Andy Shepherd’s The Boy Who Grew Dragons series has a charm and warmth that endeared it to many. School librarians happily recommended the books to both teachers and parents and the stories rapidly became regularly shared in lower KS2 classrooms. When her brand new series was announced last year some may have wondered if these new stories could match the popularity of her first books. They need not have worried. The Wood Where Magic Grows, this time illustrated by Ellie Snowdon, is a splendid start to this new series with kindness, bravery and understanding conveyed in abundance and with a little dash of magic too.

Iggy is having to adapt to big changes in his life. He and his mum have moved into a new home joining her new partner, Mitchell, and his young son, Cal. Iggy is feeling a little overwhelmed by his newly acquired ‘big brother’ status and the feeling of responsibility. However the two boys are beginning to form a bond and together they discover an overgrown wood, Wildtop Wood, at the bottom of their garden. A whole new world opens up for them there as they meet Sadie who cares for the trees and animals there and also their new neighbour, Mae. The three children soon learn that there is more to this natural place than they anticipated. A world of green magic, wooden animals scampering through the trees and a secret treetop walkway are just part of their adventure. The surprises continue and Iggy discovers that he can be brave when it is really needed.

There is a thread of positivity running through this enjoyable adventure. Beginning with Iggy’s patient acceptance of his new role and developing further in the two boys deepening bond. Combining with the depiction of the blossoming friendship with Mae there is a kind acceptance of difference and stopping to listen and to learn in this kind story. Mae wears hearing aids and Iggy responds by using some of the British Sign Language he has learned at school. Iggy himself has a birthmark on his face which both Cal and Mae disregard and never ask insensitive questions about. Andy Shepherd ensures that this representation is truly inclusive and is simply one facet of the characters rather than being an ‘issue’.

There is a gently conveyed message about nurturing our natural environment and devoting proper time and attention to appreciating it and learning about it too. The Wood Where Magic Grows is just right for its target audience and the illustrations also increase its appeal. There is humour in the pictures and I particularly liked young Cal in his tiger onesie looking reminiscent of Max in Where the Wild Things Are. Andy Shepherd uses her gentle adventure to encourage children to be curious, to use their imaginations, and to appreciate the magic all around in nature. The magic and adventure is given added depth with the thoughtful representation of both blended families and its inclusive approach to differences and disabilities. The World Where Magic Grows will, I think, appeal to a similar audience as its predecessor and is perfectly pitched for its target audience of 7+. Published in paperback in July by Piccadilly Press, there will also be hardback editions available in June.

Andy Shepherd has a wonderful website full of information and entertaining stuff for children. The range of resources she has thoughtfully created for her Teacher Activity Pack linked to The World Where Magic Grows is packed full of writing prompts, art and craft ideas and curriculum friendly activities. You can download the pack here.

I should like to thank Andy Shepherd, the publishers and Pippa Poole for providing my proof copy.