​May is National Share A Story Month, so this week, all of my Friday Library Recommendations are book that contain stories within the story.

My first choice for our youngest readers is There Is No Dragon In This Story by Lou Carter, illustrated by Deborah Allwright, a laugh‑out‑loud picture book that is a joyful twist on classic fairy tales and will delight children and grown‑ups alike.

Poor Dragon just wants to belong, but wherever he turns, he is politely (and sometimes not so politely) sent away. Goldilocks isn’t interested. Hansel and Gretel say no thank you. No one seems to want a dragon in their story at all.

Undeterred, Dragon presses on, fuelled by boundless optimism and a wonderfully earnest belief that someone must need him. Children will adore his persistence and enthusiasm, especially as it becomes increasingly clear that his good intentions may lead to unexpected consequences. And then there’s the sneeze – a gloriously inevitable moment that will have young listeners giggling and gasping in equal measure.

This is a beautifully paced read‑aloud, with expressive illustrations that reward careful looking and repeated readings. Familiar fairy‑tale characters pop up throughout, encouraging children to make connections and predictions as the story unfolds.

Beneath the comedy lies a reassuring message about belonging, resilience and finding your place. A joyful, feel‑good story that works perfectly for Key Stage 1 and is sure to become a firm favourite on the bookshelf.

My next pick is the hilarious The Far-Out Five: Snot Jelly Island by Olaf Falafel. This wildly imaginative adventure is a brilliant burst of fun that will instantly hook young readers.

When a funfair blows into town, everything is turned upside down for Stewart, Sophie, Zainab and Jeffrey – especially when they cross paths with the grumpy (and not entirely successful) magician, the Great Waldini. One magical mishap later, the children find themselves transformed into the unforgettable Far‑Out Five, whisked far from home with the one thing that could fix everything frustratingly lost.

The cast of characters is gloriously absurd and guaranteed to raise smiles: from Spewnicorn, a punk unicorn with a rainbow‑filled problem, to Tubbs, a surprisingly seaworthy bathtub. Each character has a distinct personality, making this a joy to read aloud and a great springboard for discussion and creative writing.

The story races along at pace, packed with bizarre locations, strange creatures and ridiculous challenges – including the memorably named Snot Jelly Island. Underneath the silliness, there’s a strong sense of teamwork, resilience and friendship as the group work together to find Wally’s missing wand and make it home.

A fantastic choice for confident Key Stage 2 readers, this is a laugh‑out‑loud adventure that children will be desperate to keep reading.

And finally, for our oldest readers, I’ve chosen The Tale Of Truthwater Lake by Emma Carroll, a thought‑provoking adventure combining mystery, emotion and real‑world relevance in a story that stays with you long after the final page.

Set in a near‑future Britain gripped by relentless heatwaves, the story follows Polly as she navigates a summer that feels both stifling and unsettlingly familiar. With curfews in place and daily life disrupted by extreme weather, the setting quietly reflects growing concerns about climate change without overwhelming young readers.

Sent to stay with her aunt by drying Truthwater Lake, Polly is pushed to face her fear of deep water. As the lake slowly recedes, it reveals the ghostly remains of a long‑lost village – an eerie, atmospheric discovery that instantly draws the reader in. When Polly dives beneath the surface and uncovers a gateway to the past, the story takes on an exciting time‑travel twist, blending suspense with historical curiosity.

Beautifully paced and richly descriptive, this is an immersive read that encourages reflection as much as excitement. Alongside the adventure, the book gently explores responsibility, courage and the impact our choices have on the world around us.

Ideal for upper Key Stage 2, this is a powerful, engaging story that sparks discussion while delivering an unforgettable reading experience.

Happy reading!

Yesterday was Shakespeare Day, so this week’s books all celebrate The Bard, with brilliant reimaginings of his works and inspirations.

For our youngest readers, I have chosen A Midsummer Night’s Drama by Louis Stowell, illustrated by Isobel Lundie, a warm, witty picture book that will strike a chord with children and parents alike.

Bill the Bear is a playwright with big ideas and an even bigger imagination. Living happily with his friends in the woods, Bill’s latest play is a roaring success at The Glade Theatre – but once bedtime arrives, all that excitement refuses to fade. What follows is a gently comic look at the whirlwind of thoughts, worries and ideas that can make settling down to sleep such a challenge.

This story is perfectly pitched for young children, with playful language, expressive illustrations and a reassuring bedtime arc. Parents will instantly recognise the familiar drama of trying to coax an over‑stimulated child into dreamland, while children will delight in Bill’s theatrical world.

A lovely choice for bedtime sharing, this is a comforting, funny read for little storytellers and budding bards.

Next, for Year 3 and 4 readers, I’ve picked Will Shakespeare Mysteries: The Stinky Stolen Toenails by Kaz Penney, illustrated by Sammy Elgie, a brilliantly funny reimagining of the Bard’s childhood that is absolutely fizzing with mischief and sharp wit.

We meet a young Will Shakespeare long before he was a literary icon; here, he’s just a lad in a turnip-load of trouble trying to avoid his chores and navigate the muddy, stinky streets of Tudor England.

The story is incredibly clever in how it introduces people who may have inspired some of the world’s most famous stage characters. Seeing Ronaldo and Judy through the eyes of a frustrated young Will is a total joy, and the mystery of Henry VIII’s stolen toenail clippings provides exactly the kind of gross-out humour that middle-grade readers find irresistible.

The illustrations by debut talent Sammy Elgie are scattered throughout and really bring Will’s chaotic world to life. It’s fast-paced, irreverent, and manages to make history feel wonderfully accessible and ridiculous. A fantastic addition to any classroom bookshelf!

And finally for Year 5 & 6, I’ve chosen The Last Bard by Maz Evans, a thoughtful, funny and ultimately hopeful children’s novel that blends real emotion with a touch of literary magic.

Will Davenant’s life has been shaped more by sadness than joy, so inheriting his grandfather’s battered copy of The Complete Works of Shakespeare is the last thing he expects to change anything. But this is no ordinary book. When Will discovers his extraordinary family connection to William Shakespeare himself, he unlocks the ability to summon some of the Bard’s most famous characters straight from the page – and suddenly, he’s not facing life alone.

Maz Evans brings her trademark humour and warmth to this standalone story, while also handling themes of grief, identity and belonging with real sensitivity. The Shakespearean characters are introduced in an accessible, amusing way that never feels intimidating, making this a brilliant bridge into classic literature for younger readers.

Balanced with laughter, heart and moments of poignancy, The Last Bard is a reassuring read that shows how stories can help us make sense of the world. A fantastic choice for confident readers in upper Key Stage 2 and a real treat for adults sharing alongside.

Happy reading!

In honour of Pet Appreciation Day earlier this week, this week’s theme for my Friday Library Recommendations is Pets.

My first choice is a fabulous non-fiction books, How To Talk To Your Pet by Dr James Greenwood, illustrated by Jack Viant. Bursting with fun facts, humour and heart, this brilliantly accessible guide lifts the lid on the secret world of animal communication, making it perfect for curious young readers and animal‑loving families alike.

Dr Greenwood, known to many from Fur Babies and The Pets Factor, uses real veterinary knowledge to explain the clues our pets give us every day – from helicopter‑whirling dog tails to super‑alert cat ears. Children will love discovering why rabbits behave the way they do (even the slightly yucky bits!), and the book gently encourages empathy by helping readers think about what animals need as well as what they’re trying to say.

The lively illustrations add heaps of charm and make even the trickiest ideas feel simple and engaging. It’s the sort of book children dip into again and again, proudly sharing new facts with anyone who’ll listen – including the family pet.

Warm, funny, and wonderfully informative, this is a must‑read for budding vets, devoted pet owners, or anyone who just wants to understand their furry friends a little better.

My next choice is Pia’s Pet Club by Serena Patel, illustrated by Emma McCann. If you’ve ever lived with someone who really, really wants a pet, then Pia will feel instantly familiar, and utterly endearing.

In this lively and laugh‑out‑loud new series from the award‑winning team behind Anisha, Accidental Detective, we follow Pia, a girl whose love for animals is as enormous as her parents’ determination to say “No pets allowed!”

But Pia is nothing if not resourceful. When her friend Hari’s puppy, Luna, proves to be a whirlwind of naughty antics, Pia spots her chance. If she can help train Luna, surely her parents will see she’s responsible enough for a pet of her own? What follows is a warm, funny, and wonderfully chaotic journey as Pia and her animal‑mad friends create Pet Club, complete with big ideas, big hearts, and a puppy who hasn’t quite learned the meaning of “sit”.

Full of expressive, hilarious illustrations that leap off the page, this book is perfect for newly confident readers who enjoy humour, friendship, and a dash of mischief. Children will race through it with huge grins, cheering Pia on as she tries to prove she really is ready for a fluffy friend of her own.

Huge apologies if this book leads to pet‑related pleas at home!

And finally, I’ve chosen Letters To A Dog by Piers Torday, illustrated by Alice McKinley; a tender, comforting read that beautifully blends hope, humour and the healing power of imagination.

Jamie, our young protagonist, is in hospital, anxiously waiting for a life‑changing operation. As if that isn’t tough enough, he’s also fallen out with his dad, leaving visits strained and silent. Piers handles these big emotions with such sensitivity that readers can’t help but root for Jamie from the very first page.

When Nurse Shirley suggests Jamie writes to the dog he dreams of adopting, it feels like a small moment of kindness, until a reply arrives. From the dog. What follows is a gentle, uplifting exchange that gives Jamie a lifeline just when he needs it most. The letters bring warmth, reassurance, and plenty of soft humour, showing readers how stories, and the right words at the right time, can help us feel a little less alone.

This is a beautifully crafted book for readers who enjoy heartfelt tales about friendship, family, and finding courage during difficult moments. It’s perfect for sharing at home, sparking conversations about feelings, worries and the importance of connection. A quietly powerful story with a huge, comforting heart.

Happy reading!