Book Review

2026 is the National Year Of Reading, and BookTrust have put together a calendar of Monthly Missions to try. To fend off the January blues, this month’s mission is to read a book that makes you laugh, so that is my theme for this week’s recommendations.

For our youngest children, I have chosen Space Pirate Bears by Alastair Chisholm, illustrated by Jez Tuyo

This energetic and imaginative book is a wonderful celebration of storytelling, creativity and the magic that can grow out of an ordinary day at home. Jamie and Abby are bored. Very bored. With Dad attempting to work from his dining table, the children need something to spark their imaginations, and a story seems to be the only possible answer. What follows is a wonderfully inventive tale that transforms a quiet home into the far reaches of outer space.

Dad’s improvised story introduces a looming threat to the universe: something grey, dull and dangerously powerful. With the Star Defenders on the brink of defeat, there is only one hope left. Enter the mightiest heroes in the cosmos, the Space Pirate Bears. As the adventure unfolds, the real fun lies in the way Jamie and Abby shape the story themselves, debating who these mysterious heroes should be and what they are capable of. Their differing ideas fuel the narrative, creating plenty of laugh out loud moments and unexpected twists along the way.

This book is fast-paced, action-packed and filled with playful surprises that will delight young readers. At the same time, it gently highlights the importance of cooperation, creativity and listening to one another. Parents will enjoy the familiar setting and the warm portrayal of family life, while children will be swept up in the excitement of an intergalactic adventure.

An entertaining and exciting reminder that boredom can be the starting point for something extraordinary, especially when imagination takes the lead.

For newly independent readers, I’ve picked the latest release from two time Coventry Inspiration Book Award Winner, Ben Davis – the hilarious Postman Planet, the first book in a brand-new, highly-illustrated series full of cosmic capers that will have you in stitches.

Postman Planet has a secret. A BIG one. He claims to be the greatest postman in the Universe, but the truth is… he’s only nine. And right now, he’s racing to the Planet of Fluffy Unicorns with the most important delivery of his life: an inflatable planet that’s rapidly losing air. With only his irritating new assistant Stamp, a half-robot, half-dog who won’t stop beeping, Postman Planet must save the planet before it goes completely flat.

It is laugh-out-loud funny from start to finish. Ben has captured that frantic, silly energy that kids just adore, and his energy is perfectly matched by Yasmin’s fabulously funny illustrations throughout the book. Beyond the chaos and the giggles, there are some really lovely underlying themes of friendship, sharing, and the importance of teamwork.

I loved how accessible it is, and I know that with its short chapters and pages packed with hilarious illustrations, it’s a dream for reluctant readers or anyone aged 6 and up. I devoured this in one sitting and can’t wait for more from this series!

And finally for our confident readers, I’ve chosen Grimstink by Daniel Peak, a hugely entertaining book that delivers a brilliant blend of science fiction, humour and everyday family life, making it a real treat for readers however old.

The story opens with a delightfully absurd contrast: Alien Grimstink has travelled ninety thousand light years to destroy all life on Earth, while 13-year-old Layla Tenby has ventured half a mile to deliver leaflets advertising affordable fence panels. Fate, however, has other plans, and when the pair unexpectedly swap places, chaos quickly follows.

Grimstink’s grand plans for annihilation are derailed by the very British obstacles of traffic wardens, shopping precincts and the baffling complexities of ordering a Subway sandwich. Meanwhile, Layla finds herself zapped to a distant planet, surrounded by black holes, mining satellites and quantum spaceships, and reluctantly tasked with saving the future of the galaxy. Her determination to get home, rather than become a hero, adds plenty of warmth and humour to the adventure.

Adding another layer of fun is Reece, Layla’s younger brother, whose unlikely friendship with Grimstink raises the stakes even further. Is Reece the key to the galaxy’s survival, or will this peculiar bond spell disaster for everyone involved? From outer space to the middle aisle of Aldi, the story hops joyfully between the cosmic and the familiar.

Packed with laugh-out-loud moments and clever twists, this book explores friendship, responsibility and seeing the world from a different perspective. It is a fast-paced, imaginative read that proves even the biggest adventures can begin in the most ordinary places.

Happy reading!

What a wintery day – the perfect weather for closing the curtains and curling up indoors with a good book!

My first choice this week is King Winter’s Birthday by Jonathan Freedland, illustrated by Emily Sutton. a rich, thoughtful, beautifully illustrated picturebook. Written by bestselling author Jonathan Freedland and illustrated with warmth and elegance by Emily Sutton, it brings a classic fairy-tale tone to a story that feels both gentle and meaningful.

The tale begins with King Winter, who wants his birthday celebration to be truly special. He invites all of his brothers and sisters to join him: Queen Spring, King Summer and Queen Autumn. Together they play magical games, filling the palace with joy and wonder. Outside, however, the natural world begins to change. The wind and the trees whisper a warning, and something strange is happening beyond the palace walls.

Inspired by a story by Ulrich Alexander Boschwitz, written while he was interned on the Isle of Man during the Second World War, this book carries a quiet depth beneath its fairy-tale surface. It offers children a gentle introduction to the idea that the world works best when things are in balance.

Celebrating the rhythms of the seasons and the restorative power of nature, this timeless picture book invites discussion, reflection and shared reading.

My next wintery pick is Anya’s Quest by Jasbinder Bilan, illustrated by Seema Bowri, a powerful and uplifting read that blends myth, music and environmental themes into a richly imagined tale.

When the earth’s lullaby begins to fade, the mighty river goddess Ganga knows the world is in danger. Hearing a long-forgotten melody, she is led to a palace high in the icy Himalaya and to Anya, a young girl with a vital role to play. With Anya and her friend Mahi riding on Ganga’s dragon, Makara, the story unfolds into an epic journey through time and across India.

Along the way, the children search for lost lullabies and elusive spirit animals, meeting friends old and new and learning to face their fears. Inspired by Hindu mythology, the book gently introduces young readers to ideas about caring for the planet, the importance of harmony, and the power of hope and courage.

Lyrical, imaginative and full of colour, this is a story to be shared and discussed. It encourages curiosity about the natural world and different cultures, while offering a hopeful message about protecting our fragile planet. A truly special book to treasure.

And finally, I’ve chosen Fia And The Last Snow Deer by Eilish Fisher, illustrated by Dermot Flynn, a beautifully crafted story which won the Children’s Book of the Year at the Irish Book Awards last year, and has just won The Week Junior’s Book Award.

Set in snowy, prehistoric Ireland, the story follows young Fia and her magical snow deer, Solas. Fia shares a deep and special bond with Solas, but when her village is trapped in what seems like an endless winter, fear and desperation take hold. The villagers believe in an ancient prophecy that speaks of the return of sunlight and life, but only if a great sacrifice is made.

Determined not to let her home fall into despair, Fia, together with her cousin Mish, and Solas, set off on a brave journey to find the Deer Mother. This mythical figure is said to awaken the sun at the winter solstice, and she might hold the key to saving their village. However, the wilderness is full of challenges and shadows, testing their courage and friendship at every turn.

Eilish Fisher’s writing is both powerful and tender, weaving themes of hope, kindness, and the strength found in friendship. The tale’s rich setting and emotional depth are beautifully enhanced by Dermot Flynn’s stunning illustrations, which bring the icy landscapes and magical creatures vividly to life.

Fia and the Last Snow Deer is a heartfelt and inspiring lyrical read, perfect for young readers who enjoy fantasy and adventure, while also reminding us all of the importance of bravery and love in the face of hardship.

Happy reading!

It’s my last #FridayLibraryRecommendations of 2025, so I had to share some of my favourite Christmas books.

For our youngest readers, I’ve chosen The Street Where Santa Lives by Harriet Howe, illustrated by Julia Christians, which celebrates community spirit, empathy and the joy of helping others.

This charming festive story introduces young readers to a thoughtful little girl who is the only one to notice when an elderly man moves in next door. With his snowy white beard, rounded tummy and talent for fixing broken toys in his workshop, she becomes convinced that he must be Santa Claus hiding in plain sight.

When the could-be-Santa neighbour becomes unwell, the little girl takes action. With determination and kindness, she gathers the whole street to help care for him, reminding everyone how important it is to look out for those who may be lonely or needing support, especially older members of the community. Her plan brings neighbours together in a wonderfully warm and hopeful way. The big question, of course, is whether their combined efforts will help him recover in time for Christmas Eve.

Harriet Howe’s writing is gentle, humorous and full of heart, making this an ideal shared read during the festive season. Julia Christians’ cosy illustrations add to the magic, filling the pages with warmth, character and seasonal charm.

My next pick is The Christmas Wish-Tastrophe by Cariad Lloyd, illustrated by Ma Pe, a delightful festive tale. It has recently be released in paperback with the new title, Lydia Marmalade and the Christmas Wish.

Lydia Marmalade, a brave and big-hearted girl who arrives at Lady Partridge’s grand mansion with nothing but her trusty sausage dog, Colin. Recently bereaved and longing for a place to call home, Lydia hopes this winter will bring her a fresh start. Unfortunately, Lady Partridge has other ideas, making it clear that Lydia must be perfectly behaved throughout the season or risk being sent away altogether.

What unfolds is a wonderfully warm and witty adventure, filled with mischief, magic and mayhem. Lydia soon encounters a playful winter sprite whose well-meant help often causes more trouble than expected. Add in a grumpy butler, a perpetually peckish Colin, and the most magical night of the year, and Lydia’s simple wish quickly becomes the spark for a full-blown wish-tastrophe.

Despite the chaos, at the heart of this story lies Lydia’s determination, kindness and hope. Children will enjoy the lively characters and snowy escapades, while adults will appreciate the gentle messages about belonging, resilience and finding light in difficult times.

And finally, for our oldest readers, it wouldn’t be Christmas without a who-dun-it from Fleur Hitcock, and Murder At Christmas is a gripping festive mystery.

It follows Grace, who returns home to Bath after a long and rather miserable school term, eager to spend Christmas with her mum and younger brother, Billy. Her excitement, however, doesn’t last long. A shocking murder at their hotel disrupts the holiday, and matters become even more unsettling when Grace’s mum suddenly disappears.

Left frightened and unsure whom to trust, Grace is determined to uncover the truth. With Billy beside her, she teams up with two new friends, Olive and Doug. Clever, quick-thinking and brave, the trio help Grace piece together the puzzling events of the night her mum vanished. As the children follow clues around the festive city, they begin to realise that nothing – and no one – at the hotel is quite what they seem.

The story is packed with twists, tension and clever detective work, all set against a wintry backdrop that keeps the pages turning. Despite the darker themes, the book remains accessible, focusing on friendship, bravery and the importance of working together when things feel overwhelming.

Happy reading!

Next Tuesday is Armistice Day, so this week, I have chosen books that highlight the bravery and resilience shown throughout the Second World War.

My first choice is War Dog by Tom Palmer, Illustrated by Carolina Rabei; a moving and beautifully illustrated picture book that tells the extraordinary true story of Judy, a brave and loyal dog who lived through the Second World War.

Judy is the mascot of a ship called HMS Grasshopper and quickly becomes an important member of the crew. She spends her days catching rats, looking out for anyone who might fall overboard, and listening carefully for signs of danger. Most of all, she offers comfort and companionship to the sailors during a frightening and uncertain time.

Judy’s bond with the crew, especially a kind man named Frank, shows the deep connection between people and animals. When disaster strikes and the soldiers are taken prisoner, Judy is separated from Frank. She must find the courage to survive and reunite with the people she loves. Her loyalty and bravery give the men hope and strength when they need it most.

This remarkable story is based on real events. Judy was the only dog to be made a prisoner of war and was awarded the Dickin Medal, which is an honour given to animals for their bravery during wartime. Tom Palmer tells her story with warmth and clarity, making it accessible for young readers while also sparking thoughtful conversations about history, kindness and courage.

Carolina Rabei’s illustrations bring Judy’s journey to life with emotion and vivid detail, making the book both educational and deeply touching. A special non-fiction section at the back of the book shares fascinating facts about animals in wartime, which adds an extra layer of learning.

War Dog is an inspiring and heartfelt read for families. It is perfect for children who love animals or history and is a wonderful way to introduce them to real stories of heroism.

My next choice, for our older chilrden is Shrapnel Boys by Jenny Pearson; a gripping and heartfelt story set during the Second World War. It follows Ronnie Smith, a young boy growing up in London in 1939. When war begins, Ronnie feels a mixture of fear and excitement. At night he lies awake listening to the bombs falling, but in the morning he races out with his friends to collect pieces of shrapnel from the streets. To them, it is a thrilling game, but the danger around them is very real.

Ronnie’s world is not just shaped by the war outside. Trouble is also brewing at home. His brother is keeping secrets and getting involved with mysterious new friends and a risky job. Ronnie begins to worry that his brother may be in more danger than he realises. When Ronnie tries to help, he uncovers secrets far bigger than he expected, secrets that could affect more than just his family.

Jenny Pearson captures the bravery, fears and friendships of children living through wartime with warmth and honesty. She shows how ordinary children had to grow up quickly, facing challenges and responsibilities that would be unimaginable today. Ronnie is a relatable and courageous character, and readers will cheer him on as he tries to protect the people he loves.

This book offers children an exciting and fast-paced story while also giving them a glimpse into real history. It is perfect for sparking conversations about family, courage and what it was like to be a child during the war. Shrapnel Boys is both thrilling and moving, making it a fantastic choice for young readers who enjoy adventure and stories about friendship and resilience.

And finally, I’ve picked a non-fiction book that is perfect for sharing with a grown-up. Blitz Kids: True Stories From Children Of War Time Britain by Duncan Barrett and Nuala Calvi. a powerful and moving book that shares the real experiences of children who lived through the Blitz during the Second World War. It paints a vivid picture of what life was like for young people in cities across the UK as bombs fell from the skies and the world around them changed overnight.

Through the voices of children like Kitty from London, Christopher from Liverpool and Doreen from Coventry, the book brings history to life in a way that feels real and immediate. These children spent nights in cold and crowded air raid shelters, listening to the terrifying sounds of planes and bombs. In the morning, some discovered their homes and schools had been destroyed. Many lost pets, possessions and even family members.

Yet these children also showed incredible resilience. They made their own fun, collecting shrapnel, exploring bombed-out houses and chasing American soldiers for chocolate and chewing gum. Their stories are a reminder of how strong and brave young people can be, even in the darkest times.

This book is best shared with an adult, as some of the stories can be emotional and may raise important questions about war, loss and courage. Reading together can help children talk through what they are learning and understand the historical context more clearly.

Blitz Kids is a wonderful resource for families who want to explore real history in a meaningful and personal way. It helps children connect to the past, understand how it felt to live through wartime Britain, and appreciate the resilience of a remarkable generation. It is both a moving tribute and a powerful conversation starter for young readers and their families.

Happy reading!

With Halloween over half-term, I thought it would be the perfect time to share some spooky books that are best read when you wake up, rather than before going to sleep…

This Book Is Not A Bedtime Story by Eoin McLaughlin, illustrated by Robert Starling is a delightful twist on the traditional nighttime read. While the title boldly claims the opposite, this book is in fact perfect for snuggling up with before lights out.

The story is told from the point of view of a group of monsters who are convinced they are absolutely terrifying. They are determined to make the reader feel scared, setting scenes in spooky woods, creaky haunted houses, ghost ships and pitch-black caves. They use big voices, scary faces and all the tricks they can think of. However, it becomes clear very quickly that they are not scary at all. In fact, they are rather sweet.

I love the mix of gentle humour and clever subversion of expectations. The monsters, far from being fearsome, are adorably insecure. Their attempts to frighten are more funny than frightening, and children will enjoy being in on the joke. Adults will appreciate how the story gently explores feelings of self-doubt and the desire to fit in, all within a charming and accessible narrative.

The illustrations are bright and playful, perfectly matching the monsters’ silly personalities. Rob Starling does a brilliant job of bringing each character to life, making them more endearing than eerie.

By the end, the monsters are ready to give up scaring and simply settle down for a good night’s sleep. Funny, reassuring and heartwarming, this read that is ideal for bedtime, despite what the title says.

Next, I have chosen a book that will make you loud and scream in equal measure; Mallory Vayle and Maggoty Skull in The Beast From Beneath by Martin Howard, illustrated by Pete Williamson.

This fast-paced, laugh-out-loud adventure sees Mallory, a young necromancer-in-training, growing into her magical powers with the help (and occasional hindrance) of her chatty, wise-cracking skull companion, Maggoty. When a magical mishap at the hands of her overambitious Aunt Lilith unleashes a terrifying Nightmare creature, Mallory must venture into the depths of the creepy Carrion Castle to set things right. Along the way, she encounters ghosts, monsters, and even Death himself!

Packed with witty conversations, clever twists, and wonderfully gothic illustrations by Pete Williamson, this book strikes a brilliant balance between funny and frightful. While perfect for Halloween, its engaging characters and imaginative storyline make it a fun read at any time of year.

Ideal for confident readers in Key Stage 2 and above who enjoy humour, magic, and a touch of the macabre, with just enough scares to keep things exciting, but never too much for a primary school audience.

And finally, grab your cushion of comfort for my final choice; a compelling, claustrophobic read from Christopher Edge that will change a favourite childhood game forever. Fear Files: Hide And Seek is the first in a brand new horror-themed series packed with spine-tingling stories with a mysterious twist.

Presented as part of a secretive database called “The Darkive”, the story is framed as a first-hand account of a terrifying, unexplained encounter – one of many creepy tales said to be backed up by real evidence. This clever concept adds an extra layer of suspense for curious young readers who enjoy a good mystery.

In this instalment, Adam and his best friend Sol are on a camping trip that takes a chilling turn when they stumble across an eerie, abandoned ghost town. When a strange game of hide and seek begins, they quickly realise something, or someone, is trying to find them… and it’s not part of the plan.

I have to be honest, as someone who isn’t a fan of horror (even books written for children terrify me) this had me gripped from beginning to end. I loved the addition of clues, encyclopedia entries, newspaper cuttings, photos and floor plans that made me feel part of the team, investigating the eerie events.

Full of tension, atmospheric writing, and just the right level of fear for our oldest primary school readers, Hide and Seek is perfect for children who enjoy a thrillingly original good scare.

Happy reading, and don’t have nightmares!

Tomorrow is World Food day, so what better way to celebrate than to sit down with a brilliant book, your favourite snacks and dig into food for the brain too!

My first choice is My Rice Is Best by Selina Brown, illustrated by Maxwell A. Oginni, a mesme-ricing celebration of food, culture and friendship!

The story follows Shane, a young boy who is absolutely certain that his favourite dish, rice and peas, is the best rice in the world. But when he brings it to school for lunch, his friend Yinka passionately argues that nothing can top her jollof rice. What begins as a friendly disagreement quickly turns into a light-hearted showdown, as the children try to determine whose rice reigns supreme.

Through playful banter and relatable lunchtime moments, this book introduces children to the rich diversity of foods enjoyed in different cultures. The illustrations are full of energy and warmth, capturing the characters’ expressions and emotions perfectly. It’s easy for young readers to see themselves in Shane and Yinka, whether they’ve had similar food debates or just love sharing their favourite meals.

I love how this book gently encourages curiosity about other cultures while celebrating children’s pride in their own backgrounds. The story opens the door to discussions about heritage, family traditions, and trying new foods, all in a way that’s accessible and fun for younger readers.

A celebration of the dishes that bring us together, and the friendly rivalries that make lunchtime a little more exciting, this book is perfect for promoting inclusion, empathy, and a love of storytelling through everyday experiences.

Next, I’ve chosen a unique book offers something a little different: part storybook, part recipe collection, Lunch At 10 Pomegranate Street by Felicita Sala, is a beautifully illustrated picture book that celebrates the joy of cooking, sharing, and community.

Set in a charming apartment building, the story follows the residents of 10 Pomegranate Street as they prepare dishes from around the world in anticipation of a shared lunch. Each apartment reveals a new character and cuisine — from Mr Singh and his daughter stirring up a fragrant coconut dahl, to Maria expertly mashing avocados for her homemade guacamole. As lunchtime approaches, everyone brings their dish to the communal table, highlighting the beauty of diversity and togetherness through food.

I love that each resident’s story is accompanied by a simple, child-friendly recipe that young readers can try at home with an adult. The instructions are easy to follow, with wholesome ingredients and minimal fuss, making it a lovely way to introduce children to cooking and different cultural traditions.

Felicita Sala’s illustrations are rich and inviting, filled with warm colours and delightful details that draw children into each home. The book radiates a cosy, inclusive atmosphere that makes it perfect for autumn reading or any time you want to spark a conversation about food, culture, and kindness.

Lunch at 10 Pomegranate Street is a visual and sensory treat that invites families to cook, read, and connect.

And finally, I’ve picked Pizza Pete And The Perilous Potion by Carrie Sellon, illustrated by Sarah Horne, funny, heart-warming adventures with a sprinkle of magic.

Pete lives happily above his dad’s pizza shop and has no intention of leaving home again. Something happened 25 days ago, that made him promise himself he would never go outside. But, when a fancy new restaurant opens nearby and starts attracting all their customers, Pete faces a difficult decision. With the family business at risk and the chance they might lose their home, he must decide whether to stay inside or step up to help.

Luckily, Pete’s friend Anna is full of ideas. Together, they come up with a clever plan. While exploring the attic, they discover a mysterious old briefcase that leads to the invention of magical pizzas. Soon, word spreads and a queue of excited customers begins to form down the road. But with only four days to save the shop, will their plan be enough?

This is a warm and funny story that blends real-life emotions with a touch of fantasy. It explores themes such as anxiety, bravery and friendship in a gentle and encouraging way. Pete is a relatable character for children who may feel nervous about change, and his story shows how small steps can lead to big achievements.

With a fast-moving plot, loveable characters and lots of imagination, Pizza Pete is a laugh out loud funny read that celebrates teamwork and creativity. A brilliant choice for independent readers or a fun book to enjoy together, especially for children who love stories with heart, and pizza. And with the third book in the series publishing just last week, there is plenty more to enjoy.

Happy reading!