Friday Library Recommendations: CIBA Week 5

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It’s the final eviction for this year’s book awards, before we are left with our top three books, and once again we say goodbye to some fantastic reads.

What’s The Story – Little Wolf by Peter Donnelly

While all the wolves in the valley are busy preparing for the for the big Howling Ceremony, Little Wolf is afraid to use his voice. Little Wolf thinks he’ll never find his howl – but then some wise words from Big Wolf remind him that even the smallest voice can make the sweetest sound. 

If this was your favourite, try A Little Bit Brave by Nicola Kinnear

A heartwarming and delightful picture book that’s perfect for children who may be a little hesitant about trying new things. Logan, a lovable but cautious bunny, is about to embark on his very first adventure – but he’s terrified! Despite his fear, he soon discovers that the world outside holds wonderful surprises, especially if you have a little courage (and a tin of homemade biscuits to save the day!).

This charming story follows Logan as he faces his fears and learns that even the scariest moments can lead to amazing experiences. His bravery is tested when he encounters a wolf, but with the help of his trusty biscuits, Logan proves that heroes come in all shapes and sizes.

Written with warmth and humour, A Little Bit Brave is ideal for any child who struggles with anxiety or uncertainty about stepping outside their comfort zone. The story is beautifully illustrated with bold, contemporary colours that bring the characters to life, and Logan’s hilarious antics will leave children giggling.

Nicola Kinnear’s debut picture book is a true standout, filled with emotional depth, laughter, and plenty of heart. It’s easy to see why this will become a beloved classic for years to come. Perfect for bedtime, storytime, or any time your little one needs a reminder of just how brave they can be!

Telling Tales – Yomi And The Fury Of Ninki Nanka by Davina Tijani

Yomi and her younger brother Kayode are supposed to be on the trip of a lifetime visiting The Gambia with their Uncle Olu. Instead, their uncle’s work has made this the most boring holiday ever! But when Yomi witnesses the Dragon King, Ninki Nanka, being kidnapped from the sky, things get a lot more exciting. Determined to save him, Yomi and Kayode uncover secrets and meet many magnificent beasts – but will it be enough to save Ninki Nanka? 

If this was your favourite, try Dragon Mountain by Katie & Kevin Tsang

An exhilarating adventure that will captivate young readers with its perfect blend of humour, excitement, and ancient myth. When 12-year-old Billy Chan is sent to a remote summer camp in China, he has no idea that his summer will be anything but ordinary. Expecting nothing more than some peace and quiet, Billy soon finds himself thrust into an epic adventure alongside new friends Dylan, Charlotte, and Ling-Fei.

Together, they uncover a long-forgotten secret: four powerful warrior dragons, hidden deep within the mountain behind their camp. These dragons, trapped for centuries after a fierce battle with the dreaded Dragon of Death, need the children’s help to escape before evil is unleashed upon the world. As Billy and his friends venture into the heart of the Dragon Realm, they must face a series of perilous challenges to save both the dragon and human worlds from destruction.

Dragon Mountain is a thrilling and heartwarming tale that combines ancient legends with modern-day humour. The characters are charming, especially Billy, who’s both relatable and courageous, and the friendships that develop throughout the story are filled with heart. The book is brimming with witty, huge-hearted jokes that make it an absolute joy to read. It’s a perfect pick for any child who has ever dreamed of bonding with a dragon or embarking on an unforgettable quest.

With its compelling storyline, engaging characters, and a beautifully immersive world, Dragon Mountain is a must-read for young adventurers. An ideal book for children who love action, magic, and a touch of humour, this exciting novel will spark the imagination of readers of any age.

Hooked On Books – Barb The Brave: The Shadow Army by Dan Abdo and Jason Patterson

This high-octane and uproariously funny graphic novel follows Barb the Brave as she battles Witch Head!  Barb is a Berzerker, one of an elite crew of warriors who protect the land of Bailiwick from the scourge of monsters.  Barb has been captured by the evil Witch Head and, too injured to fight back, her chances for freedom are slim. They’re both in for a surprise when her Berzerker mum, Raven comes to the rescue. The mother-daughter duo escapes but can’t stop Witch Head from summoning a powerful army from the Shadow Realm to take over Bailiwick. Can she figure out how to harness the mystical power of the Ghost Blade? And can Porkchop make sure everybody has enough snacks? Barb’s adventure continues in this action-packed, side-splitting story!

If Barb was your favourite, try The Glorious Race Of Magical Beasts by Alex Bell, illustrated by Tim McDonagh

An absolute joy from start to finish, and an ode to libraries, books, and characters that make their home in your heart. Alex Bell takes us on a fantastical journey through a world where courage, friendship, and the magic of unlikely partnerships hold the key to victory.

The world building is sublime, from the multi-levelled Harmonia to the islands dotted throughout the perilous seas – some more enjoyable to visit than others. I would love to eat at Nana’s Kitchen and browse Eli’s little library. I’d also love a week with his keys in the summer holidays, and some bookish friends to come exploring with me…

Eli and Humphrey aren’t just seen as underdogs in this deadly race, but as a joke entry unlikely to find their way off the starting line. Eli’s quiet, logical determination and the way he is unwaveringly and unapologetically himself throughout is utterly heart-warming. His ability to look for the best in others and recognise their worth in everything they do while he questions his actions, motives and worth at his own expense just makes him all the more endearing.

A brilliant read for pleasure that would make for late bedtimes and torches under the cover in the bid for just one more chapter.

Happy reading, and don’t forget to vote for your favourite to win: Coventry Inspiration Book Awards – Coventry City Council

Friday Library Recommendations: CIBA Week 4

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We’re already at the halfway point for this year’s Coventry Inspiration Book Awards, and it’s time to say goodbye to another three amazing books. If your favourite has been voted out, have a look at Miss Cleveland’s recommendation for what to try next.

What’s The Story – We Are The Wibbly! A Tadpole’s Tale by Sarah Tagholm

Doesn’t life move fast? One moment you’re in the Wibbly, relaxing with your Wibbly friends. The next, they’ve all grown tails and turned into tadpoles! And what’s more, they are bursting OUT of the Wibbly . . . AND you’ve got to keep up! Some tadpoles don’t feel ready to become frogs. And some never wanted to become tadpoles in the first place. 

If this was your favourite, try This Rock Is Mine by Kaye Umansky, illustrated by Alice McKinley

In this charming and laugh-out-loud tale, two frogs find themselves in a rather silly squabble over a humble little rock. Each frog believes it’s their rock, and neither is willing to share! What follows is a hilarious back-and-forth as the frogs argue and bicker. But when a hungry heron swoops down, the frogs realize they might need to work together—because it’s time to find a new rock!

Kaye Umansky’s clever rhyming story takes readers on a delightful journey from frustration to friendship, with plenty of giggles along the way. Alice McKinley’s illustrations add even more fun, capturing the frogs’ antics and the drama of their squabble with warmth and wit.

This book is not only a joy to read aloud (with its spot-on rhyme and rhythm), but also offers a wonderful lesson in conflict resolution that parents and children alike will find both relatable and entertaining.

Telling Tales – Big Bad Wolf Investigates Fairy Tales by Catherine Cawthorne

Did a princess really feel a tiny pea through a mountain of mattresses? And could a pumpkin actually turn into a carriage to carry Cinderella to the ball? Of course not! It’s all a load of fairytale NONSENSE! Or is it . . .? The Big Bad Wolf is on a mission to find the truth behind these tales and clear his name in the process. Combining STEM topics with classic fairy tales this hilarious non-fiction picture book is perfect for those who want answers to the big questions these stories raise!

If this was your favourite The Fairy Tale Fan Club: Legendary Letters Collected by C.C. Cecily by Richard Ayoade, illustrated by David Roberts

In C.C. Cecily’s colllated letters, young readers get an inside look at the real lives of their favorite fairy-tale characters. This delightful collection of letters between curious children and legendary fairy-tale figures answers all the burning questions: What happened after “Happily Ever After”? Is the Big Bad Wolf really as bad as they say? How does Sleeping Beauty really feel about her long nap? And why are frogs so kissable?

This witty and wonderful book brings a fresh twist to classic fairy tales, filled with humor and insight. The letters, written with a touch of playful charm, offer a peek behind the curtain of fairy-tale life, all thanks to C.C. Cecily, the Senior Secretary of the Fairy Tale Fan Club.

The illustrations by David Roberts are equally enchanting, complementing Richard Ayoade’s witty narrative perfectly. This book is a must-read for any young reader who enjoys a good laugh and a fresh take on old tales, and with its quirky, fun-filled approach to classic stories, it is the perfect choice for children eager to discover more about their beloved fairy-tale characters!

Hooked On Books – The Vanquishers by Kaylnn Bayron

Malika “Boog” Wilson and her best friends have grown up idolising The Vanquishers, a group of heroic vampire hunters who wiped out the last horde of the undead decades ago. Nowadays, most people don’t take even the most basic vampire precautions – the days of garlic wreaths and early curfews are long gone – but Boog’s parents still follow the old rules, much to her embarrassment.  When a friend goes missing, Boog isn’t sure what to think. Could it be the school counsellor, Mr Rupert, who definitely seems to be hiding something? Or could it be something more dangerous? Boog is determined to save her friend, but is she ready to admit vampires might not be vanquished after all?

If this was your favourite, try Midnight Treasure by Piers Torday.

In Midnight Treasure, award-winning author Piers Torday invites readers into a breathtaking fantasy world of vampirs, werwolves, and a hunt for a treasure more valuable than gold. Tibor, a werwolf adopted by a powerful vampir, and his courageous friend Roza embark on a quest that will push them to the limits of their immortality. Along the way, they face fierce battles, treacherous betrayals, and race against time—all while navigating a world where danger lurks around every corner.

With breathtaking writing, heart-pounding suspense, characters that leap off the page and into your heart, and a world full of magic and mystery to rival Middle Earth, Piers delivers a thrilling tale that will captivate readers of all ages.

Filled with spells, clues, imprisonments, escapes, and unforgettable moments of courage and hope, Midnight Treasure is the perfect read for fans of Katherine Rundell’s Impossible Creatures and S.F. Said’s Tyger. Whether you are a fan of daring quests, mythical creatures, or stories that tug at the heart, this book is sure to become a fast favorite.

Happy reading and keep voting for your favourite book!

Friday Library Recommendations: CIBA Week 3

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Another week of evictions sees three more fabulous books leave this year’s competition.

What’s The Story – The Hoys by Kes Gray, illustrated by Mark A Chambers

Pirate Jake feels that he cannot be a ‘real pirate’ until he has come face to face with a Hoy. Ahoy there! But what is a hoy, and why can Pirate Jake never see one?! No matter how hard he looks, Jake cannot see the mysterious hoys he keeps hearing so much about. How can he ever be a proper pirate if he can’t see a hoy? With his parrot on his shoulder, he walks gloomily across the sand dunes. Until something quite unusual catches his eye.

If that was your favourite, try Billy And The Pirates by Nadia Shireen

Prepare to set sail on a grand adventure with Billy and her loyal companion, Fatcat, in their latest escapade! In this third thrilling instalment, our brave duo stumbles upon a mysterious message in a bottle while navigating the high seas. But their journey takes a perilous turn when they encounter the notorious Captain Howl and his odorous crew of pirates.

Fear not, for Billy and Fatcat are well-versed in the art of adventure and always have a clever trick (or treat) up their sleeves. Along the way, they’ll meet enchanting singing mermaids and even some sticky toffee-loving sharks!

Join Nadia Shireen as she brings us another delightful tale of courage and camaraderie with our favourite heroine and her ever-hungry feline friend.

Telling Tales – Reggie Rabbit: The Great Carrot Heist by Swapna Haddow and Becka Moor

Reggie Rabbit wants to be a big-shot detective in Bearburgh City, just like his hero, Detective Fox. His parents have other ideas: they would rather he stayed at home and worked on their vegetable stall. But when a carrot-snatching crime wave hits the canals, the family stall is in danger of closing. Even worse, the famous Detective Fox won’t take the case. Reggie needs to step in!

If you loved Reggie, try Indiana Bones by Harry Heape and Rebecca Bagley

Embark on an extraordinary adventure with Indiana Bones, the superpowered shaggy dog, and his clever young friend, Aisha! This dynamic duo is here to solve mysteries that would leave even the world’s top detectives scratching their heads.

In their very first case, Indiana Bones and Aisha are hot on the trail of a treasure hidden centuries ago by the legendary knight, The Lonely Avenger. Their thrilling quest takes them all the way to the majestic pyramids of Egypt.

This inventive new series, brought to life by one of the funniest author/illustrator teams in the business, promises to be a delightful and entertaining read for all.

Hooked On Booked – The Clockwork Conspiracy by Sam Sedgeman

Aspiring inventor Isaac Turner lives with his dad, the Chief Horologist in charge of Big Ben. But when his father vanishes from the belfry on the night the clocks go back, leaving behind only a smashed pocket watch and a cryptic message, Isaac determines to find him. Hunting a trail of clues through London’s landmarks, Isaac uncovers a sinister plot in the gears of government and embarks on a race against time to save his father – and time itself.

If that was your favourite, try S.T.E.A.L.T.H. Access Denied by Jason Rohan

Transformers meet Bond in this adrenaline fuelled action packed adventure.

When his dad disappears, Arun Lal is amazed to discover that he was secretly working on a classified project and has been kidnapped by people intent on stealing it. Along with his geeky best friend Sam and tough-talking Donna, Arun is plunged into a race to rescue his father and find his creation before the thieves can turn it into a destructive global weapon…

The children leave the security services trailing in their wake as they pool their skills and knowledge to get to the truth behind what has happened to Arun’s Dad. Whether police, security services, military, or the people behind the kidnapping they use street smarts and technical savvy to keep up as the clock ticks down.

Arun, Sam and Donna are not a natural team at first glance. The boys see Donna as trouble, while she sees them as a way to escape another dull day at school. Arun, with his level head and clear thinking, is the gel that binds them together, as the three get to know each other better. The technical skills Sam possesses are way beyond my capabilities and I echo Sunny’s confusion as he explains some of the gadgetry he whips up. Donna is forthright and street smart, with skills no child her age should have, but her sense of right and wrong is one that would put many adults to shame.

What I loved most was the culturally diverse cast of characters that reflect the city it is set in. Jason doesn’t shy away from tackling subconscious bias either as we see through early interactions between Sam and Donna.

Happy reading, and keep voting to make sure your favourite isn’t evicted next!

Friday Library Recommendations: CIBA Week 2

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It’s the second round of evictions, and I think there are going to be some upset children when they see which books have left the competition this week…

What’s The Story? – Soft And Sticky by Jeanne Willis, illustrated by Claire Powell

oft and Sticky are best friends, but Soft’s fluff always gets up Sticky’s nose, and Sticky sticks like glue to Soft! After one last argument, they decide to end their friendship – life will be better apart, won’t it? But they soon find they miss each other much more than they imagined…

If this was your favourite, try Wolf and Bear by Kate Rolfe

Wolf and Bear is a tender and heartwarming picture book that tells the story of a young wolf and her best friend, Bear, who share joyful adventures in nature. Whether they’re playing in the stream, gliding through the snow, or tumbling in the autumn leaves, their bond is full of fun and laughter. But the story also gently touches on more challenging emotions, as Bear sometimes feels sad and needs time alone.

This beautifully illustrated book addresses the sensitive topic of depression with kindness and understanding. It provides an accessible way to introduce young children to the complexities of emotions, especially when a loved one might need space or time to process difficult feelings. Through its thoughtful storytelling and authentic artwork, Wolf and Bear fosters compassion, empathy, and hope—perfect for helping children navigate their own emotional landscapes. A must-read for any family looking to open a gentle conversation about mental health.

Telling Tales – Peng And Spanners by Steve Webb

Meet your new favourite superheroes, a the sarcastic penguin and a clever cat with a toolbelt. Join Peng and Spanners as they investigate the craziest pizza mystery ever. A new graphic novel, perfect for fans of Dogman, Barry Loser and Bunny vs Monkey.

When the school pizza parlour disappears and a giant robot suddenly appears, Peng and Spanners know that only they can help the headmaster find his parlour before the school inspectors arrive and shut him down. There’s just one massive pesky robot to defeat, Cinderella the caretaker, who roars about rules and an incredible jail break to get out of first.

If this was your favourite, try Cat on The Run by Aaron Blabey

In this hilarious new series from the bestselling author of The Bad Guys, meet Princess Beautiful, the world’s NO.1 Cat Video Star, who finds herself wrongfully accused of a crime she didn’t commit. Now, she’s a cat on the run, trying to clear her name while staying one step ahead of the law.

Filled with humor and action, this story follows the pampered yet surprisingly tough Princess Beautiful as she navigates from internet sensation to public enemy number one. With vibrant illustrations and plenty of laughs, children will love the fast-paced adventure as they decide for themselves – is she a supervillain, an internet fool, or a hero who’s been underestimated? Either way, it’s a fun ride filled with twists and plenty of heart.

A great pick for young readers who enjoy quirky characters, wild chases, and lots of laughs!

Hooked On Books – Reggie Houser Has The Power by Helen Rutter

This is the story of how hypnosis saved a boy.

Reggie Houser has ADHD and struggles to make friends at school, plus his mum and teachers seem constantly weary about his erratic, high-energy ways. But when he sees a hypnotist perform on stage at the holiday park he visits, Reggie becomes obsessed with learning the skills of mind control – and he discovers he has an incredible talent for it!

First of all he hypnotises the dog to think he’s a frog, then makes his headmaster cluck like a chicken in assembly in front of the whole school. But then a group of mean kids supposedly take him under their wing and make him use his hypnosis talents for bad: stealing a chocolate bar from a shop and escalating to a bigger theft. Reggie must decide to use his skills for good only and come to trust his own brain to make decisions.

If this was your favourite, try Check Mates by Stewart Foster

This touching and clever story is a heartwarming journey of self-discovery and resilience. Readers are introduced to Felix, a boy struggling with ADHD who feels misunderstood by those around him. His school struggles and slipping grades lead others to label him as lazy, but Felix knows there’s more to the story. When his mother suggests he spend time with his grandfather, a relationship that seems difficult and unappealing at first, Felix discovers unexpected lessons that go far beyond chess.

Funny, heartfelt, and filled with an inspiring twist, this book beautifully explores the challenges of living with ADHD, while offering a touching portrayal of the bond between generations. As Felix learns from his grandfather in surprising ways, readers will be reminded that sometimes the best lessons come when least expected.

A perfect read for young readers who will relate to Felix’s struggles and triumphs.

Happy reading, and don’t forget to keep voting if you don’t want your favourite to be evicted next week!

Friday Library Recommendations: CIBA Week 1

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The first book has been evicted from each category, so I’ll be recommending a book to read if your favourite has left the competition.

What’s The Story – The Fastest Tortoise In Town by Howard Calvert, illustrated by Karen Obuhanych

Barbara Hendricks has entered a running race…but what was she thinking?! After all, she’s a tortoise – and everyone knows tortoises are the slowest of the slow. But for some reason, Lorraine – her best friend and owner – believes in her, and inspires her to train a little more each day. And when race day arrives, Lorraine’s support is enough to stop Barbara popping back into her shell. ln fact, Barbara soon discovers that with encouragement (and a bit of race day luck!), anything is possible! 

If this was your favourite book, you could try Space Tortoise by Ross Montgomery and David Litchfield

A beautifully illustrated and emotionally resonant story, of bravery, kindness, and connection. This heartfelt book follows a small tortoise, living alone in an old playground, who dreams of finding other tortoises. His loneliness leads him to gaze up at the night sky, where the stars seem to beckon, suggesting that the other tortoises might be hiding up there, beyond his reach.

Determined to find them, the little tortoise embarks on a magical adventure full of wonder and unexpected encounters. Through courage and a spirit of kindness, the tortoise learns valuable lessons about friendship, overcoming obstacles, and the importance of helping others.

With a gentle, hopeful message and captivating illustrations, this story is a perfect reminder for young readers that even the smallest creatures have big dreams and the power to make a difference.

Telling Tales – Tangled tales: The Spectre Inspectors and The Poltergeist Problem by W.G. White, illustrated by Nicolas Rix

Tangled Tales is a new series which has two stories in one book that follows a different character in the same story. In this title Rupert, Bertie, Mindi and Spooks the cat are the Spectre Inspectors: ghost hunters for hire. Except they have one problem: they haven’t actually ever seen, met or even captured a ghost. With Rupert, their leader, close to giving up, can one last case change it all? Flip the book over and then read The Poltergeist’s Problem where you will meet Arthur who died a long time ago and has wanted to be free from his house ever since… but can’t go further than the front door. When Bravewaite Manor is put up for sale however, Arthur will have to fight to save it. But how can he do that when he can barely switch off a light?

If this was your favourite, try Mortimer Keane: The Beast Of The Bay by Tim Healy and Chris Mould

A fast-paced, wickedly funny story, full of humour, heart, and a dash of chaos.

In this action-packed tale Mortimer’s wild plans are put to the test when the Beast of the Bay kidnaps six people on a school fossil-hunting trip. The coastguard is helpless, their helicopter wrecked by the monstrous creature. But never fear—Mortimer has his new aquaplane, and he’s determined to save the day. Can this madcap young inventor outsmart the beast before it’s too late?

With its rollicking rhymes, laugh-out-loud illustrations, and short chapters perfect for new readers, Mortimer Keene and the Beast of the Bay is an exciting and humorous read that will have kids eagerly turning the pages. The series is a fantastic choice for young scientists and budding adventurers who love a good dose of trouble and clever thinking.

Hooked On Books – The City Of Stolen Magic by Nazneen Ahmed Pathak

India, 1855. The British rule, and across the country, Indian magic is being stamped out. More terrifying still, people born with magic are being snatched from their homes. They are being taken across the sea – to England – by the all-powerful, sinister Company. But Chompa will discover far more treachery in London than she had bargained for – and will learn that every act of her rare magic comes with a price…

If this was your favourite, try Nush And The Stolen Emerald by Jasbinder Bilan

A captivating historical novel that will transport readers to a time of great turmoil and courage in this action-packed story set during British colonial rule in India.

Anushka, the young princess of a proud Indian kingdom, is furious as she watches the British East India Company take away her land and the priceless emerald that has been passed down through her family for generations. This precious gem, the size of an apple, is said to have the power to heal her country. When her father, the Maharaja, embarks on a journey to Buckingham Palace to meet Queen Victoria, Anushka decides to take matters into her own hands. She joins her father, determined to bring back the emerald and restore her family’s honor.

Through Anushka’s eyes, readers will gain a deeper understanding of colonialism, identity, and the fierce desire to protect one’s heritage. The story weaves together themes of bravery, mystery, and self-discovery, all while exploring the complexities of power and cultural identity during a turbulent period in history.

With rich historical detail, an unforgettable heroine, and a gripping plot, this is a must-read for young readers who enjoy stories that combine adventure with meaningful themes, and the perfect choice for readers interested in exploring history, identity, and the fight for justice in an accessible and engaging way.

Happy reading, and remember, if you don’t want your favourite to be next out, keep voting!

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