New chapter book releases from Julie Sykes: Woodland Magic and Princess Katie's Kittens

Julie Sykes is one of our favourite chapter book writers, penning exciting series such as Unicorn Academy and Mermaid Academy. After previously reviewing her newer series, Woodland Magic and the re-release of Princess Katie's Kittens, we jumped at the chance to review the latest releases courtesy of NetGalley.

Woodland Magic: Operation Owl

Published by: Piccadilly Press, 17th August 2023                           👍👍👍👍👍                                                                                                                                                                                            With autumn hovering on the horizon and the summer weather turning wet, book four in the Woodland Magic series felt like a great big woolly jumper hug. With tons of educational content regarding nature, wildlife and the environment, this charming story is probably the most heart-thumping and action-packed yet.                                                                                                                                                Cora and Jax are now fully-fledged Keepers but when they find an owl tangled up in wire, their skills and wits are put firmly to the test. To predatory owls, Keepers would make a scrummy meal. Can Cora and Jax try and find a way to help the creature without becoming dinner?                                                                                                                                                                                                                Each book in this series follows a cosy, familiar and comforting format and yet every story feels fresh. As Cora, Jax and their friends Trix and Nis grow in experience, the scenarios they encounter become more thrilling and dramatic. The owl is the first animal the Keepers help who is a direct predator. And, with the presence of Ruffins always lurking in the background, the stakes are high!

Aside from the drama, the world-building and setting is charm personified. There's gorgeous, tummy-rumbling descriptions of food and lots of lovely craft and community activities for the Keepers to become involved with. The theme of teamwork is strong and we particularly loved the emphasis in this book that everyone has different skills to offer. As a result, the characters all feel unique and there's a lovely subplot in Operation Owl where Cora attempts to understand her the motivations of her nemesis more. 

Once again, this is perfect for young eco-warriors, nature-lovers and those who love fairy-type stories. The books are perfectly-formed packages with so much to offer. We absolutely love them!

Princess Katie's Kittens: Bella at the Ball

Published by: Templar Publishing, July 2023

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The second book in this re-released series focuses on Bella, one of the five kittens that Princess Katie found in book one. With each book centring around a different kitten, Julie Skyes has created a great opportunity to show off the kittens different personalities...

Bella is up to mischief. Fed up of being stuck in the boot room with her brothers and sisters, she escapes and explores the palace. But everyone is busy preparing for a super important ball and it's not long before Bella's antics threaten to ruin the whole event. Can Katie catch the kitten before disaster strikes and how will she keep Bella entertained?

Unusually for a chapter book, the story flits between both Katie and Bella's viewpoints. This is a clever twist which definitely adds to its fun factor and which makes it the perfect read for cat-lovers and for those who are fans of princess stories. Katie is quite a traditional princess, expected to dress prettily and perform for her parents, but it is her love of the kittens which gives her an unique edge and the story a clear USP. The plot is light-hearted and pacey and offers pure joy and escapism for readers. We're excited to find out which kitten will be the start of the next book.

A big thanks to NetGalley, Piccadilly Press and Templar for allowing us review copies. Both books are now available to order or pre-order. 

 

Young Fiction is on a roll...

 WOW! Young fiction - my favourite age-group to read - is really on a roll at the moment. With the launch of another fabulous new series, a re-launch of an old series and another spin-off of the immensely popular Isadora Moon, there is plenty for the 5+ age-group to enjoy. 

Princess Katie's Kittens by Julie Sykes, Illustrated by Sam Loman

Link to Waterstones

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Published by: Templar, 30th March 2023

Originally published in 2012, this new edition of Princess Katie's Kittens: Pixie at the Palace is as cute as cute can be. Told in a dual narrative which tells the story from both Katie and Pixie's perspective, it is perfect for cat-lovers and readers who have enjoyed Unipiggle and other princess stories. 

When Katie finds a box of abandoned kittens in the woods, she is determined to help them by raising them at the palace. But when Pixie goes missing, can she find the weak kitty in time to save him? And will her mum and dad allow her to keep them?

This is a gentle but engaging story which uses the dual narrative to create tension and high stakes. Katie's kind nature and love for the kittens is balanced with Pixie's curiosity and determination to help his sisters, unaware of the danger he is in. Katie, perhaps, is a slightly stereotypical princess but knows her own mind and is set on doing the right thing, allowing readers to explore themes of caring for animals, friendship and finding compromises. With each story in the series focussing on a different kitten, there is definitely lots of fun to come. 

Honey's Hive by Mo O'Hara and Aya Kakeda

Link to Coles bookshop

Published by: Anderson Press, 6th April 2023

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This new series, penned by Agent Moose author, Mo O'Hara and illustrated by Aya Kakeda is a busy, buzzy and brilliant read which left us wondering why a young fiction series about bees has not been done before. With action, humour and a cast of loveable, whizzy characters, it's definitely going to be a firm favourite in our household. 

Honey is in a sticky situation. It's time for her to work out which job she's most suited to within her hive...except Honey doesn't want a boring job, she wants adventure. 

But when the hive falls under attack, Honey and her friends have to flee with their Queen. With the Queen unable to travel far, can Honey find them all a new home...and fast?

This is a super clever concept which combines highly engaging fiction with fascinating factual information. Not only is Honey a fun and relatable character as she tries to find her place in the hive and be true to herself, but readers will learn lots about the hierachy of the hive, why bees swarm and the waggle dance. 

Although the story is relatively short, there's plenty of action packed into the pages. From rides in lifts to nasty encounters with wasps to a very funny, food-orientated fly, it's the story itself that will ultimately fly off the bookshelves. With strong eco-themes, educational learning and emphasis on teamwork and friendship, this book is buzzing with reasons to get stuck in. 

Emerald and the Ocean Parade by Harriet Muncaster

 Link to publisher

Published by: Oxford University Press, 2nd March 2023

With Isadora Moon and Mirabelle remaining hugely popular, prepare to meet a new character living in the same world as Isadora. Emerald and the Ocean Parade takes us under the waves to meet a young mermaid (whose sister once had an encounter with Isadora herself) who is getting used to being part of the royal family...

The Ocean Parade is approaching and Emerald is worried that things are going to be very different this year. Instead of hanging out with her friends and enjoying the stalls, Emerald is now part of the royal family and expected to join in the royal parade. But with lots of rules and expectations, can Emerald find a way to fit in and be herself at the same time?

Although this is a brilliant fantasy set-up with wonderful two-tone illustrations and a fun cast of sea-characters, what is particularly clever about this series is that it is full of relevant themes for young readers. Emerald's parents are separated and the plot focusses on the challenges she faces settling into her new blended family, who just happens to be royal. Exploring the need for understanding and compromise, Harriet Muncaster writes with sensitivity and positivity, acknowledging that while such change can be very tricky to manage, it can also bring with it new and exciting things too. 

Setting these themes underneath the umbrella of an ocean parade brings fun, celebration and action to the story as well. From choosing a headdress, to riding in a dolphin-pulled carriage, Harriet Muncaster immerses us in a totally captivating world that I'm sure we'd all like to be part of. Perfect for the 5+ age-group, it's a fabulous addition to the Isadora Moon series. 

UPCOMING RELEASE! Bronte Tempestra and the Lightning Steeds

What with our Halloween round-up and some fantastic new middle-grade releases taking up all our attention, it's been hard to fit anything else into our reading slots. But we can never resist a chapter book and, along with the return of some of our favourites, there is something new to get excited about in 2024. YA author, Bex Hogan, has a debut CB series launching on the 1st February and it's definitely one to watch out for...

Bronte Tempestra and the Lightning Steeds by Bex Hogan, illustrated by Hannah McCaffery

Link to author website

Published by: Piccadilly Press, 1st February 2024

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Packed full of pacy action, the first in this new series sees Bronte Tempestra follow her dreams of being a knight. But what does being a knight entail exactly..?

Bronte, Princess of the Storm Kingdom, knows what she wants...to be the first princess to ever train to become a knight. But when she heads off to knight school, she is surprised to find that the knights are more interested in bravado than being brave. Is saving and protecting kingdoms really second to showing off? 

But when Bronte finds out that the Lightning Steeds from her kingdom have gone missing, leaving the thunder trolls to cause havoc in their absence, Bronte takes matters into her own hands and sets off on a quest to find the root of all the strange happenings in the realm. 

This is a great concept which places a strong, female character centre stage. We loved how Bronte knows exactly who she wants to be and how much she cares about her kingdom. With bags of agency and a fighting spirit, you just know that this is a girl set for lots of adventures and that we, as readers, are definitely going to enjoy riding along with her. 

The world-building is brilliantly done with a cleverly constructed setting (again paving the way for lots of future adventures) and a cast of fun and creative characters. We loved the pompous griffin lord and the fire cats and we also loved the plot twist which centred around Bronte's own cat. There's a real sense of tension and imminent threat running right from the start and this escalates into a villain-busting climax which will leave readers as breathless as if they were the knights on a mission. 

There's so much to love about this new story and we can't wait to explore more of the world. We're particularly keen to meet the thunder trolls and find out what kind of peril Bronte will be facing next. You can bet it's not going to be anything like we expect... 

Highly recommended for 6-8 year olds and fans of Hotel of the Gods and The Naughtiest Unicorn.

Call the Puffins: Tiny's Brave Rescue by Cath Howe, illustrated by Ella Okstad

Published by: Welbeck Children's Group, Hachette, 12th October 2023

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This second book in the series is as charming as the first and places Tiny, not Muffin, as the main character in this adventure. Perfect for 5-7s, this is a gentle story with gorgeous characters and strong eco themes. 

Tiny, Muffin and the other puffins on the Island of Egg are on to the next stage of their training. But Tiny is still worried he's not up for the job, especially as his sight is limited. When a wild cat turns up on the beach during an important rescue, Tiny is convinced he's messed up. Will he pass this level of training and be able to stay one of the team?

This series is just a pure delight and perfect for fans of Adventuremice. The setting is simple and easy to visualise and the characters are amongst the sweetest you'll ever meet. We particularly love the representation of different disabilities amongst the puffins; from limited vision to feet that are different to everyone else's. The plot is pitched perfectly for the age-group but still has surprisingly high stakes - this is nature and nature's emergencies are serious. Saying that, there's still a lot of fun and friendship to be had and the power of teamwork is forefront! We love it!

Suki in the Snow (Princess Katie's Kittens) by Julie Sykes, illustrated by Sam Loman

Published by: Piccadilly Press, 12th October 2023
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With winter on the way, the third instalment of Princess Katie's Kittens feels particularly seasonal. If you're a big fan of the white stuff, then Suki in the Snow is a must-read; a gorgeous story with a holiday setting told from both Katie and Suki's perspective...

Katie is off on her annual holiday to the mountains but is sad to leave the kittens. But when Suki sneaks into her backpack, Katie finds her winter break is rather more stressful than usual. Suki sneaks out into the snow and it's not long before she is lost. Can Katie find her before frostbite sets in as well as keeping her family and friends happy?

With strong themes of pet care, this is a gorgeous series for young animal lovers or those who love a princess story. Katie and Becky are caring characters who mix having fun with responsibility. Suki being lost in the snow creates naturally high stakes but also whisks readers away to a magical snowy landscape full of festival fun, ice-skating, igloos and all the best things about winter. This change of setting was refreshing and all the stories offer a very different adventure. Allowing readers to see things from Suki's point of view as well as Katie's is a genius move and adds a whole special USP to the series. We can't wait to see what the next kitten will get up to.

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.

What's new in chapter books and graphic novels?

My son is now deep in the realm of searching for books he wants to read independently and chapter books and graphic novels are always a great option for him because they are short, accessible and very often funny. Although we have read together since he was tiny and he's enjoyed a wide range of picture books, chapter books and middle grade novels, building up his own reading has been more of a challenge. Reading for pleasure and enjoyment is, for us as a family, the most important thing and so we're starting this round-up with something he loved:

Pablo and Splash by Sheena Dempsey

Link to publisher

Published by: Bloomsbury, 18th January 2024

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Graphic novels are a great way of engaging reluctant readers and, after barely reading any graphic novels in my forty-something years, I have discovered a real love for them too! All of the ones we have read so far, including DogMan, Agent Moose, Bumble and Snug and Pea, Bee and Jay have been incredibly clever and hugely funny and this was no exception:

Pablo and Splash are the best of friends and totally different. Pablo likes his life in the Antarctic but Splash wants change and adventure! Fed up of the freezing weather, Splash persuades Pablo to go on holiday with him. But a series of unexpected events leads them on a time-travelling escapade to the dinosaur age instead. Was life in the Antarctic really that bad?

This is the first in a series of adventures for Pablo and Splash and we found them to be instantly loveable. If you're after a laugh-out-loud adventure that's fun and very silly then you've found the perfect pair of penguins. The illustrations are fab, the plot is twisty and turny and the humour is spot on for younger readers, whilst also appealing to anyone who fancies a giggle. Graphic novels really are the dream combination of words and pictures - exciting, unintimidating and totally page-turning.

The Dog Squad by Clara Vulliamy

Published by: HarperCollins, 18th January 2024

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Perfect for dog lovers, this is the second in a really lovely series about dogs and journalism. It may seem like an odd combination but it really works! Penned by Clara Vulliamy, author of the Dotty Detective and Marshmallow Pie books, it's a simple but gentle story with a great twist. 

When Eva and her friends take Wafer to a whippet racing competition, Eva is super proud of her pet. But something is amiss - some underhand cheating is going on and Eva smells a new story...

We really loved the characters in this series. Wafer, of course, is star of the show but Eva and her friends have a lovely dynamic. The author creates an ominous sense of peril with some grumpier characters and there is also an element of mystery which Eva must uncover if she wants to write her story. This is great for anyone who prefers 'real-world' stories. Eva's love for her pet, Wafer, is really relatable and the books fit really well into the pet genre that is really popular with chapter book readers, whilst also offering a new and specific angle. 

The Magician Next Door by Rachel Chivers Khoo, illustrated by Alice McKinley

Link to publisher

Published by: Walker Books, 7th March 2024

If you're looking for something more fantastical, then this is the book for you. As with Rachel Chivers Khoo's first chapter book, The Wishkeeper's Apprentice, this has the magical and traditional feel of the stories I used to read as a child. With a magician and giants and spells going wrong, it is packed full of imagination, joy and delight. 

Ten year old Callie is struggling to settle into her new life in the mountains after living a life in London. But when a magical house crashes into her garden, Callie is pulled into an urgent mission. 

Winnifred, the owner of the house, has lost her precious Wanderdust and if Callie can't help her find it, then her house is in terrible danger. But soon Callie learns that she might be the reason for the Wanderdust going missing in the first place.

This story deals with big and relatable issues, such as grief, moving house and old and new friendships. And yet Rachel Chivers Khoo wraps these themes up in a captivating and immersive story that crackles with magic. The result is a rollercoaster ride of imagination, adventure, peril and emotion. There are high stakes and urgent missions at the same time as Callie is coming to terms with her past, present and future. However, none of it felt too heavy because there's a great balance of light and dark, humour and sadness mixed with a huge dose of imagination. 

There's a fabulous nod to folklore and famous stories too - giants, houses falling out of the sky, woodland and pixies all remind me of those old classics. And yet there's something incredible fresh and contemporary about the story too as well as a dynamic and exciting energy. 

Princess Katie's Kittens: Ruby and the Royal Baby by Julie Sykes, illustrated by Sam Loman

Published by: Piccadilly Press, May 9th 2024

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The fifth book in this series is just as delightful as the others and this time it is Ruby's turn to have an adventure. The last of the five kittens finds herself getting into trouble as she explores the wider world around her...

The Queen is having a baby! Katie is over the moon that she is going to be a big sister again and she and her friend, Becky, launch themselves into preparing for the new arrival. 

But it's not long before Ruby the kitten interrupts their plans by unintentionally causing mischief and mayhem. The Queen isn't happy either... Will Ruby be allowed to stay? And can Katie fix everything before the baby is born?

Told in a dual perspective which cleverly switches between Katie and Ruby, these stories are perfect for encouraging independent reading. The chapters are short, the illustrations are delightful and there are strong themes of family, friendship and how to care for animals.  We really liked how some factual information is always woven into the text and, in this story there's a gentle warning about introducing cats to babies.

The 'princess' aspect of the series is also very appealing and adds another layer of specialness to the concept. Despite this, however, Katie and her family still feel very relatable to readers.

A big thanks to NetGalley and all the above publishers for allowing us review copies of these new and upcoming chapter books. All these books are avaiable to purchase or pre-order.