At a ceremony last night, at the Artworkers’ Guild in London, it was announced that Emma Farrarons is the winner of the 2025 Klaus Flugge Prize awarded to the most exciting and promising newcomer to children’s picture book illustration. She wins for her illustrations in My Hair is as Long as a River, written by Charlie Castle published by Macmillan Children’s Books. The bestselling creator of the ‘Mindfulness Colouring’ series embraces colour and narrative in her debut picture book telling the story of a boy whose long hair ‘helps me to be me’, It is a wonderful exploration of the imagination and individuality, perfectly captured in Emma’s illustrations.
Emma Farrarons Photo Andrea Reece
This year marks ten years of the Klaus Flugge Prize, which was established in 2016 to honour Klaus Flugge, founder of Andersen Press and a leading figure in the world of children’s publishing and illustration. The £5,000 prize is the only prize specifically to recognise a published picture book by a debut illustrator and is one of the most important and influential awards thanks to its spotlight on exciting new talent. Previous winners include Eva Eland, Jessica Love, Flavia Z Drago, Mariajo Ilustrajo, Joseph Namara Hollis and Kate Milner.
Prior to taking up picture book illustration, Emma also worked as a picture book designer, deciding to make the change during the Pandemic. Emma Farrarons said, “This prize means so much to me. When I left my role as an in-house designer to pursue picture book illustration, I never imagined I’d come full circle and work with my former colleagues in such a different way. It was a joy to collaborate with them in this new chapter, and to see that book, alongside Charlie Castle’s beautiful text, recognised with the Klaus Flugge Prize feels truly special.”
Chair of the judges, Julia Eccleshare said: “We are delighted to be celebrating Emma Farrarons on the tenth anniversary of the Klaus Flugge Prize, as well as shortlisted illustrators Mikey Please and Rhian Stone, and thrilled to be joined by so many former winners of the Klaus Flugge Prize this evening. Picture books are children’s first encounter with art and the vital beginning step on young children’s ‘Reading for Pleasure’ journey. Congratulations to all those who produce and publish picture books and very special thanks again to Klaus Flugge who has done so much to support and promote illustrators throughout his long career and to bring outstanding art to children.”
Klaus Flugge and Emma Farrarons Photo Andrea Reece
For more information about the Klaus Flugge Prize and to find out about the other illustrators on this year’s shortlist please visit the official website: https://www.klausfluggeprize.co.uk/
What Was It Like To Be An Ancient Greek by David Long illustrated by Stefano Tambellini
Barrington Stoke are probably best known as a publisher of accessible, high quality fiction for children and teens, however the partnership between award winning historian David Long and illustrator Stefano Tambellini has resulted in an excellent series of information books for primary learning. The latest title sheds light on life as an ancient Greek and is a fascinating read.
The nine chapters interspersed with illustrations, maps and labelled depictions of aspects of Greek life cover a range of subject areas. Travelling back almost 3000 years we learn the background to this ancient civilisation, how they lived and worked and discover how some became brilliant astronomers, philosophers, artists and navigators. Under the rule of Alexander the Great their influence spread still further. There is a chapter on their myths and legends and explanations of the origins of the Olympic Games. The way in which examples of their influence can still be seen today is incorporated in the text will, I think, increase the relevance and interest of this subject for children.
The book culminates in the arrival of the Roman Empire and leads nicely into another book in the series, What Was It Like To Be An Ancient Roman David Long’s writing style is both readable and interesting and What Was It Like To Be An Ancient Greek would be a useful purchase for primary school libraries. Many children will enjoy reading this and learn much from it and teachers will also find this a useful classroom resource. Published on 14th August and suitable for readers aged 9+ with a reading age of 8. As with all Barrington Stoke books this is carefully edited and presented to be dyslexia friendly which is an added bonus.
Jellybean by Eve Ainsworth illustrated by Theo Parish
Sometimes children’s books are more than a story, they can support, guide and inform both their target audience and the adults who care for those readers in many varied roles. Jellybean is one of those books. Anxiety-based school avoidance is a growing problem in the UK, with a huge increase since the Covid-19 pandemic. There is much discussion in the media about the best way in which to tackle this issue and Eve Ainsworth has used her experience in pastoral and child protection roles in schools to great effect in this compassionate novella.
The story features Ellie who can’t face going to school any more. Her parents suspect bullying may be the cause or is schoolwork too hard? The truth is Ellie is unable to articulate the reason herself. Her anxiety grows despite her close friendships and her enthusiasm for some of the lessons such as English and Art. The days of absence grow into weeks and Ellie’s parents seek outside help to try to support their daughter and help her find a way back. It is clear that a great deal of thought has gone into the writing of Ellie’s story as it is easy to empathise with this worried girl and we are hoping that the kindness and understanding shown by the adults in the book will help her cope with things. It is a clever touch to leave the ending open to interpretation prompting discussion and further thought about the choice Ellie will make.
At the end of the story there are several pages of further information for parents and carers and young people providing details of useful organisations and tips for coping with anxiety. Some of this advice is successfully incorporated within the story too. This is a must buy for secondary school libraries and would be useful for parents. Published on 14th August and suitable for readers aged 11+ with a reading age of 7. Eve Ainsworth has written several novels for Barrington Stoke and another for teens on the subject of foster care, Know My Place, is well worth seeking out if you haven’t already read it.
Finding new non fiction for younger primary aged children can sometimes be a challenge so as we start the new school year I would like to draw your attention to three new information books pitched at an audience aged approximately 5-8 years. These titles all relate to the natural world, a subject often popular with this age group, and would also be interesting for children a little older. All are designed to appeal to children and would, I think, be excellent purchases for primary school libraries and classrooms.
Bugs! Bugs! Bugs! by Susan Martineau illustrated by Vicky Barker
The award winning non-fiction partnership of Susan Martineau and Vicky Barker return with the third title in their Nature Investigator series. In Bugs! Bugs! Bugs! they explore in detail the world of creepy crawlies in a book that will delight and fascinate young bug lovers.
This engaging book is pitched at readers of about 5 upwards and is full of fascinating information presented in an appealing style with bright, attractive illustrations which encourage browsing. After an introduction to the bug world the reader explores a wide range of minibeasts including beetles of different types, spiders, grasshoppers, butterflies, moths, millipedes, centipedes, bees, wasps and more. The facts are conveyed using subject specific language such as, larvae, antennae, proboscis etc. with explanations provided within the text and the detailed illustrations. The pictures are labelled and important words highlighted with definitions also provided in the helpful glossary.
Bugs! Bugs! Bugs! answers every possible question a child may have on the subject and works well as both a reference book and as a lovely book to explore, browse or read for pleasure or general interest too. It also highlights that although some bugs may be viewed as a pest or spread disease they are an essential part of life on Earth and have important roles as pollinators, food, and recyclers. Finally, a few tips on how children can help protect bugs that may be endangered are included.
A lovely book to share both at home and in school this would be an excellent addition to primary school libraries and classrooms. Published on 24th July by B Small Publishing. I should like to thank the publishers and Naomi Weeks for my review copy.
The Tree of Life by Nalini Nadkarni illustrated by Kendra Binney
Written by forest ecologist Nalini Nadkarni, The Tree of Life is a captivating introduction to the extraordinary role trees play in our world. Drawing on her expertise, Nadkarni takes young readers on a journey across continents, highlighting a wide variety of tree, from familiar species to more unusual ones, and showing how each contributes to the well being of its ecosystem.
Kendra Binney’s clear, detailed illustrations are a perfect match for the text, with vibrant depictions of trees, animals, and habitats that invite children to linger on each page. The addition of interactive lift-the-flap elements encourages exploration, transforming the book into a enjoyable, immersive experience as young readers uncover hidden details about the lives supported by trees. Lifting the flaps young readers will discover colourful birds, busy insects and interesting animals who depend on the different trees in many ways.
An additional element is the way the text relates not just to nature, but also to culture and community. For example readers learn that the Banyan tree is of spiritual importance to the people living near them and is the national tree of India. Nadkarni also includes information detailing which of the trees included are currently endangered, highlighting the importance of conservation.
This book balances scientific accuracy with accessibility conveying ecological concepts in a way that is engaging and easy for children to grasp. This combination plus the interactive design ensures the book has strong child appeal while also offering plenty for adults to appreciate. I discovered things reading this book too and am looking forward to sharing it.
The Tree of Life is a beautiful celebration of trees as providers of food, shelter, and inspiration. It is both an educational resource and a work of art—an ideal choice for classrooms, libraries, or families eager to spark curiosity about the natural world and nurture a love for trees. Published by Neon Squid on 1st July and I should like to thank the publishers and Malu Rocha for my review copy.
Volcano by Claire Saxby illustrated by Jess Racklyett
Another award-winning duo return in this stunning picture book exploring the fascinating world of an underwater volcano. Saxby and Racklyett had previous collaborated on the books Iceberg and Tree and Volcano, their latest title, uses the same blend of scientific research, lyrical language and beautiful illustrations to convey information to young children.
Deep down in the ocean at the sea bed the earth quakes and creatures scatter as lava pillows flash and fade as a mountain forms. Slowly a chimney pushes upwards and new creatures appear as the mountain pushes upwards towards the light. As it breaks the sea surface a wonderful gatefold opens so children can see the volcanic island that has emerged. Then new life begins as seeds sprout and branches spread, birds hover and eggs hatch. Below the sea yet more volcanoes erupt. This beautiful book explores a relatively unknown part of the natural world and provides a glimpse of this underwater environment and the ecosystems within in. On the final page there is a helpful note mentioning hydrothermal vents, the processes of photosynthesis and, the recently discovered, chemosynthesis where chemical create food energy far beyond the reach of light.
This would be a valuable addition to primary school libraries being suitable for a wide age range in that younger children who many not fully grasp the information will enjoy the poetic text and the stunning pictures. It is an interesting approach to traditional non-fiction and will be an enjoyable way to learn for many. Published by Allen and Unwin in April and I should like to thank the publishers and Laura Smythe for my review copy.
The return of some jolly young witches and their cat, an exciting adventure on a magical island, a coming-of-age story set in Wales during the Second World War and an understanding look at teen friendships and conflict make up the pick of my summer reading selection.
The Notwitches: Prison Break by Gary Panton illustrated by Dotty Sutton
‘Ta da!’ Mitch and Melanda are back in another jolly adventure accompanied by their almost talking magic cat, Rolo, and a whole host of new characters to enjoy. In a similar manner to the first in the series this happy story combines laugh out loud humour with kindness and a warm take on the importance of family and friendship.
Having effectively despatched their gruesome Aunts in book one Mitch and Melanda now hatch a cunning plan to release their parents from the Dark and Disgusting Prison for Witches. There is one small snag, first they will have to break in. So they need a magic spell to get them arrested. How can they possibly fail? So begins this bonkers but brilliant adventure which features an imaginative array of characters. Rolo the almost talking cat, apparently a vocabulary of only four words does not meet the criteria for full blown ‘talking cat’, has a starring role in the drama and his Mission Impossible style antics are hilarious. Craig the hapless witch hunter is a new favourite of mine and there are numerous other cameos to enjoy.
Dotty Sutton’s illustrations are perfect for the story and add greatly to the fun and she has captured and conveyed the tone of the text brilliantly. At a time when research about the decline in reading for pleasure among children is causing concern Gary Panton has, I think, created something that may convince youngsters that reading can be huge fun. Definitely a book to recommend to newly confident readers of about 7+ and a treat to read aloud. A big thank you to the publishers, Chicken House and Laura Smythe for my review copy and for making me giggle. Published 14th August.
Museum of Lost Umbrellas by Marie Louise Fitzpatrick
The first of The Cloud Witch Chronicles, a new fantasy series, The Museum of Lost Umbrellas combines likeable characters, familiar tropes and magic in a charming and entertaining story sure to appeal to many. Marie Louise Fitzpatrick says that she wrote this book for herself and it really shows. The tone of the book is full of warmth and enthusiasm, the adventure brimful of the elements we all love including caves, secret doors, underground passages etc. It’s even set on an island! How could lovers of children’s books possible resist this? I definitely couldn’t and am looking forward to reading the next in the series.
Ten-year-old orphan Dilly Kyteler arrives on the mysterious island of Ollipest to stay with a great-aunt she’s never met. Aunt Florence at first appears to be somewhat forbidding however she has a laissez-faire attitude to childcare allowing Dilly to wander off for the day exploring. The young girl quickly acquires both a new friend in Callum, the grandson of a friend of Aunt Florence, and a much wanted pet dog in Parsley, a large hound. As she explores both her new home and the island, Dilly unexpectedly finds magic everywhere—houses that grant wishes, portals in alleyways, and a spectacular Museum of Lost Umbrellas, where umbrellas are anything but lost but are in fact magical flight assistants.
When a stranger arrives who encourages the islanders to support an anti-magic movement Dilly, Callum, and Shelley, the museum owner decide to work together to unravel the island’s secrets and save the magic that has been passed down through their families.
Yes, there are echoes of many other much loved stories here but The Museum of Lost Umbrellas still feels fresh and some elements such as the manipulation of the population by one who appeals to their own fears has current relevance. However, this is very much a story to enjoy for its own sake. Dilly is endearing, the plot pacy enough to keep children’s attention, and the fantasy world imaginatively drawn. The inclusion of a magical library with its helpful books delighted me as did the reference to Mary Poppins. I imagine young readers will find something that they love about this delightful story too. Published by Faber Books on 31st July and recommended for readers of about 9+. Thank you to Emma Golay for my review copy.
George’s Fateful D-Day by David Brayley
David Brayley’s George’s Fateful D-Day is a coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of World War II-era South Wales. The novel follows 11-year-old George Jones, a bright and curious boy growing up in a working-class community in 1943. Through George’s eyes, Brayley vividly captures a time of uncertainty, quiet heroism, and unexpected connections. When George meets Oliver Jacobson, a young American GI stationed nearby, what begins as a chance encounter becomes a powerful and transformative friendship. The two of them bond over their shared love of sport, comparing notes on rugby and American football, and their growing friendship bridges cultures and generations and has a profound effect on George and his family.
George is a well drawn and engaging protagonist — inquisitive, open-hearted, and at times extremely vulnerable. His interactions with Oliver introduce him to situations and attitudes he has never encountered before, challenging assumptions and shaping his sense of right and wrong. Brayley handles themes of race, grief, guilt, loss and friendship with a gentle but unflinching tone, appropriate for younger readers but deeply affecting too.
The historical context is authentic, yet never overwhelms the narrative. Instead, this story manages to both entertain and educate. Readers are reminded that for every soldier on the battlefield, there are countless others living quieter stories filled with their own risks, revelations, and moments of courage. As D-Day approaches, the emotional tension rises, leading to a conclusion that is both poignant and uplifting.
George’s Fateful D-Day is not just a war story — it’s a story about understanding, about the quiet power of connection, and about how even the most fleeting meetings can echo across a lifetime and generations. A moving and memorable read, it offers young readers a compelling introduction to the social history of the second World War, while inviting all readers to think about the human stories history books may overlook.
Highly recommended for readers aged 10 and up, and for anyone who values stories that combine heart, history, and hope. The quote mentioned throughout the story, “None but the fates know our fortunes, so best leave it all up to them” has stayed with me since I turned the last page as have George and Oliver. Thank you to David Brayley for providing my review copy. George’s Fateful D-Day was published by Y Lolfa on 23rd May.
My Perfect Cousin by Karen McCombie illustrated by Sofia Miller Salazar
Fiction, especially fiction written for children and teens, can often offer life lessons through the experience of the characters created by authors. Karen McCombie has a knack, I think, for doing this without being didactic or preaching in tone. The reality behind the often quoted saying, “There are two sides to every story” is conveyed with skill and understanding in My Perfect Cousin.
Cousins Ruby and Yasmin could not be more different. Ruby dislikes Yasmin because she is ‘perfect’ and she feels small and insignificant by comparison. Yasmin is pretty and popular, has a gorgeous boyfriend, and is expected to get excellent grades in her GSCEs. Ruby is fed up with Yasmin trying to make sure that the spotlight is always on her. However, how would Yasmin’s version of this family experience compare? Using a dual narrative that switches from Ruby to Yasmin at the halfway point Karen McCombie cleverly explores teenage concerns. She touches on the complexity of relationships and the possible rivalry at this age in a manner that will be relatable for early teen readers.
It would be interesting to know how readers react to this story and whether their opinions of the two girls alters by the end of the book. It is therefore a book that may be used successfully in the classroom as a discussion prompt. My Perfect Cousin is suitable for readers of 11+ and has been edited and presented to be enjoyed by those with a reading age of 7+. At under 100 pages and with illustrations by Sofia Miller Salazar that capture the tone of the story well this fills a gap and would be a valuable addition to secondary school libraries. Published on 3rd July by Barrington Stoke. Thank you to the publishers and Poppy McLean for my review copy.
September is World Kid Lit Month: a month for everyone of any age to explore the world through international children’s books.
How do you take part? It’s simple, just read a book for young people from another country. If you use social media, share what you’ve enjoyed with the hashtag #WorldKidLitMonth. Are you a seasoned explorer of children’s literature? Then why not take the Explorer Challenge, and push your reading boundaries with the World Kid Lit bingo charts of ideas of books from, or set in, other countries, and books translated into English from other languages. You’ll find hundreds of book reviews and creator interviews at World Kid Lit blog, introducing you to children’s and YA books from over 180 countries and translated from over a 100 different languages.
Whether you celebrate at home or at school, in your library or bookshop, or on social media, September is the perfect time to expand your reading horizons and find a more inclusive selection of books for the young people in your life. I have earmarked a couple of books on my heaving ‘TBR’ shelves and will, I hope, be able to share my thoughts on them over the next month. Happy travels wherever you fly by book!
New for 2025: Reading Challenge Award for Schools
This is an inspiring way to start the academic year and promote reading and its many benefits. The World Kid Lit Reading Challenge Award, launching in September 2025, is a new competition for schools to promote international and inclusive reading. In 2025, the pilot year, schools anywhere in the world can enter, as long as English is one of the main languages of instruction. Students can read any books that fit the description of “world literature for young people”, and the Award is for the most imaginative, innovative or inclusive presentations where students reflect on what they’ve read. See here for more details, including how to enter.
This latest addition to the Lenny series is perfect for reassuring young children, and indeed their parents, as they embark on the important transition from home to nursery school. Lenny Goes to School contains all the thoughtful elements found in the previous books; vibrant illustrations, special moments between children and adults and the small details that matter and are comfortingly familiar.
The book opens with Lenny and his mum walking along the street to playschool. His mum offering words of encouragement and Lenny bursting with excitement. Once there, after a quick goodbye, Lenny settles into playing with the various activities, sitting next to his new friend Lucy to sing ‘The Wheels on the Bus’, and tucking into to his break-time juice and snack before playing outside on a tricycle. A quiet story-time follows and very soon it is the end of the day and Mummy is there to collect Lenny and give him a hug. Lenny can’t wait to go back tomorrow and play with Lucy again.
The gentle, warm tone of the narrative is comforting yet also captures all the important aspects of early childhood experiences. Wilson-Max guides children through the new routines that will quickly become everyday for them, highlighting the positive and easing them gently into anticipation rather than fear of the new. This would be an extremely helpful book to share with a child before they start at nursery or playgroup and would have value for those moving on to reception class too. It is ideal preparation and could by used by families to open up conversation about what to expect. The book also offers the opportunity to share nursery rhymes together, an important part of language development and a regular feature of nursery school life. My grandson enjoys his Lenny books very much and I know this one will be treasured just as much as the the others and will help him too. Recommended by us both! Published by Alanna Max on 14th July. Thank you to Fay Erek for providing my review copy.
Tom Palmer’s debut picture book bears all the hallmarks of his award winning historical novels for children, balancing comprehensive research and historical facts with an empathetic and accessible text. Carolina Rabei’s atmospheric illustrations in a watercolour style convey beautifully the bond between Judy the special dog and the sailors for whom she acted as both look out and morale booster. In War Dog Tom Palmer pays tribute to a loyal and remarkable animal and provides a thoughtful look at the role, and bravery, of animals in wartime for his readers.
War Dog tells the moving true story of Judy, a ship’s dog aboard HMS Grasshopper who, as the ship’s mascot, has many duties including catching rats, listening out for danger and acting as a source of hope and a reminder of home. Judy had an uncanny ability to detect incoming aircraft, giving early warnings to those on board ship. She loves the crew and they in turn love Judy. When, with her fellow sailors, she is captured by enemy soldiers she endures life as the only animal officially registered as a prisoner of war, sustaining morale and aiding survival in a Japanese POW camp. The important bond between Judy and one particular prisoner, Frank, is beautifully depicted through both words and pictures and is at the heart of the ensuing story in the prison of war camp. War Dog is a perfect picture book for sharing in the classroom being suitable for younger primary children and covering many themes including loyalty, courage, companionship and love.
Illustration by Carolina Rabei
The additional biography and Dickin Medal notes at the end of the story add to the narrative providing background to Judy’s wartime exploits and quoting her citation, “For magnificent courage and endurance in the Japanese prisoner of war camps...” The PDSA Dickin Medal is sometimes referred to as the animal equivalent of the Victoria Cross and Tom Palmer provides brief information of two recipients of the award, a cat named Simon and Upstart the horse. He also mentions Glen the parachuting dog who may not have won a medal but showed great bravery prior to the Allied invasion in 1944. Tom Palmer fans will no doubt recognise Glen from his earlier book, D-Day Dog.
There are some excellent resources linked to War Dog on the comprehensive website created by Tom Palmer and his wife Rebecca which you can find here. You may also like to explore the Dickin Medal section of the PDSA website which provides more background information and a full Roll of Honour.
War Dog by Tom Palmer and Carolina Rabei is published on 14th August by Scholastic just in time for the 80th Anniversary of VJ Day on 15th August. I should like to thank Tom Palmer and Rachel Phillipps at Scholastic for kindly providing my review copy.
Schools across the country have now broken up for the summer holidays and if you are looking for ways to encourage children to enjoy books and stories I hope that some of the books and links I am sharing below will be helpful to you.
The theme for the 2025 Summer Reading Challenge is Story Garden – Adventures in Nature and the Great Outdoors and it is hoped that this will inspire children to tap into a world of imagination through reading, exploring the magical connection between storytelling and nature. This challenge launched on Saturday 21 June 2025 in Scotland and online and on 5th July, in England and Wales. The website includes suggested titles, activities, news, games and quizzes so there is lots available to motivate children to read over the summer.
Books for Topics’ Summer Reading Bingo 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 the Books for Topics team have included some Summer 2025 recommended children’s books for those looking for new ideas.
The Story Museum Launching The Story Arcade – just in time for the school holidays this award winning museum is launched a new exhibition to the public on Saturday 19th July. The Story Arcade is a new permanent interactive gallery, celebrating the evolution of storytelling through video games. Visitors will discover — and play — landmark games representing milestones in the evolution of one of the world’s most participated-in story forms from early plot-driven classics like Space Invaders to the vast, open-world adventures of modern games such as Never Alone. There will be custom built arcade machines accessible to all.
The John Burningham Estate have just launched a wonderful art competition based on John’s beautiful picture book ‘Seasons‘. https://johnburningham.co.uk/competition/ Children have the chance to win a bundle of picture books and art supplies for their school by designing their own summer meadow collage based on John’s work and can be inspired by three gorgeous films featuring author illustrator, Petr Horáček. This is a lovely idea and is something that may inspire children to be creative this summer. Petr Horáček and Helen Oxenbury will choose the winning designs and the closing date is 8th September.
In addition to this competition the estate are also displaying John Burningham’s original illustrations for Ian Fleming’s classic tale Chitty Chitty Band Bang at a brand new National Trust Mottisfont’s exhibition. This is the first time ever that all the original illustrations are on show together. If you live in the area or are visiting on holiday you may like to find out more on the website here.
And now on to some entertaining books that I hope will make young readers smile this summer…
Cruise Ship Kid: Thief at Sea! by Emma Swan illustrated by Katie Saunders
A brand new series gets off to a enthusiastic start with this jolly interactive detective adventure. The accompanying press release says that Thief at Sea was inspired by the author’s childhood growing up on a cruise ship. Having never cruised in my life I am now wondering what I’ve missed! Told in a diary design format with quizzes and doodle like illustrations by Katie Saunders combined with Emma Swan’s chatty narrative style this should have high appeal for a wide range despite being over 300 pages in length. It would be a good recommendation for children who have enjoyed the Tom Gates series.
Ten year old Silver is the daughter of the deputy cruise ship director and consequently is rather left to her own devices once the ship and its passengers have left port. As these passengers are in the main adults, and frequently older adults, Silver has never had a best friend of her own. This means that she finds it difficult to interact with any children she does meet and is much more at ease with ‘The Gang’ of over eighty year olds who are guests on the ship. As the story unfolds Silver not only decides to try and solve the mystery of some missing watches but also make a best friend resulting in much drama, humour and personal discovery.
Told from Silver’s point of view young readers will no doubt relate to Silver’s predicament and the handling of her attempts to forge friendships raises some interesting points about whether it is wise to change in order to fit in. There are some genuinely funny moments and some of the older characters are wonderfully entertaining however it is the likable Silver who is at the heart of this and I think children will be coming back to find out more in the second of the series. Published by Usborne Books on 3rd July and I should like to thank Fritha Lindqvist for my proof copy.
Grimwood: Rock the Vote! by Nadia Shireen
Pitched at readers aged 7 upwards the Grimwood series is quite frankly enjoyable for anyone of any age who enjoys a giggle. Nadia Shireen turns her focus on the world of politics in this latest instalment of the tales of the Grimwood gang of friends but, fear not, the campaign trail for the new mayor, despite some dastardly doings, is just as jolly as past readers would expect.
Titus has grown weary of his duties as Mayor of Grimwood. The daily grind of caring for all his friends has taken a toll and he wants to follow a long held dream of his own. This is the cue for many of the other characters to put their own names forward as his successor. Which one will do best in the debate? Can any of them cope with the intensive questioning on the podcast? Who will win the popular vote? And most important of all who is the new arrival who says they want to be Mayor? So many questions and Rock the Vote! will answer them all!
There is much to like about this happy story and adults who are keen to encourage children to enjoy books will, I think, enjoy reading Rock the Vote! aloud too. All the regulars appear including the soft hearted fox Ted, the irrepressible Willow the rabbit and of course Sharon the party loving crow. The brilliant illustrations are great fun and add to the humour with many of the plot details conveyed well. With regular asides from Eric the Woodlouse, a ‘completely useless map‘ and pen portraits of each of the characters provided this is an appealing package. The fabulous cover gives potential readers a clue as to what to expect! Published by Simon and Schuster on 31st July. Thank you to Kirsten Grant for my review copy.
George and Lenny Are Always Together by Jon Agee
Jon Agee’s distinctive illustrative style and deadpan humour is just perfect for this amusing look at friendship and the need for some time and space apart. George the bear and Lenny the rabbit are inseparable best friends and they love it that way. They are never alone and do everything together. Then one day Lenny decides that he needs some quiet time alone. George is utterly mystified by this as an idea. He warns Lenny that he will be lonely and that doing things together is much more fun. However Lenny persists and goes off to ‘be alone’ and George bids him a reluctant goodbye. Lenny enjoys lots of his favourite activities; reading, building with bricks, blowing bubbles and drawing. Then some quiet thinking. His thoughts then wander to his friend George. He wonders how George is coping alone. Luckily he doesn’t have to look far to find out!
This is such a clever portrayal of friendship which will appeal to quite a wide age range. Almost everyone appreciates some time apart from even their closest friends and this book allows children to consider this concept in an age appropriate manner. The expressive illustrations are superb at conveying the changing moods of the two friends and help young children to appreciate the emotions of Lenny and George more easily. The cover showing the two friends mirroring each other’s actions exactly is difficult to resist. Agee has a gift for using his illustrations to tell the story and Lenny’s resolute stance as he stands on the foot of the slide confronting George is wonderful. I wonder how many children will spot George’s hiding place before the reveal too! George and Lenny Are Always Together is a delight of a picture book and highly recommended for children of about 4 upwards. Published by Scallywag Press on 3rd July and I should like to thank Laura Smythe for my review copy. You may enjoy the video below of Jon Agee drawing the two stars of the story.
Hello Baby: Animals and Hello Baby: Look at Me
Two lovely new board books from Priddy Books arrived this month and they are perfect first books for our tiniest readers to enjoy and explore. These chunky little books are perfect for small hands to hold and explore with cut outs, curved edges, tiny patterned ribbon tags for little fingers to latch on to and a mirror to help catch baby’s attention. The bright, striking and bold illustrations depict familiar objects or animals and there are different patterns in contrasting colours to stimulate and encourage interaction.
Small enough to be transportable yet sturdy and able to withstand enthusiastic use these board books are cleverly designed with striking, bold patterns and splashes of colour that babies will love to look at. Research has shown that black and white are the easiest colours for babies to perceive, along with strong blue and red, and that clearly defined graphics improve early recognition. All of these elements are incorporated into these appealing books. The Hello Baby series of books would be perfect presents for a new baby and a lovely way to stimulate babies and encourage interactivity and a familiarity with books from the earliest age.
if you missed my final Reading Matters round up of the school year you may like to catch up with it here as it contains many more book suggestions and helpful links.
Debut author Margaret McDonald added the Branford Boase to her impressive list of awards at a thoroughly enjoyable ceremony held at the Centre for Literacy for Primary Education earlier this week. McDonald and her editors Alice Swan and Ama Badu are winners of the 2025 Branford Boase Award for outstanding debut novel for young people with Glasgow Boys, a moving, beautifully written coming-of-age novel exploring the power of identity, community and masculinity. This brings to three the number of awards Glasgow Boys has received (it also won the Carnegie Medal for Writing and the UKLA Award) but the Branford Boase Award is unique in honouring editor as well as author.
The Branford Boase Award was set up in 2000 to commemorate prize-winning author Henrietta Branford and her editor Wendy Boase. As this year’s winners, McDonald, Swan and Badu join a list that has shaped children’s literature over the last quarter century. Winning and shortlisted authors include Frances Hardinge, Kevin Brooks, Meg Rosoff, Patrick Ness and Maisie Chan, and winning editors include David Fickling, Fiona Kennedy, Barry Cunningham and Bella Pearson.
Nathaniel Lessore Winner of Branford Boase Award 2024 Photo: Anne Thompson
Nathanael Lessore, winner of this year’s Waterstones Children’s Book Award and the 2025 Carnegie Shadowers’ Choice Medal, was awarded the 2024 Branford Boase Award for Steady For This. Lessore was a judge this year and says, “The Branford Boase Award is special. Celebrating the relationship with editors and writers, and focusing on debuts, it’s such an accomplishment to be shortlisted. It celebrates the collaborative aspects of literature, while directing a spotlight onto stories from authors we haven’t heard from. I was one of those authors, and I’m eternally grateful for the shortlisting and the win. It was the first time I felt I could be proud to be a writer. And I got to share that with my editors.”
In her excellent speech at the award ceremony Julia Eccleshare, chair of the judges, stressed the importance of today’s books being written for today’s young people, not for the children and young people of her, and my, generation. Nathanial Lessore’s entertaining speech which brought laughter to the room also highlighted the strength of this year’s shortlist and drew attention to the fact that diversity is about much more than race and colour but includes religion, class and much more. All children should be able to see themselves in the books they read. In the light of recent research regarding reading for pleasure and the importance of own choice in reading material it is vital that the stories and characters are relatable for current readers. The Branford Boase Award shortlist in its diversity and range should be a source of hope for those whose role is to bring books and young readers together.
That a book should win both an award for debut novels and the Carnegie in the same year and for the role of the editors to be recognised by the Branford Boase Award is important. This is recognised by the winning author, Margaret McDonald who said,
“Glasgow Boys is a piece of my soul and to have it recognised in this way is unbelievably special, but also to have my incredible editors Alice and Ama recognised for the magnificent work they did, taking such care of Banjo and Finlay, is more than half of the joy.”
Margaret McDonald and her editors Alice Swan and Ama Badu Winners of the Branford Boase Award 2025 Photo: Anne Thompson
This year’s Branford Boase Award Ceremony was the type of celebration that engenders enthusiasm and positivity and there was a warmth and sense of hope in the room. Thank you to everyone at CLPE for their friendly welcome and a special thank you to Andrea Reece for organising the event with aplomb.
Welcome to my final round up of children’s book news for this academic year. What a lot of awards news there has been! I’ve tried to include as many of the winners and shortlists as possible to help you choose your summer reading or new books for the next school year. There are some book related activities for the summer highlighted and yet more research findings. I do hope that what I have included is helpful to you.
Not only is this the final Reading Matters of the school year but also the final regular round up that I will feature on this blog. Five and half years ago when I first started compiling useful links to children’s news items I had little idea what I was taking on but it has been a rewarding way to be part of the children’s book community. Over that period others have started to produce some brilliant newsletters providing a range of resources for all so, for a variety of reasons, I have decided to retire Reading Matters. If you want to keep up to date I would wholeheartedly recommend signing up to the excellent weekly newsletters provided by Sian Hardy of the Literacy Hive. The website is a treasure trove of resources, sorted and presented in a style easy to navigate successfully, so is well worth exploring if you have not done so already. Also The Open University Reading for Pleasure monthly newsletter provides a wonderful selection of ideas, suggestions and book recommendations. As a long standing member of the School Library Association I find their regular news bulletins helpful and they are equally informative for anyone in education not only school librarians. If you use all of these I promise you won’t even notice Reading Matters is no more!
What I’m reading…
My reading since the last Reading Matters has been varied and ranged from board books shared with my grandson, to brand new fiction, and an informative guide for disabled children and teens. How to be Disabled and Proud(or at least sorta ok with it …)is written by journalist Cathy Reay and illustrated by artist Jaleel Hudson, both of whom are disabled. This is a book that really makes you think about attitudes and stereotypes and is recommended for secondary school libraries in particular as it would be invaluable for that transition phase of children’s lives.
The first in a brand new series for newly confident readers, the welcome return of an old favourite, a ghostly train ride back in time and how to overcome the difficulties of being a young carer all featured in my look at some newly published fiction for primary age readers earlier this month. You can read my reviews here. Several new titles from Barrington Stoke hit the bookshelves too and include the second in a steampunk/fantasy series from Vashti Hardy. A thrilling mix of history, sorcery and invention can be found in Lindsay Galvin’s first novella for this publisher. And finally there is friendship and forgiveness lots of snappy dialogue, witty banter and moments of hilarity in the latest jolly caper from Simon James Green. Here is a link to my reviews if you would like to find out more.
My little assistant reviewer is a big fan of Priddy Books, his current absolute favourite which I have to read again and again is Ten Little Dinosaur Eggs. However I have a suspicion that some of their new titles may push this off the top spot soon! I can recommend the latest batch of interactive and appealing board books which I have reviewed here On a side note the little chap has now discovered Oh No George! by Chris Haughton, another that he loves and insists that I read accurately, I am not allowed to ad lib even a little! A new book in the Zeki series is welcomed by grandson, his parents and by me. Zeki Goes to the Market is a delight and no doubt will be cherished just as much as its predecessors.
A newly published book that will most definitely feature on my favourite books of the year list is The Dawn of Adonis by Phil Earle. This companion novel to the award winning When the Sky Falls is superb and will, I think, be enjoyed by both children and adults. Last but not least Higher Ground is is a coming of age story of resilience and hope, told in a blend of graphic novel, picture book, and diary entries. This was published in March and is well worth seeking out.
News, articles and resources…
Building a Classroom Reading Culture with Jon Biddle – I hope that it is not too late for you to book this training session on Sunday 6th July at 7pm. You will have to be quick though! Jon will share lots of practical, and sustainable, ideas about how to help create a love of reading in schools. Having attended the most recent of Jon’s webinars I can vouch for the fact that these are helpful, interesting and informative. If you can’t make this one fingers crossed there will be some more during the next school year.
Summer Reading Challenge – the theme for the 2025 Summer Reading Challenge is Story Garden – Adventures in Nature and the Great Outdoors and it is hoped that this will inspire children to tap into a world of imagination through reading, exploring the magical connection between storytelling and nature. This challenge launched on Saturday 21 June 2025 in Scotland and online, and today, 5th July, in England and Wales. The website includes suggested titles, activities, news, games and quizzes so there is lots available to motivate children to read over the summer.
Books for Topics Summer Reading Bingo – this well thought out challenge is designed to keep children motivated to read over the summer holidays. Summer Reading Bingo 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 the Books for Topics team have included some Summer 2025 recommended children’s books for those looking for new ideas.
The Story Museum Launching The Story Arcade – just in time for the school holidays this award winning museum is launching a new exhibition opening to the public on Saturday 19th July. The Story Arcade is a new permanent interactive gallery, celebrating the evolution of storytelling through video games. Visitors will discover — and play — landmark games representing milestones in the evolution of one of the world’s most participated-in story forms from early plot-driven classics like Space Invaders to the vast, open-world adventures of modern games such as Never Alone. There will be custom built arcade machines accessible to all.
Love My Books Website – Parents and carers do you want to make sure your children continue to develop as readers during the summer? Have a look at the Love My Books free, book based resources for children 0-11. There are lots of creative ideas for story fun, advice & videos.
Books for Topics: 2025-2026 Year Group Recommended Reads – yes, I know that everyone is probably counting down the days to the end of term but just in case you want to do some planning for next year Books for Topics is here to help you. Each of their recommended reads book lists has just been updated and they cater for children from Early Years up to Year 8. Divided into genres or interest areas these lists are a terrific mix of new releases and old favourites. There are posters and lists to download too.
Books for Topics: Transition Lists – also from Books for Topics (Thank you, Alison Leach!) are these helpful lists of books to use in primary schools to ease the transition to new classes/year groups.
Just Imagine: The Reading Journey – another valuable link for those planning for the next academic year. Just Imagine have created a new approach to reading records designed to help children develop their reading identities and teachers to maintain an overview of volitional reading in their classes. You can find out more about this initiative and sign up via the link above and watch the introductory webinar here.
The Week Junior Book Awards Shortlists Announced – the shortlists for these awards were announced on 3rd June and there are 13 different categories including audiobook, graphic novel, poetry and wellbeing across an age range and are well worth exploring. The winners will be announced in September.
Jhalak Prize Winners Announced – this award has three categories and the winner of the Children’s & YA Prize Winner is Nathanael Lessore for his brilliant book, King of Nothing published by Hot Key Books. You read more about Nathanael, his winning story and the other books on the shortlist on the official website. I can add my own personal recommendation too as this has been one of my favourite reads of the year so far.
Centre for Literacy in Primary Education to become a part of The National Literacy Trust – On Sunday 1 June 2025, the National Literacy Trust and the Centre for Literacy in Primary Education (CLPE) announced that CLPE is to become a subsidiary charity of the National Literacy Trust, effective immediately. The charities said in a statement: “By joining forces and combining resources, expertise and networks, the new structure aims to turbo-charge the charities’ combined impact on literacy education in the UK and internationally.“
Ross Montgomery Wins the 2025 Children’s Book Award – Now in its 45th year, the Children’s Book Award is the only national award voted for entirely by children. This year’s winners in each of the three categories were announced in June and the overall winner is Ross Montgomery for his novel, I Am Rebel. The wiinner of the Younger Children’s category is Grotti by Leonie Lord and Malcolm Duffy won the Older Readers’ category with Seven Million Sunflowers. The Books for Keeps article above gives more information and you can watch a recording of the award ceremony here.
National Literacy Trust Research Findings 2025 – This report is based on 114,970 responses to The National Literacy Trust’s Annual Literacy Survey from children and young people aged 5 to 18 in early 2025. It includes findings on reading enjoyment, frequency and motivation and explores responses by age, gender, socio-economic background and geographical region. The findings show that the reading crisis persists, however this is a glimmer of hope in that it also shows that children are motivated to read by books that cover their hobbies and social interests and when they are given freedom of choice. This is an aspect that anecdotally school librarians have been aware of and commented on in the past and is something that needs to be built upon.
YA Book Prize Shortlist Announced – The YA Book Prize launched in 2014 to celebrate great fiction for teenagers and young adults and aims to get more teens reading and buying books. The shortlist is selected by a team at The Bookseller and the winner is selected by a panel of expert and teenage judges, who are asked to pick the book they believe is the best written and that they would be most likely to share with young adults. You can view the shortlist of ten books via the link above.
The School Library Association Information Book Award Shortlists Announced – From the original 34 longlisted titles , the judges have selected a shortlist of just 12 books across three age categories: 0–7 years, 8–12 years, and 13–16 years. The winners will be revealed at an awards ceremony in November, where four Children’s Choice selections – one in each age category and an overall winner – will also be awarded, based on votes from schools participating in the IBA Book Club.
Winners of Carnegie Children’s Book Awards Announced – the winners of the UK’s longest running awards for children’s books were announced on 19th June at a ceremony at the Cambridge Theatre, home of the award wining musical Matilda. In a year where new talent triumphed, 27-year-old Scottish debut author Margaret McDonald, has won the Carnegie Medal for Writing for her “life changing and emotional” novel Glasgow Boys. She is the youngest winner for this award in its almost ninety-year history. The winner of the Carnegie Medal for Illustration is Olivia Lomenech Gill for Clever Crow an “innovative” non-fiction picture book. The winner of the Carnegie Shadowers’ Choice Medal for Writing is King of Nothing by Nathanael Lessore. The second debut to triumph this year is Homebody by author-illustrator Theo Parish which has won the Carnegie Shadowers’ Choice Medal for Illustration.
CLiPPA (CLPE Poetry Award) Winner Announced – The winner of the UK’s only award for published poetry for children, the CLiPPA (CLPE Children’s Poetry Award) was announced on 20th June, in a ceremony at the National Theatre. Colossal Words for Kids by Colette Hiller, illustrated by Tor Freeman and published by Frances Lincoln is this year’s winner and is described by Roger McGough as “indisputably original and ambitious, with rhymes that demand to be spoken aloud… and proof that learning big words needn’t be even faintly soporific!” The show featured performances from all the shortlisted poets, children from schools across the UK, and live illustration by former Children’s Laureate Chris Riddell.
Winners of the UKLA Awards Announced – Margaret McDonald’s debut novel, Glasgow Boys, after winning the Carnegie Medal for Writing see above, has also won the 11-14+ category winner at a ceremony held at the UKLA International Conference in Liverpool on 27th June. The 7-10+ category winner was Hiba Noor Khan’s Safiyyah’s War. Full details of the winners, the shortlists and the awards themselves can be found on the link above.
Lit in Colour Teacher Conference at the British Library, London – a date for your diary for September. Hosted by Penguin Books, in collaboration with the British Library, this free, one-day event is designed for teachers and librarians across Key Stages 2-5 and will offer practical strategies, deep subject knowledge, and fresh inspiration for embedding texts by authors of colour across these key stages. Places are free but booking is essential. The conference takes place on Saturday 6th September from 9.30am – 5pm. More information can be found on the website above.
Well that’s it for this month, this academic year and from my regular round ups. However, I will still be here! I will be continuing in the world of children’s books and am looking forward to new challenges, after a bit of a summer break. From September on this blog I will concentrate on features linked to children’s book events, awards etc. and on book recommendations for librarians, teachers and families. There may be one or two over the summer period too.If you are a member of the School Library Association you will also be able to explore the book lists I am working on with them, the first of which were published this week.
Thank you for reading, sharing, commenting and supporting Reading Matters for the last five years. Wishing you a happy and relaxing summer.
Library Lady 