National Fish & Chips Day is held of the first Friday of June every year to celebrate the iconic dish. It highlights the history of fish and chips, which were famously used as a life-saving code name during the D-Day landings, and were one of the only foods not rationed during World War II due to their role in boosting public morale. It seems only fitting that they feature as this week’s theme for my Friday Library Recommendations.
My first choice comes from an iconic poet and national treasure, Michael Rosen. Hot Food is one of his best known poems from the Big Book Of Bad Things, and is now a picture book, delightfully illustrated by Neal Layton.
At the heart of the story is a moment many children (and adults!) will recognise: sitting down to eat something that’s just a little too hot. Young Michael knows the sensible thing to do — blow on it first. His brother knows it. His mum knows it. But, wonderfully, his dad doesn’t seem to follow the same rules… and what happens next is both funny and unforgettable.
The beauty of this book lies in its simplicity and rhythm. Rosen’s wonderfully repetitive text invites children to join in, making it perfect for reading aloud together. The humour builds brilliantly, capturing that moment when everyday life turns into something completely ridiculous.
The vibrant, full-colour illustrations add even more energy and expression, perfectly matching the playful tone of the poem.
Ideal for children of all ages, this is a brilliant book for sharing at home, guaranteed to spark laughter — and perhaps a few knowing smiles at the dinner table too!
Next, I’ve picked Kid Potato: Welcome To My World by Neil Coslett, packed with laugh-out-loud humour and quirky characters. Neil serves up a wonderfully silly and entertaining read that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and that’s exactly its charm.
At first glance, Kid Potato seems like any ordinary child, except, of course, he’s a potato! Alongside his equally wacky friends, he dives into a series of short, fast-paced adventures that are packed with absurd fun. From alien invasions to robot toilets and epic bowling battles, each story is designed to be quick, lively and full of surprises.
The book is bursting with illustrations on every page, making it especially appealing for visual readers and those who are still building confidence. The humour is bold and playful, with plenty of moments that will have children giggling (and happily reading on).
What really stands out is how accessible it is. The short chapters, engaging layout and interactive elements, including a draw-your-own activity make it perfect for reluctant readers. Ideal for children in Year 2 and up, this is a joyfully silly, highly engaging book that celebrates friendship, imagination and the fun of reading for pleasure.
And finally, I’ve chosen Eating Chips With Monkey by Mark Lowery, a truely special read that balances gentle humour with heartfelt emotion. Mark introduces us to Daniel, a ten-year-old who finds joy in life’s simple pleasures, especially eating chips, and especially with his beloved soft toy, Monkey, by his side.
At the centre of the story is the family’s annual Chip Shop Championships, a quirky and joyful tradition that celebrates togetherness in the most delicious way. But when a sudden accident changes everything, Daniel retreats into himself, and the warmth of family life begins to fade.
What follows is both moving and uplifting. In an attempt to bring Daniel back to himself, his family embark on a journey around the country, revisiting chip shops and cherished memories along the way. There are moments of real sadness, but also plenty of warmth, humour and unexpected joy, including some wonderfully surreal encounters.
Mark handles difficult themes with sensitivity and care, making this a powerful story about love, resilience and the importance of connection.
Ideal for children in Upper Key Stage 2, this is a thoughtful and beautifully written book that lingers long after the final page.
Happy reading, and remember to blow on your chips!
