Author name: Mrs Cleveland

2026 is the National Year Of Reading, and BookTrust have put together a calendar of Monthly Missions to try. To fend off the January blues, this month’s mission is to read a book that makes you laugh, so that is my theme for this week’s recommendations.

For our youngest children, I have chosen Space Pirate Bears by Alastair Chisholm, illustrated by Jez Tuyo

This energetic and imaginative book is a wonderful celebration of storytelling, creativity and the magic that can grow out of an ordinary day at home. Jamie and Abby are bored. Very bored. With Dad attempting to work from his dining table, the children need something to spark their imaginations, and a story seems to be the only possible answer. What follows is a wonderfully inventive tale that transforms a quiet home into the far reaches of outer space.

Dad’s improvised story introduces a looming threat to the universe: something grey, dull and dangerously powerful. With the Star Defenders on the brink of defeat, there is only one hope left. Enter the mightiest heroes in the cosmos, the Space Pirate Bears. As the adventure unfolds, the real fun lies in the way Jamie and Abby shape the story themselves, debating who these mysterious heroes should be and what they are capable of. Their differing ideas fuel the narrative, creating plenty of laugh out loud moments and unexpected twists along the way.

This book is fast-paced, action-packed and filled with playful surprises that will delight young readers. At the same time, it gently highlights the importance of cooperation, creativity and listening to one another. Parents will enjoy the familiar setting and the warm portrayal of family life, while children will be swept up in the excitement of an intergalactic adventure.

An entertaining and exciting reminder that boredom can be the starting point for something extraordinary, especially when imagination takes the lead.

For newly independent readers, I’ve picked the latest release from two time Coventry Inspiration Book Award Winner, Ben Davis – the hilarious Postman Planet, the first book in a brand-new, highly-illustrated series full of cosmic capers that will have you in stitches.

Postman Planet has a secret. A BIG one. He claims to be the greatest postman in the Universe, but the truth is… he’s only nine. And right now, he’s racing to the Planet of Fluffy Unicorns with the most important delivery of his life: an inflatable planet that’s rapidly losing air. With only his irritating new assistant Stamp, a half-robot, half-dog who won’t stop beeping, Postman Planet must save the planet before it goes completely flat.

It is laugh-out-loud funny from start to finish. Ben has captured that frantic, silly energy that kids just adore, and his energy is perfectly matched by Yasmin’s fabulously funny illustrations throughout the book. Beyond the chaos and the giggles, there are some really lovely underlying themes of friendship, sharing, and the importance of teamwork.

I loved how accessible it is, and I know that with its short chapters and pages packed with hilarious illustrations, it’s a dream for reluctant readers or anyone aged 6 and up. I devoured this in one sitting and can’t wait for more from this series!

And finally for our confident readers, I’ve chosen Grimstink by Daniel Peak, a hugely entertaining book that delivers a brilliant blend of science fiction, humour and everyday family life, making it a real treat for readers however old.

The story opens with a delightfully absurd contrast: Alien Grimstink has travelled ninety thousand light years to destroy all life on Earth, while 13-year-old Layla Tenby has ventured half a mile to deliver leaflets advertising affordable fence panels. Fate, however, has other plans, and when the pair unexpectedly swap places, chaos quickly follows.

Grimstink’s grand plans for annihilation are derailed by the very British obstacles of traffic wardens, shopping precincts and the baffling complexities of ordering a Subway sandwich. Meanwhile, Layla finds herself zapped to a distant planet, surrounded by black holes, mining satellites and quantum spaceships, and reluctantly tasked with saving the future of the galaxy. Her determination to get home, rather than become a hero, adds plenty of warmth and humour to the adventure.

Adding another layer of fun is Reece, Layla’s younger brother, whose unlikely friendship with Grimstink raises the stakes even further. Is Reece the key to the galaxy’s survival, or will this peculiar bond spell disaster for everyone involved? From outer space to the middle aisle of Aldi, the story hops joyfully between the cosmic and the familiar.

Packed with laugh-out-loud moments and clever twists, this book explores friendship, responsibility and seeing the world from a different perspective. It is a fast-paced, imaginative read that proves even the biggest adventures can begin in the most ordinary places.

Happy reading!

What a wintery day – the perfect weather for closing the curtains and curling up indoors with a good book!

My first choice this week is King Winter’s Birthday by Jonathan Freedland, illustrated by Emily Sutton. a rich, thoughtful, beautifully illustrated picturebook. Written by bestselling author Jonathan Freedland and illustrated with warmth and elegance by Emily Sutton, it brings a classic fairy-tale tone to a story that feels both gentle and meaningful.

The tale begins with King Winter, who wants his birthday celebration to be truly special. He invites all of his brothers and sisters to join him: Queen Spring, King Summer and Queen Autumn. Together they play magical games, filling the palace with joy and wonder. Outside, however, the natural world begins to change. The wind and the trees whisper a warning, and something strange is happening beyond the palace walls.

Inspired by a story by Ulrich Alexander Boschwitz, written while he was interned on the Isle of Man during the Second World War, this book carries a quiet depth beneath its fairy-tale surface. It offers children a gentle introduction to the idea that the world works best when things are in balance.

Celebrating the rhythms of the seasons and the restorative power of nature, this timeless picture book invites discussion, reflection and shared reading.

My next wintery pick is Anya’s Quest by Jasbinder Bilan, illustrated by Seema Bowri, a powerful and uplifting read that blends myth, music and environmental themes into a richly imagined tale.

When the earth’s lullaby begins to fade, the mighty river goddess Ganga knows the world is in danger. Hearing a long-forgotten melody, she is led to a palace high in the icy Himalaya and to Anya, a young girl with a vital role to play. With Anya and her friend Mahi riding on Ganga’s dragon, Makara, the story unfolds into an epic journey through time and across India.

Along the way, the children search for lost lullabies and elusive spirit animals, meeting friends old and new and learning to face their fears. Inspired by Hindu mythology, the book gently introduces young readers to ideas about caring for the planet, the importance of harmony, and the power of hope and courage.

Lyrical, imaginative and full of colour, this is a story to be shared and discussed. It encourages curiosity about the natural world and different cultures, while offering a hopeful message about protecting our fragile planet. A truly special book to treasure.

And finally, I’ve chosen Fia And The Last Snow Deer by Eilish Fisher, illustrated by Dermot Flynn, a beautifully crafted story which won the Children’s Book of the Year at the Irish Book Awards last year, and has just won The Week Junior’s Book Award.

Set in snowy, prehistoric Ireland, the story follows young Fia and her magical snow deer, Solas. Fia shares a deep and special bond with Solas, but when her village is trapped in what seems like an endless winter, fear and desperation take hold. The villagers believe in an ancient prophecy that speaks of the return of sunlight and life, but only if a great sacrifice is made.

Determined not to let her home fall into despair, Fia, together with her cousin Mish, and Solas, set off on a brave journey to find the Deer Mother. This mythical figure is said to awaken the sun at the winter solstice, and she might hold the key to saving their village. However, the wilderness is full of challenges and shadows, testing their courage and friendship at every turn.

Eilish Fisher’s writing is both powerful and tender, weaving themes of hope, kindness, and the strength found in friendship. The tale’s rich setting and emotional depth are beautifully enhanced by Dermot Flynn’s stunning illustrations, which bring the icy landscapes and magical creatures vividly to life.

Fia and the Last Snow Deer is a heartfelt and inspiring lyrical read, perfect for young readers who enjoy fantasy and adventure, while also reminding us all of the importance of bravery and love in the face of hardship.

Happy reading!

It’s my last #FridayLibraryRecommendations of 2025, so I had to share some of my favourite Christmas books.

For our youngest readers, I’ve chosen The Street Where Santa Lives by Harriet Howe, illustrated by Julia Christians, which celebrates community spirit, empathy and the joy of helping others.

This charming festive story introduces young readers to a thoughtful little girl who is the only one to notice when an elderly man moves in next door. With his snowy white beard, rounded tummy and talent for fixing broken toys in his workshop, she becomes convinced that he must be Santa Claus hiding in plain sight.

When the could-be-Santa neighbour becomes unwell, the little girl takes action. With determination and kindness, she gathers the whole street to help care for him, reminding everyone how important it is to look out for those who may be lonely or needing support, especially older members of the community. Her plan brings neighbours together in a wonderfully warm and hopeful way. The big question, of course, is whether their combined efforts will help him recover in time for Christmas Eve.

Harriet Howe’s writing is gentle, humorous and full of heart, making this an ideal shared read during the festive season. Julia Christians’ cosy illustrations add to the magic, filling the pages with warmth, character and seasonal charm.

My next pick is The Christmas Wish-Tastrophe by Cariad Lloyd, illustrated by Ma Pe, a delightful festive tale. It has recently be released in paperback with the new title, Lydia Marmalade and the Christmas Wish.

Lydia Marmalade, a brave and big-hearted girl who arrives at Lady Partridge’s grand mansion with nothing but her trusty sausage dog, Colin. Recently bereaved and longing for a place to call home, Lydia hopes this winter will bring her a fresh start. Unfortunately, Lady Partridge has other ideas, making it clear that Lydia must be perfectly behaved throughout the season or risk being sent away altogether.

What unfolds is a wonderfully warm and witty adventure, filled with mischief, magic and mayhem. Lydia soon encounters a playful winter sprite whose well-meant help often causes more trouble than expected. Add in a grumpy butler, a perpetually peckish Colin, and the most magical night of the year, and Lydia’s simple wish quickly becomes the spark for a full-blown wish-tastrophe.

Despite the chaos, at the heart of this story lies Lydia’s determination, kindness and hope. Children will enjoy the lively characters and snowy escapades, while adults will appreciate the gentle messages about belonging, resilience and finding light in difficult times.

And finally, for our oldest readers, it wouldn’t be Christmas without a who-dun-it from Fleur Hitcock, and Murder At Christmas is a gripping festive mystery.

It follows Grace, who returns home to Bath after a long and rather miserable school term, eager to spend Christmas with her mum and younger brother, Billy. Her excitement, however, doesn’t last long. A shocking murder at their hotel disrupts the holiday, and matters become even more unsettling when Grace’s mum suddenly disappears.

Left frightened and unsure whom to trust, Grace is determined to uncover the truth. With Billy beside her, she teams up with two new friends, Olive and Doug. Clever, quick-thinking and brave, the trio help Grace piece together the puzzling events of the night her mum vanished. As the children follow clues around the festive city, they begin to realise that nothing – and no one – at the hotel is quite what they seem.

The story is packed with twists, tension and clever detective work, all set against a wintry backdrop that keeps the pages turning. Despite the darker themes, the book remains accessible, focusing on friendship, bravery and the importance of working together when things feel overwhelming.

Happy reading!