Seasonal Round-Up: Christmas is coming...

What The Ladybird Heard At Christmas by Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks

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Published by: Pan Macmillan, 13th October 2022

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What The Ladybird Heard, with its farm animal sounds and repetitive language, was a firm favourite with all three of my children when they were toddlers and, even though they are now school-age, they always love to hear a new story in what has become a BIG series. What The Ladybird Heard At Christmas is the fifth title to be published and offers a seasonal take on the original story. 

Ladybird is off to a big, old house to visit her friend Spider for the festive season. But villainous crooks, Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len, are lurking in the shadows and when Ladybird hears their plan to steal the presents out of the children's stockings, she just has to do something about it. 

With the usual fabulous illustrations from Lydia Monks and a slight variation in animal sounds, this story, as with the others, offers something familiar yet different. The rather sinister plot of foiling two thieving criminals is kept humorous and light-hearted with the heroic Ladybird devising another clever scheme that brings about a satisfying ending and a win to the true-hearted animals.

Although Christmastime is the setting for this story and an appearance from Santa is evident just from looking at the front cover, I particularly enjoyed the fact that the animals remain the star of the show and the structure we've come to love is enhanced, not over-shadowed, by the festivities. The plot does evoke a slight Halloweeny feel in parts, but this certainly doesn't take away any of the Christmassy enjoyment. Whether you've read any of the other stories or not, this is a great Christmassy picture book to share with your little readers. 

The Big Christmas Bake by Fiona Barker and Pippa Curnick

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Published by: Happy Yak, Quarto, 4th October

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This picture book is a great big Christmassy hug which made my tummy rumble. Combining our nation's love of Bake Off  (and who doesn't love Christmassy baking anyway) with a very popular Christmas song, The Twelve Days of Christmas, it focusses on the twelve days AFTER Christmas, rather than the Christmas build-up, and the tradition of baking a twelfth night cake. This is an element of Christmas which has perhaps become a bit lost in British culture but which still remains very popular in other countries and it was lovely to see it being brought back to life. 

"Christmas Day is over now,

                                                                       Santa's been and gone.

                                                                       But Christmas lasts for twelve more days!

                                                                       Let's put our aprons on..."

In a clever twist from author Fiona Barker, it is not the 'true love' that is bringing the gift of animals (and rings) but the animals bringing the ingredients for a twelfth night cake - an idea that illustrator Pippa Curnick has run wild with, whipping up dancing hippos, festive penguins and flour bags full of pure joy. The five gold rings are beautifully adapted and there are some lovely extras at the end which include a recipe and the original song. There's not much else to say except...On the first day of Christmas, I really hope Santa brings us this book! 

A big thanks to NetGalley, MacMillan and Quarto for allowing us a review of both of the above picture books. 

Kid Christmas by David Litchfield

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Published by: Frances Lincoln Children's Books, 4th October 2022

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A new picture book from David Litchfield is always a delight and Kid Christmas delivers the perfect festive package of a gorgeous story wrapped around stunning illustrations. This has the feel of a timeless classic - a story that will bring generations together and which  grannies and grandads will love just as much as little ones. 

Nicky Claus works with his three uncles in the Claus Brothers Toy Emporium. But when, one day, he discovers a huddle of homeless children who will never be able to afford a toy, he devises a grand plan to bring happiness to EVERY child in the city. 

This is a cosy, heart-warming story about friendship, about Santa as a child and how the legend of Father Christmas was born. However, it also highlights the more serious issues of homelessness and poverty - that are still very relevant today - as well as giving up a glimpse of what a child's life might have been like in the past. Through skilled and gentle storytelling, David Litchfield raises fundamental questions up for discussion: what is the true meaning of Christmas? How can we address the inequality that plagues our society? What is fair and unfair?

As Nicky Claus befriends a homeless girl, his hopes to create a better world is infectious. The friendship itself is more powerful than the presents, the kindness behind the gesture more moving than the actual act and we are left with a powerful reminder of how things should be, rather than how things are. I loved the role of the firefires, the generosity and kindness of the children who have nothing and the big dreams and determination of the Claus brothers to bring about the impossible. It's a moving tale that will definitely be read in our house for every Christmas to come. 

Supertato: Evil Pea and the Beanstalk by Sue Hendra and Paul Linnet

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Published by: Simon and Schuster, November 10th 2022

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Bringing us a refreshing and funny alternative to a Christmas story, Supertato presents a pantomime adventure starring evil pea as the main act: Jack in Jack and the Beanstalk. Bringing his own interpretation to the role, Evil Pea makes his way through the well known story, supported by a cast of our favourite supermarket veggies. 

When Jack and his Supermum have to sell their cow for beans, Jack is not impressed and flings them away. But when he discovers the beans have turned into a beancumber, he sets off on an adventure and steals some eggs from a golden hen. But the hen belongs to a giant (watermelon) who is not happy to find he's been robbed. Can Jack and his supermum become 'escapeas' or will they get caught?

This is an hilarious addition to the Supertato series and possibly our favourite. My autistic daughter loved the splat-stick ending, making me read it over and over again, and even my husband came to join in the fun - making it a family event not unsimilar to enjoying an actual pantomime. Evil pea adds extra humour in his reluctant casting as Jack and there a lots of familiar pantomime lines to join in with - oh yes there is!

Supertato is great in his supporting role as Supermum and there are lots of appearances from familiar favourites. Golden Pineapple made me laugh out loud and you might recognise the giant from a previous Supertato story (I didn't but my son did, proving that children are so much quicker at making connections). It's fun, it's festive (but without a Santa hat in sight) and it fizzes with happy energy - we loved it!

Unipiggle: Fairy Freeze

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Published by: Usborne, September 2022

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Perfect for 5-7's, Unipiggle is one of our favourite young fiction series and, as always, this new release, Fairy Freeze, is full to bursting with rainbow illustrations and loveable characters. But as Princess Pea and Unipiggle enjoy some festive fun in the frost and snow, there's a problem looming...

It's almost time for the Twinkleland Palace Snow Ball and Princess Pea is delighted when snow arrives in time for the celebration. But when the festive fairies fail to spread their usual sparkle and cheer across the kingdom, Princess Pea and Unipiggle race against time to find out what's wrong...

As you can gather from the front cover, this story features a host of very festive looking fairies. Yet, don't be fooled because inside, Christmas isn't mentioned and Santa doesn't feature. Instead, Hannah Shaw offers us a festive alternative in a magical realm that feels different but familiar. 

Like all the Unipiggle stories, this is a charming caper full of fun, humour, adventure...and chocolate. There's high stakes, lots of laughs, some icy incidents and plenty of snowballing. Amid all of that, however, little readers can unwrap an important message; a message about being overlooked, excluded and taken for granted. Can Princess Pea right the wrongs of the realm? You'll have to turn the pages to find out. 

Operation Nativity by Jenny Pearson

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Published by: Usborne, October 2022

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If you're looking for a more traditionally orientated story this Christmas then Operation Nativity could be the perfect choice. Featuring the ACTUAL Mary, Joseph, Angel Gabriel, Wise Man and Steve the Shepherd, it twists the origins of Christmas into a totally original and hilarious concept:

Oscar, Molly and their parents are spending Christmas in Chipping Bottom with their grandparents. Their grandmother is determined to include them in her dazzling nativity production but when they find a dazed Angel Gabriel wandering around in the back garden, they soon become embroiled in saving the original Christmas nativity. If they fail...then Christmas (and Oscar and Molly) will cease to exist. 

In this brand new Christmas classic, Jenny Pearson weaves together a riotous high concept caper with a moving story about family. Don't be fooled by the jolly, fun and chaotic opening because, without giving too much away, you'll be needing tissues by the end. Author of The Incredible Record Smashers and the upcoming Bertie and the Alien Chicken (to name a few), Jenny Pearson once again showcases her incredible skill at making readers howl with laughter before moving them to tears by pulling at the heartstrings in a gentle but poignant way. 

The story is full to bursting with a host of incredible characters. The Angel Gabriel is hilarious and watch out for both Grandma and Grandma the turkey. Molly provides lots of humour in her cute but annoying younger sibling role but it is the relationship between Oscar and Grandfather which I loved the most. Readers, young and old, will probably be able to relate to the ups and downs of having to spend Christmas with extended family and yet the importance of spending time with family and loved ones is the prevailing message. A great read for the whole family. 

Humbug: The Elf Who Saved Christmas by Steven Butler

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Published by: Scholastic, 13th October 2022

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If the nativity isn't for you and you'd prefer a story based around Santa and the elves in the North Pole, then Steven Butler has delivered just the book. In Humbug: The Elf Who Saved Christmas, it is the elves who are the star of the show, rather than the big man himself, but the action, adventure and brilliant world-building is perfect for fans of The Christmasaurus, Tinsel and The Boy Who Saved Christmas. 

The Humbug Family are not the sort of elves we see on Christmas cards, in films or in books. No, no, the Humbug family are in charge of the R.P.D department - that stands for Reindeer Poo Disposal - and are treated very poorly indeed. 

When a mince pie misunderstanding results in the Humbugs being exiled into the white, wintry wastelands, they embark on an adventure into the human world. But life 'down south' doesn't live up to the fantasy stories they've heard either, leaving the Humbugs to work out what Christmas truly means. 

Hugely funny with loveable characters, this book is full of bonkers antics which you might expect if you're familiar with Steven Butler's lower middle grade series, The Nothing To See Here Hotel. However, underneath all the raucous name-calling, caterwauling and comical capers, this original take on an elf story portrays a serious and heart-warming message. By creating a parallel between the magical world of the North Pole and the human world, Steven Butler allows readers to make the connection that the Humbugs are the keyworkers of the North Pole - overworked and not looked after. And yet, where would we be without them?

What I particularly loved about this novel is that it still gives us all the magic of the North Pole: letter deliveries, the bakehouse, flying reindeer (who need quite specific instructions) and elves but with cracks in it. The world isn't perfect, it's not sickly sweet but, in the right hands, it still has the potential to be everything we want it to be. The sentiment at the end is particularly moving and will hopefully allow readers to embrace imperfection, appreciate keyworkers and see the value in small acts of kindness. 

The Christmas Carrolls: The Christmas Competition

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Published by: HarperCollins, 13th October 2022

If you enjoyed our Christmas round-up last year, you'll know that it doesn't get much more Christmassy than The Christmas Carrolls and this year they're back with more fairy lights, tinsel and cards than ever because there is a Christmas competition to be won...

The Christmas Chronicle is on the hunt for the most festive family and have narrowed it down to just TWO families: The Carrolls and the Klauses. Mum and Dad are determined to check out and beat their rivals but Holly isn't so sure. Keen to spend time with her new friends, experience her first Halloween and help a miserable ice-skating penguin called Sue, she begins to wonder what's really important...

Perfect for families who start Christmas early and allow it to linger well into the New Year, this is fabulous in-your-face festive fun with a really clever plot. I loved the mix of frivolous and serious, the combination of Christmas and Halloween (Hallomas) and the double dose of animal cuteness as Reggie and Sue provide the laughs and the ahhs. 

As with most Christmas novels, there are important messages hidden under the humour. The Klauses, with their extravagent perfection, are the opposite of Christmas cheer and raise important questions about greed, generosity and goodwill. Coupled with their treatment of those who work for them, especially the penguins, I worked out very quickly which family I was rooting for. 

There's some nice touches in this second novel where we begin to see why Christmas is so important to the Carrolls. I also enjoyed Holly's story arc as she starts to move away from her parents' decisions (about how they live their life) in a bid to make her own. Will she continue to commit to Christmas 365 days of the year or will the festive fun make way for other things? 

BLOG TOUR: Mending The Moon by Emma Pearl and Sara Ugolotti

Welcome to our stop of the blog tour for Mending The Moon by Emma Pearl and Sara Ugolotti. Today we are celebrating the launch of this beautiful picture book with a special review and author interview. Mending The Moon is published by Page Street Kids and will be released in the US on November 1st and in the UK on December 5th. 

Mending the Moon by Emma Pearl and Sara Ugolotti publishes in the UK on December 5th. 

When the moon falls out of the sky and smashes to pieces, Luna is desperate to fix the situation. With the help of her Poppa and a whole host of forest animals, she searches high and low for every last piece. But how can a broken moon be put back together, let alone be placed back in the sky? And if she manages to achieve this mammoth task, will the moon still look perfect?

This picture book is visually stunning. Sara Ugolotti has captured the magical luminescence of the moon, making it the star of the show on every page. Mixed with beautiful forest scenery and a host of colourful animals, it truly is a feast for the eyes.

 

But, of course, without the story, there would be no pictures and from the moment you start reading aloud, you'll discover that Emma Pearl's storytelling language is as gorgeous as the illustrations. As she weaves the gentle tale of the moon falling out of the sky, readers will be sure to fall in love with Luna's determination to fix this enormous problem, which has very high stakes. 

There are a whole range of important takeaways from this story: the beauty and importance of nature, our need to nurture and protect it, working as a team, not giving up, exploring different methods to find a solution and the value of imperfection. I also love that there is a scientific element to the book, which touches on the crucial role the moon plays in the balance of our planet and which can be linked to the school curriculum. 

So, if you're looking for a gorgeous bedtime story to share with little ones, then I recommend giving Mending the Moon a try. It has a magical, folklore feel to it and plays on our fascination with the moon, encouraging empathy, curiosity and imagination. Look out for a sequel coming in 2023...

SCROLL DOWN TO READ AN INTERVIEW WITH AUTHOR, EMMA PEARL...

Hi Emma, congratulations on the publication of Mending the Moon, written by you, illustrated by Sara Ugolotti and published by Page Street Kids. It really is a beautiful story. Can you tell us a bit about yourself and where the idea for the story came from?

Hi Tracy, thank you for having me! I wrote the first draft of this story about five years ago. It started while I was rooting around in the dark recesses of my brain for some story ideas and came up with a silly question – what would happen if the moon fell out of the sky? From there came the story of Luna, who saw it happen and wanted to fix it.

 

Can you tell us about Mending the Moon’s journey to publication?

I was incredibly lucky to get picked up by Kayla Tostevin at Page Street Kids during a Twitter pitch event (#PBPitch) in October 2020. I had participated in the event a few times prior to that, and I really enjoyed the buzz and connecting with other writers that way. I never imagined anything would actually come from it! I submitted my manuscript to Kayla straight away and she responded quickly and positively. There were a few rounds of revision to get through before an offer was made. And it’s been a long wait from there to publication, but I’m so excited it’s finally here!

The illustrations by Sara Ugolotti are truly stunning. How did you feel when you saw them for the first time and how did it feel to finally hold a finished copy in your hands?

Oh my goodness, aren’t they incredible? I actually had a little input into the selection of an illustrator, so I knew the artwork would be wonderful, but seeing your characters brought to life for the first time is such a magical thing. When I received the first character sketches they took my breath away. Luna is just so perfect! And of course, there were a lot of stages between the first sketches and the final copy, but holding the finished book in my hands was the culmination of a lifelong dream. Such a special feeling.

 

Is the finished story similar to your first draft or has the story evolved over time?

I’ve just gone back to look at the first draft to see how much it evolved. And wow, yes – the answer is a lot! The first draft was over 1600 words long – full of a lot of unnecessary detail! By the time I submitted the manuscript to the publisher it was about 970 words and the final version is about 750. So, as always with picture books, reducing the word count was key to making the text really shine. My editor Kayla also really helped to bring out the ‘folklore’ element, focusing on the lasting effect of the story’s events on the moon.

 

What are you hoping young readers take from the story?

I’m hoping that readers of all ages will find in the story a sense of wonder and an appreciation for the magic and beauty of nature. And maybe the next level of meaning is to follow Luna’s example, to have compassion for all living things and to work in harmony with nature to fix it.

Your next picture book, Saving the Sun, is out in September 2023. Can you give us any sneaky information about what to expect? Will we meet the same characters again or is it a completely different story?

It’s another adventure for Luna and Poppa, but this time they are holidaying on a tropical island when the sun gets so hot, it decides to go for a dip in the ocean. Luna, Poppa, the sea creatures and island animals have to work together to literally save the day!

 

What do you love most about being a writer and what do you find challenging?

I’ve been a writer since I was big enough to hold a pencil and I would be a writer for the rest of my life even if I was never published. Writing is how I organise my thoughts and express my feelings. It’s like breathing. But actually becoming an author is a long and difficult path, and nearly all of it is challenging. I’m quite an impatient person – if I decide to do something, I want to get on and do it immediately. This is not a good trait to have in an industry that moves as fast as a glacier. Every single part of the process takes an inordinate amount of time (seriously - imagine the most far-fetched amount of time you can and multiply it by your birth year!). So I’ve had to learn to deal with that, which I mostly do by working on many different projects and keeping myself busy. I write across age groups from picture book to young adult, and I have more WIPs on the go than is probably sensible.

 

Do you have a top tip for young writers?

I have four top tips!

Read – as much as you can. Read, read, read!

Write – as much as you can. Don’t worry about writing anything perfect or even good, just write. The more you write, the more you’ll learn and the better you’ll become.

Learn – writing is about so much more than just putting pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard). There are many resources available online and if you’re serious about writing you’ll need to learn the basics of plot structure, character development, narrative arcs and other such delights.

And finally, reach out to authors whose work you enjoy. Most writers have a contact form on their website and we love to hear from readers, especially if they’re budding writers too. You’ll be surprised at how friendly and helpful most writers are. You never know what nuggets (or should I say pearls?) of wisdom you might receive!

 

Thanks so much for talking to us, Emma and good luck with the launch.

Thank you so much!

 Mending The Moon is available in the US now and available to pre-order in the UK:

Waterstones

Bookshop.org UK

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Bookshop.org US

Indiebound

Amazon US

Hoglets' Birthday Surprise by Lynette Cresswell

If you're looking for an animal story full of charm, then look no further than Hoglets' Birthday Surprise by Lynette Cresswell. Out on October 26th 2022 it follows on from the publication of Hoglets' Christmas Magic which was published in August. 

When Primrose and Prickles head out for a walk in the woods, they stumble across a house made of goodies. In true fairy tale syle, the house belongs to a witch - not a wicked witch who eats children but a sad witch who has no friends. Can the two hoglets find a way to make Willow the witch feel special?

Packed with engaging, full-colour illustrations, this gorgeous story of Prickles and Primrose embraces a range of woodland animals and gives a lovely nod to the traditional fairy tale of Hansel and Gretel, whilst subverting the classic role of a wicked witch. Exploring the important topics of friendship, it encourages readers not to judge others on first impressions. It's the perfect short story for families to share together, particularly on a birthday, and is enjoyable for all ages. 

A big thanks to Lynette Cresswell for sending me a review copy. Prickles and Primrose are adorable. 

New Releases: Fancy some cracking wintry tales? Why not try these two middle-grade beauties...

The Miraculous Sweetmakers: The Frost Fair by Natasha Hastings, illustrated by Alex T. Smith

Link to publisher
 

Published: HarperCollins, 27th October 2022

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Perfect for fans of The Whisperling by Hayley Hoskins, this epic, wintry tale crackles with magic and wonder. As debut author, Natasha Hastings, takes us back to The Great Frost of 1683, when the River Thames froze over, her spellbinding storytelling will grip you as tightly as the wintery weather grips London - with the difference being that you may not want it to let go...

Thomasina's world is one filled with grief. Following the death of her twin brother, she helps to run her father's sweet shop and cares for her grief-stricken mother. But when she meets a mysterious conjuror, who introduces her to a magical frost fair and promises to grant her deepest wish, Thomasina's life takes on a new purpose. 

But it appears that the sinister Father Winter is watching her and as a magical mystery unfolds around her, Thomasina and her friends race to solve it before she pays the highest price. 

This is a magical story set in an historical world and one which captivated me right from the beginning. The opening chapter is instantly hard-hitting and grabs your attention with the force of a sledge-hammer. Character emotions are raw and play an integral role throughout the entire story, drawing us in and making us invest in the characters. The wintry setting is as cruel as it is enchanting and the plot gathers pace like a sledge flying downhill. 

Thomasina is a broken character, burdened by guilt and loneliness and vulnerable to temptation. I particularly loved her burgeoning relationship with Anne and the love she has for her mother. Without giving away too many spoilers, however, the novel is packed with other great characters too- watch out for the elderly neighbour, the frost bear and the unnerving conjuror, whose agenda will keep you guessing until the end. The theme of grief is prominent all the way through the narrative, woven alongside the exploration of the treatment of women and the 'madness' of women, the pursuit of youth and poverty. For me, there were real echoes of Midnight in Everwood by M.A Kuzniar - an adult novel I read last year that is based on 'The Nutcracker' - which I think is down to the sinister villain, Father Winter. 

If that isn't enough to sink your teeth into, a cracking mystery sits at the heart of this novel, made all the more urgent by the ticking of a clock. Then there are the sensory descriptions of Thomasina's sweetmaking and Anne's apothecary. I loved the strong ending for these two female characters and I have to admit to shedding more than a tear or two. This is truly special and enthralling read and it will be interesting to see how it will be made into a series. 

Murder at Snowfall by Fleur Hitchcock

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Published by: Nosy Crow, 3rd November 2022

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It's always great to curl up with a gripping mystery at this time of year and this one has murder at the centre. Set in the present day, this fast-paced novel features two secondary school detectives: Ruby and her new step-brother, Lucas. 

When the step-siblings find an abandoned trunk in the snow, Lucas jokes there might be a body in it and dares Ruby to open it. But the pair might soon regret their game as they are drawn into a deadly game of cat and mouse...or human and lion. 

This is, rather unbelievably, the first Fleur Hitchcock novel I've read and I found it highly enjoyable. Part of a series of standalone murder mysteries, this one, to me, has a stand-out USP due to the awkward family dynamics between Ruby and Lucas and the unusual and highly engaging setting of a safari park. 

The plot was ultra-exciting but quite menacing for the age-group with a ruthless villain clearly willing to stop at nothing to cover up their secrets. I liked the way Ruby and Lucas made for sharp, instinctive but rather amateur sleuths, making mistakes that will have the reader shouting at the page but which enhances their relatability and likeability in the process. There are enough clues for the reader to stay one step ahead of the detectives but not necessarily guess the whole story and the ending is an edge-of-your-seat climax. Perfect for middle-grade readers who want a pacy, edge of your seat mystery set amid the familiarity of family and school, just remind them to...trust no one!

A big thanks to NetGalley, HarperCollins and Nosy Crow for providing me with a review copy of both novels, which are now available to pre-order. 

It's our Spooky Halloween Round-Up 2022...

 Leila The Perfect Witch by Flavia Z. Drago

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Published by: Walker Books, September 2022

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Last year, Flavia Z. Drago brought us Gustavo The Shy Ghost where, throughout the illustrations, a little witch kept appearing. Well, now the witch is back in her very own story, Leila The Perfect Witch.

Leila is good at everything. But when she enters the 'Magnificent Witchy Cake-Off' for the first time, her success becomes unstuck. Worried about letting down her family, who boast a long line of master bakers, Leila practises and practises in the hope of achieving perfection. But, even with the help of her sisters, can she claim first prize?

Leila is an adorable and determined main character who will delight readers right from the front cover. Her witchy baking is perfect for young readers who love having fun in the kitchen around Halloween, or for those who just want to snuggle up with a fun, feel-good story. If they're not even in the mood for that then maybe they'd just enjoy spending time looking at Flavia Z. Drago's stunning artwork, which has so much detail, they'll be noticing new things for hours. By the way, has anyone seen a gingerbread person wearing an eye-patch?

The theme of not feeling good at something will no doubt feel relatable to little ones. However, this story has a hugely positive message of determination, perseverance and sibling support rather than rivalry. Mix in a final twist and you have a recipe for a surprising but satisfying ending that strengthens the takeaway message even further...but I'm not going to spoil it. All that's left to say is that if you're ever going to judge a book by its cover, then this story is genuinely as gorgeous on the inside as it is on the outside. 

No Home for a Ghost by Jess Rose

Link to Waterstones

Published by: Owlet Press, 4th October 2022

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No Home For A Ghost is a gorgeously sweet picture book with a heart-warming message that is perfect for all the family this Halloween. With a strong focus on kindness, inclusion and belonging, it encourages readers to think about their decisions and not be too hasty to make judgements. 

Dylan's family are shocked to discover their new home comes complete with a ghost. But while everyone else in the family wants to evict it, pronto, Dylan thinks differently. When his family get their way and the ghost is ousted, can Dylan make them see the error of their ways?

This is a gentle story that will tug strongly on the heartstrings. Turfed out onto the street, what will become of the ghost if Dylan doesn't intervene? Ironically, however, it seems that Dylan's family are losing out as much as the ghost is. What would life be like if they opened their eyes and gave their spooky resident a chance?

Creeping Beauty by Joseph Coelho and Freya Hartas

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Published by: Walker Books, September 2022

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Truely edging on the grotesque, Creeping Beauty - the third in the Fairy Tales Gone Bad series - is for strong-stomached young readers who don't mind their fairy tales being curdled with fear...

Eshe and her sisters are Fairy Godmothers but Eshe has a different kind of gift to her siblings - she can see into the future. Ridiculed for being useless, Eshe becomes alienated from her family. But when she glimpses a terrifying future for one young girl, which will change the world as they know it, Eshe becomes determined to change her destiny. 

Written by Children's Laureate, Joseph Coelho and illustrated by Freya Hartas, this short but gorgeously presented verse novel is deliciously dark, gruesomely grisly and terrifically thought-provoking. Not only does it deliver a brilliantly entertaining story that will make your toe nails curl, it also challenges fairy tale tropes, explores what makes 'baddies' bad and encourages readers to care about the world around them and the future in front of them. 

The verse is rich in language and imagery with some challenging vocabulary. However, the length and amount of white space on the page balances this out, making it accessible for younger readers (6/7+) and gorgeous to read aloud. It is definitely aimed at readers who like the gorier angle of Halloween and I'd err caution with more sensitive readers, especially before bedtime. However, this has been a brilliant series (the physical copies are stunning) and I'm extremely sad to see it come to an end so soon. 

Anisha, Accidental Detective by Serena Patel, illustrated by Emma McCann

Link to publisher

Published by: Usborne, September 2022

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I've loved the Anisha, Accidental Detective series from the start but the sixth book in the series (will it really be the last?) has got to be my favourite. Packed full of delicious Halloween spookiness,  Fright Night is a creepy, funny but still full of the family fun we have come to expect from the Mistrys.

A school Halloween disco isn't Anisha's idea of fun. But when strange and spooky occurrences start happening around the school site and the governors threaten to cancel the event, Anisha realises it means more to her than she first thought. Convinced there is a more logical explanation than a school ghost, Anisha starts investigating. Who would want to ruin a Halloween disco? And how have they managed to fool the whole school?

With brilliant illustrations from Emma McCann all the way through, this is a treat of a read for Halloween. Serena Patel is brilliant at writing Anisha's family dramas with both relatability and humour - watch out for the salsa scene - and yet it has been great to see the family dynamics evolve and develop throughout the six books, making them all slightly different. 

Aimed at the lower end of middle grade,  Fright Night is perfect for Halloween fans who prefer fun rather than fear. There's certainly plenty of spooky action with skeletons, flying books and slime galore but it's all wrapped up in the warm safety of Anisha's world. The well-plotted mystery keeps you guessing and there's also a handful of sub-plots which, not only bring even more drama and tension to the text, but also a heart-warming take-away message centred around family and friendship. If you haven't yet read of the other five Anisha books, I can highly recommend all of them. 

Malice in Wonderland and A Trick Of Time by Jenni Jennings, illustrated by Hannah Peck

Link to publisher

👍👍👍👍👍

Published by: Scholastic, September 2020 & 2021

Last year, I picked up Malice In Underland by Jenni Jennings in a bookshop and LOVED it. A year later, I've also just gobbled down the sequel, A Trick in Time and have the third instalment, Ghost Games, on the way. These short but very unsweet mystery stories - prepare for hilarious gruesomeness - are packed full of cleverly plotted mysteries, fantastic world-building and laugh-out-loud characters. Think Addams Family x Sherlock Holmes.

Malice is not like her Topunder family. Living in Topside, they spend their lives creating mischievous mayhem. But Malice - different as she is - prefers doing good and solving mysteries.

A Trick of Time - Malice's dastardly uncle, Maniacal Malign, has stolen back his long-hidden, time-stopping pocket watch and is now wrecking havoc in both Topside and Underland. But it's not long before Malice discovers that Maniacal has a far more serious plan than just causing chaos - a plan to get REVENGE. And it's up to Malice, Uncle Vex and Seth to stop him...TICK TOCK, TICK, TOCK. 

Energetic and entertaining, these incredibly fast-paced novels burst off the page. The clever play on Alice in Wonderland is a great way to draw readers in, but don't expect too many similarities because this series is sparky and original in its own right. Perfect for Halloween, with a dark, gothic feel, the brilliantly-formed characters are stand-out with everyone bringing either humour or creepiness to the plot. There's puzzles, cryptic messages, LOTS of quirky action and bags of yuckiness too.

Malice is a great character - a focussed, determined girl who loves her family but isn't scared to be different. I particularly love how she earns her family's respect for staying true to herself, despite the fact they don't understand her, and she never shies away from tricky situations or characters. Life in Underland is certainly never dull and you'll have a whale of a time if you decide to give these books a go. 

And watch out for...

The Vanishing of Aveline Jones by Phil Hickes

Link to publisher

Published by: Usborne, 27th October 2022

Unfortunately, The Vanishing of Aveline Jones isn't due to be published until 27th October. However, if the previous two in the series are anything to go by, it will be well worth a read. Spine-tingling and spooky, these short but very scary novels have a wonderfully classic feel to them. Why not check out our reviews for:

The Haunting of Aveline Jones

and 

The Bewitching of Aveline Jones

It's the new instalment of Pages and Co: The Treehouse Library by Anna James

 

Link to publisher

Published by: HarperCollins, September 2022

👍👍👍👍👍

Hooray! The fifth instalment of the bookwandering series, Pages & Co, has arrived and this beautiful hardback edition jumped straight to the top of my 'to be read' pile. After being late to the series- the first three books having being published before I even heard of it - these stories have lodged themselves as firmly into my heart as The Faraway Tree series did when I was a child. 

Now in charge of the Quip, Milo and his new travelling companion, Alessia, seek out The Botanist, in the hope they can find the cure to awaken Milo's uncle, Horatio, from his cursed sleep. But when they arrive at the Treehouse Library, it becomes clear that finding the ingredients for the cure will be more challenging than they thought. It's not long before they are bookwandering into famous lands and meeting well-known characters. But, with The Alchemist growing impatient,they may have to abandon their quest to help Tilly and her family back at Pages & Co.

Aside from the fact that Anna James' incredible imagination takes us on an epic fantasy adventure into the world of story, there is something extra-special about this concept that I can't quite put my finger on. Is it that it's set in a bookshop full of cosy nooks and hot chocolates or is it the nostalgia of being able to literally walk into some favourite childhood classics? It's almost definitely both, although the characters themselves create an extraordinary warmth and the same fuzzy feeling I felt reading characters of the past. 

What's brilliant for young readers is that, although they themselves might not be familiar with the classic stories that are featured in Pages & Co, they are introduced to them in such a fresh and appealing way that it's almost impossible not to become interested, even excited, about them. In book two, there's a gorgeous nod to fairytales and, without giving away too many spoilers, book five features a famous vagabond thief, a Yorkshire secret and a well-known wizard. It promotes a love of reading and the pure joy of books - I mean who wouldn't want to wander into a book full of their favourite characters and adventures. 

Despite allowing us to spend time with stories of the past, however, the lengths that Anna James has gone to in order to create an original story in its own right is incredible. My initial delight at finding a series that would involve characters wandering into other famous stories and having adventures was soon turned on its head when it became obvious that there was going to be far more to the series than that. With a botanist, an alchemist, a train that runs on imagination, secretive relatives, curses, ultimatums and library treehouses, this plot just keeps on giving, taking us onto a journey into the very depths of story and evoking all the feelings I felt as a child reader. I just can't wait for the next instalment...

If you'd like to know more, why not check out our reviews of other books in the series:

UPCOMING RELEASE FOR 2023: Libby and the Highland Heist by Jo Clarke

 Link to publisher

Published by: Firefly Press, 19th January 2023

High concept and full of charm, the second book in Jo Clarke's fun detective series is lying in wait to greet us in January 2023. After thoroughly enjoying Libby and the Parisian Puzzle in March, I pounced on the opportunity for a sneak peek faster than if it was a piece of Scottish shortbread and I loved it in equal measure. After all, who could resist the chicness of a travelling school, mixed with a well-plotted mystery? 

Following their adventure in Paris, Libby and her best friend Connie are looking forward to a quiet Christmas at Connie's Scottish home. But when they arrive, the subdued and rather tense atmosphere soon has the girls alarmed. Just what secrets lie within Connie's historical home and what are her parents hiding? One thing's for sure, Libby is determined to get to the bottom of it and, with her aunt's travelling school setting up home in Edinburgh, it's not long before help in on hand to solve the mystery...

What I particularly love about this series is that it cleverly mixes the contemporary with the traditional. Although, the concept of a travelling school feels fresh and unique, there is a definite nod to the mysteries I read as a child: old buildings, secret passages, austere relations and elusive but dangerous villains. Don't be fooled by the light-hearted, fun feel created by Becka Moor's delightful illustrations and Jo Clarke's effortless writing - there is a real edge of danger to this novel as Libby finds out when she takes a tumble. This, for me, really raised the stakes and made me turn the pages even faster. 

The theme of food in the novel also harks back to books of my childhood. If you're keen to read descriptions of the food Libby and her friends enjoy in each city they visit, then this could be the series for you. Equally, it's clear that Jo Clarke has chosen to take her travelling school to places she knows well, with each story detailing the geography and popular locations in the area. This all adds to the depth and sensory descriptions in the novel, making it an extra satisfying read. 

The novel is incredibly well-plotted. I liked the return of a familiar face and I was kept guessing to the end. I particularly like that Libby doesn't solve every part of the mystery, making her character feel more real and relatable, and the dynamic between Libby and Connie works incredibly well. The series is the perfect side step for fans of the Anisha, Accidental Detective series, the Agent Zaiba Investigates series and is a stepping stone for mystery lovers who are just developing in confidence as readers. It has firm foundations in family, friendships and school, making it adventurous yet cosy and comforting.

A big thanks to NetGalley and Firefly Press for allowing me to read a review copy. Libby and the Highland Heist is available to pre-order.