Reading For Pleasure

The Summer Reading Challenge is the UK’s biggest reading for pleasure programme for primary school children in libraries, reaching close to 700,000 children last year. This year, the theme is “Story Garden”, and I have chosen some of my favourite books from The Reading Agency’s Collection.

For our youngest children, I have picked Farah Loves Mangos by Sarthak Sinha, a heartwarming and beautifully illustrated picture book.

This vibrant story, written by Sarthak Sinha, follows a young girl named Farah who adores mangos, so much so, she dreams of living inside one! Each summer, she visits her beloved Grandpa and together they pick juicy, golden mangos from his garden tree.

But this year is different. The mango tree is bare, and Farah is determined to fix it. With childlike optimism and creativity, she tries everything she can to make the tree bloom again. What follows is a gentle and thoughtful tale about patience, growth, and discovering joy in the little things beyond just the end result.

This book is a lovely way to introduce young readers to the ideas of nature’s cycles and the deeper meaning of relationships with loved ones. Farah’s bond with her Grandpa is particularly touching, and parents may find it sparks conversations about family traditions and the importance of spending time together.

The illustrations are colourful, rich in detail, and perfectly capture the warmth of summer days and the comfort of home. Young readers will enjoy spotting mango-themed surprises throughout the pages.

I love that Farah Loves Mangos is not just a celebration of a favourite fruit, it’s a gentle reminder that some of life’s sweetest moments come from what we learn along the way, not just what we get at the end.

Next up, I’ve chosen Hilda And Twig Hide From The Rain by Luke Pearson, perfect for young readers who enjoy a mix of adventure, magic, and friendship.

Fans of the Netflix Hilda series or the original graphic novels will be delighted to see blue-haired Hilda and her loyal deer-fox Twig in another thrilling tale.

The story begins with the pair heading out for a forest exploration, undeterred by a little rain. But when a huge storm rolls in, things take a dramatic turn. They find shelter in a strange mound in the ground. But, it’s not just any mound… Something mysterious is going on, and Twig soon realises that Hilda is in serious danger.

I love that this story focuses on Twig. Usually the quieter sidekick, Twig is suddenly pushed into the spotlight and has to face his fears to protect his best friend. It’s a lovely message for young readers: that bravery can come in many forms, even from those who don’t think of themselves as heroes.

The artwork is vibrant and full of character, bringing the magical world of Trolberg and its surrounding forests to life. The comic format makes it easy to follow, especially for children who are growing in confidence with their reading.

With a perfect balance of gentle humour, suspense, and warmth, Hilda and Twig Hide from the Rain is a brilliant rainy-day read that shows the power of courage, friendship, and a little bit of wild imagination. Highly recommended for children who love quirky stories with heart!

And finally, for our older readers, I’ve selected The Last Dragon by Polly Ho-Yen, a magical and heartfelt adventure.

This moving story follows Yara, a young girl navigating some very grown-up problems. Her sister is in hospital, her home life is full of worry, and things at school aren’t much better. Her new teacher thinks she’s nothing but trouble. But Yara’s world changes completely when, under the lights of a Milton Keynes shopping centre, she encounters something unbelievable: the very last dragon on Earth.

In a moment of quiet magic, the dragon leaves Yara its final gift, a single egg. From this point on, Yara is faced with a huge responsibility. The egg holds a power she doesn’t fully understand, and there are people out there who will stop at nothing to take it from her. Yara must summon courage she didn’t know she had, trusting in herself and learning to stand up for what’s right.

This is more than just a fantasy story. It’s a powerful tale about bravery, believing in yourself when others don’t, and caring for the natural world. The blend of real-life challenges with a touch of dragon magic makes it a brilliantly accessible and relatable read for children, and absolutely perfect for readers who enjoy stories with heart, imagination, and a message of hope.

You can take part online, or by signing up at participating libraries, and check out all of the other books in the collection here.

Happy reading!

For our last staff choice theme this year, Mr Ray has chosen holidays by the sea, which has been exceptionally tricky to narrow down to just three books.

For our youngest children, I have chosen Searching For Treasure by Johanna Bell, illustrated by Emma Long, which captures the magic of childhood curiosity and the beauty of Australia’s coastline.

The story invites readers on a beachside adventure, where each step along the high tide line brings a new discovery. With gentle, rhyming text and a sense of wonder woven throughout, this book encourages children to slow down, observe, and delight in the natural treasures that the sea washes ashore. From sea urchins to shark’s eggs, and ghost crabs to barnacles, the book introduces a range of fascinating sea creatures and objects, many of which will be unfamiliar to younger children, sparking curiosity and conversation.

Emma Long’s illustrations are warm, textured, and filled with subtle details that reflect the rich biodiversity of Australia’s coastal environments. The earthy tones and expressive characters perfectly match the rhythmic pace of Johanna Bell’s writing, making this a calming yet engaging read-aloud.

Beyond its poetic charm, Searching for Treasure gently models the joy of outdoor exploration and mindful observation. It’s an ideal book to read before or after a family beach walk, inspiring children to notice the small things and ask questions about the natural world.

A celebration of imagination, discovery, and the simple joys found by the sea, Searching For Treasure is a true treasure in itself!

For newly confident readers starting out with chapter books I’ve picked The Whale Watchers by Dougie Poynter, a wonderfully engaging illustrated chapter book that combines an exciting summer holiday adventure with an important environmental message.

The story follows Finn, who is less than thrilled when his summer plans are hijacked by a trip to rainy Scotland with his younger brother Jesse and their mum, a passionate marine biologist. Finn would rather be anywhere else than trailing around after whales in soggy waterproofs. But when they meet a local girl and her loyal dog, things take a surprising turn. As the children explore Scotland’s rugged coastline, they discover not only the majestic whales that call its waters home, but also the devastating effects of ocean pollution.

I love how this book gently introduces readers to big ideas like climate change and plastic pollution, without ever feeling preachy. Through Finn’s eyes, children are invited to ask questions and learn how even small actions, like cutting down on single-use plastics, can make a huge difference. Amberin’s illustrations bring warmth and personality to the story, helping younger readers visualise the Scottish landscape and the whales themselves.

Inspiring, thought-provoking and hopeful, The Whale Watchers is a fantastic read for Key Stage 2 children, perfect for enjoying together over the holidays, or for sparking a new interest in the natural world.

And finally, for our older readers, I’ve chosen Noah’s Gold by Frank Cottrell-Boyce, illustrated by Steven Lenton, a funny, fast-paced tale of mishap, mystery and friendship.

The story follows 11-year-old Noah, the youngest in his family and full of big ideas. When he secretly tags along on his older sister’s school geography trip, things quickly spiral into chaos. A wrong turn lands six children stranded on a deserted island, with no adults, no working phones, and thanks to Noah, no internet either. As they struggle to survive and make sense of their situation, Noah stumbles upon an old treasure map, turning their misadventure into a daring hunt for gold.

The book blends laugh-out-loud moments with heartfelt themes of teamwork, resourcefulness, and the pressures of the digital age. It cleverly explores how children can surprise us with their resilience and creativity – especially when grown-ups aren’t around. And, I love that it’s written in letters to home, with surprising

Frank’s trademark wit shines throughout, and there’s a warmth to the storytelling that makes it hugely appealing. The characters are lively and relatable, each contributing something unique to the group. Steven Lenton’s black-and-white illustrations bring extra energy to the pages and help draw young readers further into the action.

With echoes of classic adventure tales but a very modern twist, Noah’s Gold is perfect for confident readers who enjoy humour, unexpected twists, and stories that celebrate imagination and courage.

Happy reading!

This half-term, all of the themes have come from different staff members. This week, the books all link to Mr Beech’s childhood interests – monsters, myths, and Marvel…

First, The World Of The Unknown: Monsters is from one of my favourite childhood non-fiction series, which had recently been updated and rereleased for a new generation of children curious about the unexplained.

If you are fascinated by mythical creatures and mysterious beasts, World of the Unknown: Monsters is a thrilling read that’s bound to capture your imagination. Originally published in 1977, this classic Usborne title explores the legends of monsters from around the globe — from dragons and sea serpents to the ever-enigmatic Loch Ness monster.

Presented in an engaging and accessible way for young readers, the book is packed with intriguing tales and spine-tingling illustrations. It’s part of the much-loved World of the Unknown series, which has become something of a nostalgic favourite for adults too. This new edition includes a foreword by comedian and author Robin Ince, adding a modern touch while keeping the original intrigue intact.

Perfect for curious minds who enjoy a good mystery, this book is sure to spark plenty of questions and imaginative conversations!

Next, I have chosen Storyland by Amy Jeffs, the children’s edition, which is a spellbinding adventure into the lost mythology of how Britain began.

If you’re looking for a book that brings history, myth and magic to life, this beautifully illustrated retelling of Britain’s ancient myths and legends is a treasure trove of giants, dragons, heroes, and mysterious landscapes, all waiting to be explored.

Many children will already be familiar with figures like Thor or Medusa, but Storyland introduces a whole new world of wonder, rooted in the myths of the British Isles. From Trojan warriors landing on our shores, to dragons slumbering beneath hills, and kings whispering to spirits of the dead, the book offers a thrilling journey through stories that have shaped our land for centuries.

Travelling from the misty Orkney Isles to the cliffs of Cornwall, readers will meet young Merlin helping to build Stonehenge, Syrian sisters seeking safety, and heroes sailing Britain’s rivers in search of destiny. Each tale is brought vividly to life with rich, atmospheric illustrations and storytelling that feels both ancient and fresh.

This children’s edition of Jeffs’ bestselling book has been carefully adapted to suit young readers, making it an excellent choice for curious minds aged 8 and up. The language is accessible while still capturing the poetic feel of myth, and the stories spark the imagination as well as a sense of connection to Britain’s landscape and history.

Storyland is perfect whether shared aloud or enjoyed independently, and offers a wonderful way to introduce readers of any age to folklore, geography and the magic of storytelling. A truly spellbinding read, it will leave you dreaming of giants and legends long after the last page is turned.

And finally, An Atlas Of Marvel – the complete guide to the Marvel Universe!

This vibrant, fully illustrated book takes readers on a journey through the entire Marvel universe, starting in the heart of New York City and expanding outwards to cover Earth, the galaxy, and even distant parts of the cosmos.

With detailed maps and illustrations straight from the comics, children can explore famous locations such as the Avengers Mansion and the Xavier Institute. These aren’t just dots on a map; they’re brought to life with in-situ artwork and exciting zoom-ins that showcase key comic scenes. It’s like opening a window into the world of superheroes.

The book also shines a spotlight on some of Marvel’s most beloved characters. There’s a fun look at all of Spider-Man’s different suits, an overview of the many X-Men, a timeline of Black Widow’s history, and the various forms the Hulk has taken over the years. It’s both informative and visually engaging, making it ideal for curious readers.

Whether you are just beginning your Marvel adventure or already know every superhero’s backstory, this book offers a fresh and exciting way to dive deeper. Full of colour, action, and fascinating details, An Atlas of Marvel is sure to spark imaginations and might even inspire a bit of map-making at home!

A must-have for any Marvel enthusiast’s bookshelf.

Happy reading!

I am so excited for our official opening of the Cannon Park Spinney this afternoon, which will be a wonderful learning environment for us all, and we cannot thank Mr. Higgs enough for all of his backbreaking work bringing the vision to life. Every time I have visited it since work began, it has reminded me of the power of trees to calm and steady my soul while igniting my imagination. And so, this week’s theme is wild woods…

My first choice this week is Wild by Katya Balen, a celebration of wildness, both in the natural world and within ourselves.

At the heart of the story is a little girl who finds joy and freedom in the great outdoors. Her world is filled with trees, stars, and the earthy magic of the woods. She runs, climbs, and plays, revelling in the sense of space and the untamed beauty all around her. In the wilderness, she feels completely at home. It’s where she finds peace and imagination, seeing “secrets in the stars and stories in the earth”.

But life changes when the girl moves to the city. Suddenly, she is surrounded by towering buildings, grey concrete, and unfamiliar sounds. The wild places she loved are gone, and with them, a part of herself seems to disappear. She feels lost and alone, disconnected from everything that once made her feel alive. The city feels closed in, quiet in the wrong way – a stark contrast to the lively, natural world she left behind.

Wild is not, however, a story of sadness. It is a journey of rediscovery. Slowly, the girl begins to notice moments of wildness even in the city – in the shapes of the clouds, in patches of grass pushing through the pavement, in a sudden gust of wind. With the help of her imagination and an open heart, she realises that wildness isn’t only found in forests and fields. It can live in memories, in small everyday details, and most importantly, inside herself.

Gill Smith’s illustrations are a perfect complement to the text. Rich with texture and movement, they shift from the lush greens and warm tones of the countryside to the muted greys and blues of the city, before blending the two in a hopeful, heartwarming finale. Her use of colour and contrast helps children visually experience the emotional journey of the story.

Wild is a gentle but empowering reminder that nature, and our own inner wildness, can be found in the most unexpected places. It encourages children to look closely at the world around them and to find beauty and wonder wherever they are, and invites meaningful conversations about belonging, nature, and the power of imagination.

Next, I’ve chosen a fabulous new book by the amazing Andy Shepherd, The Wood Where Magic Grows. Publishing in July (we’re very lucky to have got an early read) it’s a charming, whimsical adventure that celebrates the wonders of the natural world and the power of imagination.

Iggy has recently moved into a new house with his family. At the end of the garden lies Wildtop Wood, a mysterious, overgrown forest that instantly draws him in. Together with his older brother Cal, Iggy begins to explore this tangled wilderness and soon discovers there is far more to it than meets the eye. Faces seem to peer out from the bark of trees, animals behave in curious ways, and whispers hint at a secret magic that is slowly fading.

What makes this book so special is its blend of gentle humour, enchanting atmosphere and emotional depth. Iggy is a wonderfully relatable character; curious, kind, and just a little bit unsure of himself. The bond between him and Cal is beautifully portrayed, showing both the joys and tensions of sibling relationships. As they uncover the secrets of Wildtop Wood, the boys also grow in confidence and understanding, not just of the magical world around them, but of themselves.

Andy Shepherd’s writing is warm and inviting, with lyrical descriptions that bring the forest vividly to life. Readers will delight in the idea that trees might be watching us, or even waiting for someone to notice them….

There’s a strong environmental theme threaded throughout the story, gently encouraging young readers to connect with nature and consider the importance of caring for our green spaces. A perfect pick for budding nature lovers, young explorers, and anyone who believes there might just be a little magic hidden in the trees.

And finally, for our older readers, I’ve picked Bloom by Nicola Skinner, a beautifully written novel bursting with imagination, humour, and heart.

Meet Sorrel Fallowfield, a model pupil who prides herself on her rule-following skills. In fact, she’s so well-behaved that her teachers turn to her for help when they forget the countless rules imposed by her rather joyless school. But Sorrel’s perfectly ordered world is turned upside down when she unearths a mysterious packet of “Surprising Seeds” in her garden. From that moment on, her life begins to sprout, quite literally, into something entirely unexpected.

As Sorrel starts planting the seeds in the most unlikely places, strange things begin to happen. She hears whispering voices, sees unusual sights, and eventually, rather spectacularly, finds flowers growing from her own head. Unsurprisingly, this makes it difficult to win the school’s “Most Obedient Child” competition. But what starts as a chaotic nuisance soon blossoms into something far more meaningful: a rebellion against dull conformity and a celebration of individuality, creativity, and nature.

Nicola Skinner’s storytelling is richly original and wickedly witty. She weaves a story that will captivate young readers, while offering plenty of laughs and some important themes to ponder. At its core, Bloom is a joyful reminder that sometimes the rules are worth breaking, especially when they stifle the natural curiosity and imagination of children.

With its wonderfully eccentric cast of characters and vivid, botanical flair, the book offers a wild ride that’s as meaningful as it is entertaining. It’s a clever, heartfelt, and uproariously funny story that will stay with young readers long after the final petal has fallen.

For lots more reading fun, check out the Summer Newsletter from Kenilworth Books for author events and book signings.

Happy reading!