Tag Archives: Mental Health

The Incredible Record Smashers by Jenny Pearson illustrated by Erica Salcedo

Which books do children read? The answer to this question varies according to which source of information you consult. A more pertinent question might be, which books do children choose to read? I always find it fascinating to compare the lists … Continue reading

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Swan Song by Gill Lewis

Swan Song by award winning author Gill Lewis is a thoughtful and sensitively written story about teenage mental health which highlights the power of nature to restore and heal troubled minds. A lovely book with a valuable and comforting message. … Continue reading

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The Elephant by Peter Carnavas

The Elephant is a skilfully and sensitively told story which approaches grief and mental health in a manner that is both touching and comforting. Peter Carnavas has made it possible for children to observe the healing power of kindness and … Continue reading

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Toffee by Sarah Crossan – Book 4 of 20 Books of Summer 20

In 2013 I challenged myself to read all the shortlisted titles for that year’s Carnegie Award and found that I discovered authors new to me and also explored genres that had beforehand not appealed. The high point of the exercise … Continue reading

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Reading Matters – news from the world of children’s books

Hello everyone and welcome to another look back at what has been happening in the children’s books community this week. It has been a very busy few days with award ceremonies and shortlist announcements, many new books published and interesting … Continue reading

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Felix After The Rain – written and illustrated by Dunja Jogan Translated by Olivia Hellewell

This is such a beautiful book. Wonderful illustrations which encourage the reader to linger combine with a rich text to create something that will comfort and reassure. Highly recommended for children of all ages and quite probably adults too.  Felix … Continue reading

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Anti Bullying Week and the Role of the School Library + links to book lists

Anti-Bullying Week takes place in schools across England each November. This year’s Anti-Bullying Week has the theme Change Starts With Us and is happening from Monday 11th November – Friday 15th November 2019. Bullying in all its forms may have … Continue reading

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Butterflies for Grandpa Joe by Nicola Davies illustrated by Mike Byrne

This gentle story, by Nicola Davies and illustrated throughout by Mike Byrne, conveys how love across the generations and the healing power of nature can soothe the heartache of grief and give hope for the future. This lovely book deserves … Continue reading

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Owen and the Soldier by Lisa Thompson

Owen and the Soldier is a touching story relating how we all need to have someone to listen to us when times are hard but also need to be brave enough to ask. In her first title for Barrington Stoke, … Continue reading

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Special Delivery by Jonathan Meres illustrated by Hannah Coulson – Dementia in children’s books

A book about finding friendship in unlikely places, this gentle story focusing on helping others, provides a kind and thoughtful look at dementia and is suitable for younger readers. Frank would like a new bike. Unfortunately it is not Christmas … Continue reading

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