symbols, will she find support to continue her fight?

With an easy-to-read, accessible voice, this is a fantastic read for teens, young adults and adults alike. Although a fictional novel, it's clearly based on real-life events, giving a moving and deeply thought-provoking insight into the devastating impact of terrorism and the division, fear and hate it creates within a community. 

What I particularly love about this novel is that it is firmly grounded in the life of a teen and full of school, friendship, older siblings and banter. And yet, amid all this, Aaliyah is grappling, not only with the horrors of the terrorist attack, but with the verbal and physical attacks she experiences on a personal level. With tensions running high, family, friendships and the stability of the whole community are threatened. This is the story of one girl's fight to make a difference. 

A.M Dassu's writing makes you feel all the emotions, whilst opening readers' eyes to the truth of the world. It calls for change in the most important way - by showing, not telling, the story of a character we care about and who bridges the gap between fiction and reality. It's enlightening, empowering and needs to be in every library, school library and classroom! 

The Great Fox Illusion by Justyn Edwards

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Published by: Walker Books, April 2022

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Another brilliant read for upper middle-grade and teen readers is The Great Fox Illusion by Justyn Edwards. The first of a series, this is the story of Flick Lions, a young magician taking part in a TV show to win the prize of a lifetime...

The Great Fox is dead and now Flick Lions has been chosen to compete in a TV series to win his legacy. But solving puzzles and revealing the secrets behind magic tricks to win the prize is not what Flick is interested in. The Great Fox destroyed her family and she will go to any lengths to uncover the truth and put things right. 

Hooked in just by the title, this debut novel really got my attention when I read an extract in WRD magazine. Not only does it appeal to readers who love mystery and sleuth stories, it also goes one step further by giving us the USP of magic tricks and illusions. Who doesn't want to know the secrets behind these -  well, apart from Flick? But the fun doesn't stop there. Set in a mysterious, old house full of endless secrets, with the addictive feel of a reality show, Justyn Edwards has really pulled it out the bag in terms of pace, plot and puzzles. It's Now You See Me ( a brilliant adult film) for children in book form and utterly mesmerising. 

Flick is a great character. Slightly stand-offish at the start, I quickly warmed to her as we learn about her internal struggles and the high stakes that are involved in her bid to find the truth. Charlie creates a lovely balance to her reserve (as well as being totally loveable) and the mix of villains - both adult and child - works brilliantly. It was also great to see an amputee take centre stage as the main character and there are some poignant moments as Flick manages this.

For me, this ticks every box for a series. It's imaginative, packed full of puzzles and geniously put together. I absolutely can't wait for the next one...

UPCOMING RELEASE: Ember Shadows and the Fates of Mount Never by Rebecca King

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Published by: Hachette, 18th August 2022

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Perfect for slightly younger or less confident readers, this is another high concept, debut novel with a brilliant premise. Similar to The Nightsilver Promise but on a simpler level, it features a girl without a fate...

When Ember Shadows receives a blank fate card, she has no idea what it means for her future. But when her sister's future also comes under threat, Ember resolves to journey up the mysterious Mount Never, through forbidden realms, to uncover the secret of what binds her people to their destiny. 

With echoes of Labyrinth and Escape to Witch Mountain, this is a clever play on the often asked question: are our fates set or unset? Brilliant envisaged but not over-complicated, it explores humanity's fears about knowing or not knowing the future and the freedom to make choices. I absolutely loved the set-up of the novel, the forbidden realms of the mountain and the way the threads of fate were portrayed. 

Ember is a fantastic character, relatable particularly by her motivation to help her nearest and dearest rather than herself. She is a strong but scarred heroine who pushes boundaries and asks the important questions. There is a strong theme of grief running through the novel, which I also found poignant, and which brings an extra layer to Ember's character. 

In the same way as in The Wizard of Oz and Alice in Wonderland, Ember also attracts a following of quirky, lovable and fabulously original characters on her journey. I defy anyone not to love Hans but each one is great in their own right. The journey is also compelling, with each realm offering a freshness to the novel. The chapters based around fear were particularly powerful and Rebecca King doesn't hold back in her exploration of this. It was a thoroughly enjoyable, powerful read and I'm excited to discover that, despite standing alone, this is set to be a series. 

UPCOMING RELEASE: The Whisperling by Hayley Hoskins

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Published by: Penguin, 1st September 2022

After hearing so much about this novel, I jumped at the chance to get my hands on a review copy (thanks NetGalley). This didn't disappoint. A dark, gothic novel, set in the late 19th century, this is compelling, character-driven writing that pulls you in from the get-go. 

Focusing on poverty, the persecution of women that are different, corruption in the church, child labour, the dangerous working conditions of the 19th century and miscarriages of the justice system, including capital punishment for young adults, this might seem like a heavy read. And yet, Hayley Hoskins, another incredibly talented debut author, has woven all of these themes into a captivating story that I didn't want to put down. Laced with humour and underpinned by friendship, this is a ghost story you won't forget in a hurry...

Peggy is a whisperling. That means she can talk with ghosts. Keeping her gift hidden is hard enough, especially when the Reverend Silas Tate is on to her. But when her best friend, Sally, is accused of murdering her employer, Peggy must travel to the city and use her gift to find the truth...before Sally faces the death penalty. 

Despite claiming to be more of a contemporary writer, Hayley Hoskins has nailed the world of 1897 Victorian Britain. Both the world and the characters jump vividly off the page, immersing us in the sights, sounds, smells and attitudes of village and city life. The characters of Ambrose, Cecily and Oti are brilliant fun and then there are the touching relationships that Peggy has with her mum, dad, little Bertie and, of course, Sally. 

The plot is action packed. There's heartbreak and horror and probably the most chilling villain I've read in a long while. Also prepare for some last minute twists and turns and a nail-biting race to the conclusion. With a writer as talented as Hoskins and a whisperling as gifted as Peggy, let's hope there might be more to come. 

UPCOMING RELEASE: The Lost Girl King by Catherine Doyle

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Published by: Bloomsbury, 1st September 2022

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The latest offer from this very established author brings us an adventure based on Irish fairy tales. Perfect for fans of Lord of the Rings and those who love both folklore and portal fantasies, this is a story full of danger, magic and a quest to save a loved one. 

When Amy and her brother Liam are packed off to Connemara to visit their gran for the summer, they soon find themselves in the legendary world of Tír na nÓg. But it doesn't take long for them to realise that something is very wrong and when Liam is kidnapped by an army of headless horsemen, Amy, with the help of a greencloak, the Fianna and a pooka squirrel, must find a way to save him and free the land from an evil curse.


This story is classic in feel. There are strong parallels to Narnia with a land cursed by an evil ruler and yet the story and the world-building is very different in feel. Amy is a headstrong, outspoken and not always likeable main character and yet her inability to listen, her ability to speak the truth and her steely courage makes her a strong, feminine lead in a world of men.


I really enjoyed the different landscapes in the novel. From forest, to castle, to fang lands, to swamps, the settings keep the story pacy and compelling. I found the unsual presense of adults in the novel - the Fianna warriors who are comparable to Aragorn and the elves in Lord of the Rings - really interesting and, for me, this brought to the fore something I haven't seen in a while in a fantasy story. Oscar and Culaan make for a great side story and I love how the relationship between Amy and Oscar develops.


The dual narrative between Amy and Liam works well. It offers us an intriguing insight into the world of the villain - a terrifying mage - and offers clever foreshadowing to the twist at the end. If you love fairy tales, magical worlds and epic quests then this is the book for you.

 

MIDDLE GRADE NOVELS FOR AUTUMN...

Autumn has started with a bang this year. Following on from a whole summer of reading, these novels have prevented me from getting the back-to-routine blues. From a theatrical ghost story to a fantastical, world-jumping adventure to the finale of a thrilling spy series, there's something for everyone in this array of new releases...

Spooked: The Theatre Ghosts by Steven Butler, illustrated by Claire Powell

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Published by: Simon and Schuster, 1st September 2022

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Following on from The Nothing to See Here Hotel series - an hilarious collection of books for 7-9 years olds - Steven Butler has released a middle grade novel, Spooked: The Theatre Ghosts. Set in a run-down seaside village, it focuses on the discoveries made by Ella as she settles into her new home...

Moving to Cod's Bottom is NOT what Ella Griffin had planned for her life. Having to leave behind her theatre group friends in London was bad enough but her new home seems to have nothing to offer except cantankerous neighbours and spiteful residents. But when Ella discovers an old,abandoned theatre everything changes. For this beautiful, historic building is anything but empty...

This is a cosy, uplifting character-led novel, full of quirky personalities and a crumbling, memorable setting. Perfect to read around Halloween or at any time of the year, it offers the fun-factor rather than the fear-factor. As Ella makes friends with the theatre ghosts, so does the reader and it's great news to hear that this is going to become a series, as it will feel like revisiting a whole host of lovable family relations. I particularly loved the three poodles and watch out for the elusive pair of legs!

Although the pace and the plot potters along, Steven Butler evokes a strong feeling of both fun and nostalgia within the pages of this book. There's the hint of a mystery, some hilarious antics and a not-unusual-but-particular-nasty villainous pair to thwart. Convinced that I'd predicted the plot, there was a shock-gasp twist at the end that had my heart in my mouth and which leaves the series wide open. What will happen next? I can't wait to find out. This story, to me, feels like a pair of cosy pyjamas as the weather turns colder, a bakewell tart and a hug in a mug...all the good things! 

A big thanks to NetGalley and Simon and Schuster for allowing me a review copy. 

Which Way to Anywhere by Cressida Cowell

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Published by: Hachette, 15th September 2022

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According to Cressida Cowell, the former Children's Laureate, this story has been 25 years in the making and, boy, are you in for a treat. Which Way To Anywhere, as with all of Cressida Cowell's books, shows off the true depths of her creativity and imagination and will whisk readers away to an unparalleled world on an unrivalled adventure...

K2 is widely considered as being hopeless, especially by his annoying step-siblings, Theo and Mabel. Yet K2 and his sister, Izzabird, are hiding the secret that they are from a magical family and that K2 actually has the gift of drawing maps of worlds that are REAL!

When their baby sister, Annipeck, is kidnapped, the warring step-siblings must use K2's gift to travel to a dangerous world to rescue her. But do they have the power to defeat an abhorrent monster and a robot assassin? And can they unite their family before it's too late?

Aside from being an epic fantasy novel packed jam full of maps, monsters, robots, predator plants, walking trees and potions, Cressida Cowell also uses this story to explore two major themes. Many readers will surely relate to K2's awkwardly blended family and their journey towards finding common ground and also to the subtle but cleverly constructed eco-message regarding the impact humans can have on a planet. Both of these elements drive the story forwards with impact and heart, allowing readers to think. 

As, again, with all Cressida Cowell's novels, all the above is mixed up with a huge dollop of humour and bags of quirkiness. There's some great characters to watch out for and some awesome dynamics. I particularly loved Annipeck and her total command of Cyril Sidewinder and K2 is a lovable, hapless hero. There were some strong similarities to Cressida Cowell's Wizards of Once series, although providing a total different adventure and, for me, it also evoked some echoes of the film, Labyrinth.

With her fabulous language and unique storytelling style this is a treat for all fantasy lovers and adventurers. And, with more books to come (I hope!), the adventure is far from over...

A big thanks to NetGalley and Hachette for allowing me a review copy. 

Vi Spy: The Girl with the Golden Gran by Maz Evans

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Published by: Chicken House, August 2022

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It's back, it's brilliant and it's the final battle for Vi Spy in The Girl with the Golden Gran. Spoofy and utterly hilarious but with more heart than any Valentines Day, this is the spy series of the century...

Valentine Day is facing the mission of a life-time. With Umbra laughing at her family from space and set on world domination (and destruction), time is running out to save the planet. But when Vi faces the devastating news that her gran's clock is also counting down, her own world begins to crumble. Can she find a way to save everything and everyone, especially the gran she loves?

This series is action-fuelled adventure mixed with comical capers mixed with family. Maz Evans is not only a master at humour but also at capturing the heart-breaking and heart-warming emotions of divorcing parents and blended families. Being shut up in space together quickly brings things to a head for Vi's warring relations, allowing the kids to show the parents how its done. 

The plot brings a whole host of surprises in book three. Without giving away two many spoilers, prepare for some extra-terrestrial encounters and a dramatic space rescue. Then there's the show-down with the dastardly Umbra and a highly emotional, poignant but fitting twist at the end. Everything is, consequently, wrapped up as neatly a Christmas present and I can't quite believe it's the end of such a fabulous series - I can't recommend it enough!

Fear Ground by Jennifer Killick

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Published by: Farshore, 1st September 2022

Following on from her Alex Sparrow series and Crater Lake and Crater Lake Evolution, Jennifer Killick brings us the second of her Dread Wood books, Fear Ground. Unlike Spooked: The Theatre Ghosts, this very much brings the fear factor from the start so grab a blanket, or a friend, turn the lights on (or off if you're brave enough) and prepare some some hair-raising, spine-chilling action. 

When creepy game, Flinch, becomes the new craze at Dread Wood High, everyone is keen to join in the fun, including Angelo and his gang. But soon the fun turns to fear when everyone starts acting strangely. Who are the faces behind the clown masks and what is going to happen at the fair? Things might be about to come to a head...

For me, Jennifer Killick raises the game, and the goosebumps, with every book. Already familiar with the characters and setting, this one hooked me in from page one. It's everything you want in a horror novel; fast-paced, chilling and yet perfectly balanced with teen friendship and banter. 

The set-up works really well. Set in the same school with the same characters as book one, the plot is completely different and yet there is a follow-on, which any new readers could latch on to fairly quickly. The fair adds a new dimension and definitely ups the fear-factor making it a brilliant read for Halloween. The writing and dialogue is addictive as always, also making it the perfect for binge reading in one sitting. 

A big thanks to NetGalley and Farshore for allowing me a review copy. 

New middle grade releases to get excited about...

This month is going to be a treat when it comes to new MG releases. There's a Barrington Stoke book from Katya Balen for those looking for a pint-sized, perfectly-packaged read, a nail-biting Parisien  adventure and a new fantasy from Struan Murray, author of the Orphans of the Tide trilogy. What's not to get excited about?

Little House by Katya Balen, illustrayed by Richard Johnson

Published by: Barrington Stoke, 14th March 2024

In Three Words: Grief, Grandparents, Dolls

As with all Balen's novels, this is a beautiful gentle story which explores grief and abandonment and hope. There's a lovely burgeoning relationship too between the main character and her grandfather as Juno comes to terms with her mum going away. 

Juno is furious when her mum leaves her with her grandfather for the summer to go and help those in desperate need. Now Juno will miss a whole summer with her friends and it's all her mum's fault for choosing to leave. 

But when Juno finds an old doll's house in the attic and decides to restore it, she begins to understand the reasons behind her mum's decisions. Can she find a way to forgive her?

This is a small novella which poses big questions. Is Juno or her mum the selfish one? Written with a huge amount of heart and hope, Katya Balen doesn't shy away from emotional issues, allowing her characters to rage, reflect and restore their sense of hope. 

I loved the pure simplicity of this story, which is captured perfectly in the front cover by Richard Johnson. Aside from the big issues, Katya Balen writes about the everyday in such a unique and fascinating way - with incredible language and a soothing lyrical rhythm. We would absolutely recommend all her of previous novels and novellas. 

Secrets of the Snakestone by Piu DasGupta

Link to publisher

Published by: Nosy Crow, 14th March 2024

In three words: Paris, Sewers, Jewels

If you're looking for a gripping, fast-paced fictional adventure that's set in 19th century Paris, has a backstory set in India and is inspired by historical places and events, then Secrets of the Snakestone is a must-read. It's dark and twisty narrative will whisk you away to the streets of Paris, the sewers of Paris and the rooftops of Paris and, if that isn't enough, then add in a circus, a railway and some secret passages for good measure...

Zelie doesn't believe in magic, despite people thinking she is a witch. But when she meets a boy, Jules, who is holding a golden locket which belonged to her missing father, Zelie is plunged into a sinister adventure.

A dangerous and secret society is on a ruthless search for the Snakestone - a powerful and mysterious jewel that was once kept inside the locket. If Zelie finds the stone, she knows she'll find her father. But can Zelie keep herself alive? She's going to need help to find it in time...

This is a novel that means business. The dark and sinister atmosphere hit me smack between the eyes and, right from the off, the pace is like a horse bolting from a starting gate. Zelie, a mistreated maid, is a great character facing overwhelming odds and Jules was the perfect - but very reluctant - sidekick. 

The villains we meet are ruthless. From Madame Malaise to Brother Ombre, the author gives a clear sense of what the poor suffered at the hands of the powerful. There's lies, corruption, deceit as Zelie and Jules navigate an adult world that's as rotten and dank as the sewers. And yet there are lighter moments too with Madame Drusilla and Titicaca the baby sloth, whose wellbeing took up a lot of my thoughts.

 There was a magical layer as well to this tale, with the evil power of the snakestone. Whether the story will develop into a series remains to be seen but there is definitely the potential for us to see the snakestone again. The backstory had been superbly plotted and really added to the story as a whole. It's a fast and furious read that you don't want to miss. 

The Secret of Moonshard by Struan Murray, illustrated by Vivienne To

Link to publisher

Published by: Penguin, 29th February 2024

In Three Words: Magic, Science, Deception

Struan Murray won the Bath Children's Novel Award with Orphans of the Tide in 2017 and it went on to become one of the best upper middle-grade trilogies I've ever read - dark, twisty and atmospheric - which then won the Branford Boase Award. Now, his new fantasy is about to hit the shelves and I couldn't resist a sneak peek, courtesy of Netgalley. The length of this novel does mean that it's not for the faint-hearted but if you're after an epic adventure filled with magic, mystery and incredible characters, then it's absolutely worth a read:

Domino has been held in a floating laboratory by scheming Science Barons ever since she was born, believing that a single drop of magic could kill her. But then she discovers everything she's been told is a lie and escapes to a wondrous city filled with magic, thunder lizards and scientific marvels.

But a war is brewing between science and magic and the Barons are after Domino, possibly because she might be the key to saving everyone . . .

This feels very different in tone to the Orphans of the Tide trilogy but the world-building is equally imaginative. Floating laboratories, moving hotels and imaginative creatures - I loved Oshi - are just some of the things you can expect in this meticulously plotted tale. Again, this sits at the upper end of MG and is perfect for more confident readers. There's a large cast of characters and the storytelling is ambitious. 

Domino is a character I immediately found myself rooting for and, for me, there were some gentle echoes of Oliver, although I can't quite put my finger on why. There's high stakes and ruthless baddies but the story overall has a more playful feel than Orphans. Some of the magic is really fun but I'm not going to give away any more spoilers - this is one readers need to explore for themselves. 

A big thanks to NetGalley and the above publishers for allowing us review copies. All of these books are available to buy or pre-order now. 

It's here! Our spooky Halloween round-up 2023...

Vlad, The Fabulous Vampire by Flavia Z. Drago

Link to publisher

Published by: Walker Books, September 2023

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Following on from Gustavo, The Shy Ghost in 2021 and Leila, The Perfect Witch in 2022, Vlad, The Fabulous Vampire is a heart-warming and endearing story about a vampire who tries to hide his uniqueness. The fear of being different to other vampires is something that terrifies him. But, maybe he’s not as different as he thinks…

Vlad has a passion for fashion and being a vampire means black fashion is his preference. But Vlad has something other vampires don't...ROSY CHEEKS! Can Vlad find a way to hide the embarrassing thing that makes him different or is that what makes him special?

These stunningly-produced picture books have become our annual Halloween treat. Flavia Z. Drago uses startling Halloween colour palettes and yet proceeds to turn well-known ‘spooky’ characters into highly loveable, gorgeously-endearing characters. Not only does the artwork steal your heart but also the genuine earnestness of each character; a shy ghost, a witch who strives to be perfect and an embarrassed vampire. These are not bold, in-your-face heroes but ones that are quieter, gentler and more reserved in tone, making them highly relatable and humbly appealing.

This was probably our favourite story of the three. Partly because we loved the combination of black and pink, but also because it has such a great twist that we actually didn’t see coming. Simple but cleverly plotted, it is the perfect story for whole families to enjoy together. Little ones can enjoy spotting the familiar faces from Gustavo’s world and there’s something new to spot in the illustrations with every repeated read. If you’re after something unique and memorable which will give you a distinct feeling when you read it, this is definitely it. 

Grim Falls Academy by Louise Forshaw

Link to publisher

Published by: Maverick Publishing, September 2023

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This trilogy of chapter books from Louise Forshaw is not only supernatural, it’s SUPER spooky as well. Set in a boarding school for supernatural kids, it has a loveable trio of main characters – a werewolf, a vampire and a…er…human? – with a supporting cast that includes a mummified bully and a living skeleton for a headteacher…

Don't Eat the Soup - something very weird is happening at Grim Falls Academy. Teachers are losing their memory and growing tentacles! Can Seb and his friends get to the bottom of this tangled mystery?

Don't Feed the Glob - When their Mad Science teacher, who is acting weird, gives Seb and his friends some tiny globs of slime to look after, it's not long before they grow completely out of control. Seems that Seb, Victor and Tabby have a STICKY situation on their hands...

Don't Open the Box - when Seb finds a hidden box in the school, he just has to open it. But suddenly a troll is wrecking havoc and the school has turned into a giant maze. Just what has Seb unleashed and can he, Victor and Tabby sort it before the school is destroyed?

This is Louise Forshaw’s debut as an author-illustrator (previously an illustrator only) and she’s done a sensational job with both the words and the highly engaging pictures, which drew all of my kids in with one glance. For me, the stories felt like Goosebumps for a younger audience and they are perfect for readers who don’t mind feeling just a little bit scared. Each book is packed full of twists and turns, a fast-moving, high-stakes plot and wacky scenarios that are deliciously devilish and highly thrilling; characters that sprout tentacles, a sinister knotweed maze and greedy growing globs. What’s not to love?

As well as having strong themes of friendship and teamwork, each story includes a gentle exploration of accepting who you are, controlling emotions and taking responsibility for your actions. We loved the familiar feel of a spooky setting combined with endearing characters and imaginative and original plots. Even better, it appears that the last page ends on the possible promise of more to come. We really hope so because three books just wasn’t enough. We want to see more of the characters, spend more time in the school and see the trio of heroes battle more villainous shenanigans.

When Frankie Made A Human by Rachel Delahaye, illustrated by Maite Schmitt

Link to publisher
Published by: Sweet Cherry Publishing, September 2023

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Perfect for the spooky season, this twisted tale of Frankenstein sews together a very clever concept with an endearing main character, fun world-building and an exploration of human behaviour. 

Frankie is lonely. He's not like the other monsters in Monsterweld and he wants a friend. But when he decides to grow a human, will things work out the way he hoped?

This is a really sweet story and just the book for young readers, aged approximately 6-8 years, who love monsters but don't want to be scared. Frankie is an instantly loveable and relatable character who feels left out because he lives high up on a mountain and is a different sort of monster to everyone else. We also loved Igor and Frankie's scientist mum who insists on Frankie studying science. 

By creating a world where monsters and humans are now separated, Rachel Delahaye is able to explore some great themes. The set-up of Monsterweld is really interesting, where everyone is respectful of their environment and has just enough food to sustain them. Humans live differently, however, and this is cleverly shown through Fido's character. It was nice to see he wasn't all bad though and that change is always a hopeful possibility. There's definitely a lot packed into the short word count and we'd love to see more stories from this world. 

Kevin the Vampire by Matt Brown, illustrated by Flavia Sorrentino

Link to publisher

Published by: Nosy Crow, 14th September 2023

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We are big fans of Flavia Sorrentino's cover art and this brightly-coloured number drew us in like a vampire is drawn to blood. Except for Kevin, that is. Kevin is not your average bloodsucking vampire. His family run a carnival and it's Kevin's dream to be a dragon rider like Gogmagog. But an unexpected adventure is about to befall him...

Kevin and his family are on the way to Monstros City. But when their Batnav goes wrong, they end up in a human town called Lower Drudging. In desperate need of gold to continue their journey, they decide to put on a show for the locals. But humans from Lower Drudging don't want anything to do with monsters and, besides, they might be hiding a monster secret of their own...

Full of great world-building, fun and charm, this, for me, has a Roald Dahl vibe to it. With horrible aunts, a miserable mayor and a cast of unusual and memorable characters, it is a high-stakes, fast-paced adventure that readers of all ages can enjoy. Other comparisons include Vlad the World's Worst Vampire and The Addams Family, making it a book that is perfect for the spooky season but which can also be enjoyed all year round. 

Matt Brown has created some lovely twists that set this story apart from other vampire stories. Kevin is able to enjoy daylight, for example, and although his family have little experience of humans, they are excited to meet them (although, unfortunately, the humans don't feel the same way.) Kevin and Susie are great characters and I liked the way the narrative switched between their two stories. This enabled the pace to stay strong and made the climax of the story more satisfying, as we were invested in both characters. There's some great little fact-files to break up the chapters and lots of scope for future adventures. 

So, if you're looking for a fun, light-hearted and spooktacular new series to get hooked on, this is definitely worth a read. 

Bella Bright and the Ghost Game by Carolyn Ward, illustrated by Beatriz Castro

Link to Waterstones

Published by: Welbeck Publishing

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If you're looking for a traditional type of ghost story set in a haunted house with cobwebs, flickering lights and slamming doors, then this is the book for you. Bella Bright and the Ghost Game will give you all the feels; hair-raising thrills and chills mixed with a warm injection of friendship and a poignancy that will make your heart ache...

Bella Bright moves from place to place, fixing up old buildings with her mum. So when they first arrive at Darkling Manor in Castleton, Bella is simply faced with another new school, more mean girls and the reality of not fitting in. But Darkling Manor clearly has secrets and, when the 'deadly duo' Skylar and Regan, invite themselves round for a Halloween sleepover, things quickly take a sinister turn. Soon, Bella and her visitors are drawn into a game of Hide and Seek with a ghost called Alice. But can they solve the mystery behind the game in time and will Bella have a shot at finding real friends at last...or lose them all?

This is a cracking story that doesn't hold back on the fear factor. Carolyn Ward pushes the boundaries of scary for middle-grade readers whilst balancing it beautifully with the trials and tribulations of the life of a 12-year-old. The characters are real and relatable (I loved Lex but watch out for Skylar!) and Alice's story is simple but heart-breaking. 

The novel has a strong, pacy structure with clever plotting and a definite escalation of spookiness. I really liked Bella's story arc and her over-riding longing for friends. With secret passages and tons of creepy crawlies, Carolyn Ward's imagination was both fantastic and atmospheric. This is a novel you need to read under a blanket by firelight. Alternatively, you may want to keep the lights firmly on!

The Vanquishers by Kalynn Bayron

Link to publisher

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Published by: Bloomsbury, 28th September 2023

Cinderella Is Dead is one of my favourite YA reads and Kalynn Baron's middle-grade debut is Waterstones Book of the Month for October. I can see why! This is a vampire series for younger readers, offering all the spookiness, adrenaline and tension that you'd expect but with friendship and family at its heart...

Malika - or Boog as she is known - and her friends, Jules and Cedrick, live in a close community in San Antonio, Texas where their parents and elders are struggling to shake the fear of a past where vampires existed. But everyone knows that every vampire was wiped out by the Vanquishers during The Reaping so Boog can't understand why they are still acting so strangely. 

But when their new friend Aaron goes missing, it triggers an unsettling chain of events. Could it be that history is about to begin all over again..?

This story has a fairly gentle start, building to a gripping, cliffhanger ending. It hooks readers in by inviting them into the lives of a tight circle of friends who don't quite fit in and who are dealing with all the usual, everyday things most pre-teens are. But the ordinary is about to become extraordinary as we begin to learn about the community's past and the rules around how vampires existed. Kalynn Baron builds the tension slowly but brilliantly - drip-feeding information and making the readers piece the clues together for themselves. I definitely had goosebumps before the action even began!

This is definitely the beginning of an epic series. Ultimately, the characters are really likeable and I was fully invested in them by the end of the novel. I loved how there were references to well-known, much-loved vampire stories but that Baron has twisted the established vampire rules into new ones, whilst keeping all the things we love/fear about them. I also loved the exploration of the unbreakable bond of true friendship.

Dreadwood: Deadly Deep by Jennifer Killick

Link to publisher

Published by: Farshore, 31st August 2023

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We've reviewed Jennifer Killick's fabulously spooky novels many times on the blog and choosing to read one around Halloween will guarantee to give you the shivers. The fourth book in the Dread Wood series is definitely one of our favourites (although we love them all!) due to the very different setting and chilling, thrilling monster...

Angelo and his friends are on the school trip of a lifetime - a research trip aboard a boat in the Mediterranean. But their unease soon turns into horror when they find themselves face-to-face with a creepy man on a sinister mission and a deadly sea monster with the power to kill them all. How will the four get out of this one?

This is Titanic mixed with Halloween - a deliciously chilling read with a cracking pace and lifebuoys of humour to stop you from sinking into absolute terror. For me, the absolute star of the show was Karen - a brilliant and almost loveable villain who will stick in my memory for a long time to come. But, as always, the banter of the group and the brilliant Mr. C were also completely on point. Jennifer Killick is a genius when it comes to writing teens and Gus especially becomes more endearing with every book. 

I really enjoyed the slight change in format with Book 4 and the way the future of the series has been secured with a cliffhanger. We're really excited that Dread Wood has been extended to at least two more books because, as long as they keep being written, we'll definitely keep buying them for the guaranteed jitters and jokes. 

Read, Scream, Repeat created by Jennifer Killick

Link to publisher

Published by Farshore, August 2023

This collection of THIRTEEN spooky short stories is a Halloween TREAT! You only have to look at the list of incredible authors who have contributed a tale to get excited. From Kirsty Applebaum to Phil Hickes to Jasbinder Bilan and Jennifer Killick herself - these are just a few of the exceptional writers who have penned an original story for the collection. 

If you don't fancy reading a full-length spooky novel, this is the perfect book to dip in to. The stories can be read in any order or can be savoured over several Halloweens if you'd rather just enjoy one or two. There's a great selection to choose from. Titles include Wolf Moon, The Light Bulb, Underlay Underlings and The Green Ghost, but it feels a shame to only highlight one or two in the collection when ALL the stories are incredible and every reader will bring their own personal preferences. This is a trick or treat lucky-dip that you can explore yourself. Which tale will be your favourite and which will give you frightmares?

In our house there are always too many books to read in too short a time. Sadly, we didn't manage to fit in every spooky read we were hoping to. However, these books are on our pile to enjoy over our Halloweeny half term: 

Dead Good Detectives: Ghost Rescue by Jenny McLachlan - we really enjoyed the first in this series and Jenny McLachlan is one of our favourites. 

The Witchstone Ghosts by Emily Randall - Emily Randall won the Times Chicken House Prize 2021 with this story (then called The Flood Child) and we've heard all good things.

January releases: Picture Books full of hope, belief and the power of the imagination...

Hooray for January 7th! Not only was the day wonderfully sunny but it also marked a whole host of new children's books being released into the world - a bright array of picture books, chapter books, middle grade and young adult destined to lift our spirits in these difficult times. 

Some of these books we've already had the pleasure of reviewing. The Boy Who Met a Whale by Nizrana Farook offers up a thrilling Sri Lankan adventure whilst The Valley of Lost Secrets by Lesley Parr takes us deep into the Welsh countryside, alongside evacuees Jimmy and Ronnie, in a enthralling story that is bound to be a future classic. Meanwhile, story godmother Amy Sparkes has conjured a spectacular magical fantasy with The House at the Edge of Magic, beautifully illustrated by Ben Mantle. These are just a few recommendations from a brilliant selection of new offerings, many of which we still have to read. 

It was a double whammy for Amy Sparkes on Thursday, as she also released her picture book, The Secret of Me, published by Studio Press and illustrated by Sandra de la Prada. 

This book sends a strong and inspiring message to young readers: Dream big and never put limits on what you can become. As we follow the children in the story, who are considering what they want to be when they are older, we are taken into the wildest realms of their imagination as they reach for the stars and explore the dreams that are special to them. 

From riding dragons to cartwheeling through stars to building homes for giants, these children harness their limitless imaginations to explore endless possibilities for their future. Each page turn offers hope and promise and sparkle-something our next generation needs to be filled with in abundance. There is a still a massive capacity for hope and aspiration and creativity and empathy in our world and it is never stronger than in little people. This book harnesses the power that children's imaginations hold beautifully; be who you want to be and never stop believing in possibilities. 

Amy Sparkes is donating 5% of author royalties from this book to Ickle Pickles - a charity which donates neonatal intensive care equipment to hospitals. 

Another picture book, released on January 7th, which harnesses the power of believing is the magical There's No Such Thing as Unicorns, written by Lucy May Rowland and illustrated by Katy Halford. As with The Secret of Me, this is a fabulously illustrated story that is written in simple but completely charming rhyme. 

When a little girl is told that there are no such things as unicorns, she sets out to prove that they exist. It's not long before her certainty starts to waver but she doesn't give up searching...was she right to believe all along?

This unicorntastic, colourful read instils a very similar message to the book above; believe in the impossible and don't let anyone tell you 'you can't' or that 'there's no such thing...' The strength of the little girl's belief has a big pay off on the final page and WOW! - what a dazzling illustration to finish on. 

Both of these stories have a lot in common. They are fun, light-hearted, imaginative, colourful, inspiring and hopeful. They are perfect for all readers who love unicorns, rainbows, magic and daydreaming...isn't that most of us? I'm hooked as much as my little ones are...

New year, New books: A sneak peek at 2024...

2023 seemed to pass in a blur of brilliant reads. From awesome adventures to laugh out loud comedy to some beautiful tear-jerking tales, we met characters - both human and animal - that will stick in our memories forever. 

But a new year inevitably brings new books and we are already super excited to read some much-awaited sequels as well as some brand new offerings. In fact, over the festive period, we have taken the chance to take a sneak peek at what's a-coming and, from picture books to chapter books to middle-grade, it's already shaping up to being another fantastic year...

PICTURE BOOKS

We are the Wibbly! A Tadpole's Tail by Sarah Tagholm and Jane McGuinness

Link to publisher

Published by: Bloomsbury, 28th March 2024

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In Three Words: Funny, Adorable,Educational

We've known about this one for a while and feel so lucky to have been able to read it early, courtesy of NetGalley, because it is ace. Telling the story of one tadpole's transformation from wibbly to frog, this is a picture book that every KS1 teacher will be crying out to have on their bookshelves...

OH MY CRIKEYS! Everything and everyone around me is changing. First we is the wibblies and now nothing is staying the same. What is happening to them...and what if it doesn't happen to me?

Nailing an hilarious voice and a child's anxious viewpoint perfectly, Sarah Tagholm explores what change can look like to little ones and the importance they place on those around them. If everyone is changing, then why aren't they? Can they do what everyone else can do? And what if they can't? Besides, what is this change anyway? What on earth is going to happen next?

Alongside all these humany questions, is also the simple but brilliantly executed tale - or tail - of a tadpole's journey from frogspawn to frog. Fitting in with topics such as life-cycles and nature, it will capture children's fascination and interest in a thoroughly entertaining way, enriching their understanding and curiosity. Even older children will be chuckling along and uttering the catchy catchphrase: OH MY CRIKEYS! Throw in the most adorable illustrations from Jane McGuiness and what you have is a perfect picture book package. 

Please by Simon Philip and Nathan Reed

Link to publisher

Published by: Bloomsbury, 18th January 2024

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In Three Words: Brilliant, Bonkers, Manners

We've read quite a few stories about manners over the years but this is, by far, the most brilliantly bonkers one. If you struggle to remember to say 'please' then prepare to be whisked off on a rip-roaring journey that will never let you forget again...

Uh-oh! Bill wanted ice-cream but forgot to say please. Now he's been kidnapped by alien toads, crash-landed in a jungle and has had an unexpected encounter with a yak. What's going to happen next? Will Bill ever find a way to get his sweet treat?

Told in bouncy, upbeat rhyme, this cautionary tale will make readers laugh out loud whilst also imparting an important life lesson. Manners cost nothing and using them might save you from upsetting those around you. But instead of hammering the message home in a dull and didactic way, readers will have a whale of a time predicting what crazy thing will happen to Bill next. 

The voice is as hilarious as the illustrations and the repetitive refrain is a delightful and funny treat. Each spread is as random as the next and you can just imagine the author having the time of his life writing this text. Little ones will surely want to invent their own scenarios too and the ending leaves you with another big laugh. This is exactly what everyone needs to read in January...as long as they remember to say please!

Meet the Dinosaurs by Caryl Hart and Bethan Woollvin

Link to publisher

Published by: Bloomsbury, 18th January 2024

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In Three Words: Dinosaurs, Rhyme, Learning

Another great book for the classroom is the latest in the Meet the... series. Following Meet the Planets, Meet the Oceans and Meet the Weather, Meet the Dinosaurs is perfect for any dinosaur enthusiast but also a brilliant introduction to these prehistoric beasts. 

Have you ever wondered where those old bones in the museum actually came from? Well, now is the time to find out! Why not get in the truck and travel back in time on a dino-safari to meet who those bones belonged to?

Perfectly pitched for young children, this well set-up picture book begins in a museum and explains the age of the dinosaurs in a fun but easily understandable way. The bold and vibrant illustrations by Bethan Woollvin have been joyful in all of these books but are perfectly suited to dinosaurs, allowing them to leap out from the page. From Bront-to-saur-us to Dip-lod-o-cus to the infamous Ty-ranno-saur-us, the rhyming text is packed full of factual information about the dinosaurs' diet, habitat and features and even helps new readers with pronunciation by breaking down the long names. The language is both child-friendly yet challenging with some brilliant sound words and dynamic verbs. This is a lesson that both children and adults will not want to miss, made even clearer by the fabulous timeline at the end.

Once Upon a Storytime by Gareth Peter and Natelle Quek

Link to publisher

Published by: Bloomsbury, 15th February 2024

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In Three Words: Fairytales, Love, Reassurance

If you're looking for a lyrical, bedtime story then this gorgeous picture book is really special. With stunning illustrations and a heart-warming message, it's perfect for snuggling under a blanket with and reminding little ones how much they are loved.

Nia and her mum love reading adventure stories and fairy tales together. But Nia has some questions. If the scenarios in the stories ever happened to her, would Mum come and find her? Even if she stumbled across a wicked witch in a gingerbread cottage or was about to be gobbled up by a grouchy giant? 

But Mum has a question too! What would happen if SHE ever got lost? Who would come and save her?

Told in beautiful, lyrical prose, this story draws on the fairy tales we know and twists them into a gentle tale of love and reassurance. Highlighting the special bond between a mother and daughter, it can also be used by any parent, grandparent, family relative or carer to help a child feel secure and settled before bedtime. We loved all the different settings and adventures, brought to life by the incredible illustrations, and it definitely left us with a lump in the throat and in need of a warm hug. Although real life doesn't always offer us the happy endings that fairy tales do, this shared story will empower readers, both young and old, with hope and the knowledge that they are special, unique and important. 

When Dinosaurs Walked the Earth by Sean Taylor 

Link to publisher

Published: July 2023

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In Three Words: Big and Small Dinosaurs 

This picture book was actually published in 2023 but we missed it back then and thought it was too good not to point out. With a repetitive text and brilliant larger-than-life characters - called Smallosaurus and Badasaurus and Worseasaurus - it's the voice that makes this picture book absolutely hilarious.

Smallosaurus just wants to eat a patch of juicy ferns. But Badosaurus isn't going to let her eat them in peace. And that's the way it sometimes was when dinosaurs walked the earth...until Worseasaurus comes along...

This is a tale of a small dinosaur coming out on top in a laugh-out-loud hilarious escapade. It deals in facts in a totally deadpan way and is a definite must for Jon Klassen fans. Told with a very child-like perspective, it will appeal to the sense of humour of young listeners who are very likely to ask for it over and over. These are the picture books I am most in awe of; those with minimal text but which just get how to make children (and adults) laugh and laugh and laugh. 

A big thanks to NetGalley, Bloomsbury and Quarto for allowing us to preview these texts. 

CHAPTER BOOKS

Princess Katie's Kittens: Poppy and the Prince by Julie Sykes, illustrated by Sam Loman

Link to author website

Published by: Piccadilly Press, 4th January 2024

In Three Words: Princesses, Kittens, Adventure

The fourth instalment in this re-released series by Julie Sykes becomes available today, offering another gorgeous story which centres around palace kitten, Poppy. Following on from her siblings, Poppy is keen to find a way out of the boot room and explore...although a rather unpleasant experience is waiting for her. 

When Princess Katie's cousin, Prince Edward, comes to visit, Katie is really excited to spend time with him again. But Prince Edward soon announces that he is far too grown-up to play with Katie anymore and sets about teasing her kitten, Poppy. 

Poppy can't understand why this visitor is being so unpleasant to her. But when the pair go missing at the same time, things come to a head. Will Poppy find herself in danger or can she handle the situation?

This series has become a firm favourite in our house. With a familiar and reassuring format, gentle characters and a dual POV which switches between Princess Katie and her kitten, each book is easily accessible with a managable reading length and a heartwarming adventure with a subtle message. 

In this story, Prince Edward's treatment of Poppy is both unkind and unacceptable and teaches children, through both Katie and Poppy's point of view, how important it is to treat animals kindly. This is all gently wrapped up in a lovely adventure which involves mazes and picnics and family. There's a lovely exploration of Prince Edward's character and a great resolution which I really didn't see coming. Great for newly independent readers, this oozes charm and warmth.

Middle Grade

Stitch by Padraig Kenny

Link to publisher

Published by: Walker Books, 4th January 2024

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In Three Words: Frankenstein's monster, Friendship, Humanity

I've been in awe of Padraig Kenny's writing ever since I read The Monsters of Rookhaven and this new, relatively short novel inspired by Mary Shelley's Frankenstein absolutely tugged on my heartstrings. Simply told, the story takes us on an exploration of what it means to be human and what it means to be different. 

Stitch and his friend, Henry, are alive - creatures created by Professor Hardacre. But when Professor Hardacre dies and his troubled and ambitious nephew takes the helm, things take a sinister turn. Determined to progress science by experimenting on Henry, Stitch is horrified by the professor's intentions. Can Henry and Stitch escape?And what will become of them if they do?

Both Stitch and Henry - but especially Henry and his innocence - are incredibly special characters who will leave a monster-sized imprint on readers' hearts. Yet, as the story unfolds, it becomes increasingly clear who the monsters actually are. Challenging attitudes and preconceptions of anyone who is 'imperfect' or 'different', Padraig Kenny's paired back narrative only serves to make the impact of the tale more powerful - the simplicity of it allowing us to see the truth in a compelling yet clear way. 

The length of the novel and the way it is told makes this rather literary story accessible. There's twists and turns and lots of hooks, an exploration of motives, conscience and the reasoning (or justification) behind actions and, most importantly, an exploration of acceptance. I was really sad when the novel ended and am wondering if we'll ever get to see more of Stitch and Henry's adventures...  

Beastlands: Race to FrostFall Mountain by Jess French

Published by: Piccadilly Press, 18th January 2024

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In three words: Beasts, Quest, Adventure

If you're looking for a novel that's full of danger, pacy adventure, thrilling beasts and exciting flora and fauna then this is an absolute must-read. Despite reading a lot of 'magical beast' stories recently, the imaginative world-building and confident writing of this fantasy novel hooked me in faster than a beast could bite me. Not only that but the narrative, as fast-moving as a river, kept me absolutely gripped. As the story of three different main characters evolve, their stories soon collide in a epic quest of discovery and realisation. 

Before people, there were beasts. But now people have arrived on the island of Ramoa, beasts are feared and the cities keep the citizens locked in and the terrible beastlands outside. But when sky-rider Kayla's beloved pagron is stolen, she is desperate to find him. Alone in the beastlands, she soon encounters a failed warrior, Rustus, and a healer, Alethea, who are each on their own missions. Can the three of them unite to find what they are looking for and have they been told the truth about these terrifying beasts?

Although a fantasy novel, the expertise of author Jess French - who is a veterinary surgeon, zoologist and children's TV presenter - is plain to see. The world-building is edgy and the beastlands are fierce and yet there is a plethora of exciting beasts and plants for the reader to encounter. Each of the three main characters bring something different to the novel in terms of personality, drive and motive and there are certainly fireworks when their paths cross. I loved the plotting and the pace and found myself thinking about the world long after I had finished reading. 

In terms of theme, there is a definite exploration of the impact humans have on their surroundings. Fear, survival, prejudice and disease are also prominent as is social hierachy and control. I loved the character's burgeoning respect as they unravel the truth and also the gentle eco message. This is a cracking novel and definitely one to watch.

Libby and the Manhattan Mystery by Jo Clarke

Link to publisher

Published by: Firefly Press, 4th January 2024

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In three words: New York, Actresses, Jewels.

There is something so utterly charming about this mystery series. Perhaps it is the concept of a travelling school or the relatability of the characters or just the cosy and unthreatening atmosphere that Jo Clarke evokes in her writing, despite there being plenty of peril for Libby to contend with. Whatever, the secret ingredient is, this series has gone down a storm with both myself and my ten year old and this third instalment, set in New York, is full of danger and excitement... 

Libby is looking forward to settling in New York for the next school term and things get off to an exciting start when Connie's godmother - famous actress Eloise Fitzwilliam - asks them to help her and her friend, Count Alverez, organise a charity auction. But Libby soon spots that Count Alverez is acting oddly and might not be all he seems. Is he planning something unsavoury or is there someone else behind the puzzling palava?

This is the perfect read for younger middle-grade readers or for anyone who just wants to cosy up and do a bit of sleuthing. The fact that each mystery is set in a different part of the world instantly makes the books exciting. Throw in food, friendship and the coolest boarding school you'll ever encounter and you have all the ingredients for a corker of an adventure. Just like with Alice Eclair, Spy Extraordinaire and other school detective novels for this age-group, there is also something reassuring in the format - each adventure is different and yet we know what we're getting. The level of peril is just right on the notch-dial and readers know they are in capable hands with Libby. I also really enjoyed the more personal mystery, regarding her own family, that Libby is encountering throughout the novels. This has left the series open to even more interesting developments. 

City of Spies by Iszi Lawrence

Link to publisher

Published by: Bloomsbury, 4th January 2024

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In Three Words: History, Plots, Spies

Set during the American War of Independence in the year1780 and based largely on facts, this is a gripping historical novel full of spies, traitors and difficult decisions. Packed with action and compelling twists and turns, the costumes and corruption created an atmosphere of such danger and intrigue, it was hard to put down. 

The war for American independence is raging in New York and twelve year old Aiden Blaise is sure that the British are on the verge of winning. But Aiden's certainty is soon shaken as he discovers that the city, where he is desperate to prove himself, is full of spies and secrets. As Aiden gets drawn into a tangled web of lies and deceit, can he decide what is right and wrong and can he hold his nerve?

It was really exciting to see a middle-grade historical novel set outside both the First and Second World Wars and outside of British soil. However, occasionally the language was a little confusing and it might have been useful to begin with a short historical overview to help readers establish who was on which side, although I was reading a proof copy. However, the characters carried the story brilliantly and the level of danger and deception felt immediate and gripping. 

There were a lot of key figures and historical detail in the narrative. I was fascinated by the end papers and the information about the Culper Spy Ring, George Washington, Benedict Arnold and James Rivington. There was a lot to learn and absorb and Iszi Lawrence achieves this by placing readers right in the thick of the action alongside Aiden Blaise. I loved Aiden's realisation of not necessarily being on the 'right' side and the subsequent exploration of the complexities, justifications and devastation of war. The personal and human cost really rang clear and I'd highly recommend this to competent readers who are looking for something a eye-opening and different.