Library

As it is our last Friday Library Recommendations before half term, this week my choices are all spooky books to set the hair on the back of your neck on end…

First, I’ve picked Creaky Castle by Jane Clarke and Christyan Fox,  a spoktacular halloween adventure.  Are you brave enough to enter?

Step into the mysterious world of Creaky Castle, where spine-chilling surprises await around every corner. This Halloween-themed picture book invites young readers to lift the flaps and uncover a host of spooky characters. From skeletons in the cellar and werewolves in the shower to a vampire hiding in the clothes chest, each page is a doorway to Halloween fun. Get ready for a bone-shaking, flap-lifting Halloween adventure that will leave your little ones wanting more.

For confident Year 3 and up readers, I’ve chosen Lockett & Wilde’s Dreadfully Haunting Mysteries: The Ghosts of the Manor by Lucy Strange, illustrated by Pam Smy which is the perfect introduction to gothic mysteries.

Matilda Lockett is used to playing the role of Poor Dead Edna on stage with her spirit-medium aunt, Signora Valentina, and theatrical uncle Barnabus – but when they all decamp to Beauchamp Manor to deal with a most dreadful haunting, she discovers she really can see ghosts! There she meets ghost boy, Edgar Wilde, who shares her love of supernatural snooping, and together they set about unravelling the case of The Ghosts of the Manor.

And finally, for our oldest children, I’ve picked Black Gables by Eibhlis Carcione; a deliciously dark and haunting read that is perfect for anyone who enjoy gothic tales with a supernatural twist. Eibhlis masterfully balances an unsettling atmosphere with an engaging mystery, creating a story that left me chilled to the bone.

Enter Black Gables and meet the world’s most sinister teachers and their pets!

When Rosella starts a new school in the eerie town of Black Gables, where crows croak menacingly and pale faces appear in the water of the lake, she knows that something is terribly wrong. Under the watchful eye of her new headmaster, Mr Edge, whose unsettling presence and appearance hint at something dark lingering beneath the surface of both the town and the school, Rosella must unravel the mystery of Black Gables before it’s too late!

Happy reading – don’t have nightmares!

Today is the start of World Space Week, and so all of my books this week look to the stars. The first two are also told in verse to link with National Poetry Day, which was yesterday.

For our younger children I have chosen The Big Beyond by James Carter and Aaron Cushley, a brilliantly fun rhyming exploration of space travel.

Once upon a rocket, a countdown has begun,

from 10, 9, 8 to 7 and 6

to 5, 4, 3, 2, 1

Get ready for blast-off with this fast-paced poem that’s all about space travel. From the early humans who dreamt of wings to the Moon landing, and from spacecraft exploring Mars to the future beyond… Climb on board for an adventure into outer space!

My next book is a fabulous picture book for older children called We The Curious Ones by Marion Dane Bauer, illustrated by Hari & Deepti, which is a celebration of curiosity, imagination, and the pursuit of knowledge. Birds sing. Bees dance. Wolves howl. But we are the ones who tell stories. Since the beginning, humans have created stories about the universe. From early mythology to modern-day science, we have always been curious to know more, yet 95% of the world “out there” remains a mystery. What will we believe tomorrow?

The lyrical poetry is utterly captivating, drawing us into the history and mystery of the cosmos, and how our understanding of it has changed over time. With each changing narrative about the universe we live in, Marion skilfully weaves together themes of curiosity, wonder, and the human desire to understand the universe’s vastness. It enables us to explore complex scientific concepts in a thought-provoking, yet accessible manner, while evoking a sense of awe and reverence for the natural world and our place within it.

Breath-taking cut-paper illustrations, full of intricate details and vibrant colours, bring the beauty and complexity of the universe to life, from swirling galaxies to microscopic atoms. Hari & Deepti create a visual narrative that echoes and enhances the scientific stories being told on each page.

Finally, for our oldest readers, I’ve chosen The Last Boy by Eve McDonnell, a captivating historical fantasy that brilliantly blends real-life history with elements of magic, making it an exciting and emotional read for young readers and adults alike.

Inspired by the harrowing true story of George Brewster, the last recorded child chimney sweep in England, Eve has crafted a tale that is both touching and thrilling. Her enthralling story expertly weaves the grim realities of child labour in Victorian times with the enchantment of a magical world where the promise of a wish holds immense power.

At the heart of the story is Brewster’s wish to be the last climbing boy ever, a wish born out of desperation and a desire for freedom, not just for himself but for all children forced into this brutal line of work. His life is dictated by the dangerous and suffocating work of climbing inside chimneys to clean them, a task that risks his life daily. His escape comes from his astounding mathematical abilities and secret trips into a library full of the information he needs to complete his calculations. Eve does not shy away from portraying the harsh conditions child laborers faced, and the devastating effects their job had on their health.

A story of resilience, magic, and the enduring human spirit, The Last Boy is a must read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction with a twist of fantasy.

Happy reading!

This week, children in school have had an assembly about Coventry Food Bank, as that is where our harvest donations will be going this year. They have asked for items with long dates, such as tinned tomatoes and vegetables, tinned meats and fish, cooking sauces for the hob, and UHT long life milk. If you could attach a coin to a can too, they are also working with a charity in Bolivia to help feed street children too. We would be extremely grateful for anything you feel you can donate. We  will be accepting donations from Monday 30th September to Friday 4th October.

Our harvest collection has inspired my book choices for this week, which delve a little deeper into the lives of children who don’t have enough food.

The first is a picture book called, It’s A No Money Day by Kate Milner.

Mum works really hard, but today there is no money left and no food in the cupboards. Forced to visit the local food bank, Mum feels ashamed that they have to rely on the kindness of others, but her young daughter can still see all the good in her day like reading and drawing, and even the food bank.
Maybe one day things will be different but for now together they brighten up even the darkest of days.

A moving insight into the sad rise and necessity of food banks from the perspective of society’s most vulnerable, and an essential book to help develop empathy in younger readers.

For Year 3 and up, I’ve picked The Great (Food) Bank Heist by Onjali Q. Rauf

On Thursdays, Nelson, Ashley and Mum head out to the bank. But not just any old bank – the food bank. With its shining tins and packets of food stacked from floor to ceiling, Nelson thinks it’s the best kind of bank there is. But there’s a thief in town, and the shelves of the food bank are getting emptier each day, leaving people hungrier than ever. For the sake of his family and everyone else’s, Nelson needs to make them stop. But can he and his friends really be the ones to catch the bank robber?

Written with great empathy and Onjali’s trademark humour, The Great (Food) Bank Heist is a moving story that gives a child’s-eye view of the increasing problem of food poverty.

And finally, I have chosen a chapter book for Year 5 and up called, The Boy In The Suit by James Fox.

It’s not easy to fit in when you’re the boy in the suit…

Ten-year-old Solo – embarrassingly, that isn’t short for anything – just wants to be normal. He wants a name that doesn’t stand out. He wishes he had a proper school uniform that fitted him. He dreams about a mum who doesn’t get the Big Bad Reds, like his mum Morag. But most of all he longs to stop crashing funerals for the free food. But when Solo and Morag crash the funeral of a celebrity and get caught, the press are there to witness their humiliation. The next day it’s splashed across the papers. Before Solo knows it, he becomes a viral sensation, and life may never be normal again.

The Boy in the Suit is a remarkable debut that tackles important issues such as mental health, poverty, and the quest to fit in with sensitivity and grace. James has crafted a story that is not only a page-turner but also a life-affirming testament to the resilience of the human spirit, and is a timely reminder of the importance of empathy, community, and the strength found in the unlikeliest of places.

Happy reading!

This week, I have chosen a picture book that focuses on gratitude – an important character strength that we all need to foster to improve our wellbeing and help us through trickier moments in life.

Thank You by Jarvis is an enchanting picture book that serves as a gentle reminder to pause and appreciate the seemingly ordinary things that often go unnoticed. From the very first page, Jarvis’s picturebook delivers a heartwarming experience, both visually and emotionally, that is sure to resonate with children and adults alike. Its vibrant collage art and simple, rhythmic text combine to create a captivating read that will leave a lasting impression on young readers.

The book follows a young child who joyously gives thanks to the various elements of his everyday life. This simple yet profound narrative guides readers through a series of delightful illustrations that capture the essence of each item the child appreciates—from the warm embrace of the sun and the thrill of riding a bicycle to the simple pleasure of jelly in a bowl. The central theme of gratitude is woven seamlessly into the fabric of the story, encouraging children to recognise and appreciate the small joys in their own lives.

Jarvis’s artistic approach is nothing short of mesmerizing. The illustrations, crafted through vibrant collage art, create a visual feast that complements the book’s theme perfectly. Each page bursts with colour and texture, drawing children into a whimsical world where the wonder and enthusiasm of the child  is thoughtfully captured. The text is simple yet effective, with rhythmic, repetitive phrasing that reinforces the theme and encourages participation. As the child expresses thanks for each small joy, the repetitive structure invites readers to join in, fostering a sense of inclusivity and sharing.

More than just a picture book, Thank You is a celebration of the art of gratitude. It not only teaches children the importance of saying “thank you” but also encourages them to reflect on the things that bring them happiness, providing a valuable lesson in appreciating the small joys in life.

Happy reading!

It’s my final Friday Library Recommendations of this school year, and once again, it’s been an absolute pleasure to share amazing books from the world of children’s literature with our whole school community. With summer holidays edging ever closer, my final theme is Journeys – real or imagined!

My first choice is a beautiful picture book by Steve McCarthy called The Wilderness, a wild and wondrous story of true bravery and discovering friendship in the most unexpected of places, perfect for adventurers and the more timid alike.

The Vasylenko family are adventurers. They all love the wet and the wild, the thrill of exploring the outside world. All that is … except Oktober. He prefers the warm and safe comfort of the inside world, and for his adventures to take place between the pages of a book. But tomorrow, Oktober has to join his family on a trek into the slimy, grimy and climby wild, where he sees only danger and worry and fears a creature called “The Wilderness”! Failing to keep his wits about him could be dangerous though – it may even get him a bit … lost. But perhaps getting lost is just what Oktober needs to find himself and maybe even make an unexpected friend.

Next, I’ve chosen a funny and fantastical adventure by Michael Rosen, illustrated by Viviane Schwarz – The Incredible Adventures Of Gaston Le Dog.

Gaston le Dog longs to return to the beautiful beach he remembers from years ago. So he sets off on an adventure – but mystery and danger lurk at every turn, and Gaston will need all the help he can get from the friends he meets along the way. But can they all be trusted? And will Gaston’s odyssey bring him everything he hoped for? This playful new tale from national treasure Michael Rosen sprinkles myth, magic and fairy tale to create a brilliant story, illustrated by award-winning artist Viviane Schwarz, perfect for fans of the Grimwood series.

Finally, I’ve picked a fabulous non-fiction title – It’s The Journey, Not The Destination by Carl Honore, illustrated by Kevin & Kristen Howdeshell. Take time to connect with the world as you embark on 40 slow adventures by foot, bike, boat or train, allowing you to take in the history, absorb the landscape and meet extraordinary people along the way.

Whether you roam the ‘Rose City’ of Petra, feel the magic of the Great Stones Way or sail back in time on the River Nile, these journeys, illustrated step-by-step through each location and accompanied by texts from bestselling author ‘Godfather of the Slow Movement’ Carl Honoré provide young readers with a feast for the senses and food for the soul.

Happy reading and have a wonderful summer full of slow adventures.

This year’s Summer Reading Challenge begins tomorrow and the theme us Marvellous Makers. With a fantastic list of suggested titles to choose from, it’s been really tricky just choosing three.

My first choice The Artist by Ed Vere, is a joyful and inspirational celebration of beauty, mistakes and the artist in all of us.

One brave little artist goes on one epic adventure to share her art, and in doing so learns that it doesn’t matter if you colour outside the lines, that art is full of heart… and that maybe you are an artist too!

My next choice is Pablo & Splash by Sheena Dempsey – join time-travelling penguins Pablo and Splash on an unexpected adventure to the time of the dinosaurs in this brilliantly funny full-colour graphic novel. 

Antarctic penguins Pablo and Splash are polar opposites and besties for life. Pablo is a home-bird and a careful planner. Splash is easily bored and hungry for adventure. Sick to her flippers of the harsh, freezing weather, Splash persuades Pablo to go on a holiday with her. But far from the luxury beach destination that Splash has in mind, the pair end up in a time-travel machine that takes them back to the age of the dinosaurs! Suddenly their icy homeland doesn’t seem so dull .

You can join in The Reading Agency’s Summer Reading Challenge over the summer by visiting your local library’s website or app to browse their online catalogue. Your library may offer a Click and Collect service, so you can pick up your books to enjoy at home. Keep an eye out for eBook and audiobook versions, too. And, head over to The Reading Agency website for more information on this year’s challenge along with games and activities.

Next Thursday, the adults in the country will go to the polls to decide which political party will run our country. Understanding politics, elections and voting can be tricky, so this week, I’m sharing books all about elections.

First, I’ve chosen The Election by Eleanor Levenson and Marek Jagucki, which is the perfect introduction to the concepts of democracy, elections and voting through a fun story with engaging illustrations.

Alex’s family backs the party whose posters have stripes on them. Evie’s family backs the party whose posters have spots on them. But which party will win? Either way, the two will remain friends.

When we vote, it’s really important that we question ourselves and what we’d like our world to look like, which is exactly what the next two books help us to do.

In If I Were Prime Minsiter by Trygve Skaug and Ella Okstad, a young boy gives his perspective on several things the grown-ups running the country could do differently.

How much happier would we be if all the adults went to nursery once a month to remind themselves how to play? How much safer would we be if Christmas lights were left up all year round to light everyone’s way home? This hilarious picture book treats profound topics with sensitivity and care and helps all of our children dare to dream big and for all those adults who want to look on the world with fresh eyes.

And finally, congratulations! In my last book for this week, If I Ran The Country by Rich Knight, you’ve just become the leader of your own country! There are a lot of decisions to be made, and not long to make them.

The good news is you’ve got your hands on this funny, fact-packed book, covering everything you need to know to rule effectively – no matter where in the world you are. But it’s not just about political systems, elections, climate change, justice and all those other things we hear politicians talking about. You also need to learn how to lead. With essential life and leadership skills and tips – from teamwork, confidence and compassion to discovering who you are and what you believe in – If I Ran The Country answers all the questions most often posed by first-time top dogs like you. You’ll be ruling like a pro in no time!

Happy reading!

What a fantastic theme from Year 6 for the final Challenge Miss Cleveland of this school year – books about books.

My first choice, for our youngest readers is Wild Book Day by Karl Newson, illustrated by James Brown – an exhilarating adventure, that will spark a lifelong love for books.

Characters from different stories collide to celebrate our rich tapestry of children’s literature. As pages wildly come to life, this riotous read not only entertains but also shows the magic of storytelling and the importance of keeping the joy of reading alive. With every turn of the page, it’s a celebration of the limitless worlds within books, encouraging young minds to become active participants in their everyday reading adventures.

Next, I’ve picked Books And The People Who Make them by Stephanie Vernet and Camille De Cussac. I have lost count of the number of times I have been asked by a child how they become and author or an illustrator, and how a book goes from being an idea in someone’s head to a physical entity ready to entertain. Well, this book has all of the answers and much, much more.

Packed with facts about the publishing journey from conception to print and the journey to a reader’s hands, this is also filled with quirky facts about the wider world of books, including the world’s oldest bookshop, some of the more peculiar libraries our world has on offer, and details relating to the myriad of choices to be made which determine how books look and feel in your hands.

These extra details open young readers minds to the breadth of the literary landscape and the intricate pathways traversed by a whole team of people to make fantasy a reality, and inform and engage readers of all ages. Bright illustrations accompany each fact, drawing the eye from one to the next.

The perfect accompaniment to any bookcase for readers curious as to how the books they have chosen to fill their shelves got there.

My final choice based on this week’s theme is Big Ideas From Literature which introduces children to books through the ages, showing how they can develop both empathy and resilience through exploring the stories they tell.

Books can be so powerful, helping us through tricky times, offering us wisdom we haven’t learnt yet, showing us that there are people like us, or showing us the opposite, that other people live very different lives. Books can be a friend when you need one the most and you can use them to help and inspire others, too. From an early age, we tend to be told that books matter, but very rarely are we properly allowed to examine why – and therefore we can miss out on a genuine engagement with books. Big Ideas from Literature dares to ask the obvious but crucial questions about the whole business of reading: What is reading really for? What are stories trying to do for us? Why should we care?

In a tone that’s engaging and playful, we’re shown how books help us to grow, why we cry about the fate of certain characters and how to read for genuine pleasure rather than to please a teacher or parent.

And finally, this is nothing to do with the theme, but I couldn’t have recommendations for Year 6 without mentioning Moving Up: How To Ace Secondary School by Christian Foley. This is the title for children moving from Primary to Secondary school.

Moving up from primary to secondary school can be scary. Going from being the bosses of the benches, to the youngest in a massive playground is hard. The classrooms are bigger, older students look like adults and don’t even start on the piles of homework, stressful exams and complicated friendships. Whether you’re heading to secondary school next year, or you’ve just started and are still adjusting, Moving Up is here to help you on your journey.

From  your first day all the way up to your final exams and your leaving party or prom, this handy guide book will be the perfect companion for transitioning to secondary, and get you feeling confident, building strong friendships, achieving great things and generally being the greatest that you can be.

Happy reading!