This half-term, all of the themes have come from different staff members. This week, the books all link to Mr Beech’s childhood interests – monsters, myths, and Marvel…
First, The World Of The Unknown: Monsters is from one of my favourite childhood non-fiction series, which had recently been updated and rereleased for a new generation of children curious about the unexplained.
If you are fascinated by mythical creatures and mysterious beasts, World of the Unknown: Monsters is a thrilling read that’s bound to capture your imagination. Originally published in 1977, this classic Usborne title explores the legends of monsters from around the globe — from dragons and sea serpents to the ever-enigmatic Loch Ness monster.
Presented in an engaging and accessible way for young readers, the book is packed with intriguing tales and spine-tingling illustrations. It’s part of the much-loved World of the Unknown series, which has become something of a nostalgic favourite for adults too. This new edition includes a foreword by comedian and author Robin Ince, adding a modern touch while keeping the original intrigue intact.
Perfect for curious minds who enjoy a good mystery, this book is sure to spark plenty of questions and imaginative conversations!
Next, I have chosen Storyland by Amy Jeffs, the children’s edition, which is a spellbinding adventure into the lost mythology of how Britain began.
If you’re looking for a book that brings history, myth and magic to life, this beautifully illustrated retelling of Britain’s ancient myths and legends is a treasure trove of giants, dragons, heroes, and mysterious landscapes, all waiting to be explored.
Many children will already be familiar with figures like Thor or Medusa, but Storyland introduces a whole new world of wonder, rooted in the myths of the British Isles. From Trojan warriors landing on our shores, to dragons slumbering beneath hills, and kings whispering to spirits of the dead, the book offers a thrilling journey through stories that have shaped our land for centuries.
Travelling from the misty Orkney Isles to the cliffs of Cornwall, readers will meet young Merlin helping to build Stonehenge, Syrian sisters seeking safety, and heroes sailing Britain’s rivers in search of destiny. Each tale is brought vividly to life with rich, atmospheric illustrations and storytelling that feels both ancient and fresh.
This children’s edition of Jeffs’ bestselling book has been carefully adapted to suit young readers, making it an excellent choice for curious minds aged 8 and up. The language is accessible while still capturing the poetic feel of myth, and the stories spark the imagination as well as a sense of connection to Britain’s landscape and history.
Storyland is perfect whether shared aloud or enjoyed independently, and offers a wonderful way to introduce readers of any age to folklore, geography and the magic of storytelling. A truly spellbinding read, it will leave you dreaming of giants and legends long after the last page is turned.
And finally, An Atlas Of Marvel – the complete guide to the Marvel Universe!
This vibrant, fully illustrated book takes readers on a journey through the entire Marvel universe, starting in the heart of New York City and expanding outwards to cover Earth, the galaxy, and even distant parts of the cosmos.
With detailed maps and illustrations straight from the comics, children can explore famous locations such as the Avengers Mansion and the Xavier Institute. These aren’t just dots on a map; they’re brought to life with in-situ artwork and exciting zoom-ins that showcase key comic scenes. It’s like opening a window into the world of superheroes.
The book also shines a spotlight on some of Marvel’s most beloved characters. There’s a fun look at all of Spider-Man’s different suits, an overview of the many X-Men, a timeline of Black Widow’s history, and the various forms the Hulk has taken over the years. It’s both informative and visually engaging, making it ideal for curious readers.
Whether you are just beginning your Marvel adventure or already know every superhero’s backstory, this book offers a fresh and exciting way to dive deeper. Full of colour, action, and fascinating details, An Atlas of Marvel is sure to spark imaginations and might even inspire a bit of map-making at home!
A must-have for any Marvel enthusiast’s bookshelf.
Happy reading!
