Author: Catherine Johnson Written for children in UKS2+ (9 - 12+) this book effectively manages the balance between authentically telling a complex and harrowing story whilst being appropriate for the age of the intended audience. It's no wonder it won the Little Rebels Children's Book Award 2019 - following its publication by Scholastic in August … Continue reading Freedom (1783) →

Author: Ross Collins Illustrator: Ross Collins What does an anteater eat? You could be forgiven for thinking this is a simple enough question, with a simple enough answer but it proves far from simple for one particular anteater with a rumbly tummy, on a quest to sate his hunger. This superbly silly story was published, … Continue reading What does an anteater eat? →

Author: Sarah Crossan I literally wept whilst reading this book and am feeling impacted by it still now. It is a powerful, stunning piece of writing that asks big questions and really 'packs a punch'. It was published by Bloomsbury in 2017 and is the first novel I have read that is written in free … Continue reading Moonrise →

Author: Pamela Butchart Illustrator: Becka Moor Although this is part of a series, I hadn't read any of the previous books. I have, however, now added them all to my wish list. I absolutely loved it. Funny, accessible, brilliantly illustrated and designed - just perfect for children aged 5 to 8. Published by Nosy Crow … Continue reading Wigglesbottom Primary: The classroom cat →

Author: Elli Woollard Illustrator: Steven Lenton Dilly the Donkey is an absolutely fabulous summer holiday read and will brighten up even the rainiest of August days. Bright and captivating illustrations add to the heart-warming story and positive messages to bring a smile to readers of all ages. Published by Pan Macmillan, July 2019, it is … Continue reading Dilly the Donkey →

Author: Louie Stowell Illustrator: Davide Ortu I loved this book even more than I thought I would - an easy read, packed with magic, mystery, adventure and books! It will appeal to younger readers and those who are enjoying being able to read chapter books independently. Published by Nosy Crow in June 2019, I think … Continue reading The dragon in the library →

Author / Illustrator: Coralie Bickford-Smith This is one of my absolute favourite books - it is utterly beautiful, mesmerising and a real work of art. Available in a stunning hardback edition (or paperback) it was published by Particular Books in 2015 and won the Waterstone's Book of the Year prize. It's hard to find the … Continue reading The fox and the star →

Author: Christopher Edge This is the first of Christopher Edge's books that I have read - having heard passionate recommendations from many people about his other books I was worried it may not live up to the hype. Thankfully, I wasn't disappointed. Even better - there are now three others I can devour and enjoy! … Continue reading The Longest Night of Charlie Noon →

Author: Nathan Bryon Illustrator: Dapo Adeola This is a great book for all ages - the quirky, fun and dynamic lead character (Rocket) is very relatable and brilliantly brought to life by Dapo's illustrations. It's exciting to see debut talent showcasing strong, diverse characters and important messages - we could all do with less looking … Continue reading Look Up! →

There are so many brilliant 'Space' books available; I've done a mini-collection here of some newer ones I love that are suitable for a range of ages. (Particularly those with diverse and female characters!) Suzy Orbit Astronaut Author: Ruth Quayle Illustrator: Jez Tuya My three-year-old son absolutely loves this book and it's been a repeat … Continue reading Space →