Author name: Mrs Cleveland

Next Tuesday is Armistice Day, so this week, I have chosen books that highlight the bravery and resilience shown throughout the Second World War.

My first choice is War Dog by Tom Palmer, Illustrated by Carolina Rabei; a moving and beautifully illustrated picture book that tells the extraordinary true story of Judy, a brave and loyal dog who lived through the Second World War.

Judy is the mascot of a ship called HMS Grasshopper and quickly becomes an important member of the crew. She spends her days catching rats, looking out for anyone who might fall overboard, and listening carefully for signs of danger. Most of all, she offers comfort and companionship to the sailors during a frightening and uncertain time.

Judy’s bond with the crew, especially a kind man named Frank, shows the deep connection between people and animals. When disaster strikes and the soldiers are taken prisoner, Judy is separated from Frank. She must find the courage to survive and reunite with the people she loves. Her loyalty and bravery give the men hope and strength when they need it most.

This remarkable story is based on real events. Judy was the only dog to be made a prisoner of war and was awarded the Dickin Medal, which is an honour given to animals for their bravery during wartime. Tom Palmer tells her story with warmth and clarity, making it accessible for young readers while also sparking thoughtful conversations about history, kindness and courage.

Carolina Rabei’s illustrations bring Judy’s journey to life with emotion and vivid detail, making the book both educational and deeply touching. A special non-fiction section at the back of the book shares fascinating facts about animals in wartime, which adds an extra layer of learning.

War Dog is an inspiring and heartfelt read for families. It is perfect for children who love animals or history and is a wonderful way to introduce them to real stories of heroism.

My next choice, for our older chilrden is Shrapnel Boys by Jenny Pearson; a gripping and heartfelt story set during the Second World War. It follows Ronnie Smith, a young boy growing up in London in 1939. When war begins, Ronnie feels a mixture of fear and excitement. At night he lies awake listening to the bombs falling, but in the morning he races out with his friends to collect pieces of shrapnel from the streets. To them, it is a thrilling game, but the danger around them is very real.

Ronnie’s world is not just shaped by the war outside. Trouble is also brewing at home. His brother is keeping secrets and getting involved with mysterious new friends and a risky job. Ronnie begins to worry that his brother may be in more danger than he realises. When Ronnie tries to help, he uncovers secrets far bigger than he expected, secrets that could affect more than just his family.

Jenny Pearson captures the bravery, fears and friendships of children living through wartime with warmth and honesty. She shows how ordinary children had to grow up quickly, facing challenges and responsibilities that would be unimaginable today. Ronnie is a relatable and courageous character, and readers will cheer him on as he tries to protect the people he loves.

This book offers children an exciting and fast-paced story while also giving them a glimpse into real history. It is perfect for sparking conversations about family, courage and what it was like to be a child during the war. Shrapnel Boys is both thrilling and moving, making it a fantastic choice for young readers who enjoy adventure and stories about friendship and resilience.

And finally, I’ve picked a non-fiction book that is perfect for sharing with a grown-up. Blitz Kids: True Stories From Children Of War Time Britain by Duncan Barrett and Nuala Calvi. a powerful and moving book that shares the real experiences of children who lived through the Blitz during the Second World War. It paints a vivid picture of what life was like for young people in cities across the UK as bombs fell from the skies and the world around them changed overnight.

Through the voices of children like Kitty from London, Christopher from Liverpool and Doreen from Coventry, the book brings history to life in a way that feels real and immediate. These children spent nights in cold and crowded air raid shelters, listening to the terrifying sounds of planes and bombs. In the morning, some discovered their homes and schools had been destroyed. Many lost pets, possessions and even family members.

Yet these children also showed incredible resilience. They made their own fun, collecting shrapnel, exploring bombed-out houses and chasing American soldiers for chocolate and chewing gum. Their stories are a reminder of how strong and brave young people can be, even in the darkest times.

This book is best shared with an adult, as some of the stories can be emotional and may raise important questions about war, loss and courage. Reading together can help children talk through what they are learning and understand the historical context more clearly.

Blitz Kids is a wonderful resource for families who want to explore real history in a meaningful and personal way. It helps children connect to the past, understand how it felt to live through wartime Britain, and appreciate the resilience of a remarkable generation. It is both a moving tribute and a powerful conversation starter for young readers and their families.

Happy reading!

With Halloween over half-term, I thought it would be the perfect time to share some spooky books that are best read when you wake up, rather than before going to sleep…

This Book Is Not A Bedtime Story by Eoin McLaughlin, illustrated by Robert Starling is a delightful twist on the traditional nighttime read. While the title boldly claims the opposite, this book is in fact perfect for snuggling up with before lights out.

The story is told from the point of view of a group of monsters who are convinced they are absolutely terrifying. They are determined to make the reader feel scared, setting scenes in spooky woods, creaky haunted houses, ghost ships and pitch-black caves. They use big voices, scary faces and all the tricks they can think of. However, it becomes clear very quickly that they are not scary at all. In fact, they are rather sweet.

I love the mix of gentle humour and clever subversion of expectations. The monsters, far from being fearsome, are adorably insecure. Their attempts to frighten are more funny than frightening, and children will enjoy being in on the joke. Adults will appreciate how the story gently explores feelings of self-doubt and the desire to fit in, all within a charming and accessible narrative.

The illustrations are bright and playful, perfectly matching the monsters’ silly personalities. Rob Starling does a brilliant job of bringing each character to life, making them more endearing than eerie.

By the end, the monsters are ready to give up scaring and simply settle down for a good night’s sleep. Funny, reassuring and heartwarming, this read that is ideal for bedtime, despite what the title says.

Next, I have chosen a book that will make you loud and scream in equal measure; Mallory Vayle and Maggoty Skull in The Beast From Beneath by Martin Howard, illustrated by Pete Williamson.

This fast-paced, laugh-out-loud adventure sees Mallory, a young necromancer-in-training, growing into her magical powers with the help (and occasional hindrance) of her chatty, wise-cracking skull companion, Maggoty. When a magical mishap at the hands of her overambitious Aunt Lilith unleashes a terrifying Nightmare creature, Mallory must venture into the depths of the creepy Carrion Castle to set things right. Along the way, she encounters ghosts, monsters, and even Death himself!

Packed with witty conversations, clever twists, and wonderfully gothic illustrations by Pete Williamson, this book strikes a brilliant balance between funny and frightful. While perfect for Halloween, its engaging characters and imaginative storyline make it a fun read at any time of year.

Ideal for confident readers in Key Stage 2 and above who enjoy humour, magic, and a touch of the macabre, with just enough scares to keep things exciting, but never too much for a primary school audience.

And finally, grab your cushion of comfort for my final choice; a compelling, claustrophobic read from Christopher Edge that will change a favourite childhood game forever. Fear Files: Hide And Seek is the first in a brand new horror-themed series packed with spine-tingling stories with a mysterious twist.

Presented as part of a secretive database called “The Darkive”, the story is framed as a first-hand account of a terrifying, unexplained encounter – one of many creepy tales said to be backed up by real evidence. This clever concept adds an extra layer of suspense for curious young readers who enjoy a good mystery.

In this instalment, Adam and his best friend Sol are on a camping trip that takes a chilling turn when they stumble across an eerie, abandoned ghost town. When a strange game of hide and seek begins, they quickly realise something, or someone, is trying to find them… and it’s not part of the plan.

I have to be honest, as someone who isn’t a fan of horror (even books written for children terrify me) this had me gripped from beginning to end. I loved the addition of clues, encyclopedia entries, newspaper cuttings, photos and floor plans that made me feel part of the team, investigating the eerie events.

Full of tension, atmospheric writing, and just the right level of fear for our oldest primary school readers, Hide and Seek is perfect for children who enjoy a thrillingly original good scare.

Happy reading, and don’t have nightmares!

Tomorrow is World Food day, so what better way to celebrate than to sit down with a brilliant book, your favourite snacks and dig into food for the brain too!

My first choice is My Rice Is Best by Selina Brown, illustrated by Maxwell A. Oginni, a mesme-ricing celebration of food, culture and friendship!

The story follows Shane, a young boy who is absolutely certain that his favourite dish, rice and peas, is the best rice in the world. But when he brings it to school for lunch, his friend Yinka passionately argues that nothing can top her jollof rice. What begins as a friendly disagreement quickly turns into a light-hearted showdown, as the children try to determine whose rice reigns supreme.

Through playful banter and relatable lunchtime moments, this book introduces children to the rich diversity of foods enjoyed in different cultures. The illustrations are full of energy and warmth, capturing the characters’ expressions and emotions perfectly. It’s easy for young readers to see themselves in Shane and Yinka, whether they’ve had similar food debates or just love sharing their favourite meals.

I love how this book gently encourages curiosity about other cultures while celebrating children’s pride in their own backgrounds. The story opens the door to discussions about heritage, family traditions, and trying new foods, all in a way that’s accessible and fun for younger readers.

A celebration of the dishes that bring us together, and the friendly rivalries that make lunchtime a little more exciting, this book is perfect for promoting inclusion, empathy, and a love of storytelling through everyday experiences.

Next, I’ve chosen a unique book offers something a little different: part storybook, part recipe collection, Lunch At 10 Pomegranate Street by Felicita Sala, is a beautifully illustrated picture book that celebrates the joy of cooking, sharing, and community.

Set in a charming apartment building, the story follows the residents of 10 Pomegranate Street as they prepare dishes from around the world in anticipation of a shared lunch. Each apartment reveals a new character and cuisine — from Mr Singh and his daughter stirring up a fragrant coconut dahl, to Maria expertly mashing avocados for her homemade guacamole. As lunchtime approaches, everyone brings their dish to the communal table, highlighting the beauty of diversity and togetherness through food.

I love that each resident’s story is accompanied by a simple, child-friendly recipe that young readers can try at home with an adult. The instructions are easy to follow, with wholesome ingredients and minimal fuss, making it a lovely way to introduce children to cooking and different cultural traditions.

Felicita Sala’s illustrations are rich and inviting, filled with warm colours and delightful details that draw children into each home. The book radiates a cosy, inclusive atmosphere that makes it perfect for autumn reading or any time you want to spark a conversation about food, culture, and kindness.

Lunch at 10 Pomegranate Street is a visual and sensory treat that invites families to cook, read, and connect.

And finally, I’ve picked Pizza Pete And The Perilous Potion by Carrie Sellon, illustrated by Sarah Horne, funny, heart-warming adventures with a sprinkle of magic.

Pete lives happily above his dad’s pizza shop and has no intention of leaving home again. Something happened 25 days ago, that made him promise himself he would never go outside. But, when a fancy new restaurant opens nearby and starts attracting all their customers, Pete faces a difficult decision. With the family business at risk and the chance they might lose their home, he must decide whether to stay inside or step up to help.

Luckily, Pete’s friend Anna is full of ideas. Together, they come up with a clever plan. While exploring the attic, they discover a mysterious old briefcase that leads to the invention of magical pizzas. Soon, word spreads and a queue of excited customers begins to form down the road. But with only four days to save the shop, will their plan be enough?

This is a warm and funny story that blends real-life emotions with a touch of fantasy. It explores themes such as anxiety, bravery and friendship in a gentle and encouraging way. Pete is a relatable character for children who may feel nervous about change, and his story shows how small steps can lead to big achievements.

With a fast-moving plot, loveable characters and lots of imagination, Pizza Pete is a laugh out loud funny read that celebrates teamwork and creativity. A brilliant choice for independent readers or a fun book to enjoy together, especially for children who love stories with heart, and pizza. And with the third book in the series publishing just last week, there is plenty more to enjoy.

Happy reading!

Today is World Mental Health Day, so I have picked stories that we can all identify and empathise with.

My first choice is ish! by Peter H Brown, a beautifully simple and uplifting story that speaks straight to the hearts of young artists and their families.

The book follows Ramon, a boy who absolutely loves to draw. He draws anything, anytime, anywhere, until one day, a careless comment from his older brother shakes his confidence. Suddenly, his once joyful hobby becomes a stressful task. Ramon’s drawings no longer feel “good enough”, and he begins to doubt his abilities.

But all is not lost. His younger sister Marisol gently shows him a different way of seeing things. She doesn’t focus on whether something looks exactly “right”. Instead, she appreciates the way his pictures feel. A vase doesn’t need to be perfect; it can be “vase-ish”. Through her eyes, Ramon learns that creative expression isn’t about perfection, it’s about capturing the essence of something and enjoying the process.

This heart-warming tale is a powerful reminder for children, and adults, that creativity is not about being exact, it’s about being you. With its minimal text and expressive illustrations, ish! encourages young readers to value their own unique way of creating and to keep going, even when self-doubt creeps in.

Offering a gentle but important message about resilience, self-expression, and the freedom to be “ish-ful”, it’s a great conversation starter for talking to children about confidence and creativity, and highly recommended for nurturing self-belief in budding artists and encouraging a lifelong love of making and imagining.

Next, I have picked The Wonderous Prune by Ellie Clements, a heartfelt and empowering story that blends everyday struggles with a touch of magical realism, perfect for readers who enjoy stories about family, friendship and finding your inner strength.

The story follows eleven-year-old Prune Robinson, who has just moved to a new town with her mum and older brother. Prune is quiet, thoughtful, and loves to draw, but things aren’t easy. She’s trying to adjust to a new school, where she’s being bullied, and her brother is constantly getting into trouble. Feeling like she needs to protect her already overworked single mum, Prune decides to keep her problems to herself.

Then something extraordinary happens: her drawings start coming to life. At first, Prune isn’t sure what to do with this strange and wondrous new ability. Should she keep it secret? Can she even control it? But when her brother finds himself in serious danger, Prune realises that her gift might be the key to saving him, and to holding her family together.

Ellie writes with warmth and insight, capturing the emotions of a young girl who feels invisible and overwhelmed. Prune’s magical ability is a clever metaphor for the hidden strengths children often carry, strengths that shine when they’re needed most. The story sensitively explores themes such as resilience, sibling relationships, bullying, the pressures of growing up, and the importance of speaking out when you need help.

With a relatable main character, a dash of magic, and a message about believing in yourself, The Wondrous Prune is both an entertaining and inspiring read.

Finally, for our oldest children, I’ve chosen All The Things That Could go Wrong by Stewart Foster, a powerful and moving story about friendship, empathy, and understanding others, even when they seem like the last person you’d ever get along with.

The story is told from the alternating perspectives of Dan and Alex, two boys with very different struggles. Dan is angry and lost after his older brother suddenly leaves home. Unable to process his emotions, he lashes out and begins bullying Alex. Alex, on the other hand, is dealing with severe OCD, which makes even getting to school a daily challenge, especially when he knows Dan and his mates will be waiting.

When their mums force them to spend the summer holidays together to finish building a raft Dan had started with his brother, both boys are horrified. But as the days go on, a reluctant truce begins to form. Through shared tasks, arguments, laughter, and the slow build of trust, both Dan and Alex begin to see that there are two sides to every story, and that friendship can sometimes grow in the most unexpected places.

Stewart handles difficult topics with great sensitivity and realism. The book explores mental health, grief, bullying, and family breakdowns in a way that is age-appropriate, honest, and deeply relatable. Both characters are well-rounded and believable, and readers will likely find themselves rooting for both of them by the end.

It opens up important conversations about kindness, mental health, and seeing beyond first impressions, making it a valuable read for both children and adults.

Happy reading!