First published in the 1980s this surreal picture book tells the story of Toby, a little boy who cannot sleep and enters a fantasy world where he is caught up in an adventure at sea. From the opening pages where we see young Toby sitting up alert in his bed the distinctive style of Kitamura’s illustrations hold the attention. Framed in black they stand out from the white background and the predominate use of blues and blacks, depicting the night sky, the seas and Toby’s bedroom, emphasise the drama. As we turn a page the rolling hills surrounding the house are transformed into rolling waves with the house a storm tossed ship at the centre.
Children may speculate whether Toby is dreaming or perhaps imagining the adventure but it does not really matter as the narrative encourages young readers to use their own imaginations. The danger and peril is enough to excite and thrill but happily there is a happy ending. The arrival of Grandpa and Grandma, albeit as Captain and Chief Gunner, to save the day is a lovely touch providing that sense of familiar and reassuring security for children. The use of a gatefold flap towards the end of the story provides an amusing reveal too.
This is a welcome re-issue from Scallywag Press who are doing much to highlight classic children’s book treasures. Satoshi Kitamura is the subject of Windows into Illustration in the July edition of Books for Keeps and you may like to read what he says about the background to this book and details of the illustrative technique he used here.
I should like to thank Scallywag Press and Laura Smythe for my review copy. Captain Toby was published in June 2021 and is available to purchase on the publishers’ website.
Sadie and the Sea Dogs by Maureen Duffy illustrated by Anita Joice
Sadie and the Sea Dogs is the story of a girl who has a dream of one day experiencing a real life sea adventure just like the ones she has learned about in the Maritime Museum and on the Cutty Sark near where she lives. When one day she falls asleep in the museum her dreams come true.
This book has a lovely traditional feel to it, an old fashioned adventure featuring in Sadie a contemporary girl who knows her own mind but who has a love for history and seafaring. The story incorporates a lively mix of mermaids and dolphins, pirates and villains, myths and legends. Maureen Duffy, a poet and playwright, writes in a lyrical style and the illustrations by Anita Joice are rich and colourful. This adventure romps along at rapid pace but incorporates interesting details within the fun.
The end papers depict maps charting the sea routes and this combined with the detail and the references to historical characters and familiar mythical names enables young readers to learn as they read and may encourage them to find out more. There is also a helpful glossary providing information about some of the aspects of the story such as the parts of the ship, locations and characters.
Sadie and the Sea Dogs was published in May 2021 by Hikira Press and is available to purchase via their website. There is a great range of resources available too, including activities and quizzes.
Welcome to this week’s round up of all the latest news from the world of children’s books. It has been a busy time with National Poetry Day, Libraries Week and Dyslexia Awareness Week all taking place. Today is Bookshop Day so if you really need an excuse to go and browse and buy today is perfect for you! The Books Are My Bag Awards shortlists were published this week to coincide with this celebration of bookshops and they are included in the links below.
What I’m reading…
I’m a bit of a nervous reader so am glad that I read A Hunter’s Moon by Danny Weston over a wet weekend afternoon rather than on a dark winter’s night. Published by Uclan Publishing in September this dark and dramatic tale is inspired by Scottish folklore and is aimed at the 12+ reader. This story prompted me to find out more about the myth of Cù-Sìth, a fearsome hound said to haunt the Scottish Highlands, and I also explored the Forest of Tay courtesy of Google maps. I love it when fiction opens doors to something you know nothing about and A Hunter’s Moon did just that. A good Halloween read for secondary age too.
Over the last couple of weeks I have kept returning to When Poems Fall from the Sky, the new collaboration between Zaro Weil and Junli Song. This is such a beautiful collection of poetry, combing rhyme, story and even rap in a joyful celebration of our natural world. Suitable for a wide age range and a gentle and thoughtful prompt to slow down and take a moment or two to appreciate our surroundings. Another beautiful poetry book that I’ve enjoyed this week is At the Height of the Moon published by Prestel Publishing. This is a sumptuous combination of poetry and short stories paired with stunning works of art. It would be a gorgeous present.
The highlight of my reading week has been Nikki Gamble’s Audience with Hilary McKay which was an event full of wisdom, kindness and hope. As I also re-read Swallows’ Flight this week in readiness I’ve much to be grateful to Hilary for, she and her gorgeous book have been such a comfort.
Why we need great school libraries and librarians – Guest blog written by award winning author Beverley Naidoo for the Great School Libraries Campaign. ‘’If we want schools that offer ‘education’, rather than narrow ‘schooling’, then libraries and librarians need to be at their heart… and properly funded.’’ Wise words indeed.
Once Upon a Tune: An Interview with James Mayhew on the Reading Realm – Once Upon a Tune is an absolute treasure of a book and this is a fascinating and in depth interview. Covering the inspiration for the book, the stories which in turn inspired the music, the illustrative technique involved and the place of music and art in the school curriculum this is a must read.
CILIP School Libraries Group 40th Anniversary– this is fun and was shared this week as part of the Libraries Week celebrations. The School Libraries Group turned 40 in 2020 and invited writers Steve Cole, Jo Cotterill and John Dougherty to perform a musical set at their annual conference, sadly cancelled due to COVID. So when SLG invited them to their 2021 virtual conference they decided to put together this video to share with the attendees.
Book Trust Great Books Guide 2021 – this year’s version of this regular guide from Book Trust is full of books chosen to engage and excite children from babies all the way up to age 12+.
Kingston students spread Hope and raise funds with new picture book – Students from an alternative learning programme in Kingston have helped produce a picture book to aid children’s wellbeing and raise funds for Kingston Hospital. You can read more about this project and read the picture book online via the link above.
Barrington Stoke Home Learning Help – these publishers are renowned for their excellent ‘super readable’ books that appeal to all readers including those who are dyslexic or reluctant. To coincide with Dyslexia Awareness Week they have updated this free resource designed for parents & carers of children with dyslexia. It offers online resources, expert advice & useful links to specialist support.
Environmental Kids Literature Awards from Around the World – Anne Marie Cahill’s helpful article for Book Riot includes details of book awards designed for environmental literature written for children and young people and the winners of these awards in recent years.
Books Are My Bag Readers Awards 2021 – This year’s awards, now in their sixth year, included six shortlists chosen by booksellers across the UK and Ireland, while the Readers’ Choice Award – nominated and chosen entirely by readers – completes the set. The winners will be announced on Tuesday 9th November. Take a look at the children’s shortlist!
Black History Month: Book Trust Book Selection – a booklist of historical stories from Black History around the world, from picture books to teen novels, spanning fiction and non-fiction.
Finally, some book reviews that caught my eye this week…
You Can! written by Alexandra Strick illustrated by Steve Anthony – this new picture book concentrates on overcoming your fears, being kind and learning how to be your best self. Joy Court says in her excellent and extremely positive review, “Inspirational, aspirational, reassuring and hopeful, this important book deserves a place in every classroom and will truly allow every child to feel seen, heard and respected.” This sounds like a must buy!
Little Horror by Daniel Peak – a story described as ‘comedy horror’ and under two hundred pages should have a wide appeal and Emma Kuyateh describes it as an “hilarious, laugh-out-loud, action-packed adventure” in her enjoyable review.
Following Frankenstein by Catherine Bruton – children’s fiction that plays with the classics always interests me and Kate Heap’s review has certainly whetted my appetite for this one. “The layers upon layers of meaning and key messages are sure to provide important topics of discussion.”
Maggie Blue and the Dark World by Anna Goodall – Ben Harris describes this fantasy novel as “very, very good indeed.” His considered review provides just enough to tempt us but without giving too much away. Ben recommends it for readers 11 plus. Including adults!
That’s it for this week. I hope you’ve found something among the links or reviews that you’ve found interesting or helpful.
September saw saw a surge in the publication of new books for children and I am still working my way through a wonderful variety of fiction and non-fiction titles. Picture books sometimes blur the boundaries between story and information or can be used to guide and encourage young children through difficult emotions or experiences. These picture books, all published last month, are examples of this.
In When I’m Big by Ella Bailey (Flying Eye Books) when Fern the baby dinosaur hatches from an egg deep within a forest there is no sign of her parents. So little Fern sets out to try to discover what sort of dinosaur she will grow up to be. She meets dinosaurs of all shapes and sizes. Surely among all these dinosaurs, Fern will find out who she is and where she fits in. This is a charming story about finding your place in the world and accepting who you are and the cheerful illustrations match the tone of the text. There are double page spreads of the forest which include plenty of vegetation sharing the name of our little explorer plus vignettes depicting episodes along the journey. It’s a nice touch to show all the different dinosaurs, suitably identified, on the endpapers enabling young children to learn their names. This would be lovely to share with young children enabling them to see that the most important thing to be is themselves.
What the Elephant Heard by Charlotte Guillain illustrated by Sam Usher (Welbeck Publishing) combines gently rhyming text, subtly illustrated landscapes and information about these threatened animals and the challenges they face. A picture book that tells an important environmental story. The matriarch of the elephant herd tells of the traditions passed on from one generation to the next but also of changes experienced by these beasts of the African savannah brought about by man’s actions. The non-fiction pages incorporate facts about the animals themselves, the threats to their existence and how people can help. The detailed watercolours capture the changes to the landscape caused by humans in a moving manner with the subtle changes in colour emphasising the impact and the endpapers reflecting the glowing African sun. A beautiful non-fiction picture book.
Tiny Owl frequently publish picture books that prompt thoughtful discussion and Rock and Roll by Hazel Terry is a wonderful example. It tells the story of two boulders who have stood proudly together at the top of the mountain for a long, long time. One stands flat and the other stands tall. When people discover the two rocks they bring gifts and adornments for them. Sadly Rock and Roll become jealous of each other and gradually their discontent spreads. Each time I read this I ask a different question and wonder. It has themes of difference, interconnection, jealousy and sharing and is a book to savour and talk about. There are fascinating fossil prints throughout and brief details about them on the final page. This, I think, would be suitable for a wide age range.
Lily Takes a Walk by Satoshi Kitamura was first published in the 1980s but thanks to Scallywag Press a new edition of this classic is now available again. When Lily takes her dog, Nicky, for a walk she sees many lovely things. Meanwhile, Nicky and the reader, see something rather different. Scary apparitions depicted in Kitamura’s instantly recognisable style are apparent on every double page spread. What is that lurking in the tree, peeping out of the postbox, hovering in the night sky or even jumping out of the bin and over the wall? While Lily relates the details of her lovely walk to her parents the traumatised dog lies exhausted in his basket only to be confronted by one more surprise. There is enough horror to thrill but hopefully not to prompt nightmares and this book would provide an opening to discuss irrational fears with children. Parents may of course remember this story from their own childhood which adds an extra level to the sharing and understanding of this classic picture book from a much celebrated illustrator.
Over the past eighteen months as our lives have been restricted many more of us have discovered that nature has the capacity both to sooth and to inspire. This simply glorious collection of poems, stories and plays encourages us all to slow down, to take notice and to appreciate the wonderful world around us. The everyday sights and sounds that may be taken for granted are celebrated in a combination of words and pictures, both beautiful in themselves, but together they create a book to treasure.
Zaro Weil and Junli Song won the coveted CLiPPA prize for their stunning poetry anthology, Cherry Moon and this beautiful collection will undoubtedly attract much attention. It deserves attention. The poems, story-poems, raps, rhymes, haiku and little plays inside this anthology, inspired by Kew Gardens, are full of imagination, humour and joyful appreciation. The vibrant full colour illustrations depicting trees, birds, animals, rivers, flowers, mountains and insects all demand time from the reader. From the stunning cover onwards this is a colourful and happy celebration.
The poems themselves tell stories and the mini plays and short stories extend this concept. The reader explores and discovers as they read and this book would be a joy to read aloud. Children would enjoy playing the various roles and learning as they participate. Even my mortal enemy, the wasp, becomes a creature to appreciate in this delightful book. There are poems that make you smile, poems that make you care and poems that move you. One of my personal favourites is Tree’s Story, a poem full of hope and a celebration of the life cycle and our interconnectedness.
Ultimately this thoughtful collection feels a little like Nature sharing secrets, hopes and guidance. We are reminded of our role as guardians of our world and yet the poetry never preaches but prompts and encourages. This is a lovely, hopeful book. Published just prior to our county wide celebration of poetry, National Poetry Day, this is a book to treasure any day.
When Poems Fall From the Sky was published on 1st October by Troika Books in association with the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. I should like to thank the publishers and Fritha Lindqvist for my review copy.
Troika Books have created a lovely trailer which provides a taste of When Poems Fall From the Sky.
Libraries Week is an annual celebration of the best that libraries have to offer. This year Libraries Week takes place between the 4th and 10th October, and highlights the central role that libraries play in their community as a driver for inclusion, sustainability, social mobility and community cohesion. Your library is taking action and changing lives!
Picture books are a wonderful way of sharing and celebrating all that libraries do to make children’s lives better. Here are a few that I have shared, read and enjoyed with children, I hope they work their magic for you too.
We Want Our Books by JakeAlexander
We Want Our Books is a debut picture book by Jake Alexander with an important message that even the smallest voice can make a difference when it is used for good.
Rosa has lots of questions and her Dad knows that the library is the place for her to find the answers. However the library is closed and not just for the day but for ever to be replaced by a restaurant. Rosa and her sister decide to put on a protest and and do everything they can to try to save their library. Although at first people are too busy or too preoccupied to join the girls Rosa and Maria persist and gradually other voices join theirs and united they can make a big difference.
We Want our Books is an inspiring story and a rallying cry to us all to save our libraries before it is too late. The tone is positive and stresses the power of communities to alter decisions that affect them all and the fact that this is started by two young girls is an empowering message for children. Jake Alexander has presented an important subject in a child friendly way. The text is short but conveys the message succinctly and the bold illustrations support the story with speech bubbles and placard messages. The front endpapers show empty shelves with just a few books scattered about whereas those at the end depict well stocked library shelves ready and waiting for users to borrow. It is lovely to see the wide range of people using the library when it reopens, a microcosm of society just as it should be. A picture book about books, libraries and the important role they play in communities is one to cherish.
Madeline Finn and The Library Dog by Lisa Papp.
A personal favourite. A gentle story offering hope and encouragement to children who may find reading difficult. The calming illustrations with their slightly old fashioned feel perfectly match the text that is a celebration not only of libraries but also of the “reading dogs” scheme.
Madeline Finn does NOT like to read. But she DOES want a gold star from her teacher. But, stars are for good readers. Stars are for understanding words, and for saying them out loud. Fortunately, Madeline Finn meets Bonnie, a library dog. Reading out loud to Bonnie isn’t so bad; when Madeline Finn gets stuck, Bonnie doesn’t mind. As it turns out, it’s fun to read when you’re not afraid of making mistakes. Bonnie teaches Madeline Finn that it’s okay to go slow. And to keep trying.
A Library Book For Bear by Bonny Becker and Kad MacDonald Denton
This is a treat to read aloud being full of humour. Bear is a very reluctant library user but is won over by his friend Mouse (small but determined) and a library storytime session that illustrates perfectly that somewhere there is the right book for everyone. Even bear.
When Bear reluctantly agrees to go with his friend, Mouse, to the big library, neither rocket ships nor wooden canoes are enough for Bear’s picky tastes. How will Mouse ever find the perfect book for Bear?
The Midnight Library by Kazuno Kohara
This picture book is suitable for the youngest of listeners. The concept of a library coming to life at night to cater for the needs of a small army of animals is very appealing to children and the ”tiny librarian’ adds to the almost fairy tale feel. The distinctive illustrations in black, midnight blue and yellow create a secretive atmosphere in this very special library.
When we are fast asleep in bed, the Midnight Library opens its doors to all the night-time animals. Inside the library the little librarian and her three assistant owls help each and every animal to find the perfect book. But with a noisy squirrel band, an upset wolf and a slow-reading tortoise to help, they could all be in for a very busy night.
How the Library (Not the Prince) Saved Rapunzel by Wendy Meddour and Rebecca Ashdown.
An absolutely wonderful twist on a traditional tale that will lift the spirits of any librarian or book lover. This happy story told in rhyme, accompanied by vibrant illustrations, relates how Rapunzel is released from a drab and dreary life not by a dashing Prince Charming but by a job in the library and the discovery of books.
Rapunzel sits on the sixteenth floor of an inner city block, bored, dreaming and looking out at the rain. No one can rouse her from her apathy, not the milkman or the postman or the baker or her aunt – or even the prince. But when at last a letter is delivered, it contains news that has Rapunzel on her feet again. She has a new job at the library! And suddenly her life is busy, sparkling, exciting and stimulating.
Wanted! Ralfy Rabbit, Book Burglar by Emily Mackenzie
Ralfy is a book lover. Unfortunately he loves books just a little too much, even those that belong to others. Frankly I have a bit of sympathy with Ralfy, so many gorgeous books it’s tempting to want to own them all. Sadly this is not really possible. So hurrah for the library! This is a great way to introduce a discussion with children about right and wrong and not taking things that don’t belong to you. A book to spend some time over as there is a lot to look at in the illustrations with plenty of visual humour.
Some rabbits dream about lettuces and carrots, others dream of flowering meadows and juicy dandelions, but Ralfy dreams only of books. In fact, he doesn’t just dream about them, he wants to read them ALL THE TIME. Soon his obsession sends him spiralling into a life of crime!
These are some of my favourites but there are several more wonderful picture books celebrating libraries of all sorts that I’ve shared successfully over the years and I’ve included pictures of these below in case you want to try them too. Perfect for Libraries Week but worth reading any week!
Welcome to this week’s look at the latest news from the world of children’s books. Many new books published, articles to read and lists to ‘discuss’ during the last few days. I have tried to select some that may appeal and hope you find something helpful among the links. We have National Poetry Day, Black History Month and Libraries Week, so a busy time for book lovers.
What I’m reading…
Last week I mentioned how much I had enjoyed reading The Book of Lost Secrets by David Farr and I have now posted my review so you can get a taste of the story and why it is one of my favourite reads of the year so far. Definitely one to watch as I’ve a feeling that this will be popular with many! Last weekend I read Sudden Death by Tom Palmer, the latest title in the Roy of the Rovers series. Much more than a ‘football story’ I found this an extremely poignant read. Tom also has a football and reading for pleasure related event coming up soon which I have included in the links below.
With National Poetry Day coming up I would like to mention a beautiful book which I’ve been savouring this week, When Poems Fall From the Sky by CLiPPA Award winning author Zaro Weil and illustrator Junli Song is a beautiful collection of poems and plays in praise of our natural world. It was published on 1st October and I would recommend this for all ages. I’ve listed an event linked to this book below. And, an example of how varied reading can be, I’ve just started A Hunter’s Moon by Danny Weston which is a mixture of folklore, fantasy and horror so I’ll let you know how I get on next week.
News, articlesand resources…
Longlists for the 2022 UKLA Book Awards Announced – Celebrating children’s books, these awards are the only children’s book awards judged by teachers. Fiction and non-fiction is included for different age groups and the lists include titles from smaller publishers and reflect an understanding that all children need to see themselves in books. I’m delighted to see several of my favourites included and am looking forward to reading others that have caught me eye too.
Free To Be Me: Children’s Books Ireland launches Diversity, Inclusion and Representation project with KPMG – Free To Be Me is a project that will ensure that every child can see themselves reflected in a book as well as learning about the lives of others whose experiences and perspectives may differ from their own. There are guidelines and packs suitable for both primary and secondary available on the website and the initiative will be accompanied by book-gifting and an awareness campaign across Irish schools, libraries and bookstores over the coming months.
Poetry as Rebel Writing by Matt Goodfellow – as National Poetry Day approaches this is a thoughtful article on the Reading Zone website highlighting some of the issues surrounding poetry in schools and providing helpful advice.
National Poetry Day 2021 for Schools – Mr Dilly Meets Zaro Weil – Free online event for schools. Mr Dilly Meets CLiPPA Poetry Prize Winner Zaro Weil to discuss her stunning new collection When Poems Fall From the Sky. Followed by the premiere of Mr Dilly’s Top of the Poems, a fun, fact filled ten minute short film introduction to some of the world’s best children’s poets and poems. Thursday 7th October 11.00am -11.40am.
National Poetry Day resources – The theme for 2021 is choice, and the National Literacy Trust have developed free classroom resources to help teachers mark the day. There is also a section suitable for families.
Football Reading CPD – Team up with children’s author, Tom Palmer – and headteacher and reading champion – Simon Robinson – for 45 minutes of ideas to tackle reading for pleasure using football. You can record this part of the free event to play to children in the classroom.
Children’s Books About Black British History – this is an excellent post by Alison on Books for Topics discussing this issue and highlighting both the reasons for the lack of availability and several excellent books that help fill the gap.
Reading is Magic Festival Videos – if you were unable to watch any of the fabulous online events from this festival this week they are available to watch until the end of the year. Full details of how to register and access the videos is available via the link above. The line up of authors and illustrators is excellent and you can see all the events listed here.
Down the Rabbit Hole: Celebrating Black Joy – if you missed the episode on Tuesday featuring Knights Of and the contributors to Happy Here? you can listen on any of the podcasting platforms via the link above.
September Round-Up: #WorldKidLitMonth – a bumper blog post celebrating world literature for young people over the last month. Lots of links, articles, reviews and recommendations.
Books All About Music – this is a fabulous Children’s Book Council list of books that celebrate music, books that highlight real or imaginary musicians, and books that encourage children to incorporate melody into their lives. Lovely to see Luna Loves Dance, Paris Cat and Thinker included. Perhaps we need a UK version?
Spooky Books – a list of books for different age groups selected by school librarian Rumena Aktar for the Federation of Children’s Books Group. From picture books to YA titles there’s something suitable for the nervous toddler to the teen horror fan.
The Reader Teacher September Must Reads – Scott Evan’s regular feature recommends his favourite reads from the last month and includes a downloadable poster.
Finally, some book reviews that caught my eye this week…
I Get Loud by David Ouimet – Martin Galway is someone whose opinion of books I value so I took notice when I saw this review on the Just Imagine website. An extremely personal take on this new picture book and one that ‘spoke to me’, so much so that it has persuaded me to seek this book out. Thank you, Martin.
Torn Apart: The Partition of India – Sue McGonigle’s informative review for Books for Keeps describes this book as telling ‘’an important story in an accessible way, describing a key event in world history with which many children in UK will have direct family links.’’
Violet’s Tempest by Ian Eagleton and Clara Anganuzzi – I love the sound of this picture book and both Ian and Clara share their favourite illustrations from the book on Jon Biddle’s blog alongside his review.
No Man’s Land by Joanna Nadia – this is a ‘Star Book’ on the LoveReading4Kids website and this is an overwhelmingly positive review, “mightily thought-provoking, utterly gripping, and empathy-inspiring story”. Another for my list!
That’s everything for this week. A reminder that Libraries Week starts on Monday so don’t forget to visit your local library and find out how they are celebrating this annual event. Happy reading!
Sudden Death, the latest title in the Roy of the Rovers series is a book full of love, both for the beautiful game football can be and, poignantly, for a father too. A story not only for football fans.
Cover art by Elkys Nova
Last season saw Roy Race and his teammates suffer the loss of their beloved stadium after it burnt to the ground, and an ownerless Melchester Rovers on the brink of being shut down. The new season brings fresh hope with the arrival of new owners, intent on rebuilding Mel Park and restoring the club as one of the biggest in Europe. But a new start also means new challenges for Roy, his sister, Rocky, their family, and their teammates, and Roy is also coping with his Dad’s worsening illness.
Tom Palmer’s knowledge of football, with subtle references to clubs, players and aspects of the game, is apparent throughout the story and is something that fans will recognise and enjoy. The exciting, detailed descriptions of games are so good that some TV football commentators could learn from them! This knowledge and the manner in which it is conveyed will draw in readers who may think books are not for them. However, the heart of the story and the part that gives this story its emotional impact is centred on Roy and his family.
Roy’s experiences and those of his father, mother and sister, and their relationships with each other, are touching and conveyed in a direct narrative style that matches Roy’s personality. He is an organised character, liking to feel in control of situations but at the same time with a strong sense of right and wrong. His values and attitudes are key to his coping strategy as he tries to keep his home situation separate from his football career. Sometimes a few words are more affecting than pages of descriptive introspection and in this book that approach works, moving this particular reader to tears in the final chapters. Tom Palmer manages to convey so much of Roy’s personality in a sentence or two. For example at a particularly difficult and emotional moment in the story he is given a lift home in a car, then, ‘’Roy climbed in, placing his feet carefully so he didn’t muddy the floor on the Mini.’’ Oh, Roy, I thought, as I read. I wanted to hug him.
This is a terrific football story but it is much more than that. It is about family, about love and about how to cope when those most important things are threatened. In the author’s thank you section at the end of the book Tom Palmer says that his dad liked books and now he’s in one. He’s in a good one.
Sudden Death is published on 30th September by Rebellion. Another in the series that you may enjoy is one featuring Roy’s sister Rocky. Among Tom Palmer’s historical novels is D-Day Dog which features a boy and his Dad. Tom’s excellent website also includes a range of resources and stacks of information about the Roy of the Rover series.
Each time I sat down to read The Book of Stolen Dreams ‘for a few minutes’ it turned into an hour. This epic fantasy adventure is exhilarating, exciting and compelling but also, ultimately, moving. David Farr is probably best known as a theatre director and screenwriter for dramas such as The Night Manager and this is his first book for children. An intricate plot, fantastic characters and an imagined world that is both vivid and believable make this a thoroughly enjoyable reading experience.
Rachel and Robert live in the once happy and lively city of Brava in Krasnia, under the rule of cruel dictator Charles Malstain. When their librarian father enlists their help to steal a forbidden book, they are thrown into adventure which sees them separated, and each undertaking a dangerous journey to protect the book and its secrets. With their father captured, it is up to Rachel and Robert to track down the missing final page in order to save him. They will do anything to stop the book falling into Malstain’s hands, for if it does, he could rule forever.
Inspired by David Farr’s great aunt and uncle’s own story this is accomplished storytelling bringing to life a vivid world inspired by reality. Although never intended to be a representation of Nazi Germany Brasnia could portray any country under the control of a dictator. It has a chilling authenticity. The story contains important messages about the value of freedom of speech, thought and imagination, books and libraries. The passing on of an important book from parent to child in an old city library reminded me a little of the opening to The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon. The secrets and mysteries hidden within libraries, book shops and books themselves are an enticing part of this adventure for book lovers of any age. However, central to Rachel and Robert’s journeys is family love and loyalty, compassion and bravery.
The narrative voice although third person feels intimate and confiding, encouraging the reader to become involved. The author’s writing is rich in detail, vocabulary and also in understanding. Those small details all mean something. The various threads beautifully entwine to create a story that contains moments of revelation and understanding for the reader. Each of the different strands and incidental characters all serve a purpose. This is a satisfying combination of epic adventure and coming of age story, of drama and quiet understanding. The importance of personal values and of having a moral compass is integral to the plot. Both Rachel and Robert mature and develop as a result of their experiences and the final stages of the story, by which time these two children have become so real, are extremely poignant.
The Book of Stolen Dreams would be a fabulous read for upper KS2 and KS3 readers. My proof copy is attractively presented however the published version will be hardback with illustrations by Kristina Kister and would be a wonderful present. The Book of Stolen Dreams is published on 30th September by Usborne Books. I should like to thank Fritha Lindqvist for my review proof copy.
Welcome to this week’s round up of children’s book news. It has been a busy week with the highlight being the announcement of the winner of the Klaus Flugge Prize. It is wonderful to see picture books being celebrated and highlighted and this award does a great job in raising the profile of this important element of children’s literature.
What I’m reading…
The Griffin Gate, Vashti Hardy’s first title for Barrington Stoke published last year was a big adventure packed into a small book so I had been looking forward to reading the sequel. The Puffin Portal, again illustrated by Natalie Smillie, is just as good as its predecessor and there is a third book to look forward to. Tiny Owl publish some wonderful picture books and this week I reviewed one of their recent titles, Gloria’s Porridge, which is inspired by a traditional Ethiopian folk tale which Elizabeth Laird heard during her travels in that country several years ago. The story is brought to life for children with humour and Toby Newsome’s eye catching, distinctive illustrations but imparts some sensible advice along the way.
My reading week has been dominated by The Book of Stolen Dreams by David Farr which I have just finished as I do the final edits to this week’s round up. The author is probably best known as a theatre director and screenwriter for dramas such as The Night Manager and this is his first book for children. Each time I sat down to read this ‘for a few minutes’ it turned into an hour. An intricate plot, fantastic characters and an imagined world that was both vivid and believable made this a thoroughly enjoyable reading experience. 2021 has been, I think, an incredible year for children’s books, there are many that will be my long term favourites.
News, articles and resources…
Books for Keeps September Issue – for many years this has been my first choice publication for children’s book information and reviews. This issue is full of brilliant articles so it’s difficult to highlight only one or two. A must read and an enjoyable one too.
Engaging less confident readers with reading for pleasure – The final instalment of The Reading Agency school librarian blog series comes from Éadaoin Quinn and includes her top five books for reluctant and less confident readers plus helpful advice.
Books for Topics: Primary Poetry Suggestions – National Poetry Day is coming up on 7th Oct and these lovely suggestions are suitable for children in Early Years up to Year 6.
Take 10 author event, October 2021 – The Take 10 Challenge encourages people to read for just 10 minutes a day to improve their wellbeing and support their literacy. There are two free virtual author events at 9.45am on Friday 8 October for schools to sign up for, Tom Percival for Primary Schools and Louisa Reid for Secondary Schools. Full details are available via the link.
The Diverse Book Awards Shortlists – the books on the short lists in this award’s three categories, Children’s, YA and Adult, were announced this week. Congratulations to all the authors and we can find out who the winners are in a live online ceremony on 21st October.
FREE Remembrance Day project with author Tom Palmer, for years 5-8. – Leeds School Library Service have commissioned author Tom Palmer to write a story about Barnbow. An important part of the history of Leeds, Barnbow was a WW1 munitions factory, primarily staffed by women. On 5th December 1916 an explosion at the factory killed 35 women, yet due to the censorship of that time no account of the accident was made public. Aimed at Years 5-8, it will be told in 3 chapters. 1 chapter will be released daily, from 8th-10th November. On 11th November, Tom will run a virtual event, which all participating schools will be invited to.
World Book Day 2022 £1 Books – the organisers of World Book Day revealed the selection of books that children will be able to exchange for their WBD vouchers next year. They are divided into four categories and include both fiction and non-fiction. It is a great and varied line up this year.
Winner of Klaus Flugge Prize 2021 Announced – Shyness and monsters: the Klaus Flugge Prize for most exciting newcomer to children’s picture book illustration awarded to Flavia Z. Drago for Gustavo the Shy Ghost
Exploring Children’s Literature Podcast: Flavia Drago – Nikki Gamble interviews the winner of this year’s Klaus Flugge Prize and asks her about the influences and inspiration behind her award winning book. I enjoyed this very much and have discovered even more to enjoy in this charming book. An uplifting listen and highly recommended.
The Empathy Circle Launched – The Empathy Circle is a group of publishers that guides EmpathyLab’s work with the book industry, helping increase Empathy Day’s impact and supporting pilots such as the now established Author Empathy Masterclasses. You can find out more and read the pledges via the link.
Children’s Book Round Up: the best new picture books and novels – Imogen Russell Williams’ regular round ups are always helpful and highlight those special books you don’t want to miss. This new one is no exception and I was pleased to see Julia and the Shark included too.
Finally, some book reviews that caught my eye this week…
SuperJoe Does Not Do Cuddles by Michael Catchpool illustrated by Emma Proctor – this new picture book from inclusive publishers, Lantana, sounds perfect. Fabia Turner describes it as “warm-hearted and humourous” in her lovely review and Fabia’s six year old son gets to ask the author and illustrator some questions too.
Storm in a Jar by Samuel Langley-Swain & Katie Cottle – Kate Heap says this picture book is one of those must-have picture books for dealing with an important but sensitive issue – grief. Suitable for all ages, it will prompt so much discussion and support. Her review explains how.
Danger at Dead Man’s Pass by M.G. Leonard and Sam Sedgman – I think it’s interesting to get an author’s view of a book and this immensely readable review by LH Johnson, author of How To Be Brave, provides an insight. In fact she says, “It’s not easy to write books like this…And yet M.G. Leonard and Sam Sedgman deliver every time. It is such impressive work and I admire them immensely for it.”
The Adventures of Team POM: Squid Happens by Isabel Roxas – the popularity of graphic novels is increasingly being highlighted by librarians and teachers so this new series is one to watch out for. The review on A Word About Books provides a taste, ‘’Roxas’ wild, wacky and wonderful ideas are all beautifully presented in illustrations that deliver non-stop action and zing with personality.’’
That’s everything for this week and I hope you have found something helpful among the links I’ve shared. My weekend plans include reading Books for Keeps, plus the latest issue of CILIP’s Pen and Inc magazine and starting Sudden Death, Tom Palmer’s new book due out this week. I hope you have a happy weekend however you are spending it.
Flavia Z. Drago has won the 2021 Klaus Flugge Prize for the most exciting and promising newcomer to children’s picture book illustration. She won for her book Gustavo the Shy Ghost (Walker Books) about a little ghost who despite being so shy he is invisible to the other monsters, eventually finds a way to make friends.
Established in 2016, the Klaus Flugge Prize was founded to honour publisher Klaus Flugge, a supremely influential figure in picture books. Flugge set up Andersen Press in 1976 and has discovered and nurtured many of today’s most distinguished illustrators including David McKee, Tony Ross, Satoshi Kitamura, Ruth Brown and Susan Varley.
The Klaus Flugge Prize judges loved the balance of fun and fright in Gustavo, The Shy Ghost, and admired Flavia’s superb control of pace and the composition of her illustrations. Judge and winner of the 2020 Klaus Flugge Prize, Eva Eland says: “There is so much to admire and enjoy in Flavia’s book…She delivers a powerful and universal story, whilst maintaining a light-heartedness and a playful touch that will speak to many little children.”
On receiving the prize, Flavia Z. Drago said, “I feel incredibly happy and honoured to have won this year’s Klaus Flugge Prize! Getting my first picture book published was a dream that started about ten years ago. The journey was filled with ups and downs, rejection, uncertainty, and constant learning. I am so grateful to my lovely team in Walker Books for giving me the opportunity to make a story about shyness and monsters, and for having allowed me to share a glimpse of Mexico and its most beautiful celebration (The Day of the Dead) with the rest of the world. Making picture books is a privilege and joy, and I hope that I will be able to keep doing this for many years to come.”
Alongside Eva Eland, the judges are Posy Simmonds writer and illustrator, Darryl Clifton, Illustration Programme Director at Camberwell College of Arts; Fleur Sinclair, owner of Sevenoaks Bookshop; and Mat Tobin of Oxford Brookes University. Julia Eccleshare, director of the Children’s Programme at the Hay Festival, is Chair of the Judges.
Judge, Mat Tobin, interviewed Flavia earlier this month and their conversation provides a lovely insight into the inspiration for the book, the illustrative technique and Flavia’s plans for the future.
This year’s shortlist was, I thought, particularly strong and the wide range of subjects and the varied styles are a wonderful indication of the strength and depth of picturebooks at the moment. My own copy of Gustavo will now have pride of place on my bookshelves. By happy coincidence the announcement of the Klaus Flugge Prize winner comes a week after the publication of the report by the Centre of Literacy for Primary Education on the Power of Pictures project as part of children’s learning. The findings revealed that picture books are an important genre of children’s literature and not just a step on the route to chapter books. The Klaus Flugge Prize both celebrates and promotes the very best of new and exciting illustrators and their books. Definitely a cause for celebration!
More information about the award, this year’s shortlisted titles and previous winners is available on the official website.
Library Lady 