This Sunday is Day of Hope, which is a beautiful theme for #FridayLibraryRecommendations. This week’s books will make you feel a whole range of emotions, but ultimately leave you feeling hopeful…

My first choice is Hope Is The Thing With Feathers by Emily Dickinson, illustrated by Tim Hopgood, which introduces poetry in a way that feels warm, accessible and visually engaging.

The book follows a small, determined bird as it travels around the world, quietly bringing hope to people wherever it goes. Its soothing song continues through calm moments and stormy weather alike, symbolising the steady, comforting presence of hope in our lives. Even when faced with challenges, the little bird never falters — a message that is both reassuring and inspiring for young readers.

Tim Hopgood’s illustrations are vibrant, expressive and perfectly matched to the tone of Emily Dickinson’s famous words. Each spread invites children to follow the bird’s journey and notice the emotions, colours and landscapes that accompany it. The artwork helps convey the meaning of the poem without overwhelming or simplifying it, making this an ideal introduction to poetry for children aged four and up.

The book includes the full poem at the end, along with a short biography of Emily Dickinson, offering a thoughtful way to extend learning. A hopeful, beautifully crafted read that encourages resilience and optimism through a gentle and uplifting reading experience.

Next, I have picked Arkspire by Jamie Littler, a fantasy adventure set in Arkspire, a bustling city where magic shapes everyday life. The city is ruled and protected by the five Arcanists – powerful magicians whose word is law. Living far below their grand towers is Juniper Bell, a quick-witted young thief who will do anything to support her family, including her endlessly irritating but well-meaning sister, Elodie.

Juni’s world is turned upside down when a stolen relic, which she insists has nothing to do with her, suddenly explodes and reveals a mysterious creature called Cinder. The pair appear to “bond” instantly, a phenomenon the Arcanists claim only happens with creatures that are supposedly dangerous. It isn’t long before these powerful magicians set their sights on Juni, convinced she poses a threat.

What follows is a gripping journey through hidden corners of Arkspire and far beyond. Juni and Cinder are thrust into a world of secrets, magical politics and ancient power struggles, forcing Juni to question everything she thought she knew. With danger closing in, the unlikely duo must rely on courage, loyalty and quick thinking as they uncover the truth. Juni’s hopeful nature shows in her determination, even when it looks like all hope is lost.

Featuring striking illustrations and rich world-building, this is a thrilling read for fans of fantasy and adventure

My final choice is The Last House In The Row by Lesley Parr, a gentle and thoughtful story which explores kindness, understanding and the value of giving others a chance.

It follows Hayley, a young girl who is growing increasingly frustrated that her beloved cat keeps disappearing into the garden of Lillian — an elderly woman who lives alone at the very end of the row. Hayley secretly calls her “Boo”, convinced she’s odd and unapproachable, especially as Lillian hasn’t left her house in years.

However, an unexpected act of kindness soon brings the two together, and Hayley begins to realise that there is much more to Lillian than she first assumed. As their friendship grows, Hayley learns the painful truth behind Lillian’s reluctance to step outside and discovers the loneliness that has shaped her neighbour’s life.

When a misunderstanding threatens to break their fragile new bond, Hayley must find the courage and empathy to put things right. Her determination to support Lillian, and to help her reconnect with the world beyond her doorstep, forms the heart of this tender, uplifting tale. Hayley and Lillian both have far kinder and more hopeful outlooks for each other than they do for themselves, something that many readers will be able to resonate with.

Beautifully written with warmth and compassion, this book encourages young readers to look beyond first impressions and consider what others may be going through. A moving story perfect for sparking conversations about empathy, community and friendship.

Happy reading!

My theme for #FridayLibraryRecommendations this week links to Remembrance Day for Lost Species, which is this Sunday, November 30th. It is a chance each year to explore the stories of extinct and critically endangered species, cultures, lifeways, and ecological communities. 

My first choice this week is Around The World In 80 Endangered Animals by Jess French, illustrated by Brendan Kearney, a vibrant and informative non-fiction book for young readers who are curious about the natural world and the creatures we share it with.

Taking readers on a journey across deserts, oceans, rainforests and frozen landscapes, it introduces 80 endangered animals in an engaging and accessible way. From gentle whale sharks gliding through deep waters to polar bears navigating drifting ice, each page offers a glimpse into the lives of remarkable species facing real challenges.

I love the balance between fascinating facts and clear explanations about why these animals are at risk. The text highlights not only the threats they face but also the inspiring conservation work happening right now to protect them. This encourages children to understand both the fragility of nature and the positive actions that can make a difference.

The book is richly illustrated, making it easy for children to visualise each animal and its habitat. A standout feature is the large pull-out poster on biodiversity, which shows how every species, no matter how small or unusual, helps keep our planet healthy.

Perfect for readers who love animals, geography or science, this is a thoughtful and uplifting introduction to environmental awareness.

My next pick is Land Of The Lost Wildcat by Lui Sit, illustrated by David Dean, an exhilarating debut that combines heart-pounding adventure with a touching exploration of family, friendship, and the importance of preserving our natural world.

This exciting and imaginative adventure follows Puffin Lau, a determined young girl facing two big challenges: her scientist mother barely speaks to her, and a mythical wildcat — the kuri — needs her help to survive. Raised on stories about the kuri’s magical powers, Puffin is determined to return the creature to its rightful home. But standing in her way is the sinister Professor Smoult, a scientist driven by greed who wants to capture the kuri and exploit its magic.

From the moment Puffin encounters the kuri, the action unfolds at a thrilling pace, that kept me on the edge of my seat. The journey to Linger Island is filled with danger, suspense, and moments of magical wonder. The stakes are high, and the story does not shy away from addressing the real-world consequences of greed and exploitation. The kuri’s plight as an endangered species mirrors the real-world struggles faced by countless animals. Lui’s vivid descriptions of the natural world are both beautiful and poignant, encouraging us to think about our own relationship with nature and the importance of protecting it.

I do love a good villain and Lui has definitely given us one in Professor Smoult, whose greed and disregard for the natural world make him perfect for a story centred on conservation and respect for the environment.

The illustrations by David Dean bring key moments of the story to life and add depth to the characters and settings, and capturing the magical essence of the kuri. A must-read for young animal lovers and fans of magical realism that captures the imagination while delivering a powerful message about environmental responsibility.

And finally, I’ve chosen Turtle Moon by Hannah Gold, a warm, exciting and thought-provoking adventure, beautifully complemented by Levi Pinfold’s atmospheric illustrations.

It follows Silver Trevelon, a young girl whose family has been stuck in a quiet sadness ever since the baby sibling they hoped for never arrived. When Silver’s dad is offered the chance to work at a turtle rescue centre in Costa Rica, the family swaps grey skies for tropical heat — and Silver discovers a world alive with colour, wildlife and possibility.

Hannah weaves real-world environmental themes into a gripping story that feels both accessible and meaningful for primary-aged readers. Children will be fascinated by the work of the rescue centre and especially by Silver’s unforgettable encounter with a nesting leatherback turtle. But when the turtle’s eggs mysteriously vanish, the pace quickens. Silver and her new friends must summon courage, resilience and teamwork as they journey deep into the jungle to uncover the truth.

This is a story about hope, healing and the power of young people to make a difference. It balances tension with tenderness, adventure with empathy. Ideal for confident readers aged 8 and up, Turtle Moon is an engaging eco-mystery that may spark brilliant conversations at home about nature, conservation and kindness.

Happy reading!