It’s the second week of evictions, and once again, we say goodbye to some fantastic books from this year’s competition. Have a look at my recommendations for what to try next if your favourite left the competition this week.
What’s The Story
The second book evicted is Tiny McToot by Barry Falls. Tiny the giant lives in a shoe, and as the smallest giant in the land, he is always overlooked. But, when a HUGE and dastardly troll comes along, could it be Tiny’s diminutive size (along with his HUGE courage) that saves the day? A joyfully exuberant rhyming story about being seen, heard and accepted – however small you may be!
If you loved Tiny McToot, try Little Wolf by Peter Donnelly, a warm and reassuring picture book that celebrates confidence, kindness and being yourself. As the pack prepares for the Big Howling Ceremony, Little Wolf worries that his howl is not loud or impressive enough. With gentle encouragement and a tender message, the story shows children that bravery does not always mean being the biggest or noisiest. Peter’s soft illustrations and simple, rhythmic text make this an ideal read for younger children. Perfect for sharing at home or in the classroom, Little Wolf reminds us that every child’s voice matters, and that sometimes the quietest voices can be the most special.
Telling Tales
The second book to leave this category is Wild Magic: Legend of the Black Lion by Abiola Bello and Illustrated by Emma McCann.
Misha and Ziggy are no ordinary twins. They have a secret that no one else knows: Misha can speak to animals and Ziggy can shapeshift into them! The siblings couldn’t be happier to be joining their wildlife presenter father on a trip to Ethiopia, and they’re determined to help him bag the best footage of the legendary Black Lion. When the Black Lion goes missing, Misha and Ziggy are certain their powers can track it down. Can they find it before anyone else does and help keep the jungle safe from harm?
If this was your favourite, try Animagicals: Mia’s Tiger by Paula Harrison, an exciting new fantasy adventure, perfect for readers who enjoy magic, animals and friendship. Set at Wild Haven, a secret school hidden deep in a magical forest, the story follows children who can transform into animals while learning to control their powers. Mia is delighted to discover she is an animagical, but keeps accidentally turning into a mouse, which leads to plenty of humour and suspense. With fast-paced storytelling and a brave, relatable heroine, this book will quickly capture young imaginations. Ideal for confident readers, Animagicals is a fun and magical start to a new series that children will be eager to continue.
Hooked On Books
The second book to be voted out is The Line They Drew Through Us by Hiba Noor Khan, a powerful and thoughtful historical novel that introduces young readers to the events of Indian Partition with care and compassion.
Three best friends are born on the same day under miraculous circumstances. But by their twelfth birthday, Jahan, Ravi and Lakshmi’s lives are about to change forever. The British announce Indian independence and draw lines of Partition that tear apart the country, and the friends. One of them flees, one of them disappears, and the other is left wondering, could a miracle bring them back together?
If you loved The Line They Drew Through Us, try The Partition Project by Saadia Faruqi, a moving and accessible novel that helps children explore history through family stories. Mahnoor, an aspiring young journalist, is asked to film a documentary and unexpectedly finds inspiration in her grandmother’s memories of the Partition of India and Pakistan. As the two grow closer, Mahnoor learns how the past continues to shape the present. Written with warmth and sensitivity, the book introduces a complex historical event in a way that is engaging and age appropriate. Ideal for older primary readers, The Partition Project encourages empathy, curiosity and thoughtful conversations about history, identity and the power of storytelling.
If you don’t want your favourite to leave next week, make sure you vote at Coventry Inspiration Book Awards – Coventry City Council
Happy reading, and voting!
