Book Review

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!

Friday Library Recommendations: National Storytelling Week

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February 1st is the start of National Storytelling Week which was established to promote the art of storytelling and highlight its cultural and educational value. Storytelling has been an integral part of human communication for centuries, and this week encourages people to reconnect with this age-old tradition whether through traditional tales, poetry or more modern stories that you have created yourself. With this in mind, I’ve chosen books that will help children unlock the stories within them.

First, I’ve picked How To Make A Picture Book by Elys Dolan. Storytelling has long been at the heart of family traditions, connecting generations through tales shared aloud or passed down in cherished books. Before we had the letters and words to tell stories, we recorded them through art – whether cave paintings, stained glass windows or even the Bayeux tapestry. Now, Make Your Own Picture Book invites children to create their own stories and contribute to this timeless tradition.

With the help of Dolan’s hilariously enthusiastic assistant, Bert, young creators will learn how to craft their own picture books. From sparking brilliant ideas to using colour and space to tell a story, this activity-filled guide is packed with tips, fun exercises, and plenty of laughs.

By encouraging children to take the reins of storytelling, this book not only fosters creativity but also helps them appreciate the art of crafting tales and the illustrations that accompany them. Parents can join in the fun, turning this experience into a family activity that honours the joy of shared stories. A perfect way to nurture young imaginations!

Next, I’ve chosen Unleash Your Creative Monster by Andy Jones, illustrated by Olaf Falafel, a fantastic, fun-filled guide to creative writing, perfect for sparking a love of storytelling in young minds. Winner of the Lollies 2023 Book Awards for Non-Fiction, this book offers practical advice, engaging story prompts, and an unforgettable cast of quirky creative monsters to inspire budding storytellers.

Inside, children will explore the building blocks of great stories, learn essential writing tools, and uncover the secrets to crafting captivating tales. With tips on finding inspiration, keeping a story moving, and developing their ideas, this guide makes storytelling approachable and exciting.

Ideal for nurturing creativity and boosting confidence, this book is a must-read for families looking to encourage imaginative thinking and storytelling at home. Whether your child is a reluctant writer or an aspiring author, Unleash Your Creative Monster will help them unleash their inner wordsmith!

Finally, I’ve picked Ten Word Tiny Tales of Love by Joseph Coelho, with various illustrators. Can a story of love be told in just ten words? According to Joseph Coelho, the answer is a resounding “YES!” In this remarkable collection, Coelho shares heartfelt ten-word tales, beautifully brought to life by illustrations from twenty top creators, including Jon Klassen, Jarvis, Bob Graham, Myo Yim, Victoria Turnbull, and Ken Wilson-Max.

Each tiny tale explores cherished moments—whether between siblings, in the healing embrace of nature, or through the bond with a beloved pet. These concise stories, paired with stunning artwork, create a springboard for young readers to let their imaginations soar.

The book also features a note from the author and two creative writing challenges, encouraging children to try their hand at crafting their very own ten-word stories. This unique combination of inspiration and interaction makes it the perfect gift for young storytellers ready to explore their creativity.

A truly delightful read for sparking imagination and fostering a love of storytelling!

Happy reading!

Friday Library Recommendations: Making Memories

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It’s our last week celebrating National Non Fiction November, and I’ve picked books that encourage us to enjoy nature together and make memories.

My first choice is Sunday Fun Day: A Nature Activity for Every Weekend of the Year by Katherine Halligan, illustrated by Jesus Verona.

Published in collaboration with the National Trust, this is a beautifully designed guide to spending quality time with loved ones through seasonal activities. With 52 diverse ideas—one for each Sunday of the year—this book offers a wonderful mix of outdoor adventures, creative crafts, and family-friendly recipes that are perfect for making every weekend feel special, whatever the weather. I can personally vouch for the carrot cake recipe!

The book is split into four seasonal sections making it easy to choose activities based on the natural resources to be found in local parks and gardens, so no matter the weather, you’re bound to find something to suit your mood and environment.

Easy to follow instructions are accompanied by vibrant illustrations for every activity so you can direct your grown up if you need an extra pair of hands. At the end of the book, you can find helpful kit lists for the kitchen and garden, and for crafting and adventuring, as well as a useful set of safety tips.

Packed with super seasonal activities for children (and adults!) of all ages, this book will make every family weekend a fantastic one.

I have also chosen Hike It: A complete guide to camping, hiking and backpacking in the great outdoors by Iron Tazz.

This fully-illustrated book is the perfect introduction to enjoying the great outdoors. Explore 30 diverse terrains, from snow-capped mountains to coastal trails to ancient forests, and discover the majesty of nature with glorious artwork throughout.

What I love about Hike It is its unique blend of informative content and vibrant artwork. Each of the 30 terrains featured in the book—ranging from snow-capped peaks to ancient forests and coastal trails—is brought to life through glorious illustrations that transport readers into the heart of nature. This visual richness, combined with straightforward explanations, makes the book appealing to children, sparking curiosity while offering valuable knowledge about the natural world.

Young adventurers will learn about navigating the trails and what to do if they get lost, which is a crucial skill for anyone venturing into the wilderness. There are also chapters on essential hiking gear, including the importance of packing the right equipment and how to stay safe in various weather conditions, such as heat, snow, and rain.

In addition to these basics, Hike It also emphasizes responsible hiking with tips on how to “leave no trace” and protect the environment, teaching all of us the importance of sustainability. The section on fire safety and setting up camp is particularly helpful, offering step-by-step guidance for creating a safe campsite and cooking in the wild.

My favourite section on the night sky, where we can learn how to find the North Star and navigate by the stars. This hands-on knowledge adds an extra layer of adventure, helping us feel more connected to the natural world in a meaningful way.

With its engaging illustrations, practical advice, and empowering message, this book is sure to inspire the next generation of hikers to lace up their boots and hit the trails.

Happy reading!

Year 5 interview author, Dan Smith

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Having loved The Invasion Of Crooked Oak, Year 5 were thrilled when we got an early copy of Dan’s latest book, The Beast Of Harwood Forest to read before having the chance to send our questions off to him. So imagine our utter delight, when on reading our questions, Dan offered to answer them live in our classroom! But first – the book!

What’s hiding in Harwood Forest …?

When Pete, Nancy and Krish arrive at Heathland Camp for a school trip, they’re in for an adventure – just not the kind they were expecting. Nearby sits the abandoned Harwood Institute. The crumbling buildings are out of bounds but strange screams come from the surrounding forest at night. Secrecy surrounds the events that took place at the institute during the war, so Pete and his friends make it their mission to find out the truth. But the forest is hiding a sinister secret, and the trio could be in real danger…

Are some mysteries best left undisturbed?

With links to the oldest written epic poem, Beowulf, and to the mysterious world of biological engineering, The Beast Of Harwood Forest is an utterly  gripping, thriller of a book packed with suspense and delivering a growing sense of dread as we head deeper into the forest. Sci-fi horror for children at its finest, that delivers just enough scares to get hearts racing without causing nightmares!

Each of our main characters have a strong personality and together they make a great team. Chris King’s illustrations really bring the characters, settings and The Beast to life!

There are real ethical debates within this story that will help to grow empathy too.

Here’s what Year 5 thought:

  • I thought it was really interesting and I just kept wanting to read more.
  • It was really exciting and I loved listening to it.
  • It was absolutely fantastic – I loved everything about it!
  • I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
  • It was packed full of adventure and suspense and was a bit scary too. 
  • It’s inspired me to find out more about the kind of experiments he talks about in the book!

And now, to the interview!

1. Miss Cleveland has a lot of amazing books on her bookcase (including all of the ones you have written for children). Why should we pick yours?

One of the most important things about reading for pleasure is that you have a big selection of books to choose from, so it’s great to hear that Miss Cleveland has so many on her shelves. I also think it’s important to choose the books YOU want to read, so I would never say that you have to pick mine. But, if you’re looking for some sci-fi action, a story about Viking revenge, some World War II adventure, or a creepy mystery … then I’m your guy!

2. Which of your characters are you most like?

I’m not a lot like any of my characters, but I’m a little bit like all of them. Does that make sense? I think all of my characters have a little bit of me in them, but I’m not brave enough to be Pete, or clever enough to be Krish, or inventive enough to be Nancy.

3. How do you come up with your sci-fi villains?

I usually use a mixture of things that are real and things that are made-up. To me, that makes them feel more believable. For instance, the cause of the trouble in The Invasion of Crooked Oak is inspired by a very real fungus that infects insects, and The Beast of Harwood Forest is inspired by the real belief that there is something strange living in Harwood Forest – not far from where I live. I then add my own twist by taking inspiration from books and films and video games.

4. Have you ever come face to face with a beast in real life?

Well, if I had, I’d probably have to keep it secret …

5. How is writing a series different from writing a stand alone book?

The Crooked Oak stories are a series without being a series because they don’t have to be read in any particular order. That means I don’t have to worry too much about continuity, but if you read all the books you get a much better picture of who the characters are. And that’s one of the biggest differences between writing a series and writing a stand-alone book – the characters. I’ve had so much pleasure writing about Pete, Nancy, and Krish for a second time, and it’s been fun throwing them into different creepy situations. We might even see them again sometime soon …

6. You have written books for adults and children. Which do you prefer?

I like writing both, but writing for young readers often feels more fun. It also feels more special because young readers express so much wonder and excitement for stories – something that often inspires me.

7. What would you do if you weren’t an author?

What I’d really like to be is Han Solo. He is, after all, the coolest smuggler in the galaxy. Failing that, I’d like to be Bear Grylls -but I’m not brave enough- or a rock star -but I have no musical talent. Maybe I should stick to being an author.

8. If you had to be in one of your stories which one would you be in?

That’s a tricky one. All of my stories are so dangerous. Below Zero would be far too cold. I’d probably be the first to get infected in Crooked Oak, or fall victim to The Beast of Harwood Forest. Maybe I’d be better off in Boy X, trying to survive on the jungle island of Isla Negra … at least it would be sunny!

9. Did you have a favourite book as a child?

I loved Tintin books when I was younger (and still do), but I think my favourite book was ‘The Runaways’ by Victor Canning. Don’t worry, no one else seems to have heard of it either. It was the first book in a trilogy about a boy called Smiler.

10. And finally, which characters from science fiction would you like to go on a socially distanced picnic with? Is there anyone you would definitely not want to be there?

I reckon the kids from Stranger Things would be fun at a picnic. Or the gang from Guardians of The Galaxy. I definitely wouldn’t invite Darth Vader because he’d just spend the whole time being grumpy. And the alien from Alien can stay at home, too.

Huge thanks to Year 5 for coming up with such amazing questions, Barrington Stoke for arranging for Dan to join us in our classroom, and to Dan for such an fun and engaging afternoon.

With comments like, “It’s just amazing being able to chat with an actual author,” “I’ll remember this afternoon forever,”  “He was very funny and gave us great answers,” and “It’s made me want to be an author too!” it was a truly inspirational afternoon!

Armistice Runner by Tom Palmer

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This week’s book recommendation links to Remembrance Sunday, and is suitable for children in Year 4 up…

Lily is a fell runner and is training for the first big race of the season in the Lake District village where her grandparents live. She discovers from her grandmother (who has Alzheimer’s disease) that her great-great grandfather was a trench runner during the last few days of  World War I. Given a box of his things, Lily becomes enthralled with his trench running logs which contain far more information than times and distances – it’s a diary of his time in France.

Full of family, endurance, determination and heart, this is a well researched reminder of the lives of the men in the trenches that we remember this Sunday, and how we can honour their memory through our actions today. Kindness and empathy echo throughout the story that you are sure to be as determined to finish as Lily was to read Ernest’s diary entries.

 

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