Author: Catherine Bruton Catherine Bruton tells a very important and moving story through this book. Her introduction powerfully explains what inspired her, when writing it, and why she felt Aya's story needed to be told. Whilst it will definitely appeal to those who love ballet (it reminded me of the many hours I spent reading … Continue reading No ballet shoes in Syria →

Author: Jessica Love Illustrator: Jessica Love I can't speak highly enough of this book. There is magic within it's pages and an incredibly powerful story, beautifully and subtly told. If money were no object, I would present everyone with a copy of their very own at birth. Published by Walker Books (June 2018) it is … Continue reading Julian is a mermaid →

Author: Anna Fargher Illustrator: Sam Usher Follow a courageous, fierce and loyal mouse as her adventures change; from night-time exploring round a comfy home while her parents sleep, to battling with a resistance army of unlikely comrades as an orphan in Normandy. Published by Pan Macmillan (2nd May 2019) this debut novel is a gripping … Continue reading The Umbrella Mouse →

Author: Claire Fayers This book is a magical mix of adventure, humour, Welsh mythology and 'mans' best friend'. Published by Pan MacMillan (21st February 2019) it is ideal for children in Years 4 - 6 (aged 9 to 11) and would be perfect for a teacher to read aloud to a class. What more could … Continue reading Storm Hound →

Author: Kallie George Illustrator: Lucy Eldridge A fast-paced adventure story that will hook any children who love horses, racing, Ancient Greek mythology or a gripping battle of an underdog vs a likely victor. Published by Pan MacMillan, (7th March 2019) this story is ideal for children in Years 3 and 4 (aged 7 - 9) … Continue reading The Winged Horse Race →

Tom Percival writes and illustrates the most fabulous picture books - perfect for children (and adults!) of all ages. I can't stop raving about them - to anyone and everyone - so thought it was about time they had a blog post of their own. Each one has stunning illustrations, captivating use of colour and … Continue reading Tom Percival books →

Author: Elli Woollard Illustrator: Briony May Smith A delightful picture book, for 0 - 3 year olds, published by MacMillan on 21st February 2019, and perfect for this time of year. "Inside he felt empty and lonely and lost,As bleak as the sky and as cold as the frost. I love a rhyming picture book … Continue reading Little Bear’s Spring →

Moments of magic happen every day in schools but sometimes there are those extra special moments - the ones you wish you could bottle and save for rainy days. Make your heart warm and your tummy fuzzy kind of magic moments. Not so long ago I posted a request for book suggestions on Twitter... ... … Continue reading A moment of magic… →

A collection of new stories, to be published by MacMillan in June 2019, and written by some of the best loved authors from across the UK. "Tumble down the rabbit hole again to find out what happens in Wonderland without Alice there." This book is an absolute delight and is the sort of read that … Continue reading Return to Wonderland →

I might as well start with a confession. I am one of *those* people. I fold corners in books. I scribble and make notes in them. Sometimes I highlight - in LOTS of different colours. The first thing I do when I get my hands on a new one (that I own!!) is enjoy the … Continue reading Folded corners, cracked spines… →