I can’t believe this is the last Friday Library Recommendations for this school year, so it must be time to talk about this year’s Summer Reading Challenge – “Read To The Beat”. The collection includes books about musicians, characters discovering music, sound science, cultural traditions, rhythm, storytelling through sound, breaking down barriers to music, creative expression and following your dreams. I’ve picked out a few favourites to share. You can join in at your local library or online: Summer Reading Challenge
My first choice is Music Of The Mountains by Sabrina Shah, illustrated by Manal Mirza; a beautifully told story about family, tradition and finding the courage to believe in yourself. Set in a small village in Pakistan, the story follows young Roohi as she learns to play the rabab, a traditional stringed instrument, under the patient guidance of her beloved grandfather.
What makes this book so special is the warm relationship between Roohi and her grandfather. Through his lessons, he teaches her far more than music; he shares the importance of culture, heritage and understanding where you come from. His words about feeling “the rhythm” and “the beat of your people” stay with Roohi long after the lessons end, reminding readers that traditions connect us to our families and communities.
When her grandfather becomes ill before her school’s Eid concert, Roohi is faced with a daunting challenge. Can she find the confidence to perform on her own? Children will be rooting for her every step of the way as she discovers inner strength and learns that the people we love often leave us with everything we need to succeed.
Richly illustrated and full of heart, this story offers a wonderful window into Pakistani culture and Eid celebrations. The informative endnotes add extra depth, making it a fantastic choice for families who enjoy stories that both inspire and teach. A touching and uplifting read about courage, music and belonging.
My next pick is YOU Vs The Poison Plot by Josh Hicks, and it’s one of those books that grabs readers by the hand and pulls them straight into the action. From the very first page, you aren’t just reading the story – you become part of it.
Set on the eve of a school talent show, the mystery begins when the drama teacher suddenly collapses. With four witnesses, plenty of unanswered questions and suspicion hanging in the air, it’s up to you, the editor of the school newspaper, to investigate. Every choice you make affects the outcome, meaning no two reading experiences are quite the same.
What makes this book so much fun is the sense of ownership it gives its readers. Instead of following a set storyline, children must gather clues, weigh up evidence and decide what to do next. It’s an engaging blend of reading, problem-solving and detective work that will appeal to fans of Cluedle, Murdle Junior and mystery-filled escape room adventures.
Packed with maps, diagrams, illustrations and plenty of twists, YOU VS: The Poison Plot feels more like stepping into a game than reading a traditional novel. There are surprises around every corner, lots of potential endings and plenty of laughs along the way.
Perfect for confident readers and reluctant readers alike, this is an inventive, fast-paced mystery that encourages children to think critically, trust their instincts and, most importantly, keep turning the pages to solve the case. A brilliantly interactive read that leaves you eager for the next adventure.
And finally for our most confident readers, I’ve chosen Hunt For The Golden Scarab by M.G. Leonard; an exciting new adventure that combines history, mystery and time travel into one page-turning story. From the very first chapter, readers are swept into a thrilling race across time as secrets, danger and ancient treasures await around every corner.
Sim has always wondered why he and his mum never stay anywhere for long. When mysterious strangers suddenly appear and turn their lives upside down, he discovers an incredible truth: his mum can open doors through time. Before long, Sim and his friends find themselves on a desperate quest to uncover the lost tomb of Nefertiti and solve the mystery of a precious golden scarab.
What I particularly enjoyed about this book is the way M. G. Leonard effortlessly blends real historical facts with an action-packed adventure. Ancient Egypt feels vivid and alive, and readers will find themselves completely immersed in the puzzles, clues and twists that drive the story forwards. The stakes are high throughout, with the sinister Council of Keys always one step behind.
The characters are easy to root for, and their courage, loyalty and determination shine through even in the most dangerous moments. Meanwhile, the fascinating historical details add an extra layer of interest, making this a wonderful choice for children who enjoy learning while they read.
Packed with suspense, friendship and adventure, Hunt for the Golden Scarab is a fantastic start to a promising new series. Perfect for fans of Adventures on Trains, Twitch or anyone dreaming of stepping through a door into another time.
Happy reading!
