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.
Regular readers of this blog will already be aware that I rate the Zeki series highly. More importantly, my 2 year old grandson adores these stories of a little boy and his daily life. Published by Alanna Max these books are full of joy and family love but also the small details that have big importance in children’s lives. It is these recognisable details, I think, that make these books so relatable to little ones. Sharing Zeki and his world with the young children in your lives is guaranteed to produce smiles and encourage a growing appreciation of books.
In the latest title, Zeki Goes to the Market, we accompany Zeki and his mum as they explore a Saturday market together. The market provides an ideal opportunity for little Zeki to meet new people and to experience new food and, given the diversity of the stall holders, new languages too. What a learning opportunity for the little chap, and of course for our little readers and listeners!
Each double page spread introduces a new stall holder, a new language and an appropriate food. It is clear that a great deal of time and thought has gone into this process. Starting with Salve, Salvatore! and moving through Bonjour, Fleur! and my own particular favourite, Hola, Paloma! each friendly store holder tempts Zeki with a tasty offering. The vocabulary used is a joy to read aloud and provides children with the idea of a sensory experience even though they are not tasting the foods described. For example, “Zeki sips a fruity smoothie.”, ” Smell the spices. Add a sprinkle for zip and zest.” and “Have a taste. The honey buns are sweet and sticky.” Sharing this book may provide the opening to try experimenting with some of the foods mentioned allowing children to participate in Zeki’s experience.
As ever the illustrations by Ruth Hearson are just perfect. Full of colour, which changes for each stall, and detail they encourage conversation and there are some clever touches that children may enjoy noticing. Regular readers will spot Sammy the Seahorse, Zeki’s treasured cuddly, hiding in the basket behind his push along trike. This basket gradually fills with items as Mummy and Zeki explore the many tempting stalls too. I hadn’t noticed but have been prompted to spot that the wrapper from Mummy’s well earned coffee cup finds its way on to Zeki’s arm by the end of the story. There are no doubt more hidden details that I have not picked up on!
Zeki Goes to the Market is another small but perfect package and will be treasured by my favourite little bookworm I am sure. Published by Alanna Max Books in May this is must buy for Early Years settings and would be perfect for families too. If you have not already read the other Zeki books I wholeheartedly recommend them and you may like to start with Zeki Rise and Shine and Zeki Sleep Tight, perfect for starting and ending baby’s day.
Seven years in creation this beautiful illustrated book by award winning author and illustrator Tull Suwannakit is a coming of age story of resilience and hope. Told in a blend of graphic novel, picture book, and diary entries Higher Ground has a profoundly personal feel to it and although it deals with different subject matter reminds me a little of Shaun Tan’s The Arrival. Refreshingly different in style this would be a lovely book to share in primary schools.
Higher Ground opens with a storm and over two pages a deluge of rain is depicted. We turn the page to read that this has become a great flood and a grandmother, her two grandchildren and their pet rabbit are too late to escape from their block of flats. They learn to survive living on their rooftop garden, relying on scarce resources and limited space. Days turn into weeks, and weeks into months, but through life lessons and words of wisdom, hope emerges. As life continues the grandmother teaches the two children the importance of nurturing new life, seeds are planted, food is grown and they pick vegetables and fruit. This sustains them all and gradually they adapt to their circumstances coping with less and embracing the joy that can be found in small moments.
The format promotes deeper thought about the situation that this little family are in and there is much conveyed within the illustrations themselves. Emotions are portrayed beautifully and explicitly through the pictures. There is a range of styles adopted throughout with the occasional full page illustration have considerable impact. There a pages that are almost akin to a manual with instructions on tying knots, building a shelter and growing vegetables. However it is the illustrative strips that manage to portray the individual personalities so well that I found the most poignant. This is an affecting read. There comes a point when the children must move on alone and this lovely book is in many ways a wise guide to life and adapting to change and loss in its many forms.
This is most definitely a book to spend time over and to discuss. It introduces its young readers to many themes including sustainability and climate disaster but also offers hope in troubled times and a lesson in how to cope in adversity. The publishers are marketing Higher Ground as suitable for 5+ however I do think this is suitable for a wide age range and would be excellent shared in KS2 classrooms. Visually stunning and with emotion running though its text and illustrations this is lovely book. The publishers have created some teacher notes which you can download here.
Higher Ground was published in March by New Frontier Publishing and I should like to thank Phoebe Williams for my review copy.
When I am asked to justify why I enjoy reading children’s books one of the many reasons I give is that a well written story for a young audience frequently contains the best aspects of humanity. Although they may feature villains, heart stopping adventures and danger they also tend to convey fortitude, kindness and hope. Phil Earle has done this many times in his novels and this companion book to his award winning When The Sky Falls contains all of this in abundance. The Dawn of Adonis is the type of book that adults – librarians, teachers and parents – like to recommend because it is an example of quality writing with a perfectly paced plot, wonderful characterisation and historical detail. Children will like to read it because it is exciting, with moments of great tension and drama and with two young people at the heart of the story for whom they will be rooting from start to finish.
Cover illustrated by Tom Clohosy Cole & designed by Kate Grove at @andersenpress .
In 1911 London’s docks are alive with underhand deals, none so great as the arrival of a valuable, rare and exotic animal – a baby silverback gorilla. The baby gorilla stands to make one man very, very rich. That man is Goliath Deeds, a man so evil that others live in fear of his retribution should they get in his way. By his side is young pickpocket Toff Squabble who obeys Deeds’ demands of him. But then one night twelve-year-old Nettie is unwittingly drawn into this criminal underworld. Can she find a way to rescue the baby gorilla and take him to safety and who can she trust to help her in her mission?
This companion novel to When the Sky Falls provides the origin story of Adonis the gorilla and works perfectly well as a stand alone story however I believe many will be drawn to read the original if they have not already done so by the time they have finished The Dawn of Adonis. Within a couple of sentences the prologue has grabbed the reader with its intensity and high drama setting the scene perfectly for the ensuing adventure. Goliath Deeds is a villain with no redeeming qualities at all and the opening scenes with Toff reluctantly drawn into this man’s plans have a darkness that is Dickensian in feel. Meanwhile, a few streets away kind hearted Nettie is accompanying her father, a vet, in a rescue mission to save a cat. These two young people from such different backgrounds are shortly to be thrown together by circumstance and this meeting will have a profound effect on them both.
It sounds banal to say I couldn’t put this down but I genuinely could not do so. The relatively short chapters, the rapid pace of the plot, the tension and the engaging characters combine in an immersive and satisfying read. Toff and Nettie are wonderful characters as is the development of their relationship. The sparky dialogue between the two of them, Nettie’s resolute determination, bravery and compassion and Toff’s battle with loyalty, experience and what he feels to be right are conveyed skilfully throughout. Abandoned as a baby and ‘rescued’ aged 7 from the orphanage by the dreadful Deeds, Toff struggles with the idea that ‘any family is better than no family‘. Nettie meanwhile is coping with her own trauma and is still grief stricken over the death of her mother and baby brother. Their shared experience of loss is portrayed with kind thoughtfulness.
The descriptions of the London dockland area are so vivid that this story feels a little as though it is being played out on the big screen. This is not really a surprise as Phil Earle has talked about the influence of film and TV on his writing in the past. The plot builds to a gripping climax and the resolution of the story will strike a chord with those who have read When the Sky Falls. The final pages required a stiff upper lip from this reader and I confess I closed the final page with a contented sigh and a small sob.
The Dawn of Adonis is both exciting and heart breaking in places, the themes of loss, particularly the death of parents needs to be borne in mind when recommending to children and there are moments of animal cruelty too. However Phil Earle’s compassion shines through even these moments and the way in which loyalty and love triumph is such a heartening aspect of this wonderful book. I loved this and really didn’t want it to end.
Author Phil Earle and editor Charlie Sheppard at Andersen Press event June 2025 Photo: Anne Thompson
I bought my copy, signed by Phil, at a thoroughly enjoyable event held at the Andersen Press offices in London earlier this month to mark publication. The conversation between the author and his editor, Charlie Sheppard was enlightening and it is lovely to see the dedication to Charlie in the front of the book. During the evening we learned that there is to be a graphic novel version of When the Sky Falls in collaboration with Fred Fordham published in October and many will be looking forward to this.
The Dawn of Adonis was published on 5th June by Andersen Press and is highly recommended. This will, I’m sure, be one of my favourite books of the year.
An introduction to graphic novels highlighting friendship and fun, time travel to Ancient Greece and a historical adventure of family and magic make up this latest selection of children’s books for a variety of ages and reading abilities.
Blue, Barry & Pancakes: Mount Choco Meltdown by Dan Abdo and Jason Patterson
Recent research findings regarding children’s attitude to reading for pleasure have highlighted the importance of individual choice in reigniting children’s interest in books. I think that the third in this series of funny graphic novels for new readers is sure to be hit with its warm and friendly tone plus bags of entertainment value. The second book, Escape from Balloonia is shortlisted for The Week Junior Awards and the steady growth in the popularity of graphic novels is proof that many children find this style of reading appealing.
Mount Choco Meltdown sees our three friends enter an epic cream sundae-making competition. Barry is determined to win at any cost and wants to find the best chocolate ice cream the world has ever seen! Meanwhile Blue and Pancakes just want to have fun. The ensuing quest involves scaling a mountain, confronting a yeti and a dance off competition all of which will make readers smile. Running through the humour are gentle themes of friendship and teamwork which add to the appeal of this lovely book. At the end of the story are instructions for making a comic book of your own and an amusing look at dance moves and ‘must haves’ for your adventure packing list. I would highly recommend this for new readers who are not quite ready for the Bunny vs Monkey series and it would be lovely for KS1 classrooms or school libraries. Published by Rock The Boat on 3rd July and I would like to thank Dannie Price for my copy.
Netta Becker and the Timeline Crime by Jennifer Claessen
As a child I was fascinated by time travel in both books and film so when I read the synopsis of this new title from Jennifer Claessen, author of the Month of Magic trilogy, I could not resist. A combination of adventure, new friendship and a feminist retelling of Greek myth, Netta Becker and the Timeline Crime should have a wide audience appeal.
Netta’s little brother Remy is history obsessed so when her parents take the family to an old villa in Crete for their summer holiday he is delighted but this is most definitely not Netta’s idea of fun. However shortly after their arrival Netta starts having realistic dreams in which she is dragged back thousands of years to Ancient Greece. Once there she meets a young princess, daughter of King Minos, and finds herself caught up in the preparations for the opening of the King’s precious labryinth. There is intrigue, rumours of monsters and conflict in this ancient time and Netta finds herself drawn increasingly to the past and her present day self is becoming less strong. Netta and Remy gradually unite to try to work out what is happening, solve the puzzle and ultimately save Netta in an increasingly tense drama. The growing friendship between Netta and the young Ariadne is key to the plot as is the loyalty Remy shows to his older sister and this adds warmth to the mystery and excitement.
Readers will not have to be familiar with Greek Myths to enjoy this adventure and may in fact be prompted to investigate further having read this book. Jennifer Claessen also includes an explanatory note providing more detail about some of the references included such as Ariadne, Daedalus and Icarus. A welcome addition to other fiction for children based upon Ancient Greece this is suitable for readers of about 9+ and at just under 250 pages is not too overwhelming in length. Published by Fox and Ink Books (formerly Uclan Publishing) on 25th June. Thank you to Graeme Williams for arranging my review copy.
A Place of a Thousand Wishes by Sarah Merrett
Set in 1899 this tale of magic, family and friendship a A Place of A Thousand Wishes this adventure with a Dickensian feel is rooted in reality.
During the summer of that year there was a lengthy heatwave and this is replicated in this story and does, in fact, feature in the plot. Mason, the likeable main character is the son of an ice cream seller and during this historical period the ice cream trade was experiencing a boom. These details are incorporated within the plot alongside detailed description of the setting bringing the story to life, all of which provides an authentic feel to the background to this mystery.
Mason helps his father with their ice-cream business and as the story opens things are not going well for them. But when the famous wish-maker, Darlington, arrives in town Mason is staggered to find that he receives and invitation to his first performance. That night events take a dramatic turn and Mason discovers that he and Darlington share strange magical gifts. These gifts and their source are envied by some dangerous enemies and when Darlington disappears Mason races against time to rescue him or risk losing everything that is important to him.
At the heart of this story are themes of family discord, envy, greed and the abuse of power. The jealousy between people who should be close is the cause of unhappiness and difficulty in this well told historical drama. Confident readers of about 10 upwards will find this a rewarding read and the growing friendship between Mason and young Clem will appeal too. The stunning, monochrome illustrations throughout by Ewa Beniak-Haremska are perfect for the story being gothic in style with a slightly sinister feel. Published by Everything With Words on 29th May and thank you to Mikka Haugaard for my copy.
Recent research indicates that there has been a decline in both children’s reading for pleasure and the frequency of parents reading aloud to children. For some, sharing books is no longer seen as something to enjoy. How to encourage a change in this attitude is something that experts are continuing to research and to discuss however I would like to highlight some books that both help very young children to learn but are also fun to share and to play with.
Priddy Books publish innovative titles for babies, toddlers and young children and their cleverly designed books use simple novelties that spark children’s creativity and encourage their development and awareness of the world around them. I can vouch for the fact that my own 2 year old grandson finds them appealing and engaging. These are the type of books that small children return to and choose themselves. The books below would be great for pre-schoolers of about 2 or 3 upwards for either home or Early Years settings.
Match and Sort: Colours and Match and Sort: Shapes
These two books are part of the Priddy Smart range and feature friendly looking animal characters depicted in a bright colour palette. Each book is designed to teach small children about first concepts in appealing and playful manner. The covers feature a gate fold providing guidance for the adult on how to use the book, an introduction to the animals featured within the text and a felt backed sorter for children to place the their felt pieces in one place.
In Colours each spread introduces a different colour and children are invited to find the correct piece to place on the felt board page. For example the pink ice cream van or the purple flower. There are also questions asking the child to match an item depicted at the bottom of the page with something of the same colour within the narrative. This provides multiple learning opportunities and a chance for the adult to discuss the pictures, ask questions and encourage further interaction.
The Shapes book follows the same format but explores a range of shapes such as circles, rectangle, heart, hexagon and diamond. It also allows the adult to build on the colours learned in the first book. Once again the text depicts familiar situations such as the supermarket or a birthday party. The questions in the text are designed to prompt conversation and encourage children to recognise shapes in the objects that they see around them. The detail in the illustrations is well done and full of items little ones will recognise and enjoying naming. The animals in both books are named in a manner that encourages children to recognise and learn letter sounds, for example, Marnie Mouse and Tony Tiger. Each book includes a handy envelope section to store the felt pieces too.
Little Kids, Big Questions: Farm and Baby Animals
These two interactive board books are great fun for very young children with lots of opportunity for them to get involved using tabs, flaps, pop-ups and more. In Farm key bite sized facts about all manner of things found on the farm from buildings, animal homes, tractors and other vehicles to crops, a range of animals and how they are cared for are included. There is a great deal of information packed into this relatively small board book conveyed through questions, short answers and guided learning in picture form in both illustration and photo format. Children are asked which animal sleeps in a barn? Where do eggs come from? What is grown on a farm? Why do sheep grow a fleece? and more. There is lots here to keep small hands busy and keep children’s attention and slightly older children will enjoy exploring the book independently.
Many children find baby animals appealing and in the companion book in this series, Baby Animals, they can meet a wide variety from puppies and kittens to bear cubs and squirrels, from sea otter pups and baby seahorses to penguin chicks and elephant calves. Children learn through both the photos and illustrations and through the text and interactive elements ensuring that all readers or listeners find something that holds their attention. I liked the sliding ‘before and after’ photos depicting baby animals and the corresponding adult parent. The animals included live in a variety of habitats and from all over the world. Baby Animals also offers an opportunity for young children to be learn what each animal needs to survive and thrive in its own environment. The illustrative style in both Baby Animals and Farm is light hearted and appealing while remaining true to the appearance of the animals themselves. It is clear that a great deal of thought has gone into the design of all these books to make them appealing to their audience.
I remain impressed by the quality of the books Priddy Books are producing for very young children and babies and am delighted to be able to add these to my grandson’s growing library. All the books mentioned here have been recently published and you can find out more about them and the other ranges available on the publisher’s website here. At the moment my grandson is an avid fan of another book in their range, Ten Little Dinosaur Eggs, which I reviewed here.
I should like to thank Eleanor Coombes of Priddy Books for providing my review copies.
The Elixir by Lindsay Gavin illustrated by Kristina Kister
A thrilling mix of history, sorcery and invention, Lindsay Galvin’s first novella for Barrington Stoke is a wonderful example of the blend of fact and fiction that this author does so well. Featuring a young Isaac Newton, the fear of the plague and the persecution of those accused of witchcraft there are familiar historical references but Lindsay Galvin uses these as a catalyst for an adventure that will keep young readers gripped.
Ann Storer works with her elder brother and sister in her family’s apothecary while her parents are away. Unbeknown to others Ann has inherited her grandmother’s mysterious gift of healing and uses this to dispense special tinctures in the apothecary. The arrival of the youthful genius Isaac Newton who is to lodge in the room above the shop disturbs the family’s usual arrangements and also gives Ann the opportunity to combine her own skills with his. Together the pair secretly create a special elixir with unlimited powers which they hope to keep safe. However the arrival in town of a witchfinder throws their plans into disarray and when the plague descends on those she cares for Ann risks everything to try to help.
With a strong protagonist, a fast moving plot and the magical elements this will have a wide audience appeal. The illustrations by Kristina Kister fit the time period and tone of the story well and I particularly like the one of Ann picking herbs in the moonlight. The stunning cover has great shelf appeal too. Expertly edited and produced by Barrington Stoke to be accessible to those with a reading age of 8 this is suitable for the 9+ reader and may well tempt them to try one of Lindsay Galvin’s longer historical novels in the future.
The Amulet of Hath by Vashti Hardy illustrated by Rebecca Sheerin
Vashti Hardy’s has a knack of packing a big adventure into a small book and The Amulet of Faith, the second in the Relic Hunters series has a real feel of a blockbuster told in just over 100 pages. In this second instalment we join the Greystone family as they race to find the lost gold of ancient Hath and do battle with an old foe.
Mabel Greystone and her brother Will are delighted when they get the opportunity to join their Aunt Lucy, a famous and intrepid relic hunter, on a quest to uncover the location of Hath and its hidden store of gold. When the long lost amulet which holds the secret to the location is stolen by their enemy, Bryan Cogsworth, the children are determined to foil his plans and help their Aunt to crack the code by solving the tricky clues. This steampunk fantasy contains the familiar elements that make Vashti Hardy’s books so popular with children and robot camels are a neat touch as our heroes make their way across the desert. There are dirty tricks from Cosgrove to complicate things further and and the resourceful Mabel never gives up and no doubt young readers will be willing her on in her efforts. Alongside the cliff hangers, drama and thrills there is a wise message about that the real ‘treasure’ in life being people, particularly family.
Rebecca Sheerin’s illustrations capture and convey the drama and the imaginary world well and this appealing package is perfect for readers aged 9+ with a reading age of 8.
Cold Turkey by Simon James Green illustrated by Tosin Akinkunmi
I thoroughly enjoyed the humour in Simon James Green’s first book for Barrington Stoke, the teen romance, The Big Ask and although the focus of Cold Turkey is friendship and forgiveness this sense of fun is evident again. There is lots of snappy dialogue, witty banter and moments of hilarity in this jolly caper.
Feeling betrayed by his best friend’s behaviour over a girl, Kit is furious with his long standing friend Hamza and has decided that he wants nothing more to do with him. However, when 80 year old Mrs Mason asks both boys to do a favour for her they are thrown together despite Kit’s decision. Adding further complications to this situation is the task they have been set; the boys are to deliver a cooked turkey to Mrs Mason’s friend on the other side of London before it gets cold and they have been offered a lot of money to do so. From the first moment when the precious cargo is packed into a tartan shopping trolley this is laugh out loud funny but also with a kind observation of the importance of loyalty, friendship and forgiveness.
The boys are really up against the odds as they race against the clock to complete their mission encountering the police, the bomb squad and a scary street gang en route. The story is concluded in a really thoughtful way and I found the ending really satisfying and think the book’s intended audience will do to. This is marketed at the 11+ age group and is most suitable for secondary school libraries and being edited to a reading age of 7 makes it extremely useful for those who may believe that reading is not for them.
I should like to thank Poppy McLean and Barrington Stoke for providing my review copies. Seeing Red by Eve Ainsworth illustrated by Luna Valentine was also published by Barrington Stoke this month and you can read my review of this thoughtful story of a football loving young carer in my New Fiction for Children round up.
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 feature in this look at some newly published fiction for primary age readers.
Ava Spark: Hello, I’m Here! by Alex Field illustrated by Joanna Bartel
Ava Spark: Hello, I’m Here! is the first in a brand new series highlighting the importance of communication and featuring a ten year old girl who uses a communication aid. Inspired by Alex Field’s own family experience this kind story follows Ava as she experiences home and school life, making new friendships and learns to work as part of a team.
When the deputy head at Ava’s school announces that a new girl from Australia will be joining her class and that Ava will be her ‘buddy’ and help her to settle in Ava is both surprised and pleased. She rises to the challenge and alongside her friends Miya and Jack and twin sister Flo they set to work to make Liv feel at home. Their plans include a sports day featuring Australia v England races complete with appropriate regalia including a mascot and flags. This gentle story features scenarios that the target readership of 7+ will find familiar and the plot incorporates the importance of inclusion and empathy. The forging of friendships and the different ways of communicating are portrayed with positivity through the conversations between the characters in a natural way. The jolly cover and the illustrations throughout are appealing and break up the text for children with less reading stamina.
Published by New Frontier Publishing on 15th May. The publishers have created some teaching notes to use alongside the book which can be downloaded here. Thank you to the publishers and Hannah Bright for my review copy.
Valley of the Vikings by Liz Kessler
It is over twenty years since I since first stocked The Tail of Emily Windsnap in the school library and as further books in the series followed the popularity of these stories grew among the pupils. Frequently borrowed, reserved and talked about I remember them as must buy each time a new book was published. Liz Kessler has marked this twenty year success by writing a new stand alone adventure, Valley of the Vikings staring Emily, the young girl who is half mermaid half human so bringing this magical character to a new generation of readers.
When Emily discover a bangle with a mysterious, blue crystal she opens a long buried secret relating to the crystal and to the long ago battle between Neptune and Thor. With her friends Shona and Aaron Emily discovers the truth about the jewel and the fate of the Viking lost so long ago when their longship sank as a result of Neptune and Thor’s need for power. Now the three friends must race against time to avert the looming disaster the world faces and persuade the warring gods to make peace and put aside their greed.
Emily is a great lead character, brave and strong but with an endearing warmth and loyalty to her friends and family. This magical fantasy conveys some important messages concerning the state of our world today but does so without being didactic or detracting from the adventure itself. The young characters have much in common with the book’s potential audience sharing a concern for the world’s resources, social justice and peace among previously warring factions. The blend of mythical gods, Viking history and environmental issues blends well in this exciting adventure with its satisfying ending. Valley of the Vikings does work perfectly well as a stand alone however I think Emily’s new fans will be keen to read the rest of the series once they have met her and shared this adventure. (Published by Zephyr Books on 8th May) I should like to thank the publishers and Laura Smythe for my review copy.
The Scream of the Whistle by Emily Randall-Jones
Somehow I have missed out on Emily Randall-Jones’ Chicken House Children’s Fiction Competition winning debut The Witchstone Ghosts but having now read this follow up novel I realise that I must add that to my wish list. The blurb reminded me so much of the type of fiction I loved as a child that I shuffled The Scream of the Whistle up my reading pile and this was a good decision. This is a wonderful blend of spooky thriller, time travelling adventure, local folklore and contemporary family drama with moments of chilling suspense but winding up with a satisfying and touching finale.
Ruby is fed up. Her parents have just told her and her elder brother that they are separating and Ruby is to stay with her mum and brother in her grandma’s run down village. She is naively determined to put into an action a plan to try to bring her parents back together so sets off in the middle of the night to go back to the former family home before her dad leaves. As she follows an old, disused railway line she hears a whistle in the dark. An old steam train appears with a guard who welcomes Ruby aboard as though he is expecting her. It’s May Day Eve when the supernatural world is thought to be the closest and as Ruby embarks on a never to be forgotten train ride she has no idea of the impact it will have on her.
Emily Randall-Jones builds up the tension well in this time travelling, ghostly mystery. Readers will no doubt be trying to work out what is happening alongside the characters and the gradual dawning realisation of the truth is brilliantly conveyed. Ruby is a likable protagonist and the family relationships and the growing friendship with her fellow passenger Elfie have a realistic tone to them. This is a thoroughly enjoyable tale with a traditional feel and will probably appeal to a wide audience, particularly fans of Lucy Strange’s books and Emma Carroll’s Frost Hollow Hall and Strange Star. Published by Chicken House on 5th June, thank you to the publishers and Laura Smythe for my review copy.
Seeing Red by Eve Ainsworth illustrated by Luna Valentine
Author Eve Ainsworth has worked for many years in a pastoral and safeguarding role in schools and uses this experience to shine a light on the difficulties faced by young people who are acting as carers at home. Whilst highlighting the difficulties Ainsworth also conveys how the right support at the right time can make all the difference.
Featuring familiar characters from the previous books in the series this stand alone title contains similar themes of friendship and football. Following the break down of her parents’ marriage and the departure of her dad Amelia’s mum is struggling to cope with depression. Amelia therefore is trying to care for her mum and balance the needs of maintaining normality at school and in her beloved football team. But Amelia is finding that things are getting on top of her. Food is running out, there is no-one to support her with her homework, and the regular routines are neglected. Football was always Amelia’s form of escape but now it is just one more stress piled on top of many others.
Her coach, one of her teachers and several of Amelia’s friends try to help but Amelia finds it hard to admit that she can’t cope and lashes out in anger. Things escalate quickly and Amelia really needs proper support before she alienates everyone. Written from Amelia’s point of view this story effectively conveys the mounting pressure the young girl is under and the reader is quickly aware of how much she needs help. Thankfully this book also does an excellent job of promoting positive messages about kindness, empathy and teamwork and also includes in the pages after the end of story helpful tips and useful organisations to contact for support. Told with sensitivity and understanding Amelia’s story may well help others in a similar position and is an satisfying read too. Published on 5th June by Barrington Stoke for 9+ edited to a reading age of 8. Thank you to Poppy McLean for my review copy.
Written by disabled journalist and mother of two Cathy Reay this guide is written with warmth, understanding and practical positivity. Although chiefly directed at youngsters with a disability to help them navigate those tricky years between primary and secondary age, this comprehensive and enlightening book also encourages non-disabled children, and adults, to advocate for a more accessible world. I am writing this review at a time when the first Empathy Festival is taking place and How to be Disabled and Proud is particularly relevant to this initiative’s aims.
Cathy Reay, who has achondroplasia sometimes referred to as dwarfism, opens with a brief biography giving her readers a helpful background. She explains that when she was growing up a book such as this one did not exist so her aim is to fill that gap. There is also a thoughtful and supportive note for parents and caregivers. The guide itself is wide ranging in the areas it covers. From navigating school life, finding disabled community and gaining confidence, to facing challenges like bullying and discrimination and learning how to value and celebrate yourself, just as you are.
The author does not shy away from tricky subjects and details the difficulties that people with a disability may face in society but always offers a positive way to deal with these difficulties. It helps that she has consulted many adults who have learned through experience how to conquer challenges and learn to cope with the issues they have faced. Those she quotes in the guide include Ellie Simmonds the paralympic swimmer, Jameisha Prescod, a film maker with lupus, neurodivergent author Elle McNicol and Simon Wheatcroft the blind marathon runner. These inspirational role models offer an honest assessment of their experiences and explain how they have dealt with and overcome setbacks and challenges.
The writing style is warm and chatty incorporating questions to engage and there is plenty of opportunity for young readers to make a note of their own feelings and think about ways to overcome their difficulties. This approach has a friendly and comforting tone and youngsters may like to use this guide as a reference tool and an aid to collecting their own wishes and hopes. The illustrations throughout by disabled artist Jaleel Hudson are light hearted in approach and the book’s design is accessible and inviting. How to be Disabled and Proud is equally valuable to readers who are not disabled enabling them to empathise and learn how to become an advocate. The book covers many aspects of disability and adults will learn much from this guide too, with the sections on activism and the medical side being a valuable reference tool and encouraging parents and carers to think about new approaches to responding to the many questions that youngsters may have. 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
I should like to thank Puffin Books and Sally Oliphant for providing my review copy. How to be Disabled and Proud was published in March of this year.
Library Lady 