It’s The Journey Not the Destination written by Carl Honoré, illustrated by Kevin and Kristen Howdeshell

Posted on November 11, 2022 by alibrarylady

I am delighted to be participating in the blog tour to mark National Non-Fiction November, the annual celebration organised by the Federation of Children’s Book Groups highlighting the books that provide information and facts for eager readers.

One of the joys of nonfiction books for children is not only that readers learn as they read but they can also experience, albeit through their imagination, other parts of the world, other peoples and important places without leaving home. It’s the Journey Not the Destination encourages children to read forty slow adventures undertaken by boat, bike, foot and train. The slower pace of these explorations will inspire children to take their time and notice the details that make places unique and special.

The book is divided into four sections covering each mode of transport with a world map depicting the locations of the different journeys and the places visited on each route. Each section then takes the reader on an exploration, slowly savouring the landscape, the wildlife, the vegetation and the smells and sounds associated with each place. The muted colours and slightly retro feel of the illustrations fit the gentle pace of the text perfectly. This, just like the journeys themselves, is a book to read slowly and carefully.

I was tempted by several of the walks including the Way of St James to the city of Santiago de Compostela in Spain and closer to home, the Great Stones Way in the south of England. The cycle routes take the reader along the famous Silk Road, part of The Marvin Braude Bike Trail in Los Angeles and through the ruins of Angkor in Cambodia and many other fascinating places. The canal boat trip through Amsterdam brought back happy childhood memories for me and I would love to travel down the Danube. Kayaking in the Komodo National Park I may leave for the more adventurous! A stream train ride through the Scottish Highlands is now on my wish list too. The range of journeys takes in the more familiar, alongside the more unusual and this combination is a great balance. This would be a wonderful book for families to share prompting discussion about places already visited and those that have caught the imagination of the reader. However it would also work well in the classroom to support the teaching of geography and would definitely be an excellent addition to the primary school library.

The author has included key facts and observations that satisfy a child’s curiosity and give a taste of each country or place and importantly the people who live there too. The extra ‘12 Ways to Travel Slow’ at the end of the book are both timely and wise. It’s the Journey Not the Destination is published by Magic Cat Publishing and you may like to visit their website for a browse of their other publications too.

Thank you to the Federation of Children’s Book Groups (FCBG) for asking me to take part in the events this month and also to the publisher Magic Cat for providing a copy of the book for review.

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The Chestnut Roaster by Eve McDonnell illustrations by Ewa Beniak- Haremska

Posted on November 6, 2022 by alibrarylady

The Chestnut Roaster is an utterly mesmerising read. It is a story of good versus evil, imaginative and original, carrying the reader along in an adventure that defies labelling. Historical fiction and fantasy combine to create something refreshingly different and memorable.

Cover by Holly Ovenden

Set in Paris in 1888 during the period known as the ‘Belle Epoque’ or ‘beautiful era’ the story opens at a busy street corner where a tiny girl stands at her chestnut roaster. Piaf, named after the sparrow she resembles, is approached by a mysterious, sinister stranger who claims to know her. Piaf is equally sure that he does not. She is confident in this assertion as she is able to remember everything. Every small detail since the day she was born twelve years ago on All Fools’ Day is lodged in her memory. This could be a blessing or a curse but is key to the thrilling adventure that then unfolds.

What an opening this is! We are instantly part of Paris, the sights, the sounds, the smells and the feel of the city are conveyed superbly in the writing and with no preamble we have already met our wonderful lead character and the villain who will together dominate the book. Piaf soon discovers that everyone on Paris has forgotten the entire last year including the disappearance of several gifted children. Piaf and her twin brother Luc are quickly drawn into a dangerous journey through the streets of the city and then into the depths of the underground tunnels, the Catacombs, in an effort to defeat the memory thief and find the lost children.

The exploration of memory is fascinating as we watch the twins, the girl with the ability to remember everything and the boy who has lost his memories of all that has gone before. Eve McDonnell was inspired by her research into the phenomenon known as hypothymesia, an extremely rare condition where people are able to relive every life event in great detail. Piaf copes with this by distraction techniques such as fidgeting and this is incorporated into the story realistically. She is a wonderful character carrying the responsibility she bears with a strength and determination that belies her tiny size. As the story progresses she grows in confidence and is a thoughtful role model for children in many ways.

The adventure is thrilling with moments of drama and tension and the writing intensifies the experience. As Piaf and Luc crawl through dark tunnels the reader feels the sense of claustrophobia and fear of the unknown alongside the children. I particularly liked the authentic ‘French feel’ created by the author. The French words used occasionally throughout, the dual language chapter headings and the locations plus of course the references to food all create a realistic sense of place. The historic references together with the interesting afterword by the author provide a background to the story that many children will learn from.

The plot weaves its way through the underground tunnels, including some distinctive characters along the way such as Madame Legrand and Bertie Pufont. The bond between brother and sister, Piaf and Luc is touching in its intensity despite the difficulties caused by Luc’s loss of memory and these two become characters we care about. There are times when an enthralling adventure can culminate in a too speedy, neat or predictable ending but Eve Mc Donnell provides a thoughtful and satisfying conclusion.

It is impossible to write a review of this dramatic and intense adventure without mentioning the wonderful, atmospheric double page illustrations by Ewa Beniak-Haremska as they so perfectly fit the story. The striking cover by Holly Ovenden completes an excellent package.

The Chestnut Roaster was published by Everything With Words on 27th October and I should like to thank Mikka Haugaard for my review copy.

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Reading Matters – children’s book news

Posted on November 5, 2022 by alibrarylady

Welcome to this week’s look at what has been happening in the world of children’s books. This week marked the start of National Non-Fiction November so there are several mentions of that in this round up. Also some great events and interesting articles from children’s literature guru Nikki Gamble. Thank you to all the generous people who write the articles and create the resources and events I share on here each week.

What I’m reading…

This week I managed to catch up a little with my picture book pile and reviewed my pick of the new picture books for children. They include a range of subjects including penguin peril, Christmas compromises and perfect pets and presents. Some lovely books to explore and share.

This week saw the start of National Non Fiction November and I am pleased to be taking part in the blog review tour organised by the Federation of Children’s Book Groups to mark the occasion. This week I have read It’s the Journey Not the Destination in readiness for my post next Friday and thoroughly enjoyed exploring the world at a gentle pace. Please do look out for the other reviews over the coming days and perhaps catch up with any you have missed.

Lastly, thanks to The Chestnut Roaster by Eve McDonell I have spent the last few days lost in nineteenth century Paris. This is a captivating read. The evocative writing, the lavish illustrations by Ewa Beniak-Haremska and the originality combine in a novel both unexpected and enjoyable. I’ve nearly finished and am hoping the loathsome villain gets his comeuppance!

News, articles and resources…

Love My Books October Newsletter – this latest newsletter is excellent and full of useful and interesting articles including Nikki Gamble on young fiction for newly independent readers, the new book in focus The King Who Banned the Dark by Emily Haworth Booth, new activity pages for picture books such as The Comet and The Littlest Yak and lots more. It’s well worth exploring both the newsletter and the helpful website.

No Shelf Control Newsletter – Dean Boddington’s monthly newsletters are great for both teachers and parents and the latest issue includes a Q&A with Natasha Hastings and some suggestions for Christmas books. The newsletters can be downloaded from Dean’s blog linked above.

The Reader Teacher October 2022 Monthly Must Reads – Scott Evans’ pick of the last month includes the superb Tyger by SF Said which is going to take some beating as my book of the year and Timid by Harry Woodgate a picture book that is high on my shopping list.

Where the Poppies Now Grow by Hilary Robinson – this is a thoughtful guest post by author Hilary Robinson on the Federation of Children’s Book Groups website. She writes about the inspiration for this poignant picture book so beautifully illustrated by Martin Impey. I can wholeheartedly recommend this book as one to share with children to mark Remembrance Day and the whole series by this duo are, I think, books that should be in every primary school library.

A Golden Age of Nonfiction? Nikki Gamble for Just Imagine – as we enter National Nonfiction November Nikki’s excellent article reflects on the current state of nonfiction publishing. Are we in a Golden Age? Or are there simply too many books, making it hard for the best to stand out from the crowd? This is a valuable article to keep as a reference when selecting information books for the school library or classroom in particular. Thank you, Nikki for this insightful piece which has given me a lot to think about.

MRS NOAH’S SONG: An interview with James Mayhew – the first two picture books featuring Mrs Noah are dear to me, she’s a wonderful character and the art by James Mayhew and text by Jackie Morris working perfectly together. This is a enlightening interview with James on the Reading Realm which I enjoyed very much and hope you do too.

Children’s books: a feast of sweet and spooky stories for autumn – Sarah Webb has reviewed a great selection of children’s books for the Independent.ie from colourful picture books that will delight your little ones, to bold and ambitious adventure stories your teens will love.

Book Trust: New Children’s Books We Love for November – Whether they’re a teeny toddler or a very particular teen the BookTrust team have selected a book to tempt them. Sorted in approximate age categories the titles include a couple of my recent favourite picture books, Zeki Rise and Shine and My Rhinoceros plus The Chestnut Roaster, my current read which I’m thoroughly enjoying.

The Reader Teacher: November 2022 Children’s Books I’m Most Excited About – this monthly preview video produced by Scott Evans is good for providing a taste of what to look forward over the coming month and could be shared in school and with parents.

HFL Education: Bring language to life – be more aardvark – In this blog Jane Andrews delves into the interconnectivity between reading and writing, and explores strategies for bringing language learning to life in joyful ways that develop reading for pleasure. An interesting article from which I learned a lot.

Resist & World Ballet Day ~ Guest Post by Tom Palmer – on 2nd November, World Ballet Day, Kate Heap welcomed award winning author Tom Palmer to her blog to talk about the significant part dance played in Edda’s story told in his WW2 novel, Resist.

Nikki Gamble’s Book Blast for November – Nikki’s brilliant previews of the best of the children’s books being published each month are well worth watching. This month’s takes place on Sunday 7th November. There will be the usual give-away to tempt you too! Available for attendees until 11th November midday.

An evening with Timothee de Fombelle and Sarah Ardizzone – Timothee and his English translator, Sarah Ardizzone, will be in conversation with Nikki Gamble. They will be talking about their latest collaboration, Swallow in Winter, and more generally, the importance of translation and different approaches to translating a literary text. It is a free event, but places need to be reserved via Eventbrite via the link above.

An Audience with…Beverley Naidoo – at the time of writing there are still single places available for this event taking place on Friday 11th November at 7pm. The format includes a discussion chaired by Nikki Gamble, and audience members are invited to ask questions. More information including booking details can be found via the link.

The Literacy Trust: National Non-Fiction November – an excellent overview to mark this month’s focus on non-fiction. You can read the Literacy Trust’s recent report on the effect of reading non-fiction and what our young non-fiction readers care about. There are also teaching resources and links to useful websites plus information about a free live online event on ‘Writing for the planet with National Geographic Kids journalist Tim Herbert’, for pupils aged 7-11.

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

Ballet Kids by Holly Sterling – to mark World Ballet Day this week Jill Bennett shared a lovely review of a book I didn’t know of but think sounds appealing. “In her inclusive illustrations, Holly Sterling captures that magic and the sheer joy of the young dancers both in their class and as they perform the winter show.”

Leila and the Blue Fox by Kiran Millwood Hargrave and Tom De Freston – I thought Julia and the Shark was an original and thoughtful book so have been looking forward to finding out more about this couple’s new publication. Tom Griffiths’ review has whetted my appetite still further.

The Agency For Scandal by Laura Wood – publishing in January 2023 I do love the sound of this book, the new historical YA title from Laura Wood. “Danger, seduction and characters who are entirely brilliant make this a perfect page turner.” is how Erin Hamilton describes it in her review. Well, roll on January!

That’s everything for this week. Happy reading!

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Pick of the New Picture Books for Children

Posted on November 1, 2022 by alibrarylady

Over the last month there have been many picture books published and I would like to share just some of them with you here.

My Rhinoceros by Jon Agee (Scallywag Press)

How can you resist a picture book that has on its back cover a quote from Maurice Sendak describing it as ‘a genuine masterpiece.’ It’s also quite difficult to know how to follow that in my review! My Rhinoceros is witty, refreshingly different and full of surprises. When a small boy buys a rhinoceros at the Exotic Pets shop he has little idea what to expect. Initially he is a bit disappointed with his new pet. He won’t chase a ball, or a stick; he won’t roll over, he doesn’t really do anything. He does actually wear an expression of superior disdain in Agee’s illustrations. A handy rhinoceros expert tells the child that rhinos only do two things: pop balloons and poke holes in kites. However the small pet owner soon discovers that his rhinoceros wants to be a bit different.

This has grown on me with each reading. The wry humour, the expressions in the illustrations, and the clever build up to the finale all add up to a refreshing and enjoyable read. This is quirky but definitely good fun.

Well Done Mummy Penguin by Chris Haughton (Walker Books)

When Mummy Penguin sets off to find a fishy dinner for her family she encounters setbacks galore but overcomes each of them because Mummy, thank goodness, is good at everything. Watched by baby penguin and his daddy we observe Mummy’s adventures and the mild peril she faces on the way. The illustrations are deceptively simple yet Chris Haughton manages to convey numerous emotions, particularly through the penguins’ eyes. The use of shades of blue to portray the icy Antarctic landscape work well and the vibrant orange on the beaks and breasts of the adult penguins stand out beautifully.

This joyful celebration of mothers contains all the special elements that ensure picture books by Chris Haughton always work perfectly when read aloud. Another book in the tradition of Oh No, George! and Shh! We Have a Plan, this delightful story encourages little ones to participate through the repeated phrases, the elements of the story so cleverly conveyed in the illustrations and the perfect ending that invites another story. I simply love this book and think young children will do too.

The Perfect Gift by Alan Durant and Marian Vafaeian (Tiny Owl)

This gentle story of kindness and friendship introduces young children to the idea of generosity through friendship, hospitality and kindness. Rabbit is kindhearted and caring and loved by all the other animals. When the queen has a baby all the animals are off to celebrate the new arrival at the party but poor Rabbit can’t find a gift that is quite right for the occasion. Several of her friends offer to hare their presents but Rabbit persists in her quest for something just right. Eventually she has to go empty handed but on her arrival at the party she discovers that she had the perfect gift all along.

The subtle illustrations combine well with the kind and thoughtful text and the overall look of the book is one of comfort and light. The story would be excellent for prompting discussion about the relative value of ‘gifts’ and that sometimes the important things are not ‘things’ at all but the offering of friendship and care. This would be a thoughtful book to share in the run up to Christmas for that reason.

We Disagree About This Tree by Ross Collins (Nosy Crow)

Last but definitely not least the squabbling duo return in this funny and enjoyable picture book perfect for Christmas. Although Bear and Mouse have agreed to some sort of truce and are now living together in relative harmony Christmas preparations can prove testing for the best of relationships and our two friends are no exception. As they come to decorate their tree one wants dazzling lights and the other want gigantic baubles. Should there be tinsel or candles? It looks doubtful they will ever agree. Brilliant, vibrant illustrations full of humour and expression give this lovely book an instant appeal and the bouncy text is great to read aloud. Beneath the fun and the smiles this happy book also explores the importance of learning to compromise with others. Great fun and no doubt a book that will be shared over many Christmases in the future.

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Reading Matters – children’s book news

Posted on October 29, 2022 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 mentioned The Haunted Hills by Berlie Doherty, an emotional story told with an understanding of human nature and of our native landscape and folklore. I have attempted to convey its impact in my review. A wonderful book and highly recommended for readers of about 11+.

The Flower Boy by Keith Campion features a character, eleven year old James, with whom many young readers will probably identify. A quiet child who feels a little different to his classmates James finds it difficult to make friends and as the end of his time at primary school approaches his worries mount. This is a story incorporating many themes including dementia, local history and transition to secondary school but it highlights the importance of acceptance and kindness to others. I particularly liked the depiction of friendship across the generations and the caring attitude of James’s teachers. This would be a reassuring read for children of a similar age to James.

News, articles and resources…

Remembrance Day Free Resources for Schools from Author Tom Palmer – A wealth of free Remembrance Day resources for schools are now available for schools on Tom Palmer’s brilliant and extremely helpful website. These include: video assembly for 2022 (Commonwealth topic). Posters.Stories. Certificates. Black out poetry. Videos on location from the battlefields. And lots more. Plenty to explore before Remembrance Day on 11th November.

National Non-Fiction November – a reminder that this annual celebration of information books for children organised by the Federation of Children’s Book Groups starts next week. The whole month celebrates all those readers that have a passion for information and facts and attempts to bring non fiction celebration in line with those of fiction. The theme this year is communication and there are events, a blog tour, suggested book lists, a competition and much more to look forward to. Please check out the website linked above for details.

Children’s and teens roundup: the best new picture books and novels – this month’s selection from Imogen Russell Williams for the Guardian includes a pet rhinoceros; a young guide to emotions; an intrepid aviator; and a YA debut to please Buffy fans. I’ve also added Nicola Penfold’s new novel to my wish list.

Jamie Oliver and Geri Halliwell-Horner become the latest celebrities to announce children’s books – this article in the Guardian about the arrival of more ‘celebrity children’s books’ in shops around the country includes contributions from Piers Torday and literary agent Alice Sutherland-Hawes.

The Diverse Book Awards Winners 2022 – this article in Books for Keeps provides full details of both the winners and the runners up in both the Children’s and YA categories.

Recreational reading. Reading for learning. Reading for life. – an interesting article by School Library Consultant, Elizabeth Hutchinson that includes a link to a podcast of the recent discussion on this subject.

Astrid Lingdren Memorial Award 2023 Nominations – Have a look through the complete list of nominees for the 2023 award—a full 251 names from 64 countries including some of the world’s foremost creators of literature for children and young people, as well as reading promoters.

Olga da Polga: Paddington Bear author’s much-loved guinea pig comes to the small screen – Michael Bond’s 1971 creation – inspired by his daughter’s pet – is starring in a new CBeebies series this autumn.

Supporting reading for children with ADHD – Rachel Varney from the ADHD Foundation shares some useful tactics for helping children with ADHD enjoy reading.

Journeying Back: A Conversation with Catherine Johnson – In an online event hosted by Listen to This Story! on Thursday 3rd November 6pm – 7pm, author Catherine Johnson (Freedom 2018; A Nest of Vipers 1999) will read from her latest book, Journey Back to Freedom: The Olaudah Equiano Story (2022) and discuss aspects of British history with Professor Karen Sands-O’Connor.

Evaristo and Cadwalladr among 2022 CILIP Honorary Fellowships – although not featured in the headline for this article I was delighted to read that Caroline Roche, Chair of the CILIP School Libraries Group since 2017 and co-Chair of the Great School Libraries campaign since 2020 has been rewarded for the tireless work she has done for so long advocating for school librarians. Congratulations and thank you, Caroline.

Waterstones Book of the Year 2022 – now in its tenth year the 2022 award shortlist features a middle grade title, Skandar and the Unicorn Thief by A.F. Steadman and Heartstopper vol 1 by Alice Oseman (the first graphic novel to make it onto a Waterstones Book of the Year shortlist).

The Three Rs by Roy James for Just Imagine – not the traditional three Rs but reduce, re-use and recycle. In this interesting and informative article Roy suggests titles both fiction and non-fiction on this subject for children with an emphasis on reducing our impact on the environment.

Open University Reading For Pleasure Case Study: Staff Book Club – Have you ever thought about setting up a staff book club? Year 6 teacher and reading lead Helen Morgan from the South West London TRG at St Mary’s University outlines how she set up a ‘Staff Book Club’ in this example of RfP practice.

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

Non-fiction to Make You Think – if you are looking for information books to share during Non Fiction November this selection reviewed by Kate Heap would be an excellent place to start. They cover subjects including space, habitats, climate change.

How To Be More Hedgehog by Anne Marie Conway Illustrated by Danielle Dey – I like the sound of this book very much and think it would be a valuable addition to primary school libraries. The story features a protagonist with a stammer and as Jayne Truran in her positive review says, “We could all learn a lot from this little gem of a story.”

Pizazz Vs Everyone by Sophy Henn – I like the sound of this latest instalment in this highly illustrated, comic strip style series featuring a super hero with wide appeal. In her review Nicki Cleveland says, “This would make for a fantastic class read…with massive scope for discussion around personal strengths, making good choices and being kind to yourself.”

The Boy Lost in the Maze by Joseph Coelho illustrated by Kate Milner – this new verse novel by our Children’s Laureate blends Greek myth with contemporary quest and follows his successful novel, The Girl Who Became a Tree. Nick Swarbrick’s review for Just Imagine says “this new work is even better.”

That’s everything for this week. Happy reading!

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The Haunted Hills by Berlie Doherty

Posted on October 26, 2022 by alibrarylady

The Haunted Hills is an atmospheric story exploring childhood friendship, loss, grief and guilt set in a landscape that adds much to this multi-layered and thoughtful book.

Cover illustration by Tamsin Rosewell

When we meet Carl he and his parents have recently arrived at a lonely cottage in the Peak District and it soon becomes apparent to the reader that this is not a typical family holiday. Carl is recovering from a personal tragedy and his mum and dad have brought him away in the hope that a period away from home and the constant reminders will enable him to recover. However local stories of a ghostly local lad soon have an effect on Carl with the losses of the past quickly becoming entwined with his own loss and he becomes enveloped in his sadness and guilt. The reader accompanies this young boy as he struggles to learn how to cope.

I found this an emotional read as the characters had a relatable quality and a depth that increased my engagement with the story. As Carl deals with the aftermath of the death of his best friend, Jack, in an accident it is clear that this loss is also felt by Jack’s parents. Their primary concern however is the impact this tragedy has had on Carl and the attempts by them to help their troubled son are touching. As an adult reader I empathised with their desperation to make things better for him and their frustration at their own inadequacy to do so. April, the girl who works at the neighbouring farm, is an interesting and slightly elusive character yet she has an important role in Carl’s stay in the Peaks.

It is Berlie Doherty’s own knowledge and love of the local landscape and folklore that gives this story its greater depth. The brooding scenery around the cottage and the nearby farm, the stories of Joseph, the lost lad, and his dog, combine with Carl’s own sense of desolation to give this story a haunting and atmospheric air. The mist, the darkness and the rugged mountains perfectly fit the mood of the characters and their personal difficulties.

The Haunted Hills is a multilayered tale full of emotion. It is an exploration of grief and loss and its impact on our lives yet told with a touching understanding of human nature and our capacity both for healing and for resilience.

The Haunted Hills was published on 6th October by Uclan Publishing and I should like to thank the publishers for my advance proof copy. The finished copy has a stunning cover and artwork by Tamsin Rosewell.

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Reading Matters – children’s book news

Posted on October 22, 2022 by alibrarylady

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

What I’m reading…

The Last Post by Keith Campion is a slender book that belies its emotional impact. Told in a series of letters between father and son this story of life in the trenches in World War 1 is both deeply poignant and important. The author, a primary teacher, understands how to provide hope to his young readers yet still conveys the horror and waste of war effectively. This would be perfect to share in the classroom to mark Remembrance Day and the suggested activities and discussion ideas at the end of the book are an added bonus. A little gem that I would highly recommend for both upper KS2 and KS3.

The Haunted Hills is an atmospheric story exploring childhood friendship, loss, grief and guilt set in a landscape that adds much to this multi-layered and thoughtful book. I found this an emotional read as the characters had a relatable quality and a depth that increased my engagement with the story. Its links to folklore were written with care and an obvious love and knowledge of the local area. I will try to write a more detailed review over the next few days.

Cover illustration by Tamsin Rosewall

News, articles and resources…

PeriodiCOOL by Roy James – I’m very much enjoying Roy’s regular blogposts for Just Imagine and this one explores the long-standing popularity of magazines and comics for children. His recommendations are well worth following up.

Q&A With Author Emma Carroll – school librarian Emma Suffield finds out about Emma’s writing process, favourite books and more in this latest in her series of interviews with children’s authors.

Book Trust Writer-Illustrator in Residence Nick Sharratt launches new competition – children are invited to use their imagination to ‘Invent your own Animal’. Entries should take the form of a picture, showing just what your creature looks like. It could be a drawing, a painting, a collage… any kind of artwork. There are three age categories and the closing date for entries is 11pm on Friday 30 December, 2022.

Picture books for children – reviews – Imogen Carter’s latest selection for the Guardian includes a magical zebra, fat cats in lockdown and a bus-riding chipmunk.

Halloween Fright Night with author Serena Patel – Authors Aloud UK & Usborne Books invite you to join author Serena Patel for a spooky Halloween event to celebrate publication of Fright Night, her new book in the Anisha, Accidental Detective series. Suitable for Years 3,4,5. October 31st 10:00 AM. Full details and how to register via the link.

Book Clubs in Schools: Q&A with Alex Wheatle and Jason Reynolds – this interview which took place in the summer is free for schools to watch until 11th November if you subscribe to Book Clubs in Schools newsletter via the link above. After that date it will be available to subscribing member schools. You can find out more about the scheme on their website.

2023 Branford Boase Award Judging Panel Announced – this week the organisers of this award that rewards the most promising new authors and their editors announced that the judges of the next award will be Maisie Chan, winner of this year’s award, Sajeda Amir, an English teacher and KS3 coordinator, Darren Matthews a Primary Advisory Teacher at the Centre for Literacy in Primary Education, Joanne Owen, a writer, reviewer and workshop presenter and Julia Eccleshare, a regular contributor to Radio 4’s Front Row and Open Book programmes and children’s director of the Hay Festival.

How to use books to explore worries about siblings – in this article for Book Trust Jion Sheibani, author of The Worries series, explains how parents can use reading and drawing to help children articulate their feelings about anything.

Toby Jones, Harriet Walter and Noah Alexander to star in The Dark Is Rising from the BBC World Service – Robert MacFarlane as adapted Susan Cooper’s classic novel, The Dark Is Rising, for a 12-part audio drama/podcast on the BBC World Service in December. This should be a Christmas treat. It is the first time in 25 years that Cooper’s cult 1973 book – which has sold millions of copies worldwide – has been dramatised for radio and podcast by the BBC.

Books for Topics Book List: Politics and Democracy – it’s impossible to avoid the subject of politics in the media at the moment and if children are asking questions this helpful list of books on the subject may be a good place to start.

The World Cup Reading Challenge – LIVE – taking place on 18th November 10.30 – 11.00am this online event is ideal to share with pupils aged 7 to 11 (Years 3, 4, 5 and 6). Full details of the event, the related book lists and how to register are all available on the Literacy Trust website link above.

An Post Irish Book Awards Shortlist 2022 – The shortlist for the An Post Irish Book Awards 2022 features a diverse mix of exceptional writing from new and established writers across 18 categories, including, Children’s Junior, Children’s Senior, and Teen and Young Adult

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

Cress Watercress By Gregory Maguire & David Litchfiel – any book illustrated by David Lichfield draws my attention. Bruna De Luca in her review on My Book Corner describes it as , “At times humorous and always touching, this story manages to be both timeless and modern, and would make a wonderful gift for fans of Charlotte’s Web and Wind In The Willows.” Definitely one for my list.

Edie and the Flits in Paris by Kate Wilkinson, illustrated by Joe Berger – I have been on the lookout for illustrated fiction that may appeal to the younger end of the ‘middle grade’ audience and for those who find longer books a bit daunting and this sounds just right. Veronica Price sums it up in her review: I cannot recommend this story highly enough for anyone of 8+…With half-term arriving, put this story into the hands of a young reader and let them travel by book this holiday period!

The Butterfly Club: The Mummy’s Curse by M A Bennett – a review with added extras! Erin Hamilton includes her own questions for the author of this book, second in the series, plus questions from Year 5 at Cliff Lane Primary School and a link to discussion notes to use in the classroom.

The Vanishing of Aveline Jones by Phil Hickes & Keith Robinson – this spooky story is perfectly timed for Halloween and dark winter evenings. In her review Kate Heap says, “This is truly creepy book. Expect shivers and goosebumps as you follow Aveline into a world of tricksters, traps and torture.”

That’s everything for this week and I do hope that it’s helpful to you. Wishing a happy half term break to those who are on holiday at the moment.

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Reading Matters – children’s book news

Posted on October 15, 2022 by alibrarylady

Welcome to this week’s look at what has been happening in the world of children’s books recently. Before we move on to the links and reviews I wanted to mention the new best practice guide produced by CILIP with funding from Martin Lewis. Started as a public library initiative, CILIP hopes it will be helpful to any organisation looking to set up warm and safe spaces this winter. You can view an article about this initiative and download the guide here.

What I’m reading…

The highly anticipated new novel Tyger by SF Said illustrated by Dave McKean was published earlier this month and last weekend I devoted some time to a slow read, savouring every page. There’s been a lot of chatter about this story and I’m delighted to agree with all the positive comments I have read recently. This is a wonderful book, a book that highlights why children’s books matter so much. It draws children in, it inspires and encourages whilst also introducing them to ideas and literary references that will stay with them into adulthood. I tried to do justice to it in my review which I think avoids spoilers too.

The Zeki series of books published by Alanna Max are, I think, the perfect first books to share with babies and toddlers. This month sees the arrival of Zeki Rise and Shine and Zeki Sleep Tight created by Anna McQuin and Ruth Hearson. They encompass the family rituals familiar to many and are wonderful for encouraging early learning and talk too. You can find out more in my reviews here.

News, articles and resources…

Jake Hayes’ Interview with SF Said – this is a fascinating interview providing an insight into the writing of Tyger by this award winning author. I found learning about the influences and links added to my understanding and appreciation of this remarkable book.

Nikki Gamble’s Book Blast For October– if you missed this month’s edition a recording is now available for you to watch. Nikki’s selections are always worth exploring.

Oliver Jeffers grew up in Belfast hating violence. Now he wants children to see how futile it is – Donna Ferguson interviews Oliver Jeffers for the Guardian and discusses his childhood in Belfast and his hopes for his new picturebook, Meanwhile Back on Earth.

The Farshore Reading For Pleasure 2022 Award Winners – The Farshore Reading for Pleasure Teacher Awards 2022, in association with The Open University and the UK Literacy Association (UKLA), celebrate how teachers (and a school librarian!) have found innovative ways to inspire reading for pleasure in the classroom. You can view the award winning initiatives via the link above.

Top Texts for October 2022 – Alice Visser-Furay has selected powerful texts for Secondary for the Open University Reading for Pleasure website. All three of the books chosen by Alice are published by Barrington Stoke and having read them too I think they have a broad appeal.

Celebrating Black British History – this is a thoughtful blog post by Rickella Griffiths for HFL Education. Her comment, “With the new texts that are being published, it’s clear that we are in a period of transformation. It brings me so much joy to witness the shift from a history that focused on past struggles to one that honours achievements.” is a hopeful and optimistic one.

Beyond Books: One Home with Hiba Noor Khan – if you are local to Birmingham this event sounds excellent. Hiba will take children and families on a glorious journey across the globe to meet some of the eighteen inspiring young activists from One Home who are taking a stand against climate change. October 26th at 2pm at Ladywood Share Shack.

Reading Well Book Lists – Reading Well helps you to understand and manage your health and wellbeing using helpful reading. The books are chosen by health experts and people living with the conditions covered. They are sorted into categories including Children, Teens and Children’s Mental Health.

BooksForTopics: the benefits of Recommended Read packs – this guest post by Alison Leach for Peters Books highlights the ways in which schools, teachers and young readers can benefit from the Books for Topics selections. Reading for Pleasure, increasing teachers’ book knowledge and diversifying children’s book choices are included.

8 Great UK Middle Grade Books Students Will Love – this selection of books chosen by secondary school librarian Lucas Maxwell for Book Riot is well worth browsing for ideas.

Overcoming the barriers to reading – guest post on the Book Trust website by S F Said who shares his tips for overcoming barriers to reading.

Malorie Blackman shares PEN Pinter Prize 2022 with Dr Abduljalil Al-Singace – The PEN Pinter Prize was established in 2009 by the charity English PEN, which defends freedom of expression and celebrates literature, in memory of Nobel-Laureate playwright Harold Pinter. The former Children’s Laureate is the first children’s and YA writer to be awarded the PEN Pinter Prize.

Books That Help: Resources and Free Webinar for Writers – Books That Help has announce a mentorship for one writer or writer-illustrator. To help you prepare your story and to talk you through the application process, you are invited to join Little Tiger’s Editorial Director, Ellie Farmer and mentor, Clare Helen Welsh, for a webinar on Zoom. The webinar takes place on 19th October at 7pm and full details of the scheme and the webinar are available via the link.

New Partnership between The Reader Teacher and Reading Rocks – Scott Evans ((The Reader Teacher) and Reading Rocks have recently partnered up to offer schools the chance to purchase Scott’s Top 100 Recommended Reads lists (from Nursery to Year 6) as full packs with special schools discount. These lists have been updated for 2022 and feature a range of fiction, non-fiction, poetry, picture books, graphic novels, classics, new, inclusive and diverse books. You can order via the Reader Teacher website by clicking on an individualist and following the link or direct through the Reading Rocks website.

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

My Rhinoceros by Jon Agee – I have a copy of this book published by Scallywag Press and think this review by Mat Tobin for Books for Keeps eloquently describes the appeal of this humorous story. “Agee excels in telling so much through the rhino’s eyes – a few black lines and the exasperated, withering look from the rhino are clear.”

I Am a Poetato: An A-Z of Poems About People, Pets and Other Creatures by John Hegley – this new poetry collection is suitable for younger primary school children and sounds a lot of fun. This helpful review by Jacqueline Doherty provides ideas on how this book could be used in the classroom but this may be enjoyable to share aloud at home too.

Bookworms By Nyanda Foday (author), Joelle Avelino (illustrator) – I find any book that encourages children to become bookworms irresistible so had to include this LoveReading4Kids Book of the Month review. Written by former Birmingham Young Poet Laureate Nyanda Foday this is an introduction to the vital need for every child to see themselves in the books they read.

The Miraculous Sweetmakers: The Frost Fair by Natasha Hastings – despite telling children to never judge a book by its cover for years, it was the gorgeous cover by Alex T Smith that caught my attention. However having now read this review by Tom Griffiths I now want to read the story.

That’s all for this week. I hope it’s been useful to you. Happy reading.

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Zeki Rise and Shine and Zeki Sleep Tight – two new books for babies by Anna McQuinn and Ruth Hearson

Posted on October 14, 2022 by alibrarylady

A double helping of Zeki is hugely welcome and these two delightful new books published by Alanna Max perfectly start and end the day for little ones. They encompass the family rituals familiar to many and are wonderful for encouraging early learning and talk too. Perfect little packages created with care.

Zeki Rise and Shine

It is morning and as Zeki wakes in his cot his mummy pulls back the curtains and the sun shines in beckoning the baby to start his day. We bounce along with Zeki as he shakes himself and his cereal, munches and splashes, wriggles and shimmies making the most of the sights, sounds and sensations of his busy day. Zeki is loved and secure, involved and happy throughout this celebration of family routine and togetherness.

Repeated readings of this book have highlighted the care and consideration that has gone into the detail. Each time I look notice more. The text, perfect to read aloud, is lush evoking the sounds and sensations the baby is experiencing. “He munches on crunchies. He sips zingy juice.” The joyful illustrations contain detail for young children to identify enabling vocabulary learning. Some elements in the pictures are repeated prompting recognition; the sun in Zeki’s book and hanging from the cot, the toy rooster on the window sill and on the logo on the Daddy’s cereal box. There is humour also as the crocodile on Zeki’s bib looks as though he wants to share breakfast. Eagle eyed readers may spot the little seahorse who features in the other Zeki books too.

Zeki Sleep Tight

Perfectly complementing Zeki Rise and Shine this comforting book encourages a slower read and gentle moments as Zeki settles down to sleep. Sipping warm milk, a bath time soak, a snuggly towel and sleep suit, a quiet story then hushed and cosy Zeki winds down and rests surrounded by his favourite toys. The tone and feel of this second book is calm, reassuring and just like the morning version full of family love and care.

The language again evokes both the mood and the sensory experience of the bedtime rituals families with small children know and share. The choice of words such as “dreamy cream” and “snuggly hug” are perfect for calming toddlers as they listen to this read aloud. The text uses tools such assonance and alliteration to give this story a lyrical feel almost like a lullaby. It’s beautifully done. The illustrations work in harmony with the text adding much to the enjoyment. Just a few examples are sleeping sheep on Zeki’s sleep suit, a dozing bear on a book cover, a sloth on the bedside cabinet echoing Zeki’s shape nestled on his daddy. The detail is wonderful and there is much to recognise and talk about within this little book.

Both Zeki Rise and Shine and Zeki Sleep Tight are produced in sturdy card with rounded corners perfect for small hands. These titles are published in October and come highly recommended for both Early Years settings and new parents. I would like to thank the publishers, Alanna Max for my review copies.

If these books appeal you may also like to try another in this wonderful series, Zeki Loves Mummy.

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Tyger by SF Said illustrated by Dave McKean

Posted on October 12, 2022 by alibrarylady

We remember the important books we read in our childhood many years later as adults. It is as adults that we understand those books in a subtly different way, their influence shapes us and our understanding of our world. Tyger is a wonderful example of why children’s books matter and will, I think, be a book that today’s generation of young readers will remember and refer back to as adults.

Cover illustration by Dave McKean

It is 2021 in London but in an alternate world, where the British Empire has never ended and where slavery has not been abolished. It is a world of ghettos and oppression. A young boy called Adam lives in the Soho ghetto and on an errand for his parents discovers something incredible in a rubbish dump in London. A mysterious, mythical, magical animal…a TYGER. The tyger is in danger, hunted by the evil Sir Mortimer Maldehyde and his four huntsman on horseback. Adam and his new friend Zadie join together to try to save the tyger’s life and ultimately their own world from destruction.

The nine years taken to create this remarkable story have paid off in some style. Within pages this dystopian world feels both real and frighteningly familiar in some ways. The manner in which Adam is treated as a ‘foreigner‘ because of the colour of his skin, asked “Where are you really from?’ despite having lived in London all his life resonates with news items we may have watched or read. In the second chapter Adam meets the tyger and such is the impact of this meeting that one waits with baited breath for their next encounter as one reads. The creature’s presence is tangible in the story even when the tyger is absent from the pages.

There are obvious influences from the work of writer William Blake. His poems Tyger and Jerusalem are part of our literary heritage with phrases from them used in our language frequently. The Isles of Wonder segment from the London 2012 Olympic opening ceremony referenced his work and the images created in response to his words lingered long in my memory. They resurfaced as I read sections of Tyger. The description of the city of London from the countryside to the north where Adam meets the shepherds guarding their flock and in the distance sees the towering chimney stacks and power stations, belching clouds of smoke echoes the poem and song so many of us learned in childhood. The descriptions of the Tyger, “her eyes burned like liquid golden fire.” (Pg11) although subtly different encourage a sense of the familiar, that comforting feeling of recognition when we read something that reminds us of words lodged in our minds from years past.

However a reader does not have to be familiar with Blake or the other literary references interspersed within the text to enjoy this incredible adventure. The rich language, the vivid descriptions combine in a story told in relatively short and gripping chapters. This is not a daunting read for a young reader but one with depth of meaning and emotion. There are big ideas included yet this is at heart a story of friendship, loyalty and bravery all of which children find appealing in the books they read. They will be encouraged, just like Adam and Zadie, to learn and to understand, to use their powers of perception, empathy and imagination and to follow their dreams to create a life and a world that they believe in. This does sound overly optimistic perhaps but there is so much hope in SF Said’s words that even a slightly cynical adult reader can believe in a world of infinite possibilities. We all need a little hope at the moment.

My proof copy has beautiful black and white illustrations by Dave McKean for the first few pages and the finished copy will have them throughout the hardback version. I should like to thank the publishers David Fickling Books and Phil Earle very much for my review copy. I simply loved this story and will be re-reading it often. Tyger was published on 6th October.

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