Captain Whiskers, written by Jeremy Strong and illustrated by Matt Robertson, is a wonderful, laugh out loud story of a boy who desperately wants a pet. Published by Barrington Stoke, it is an appealing “Little Gem” story for young readers (age 5-8). As an early chapter book, it builds confidence through manageable sections of text, short… Continue reading Captain Whiskers by Jeremy Strong
The Shark Caller by Zillah Bethell is a living, breathing story of colourful imagery and magnificent language set on the beautiful island of Papua New Guinea. It is a story of respect and responsibility, the conflict of traditions versus what is perceived to be progress, and a personal search for truth, forgiveness and finding oneself.… Continue reading The Shark Caller by Zillah Bethell
Sequin and Stitch, written by Laura Dockrill and illustrated by Sara Ogilvie, is a wonderfully crafted story of family, dreams and home. It is overflowing with empathy for the struggles and joys faced by so many children. The layers of meaning are stitched together beautifully to create a story that is enjoyable to read yet… Continue reading Sequin and Stitch by Laura Dockrill
The Last Spell Breather by Julie Pike is a unique, spell-binding story of love, family and truth. Eleven-year-old Rayne lives with her mother in their quiet village. Bound by the magic of her family’s past, she is destined to become a spell breather, just like her mother. However, Rayne would much rather be out with… Continue reading The Last Spell Breather by Julie Pike
Nosy Crow, February 2020 This pioneering adventure by British author Karen McCombie is the engaging sequel to Little Bird Flies (published by Nosy Crow in January 2019). Set in mid-nineteenth century America, 15 year-old Bridie (Little Bird) embarks on a new life in the west, leaving her beloved homeland of Scotland behind. Inspired by pioneering… Continue reading Little Bird Lands by Karen McCombie
Brightstorm written by Vashti Hardy and published by Scholastic is a part of the resurgence of high quality middle-grade (age 8-12) literature in the United Kingdom in recent years. Children, parents, teachers, all lovers of timeless stories are absolutely spoilt for choice when looking for their next great read. It is the story of twelve-year-old… Continue reading Brightstorm and the Power of Boy/Girl Twins
Scope for Imagination 