Coventry Inspiration Book Awards

It’s our final week celebrating this year’s Coventry Inspiration Book Awards shortlisted books, and we look at the second runners up. If any of these were your favourite books, do try my recommendations for what to read next.

Our last book in the What’s The Story category is the hilarious Frank The Pizza by Eoin McLaughlin illustrated by Mike Byrne.

Making friends isn’t always easy, and all Frank the Pizza wants is someone to accept him for who he is. So when he gets invited to a birthday party, his parents worry and warn him to be careful…but Frank is already planning his outfit. At the party, no one seems to get his jokes and he ends up lonely in the corner – until he meets Frances. As the night goes on, these new friends become more daring and suddenly the party takes an unexpected turn. Were Frank’s parents right? Is life dangerous when you’re delicious?

If you loved Frank The Pizza, do try Bun On The Run by Smriti Halls, illustrated by Chris Jevons the perfect story to have children giggling from the very first page. Bernard may look like an ordinary iced bun—perfectly round, perfectly squidgy, and topped with the brightest cherry—but he’s hiding a huge secret: he dreams of adventure!

Fed up with sitting on a plate in the baker’s shop, Bernard decides it’s finally time to make a run for it. What follows is a gloriously funny chase as he discovers that life outside the bakery is far more dangerous than he expected… especially when hungry humans start eyeing him up for tea.

Smriti Halls’ playful, rhythmic language makes this a joy to read aloud, and Chris Jevons’ bold, expressive illustrations bring Bernard’s big personality to life on every page. Children will love spotting the visual jokes, cheering Bernard on, and predicting what sticky situation he might end up in next.

Perfect for shared reading, this is a deliciously silly picture book that celebrates bravery, determination, and the power of a good sprinkle of sugar.

Our final book in Telling Tales is The Night Forest by Polly Ho-Yen and Illustrated by Sojung Kim-Mcarthy.

Polly Ho-Yen’s gently magical storytelling shines in this beautifully illustrated early chapter book, brought to life by Sojung Kim-McCarthy’s atmospheric artwork. Young readers follow Ziggy, who begins waking in a mysterious night-time forest whenever they fall asleep—whether at Mum’s or Dad’s house. What starts as something frightening slowly becomes an empowering journey as Ziggy learns to face their fears and understand the feelings stirred by moving between two homes. With its tender exploration of separation, night terrors and courage, this enchanting tale offers comfort and reassurance, making it a brilliant choice for children navigating big emotions.

The Wobbly Life of Scarlett Fife by Maz Evans and Chris Jevons Scarlett Fife has BIG feelings, the kind that don’t just bubble up, they blast out in spectacular, world‑shaking ways. Maz Evans has created another brilliantly funny, heartfelt story that takes a thoughtful look at anxiety, friendship and growing up, all wrapped in a fast‑paced, laugh‑out‑loud adventure.

Scarlett is trying her very best to stay calm, especially when her family has exciting (and slightly overwhelming) news to share. But the more she tries to squash her feelings down, the more they burst out in increasingly explosive ways – we’re talking collapsing vases, flying objects, and even an unforgettable incident involving 2,669 sugar cubes. Every wobble of worry seems to make Scarlett’s world literally shake, and soon she realises she can’t keep everything bottled up, no matter how hard she tries.

Maz Evans’ trademark humour shines through every chapter, perfectly balanced with warmth and empathy. Scarlett is a wonderfully relatable character for any child who has ever felt their emotions run away with them, and Chris Jevons’ lively illustrations add even more energy and heart to the story.

This book opens the door to important conversations about managing big feelings, while keeping young readers thoroughly entertained. Honest, hilarious and full of heart, The Wobbly Life of Scarlett Fife is guaranteed to make families laugh together – and maybe breathe a little deeper too.

Our final book for Hooked On Books is After by Padraig Kenny, illustrated by Steve McCarthy. This gripping dystopian adventure offers a powerful blend of hope, humanity and heart.

Jen and her dad journey across a silent, post‑technology world, searching for others after a mysterious collapse known as the Flood. But Dad isn’t quite what he seems—he’s an AI who survived by glitching free of the system, a secret Jen must protect at all costs. As they navigate empty landscapes and new dangers, the story explores what truly makes someone family, and where real threats lie.

Thought‑provoking yet full of warmth, this is a compelling read for confident readers in Year 5 and up who enjoy adventurous, emotionally rich stories.

If you loved After, do try TrooFriend by Kirsty Applebaum. Intelligent and insightful, TrooFriend is an enthralling tale of family, friendship and what it means to be human, with a sinister undercurrent that sweeps you along.

In a world where humanity is dependent on technology, to the extent of providing a safe replacement to human friends for children, we see the desperate need for human connection, be it from family or friends.

Sarah’s issues at home and school are exceptionally relatable, as are the decisions she makes to be popular. The use of Ivy to highlight the right or wrong of those decisions is subtly done as we see her begin to think for herself and become a sentient being, and helps to create the growing sense of unease underpinning the story.

Sarah grows throughout, from an angry, selfish child who doesn’t realise what she has and is fed up of being alone, to a caring, compassionate child who recognises her mistakes and owns them.

With themes of friendship, loneliness, morality, ethics around A.I., and what it means to be human, there are so many different discussions and debates that can arise. The news coverage of the growing crisis shows how quickly it can stir up panic within a populus, and how differing groups can be labelled very quickly, and those labels stick, whether proved or not.

Happy reading!

While we have celebrated our winners, we still have two books in each category to celebrate – our runners-up. So, over the next two weeks, we’ll look at what to try next if one of your favourites missed out on the top spot.

Our first runner up for What’s The Story is Letters To A Monster by Patricia Forde and Sarah Warburton. It’s a dark and stormy night, and Sophie knows that there is a MONSTER hiding under her bed. So, like any sensible child, she decides to send him a letter.

Dear Monster,
I know you are hiding under my bed. I hear you breathing. This is your last warning. Leave now or I will call THE MONSTER POLICE. I have their number.
Yours truly,
Sophie

As the letters fly back and forth, Sophie begins to wonder if Monster isn’t as scary as she thought. What if he’s the friend she’s been looking for all along?

If you loved Letters To A Monster, do try Billy And The Beast by Nadia Shireen, a story bursting with fun, bravery and just the right amount of monster mayhem. Billy and her ever‑reliable sidekick, Fatcat, are enjoying a peaceful woodland stroll when a terrible rumble interrupts their day… and it’s not Fatcat’s tummy this time! A Terrible Beast is on the loose, and he’s cooking up a Terrible Soup made from all of their woodland friends.

But he hasn’t reckoned with Billy. With her quick thinking—and a few handy tricks tucked safely in her magnificent hair—she sets off to rescue everyone, including some extremely cute bunny rabbits. What follows is a joyful, fast‑paced adventure packed with humour, heart and plenty to spot in the illustrations.

Nadia Shireen’s playful, energetic text makes this a fantastic read‑aloud, while her bold, expressive artwork brings every character and creature to life. It’s a brilliant mix of danger and silliness, and Billy’s determination makes her a hero to cheer for from start to finish. Billy and the Beast is a lively celebration of courage, kindness and outsmarting anyone who tries to cause trouble.

Our first runner up for Telling Tales is The Floofs Reach For The Stars by Penelope O’Neill, a fabulous tale of magical mysteries and friendship.

Meet The Floofs. A Floof is a Floof. Not a rabbit, not a rat, not even a mouse. Join them as they go on three adventures full of fun, new friends and just a little bit of magic. The Floofs are there to help each other solve problems of the cosmic kind. From figuring out why the stars in the night sky are disappearing and helping someone who finds themselves far from home, to joining a friend on their quest to find a quiet place to read their book. Whether the adventure is out of this world or a little bit closer to home, they are always fun when you have your friends to help you along the way.

If you loved The Floofs try Detective Beans and The Case Of The Missing Hat by Li Chen, a warm, whisker‑twitching mystery that young readers will race through with a smile. Beans, a determined kitten detective with a smart trench coat and an even smarter mind, wakes to discover the unthinkable: his detective hat is missing. With his loyal friend Biscuit cheering him on, he sets off across bustling Cat Town to solve the case.

What follows is a wonderfully playful adventure filled with colourful characters, comedic encounters, and just the right amount of mystery for primary readers. From suspicious birds to a magician who may or may not know more than he’s letting on, each stop on Beans’s journey builds excitement and keeps readers guessing. The graphic‑novel format, brought to life through Li Chen’s expressive artwork, makes this an excellent choice for children who enjoy visual storytelling or are building reading confidence.

At its heart, this is a story about friendship, bravery, and believing in yourself — all wrapped in humour and feline charm. Detective Beans and the Case of the Missing Hat would make a brilliant addition to any school or home bookshelf, and is sure to inspire a new generation of cat‑loving sleuths.

And finally, our first runner up for Hooked On Books is I.R.L. by Jenny Goebel, which is, quite frankly, the scariest book I’ve read for children!

Lucy is eager to leave her bullies behind and start over at a new school when she moves to Alaska with her parents. Her first days at school are all remote learning; how is she going to make friends when she can’t meet anyone in person? White Pine Secondary School is made up of just thirteen students who all seem really welcoming when they start chatting online. She grows excited about meeting her new friends I.R.L.!

But when she turns up at her school, she is met with a crumbling, abandoned building. There’s nothing there, apart from a tiny cemetery with thirteen small headstones poking out of the frozen ground. Headstones with some very familiar names on them…

If you loved I.R.L., try Shadowhall Academy: The Whispering Walls by Phil Hickes, which is atmospheric, gripping and bursting with suspense, it’s perfect for readers who enjoy being just a little bit scared.

From the moment Lilian Jones arrives at her new school, a looming, icy, labyrinthine building packed with unsettling legends, it’s clear that this is no ordinary first day.

At first, Lilian’s biggest worries are getting lost and making friends, but the creepy tapping in the walls quickly shifts her focus. Add in whispered tales of students who mysteriously vanished, rumours of ghosts, and strange figures that appear at night looking exactly like the pupils themselves, and you’ve got a wonderfully eerie mystery that grips from the very first chapter.

Lilian is a relatable, determined protagonist, and her growing friendship group brings warmth and heart to contrast the school’s shadowy corners. As the strange happenings escalate, she realises that Shadowhall Academy is hiding secrets far more dangerous than anyone dares to admit, and her friends may be in real trouble.

Happy reading!

I can’t believe this year’s competition is over and we have our winners! Huge congratulations to all of the shortlisted authors and illustrators. We love seeing such a diverse range of books for every age group to prove that there really is a book out there for everyone. If your favourite book won this year, try out my recommendations for other books you might enjoy too

The winner of What’s The Story is …

Don’t Trust Fish by Neil Sharpson, illustrated by Dan Santat

Have you ever noticed that fish spend all of their time under water? What are they plotting down there? And did you know that a group of fish is called a ‘school’? Exactly what are they learning in these ‘schools’? We must find answers. But one thing’s for sure. Whatever you do: Don’t. Trust. Fish.

If you loved Don’t Trust Fish, try I Want My Hat Back by Jon Klassen, which manages to be clever, funny and wonderfully understated all at once. It’s is one of those gems that children adore and adults can’t help but appreciate too.

Bear has lost his hat. He’s absolutely certain he had it a moment ago… but where has it gone? What follows is a brilliantly paced series of encounters as he politely asks the other animals if they’ve seen it. The repetitive question-and-answer structure invites young readers to join in, while Jon Klassen’s trademark deadpan humour keeps the laughs coming.

The illustrations are bold, simple and packed with emotion; tiny eyebrow raises and side‑glances do a lot of heavy lifting here, giving children plenty to spot and discuss. And then there’s that ending. Perfectly surprising, darkly funny, and guaranteed to spark a lively conversation about clues, consequences and what really happened. A modern classic, this is a fantastic choice for developing inference skills, exploring character expressions, and enjoying a shared chuckle. A must‑have for every home and classroom bookshelf.

The winner of Telling Tales is …

Mina Mahmood: School trip by Farhana Islam, illustrated by Simran Diamond Singh

Mina, Reema and Mobeen can’t wait to go on their school trip, an overnight stay at Shiremoor Oaks Adventure Centre…until somebody spooks them with stories about Bertie Blackteeth: who haunts the woods, who sharpens her toenails with twigs, who is waiting to skewer her next unfortunate victim all over with cheese-and-onion crisps! With Bertie Blackteeth lurking and the school bully seeming to have become the teacher’s pet – this trip will test their friendship, courage and love of potato chips to the limit.

If you loved Mina’s Misadventures, do try The Cheat Book Vol 2: Can Kamal Survive The Wild by RAMZEE, which is packed full humour, excitement, and black‑and‑white illustrations. Kamal is heading into the great outdoors with his classmates—and he’s made a bold promise: he’ll finally discover the legendary Beast of Criggily Wood. Armed with his two best friends, a sense of adventure, and the mysterious Cheat Book, he’s convinced nothing can stand in his way. But with rustling shadows, pesky poison ivy, and strange clues lurking between the trees, Kamal soon learns that not every challenge can be solved with a simple life‑hack.

Kamal is an instantly relatable character—curious, determined, and sometimes a little too confident in the power of his “helpful” book. The woodland setting provides the perfect backdrop for mishaps and mystery, and readers will enjoy piecing together the clues as Kamal and his friends bravely (and often hilariously) venture deeper into Criggily Wood. RAMZEE’s illustrations add an extra layer of fun, supporting the fast‑paced storytelling and keeping even reluctant readers turning the pages.

Beneath the humour sits a gentle message about friendship, problem‑solving, and what it really means to be brave. Whether your child is already a fan of the series or picking it up for the first time, this is an engaging, lively read that’s sure to spark plenty of discussion—and perhaps even a few outdoor adventures of their own.

The winner of Hooked On Books is…

Running My Own Race by Abena Eyeson

Kofi’s mum is determined he’s going to be ‘somebody’. But when Kofi is given a place at a prestigious private school because of his athletic ability, everything changes. Kofi dreams of being a professional athlete – but he soon finds following your heart isn’t an easy road.
Under pressure from his mum to make the most of his academic opportunity, his best friend who doesn’t want him to change, his community to make them proud, and a rival who will do anything to make sure Kofi doesn’t outshine him – Kofi isn’t sure where to turn. Can Kofi find a way to follow his own path?

If you loved Running My Own Race, try Coach by Jason Reynolds. This engaging and heartfelt story follows young Otie Brody, long before he became the inspirational Coach we meet in Ghost, Patina, Sunny, and Lu. Otie lives and breathes sprinting, idolising heroes like Carl Lewis and dreaming big, just like any determined young athlete. When his often‑absent dad brings home a pair of brand‑new Jordans, Otie feels unstoppable, until the trainers mysteriously vanish overnight, along with his father.

If you’ve spent any time with the Run series (and if you haven’t, what are you waiting for?), you know Coach. He’s the steady, firm, and deeply loving anchor for Ghost, Lu, Patina, and Sunny. But Jason Reynolds has finally pulled back the curtain on the man himself, and let me tell you, it’s as heartbreaking a read as it is soulshaking.

This isn’t just a prequel; it’s a masterclass in empathy. It’s short, punchy, and carries the rhythmic, soulful prose that only Jason can deliver, which led me to devour it in one sitting. Bullying and big dreams are Otie’s day to day, a life most children can relate to, until we learn his family secret.

Jason perfectly captures that specific moment when a child realizes their parent is a flawed, hurting human being. The betrayal here isn’t just about a pair of sneakers; it’s about the theft of security. Watching Otie process his father’s addiction and the “why” behind those long business trips is heavy, but Reynolds handles it with such grace. You see the seeds of the man Otie becomes; the man who makes sure his kids on the Defenders always have a place to land.

The other huge bonus to Coach is that it transported me straight back to my childhood, where I too dreamed of time machines. It still hurts, however, that my childhood is now classed as modern historical fiction.

Huge thanks to all of the hard work from Coventry School Library Service in organising and running the awards. And, a massive congratulations to our Hooked On Books Quiz Team who retained the book quiz trophy for a second year, only dropping one point throughout the quiz.

This week is the last eviction from this year’s competition before your winners are announced next week. Have a look at my recommendations for what to try if your favourite left the competition this week.

What’s The Story

This week, we say goodbye to the Kerfuffle Bird by Helen Doherty, illustrated by Gwen Millard, a joyful picture book celebrating self-expression and the importance of sharing our feelings.

In the perfectly peaceful town of Hushville, the Hushlings pride themselves on being quiet, calm and very polite. Everyone seems happy with the hush… except for Maeve, who is bursting with big feelings she would love to let out. When the wonderfully noisy Kerfuffle Bird swoops into town, Maeve finally finds a friend who enjoys whooping, squawking and dancing just as much as she does.

Of course, all that joyful noise causes quite a stir among the Hushlings. But as the community begins to listen and understand one another, they discover that there might be room for both quiet moments and joyful kerfuffles.

Bright, energetic illustrations perfectly match the playful storytelling, making this a warm and engaging picture book that opens the door to conversations about emotions, individuality and finding balance within a community.

If you loved this book, try Leaf by Sandra Dieckmann. This beautifully illustrated picture book introduces readers to Leaf, a young polar bear who finds himself washed far from his icy home and family. Alone in a strange forest, he quickly becomes the subject of fear and suspicion among the animals who live there. To them, the large white creature is unfamiliar and unsettling, and many wish he would simply disappear.

Told with the gentle rhythm of a fable, the story explores how misunderstandings grow when we are afraid of what we do not know. As the animals slowly learn to communicate and look beyond their fears, a powerful message about empathy, curiosity and kindness begins to unfold.

The artwork is truly captivating, filled with rich colours and intricate details that invite readers to linger on every page. Children will enjoy spotting small touches hidden within the illustrations.

Thoughtful, visually stunning and quietly moving, this is a picture book that encourages conversation and can be enjoyed by readers of all ages.

Telling Tales

Year 3 and 4 bid farewell to Tuck And Tina And The Lost Fortune by Jess Brallier, Illustrated by Jack Keely, a lively and engaging first adventure in a colourful new series for children beginning to move from picture books into chapter stories.

Tina spends her days at Boone Elementary, quietly listening to lessons and watching the children play together. More than anything, she wishes she had a real friend of her own. When the school announces that a new class pet is arriving, Tina dares to hope her wish might finally come true.

Enter Tuck: energetic, unpredictable and always one step away from chaos. He is certainly not the calm companion Tina imagined. But when Boone Elementary faces the threat of closure, the unlikely pair must work together on a daring mission to track down a rumoured hidden treasure somewhere in the school.

Packed with humour, friendship and a dash of mystery, this fast-paced story is perfect for younger readers ready for their first chapter book adventures.

If this was your favourite, try the Moonlight Mystery Agency: The Birthday Cake Thief by Vashti Hardy, illustrated by Agnes Saccani, a delightful start to a magical new mystery series for younger readers.

Hana has always wanted a pet, so when a cat appears at her bedroom window one night, it feels like a dream come true. But Ace is no ordinary feline. He is a detective cat with an important invitation. Hana is about to become the newest recruit at the Moonlight Mystery Agency.

Their first case is wonderfully unusual: helping Spark, a bionic unicorn, track down her missing birthday cake. What follows is a lively adventure filled with clues, surprises and plenty of magical moments.

The short chapters, playful humour and colourful illustrations make this an ideal choice for developing readers beginning to enjoy chapter books. With its mix of mystery, friendship and fantasy, this charming story is sure to spark imaginations and leave children eager for the next case.

Hooked On Books

And our final book to be evicted this year is Diary of a Future Billionaire by Pamela Butchart, illustrated by Wotto, the brilliantly funny start to a new middle-grade series packed with big plans, bold ideas and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments.

The story is told through the diary of a very confident ten-year-old who has one clear goal: to become the world’s richest child. Unlike people who say their success was a surprise, he insists this was all part of the plan. Becoming a billionaire was something he carefully organised… and according to him, it worked!

As readers follow his diary entries, they discover the wild schemes, determined thinking and chaotic adventures that make up his journey towards extreme wealth. Of course, things don’t always go quite as smoothly as he expects.

Fast-paced, energetic and full of humour, this voice-led story is perfect for children who enjoy diary-style books and larger-than-life narrators. A fun and highly entertaining read that will leave readers eager for the next instalment.

If this was your favourite book, try Grandpa Frank’s Great Big Bucket List by Jenny Pearson, illustrated by David O’Connell, a joyful, big-hearted adventure that will leave young readers laughing while quietly tugging at their heartstrings. When Frank unexpectedly inherits a fortune from a grandmother he never knew, the money comes with an unusual condition: he must spend time with a brand-new grandpa.

Determined to make the most of the situation, Frank creates an outrageous bucket list packed with unforgettable experiences, from hot-air balloon rides to monster-truck lessons and even parkour challenges. The result is a whirlwind of chaos, comedy and surprising moments of kindness.

Jenny balances laugh-out-loud escapades with a warm message about family, connection and what really makes us happy. Beneath the wild adventures lies a thoughtful reminder that the best treasures in life can’t be bought.

Fast-paced, funny and full of heart, this is a brilliant read for children who enjoy humour, adventure and stories that celebrate the importance of family.

Make sure you vote at Coventry Inspiration Book Awards – Coventry City Council for your favourite book to win!

Happy reading, and voting!

I can’t believe we’re already at the midway point of this year’s Coventry Inspiration Book Awards. Have a look at my recommendations for what to try next if your favourite left the competition this week.

What’s The Story

This week we say goodbye to Don’t Think Of Tigers by Alex Latimer, This book is magical. Whatever you think of, the narrator will draw it on the next page. There’s just one problem: they’re really bad at drawing tigers. hilariously bad. So please, don’t think of tigers! But of course, soon all you’ll be able to think of is tigers . . . so the narrator will draw them, more and more ridiculous as they go: a tiger in a mermaid outfit, one carrying a coffee and a briefcase, some just plain awful. But with practice, will they get better?

If you love this book, try Do Not Say These Words by Frances Tosdevin & Rhian Wright. This gloriously silly story sets readers an almost impossible challenge: read the whole book without giggling. Good luck with that.

In this playful tale, a very serious Professor has discovered a worrying problem. Certain words make children laugh, and all that giggling produces something called giggle-gas. Unfortunately, giggle-gas is apparently terrible for the planet. The solution? Ban all the funny words and replace them with extremely dull ones instead. Simple… or so the Professor thinks.

Young readers are warned not to say the dangerous words and definitely not to laugh as the story unfolds. Of course, the increasingly ridiculous situations make keeping a straight face nearly impossible.

Brought to life with lively illustrations by Rhian Wright, this book is packed with wordplay, comic timing and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments. Perfect for reading aloud or sharing at bedtime, it celebrates the joy of language and reminds us that sometimes a good giggle is exactly what we need.

Telling Tales

I’m really sorry Year 4, but this week, Beastie Bros by David O’Connell was eliminated. Dash is a little firefly. One of his wings is shorter than the other so he flies more slowly than everyone else, but that doesn’t stop him getting where he wants to go, when he’s happy, his bottom lights up! And he’s happiest when he’s eating custard and hanging out with his adoptive brother, Dribble the snail. Dribble is never in a hurry. He likes to invent things – and eat cabbage. He keeps all kinds of useful objects hidden inside his shell. They help to keep him out of trouble, which is never far away. Join our minibeast heroes on their first adventure as they foil a master criminal plot involving a crystal worm, ancient custard, a stolen Roboslug and some dastardly dung beetles…

If you loved this, there are more books in the series, as well as the fabulously funny Reggie Rabbit: The Great Carrot Heist by Swapna Reddy and Backa Moor. Full of charm, puns and pint-sized bravery, this delightful adventure introduces readers to Reggie Rabbit, a young bunny with very big detective dreams.

Reggie longs to follow in the pawprints of his hero, the famous Detective Fox, but his parents would much prefer he stayed home helping at the family vegetable stall. When a mysterious carrot-snatching crime wave sweeps through the canals of Bearburgh City, the family stall is suddenly at risk. With Detective Fox refusing to take the case, Reggie realises this might be his moment. Teaming up with the school’s newest arrival, a chatty parakeet called Pipsquark who has heard whispers of suspicious goings-on, Reggie sets out to uncover the truth.

With lively humour, animal antics and a satisfying whodunnit at its heart, this is a joyful early chapter book that will appeal to young readers who enjoy gentle mysteries and plenty of laughs along the way.

Hooked On Books

And finally, Year 5 & 6 lose Anzu And The Realm Of Darkness by Mai K. Nguyen. Anzu has just moved to a new town during Obon, a time for families to remember and celebrate their ancestors. Ever since her grandmother Obaachan died, though, Obon has lost its magic for Anzu. She doesn’t feel like celebrating. Escaping the festivities, Anzu chases after a stray dog. She slips and falls down a ridge – to find herself in the Shinto underworld known as Yomi, a place she’s heard about in Obaachan’s stories. The stray dog, she finds out, is actually the Gatekeeper of Yomi, and he warns her to return to the human realm before it’s too late. Only, getting home is not simple. Faced with the nefarious Queen Izanami and a realm of creatures, Anzu is in a race against the clock. Can she break a curse, free the spirits of other lost children and reach the gate home before sunrise? …Or will she be stuck in Yomi for ever?

If you loved this, try Juniper Mae: Knights Of Tykotech City by Sarah Soh. Packed with gadgets, bravery and a dash of woodland magic, Juniper Mae is a lively illustrated adventure that’s perfect for curious readers.

Juniper is a brilliant young inventor who spends her days creating wonderfully quirky gadgets in her dad’s repair shop, from jet packs to floating fish bowls. But when one invention goes spectacularly wrong, Juniper crash-lands in the mysterious forest outside Tykotech City and discovers a hidden world filled with ancient knights, big secrets and a tiny green companion called Albie.

As technology across the city begins to fail, Juniper realises she may be the only person who can save it. Inspired by the legendary Guardian Knights, she must find the courage to step forward and become a hero herself.

With energetic illustrations and a fast-paced story, this debut from Sarah Soh celebrates creativity, resilience and the power of using your talents to help others. A brilliant choice for readers who love adventure with heart.

If you don’t want your favourite to leave next week, make sure you vote at Coventry Inspiration Book Awards – Coventry City Council

Happy reading and voting!

Happy reading, and voting!

It’s the third week of evictions, and another group of amazing books have left the competition. Have a look at my recommendations for what to try next if your favourite left the competition this week.

What’s The Story

The third book to leave this category is These Are My Rocks by Bethan Woollvin. Join the narrator, as they proudly introduce the reader to their prized collection, featuring BIG things to small things…and spiky things to wobbly things! Each page is bursting with humour – and they are interactive too – with children encouraged to interact with the book, with invitations to point, make noises, clap their hands and think about what they could collect.

If you loved this, do try The River by Patricia Hegarty & Hanako Clulow , a beautifully calming picture book that gently invites children to follow a little fish on her journey downriver and into the unknown. With its lyrical text and flowing illustrations, this story is perfect for slowing down and enjoying together. Children will love spotting the magical swimming fish on every page, while adults will appreciate the rich language and peaceful rhythm of the story. This is a lovely book for sharing at bedtime or in the classroom, encouraging curiosity about nature and supporting discussion around journeys, change and confidence. A true book to treasure and return to again and again.

Telling Tales

The next book to leave our Year 3 and 4 category is a real shock – it’s Donut Squad Take Over The World by Neill Cameron. Ever wondered what donuts get up to when they’re not being eaten? No, because that would be silly! But it turns out, donuts have BIG PLANS FOR WORLD DOMINATION!!! Meet Sprinkles, the leader of the Squad; Jammyboi, who spreads stickiness EVERYWHERE; Dadnut and Lil’ Timmy, who explain obscure facts, and Spronky, who is bizarrely unconventional! But don’t mention the arch-nemeses of the donuts…the bagels, secretly plotting Donut Squad’s doom!

If you loved this, try Star Cat by James Turner, illustrated by Yasmin Sheikh, a laugh out loud graphic novel that is guaranteed to delight readers aged 7 and up. Bursting with colour, comic strips and gloriously silly humour, this book follows Captain Spaceington and the crew of the SS Star Cat on a series of wildly ridiculous space adventures. From mischievous space slugs to the wonderfully bonkers flativerse, there is something to spot and giggle at on every page. Perfect for encouraging reluctant readers, Space Cat combines accessible text with visual storytelling and plenty of jokes. A brilliant choice for children who enjoy humour, comics and fast paced fun. 

Hooked On Books

The third book to leave our category for Year 5 and up is Feast And Famine: The Last Great Heir by Carina Finn. Rue Famine knows that only Feasts benefit from Feast rule. As the heir of House Famine, she spends her days studying potion-making in an enormous, dusty library and learning how to use her magic to help others. Custom dictates that the heirs of Feast and Famine must duel on their thirteenth birthday. Only one family can rule the land of Fauret, and Merri and Rue have been raised as rivals. But as the contest draws near and dangers escalate, their true enemy may be a shared one…

If you loved this, try The Book Of Stolen Dreams by David Farr. This gripping adventure story introduces us to Rachel and Robert, two siblings who find themselves in serious trouble after helping their father steal a forbidden book. When events spiral out of control, they are forced to go on the run and uncover the truth behind The Book of Stolen Dreams in order to save him.

Full of mystery, excitement and memorable characters, this book is perfect for readers who enjoy fast-paced plots and high-stakes adventures. It also explores important themes such as family loyalty, bravery and making difficult choices. A fantastic read for children looking for a story they will not want to put down, and there are two more books in the series!

If you don’t want your favourite to leave next week, make sure you vote at Coventry Inspiration Book Awards – Coventry City Council

Happy reading, and voting!

It’s the second week of evictions, and once again, we say goodbye to some fantastic books from this year’s competition. Have a look at my recommendations for what to try next if your favourite left the competition this week.

What’s The Story

The second book evicted is Tiny McToot by Barry Falls. Tiny the giant lives in a shoe, and as the smallest giant in the land, he is always overlooked. But, when a HUGE and dastardly troll comes along, could it be Tiny’s diminutive size (along with his HUGE courage) that saves the day? A joyfully exuberant rhyming story about being seen, heard and accepted – however small you may be!

If you loved Tiny McToot, try Little Wolf by Peter Donnelly, a warm and reassuring picture book that celebrates confidence, kindness and being yourself. As the pack prepares for the Big Howling Ceremony, Little Wolf worries that his howl is not loud or impressive enough. With gentle encouragement and a tender message, the story shows children that bravery does not always mean being the biggest or noisiest. Peter’s soft illustrations and simple, rhythmic text make this an ideal read for younger children. Perfect for sharing at home or in the classroom, Little Wolf reminds us that every child’s voice matters, and that sometimes the quietest voices can be the most special.

Telling Tales

The second book to leave this category is Wild Magic: Legend of the Black Lion by Abiola Bello and Illustrated by Emma McCann.

Misha and Ziggy are no ordinary twins. They have a secret that no one else knows: Misha can speak to animals and Ziggy can shapeshift into them! The siblings couldn’t be happier to be joining their wildlife presenter father on a trip to Ethiopia, and they’re determined to help him bag the best footage of the legendary Black Lion. When the Black Lion goes missing, Misha and Ziggy are certain their powers can track it down. Can they find it before anyone else does and help keep the jungle safe from harm?

If this was your favourite, try Animagicals: Mia’s Tiger by Paula Harrison, an exciting new fantasy adventure, perfect for readers who enjoy magic, animals and friendship. Set at Wild Haven, a secret school hidden deep in a magical forest, the story follows children who can transform into animals while learning to control their powers. Mia is delighted to discover she is an animagical, but keeps accidentally turning into a mouse, which leads to plenty of humour and suspense. With fast-paced storytelling and a brave, relatable heroine, this book will quickly capture young imaginations. Ideal for confident readers, Animagicals is a fun and magical start to a new series that children will be eager to continue.

Hooked On Books

The second book to be voted out is The Line They Drew Through Us by Hiba Noor Khan, a powerful and thoughtful historical novel that introduces young readers to the events of Indian Partition with care and compassion.

Three best friends are born on the same day under miraculous circumstances. But by their twelfth birthday, Jahan, Ravi and Lakshmi’s lives are about to change forever. The British announce Indian independence and draw lines of Partition that tear apart the country, and the friends. One of them flees, one of them disappears, and the other is left wondering, could a miracle bring them back together?

If you loved The Line They Drew Through Us, try The Partition Project by Saadia Faruqi, a moving and accessible novel that helps children explore history through family stories. Mahnoor, an aspiring young journalist, is asked to film a documentary and unexpectedly finds inspiration in her grandmother’s memories of the Partition of India and Pakistan. As the two grow closer, Mahnoor learns how the past continues to shape the present. Written with warmth and sensitivity, the book introduces a complex historical event in a way that is engaging and age appropriate. Ideal for older primary readers, The Partition Project encourages empathy, curiosity and thoughtful conversations about history, identity and the power of storytelling.

If you don’t want your favourite to leave next week, make sure you vote at Coventry Inspiration Book Awards – Coventry City Council

Happy reading, and voting!

I can’t believe we’re already at the stage of this year’s Coventry Inspiration Book Awards where the evictions have begun, and this week we say goodbye to some fabulous books. Have a look at my recommendation for what to try next if your favourite left the competition this week.

What’s The Story

The first book evicted is Trouble At The Bug Hotel by Kathryn Simmonds, illustrated by Tor Freeman. The Bug Hotel has a fancy dining room, a rooftop terrace…even a pool if water is your thing. What a wonderful hotel! Trouble is, Branwell the solitary bee is not welcomed by the other guests – they’re convinced he will sting! But Branwell can’t sting, and even if he could, he wouldn’t want to. When a curious toddler starts poking and shaking the bug hotel, our stripy hero, Branwell, ends up saving the day, showing us all a thing or two about resolving tricky situations peacefully.

If you loved this, try Who ate all the bugs? by Matty Long, a brilliantly funny and informative picture book for our younger children. When Snail sets out to solve the mystery of disappearing bugs, young readers are taken on an entertaining journey through the food chain, guided by Glowworm’s wise (and slightly blunt) explanations. Packed with Matty Long’s trademark deadpan humour and bold, hilarious illustrations, this book introduces children to real-life facts about minibeasts and ecosystems in a way that’s accessible and engaging. Slightly disgusting, very clever and full of laugh-out-loud moments, it’s a great choice for curious young nature lovers.

Telling Tales

The first book to leave this category is The Lucky House Detective Agency by  Scarlett Li, Illustrated by Sian James. Felix and his best friend Isaac love mysteries – chasing clues, identifying suspects, catching criminals – they can’t wait to open their own detective agency. So when Felix’s parents’ Lucky House takeaway is cursed with a spate of bad luck, Felix is determined to find the culprit. The boys’ investigations lead them to a clue: an ancient coin with a square hole at its centre. Could this lead them to secret treasure? (Un) fortunately, ‘Nosy’ Nina Ding, Felix’s sworn enemy, may have the answers.

If you loved this, try Agent Asha: Mission shark bytes by Sophie Deen, illustrated by Anjan Sarkar, a fast-paced and funny spy adventure packed with techy twists. When Asha Joshi is recruited by the secret Children’s Spy Agency, she suddenly has a very good reason for not finishing her homework – she has to save the world before bedtime! Using her coding skills, Asha faces dodgy tech, dangerous sharks and a mysterious internet blackout. Bursting with action, humour and colourful illustrations, this book cleverly introduces children to coding and problem-solving while supporting key KS1 and KS2 computing concepts. A great choice for budding spies and future coders.

Hooked On Books

The first book to leave this category is the utterly brilliant The Boy In The Suit by James Fox, illustrated by Tika and Tata Bobokhidze, a poignant and heart-warming exploration of a young boy’s struggle to find his place in a world that seems determined to keep him on the outside. From a mismatched school uniform to a mother battling mental health issues, Solo’s story is a delicate balance of humour, sadness, and resilience. Ten-year-old Solo – embarrassingly, that isn’t short for anything – just wants to be normal. He wants a name that doesn’t stand out. He wishes he had a proper school uniform that fitted him. He dreams about a mum who doesn’t get the Big Bad Reds, like his mum Morag. But most of all he longs to stop crashing funerals for the free food. But when Solo and Morag crash the funeral of a celebrity and get caught, the press are there to witness their humiliation. The next day it’s splashed across the papers. Before Solo knows it, he becomes a viral sensation, and life may never be normal again.

If you loved this, try My Brilliant Plan To Fix Everything by Ben Davis, a warm, funny and heartfelt story about family, friendship and good intentions going slightly wrong. When twelve-year-old Alex takes over his dad’s postal round so his dad can finally write a novel, he’s sure it will bring his family back together. Instead, Alex faces angry dogs, local bullies and an increasingly suspicious boss. Along the way, he finds unexpected support from Willow, a girl with secrets of her own. Told with humour and compassion, this is a thoughtful read about growing up, resilience and what really matters in families.

If you don’t want your favourite to leave next week, make sure you vote at Coventry Inspiration Book Awards – Coventry City Council

Happy reading, and voting!