Book Review, Picture Books

A Little Bit Worried by Ciara Gavin & illustrated by Tim Warnes

Sometimes we become so focussed on keeping safe that we lose our sense of fun. Worries take over and anxiety gets the better of us. Weasel is just minding his own business when the weather changes. Rain, wind and hail make him feel small and defenceless. He decides to build a strong house where he… Continue reading A Little Bit Worried by Ciara Gavin & illustrated by Tim Warnes

Book Review, Picture Books

I Love Mummy Every Day by Isabel Otter & illustrated by Alicia Mas

This sturdy, colourful board book is the perfect gift for little ones to give to their mummies on Mother’s Day. It is full of appreciation for everything mummies do and all the ways they are special. With peek-a-boo windows, bright colours and diverse families, this charming book beautifully depicts each mummy as a wonderful role… Continue reading I Love Mummy Every Day by Isabel Otter & illustrated by Alicia Mas

Book Review, Middle Grade Fiction

Rolo’s Story by Blake Morgan

Rolo’s Story is another touching tale from the Dog’s Eye View series. Full of personality and heart-warming friendship, it helps young readers understand what life is really like for dogs who are mistreated, live life on the street and are longing for a forever home. When we meet Rolo, he thinks he doesn’t need a… Continue reading Rolo’s Story by Blake Morgan

Book Review, Picture Books

The Invisible by Tom Percival

February 2021 The Invisible is a beautiful and powerful story of identify and sense of self. Everyone is someone and everyone is important. This is a wonderful picture book for building empathy and helping young readers to understand issues of poverty and valuing each individual. Isabel always notices the beautiful things in life. She is… Continue reading The Invisible by Tom Percival

Book Review, Middle Grade Fiction

Featherlight by Peter Bunzl

April 2021 Featherlight is a beautifully magical adventure from the wonderful Peter Bunzl and the amazing Barrington Stoke. Deryn’s father is the lighthouse keeper on Featherstone Island. When he and her mother have to go to the mainland, Deryn is left alone to keep watch. As the only people who live on the island, it… Continue reading Featherlight by Peter Bunzl

Book Review, Middle Grade Fiction

Dragon Legend: Dragon Realm Series by Katie & Kevin Tsang

April 2021 After being left on an incredible cliff-hanger at the end of Dragon Mountain, the first book in the Dragon Realm series, Dragon Legend picked up the story at high speed and didn’t let up for the entire adventure! Billy Chan is back with his friends, Charlotte Bell and Liu Ling-Fei, and JJ –… Continue reading Dragon Legend: Dragon Realm Series by Katie & Kevin Tsang

Book Review, Middle Grade Fiction, Young Adult

Show Us Who You Are by Elle McNicoll

March 2021 Twelve year old Cora Byers is brave and bold. She is also autistic. She knows who she is (and who she isn’t). Life isn’t always easy (especially since she lost her mum) but she’s learned how to cope and make the best of many challenging situations. She understands what makes her different, even… Continue reading Show Us Who You Are by Elle McNicoll

Book Review, Early Reader

Jasper and Scruff: Take a Bow by Nicola Colton

We always love a cat story and Jasper & Scruff make the perfect cat/dog pair! Take a Bow is the third book in this fun series about a smart kitty and a mucky pup. Their mishaps, personality and long-lasting friendship will carry readers along, giggling away. In this exciting story, the duo discover that the… Continue reading Jasper and Scruff: Take a Bow by Nicola Colton

Book Review, Middle Grade Fiction

Swan Song by Gill Lewis

Empathetic author Gill Lewis has teamed up with Barrington Stoke to create a story where children who don’t fit in or who need something different are able to hear their own voice and feel valued for who they are. Dylan is a Year 8 boy who is struggling at school. Lessons are hard, teachers don’t… Continue reading Swan Song by Gill Lewis

Book Review, Middle Grade Fiction

The Secret Detectives by Ella Risbridger

A life-changing journey on a 19th century ship bound for England, leaving behind everything you’ve ever known, witnessing a murder on a dark night… The Secret Detectives is a gripping Middle Grade mystery with hints of Nancy Drew and The Secret Garden intertwined in its gripping plot. Eleven-year-old Isobel Petty is alone in the world.… Continue reading The Secret Detectives by Ella Risbridger