Children’s Books: A Summer Reading Round Up

Posted on August 29, 2023 by alibrarylady

In the absence of my weekly Reading Matters news letter I decided to take the opportunity to tackle my mountains of books that I had not had time to read. Did I succeed? Well, almost! There are still many wonderful books waiting to be read but I have read some special ones over the last few weeks so I thought I’d recommend just some that you may have missed.

Lulu’s Nana Visits by Anna McQuinn and Rosalind Beardshaw (Alanna Max) is a perfect book to encourage very young children to discover the joy of sharing books and stories. A carefully structured story highlighting the importance of traditions and cultural identity and bursting with joy and enthusiasm for family connections and loving relationships, this is an absolute delight. Text and illustrations work together beautifully in this latest book in the Lulu series and, as we have come to expect from this partnership, encourage chat and involvement between child and parent or teacher as they share the story.

There is plenty here that little people will recognise and engage with and the vibrant pictures reinforce the message of family bonding and loving inter-generational relationships even when members live far apart. The family spends the week doing different activities like shopping for presents for family back in Tanzania, having dance parties, and learning how to make Nana’s special mandazi doughnuts.

There are so many little thoughtful touches included and the range of activities that the family participate in explore traditions and cultural background enabling children to either recognise their own lives or learn about other children’s. The emphasis on sharing is simply lovely and this is such a comforting book for little people and for their adults too. Full of joy, love and family togetherness this is a must buy for early years settings and libraries for children aged 3+.

Anisha Accidental Detective: Beach Disaster (Usborne Books) is the latest book in this popular, award winning series by Serena Patel and Emma McCann. A winning combination of mystery, humour and friendship in a story exploring environmental themes this is a brilliant holiday read but definitely one that will be enjoyed any time of year. This time we join Anisha and her friends as they embark on their long awaited Year 6 residential trip to the coast where they are going to learn about animal habitats. They are looking forward to three days away from grownups and hoping to win the local environmental competition. Cue the decision by Anisha’s Granny Jas to come along as a chaperone and then attempt to sabotage the children’s entries to the competition. Anisha is soon involved in an attempt to solve the mystery and ensure success for their project.

This jolly adventure is fast paced and full of fun with a likeable protagonist in Anisha who is immensely relatable for young readers. There are clues, plot twists and intrigue to engage, themes of family, friendship and overcoming problems to reassure and a thoughtful exploration of environmental themes too. The book is illustrated throughout by Emma McCann and her entertaining and amusing touch adds to the overall enjoyment. A brilliant book to tempt readers of about 7 and over and a great series to encourage young readers.

Welcome to Dead Town Raven McKay (Everything With Words) is an astonishing debut by Eibhlís Carcione illustrated in gothic style throughout by Ewa Beniak-Haremska and a magical tale for readers who enjoy ghost stories with a mythical touch. When her parents disappear, 12 -year-old Raven McKay is put into foster care with Kitty Stromsoe in the town of Grave’s Pass. It’s not an ordinary town. It’s a town where the living and the dead live side by side and old mistrusts and jealousies lurk beneath the surface. All her parents have left Raven is a battered beige suitcase with a faded black butterfly sticker and a note saying not to open the suitcase until the right time. Raven struggles to resist temptation and to know who she can trust in this strange town.

There is an hypnotic feel to this unusual story with its sinister characters and its deliciously spooky setting with Beniak-Haremska’s stunning illustrations conveying the evil in some style. Even the most mundane of activities such as clothes shopping is imbued with danger and uncertainty in the world of Grave’s Pass. As the plot develops the thrills mount and the grotesque characters increase as the reader wills Raven on in her quest to find out what has happened to her parents. This is a highly original book combining a ghostly thriller with a exploration of loss for readers of about 11 upwards.

Rhubarb Lemonade by Oskar Kroon translated by A. A. Prime ( Hot Key Books) a YA novel originally published in Swedish won the Swedish Arts’ Council August Prize in 2019 and also the 2021 Dutch Vlag en Wimpel award for children aged 12 – 15. Kroon tells the story of Vinga, a girl who feels different to her classmates and dreams of one day becoming a sailor exploring different faraway lands and seas. Distressed by the break up of her parents’ marriage Vinga spends the long hot summer with her Grandpa on the island where he lives and finds comfort in his easy pace of life and the beauty of her surroundings. When a new girl arrives on the island Vinga is wary but gradually a friendship forms with Ruth, a girl so different from herself, and slowly their friendship develops into something more.

This compelling novel highlights the difficulties and insecurities faced by young people on the cusp of adolescence, the awkwardness and also the urge to discover and experience more. The relationship between Vinga and her Grandpa is beautifully drawn conveying their special bond so well. The slightly unusual writing style is both tender and unsettling in turn covering themes of divorce, bereavement, first love and LGBT relationships making this a book for a teen audience of about 14+. A little different to my usual reading choices but Rhubarb Lemonade is a poignant story that will linger in my mind.

The Mind-Blowing World of Extraordinary Competitions by Anna Goldfield and Hannah Riordan (Neon Squid) details the range of challenges that people have competed in through the ages and across the world from the brave to the humorous from the creative to the downright strange. This is the sort of information book that will appeal to lovers of books such as Guinness Book of World Records, a large compendium to be shared and talked about.

Starting with events that date back thousands of years such as Chinese dragon boat racing and ‘wine slinging’ in Ancient Greece readers will learn about the origins and traditions of many sporting events including the Highland Games and African wrestling. Each competition is given a double page spread and the accompanying illustrations are clear with additional detail being provided in text boxes. The presentation encourages browsing but the contents page and index enables reader to look up specific items too. There are competitions involving animals including sheep counting, camel beauty contests and the fattest bear (yes, really!). The section on challenges in mythology is interesting and there are challenges that youngsters may be tempted to try such as air guitar or growing giant vegetables. Lots here to entertain but readers will learn at the same time. I can see this being popular in school libraries for Upper Juniors onwards.

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New Children’s Books for Summer Holiday Reading

Posted on August 2, 2023 by alibrarylady

The Attack of the Robot Librarians by Sam Copeland and Jenny Pearson illustrated by Robin Boyden and Katie Kear

If the young readers in your life enjoy funny, madcap adventures then The Attack of the Robot Librarians is sure to be a hit with them. Pitched at readers of about 8+ this has all the ingredients that appeal to many; children challenging and (spoiler alert!) defeating the baddies, heaps of humour, a fast paced plot and an unlikely but strong friendship at its heart. The jolly illustrations throughout are an added bonus adding to the fun and breaking up the text for those who may find pages of dense text a little daunting.

The second in the Tuchus and Topps Investigate series sees our heroes, Agatha and Lenny, return to try to get to the bottom of the mysterious goings on at Little Strangehaven Primary. Sinister robot owl librarians with laser eyes, Mr Whip the new fearsome PE teacher and new pedal powered desks are just some of the challenges our intrepid young detectives face as they try to stop Ms Pamela Stranglebum and her sinister plans, with the help of their Scottish gargoyle pal Gregor.

The dual narrative works well highlighting the very different personalities of the organised and competitive Agatha and the enthusiastic but accident prone Lenny. Their differing viewpoints and misunderstandings add to the fun and despite the chaos and jokes ultimately there is loyalty and kindness in their partnership and a thoughtful message about the importance of teamwork. (Published by Puffin on 6th June.) Thank you to Lindsay Sethia for my review copy.

Mysteries at Sea: Peril on the Atlantic by A. M. Howell

Cover artwork by Marco Guadalupi

Peril on the Atlantic is the first in a new series by award winning author A.M. Howell and will have young readers eagerly awaiting the next two stories, due to be published next year. This reminded me in the best possible way of my own childhood favourites, the well paced plot is reminiscent of the Famous Five adventures with a dash of Tintin for added international flavour.

Set in 1936 we accompany Alice as she joins her father aboard the Queen Mary as it sets sail across the Atlantic to New York. As her staff captain father concentrates on beating a sailing record Alice slips away to explore the ship without his knowledge and witnesses a shocking attack. Together with her new friend Sonny, Alice attempts to identify the perpetrator by solving a series of clues and as the two children gradually unravel the mystery they also unearth secrets in their own lives. Setting a crime within a closed circle such as a ship is a familiar plot device and it works well here as this cleverly constructed and well paced story is not predictable adding greatly to the enjoyment.

The inclusion of historical detail is incorporated in such a way that it supports the exciting adventure rather than dominates the action. It does however give the book an extra depth. Alice’s conversations with Pearl, a stewardess who survived the Titanic disaster bring home the fear that many passengers may have felt aboard a large ship at that time. Fellow passengers aboard the Queen Mary also include a Jewish family escaping from the growing turmoil and danger in Germany and this aspect is thoughtfully handled. There are light moments too, such as the inclusion of Fred Astaire dancing his way along the railings as a nod to the celebrities who regularly travelled on this famous ship in the 1930s.

Peril on the Atlantic is just the type of book that the ten year old me would have devoured and I’ve a feeling that this could turn today’s ten year olds into bookworms too. Last but not least the setting up for the second book in the series is masterly in its execution! The first in the Mysteries at Sea series is published by Usborne Books on 3rd August and highly recommended. Thank you very much to Fritha Lindqvist for my review copy.

The Stolen Songbird by Judith Eagle illustrated by Kim Geyer

Cover illustration by Kim Geyer

It’s refreshing to read children’s fiction set in a time period that doesn’t often feature in stories for young readers and Judith Eagle’s latest mystery adventure is set in 1950’s London. With plenty of twists and turns and different threads brought together in a satisfying conclusion The Stolen Songbird has enough excitement to keep youngsters turning the pages over the holidays.

When Caro’s mother disappears whilst overseas on a theatre tour Caro is dispatched to the care of her Great Aunt Mary, a grumpy old lady who she has never met. Worse still Caro is not allowed to take her beloved pet rabbit, His Nibs with her. Once at her Aunt’s Caro discovers a mysterious painting of a thrush in her suitcase with no clue to where it came from. Caro now finds herself hiding her rabbit from her Great Aunt and trying to find the owners of the painting of the songbird before criminals steal it.

Judith Eagle combines a traditional mystery with clues, red herrings and truly dreadful baddies with a family mystery that Caro gradually solves with the help of her friends. There are some references that neatly place the story in its time period such as Caro’s friend Horace’s admiration of the young Yves St Laurent and the teddy boys who lurk near the pub run by Caro’s mum and these are balanced with modern sensibilities.

Kim Geyer has provided the chapter heading illustrations and these add to the period feel and she has, I think, captured Caro’s determined and sparky character. (Published by Faber on 3rd August.) I should like to thank Bethany Carter for my review copy.

Sweet Skies by Robin Scott- Elliot

Cover by Holly Ovenden

Sweet Skies combines cracking storytelling, interesting historical detail and fascinating characters in a tale of bravery, survival and growing up in post war Berlin. Robin Scott-Elliot’s fourth historical novel was inspired by a conversation with his mother who lived in Berlin in the 1950s as a child and, prompted by her vivid memories and news reels of the time, this tense and exciting story has an authentic feel which adds to the reader’s enjoyment.

In Berlin in 1948 fourteen year old Otto wants to be pilot more than anything else in the world. The city is blockaded by the Soviets with the Americans flying food and supplies in to the citizens and Otto and his friends, Ilse and Klaus, are captivated by these heroic, charming figures and the chocolate and treats they drop for the hungry children. The three teenagers are surviving in the ruined city each of them scarred physically, emotionally or both by the effects of the recent war. Against this backdrop Otto makes choices that endanger him and his friends but also enable him to eventually understand himself and his family better.

The plot of Sweet Skies is thrilling and full of excitement, danger and betrayal but balanced by well rounded and interesting characters. The interactions, conversations and friendship between the young people convey the emotions, trauma, fear and frustration they have experienced without melodrama which, I think, increases the impact. It is also interesting to have a viewpoint from the German side of World War 2 and in the immediate aftermath too. An utterly gripping story suitable for readers from about 11 years upwards this is equally suitable for home bookshelves and school libraries. (Published on 6th July by Everything With Words.)

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A Week of Celebrations in the World of Children’s Books.

Posted on July 15, 2023 by alibrarylady

This week has seen three special celebrations, all of them involving the world of children’s books but each of them highlighting a different aspect. I was lucky to be able to attend one of these happy occasions and would like to share below details of that and the other two ceremonies too as I think they illustrate both the importance and the impact of children’s literature and those who create and promote it.

The 2023 winners of the Branford Boase Award were announced by Maisie Chan, last year’s winner, on Thursday 13 July at a ceremony at the Centre for Literacy in Primary Education. The happy buzz of book chat greeted me at the door and I defy any children’s book lover to walk through their wonderful library without stopping for a look at the inviting shelves and displays. The perfect venue to celebrate new talent and to look forward with optimism. From an impressive and varied shortlist Christine Pillainayagam is the winner of this year’s award for the year’s outstanding debut novel for young people for her funny, song-filled, second-generation coming of age story Ellie Pillai is Brown. The Branford Boase Award is unique in honouring editor as well as author and Christine shares the win with her editor, Leah Thaxton, of Faber & Faber.

Christine Pillainayagam describes her book as “a classic coming of age story with the added layer of colour” and says the idea came from some of her own experiences growing up as a second-generation immigrant in a majority white community. In her moving acceptance speech Christine stressed the importance of all children seeing themselves in fiction and wanted her readers to know that “they belong where they believe they belong.”

Running alongside the Branford Boase Award, the Henrietta Branford Writing Competition encourages writing talent in under 18s. Prue Goodwin, competition judge, spoke eloquently about the need for children to find their own voice and this competition encourages just that and, we hope, nurtures authors of the future. You can read this year’s winning entries here.

Monday saw the winner of the CLiPPA, (CLPE Children’s Poetry Award), the UK’s only national award for published poetry for children announced at the National Theatre’s Lyttleton Theatre. Chair of the judges former Children’s Laureate Chris Riddell announced that the CLiPPA 2023 was awarded to Ted Kooser and Connie Wanek for their collection of poems inspired by nature, Marshmallow Clouds illustrated by Richard Jones. In a year of outstanding poetry publishing for children, Nicola Davies was Highly Commended for her moving sequence of poems about the refugee experience, Choose Love illustrated by Petr Horáček.

Charlotte Hacking, Learning Programme Director at CLPE and member of the CLiPPA judging panel says, “The strength of this year’s shortlist made this a really difficult decision. Every one of these books is exceptional.” Children in schools across the UK have explored all five collections on the shortlist through the CLiPPA Shadowing Scheme, which each year prompts poetry performances by thousands of children in hundreds of classrooms. The young creators of the best poem performances took part in the ceremony, performing poems from each of the shortlisted collections live onstage alongside the poets. It is heartening to witness children’s involvement in this award, in a similar way to the Branford Boase, and this focus on the readers themselves is an important element.

I was sad not to be able to attend the ceremony which sounds to have been full of enthusiasm and positivity. If you too would like to catch up with the event there is a video of the proceedings available to watch here.

Another celebration this week thanked those people who ensure that the books listed for and winning awards such as those mentioned above reach as many children and young people as possible. School Librarians! The School Library Association announced the winners of the Primary and Secondary School Librarian of the Year, Community Award and Enterprise of the Year at its annual award ceremony in Swindon on Tuesday 11th July. I was personally delighted to see Sally Hamerton win the Primary School Librarian of the Year Award as I know how dedicated, enthusiastic and committed Sally has always been. Tom Stack, deputy head of Two Mile Hill Primary said, “Two Mile Hill Primary is a better school because of Sally; she has enabled children to develop reading as a habit, a hobby, and a life-long passion.”

The 2023 Secondary School Librarian of the Year was awarded to Bridget Hamlet from Rushey MeadAcademy, Leicester. Bridget has not only had a huge impact on the library at Rushey Mead, transforming it into a welcoming, vibrant space, but has also set up libraries in other schools in the Academy Trust. Steve Reyes, from the award’s sponsor OverDrive said, “It is so important we give librarians like Bridget the recognition they deserve for making school libraries a safe space to learn, be creative and develop a love of reading.”

You can find out more about these super librarians and the winners of the Community Award and the Enterprise of the Year Award on the School Library Association website.

It has been an inspiring week witnessing these events and we have more to look forward to in the coming days with the announcement of the Little Rebels Children’s Book Award due later this month. There is much to celebrate in the world of children’s books and if you are like me I’m sure these events have added some new titles to your buy/borrow list!

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Reading Matters – children’s book news

Posted on July 8, 2023 by alibrarylady

Welcome to this week’s round up of children’s book news and the last one of this school year. There is a bit of a summer reading theme to some of the links and I hope that they are useful.

What I’m reading…

Cover illustration by Jane Matthews

For several days now I’ve been savouring a wonderful book, The Song That Sings Us. I don’t think I’ve ever read anything quite like it before but it’s definitely a book that lingers in the mind. As I read this compelling story I travelled with the three captivating children created by Nicola Davies down mountain slopes, through dense woodland, and dazzling forests. The exciting adventure shines with the author’s love of our natural world and sees good battle against the powers of evil. This dystopian world feels frighteningly real and the voices of the animal characters convey much that is important to us all. This a story told on a grand scale but with individual hope at its heart, highlighting the thread that connects us all. It will, I think, leave its readers with a wish to share in ‘the song’. Please do read the guest post by Nicola, Sea Fever, today’s article in the blog tour taking place to mark the paperback publication this week of The Sing That Sings Us.

News, articles and resources…

The Summer Reading Challenge – launched last month in Scotland and today in England and Wales, 2023 sees a sports and games themed Summer Reading Challenge: Ready, Set, Read. You can join the Challenge at your local library and take part in person or sign up online to join in the fun. The Ready, Set, Read collection of books includes a range of books for all taste and this is a brilliant way to encourage children to keep reading over the summer break. Please have a look at the website linked above to find out more.

Book Trust: New Children’s Books We Love for July – Every month, the Book Trust team review dozens of books for children and teenagers. This month’s selection ranges from an interactive board book for babies and toddlers to translated fiction for 12+. Something for everyone to read this summer!

The Reader Teacher: July 2023 Children’s Books I’m Most Excited About – more fabulous new books to choose from. Scott’s selection includes the The Boy Who Made Monsters by Jenny Pearson and Katie Kear, Sweet Skies by Robin Scott-Elliot which is next up on my reading shelf and a new picture book from Jon Klassen.

The Island of Brilliant Episode 3 – in this latest episode of this great podcast you can listen to Nadia Shireen and Frank Cottrell Boyce chat with Ed Vere and find out which books Emily Drabble of Book Trust is recommending to us.

Mr Dilly Meets – Kid’s Author Super Summer Special – the recording of this event which took place recently is now available to watch on YouTube, link above. Get ready to meet some of the biggest and best-selling childen’s authors, here with their summer reads 2023 for you. The authors include G M Linton, Jenny Pearson, Phil Earle, Jeffrey Boake and Caryl Lewis.

Re-wilding your family and your phone by Nicola Davie – a timely article for the Federation of Children’s Book Groups in which Nicola Davies talks to Lyn Bowles about the Song That Sings Us and how important it is for children and adults to do a bit of self re-wilding.

TOPPSTA Summer Reading – TOPPSTA have some fantastic recommendations this year, from silly picture books through to enchanting middle-grade stories. These books will keep even the most reluctant reader entertained and they are all available to win this summer through Toppsta! Just read and review one of the books listed on the website above by 31st August and the person who submits the favourite review will win a set of all the books for their school.

The Week Junior Summer of Reading – The Week Junior will be providing full details of their special Summer Reading Challenge, including the chance to win fantastic prizes, in their 21st July issue. Meanwhile you can download their 2023 booklist made up of 50 inclusive and inspiring children’s books that have been recommended by their readers here.

A Story of Hope: author Na’ima B. Robert and illustrator Nadine Kaadan – Sue McGonigle talks to Na’ima B. Robert and Nadine Kaadan about their new book A Child Like You in this thoughtful interview for Books for Keeps.

5 top tips for choosing baby books – Babies can’t see books as well as children and adults. Professor Anna Franklin, from the Sussex Baby Lab at the University of Sussex, explains what babies can see and what they like to look at, and shares some expert tips on how to select books for babies.

Book Recommendations: Starting School – yes, I know it’s coming up to the end of term but for organised types who are already thinking about planning for September Little Wandle Letters and Sounds have come up with some excellent suggestions of books to share with young children starting school or nursery.

2023 Teachers’ Reading Challenge – The Teachers’ Reading Challenge is an opportunity for school and library staff to expand their knowledge of contemporary children’s books and develop their understanding of reading for pleasure pedagogy. Run by The Reading Agency in partnership with the Open University, the challenge will enable you access resources and be inspired by recommendations from a community of educators and readers, as you discover brilliant children’s books this summer. Full details on the website above.

It’s Not Me, It’s You: An Argument for Shorter Middle Grade Books – This article by former teacher and literacy trainer Melissa Taylor raises important points about the importance of choice, range and availability if we want to encourage children to read.

Finally, some book reviews that caught my eye this week…

Art is Everywhere by Joe Haddow, illustrated by Ellie Hawes – in her excellent review Veronica Price recommends this new non-fiction title as a must buy for schools but it would no doubt be useful to parents over the summer holidays too. “The entire book feels like a direct conversation with an adult who genuinely wants to impart their own enjoyment of a particular hobby to a young audience, in the hope that they will derive the same joy.”

Norah’s Ark by Victoria Williamson – this is a really lovely review by Jacqui Sydney of a book that explores difficult topics such as poverty, homelessness and childhood illness in an empathetic manner, “this would make such a powerful read aloud in upper KS2 to open up discussions about kindness and respect, and how to provide emotional support to those who need it.”

That’s everything for this week and for this school year too. I hope these weekly updates have been helpful and hope that the final weeks of the school year go well for everyone. Wishing everyone a happy summer with your families and friends.

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Blog Tour – The Song That Sings Us by Nicola Davies

Posted on July 8, 2023 by alibrarylady

Nicola Davies needs no introduction to lovers of children’s books. Nicola trained as a zoologist before becoming a TV presenter and writer. With over eighty books for children of all ages to her credit she has won awards, collaborated with excellent illustrators and is a regular and highly regarded speaker at conferences. This week sees the the publication of the paperback edition of her Carnegie nominated story The Song That Sings Us with its stunning cover illustration by Jane Matthews and internal artwork by Jackie Morris.

Cover illustration by Jane Matthews

As I read this compelling story over the last few days I travelled with the three captivating children created by Nicola Davies down mountain slopes, through dense woodland, and dazzling forests. The exciting adventure shines with the author’s love of our natural world and sees good battle against the powers of evil. This dystopian world feels frighteningly real and the voices of the animal characters convey much that is important to us all. This a story told on a grand scale but with individual hope at its heart, highlighting the thread that connects us all. It will, I think, leave its readers with a wish to share in ‘the song’. The storyline features dramatic events which take place on a wide ocean and it is a delight to welcome Nicola Davies to the blog today to talk about her own relationship with the sea and the creatures who inhabit this world.

SEA FEVER by Nicola Davies

Tearing round the end of a platform in Cambridge station in the Winter of 1978, I had a life changing encounter. I ran headlong into the young man who was to become the foremost whale scientist of his generation. He is an Emeritus Professor now, with hundreds of scientific papers and a shelf of books to his name, but back then Hal Whitehead was a scruffy post doc, with ripped jeans and a shock of hair like gold fuse wire. It turned out he needed a research assistant for a study on the feeding behaviour of humpbacked whales. So, that summer I stood on the top of a 200m cliff in Newfoundland at the bottom of which were my first humpbacks. I’ll never forget those three, grey, streamlined bodies, the beautiful curl of their flukes and their long white flippers showing turquoise through the green waters. 

Humpbacks from my cliff in Newfoundland

I spent two Summers on that cliff and on Hal’s little sailboat Firenze, studying behaviour and distribution of wild whales. The experience of sailing, exploring and adventuring changed me forever. I’d always adored the sea but never been around boats, as my father claimed he was the only person to get sea sick while watching the canoe sequence in the film “How The West Was Won’. The realisation that, once aboard a sailboat, you can literally go anywhere, was completely new and utterly beguiling. In spite of the cold and the never ending sea sickness (I am in spite of all my weeks aboard small boats a hopeless sailor) I adored being afloat and propelled by the whispering and singing of the wind in the sails. 

The crew of Firenze, clockwise from me on the right, Hal, Cathy, Hannah and Michael

Since those magical summers I’ve been lucky enough to sail with Hal and his ever expanding group of research collaborators on other sailboats in other oceans. I’ve followed blue whales in the Indian ocean, and sperm whales in the Sea of Cortez and the Caribbean. The sailing – long passages in dodgy weather, starry skies at 2 am, coming into port at dawn – has been woven into many of my books over the years and of course was the seed from which the sea faring tiger, Skrimsli – one of the heroes of the Song that Sings Us, suddenly sprouted. 

Me and Hal on Baleana

I don’t sail now but I do have extremely regular contact with the sea. I live within sight of it and I seldom go a day when I’m home when I’m not on it or in it. This morning my husband and I were out on his slowly chugging little fishing boat to haul our crab and lobster pots. What is wonderful about any kind of floating expedition – boat, kayak, SUP, or wild swim – is that it is an adventure because the sea, even in calm weather, is a wild thing, unpredictable and unruly. You have to have your wits about you, you have to pay attention to the wind, the light, the surface and while you are doing that, the small world of human ‘things and stuff’ falls away. 

Heading out of harbour with my hubby on our little boat Kittiwake

I put a lot of adventure into the Song That Sings Us A and although Harlon, Xeno and Ash don’t choose the adventure they embark on at the start of the book, by the end, they are able to relish new experiences and new challenges – they have become more adventurous. One of the many things I want for my readers, is for them to have adventures in the world, to explore, to learn new skills, try new experiences. I want them to feel they can step out and go in search of wildness.

Thank you to Nicola Davies for this lovely article. Having read The Song That Sings Us I feel sure that it will inspire young readers in the manner she hopes.

Thank you to Graeme Williams and Firefly Press for their help in preparing this post. Please do follow the rest of this blog tour to find out more about this remarkable book.

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Reading Matters – children’s book news

Posted on July 1, 2023 by alibrarylady

Welcome to this week’s catch up with what has been happening in the world of children’s books. It been a busy few days and I may have missed some news but hope that this week’s selection provides a helpful taste of what’s going on. I’m delighted to share some exciting news (perfectly timed to link with the Lionesses friendly match today!) from Tom Palmer about his new series of football books out in September, see the news section below.

What I’m reading…

The highlight of my week was attending the launch of Jenny Pearson’s brilliant new book, The Boy Who Made Monsters on Tuesday evening. It was such a happy event to be part of as the children’s department of Waterstones Trafalgar Square was full of laughter and celebration. The children’s book world is made up of people from different backgrounds including publishing, education, libraries, book bloggers and reviewers plus of course the authors and illustrators themselves but there is a strong sense of community spirit and that was definitely apparent on Tuesday. Thank you very much to Jenny and Fritha Lindqvist from Usborne Books for making it possible.

Over the last week or so I’ve been reading my latest batch of books to review for Just Imagine all of which I would recommend. Firstly, two picturebooks, My Brother George an uplifting story about sharing to be different but finding our place as part of loving families and Grandpa and the Kingfisher is a gentle story depicting the close relationship between a grandparent and child linking it to the life cycle, the seasons and the natural world.

I enjoyed Jacko by Jeanne Willis very much, based on the true story of a jackdaw rescued by a young boy in the 1950s it combines animal story, friendship, an interesting look at post war life and an exploration of dealing with loss in different forms.

News, articles and resources…

Cover art by Gaby Epstein

New Series from Tom Palmer – With the Women’s World Cup beginning this month and set to take the summer by storm, Rebellion Publishing has announced the publication of THE SOCCER DIARIES, a brand new series of books for children aged 7-12 years old starring young female footballer Rocky Race. Starting in September 2023 with Rocky Takes L.A. the story will balance football action with social problems and trials that children and young adults will be familiar with. Tom Palmer says, “I’m beyond thrilled that Rocky now gets her own series. Of all the characters I write I love writing Rocky the most. She’s such a fun character to write. I often have a plan of how the story will go, but once I put her into a scene it’s almost like Rocky takes it in a whole new direction! It’s such a joy to write Rocky stories, especially after co-creating the character, and I’m thrilled to be bringing The Soccer Diaries to the world that stars such a wonderful, inspiring, and special female lead for young readers to look up to.” You can find out more and follow Rocky’s updates on Tom’s website and you can preorder a copy of the first book here.

Books for Topics: Summer Reading Bingo – this new-look summer reading bingo challenge is designed to keep children motivated to read over the summer holidays. It is an activity that keeps the focus on reading for pleasure experiences rather than specific texts, with activities like make a den and read inside, read in the dark using a torch and read to a pet or a soft toy. Children can choose what they read for the challenges, although some Summer 2023 recommended reads are included for those looking for new ideas. Full details and downloadable bingo cards can be found via the link above.

Reading for pleasure early in childhood linked to better cognitive performance and mental wellbeing in adolescence – In a study of more than 10,000 young adolescents in the US published this week in Psychological Medicine, researchers in the UK and China found that 12 hours a week was the optimal amount of reading, and that this was linked to improved brain structure, which may help explain the findings.

Summer reading: 50 brilliant books to discover – some suggestions well worth earmarking for your summer break, from family sagas to political memoirs, the best recent books to accompany your summer break, plus page-turning paperbacks and children’s and YA books.

Streaming: Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical and the best adaptations of classic children’s books – prompted by the arrival of Matilda the Musical on Netflix Guy Lodge looks at the array of children’s book that have been transferred to the big screen in his article for the Guardian.

Brilliant Children’s Books to Read this Summer – if you are planning your summer reading or looking for books to tempt the children in your life this helpful article on the LoveReading4Kids website is a good place to start planning.

Ways to help children become readers – Book Trust Writer-in-Residence, SF Said, has spoken to some inspirational librarians to find out what really works to help children discover reading for pleasure. This is a must read and definitely worth saving and referring to as it’s full of great advice.

New projects remember Bookstart founder Wendy Cooling MBE – Wendy Cooling was a pioneer and the founder of Bookstart,the BookTrust programme which gets books into the hands of millions of babies and toddlers each year in the UK and which inspired equivalent programmes around the world. The three new projects were officially announced at the Yoto Carnegies award ceremony and you can find out more about them above.

Winners of Poetry By Heart 2023 Announced – the Grand Finale of Poetry By Heart, the national poetry speaking competition for schools, took place at Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre on Monday 26 June. It is ten years since then Poet Laureate Andrew Motion set up Poetry By Heart with Dr Julie Blake and it has become hugely popular in schools. The competition invites young people to choose a poem, learn it by heart and perform it aloud. This year saw the biggest ever response: 2,000 video entries of poetry performances; 90,000 young people involved; a staggering 39,000 poems learned by heart. You can find out more about the competition via the link above. The 2024 Poetry By Heart competition will launch on this year’s National Poetry Day, 5 October 2023 with another poetry extravaganza at The Globe.

The Mo Siewcharran Prize 2023 Longlist Announced – Hachette UK’s The Future Bookshelf is running the Mo Siewcharran Prize for its fourth year to help discover unpublished fiction writers from Black, Asian, mixed heritage and minority ethnic backgrounds. For 2023, the prize is hosted by Hachette Children’s Group who are looking for fiction writing in the picture book genre. The books on the longlist can be viewed on the website above. The shortlist announcement will take place on 11th September 2023, and the winner will be announced at the prize ceremony on 28th September 2023.

Jericho Prize 2022/23 awards ceremony – The full awards ceremony for the Jericho Prize 2022/23, held on Tuesday 27 June. Presented by Jericho Prize founder Fabia Turner, this event includes interviews with the five nominated writers plus readings from all the shortlisted scripts and a few extra surprises along the way. If like me you missed this event live on Tuesday it’s now available on YouTube linked above. The Jericho Prize supports unpublished and self-published Black-British children’s writers. Find out more about their work (and the winner if you don’t have time to watch the video!) at www.jerichoprize.com.

Author Michael Rosen wins 2023 PEN Pinter prize for ‘fearless’ body of work – Established in memory of English playwright Harold Pinter, the award honours a writer based in the UK, Ireland or the Commonwealth who – in the words of Pinter’s 2005 Nobel prize acceptance speech – shows a “fierce intellectual determination” to “define the real truth of our lives and our societies.” Michael Rosen will receive the prize during a ceremony at the British Library in October.

It takes a village: the need for a whole school approach to encourage reading for pleasure – a guest blog from Kate Atkinson, English leader at St Mary’s Junior in Baldock, on the HFL Education website describing how she galvanised her school community to take pleasure in reading. Full of tips and advice.

The Reader Teacher June 2023 Monthly Must Reads – Scott Evans has selected five of his favourite books published during the month of June and has shared reviews and a poster which is free to download.

Finally, some book reviews that caught my eye this week…

Shiver Point: It Came From The Woods by Gabriel Dylan – teacher and blogger Tom Griffiths says this is “perfect for Crater Lake, Sticky Pines, Dread Wood & Goosebumps fans” so it should definitely be in school librarians’ shopping lists! Read Tom’s review to find out more about this new book published in September.

Stolen History by Sathnam Sanghera – an excellent review by Sue Magee of the Bookbag of this new non-fiction title. “A superb introduction for the preteen to the British Empire and how we should approach its history in the 21st century. Highly recommended.”

That’s everything for this week and I hope you have found something here that’s helpful to you. Happy weekend and I hope you find time for some reading.

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Reading Matters – children’s book news

Posted on June 24, 2023 by alibrarylady

Welcome to this week’s look at what has been happening in the world of children’s books. More important award announcements took place, there are some helpful articles on the subject of reading for pleasure, plus review round ups. Lots here to tempt you!

What I’m reading…

Jenny Pearson is an author who has developed a justified reputation for balancing laugh out loud hilarity with a thoughtful look at life and her latest book, The Boy Who Made Monsters explores the subject of childhood bereavement with tenderness and understanding. I think it is an utterly lovely book in which smiles and tears combine to create a story of hopeful optimism. Stories for children, especially when they are exploring difficult themes, need to have if not a happy ending at least a hopeful one. In Jenny Pearson’s capable hands the heartache of grief is balanced with humour and a huge amount of hope.

Several new information books have been published in recent months and this week I reviewed just a small selection of some of my favourites for children from about four to early secondary age. Titles include a colourful guide to the human body described for young children, an excellent book by disability activist Ashley Harris Whaley enabling adults to explain what disability is and why it should be celebrated, everything curious children could possibly want to know about sharks, a look at how plants may help us with challenges such as climate change and producing enough food for everyone and a readable guide to friendship issues.

News, articles and resources…

Dads Make Stories Magic – Dads Make Stories Magic is a campaign to get the nation reading together this summer from children’s reading charity BookTrust and children’s book publishers Farshore and HarperCollins Children’s Books. The campaign has been launched as new research found that only 29% of children are read to every day or nearly every day by their dads, despite this being one of the most effective ways of encouraging children’s enjoyment of reading and proven to have a positive impact on their life chances. The website includes features of dads reading with their children, advice and tips plus links to research.

Children’s and teens roundup: the best new picture books and novels – Dreams of Bollywood; awkward questions about the British Empire; a haunted school trip; and a riotous YA horror-comedy are included in Imogen Russell Williams’ latest selection for all ages.

Developing a Culture of Reading for Pleasure 4: Reading Communities – “We cannot make a child read for pleasure. However, we can create an environment in which reading is presented as enticing and engaging.” Open University Reading for Pleasure lecturer Debbie Thomas explores the power of Reading Communities in the last of her series of four blogs on the Literacy Hive website.

Book Trust Virtual Event: Candy Gourlay talk and Q&A – Join Candy on Friday 7 July at 11am in a fun discussion of how to design characters, how a story can grow out of a character, and how the best characters always leave you yearning to spend more time with them. Suitable for year groups 5, 6 & 7. More information and how to register via the link above.

What to read after… The Tiger Who Came to Tea – Some books end up etched in the memories of not just families and classes but entire generations. Judith Kerr’s The Tiger Who Came to Tea is one of those classics. Assistant headteacher Dean Boddington, creator of the No Shelf Control newsletter has come up with some great suggestions of what to read after this much loved classic.

Yoto Carnegie Winners 2023 Announced – For the first time in the awards almost 90-year history, the Yoto Carnegie Medal for Writing is awarded to a book in translation – The Blue Book of Nebo written and translated by Manon Steffan Ros. Jeet Zdung has won the Yoto Carnegie Medal for Illustration for Saving Sorya: Chang and the Sun Bear. This is the second consecutive year that a graphic novel has clinched the prize. Children and young people ‘shadowing’ the judging process, debate and choose their own winners and have voted for I Must Betray You by Ruta Sepetys for the Yoto Carnegie Shadowers’ Choice Medal for Writing, and The Comet by Joe Todd-Stanton for the Yoto Carnegie Shadowers’ Choice Medal for Illustration. Many congratulations to all the winners.

Interview with Yoto Carnegie 2023 winner for illustration Jeet Zdung – Tanja Jennings, one of the judges on this year’s Yoto Carnegies panel, interviewed Jeet for Books for Keeps. You can also read Tanya’s interesting interview with Manon Steffan Ros winner of the prize for writing here.

CLPE’s May New Books Round-Up – Each month CLPE’s Librarian, Phoebe Demeger, reveals some of her favourite books she has recently added to their Literacy Library. Suitable for Early Years right up to Lower Secondary age.

A Place Called “Home” – A Windrush Biography by G M Linton – this week marked the 75th anniversary of the arrival of HMT Empire Windrush at Tilbury docks in the UK and celebrating the Windrush generation and their joyful and important legacy children’s author G M Linton writes about her parents in this lovely article. You can read my review of her excellent new novel My Name Is Sunshine Simpson here.

Indie Book Awards Winners – the winners in each four categories: Fiction, Non-Fiction, Children’s Fiction and Picture Book were announced yesterday. Skandar and the Unicorn Thief by A.F. Steadman win the children’s fiction category and The Boy with Flowers in His Hair by Jarvis was the winner of the picturebook section. Congratulations to all the winning authors.

UKLA Award Winners Announced – Katya Balen becomes first ever to achieve back-to-back wins with The Light in Everything winning the 7-11 category this year following her previous win with October, October. Costa-winning The Crossing scoops Manjeet Mann her second UKLA award in the 11- 14+ age group. The 3-6+ category has been won by a stunning debut. Flooded by Mariajo Ilustrajo. Musical Truth –A Musical History of Modern Black Britain in 28 Songs written by Jeffrey Boakye with illustrations by Ngadi Smart won the Information Books 3-14+ category.

How to Spark! a Love of Reading in Your School – this guest blog by Sian Hardy, Literacy Hive is the last in a series on the Spark Awards website. Both these and the previous ones are well worth reading. The website provides information about these awards, the involvement of local schools and the judging process.

Finally, some book reviews that caught my eye this week…

Pea Pod Lullaby by Glenda Millard and Stephen Michael King – this picture book is particularly relevant this week as we marked Refugee Week. Veronica Price’s excellent review will tempt teachers and school librarians to make sure they have a copy. Veronica also shares a double page spread illustration that is extremely well done.

Peril on the Atlantic by A.M. Howell – I’m lucky enough to have received a proof copy of this book from Usborne and having read Ben Harris’s thoughtful review I’m going to shuffle it up my reading list. Anne Marie Howell writes the sort of story that I loved as a child and which, more importantly, Ben says children in his class love too. “What she does so well – and what all children love and appreciate – is to tell a magnificent story, and hers are ones that are full of mystery and twists and turns, the ones that keep you guessing and the ones that children year after year have told me they have enjoyed particularly.”

That’s all for this week. I hope you have a lovely weekend and some time to read too. Next Saturday I will be revealing the cover of Tom Palmer’s new book in the Rocky of the Rovers series due to be published in September so watch this space!

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Pick of the New Information Books for Children

Posted on June 22, 2023 by alibrarylady

Several new information books have been published in recent months and this is just a small selection of some of my favourites for children from about four to early secondary age.

Wise About My Body written by Libby Walden Illustrated by Ekaterinburg Trukhan

This colourful guide to the human body describes for young children how their bodies work and move and how they should be looked after. Using clear and appropriate language and presented in an uncluttered style this book includes information on a wide range of topics including differences, disabilities and consent in addition to facts about the skeleton, the major organs, senses and circulation. There are helpful sections on healthy eating and exercise, cleanliness and getting enough sleep. The illustrations are clear and child friendly contributing greatly to the overall appeal. Published by Ladybird Books on 1st June this would be a great introduction to the human body for children age 4+ and would be valuable in school libraries and classrooms and at home too.

I Am You Are: Let’s talk about disability, individuality and empowerment written by Ashley Harris Whaley Illustrated by Ananya Rao- Middleton

Also from Ladybird Books for a similar age group this excellent book by disability activist Ashley Harris Whaley is a practical book enabling adults to explain what disability is and why it should be celebrated. It is important that children learn how to talk about this subject and this book provides key information in an engaging manner supporting their understanding and with relatable examples. From the introduction explaining that we are all different and moving on to a definition of the term disability Ashley Harris Whaley looks at key words and concepts in an accessible manner. The reader learns about ableism, the problem with making assumptions and the importance of using acceptable terms and descriptions. The tone is inclusive and positive incorporating many different examples such as learning disabilities, cerebral palsy, deafness, Down Syndrome and autism. In addition to providing valuable information and background it also stresses the importance of thoughtfulness in attitudes towards all people whatever their differences may be. There is a helpful glossary and a note at the end for adults reading the book. Published in May and a must buy for primary school libraries.

Sharks! Sharks! Sharks! written by Susan Martineau illustrated by Vicky Barker

The award winning publisher, b small, produce some fabulous, appealing and educational books for children and this new book published this month is an excellent example. Pitched at children of about 5+ this will satisfy the most curious of enthusiasts as it is full of fascinating information. The bright, attractive illustrations are instantly appealing encouraging browsing and the eye catching cover provides instant shelf appeal. The presentation throughout the whole book is engaging and the cross section of the shark is well done creating an excellent learning tool. Young readers will discover everything they could possibly want to know about sharks within these pages from how they look after their young, to what they eat and their history. Many different types of sharks are included from tiny ones to enormous ones and even those that glow in the dark. There are posters and colouring sheets linked to the book available on the publisher’s website too. The list of ‘special shark words’ on the final pages is helpful. This is the kind of book that is shared by enthusiastic children in the school library and is recommended for home bookshelves too.

Plants To The Rescue! written by Dr Vikram Baliga illustrated by Brian Lambert

Published by Neon Squid next month this vibrantly illustrated book looks at how plants may help us with challenges such as climate change and producing enough food for everyone. The author explores the world of plants and provides the reader with a glimpse of the work being done by scientists to use plants to help us in the future. Baliga opens with a definition of what a plant is and then moves swiftly on to looking at examples of plants and how they are used, or may possibly be used in the future, to help us. He does occasionally bend his own rules by for example including reference to algae and fungi which are not plants however this remains a fascinating and enjoyable book crammed full of information and discussion. There are sections on the benefits of spending time outdoors and plants as medicine plus advice on growing plants ourselves. This is wide ranging in its coverage and may prompt children to research some items further and more deeply. Suitable for children from approximately 9+.

Usborne Friendship Survival Guide written by Caroline Young

What is a friend? How do you make new friends and be a good friend yourself? What happens when you fall out with friends? Is social media helpful or not? All these questions and issues are covered in this readable guide published in April by Usborne. Expert advice from clinical psychologist Dr Angharad Rudkin is incorporated and there are quizzes to complete plus useful links to websites offering guidance and support. Friendships can be tricky to navigate at any age and this accessible book is well pitched for its target audience of about 11+ although it would be useful to parents and teachers too. Caroline Young’s tone throughout is positive and she provides children and young people with tools and suggestions to help them cope with friendship difficulties in a sensible manner. The importance of kindness, respect and loyalty in friendships is stressed and the section on social media is comprehensive and thoughtful. This would be an excellent book for school libraries to stock and would be particularly useful for the transition stage from primary to secondary school.

I should like to thank Ladybird Books, b small publishers, Naomi Weeks, Neon Squid, Malu Rocha, Usborne Books and Amy Dobson for my review copies. All these books are now available to purchase at your local independent bookshop or online at ukbookshop.org by clicking on the individual titles above.

Disclosure: If you buy books linked to this site, we may earn a commission from Bookshop.org, whose fees support independent bookshops.”

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The Boy Who Made Monsters by Jenny Pearson illustrated by Katie Kear

Posted on June 20, 2023 by alibrarylady

Jenny Pearson is an author who has developed a justified reputation for balancing laugh out loud hilarity with a thoughtful look at life and her latest book, The Boy Who Made Monsters explores the subject of childhood bereavement with tenderness and understanding. It is an utterly lovely book in which smiles and tears combine to create a story of hopeful optimism.

Benji and his elder brother Stanley are moving to live with their Uncle Hamish in their Dad’s childhood home in Scotland at Loch Lochy Holiday Park. Benji is an eternal optimist and believes they will be happy there and that their parents who have been missing for months after a sailing accident will come home safe and sound. As the summer progresses and Benji and Stanley become involved in helping to save their Uncle’s business Benji’s powers of positive thinking are stretched to their limits. As he sets out to prove that the Loch Lochy monster does actually exist, in the hope of encouraging visitors to stay at his Uncle’s holiday homes, he gradually learns that monsters can appear in different guises.

One of Jenny Pearson’s skills as a writer is to create believable child characters and within a couple of chapters the reader cares very much about these two young brothers. Loveable ten year old Benji is upbeat and entertaining whereas thirteen year old Stanley is quiet, withdrawn and outwardly a little grumpy. However they are dealing with very similar emotions but displaying them in markedly different ways. It is perhaps useful for young readers to see these differing responses as it may help them empathise with others more easily. The conversations between the children ring true and show an understanding of behaviour and attitudes which adds to the depiction of the children’s relationships with each other and with the adults in the story.

Benji, his new friend the wonderful, wise cracking Murdy McCurdy and their loyal companion, Mr Dog, team up to help Uncle Hamish and their schemes are so outlandish but full of childhood innocence that even an adult reader is willing them on to success. There are many moments of hilarity including poor Mr Dog bearing the indignity of a green leotard with stoicism and the trio of roller skating girls made me smile too. Ultimately the sensible Stanley is drawn into their plans and also into revealing some of his inner feelings to young Benji. The story gradually alters from madcap adventure into a wise and kind look at how families, especially children, can learn to cope with grief and loss.

As adults it can be tempting to protect children from the more distressing aspects of life, we do not wish to expose them to unnecessary unhappiness. However books have an important role in providing children with the tools to help them deal with the emotional experiences they may experience in life in a safe way. Stories for children, especially when they are exploring difficult themes, need to have if not a happy ending at least a hopeful one. In Jenny Pearson’s capable hands the heartache of grief is balanced with humour and a huge amount of hope.

The Boy Who Made Monsters is published on 6th July and is highly recommended. The finished version, unlike my proof copy, will have illustrations by Katie Kear and I am looking forward to seeing them too. Many thanks to Fritha Lindqvist and Usborne Books for my review copy.

You may also enjoy one of Jenny’s earlier books such as The Incredible Record Smashers or Operation Nativity both of which I can also highly recommend.

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Reading Matters – children’s book news

Posted on June 17, 2023 by alibrarylady

Welcome to this week’s look at what has been happening in the world of children’s books.

What I’m reading…

Last week I reviewed a selection of new books for babies and toddlers and this week another lovely one arrived on my doorstep courtesy of Alanna Max Publishers. Lenny Has Lunch by Ken Wilson-Max is a delightful celebration of early experiences and those everyday routines that become precious when you look back on them later. Another book for babies from this publisher that’s just right. The inclusion of the familiar, the nursery rhyme, the bond between father and child and clever use of vocabulary and repetition ensure Lenny Has Lunch will be shared again and again. Fabia Turner has written an excellent review on the Jericho Prize website that tells you more.

I Am Lenny Brown by Dan Freedman illustrated by Kajsa Hallström was published on 8th June by Puffin Books which you may remember was Empathy Day. It would not surprise me in the least to see this thoughtful, kind story feature in future Read For Empathy collections. Lenny is 8 years and doesn’t talk to anyone other than his Mum and his pet dog, Rocky. When Lenny has to move to a new school it feels like the end of the world to him and he knows he will struggle and find it hard to make new friends. Lenny is an endearing character and his courage as he tries to fit in and find his voice will inspire other children. It is also heartening to see the importance of a supportive teacher included within this book and there is emphasis on making an effort to understand others who may be a little different. However this never feels like an ‘issues book’ and the presentation style and illustrations add to its appeal as does the sport element. A children’s book that adults will rate and children will enjoy.

News, articles and resources…

Diverse Libraries webinar 3 – Patrick Ness: Handling difficult conversations around representation in children’s literature – in the last of the National Literacy Trust’s 2023 Diverse Libraries free webinar series multi award-winning author Patrick Ness will explore why it’s important that children can continue to access books which confront complex matters. Librarian Barbara Band will open the webinar with an exploration of how best to address the representation of neurodiversity in conversations about children’s literature. The event takes place on Tuesday 20th June 4.00-5.15pm and registration details can be found via the link above.

Refugee Week 2023 Resources – last minute reminder of these excellent resources from the Literacy Trust and author Tom Palmer freely available for schools to mark Refugee Week which starts on Monday 19th June.

The Winners of the Children’s Book Award 2023 – The winners of the Children’s Book Award were announced last weekend in a special event held at the CLPE Library in London. There is a full write up giving details of the winning books, the award itself and the shortlisted books on the Federation of Children’s Book Groups website above and you can watch a recording of the ceremony here.

Book Blast with Nikki Gamble June 2023 – if you missed this event live last weekend it is now available to watch via Nikki’s Book Channel on YouTube, well worth subscribing to if you haven’t already. This is the first of two for June, as there are so many books being published at the moment, and focuses on non-fiction. We have another edition to look forward to later in the month concentrating on fiction and picturebooks.

Marcus Rashford Book Club – another great initiative from the National Literacy Trust, this Book Club aims to encourage and nurture a love of reading in children and get free books to the children who need them the most. The summer 2023 Book Club choice is The Breakfast Club Adventures: The Ghoul in the School and the Trust have partnered with the publisher Macmillan Children’s Books to create exclusive materials accompanying the book suitable for use with pupils aged 8 to 11 – KS2: Years 4, 5 and 6, or P5 and P6 (Scotland), and are free for teachers to download and use. Children don’t have to have a copy of the book to join in as many of the activities relate to the first chapter which is included in the pack.

How To Read a Picture Book – guest blog on the Just Imagine website from Shelley Jackson, Associate Professor and Course Leader for the MA in Children’s Book Illustration at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) in which she looks at three recent Klaus Flugge award winners, Pierre’s New Hair by Joseph Namara Hollis (2022), Gustavo the Shy Ghost by Flavia Z. Drago (2021), and When Sadness Comes to Call by Eva Eland (2020) and discusses some of the techniques used by illustrators.

A secret world, footballing fun and tasty adventures by various authors – children’s book reviews – Pam Norfolk regularly reviews children’s books for the Lancashire Post and this great selection features something suitable for a wide age range and differing tastes. Peggy Little-Legs by Pip Jones and Paula Bowles, a Little Gem from Barrington Stoke, is on its way to my 6 year old assistant reviewer and I can confirm that it’s a ‘doggie delight’ for age 5+.

Win all 16 books from the Storytime Prize longlist – To celebrate the success of the BookTrust Storytime Prize highlighting the best books to share with those aged 0-5, this year, Book Trust are giving you a chance to win a copy of all 16 longlisted books of your very own. There are a great variety of titles on this year’s longlist, from family tales like Zeki Rise and Shine to dinosaur adventures with Don’t Let Diplodocus Draw. This longlist has been chosen by staff, parents, carers and children through voting at libraries and schools and represents some of the best children’s books of recent years.

UKLA Literacy School Of The Year 2023 – UKLA has announced that the winner of the 2023 UKLA Literacy School of the Year is Elmhurst Primary School in Newham, London. The write up of all that this school has done to warrant this award is extremely impressive. “Everyone in the school – children and staff – speaks knowledgably about and delights in books.” Many congratulations to everyone involved.

The big idea: do we need to dismantle the literary canon? – Jeffrey Boakye’s article in the Guardian raises many important points and will no doubt prompt discussion among educators. “There are immediate and urgent conversations to be had about the overlapping issues of social justice, identity politics, geopolitics and sustainability, and the curriculum can be a starting point for them.”

Books with neuro-divergent characters mark new chapter for publishers – article by Amelia Hill in the Guardian quoting children’s authors Elle McNicol and Lizzie Huxley-Jones Tom Purser, head of guidance, volunteering and campaigns at the National Autistic Society.

Books in Translation – an excellent article by Denise Reed, founder of Librarians in Independent Prep Schools in South East England (LIPSSEE), on the importance and value of children’s books in translation. She has included a range of helpful links and sources of information that will be useful to anyone interested in this subject.

The YA Book Prize Shortlist – congratulations to all the authors and publishers on the YABookPrize 2023 shortlist which was announced this week. Four first-time writers appear on this year’s shortlist for the YA Book Prize, with the winner once again to be revealed at a ceremony at August’s Edinburgh International Book Festival.

Finalists for the 2023 Primary and Secondary School Librarian of the Year – In schools all over the UK, dedicated staff are working hard to bring reading and learning alive for pupils. The SLA School Librarian of the Year Award recognises the best of the excellent work that is carried out in school libraries every day. Huge congratulations to all the wonderful finalists. Special congratulations to Sally Hammerton for whom I’m personally delighted!

Finally, some book reviews that caught my eye this week…

The Thing at 52 by Ross Montgomery and Richard Johnson – this new picture book due out in July about friendship and community sounds lovely and the cover is beautiful. Find out more in Kate Heap’s review.

The Lovely Dark by Matthew Fox – several people whose opinions I trust have recently recommended this book to me. This thoughtful review by Nicki Cleveland is the one that convinced me I need to read it. Published by Hachette next month.

Bite Risk – S.J. Wills – this first in a new series for teens has been receiving a great deal of attention this week. Rich Simpson hosts the author in a Q&A on his blog that will interest fans of horror. Rich describes the book as “perfect for fans of Stranger Things, Jennifer Killick, Point Horror etc.” so will probably be popular!

That’s everything for this week and I hope you have have a lovely weekend however you are spending it.

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