The fabulous Lottie Brooks is back for another instalment. As is all the weird and wonderful chaos that comes with her. Another laugh out loud diary about all the trials and tribulations of growing up. Now that Lottie has a boyfriend, she is struggling to keep everyone happy and now Amber is being mean making Lottie feel left out of the group. Will Lottie be able to save her relationships with her BFFs? As always, an awesome, hilarious novel about the perils of growing up
An exciting thriller/horror. Devons twin, Avery has graduated early so Devon is determined to make their last summer together the best ever! However, when they go to a party with a group of friends and accidently summon an ancient demon their summer plans go slightly awol. As the demon hunts them down one by one the group need to put all their horror film knowledge to the test to try an outwit the demon. A great thriller with a classic horror twist.
What a great book! The Casimir’s, Arthie and Jin are criminal masterminds and collector of secrets. At night their tearoom Spindrift transforms into an illegal bloodhouse catering to the vampires of White Roaring. But when the survival of the tearoom comes under threat, they will need to use the secrets they have accrued to get the best team together (who are all great characters) and pull off what is potentially the deadliest and greatest heist of all time. An absolutely riveting read that I loved! Perfect for fans of Six of Crows and Peaky Blinders (if Peaky Blinders had Vampires)
Hilarious! An absolutely awesome YA read that is sure to make everyone laugh out loud. When the apocalypse finally happens, no one was expecting the animals to turn mutant and take over. Even though it hasn't rained for a year and is 30 degrees in January, due to be completely in love with her very straight best friend, the end of the world happening seems to have completely passed over Mel’s head. She most definitely wasn't expecting to be trapped in a mansion with the very posh Dorian who she can't stand and her mortal enemy, Ella who has made her life utter hell. Can they put their differences aside and survive? This book quite simply fantastic, it has a bit of everything. Romance, adventure, humour, talking ravens, seagulls who poo lava and foxes that shoot lightning bolts. It's right up there with my favourite books of the year and would read it all over again tomorrow. Not laughed and smiled so much reading a book in a long time!
When Lori’s babysitter cancels, she is left home alone (she is an almost teenager). Mum has left a list of rules that she must definitely not break (obviously these need to be immediately broken). So, with the duvet fort (rule break) set up in the living room, the heating on max (rule break) Lori turns on her computer and starts playing Voximer (rule break). That’s when it all starts to get weird and creepy. She’s sure someone is watching, then there’s the whispers and did Ben Her characters Voxifriend just talk to her? Could it be Voxminer’s most terrifying legend, Shade Girl? Trapped in her home as the doors and windows start to vanish, Lori must use all her bravery, wits, gaming skills – and the love and deep bond she shares with her best friend, Shoelace – to survive until Mum gets home. Set all in one night, this is a BRILLIANT, one-of-a-kind spine-tingling awesome adventure. Loved it!
I promise you will not be disappointed. Set after The Inheritance Games finished the Brothers Hawthorne follows Jackson and Grayson, having found out who their fathers are and the secrets that need unravelling. Absolutely loved it
A beautiful collection of stories full of romance and magical realism. From general modern romance to vampires, angels and Star Wars, there is a little something for everyone, I enjoyed every single one-Although Midnights and In Waiting were my personal favourites. If you haven’t read Rainbow Rowell before then these are the perfect introduction, for those that have you won’t be disappointed and might even recognise a few characters. I have a lot of love for this book.
The final instalment of the Bayview Four trilogy. Don't worry if it was a while ago that you read the previous two as McManus makes sure that important elements are recapped. When the local digital billboard is hacked with the words "Time for a new game, Bayview" it looks like history is about to repeat itself. With Jake requesting a re-trial and phoebe terrified of what her brother Owen did coming out will Bayview ever be safe? narrated by Addy, Nate and phoebe but featuring all your favourite characters from the previous books this conclusion will not leave you disappointed. Absolutely loved it. It was everything I wanted it to be and Karen McManus has kept her crown as queen of YA thrillers
What if the Knight of the Round Table had a female counterpart? Destined for an arranged marriage, Cass dreams of freedom. So when a fierce and beautiful woman rides up and offers to take her away, Cass doesn't hesitate to join her. It is then that she's introduced to the Sisters of Sword and Shadow, a group of femail knights training to fight, protect their community and right the wrongs of Arthurs knights, all the while staying anonymous. Drawn into a world of ancient feuds and battles, Cass soon discovers she holds a power that could change not only her own fate but that of the entire sisterhood. A really exciting reimaging of Arthur and his knights that is full of adventure, friendship and strong, powerful women.
Once upon a time Said Hossain and Tiwa Olatunji where best friends but ever since the incident four Eid’s ago they utterly hate each other. When Said comes back home for a funeral and the town's Islamic Centre burns down on the same day, they have to face each other again and to make matters worse they actually need each other’s help. Tiwa needs Said to help save the centre and Said needs to help Tiwa for his university application. This could be a nightmare. Or… Sparks might just fly. A humorous, swoon worthy enemies to lover’s novel that’s the perfect summer read.
Any 7- to 10-year-old who wants detective and mystery stories should pick up this book! The first book in a new series by this Jamaican author introduces us to Fayson who is going to spend the summer with her rich cousins on a private island. She becomes a member of The Greatest Gang of All Time, but the group of children is really not that great at solving mysteries, and that’s where Fayson comes in – she’s been recruited to solve the mystery of the man who appears every evening in the lighthouse, then vanishes without a trace. But there might be other factors preventing her solving the case …
This mystery novel is a great change from many other books (by no means all of them!) aimed at that age, dealing with a mystery instead of a lot of silly humour. I also enjoyed the Caribbean setting and Fayson speaking Patwah, which makes the whole story even more exciting.
Also suitable for reluctant readers.
In the second book in the River School series Jummy meets Dongo, a new girl at the school, and have to battle The Atlantic Four from the Zambezi House for pretty much anything throughout the year. But more importantly, something is happening to the Shine-Shine River – it’s smelly, sluggish and brown. Jummy and her friends need to figure out if Redbrick Bakery has something to do with it.
I love boarding school stories and River School series, set in Nigeria, is one of my favourites. This book deals not only with friendship and school issues all children have, but with wider environmenatl topics as well. Definitely worth to be picked up in these climate change ridden times.
Set during the Second World War, this verse form novel follows Bonnie whose brother has joined the RAF. She has always felt in his shadow, and longs to be a hero herself.
The mysterious Mr. Fisher is billeted on their household – is he a conscientious objector, or a spy? Bonnie resolves to find out.
I loved the inventive use of type in this novel, it really enhances the text, with curves and swoops and bold and faint letters. The story moves along quickly and the verse form might be good for reluctant readers too.
Great themes of adventure, resilience, bravery, strong but sidelined women, standing up for yourself – and STEM subjects – physics features heavily!
Since starting Year 7, Storm has often been told that she is quiet, that she should speak up, stand up for herself, and be more like her popular brother, Isaiah.
At school Storm feels isolated from her friend Zarrish who is in another class. When Storm breaks a school sprint record, a new world opens up for her, with new friends who accept her as she is. Trouble is, her old friend seems to be turning against her and wanting her to change – what should she do?
An empowering read about standing up for what you think is right, while still being true to yourself – ‘You don’t have to be loud to have a voice.’
After an argument with his aunty, Jomi decides to leave his uncle’s house and follow his mum to Lagos. But once he gets there, he realises that finding her in such a huge city will be much harder than he thought. Luckily, he meets a group of poor children who let him stay with them. They come up with a big plan to win a televised dance competition that Jomi knows his mum always watches – that way she will see he is in Lagos and will come find him. It is lucky that Jomi has a bush baby, Ghost, at his side, because there are many obsctacles to his reunion with mum.
Set in rural Nigeria, and later in Lagos, this book will make you think about how people in other parts (i.e. not Western part) of the world live, that despite our problems and dissatisfaction with the way things are, it can’t compare to life of ordinary people in many places in Africa, where there is no respect for human rights and the law is in the hands of corporations and people with money. That said, it’s not a preachy read, and definitely very enjoyable and fast-paced, with loads of funny as well as sad moments. Suitable for 9+
This is genuinely one of the funniest middle grade series of books i have read. Told in diary format of an 11-year-old about to move up to secondary school The Extremely Embarrassing Life of Lottie Brooks tells of all the disastrous mishaps of Lottie and her bonkers family. Girls 10 and up will resonate with Lottie and the growing pains she goes through. Set in Brighton, told with humour and wit adults will enjoy this as much as kids. Perfect for fans of Dork Diaries. I promise you that once you have read the first you will be hooked to this hilarious series by Katie Kirby.
The fourth book in the Lottie Brooks series is just as hilarious as the last three! This time Lottie is back from her summer holiday and off on a school trip. What could possibly go wrong? A LOT, this is Lottie after all.
If you are not aware of Lottie Brooks books, they are a series of diaries written by Lottie herself, starting when she is 11 and 3/4. They follow the friendships (and fall-outs), crushes and utterly hilarious mishaps as Lottie navigates growing up and surviving secondary school. They are perfect for girls 10 and upwards about to start secondary school.
A beautifully written book, set in Paris during World War II.
Safiyyah’s family is Muslim, they live in the Grand Mosque of Paris. Despite all the horrors they see when German soldiers arrive in Paris, at least they are safe, as Germans are reluctant to target Muslims.
Gradually Safiyyah starts noticing that her Baba is behaving differently and finally finds out why – he and other Muslim men have been helping Jews around town, providing them with fake documents and smuggling them out of Paris into the countryside. Due to circumstances they are forced to allow Safiyyah to join their efforts, and she is a massive help, especially when her Jewish friend Hana moves in with them after her parents have been arrested.
Culminating in a great escape, this is a book you’ll finish in one go! For the first time I found out about the Grand Mosque’s help against the Nazis, while the book also depicts beautiful scenes of life in a Muslim family, as well as glimpses into Jewish traditions. Definitely worth a read for any 10+ history buff!
This is a very unusual book in regards of the topic it talks about.
Ellie and her friend Justin were in an accident, and they both end up in afterlife, with other children who’d been in horrible accidents. But Ellie’s family is expecting her baby brother and Ellie desperately wants to return to the world of living to meet him, even if she’s a ghost. Will she succeed? And why are her and Justin separated after arriving in the underworld?
This is a beautiful, elegiac story for 10+, based on Greek mythology, but beacuse it’s about children dying and afterlife, I would recommend this book to be bought only if you know the child you’re giving it to very well and are sure they won’t be upset by it. Definitely worth picking up though!
I love Roman Bright, and you will too. Roman is an openly gay, queer and non-binary teenager in a small northern town. And they are FABULOUS.
Follow Roman’s intriguing story, full of mystery, revelations, synaesthesia(!), friendship and resilience. And fabulous items of clothing that have names and personalities … Vivid, funny, warm, and intelligent, loved the art references and the setting – can’t wait to read more about Roman.
Wow! This thriller puts a whole new meaning to edge-of-your-seat.
Six teenagers are driving down in an RV to spend spring break partying, but a wrong turn turns deadly. In the middle of nowhere, with no phone signal and a sniper hiding in the bushes making sure no-one leaves, can they survive the night? One of them has a secret that is preventing them from leaving, but they are all hiding someting. Friendships and their mental health are about to be seriously tested.
Set across eight terrifying hours I couldn’t put this thriller down. I was reading through squinted eyes as I kept thinking the worst and didn’t want to know what happens next but just couldn’t stop. I loved Holly Jackson’s “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder” but personally I’d say “Five Survive” is ten times better.
When Freya is fitted with temporary ileostomy bag on her stomach she refuses to acknowledge that this is now her life. She wants nothing to do with it, won’t look at it or change it, and if she can’t bear it how will anyone else?
As a last resort her parents send her to a camp with others in a similar position to hers, in a final hope to force her to come to terms with her situation. But Freya refuses to accept that this is long term, she doesn’t need help and she doesn’t need these people to be her friends … or does she?
Full of feelings and friendships this novel is a funny, honest and insightful YA novel about literally getting your sh!t together when it all goes to pot.
It had me shouting at Freya, laughing at Freya and opened my eyes to a world I knew nothing about. A great read and thoroughly enjoyable. Suitable for 12+
Charity is working at Camp Mirror Lake, an immersive game based on a famous horror film, where visitors pay to try to “survive” the night.
With just a few nights left, things start getting weird and staff are disappearing. As the real secrets of Camp Mirror Lake start emerging, can Charity live up to the last girl character she plays and survive the night?
I loved this awesome horror. Perfect for classic slasher film fans like “Friday 13th”. This is a fast paced, terrifying novel that will send shivers up your spine. Slightly gory in places that will definitely make you squirm, this chilling novel is suitable for 14+
Perhaps it was all the hype this got in February, perhaps I had just had a spell of reading lots of thrillers, whatever the case I didn’t pick this book up for ages…well…that was a mistake because it’s INCREDIBLE.
A seriously gritty YA mystery about 3 boys who must investigate their principals Murder to clear their names. The novel is told through various different people and is guaranteed to keep you hooked until the last page.
An utterly fantastic thriller that shows how the system can often condemn black and Latino boys to failure before they’ve even had a chance to succeed.
Perfect for fans of Ace of Spades and The Hate You Give. Read it, read it, read it!
There is absolutely nothing to not love about this novel. A brilliant coming of age YA novel of unlikely friendships, finding yourself and standing up for what you believe in. Everyone loves Shara, she’s gorgeous, popular and a grade A student so when she suddenly vanishes Chloe, Rory and Smith are determind to find her. With absolutely nothing in common other than Shara kissed each of them before she disappearred the three start following the clues of the scavenger hunt Shara left behind for them. Full of Humour, romance and an array of loveable and inclusive characters. This is the perfect beach read for 13+
This book is just so lovely and completely unputdownable!
Partly based on Elizabeth Laird's childhood, it tells the story of twelve-year-old Charity Brown and her big family. They are members of a small religous group and are living their lives "apart" from the modern world - they don't go to the cinema, wear make up or do many other things that are completely accepted in wider society. But as Charity grows older and her siblings start moving away from their newly-inherited big house where her faimly looks after "the weary and the heavy laden", she starts making new friends and discovering her own truths about the world.
A proper coming-of-age novel, and (I don't usually say this) a future classic. Suitable for 11+.
This is genuinely one of the best books I have read this year. From page one I loved every second reading and laughing.
When Jesse is told that he will need to have open heart surgery in 4 weeks time he is determind to complete two tasks, 1. film his epic zombie film, Zombie Honeymoon and 2. Get his first ever boyfriend, because who could possibly find him attractive when he has an almighty scar?
William Hussey is hilarious, while still writing a brilliant novel about body image, self acceptance, friendship and first loves. Broken Hearts and Zombie Parts is the epitome of Rom-com.
Loved it so much. my must read pick for teens 14+
Seventeen year old Madhu loves, and lives Comedy- it’s her dream to be a stand-up comedian but her dad wants her to study law. She’s not so sure that’s right for her but she feels the weight of her family’s expectations. She has been struggling with (avoiding) finishing her uni application, A level studies and her comedy routine while working shifts at a pizza restaurant and navigating a difficult home situation. Her older sister has been kicked out of home and isn’t answering her texts, and Madhu feels guilty that she didn’t stand up to their father.
Madhu is confident and hilarious in real life but freezes on her first open mic performance and runs off stage. Then a video of her calling out her friend’s cheating boyfriend goes viral, and she gets her big chance … but it isn’t without its own problems and subterfuge … and she has to deal with other people’s agendas too.
This book is warm, witty and insightful, full of heart, and with great characters, especially Madhu herself.
A book about friendship, grief and belonging, a true adventure story that will stay with you for a long time. As all Lesley Parr’s books, it is a must read!
Jason and his big brother Richie are in financial difficuties after the death of their parents. But Jase and his friends have a plan to get a nice sum of money – find and photograph the Beast of Blaengarw. Filled with fun and danger, their adventure proves to be more than they expected.
Set in the 70s in Wales, against the backdrop of miners’ strikes and thre-day working weeks, this book shows young readers a part of history we don’t usually see in children’s books.
Cosima lives in the Home for Unfortunate Girls, where the government put all children with disabilities, no matter if they have a family or not. For Cos this has been the only home she’s ever known, and it has not been fun.
One day a strange man called Lord Fitzroy arrives at the Home, and the girls overhear that he wants to adopt all the girls who live there. He’s an incredibly wealthy man, and when the children start to dig into his past, they realise that many things about him are very dodgy. They plan a big heist to get away from him and to secure their future, but they will have to be cunning as life for a disabled child in the 19th century isn’t easy.
This is a daring adventure, with many mysteries to solve, a proper villain and some great leading characters that will make you root for them from page 1.
Featuring characters with physical disabilities as well as neurodiverse characters, it also touches on the topic of colonialism, so definitely worth a read!
Meet Sunshine Simpson. She is ten years old. She was born in England and her heritage is Jamaican.
Sunny is a feisty, loveable heroine, who is facing big changes in her life and it all gets a bit too much. Friends turned enemies, home-made haircuts and an upcoming school show are only part of her problems, but with good friends and a suportive family at her side, Sunshine is able to deal with even bigger issues.
I dare you not to love this story! All about the importance of family and believing in yourself, it will make you laugh and definitely cry as well. It is also full of interesting facts about the Windrush generation and generally an empowering read, full of diverse characters. Most suitable for 9+.
Spencer wakes up in hospital having been in a car crash, with no memory of the accident that has killed another passenger and got Ethan, her now ex boyfriend arrested. Determined to piece back together her memory of what happened that evening, spencer starts ivestigating. But no one seems to want to talk about it and when Spencer starts being annoyomously threatened to stop investigating she puts her life at risk because what if Ethan is actually innocent and this wasn't an accident after all?
A thriller that will keep you guessing, perfect for fans of Holly Jackson's A Good Girls Guide to Murder.
With themes of drugs and references to sex this book is not suitable for younger teens
Any lover of theatre and other performing arts will fall in love with this book! It has magic, a great adventure, a magnificent villain and feisty children – a perfect read!
Wondria is a school for performing arts, but with a difference. The children attending it have magical powers – their singing makes you levitate, you join in with their dancing and the props can come alive. But when Harper joins the travelling boarding school, it seems her dreams have turned into a nightmare – the Four Curses have been awakened and it might just be Harper’s Fault …
No wonder they call this book a mix between The Night Circus and The Greatest Showman, it’s fabulous!
One of the loveliest books I’ve read in quite a while. The children in the story swore that they will have an unforgetable summer and by the end of the book you know that this came true. One child becomes a stowaway, one meets his long lost grandmother and the third accepts her extended family – and in the process they manage to save their beloved Ravenwood and the big ash Ygg from developers, and they have a marevllous time doing it.
A book about friendship and belonging, about protecting what’s dear to us and not going down without a fight.
Every child wishes to have a proper summer adventure and this book will transport you to one of those!
This must-read is suitable for anyone from 9 to eternity.
Gabriel is a talented pickpocket and quite a misfit. When he is recruited into Crookhaven, a school for thieves, Gabriel finally has somewhere he belongs. The thieves in this school (and book) are of a different kind – they’re a modern day version of Robin Hood, and despite being crooks, they will one day go out into the world to do good.
The idea of this school is brilliant, and it has all the components of a great boarding school story, with all the interesting classes and troubles of friendship. We get to read all about different talents a good crook has to have, and see how they hone their trade. And there is also something special about Gabriel and his Grandma, but I’m not giving that away.
A very interesting read, with a mystery at it’s centre which will make you wait for the sequel (coming in autumn this year!)
Hilarious picture book about sharing feelings. Fish and Crab are settling down for the night , but Fish has worries. Crab suggests Fish shares them all so they can both get a good night’s sleep. Cue a list of funny ‘what ifs’, including one that made me laugh out loud!
A funny and reassuring read about sharing your full range of emotions. Beautiful simple illustrations with a lovely colour palette, a different cover illustration under the dust jacket, and textured lettering on the cover, love the attention to detail.
This is one of the most addictive YA books I have read in ages.
Luca is in the first group of teenagers that have been selected to go to a happiness retreat. The retreat promises to show teenagers how to be happy through a series of different tasks. To make his parents proud Luca answers with what he thinks people want to hear, but as the weeks pass it soon appears that the retreat is not what they lead people to believe and things start to get sinister.
A gripping, fast paced, absolutely awesome novel
ITS AMAZING!!
Set in a post apocalyptic world when a virus has spread killing most of the population. Jamison is all alone in a cabin in the woods until one day an injured Andrew turns up. As the two form a strong bond they embark on a journey across America, finding themselves and each other in the process.
A book that will stay with you long after you’ve finished.
Also so excited to hear yesterday that a sequel is in the pipeline.
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Set in the near future of advanced and powerful technology. Asha comes home to find her sister, Maya murdered. Determined to find out why and sure it’s something to do with the “special project” that Maya was working on at Zu Tech, Asha is thrown into the dark world of hacking and VR gaming, a world she thought she had left behind. But when Asha starts to discover the secrets of Zu Tech’s newest game SHACKLE the more sinister it gets.
This is a gripping, fast paced and exciting murder mystery with a sci-fi twist. As a HUGE YA thriller fan A Game of Life and Death is 100% a must read. Suitable for 14+
When you finish a book and just want to immediately read it all over again…That’s when you know you have read an amazing book!
Hotel Magnifique needs to be put on any any YA fantasy lovers to read list. Full of magic, wonder and adventure I absolutely LOVED it.
Everyone dreams of visiting the magical hotel, to see the wonders within. So when it visits Durc hiring for new staff, sisters Jani and Zosa are swept into a life of adventure but when Jani begins to notice a more sinister side to the hotel can she discover the true price paid by those who live and work there before it’s too late?
A story of adventure and bravery, about facing your fears. Pony the (really) long awaited new novel from R J Palacio, author of Wonder will not disappoint. Absolutely LOVED it. Set in 1860s after his father is taken by wanted criminals, desperate to find him, Silas, his friend Mittonwood(who only he can see) and a mysterious pony, leave their cabin in the woods to set out on adventure that will change their lives and what they knew forever. Set like an atmospheric western This book is absolutely fantastic and will be enjoyed by adults as much children.
This is the most beautifully written, atmospheric YA book I have read in a seriously long time.
Jack’s dad is in prison, his mum has just died, the house is being reprocessed and they have no money. Desperate to take care of his little brother Matty and stop him going into care, Jack has no choice but to find the briefcase of money his dad has hidden. However, Jack isn’t the only one looking for the briefcase…Now Jack is being hunted.
Trust no-one, hide, find the case, look after Matty...And then Jack meets Ava….
A book about survival, strength and how far you go for the ones you love.
So much love for this brilliant book. I didn't want it to end. A gripping read Suitable for 14+
Jess and Summer are both scholarship students struggling to fit into the world of the rich at Heybuckle Boarding School. When Hugh's body is found in the woods it comes to light that a short story that was written by the girls has been used as inspiration for the murder and suddenly, they are prime suspects.
Terrified to lose their scholarship the girls start investigating trying to solve the murder and clear their names. But when their investigating gets dangerous and starts bringing up dark, buried secrets it's a race against time before they become the next victims.
Murders, secret societies and full of twists and turns this thriller is completely addictive and will keep you guessing all the way through.
Perfect for 13+ and fans of A Good Girls Guide to Murder and The Magpie Society
A funny and sweet diary of a teenage girl. Ellery(who is slightly neurotic) and her best friend Meg are characters that you can’t help but fall in love with.
The female version of Adrian Mole for todays teens. Family, friends and first crushes i loved this novel. A great read that will make you laugh and smile throughout.
Delve into an alternate world where magic exits alongside the everyday and the village is protected by an ancient hedge – and Brownies is for witches! Full of talking animal sidekicks, shapeshifters and goblins.
A gorgeous wintery story, perfect for the snowy days we are having. Stevie has made a huge mistake; she’s got until midnight to show how much she loves Sola or this could be the end of their relationship. Roping in all of her friends to help, Stevie has a big romantic gesture planned to win her back. When Atlanta is suddenly hit by a freak snow storm causing utter chaos can Stevie still pull it off? Told in the form of intertwining short stories from one very snowy night and different love stories of all the characters involved in their quest to get to and help Stevie. A beautifully written romantic novel that I totally loved.
An absolutely gorgeous and funny book about the magic of Christmas. When the Humbugs are judged and thrown out of the North Pole they decide to go on holiday and experience a human Christmas. It is here that they learn Christmas magic isn't all about the toys it's the people. However, with the North Pole falling apart without them can they save the day before Christmas is cancelled altogether. Full of brilliant characters and Elf word interpretations not only will this book have you laughing and eating ALOT of mince pies but will also give you a warm fuzzy feeling and be pleased that you are a little different from everyone else.
An addictive and compelling reimagining of Rumpelstiltskin. A brilliant gothic fantasy thats full of dark humour that is impossible to put down. As soon as you finish you will be desperate for the sequel and i promise it as just as good.
This is such a lovely book. After meeting Einstein at London Zoo, the Stewarts invite him to stay whenever he likes, but they weren't expecting him to turn up that night. Needing help to find his friend Einstein enlists the help of Arthur and Imogen as set out on a fantasticly funny and suprising adventure. Perfect for fans of paddington Bear. I loved this book.
One of the BEST adventure books I’ve read in a long time. The world is no longer like we know it, an Evil president has taken over and is desperate for more power than anyone has ever known. When Robert and Rachel(excellent choice of name for a main character) help their father steal a forbidden book their lives change forever. To survive, stop the president from his evil plans and find their father they must find out the secrets of the book and what really is the missing page all about.
With twists and turns throughout will they discover the magical truth about the book? Stop it falling into the wrong hands? Save the day?
An epic read for 9/10+ that I really couldn’t put down and loved every second!
It’s amazing! The wait is over the new Frances Hardinge is out now. I loved it.
In a world where anyone can curse someone there’s only one person who can unravel them.
Kellen has a gift of being able to unravel curses. His trusty ally Nettle was once cursed herself and now the two travel around together helping those cursed.
When Kellen himself gets cursed potentially turning his gift deadly and someone is trying to hunt them down, they find themselves on a mission that will change everything.
An absolutely marvellous YA fantasy novel.
Bold statement I know but I personally think Karen M McManus’s new thriller Nothing More to Tell is her best since One of Us is Lying!
4 years ago Mr Larkin, a teacher from Saint Ambrose School was found murdered in the Woods by 3 students. After 3 years away, Brynn has just moved back and got an internship at Motive, a true crime tv show. Brynn starts investigating the unsolved case but with a list of suspects that continues to grow who are all trying to hide their own secrets will the truth ever be known?
With many subplots the twists just keep coming and every time you think you’ve worked it out another suspect is thrown into the mix.
A fantastic thriller that you won’t be able to put down. No Karen M McManus fan will be disappointed and anyone who loved A Good Girls Guide to Murder, this is for you.
Also loved the very small One Of Us is Lying reference.
This is a totally gorgeous love story! Dani is just concentrating on leaving Detroit and going to school at NYU to be a writer. But something happened last year that has caused her to push all her friends away and has now given her writers block. Prince, love’s love and music and is the local radios love advise guru, but due to his home life he can’t possibly leave Detroit and pursue his dreams.
When Prince bumps into Dani in the Library, he convinces her to give him 3 dates, at the end she will surely be in love with him. During their time together, they inspire and help each other face up to their fears and find out who they truly are.
Told with humour and warmth I just wanted to keep reading this novel forever!
Wellllllll, this was one addictive YA read! A near future dystopian novel. The Arcadia cruise ship has been home to many, they have lived and died on the water for more than 40 years. Ruled by the Coaly’s who work for and support the Federated State. As laws start tightening, rations being cut and Coaly’s on the warpath, something is definitely up. When Esther is forced to save Nik’s life little did she know that she would be dragged into a whole new world of gangs and the rebellion, trying to prevent the ship and its inhabitants being “cleared” and releasing its grip from the Coaly’s.
A brilliant book told from the point of view of Nik, Esther and Hadley(Head Coaly) that’s perfect for fans of The Hunger Games and Divergent. I loved it!
Bear and Ruby are running out of time to save their inventor dad from the evil Wendy Wedge who is determined to win the Golden Shoe Award and ruin his career. This book has me chuckling away to myself, full of adventure, awesome shoes(Mine are far to dull) and shoe puns galore
I devoured The Magpie Society, What a book!!! I’m not sure how to express my love for this thriller, definitely the one of the best i have read.
Beautiful non fiction.
Tons of facts, presented in an accessible, infographic style - stylish illustrations,and at the back, a list of sources and sites for further information and study. (Great endpapers too!)
Sophie's Stories is about a little girl who loves her books so much she always wants 'Just one more story'
Beautiful pencil crayon and watercolour wash, the illustrations perfectly encapsulate what it is to be lost in a book ( and I love the bit at the end of the book about Sophie's mum looking forward to reading her own book in bed)
The story follows the intergalactic journey of two dads to find and adopt a child to make their forever family. Beautifully illustrated by Judi Abbot- the colours glow. I loved the quirky space theme - the dads come from a planet where everyone is called Tim! Warm, moving and reassuring.
In this book you can get up close to the tiny wonders of Earth's landbound ecosystems
Beautiful gouache and watercolour illustrations packed full of detail, and lots and lots of flaps -I loved he tiny ants ! The book has an interesting layout- I love it when the format changes, such as the spread of the oak tree where you have to turn the book sideways.
This is an unusual and beautiful non fiction picture book- it describes itself as 'a spotting book' - You follow the story on each page and find the details mentioned in the text. At the back are lots of facts and information about the animals featured in the story.
Beautiful illustrations in watercolour and pencil crayon with lots of decorative detail
From small acts of kindness to life saving inventions, every person in this book has found their passion – or their superpower. Inspiring book about ordinary people doing extraordinary things. A fun combination of text and comic strip, from the author of Stories for Boys Who Dare To Be Different
I love picture books that break the rules - this one disregards the usual format- it is a tall narrow book that you immediately have to turn on its side to read, with the top page showing above ground, and the bottom page the Mole's home underground. vivid fluorescent colours and strong black, this has a wonderful printmakerly feel, you almost feel like you will have inky fingers after reading
The most joyful inclusive book I have seen this year! A a simple message, there are all sorts of bodies, and they are all cool! Fun ,strongly defined illustrations packed with pictures of real people.
Beautiful Day! Petite Poems for All Seasons by Rodoula Pappa and gorgeous watercolour and line art by Seng Soun Ratanavanh
The most lovely picture book, with text written in haiku, - even more beautiful when you remove the dustjacket- would be perfect for a gift or to keep for yourself...
HIKE by Pete Oswald - an (almost) wordless picture book, although the only words are sounds - the story describes a father and child going on a hike, and all the action takes place in the space of one day, from waking up to going to sleep - a beautiful calm story, with lots of detail and room to make up your own story - there is a lot of love in this book, a celebration of fathers. Gorgeous illustrations - especially the light through the door on the first spread.
The hilarious Duck, Duck, Dad? by Lorna Scobie. A dog walks by some eggs as they are hatching, and the little ducklings think he is their dad...really funny with a twist later on....lively watercolour and pencil crayon illustrations, varied layouts, great fun!
Are We There Yet? by Dan Santat- The story of a car journey to Grandma's and in the little boy's imagination time slows down.....vivid illustrations, imaginatively designed, the text leads you to turn around the page so it feels as if you are going backwards in time along with the boy, amazingly inventive use of type layout. Very impressed.
Measuring Up by Lily LaMotte and Ann Xu -the story of twelve year old Cici who has just moved from Taiwan to Seattle- and her attempts to win a cooking contest to earn the money to bring her grandmother to visit to celebrate her seventieth birthday. With themes of identity, acceptance, friendship, parental pressure, and cooking - with Julia Childs! -
My Dad by Susan Quinn and illustrated by Marina Ruiz - a lovely story celebrating not only how great Dad is, but how great time spent with Dad is. Beautiful softly coloured and textured illustrations with inky transparency - I particularly love the picture of other people being 'super busy'
After forcing myself to stop reading last night, I finished this masterpiece with my breakie this morning.
Such a brilliant read, I have struggled from the moment I started to put it down. A thought provoking thriller that deals with racism as well as so many other real issues.
Gossip Girls meets One of Us Is Lying, #aceofspadesbook is definitely going to the next the next big book being shout about In YA fiction. An absolute must read, loved it! Sooooo good!
A atmospheric, thrilling, full of twists vampire novel. For older readers(like myself) it’s a real nostalgic throwback to the 90s with a real cult classic feel(a Spotify list should be made) For the modern day teen it’s an awesome gothic novel that fans of Stranger Things, Sabrina and Buffy will really enjoy, it will make you want to watch all the classic vampire films and visit New Orleans-it really is just like the descriptions(I cannot comment on the vampires mind). A thoroughly enjoyable read and nice to read something a little different in YA.
Also throughout the whole book I kept saying this would make a brilliant tv series, so if it happens(I hope) you heard it here first!
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Our pick of the month for June was A Glasshouse of Stars by Shirley Marr, because we absolutely love it!
Moving to a whole new country where she doesn’t know anyone is already difficult enough for Meixing, but when she notices that the house in which she lives is changing - adding or vanishing rooms without rhyme or reason, that is SCARY! And there is a mysterious glasshouse in the garden, which has a very unique gatekeeper.
A powerful story of kindness, resilience and imagination based on the author’s childhood experience of migration.
A perfect read for 9+ and every Neil Gaiman fan.
I love this book! I love the startling fluorescent colours, the characters, the crazy rhyming story, the typography acrobatics, and not many children's books have the word 'cravat'!
Charming, funny book, inventively illustrated, love the attention to detail in the illustrations, nice reminder to look after your books too! The hardback version has a nice cover though, I'd get that one. See our blog post too for more detail.
I truly enjoyed this middle grade novel, Moo by Sharon Creech. Written in verse it tells about a family from the city who move to rural Maine. The new skills the children acquire and the friendships they make while getting used to life in the countryside were so inspiring. And the beautiful Maine setting made me want to visit - New England, here I come (one day)!
Fun and colourful book with inventive use of die cut holes, Lots to see on every page, and simple text- the perfect book for pre schoolers
What If, Pig? by Linzie Hunter.-'A pig, a mouse and a whole wobble of worries'
Pig is a very good friend to a lot of people, but he is also a worrier...When this threatens to spoil the party he has planned, his friend Mouse knows just what to do. A sweet story for overthinkers of all ages. I loved the illustration style, the characters and all the little details - check out the names on the invites- and the final scene where everyone else reveals their own insecurities is terrific - my favourite is 'I worry that no one can tell I'm a horse' an illustrator joke for sure.
Talking Is Not My Thing by Rose Robbins - a lovely simple story told partly in thought bubbles -' I don't speak, But my brother finds it easy' Boldly drawn, softly coloured illustrations tell the tale of a day in the life of two siblings and their different ways of communicating.
Booktrust describes it as ' a celebration of diversity and neurodiversity, but also quite simply a lovely picture book to share with any child'
The New Girl by Nicola Davies, illustrated by Cathy Fisher 'The new girl didn't look like us.She didn't understand a thing we said, even when we shouted..' The poignant story of a newcomer to the school, the initial indifference and cruelty of her classmates: 'Every day we laughed at her. We caught cruelty like a cold that drew the winter down around us all.' Until something beautiful appears, and makes them really see her...(you need to see the book to fully appreciate this) Exquisite watercolour illustrations by Cathy Fisher capturing the atmosphere perfectly, bringing the characters into sharper focus as the story progresses. Great read for empathy.
Sam is a foster child who really, really, REALLY wants to be adopted. So he comes up with The Perfect Parent Project to find the perfect parents for himself. He has everything planned out and knows exactly what kind of parents he wants, but life is full of surprises and he might need to look closer to home for his forever family.
This book is very funny and at times heartbreaking, and definitely worth a read! You will also get a new understanding of children in care and how the system works.
Laughter is the best therapy so I am prescribing The Incredible Record Smashers to absolutely everyone. Sandesh and Lucy are such an unlikely duo but perfect together in this absolute smasher of a book. Genuinely hilarious with so many funny shenanigans I was cackling away constantly, also Aunty Sheila is bonkers and I want her in my life.
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If My Dad Were The Tooth Fairy by Mark Sperring, illustrated by Matt Hunt. A delightful rhyming story of a little girl working out the pros and cons of her dad having a more 'high-flying job' as a toothfairy!
Hilarious story, distinctive illustrations- great characterization, lovely pencil crayony textures and sophisticated colour palette.
FACTOPIA! by Kate Hale, illustrated by Andy Smith - with fun innovative design, typography, and layout, making a list of facts visually arresting - I love the little diversions that lead you to other facts
With beautiful restricted colour palette illustrations and quirky text design, I think this will be a big hit with young non fiction fans.
Miss Molly's School of Kindness -by Zanna Davidson and Rosie Reeve, about '... three little fox cubs who are struggling to be kind until they stumble across Miss Molly's School of Kindness ...' ...Cute book, with a bit of a Richard Scarry-type feel and a great message about behaviour and being kind - I particularly like 'some thoughts are best kept to yourself'
You don't often see Lesser Spotted Woodpeckers in children's books... but there are two in Peck Peck Peck- a lovely new board book from Lucy Cousins, well known for her Maisy Mouse books - this lovely brightly coloured book has diecut holes to illustrate the story, in a way that reminds me of the very hungry caterpillar - great fun!
THE PET, an hilarious picture book form Catherine Emmett and David Tazzyman (illustrator of Mr Gum and You Can't Take the Elephant on the Bus) about the perils of choosing a pet if you aren't prepared to look after it - the subtitle Cautionary Tales for Children and Grown Up gives a hint of the flavour of this book, which has a Hilaire Belloc-type flavour ( and ending) I think parents will enjoy this as much as children.
It was a quick read and fun read (300 pages of fast paced pleasure).
New Orleans, with two sisters who come from Whitby, it made me keep reading.
Your typical YA story - told in a completely new way.
I was obsessed and is everything I LOVE all rolled into one, so of course I really enjoyed this book!
Perfect for fans of Buffy and The Vampire Diaries.
Mina and the Undead was one of my most anticipated books of the year. I couldn’t put it down from the moment I started. Loveable, easy to root for characters. Awesome plot & twists coming at you left right and center. Some parts were quite intensely brilliant and I did get emotional a couple of times.
5*
I’ve read this multiple times now and honestly enjoyed it every time and even having learnt the twists after the first read, the plot is strong and you realise the easter egg clues you previously missed.
If you know someone who could watch movies on a loop indefinitely but isn't into reading and you would like them to get into reading but have never found the right book yet, Mina and the Undead is one to consider. Here’s my reasoning...
*It reads very cinematically and isn’t over descriptive.
*It revolves around a Horror Movie Tour Mansion.
*It has many pop culture references to the 1980s/1990s – movies, actors, music, lifestyles etc.
*Its chapter lengths are relatively short to allow for reading breaks (but the chapter cliffhangers make it hard to put down).
Hope this review helps!
I absolutely loved this book!!. Narrated in the first-person perspective by Christopher John Francis Boone, a 15-year-old boy who describes himself as "a mathematician with some behavioural difficulties" living in Swindon, Wiltshire, it tells the story of Christopher's adventures investigating the mysterious death of his neighbour's dog. Throughout his adventures, Christopher records his experiences in a book, which he calls a "murder mystery novel". Without giving anything away, the book ends with Christopher optimistic about his future, having solved the mystery of the murdered dog, written a book about his adventures, and achieved an A in his A-level maths exam.
I read this sometime ago but am now reading it again.
I bought this wonderful book for my 5 year old goddaughter - she's been captivated buy it and is absolutely loving it. A perfect recommendation by Rachel (who also ordered me a couple of more grown-up books for myself at the same time!). Thank you so much!
Review of Rory Branagan Den of Danger
By Joe
If you like a good laugh you will love Rory Branagan. It’s utterly amazing. You will be sad when you finish it because you will want to read more, lots and lots and lots and lots more.
Rory Branagan is a boy who turns detective to find his missing dad. In this book (the sixth book in a seven part series) he finds someone who can help him remember where his dad is!
If you do not like Rory Branagan you are mad Rory Branagan is BOOMTASTIC!!!!!!!
A can’t put you down book that leaves you hanging wanting more. I can’t wait for the next volume in the Book of Dust series. This book follows an adult Lyra as she struggles to resolve the relationship issues with Pantamalion. There are twists and turns as a number of threads follow Malcolm’s story as well as Pantamalion while he looks for what he feels Lyra has lost. Another thrilling tale that twists and turns while leaving you wanting more.
Theres a new thriller writer in town!
Perfect for fans of One of Us is Lying and Good Girls Guide to Murder. This a fast paced, edge of your seat thriller will no doubt keep you hooked and guessing till the very last page. I genuinely loved it.
*not suitible for younger readers*
This is a great prequel to Phillip Pullman's His Dark Materieals Trilogy. You don't have had to read them to enjoy this great adventure which explains how Lyra ends up at Jordan College.
Follow Malcolm and Alice's adventure as they save the baby Lyra from a flood and people looking to harm a little baby. I found this an exciting and a book I couldn't put down until I reached the end. If you haven't read His Dark Materials this book will want you to read more about Lyra and Pantamalion's adventures.
Timmy Failure and his business partner Total, his pet polar bear, are an unlikely but often effective crime fighting duo. He has everyone's best interests at heart but things don't always go to plan along the way.
I very much enjoyed reading the entire Timmy series and would recommend this series to any young reader looking for a humorous story with a bit of a mystery. This series also encounters friends, bullies and family situations for Timmy to navigate and overcome.
Helpful hints;
- Perfect for fans of Tom Gates and Wimpy Kid
- Styled in standard book form rather than journal format
- Illustrations throughout but not overwhelming each page
I LOVE Isadora Moon! Harriet has created a world where Isadora has to navigate the world and new experiences for herself, with advice from her parents as they don't quite have the first hand experience. One of my favourite scenes in the book is when Isadora's classmates receive their party invites but also when the children arrive at the party in fancy dress and...who am I kidding...the entire book is fantastic!
This series is perfect for readers ready for chapter books and a magical adventure.
Helpful hints;
- Smaller spaced text that is easy to digest
- Engaging illustrations on every page
- Amusing and enjoyable for both adults and children
And then she makes the Ocean Squid Explorers club. *Sigh*
It's imaginative and full of fun and mysteries! These four children create such a great team and are always reminding myself of me and my friends. I am currently waiting for the fourth book (If there is one!) to come out and I can't wait! My favorite character is Shay Silverton Kipling and I despised Ethan too but give the kid a chance! I believe this is my favorite book series right up there with Skulduggery Pleasant. I hope she continues to write the books and I can't wait! 😀
Love you Alex Bell
I'm your biggest fan.
This book is wonderful. The illustrations are beautiful and so colourful. I bought this book for my 5 year old, however its my 3 year old who is truly captivated by it. He takes it to bed each night & loves looking at the drawings. Each page is like a game of hide & seek with all the many animals and he loves nothing more than trying to find all the different animals and species. There is however a very important message within the book which got him asking lots and lots of questions which he may not have asked otherwise. It’s a joy to read this book to him.
it is an amazing book, I read it and I absolutely loved it, it was a brilliant book, I couldn't stop reading!
Tells a great story! Very deep; would recommend to teachers to pick apart with their students.
Slowcoach : A feel-good teen summer romance - Reviewed by Rach