Book Review, Middle Grade Fiction

He Says… She Says… by Anne Fine & Gareth Conway

Family relationships are key to children's experiences and understanding of the world so books like He Says... She Says... are perfect for young readers. Playing with the funny side of intergenerational dynamics, it allows children to think about their own families and appreciate the time they have together. Skye and Harry will be spending the… Continue reading He Says… She Says… by Anne Fine & Gareth Conway

Book Review, Middle Grade Fiction

The Island Vet: Rescue at Seal Bay by Gill Lewis

I absolutely adored the first The Island Vet adventure, Pirates and Sea Monsters, in which Tia and her mum move to Gull Haven Island and discover a wonderful community of people and animals waiting for them. Tia realises the importance of her mum's job as a vet and is able to help during a storm.… Continue reading The Island Vet: Rescue at Seal Bay by Gill Lewis

Book Review, Middle Grade Fiction

Stories of Family from Barrington Stoke

Tony Bradman and Sally Nicholls write fantastically honest and real stories for children. When Saturday Comes & Too Nice help readers understand the challenges of families splitting up and trying to balance the needs of two parents. When Saturday Comes by Tony Bradman & Tania Rex Daniel loves football! His team, the Haybrook Rockets, are… Continue reading Stories of Family from Barrington Stoke

Chapter Book

New Arrivals at Willow Farm by Helen Peters & Isobel Lundie

Helen Peters writes the most delightful stories from her fun animal adventures to her wartime middle grade mysteries. New Arrivals at Willow Farm, published by Barrington Stoke, is another chance for young readers to see the world through the eyes of animals. The book is split into two stories - "Snowy the Sheepdog" and "Cowslip… Continue reading New Arrivals at Willow Farm by Helen Peters & Isobel Lundie

Book Review, Early Reader

Porky Pies by Ross Montgomery & Marisa Morea

Porky Pies is a brilliant new take on two favourite fairy tales: The Three Little Pigs & The Boy Who Cried Wolf! Follow this mischievous little pig as he pranks the others again and again with "The big bad wolf is back!" This isn't funny! What will happen when the wolf actually shows up? Will… Continue reading Porky Pies by Ross Montgomery & Marisa Morea

Book Review, Chapter Book, Early Reader, Middle Grade Fiction

Super Books from Barrington Stoke

I never cease to be blown away by the quality of the authors who write for Barrington Stoke. In this collection, Holly Webb, Katherine Woodfine, Jenny Pearson and Serena Patel share their talent for reaching children right where they're at - inspiring and encouraging while providing a laugh and a smile along the way. With… Continue reading Super Books from Barrington Stoke

Book Review, Middle Grade Fiction

Little House by Katya Balen

Katya Balen has done it again with an honest and oh so powerful story of family, personal growth and challenging world issues. Little House is a beautiful shorter read with all the accessibility features Barrington Stoke has to offer combined with Katya Balen's distinct style. Written in first person, there is unmistakable character voice and… Continue reading Little House by Katya Balen

Book Review, Chapter Book

Sidney and Carrie Have a Party by Lisa Thompson & illustrated by Jess Rose

Little Gems books from Barrington Stoke are perfect for children in Reception and Key Stage One who are ready to add some variety to their reading diet. Pitched between picture books and chapter books, these early readers give children the feeling of an older book with accessible vocabulary and spacing to help them on their… Continue reading Sidney and Carrie Have a Party by Lisa Thompson & illustrated by Jess Rose

Book Review, Teen

Northern Soul by Phil Earle

First love is never easy. 14-year-old Marv is head over heels for new girl Carly. He doesn't know what to do or where to turn - should he ask his best mate Jimmy or his croc-wearing dad for advice? He's completely out of his depth and not sure either will be much help. Just when… Continue reading Northern Soul by Phil Earle

Book Review, Middle Grade Fiction, Teen, Young Adult

Autumn with Barrington Stoke

It's a pleasure to share some of the new October releases for older readers from Barrington Stoke. Accessible, engaging and so powerful, readers will find the vocabulary choices, font, spacing and page tint make all the difference to their success with each book. This group of action-packed, high-stakes stories are sure to be read, shared… Continue reading Autumn with Barrington Stoke