This Month's Featured Books
Hello, Monster!
3+ readers 5+ readersWhat a very special picture book this is, strikingly illustrated by the super-talented Maisie Paradise Shearring and with a story that is utterly child-centred while still giving parents lots to think about. It opens in a playground, a familiar scene, where a mother tells her child to go and play with the little boy in the sandpit. Children neither want nor need to be told how to play, or who to play with, as her son makes clear in no uncertain terms. After all, the boy in the sandpit may be a monster in disguise. A fabulous imaginary adventure follows, which takes us underground into a monster's lair, where hordes of other children are held prisoner. It's a brilliant depiction of the power of a child's imagination, and an ingenious and very funny story. As far as the concept and illustration go, this is the best monster story since Not Now Bernard.
Black Beauty
Baby and Toddler 3+ readers 5+ readersRuth Brown has taken Anna Sewell’s classic Black Beauty, one of the best-loved books of all time and turned it into a handsome picture book. Her painterly style is just right for Beauty’s story and her rich, full-spread illustrations perfectly capture the major incidents in the horse’s life, from the peace and quiet of his carefree days as a foal through the drama of his escape from the stable fire, and the misery of his later years pulling carts through London’s busy streets. The story still has important lessons for readers about the treatment of animals, and Ruth Brown is faithful to that element of Sewell’s book too. This will be enjoyed equally by those new to the original and those who already love Black Beauty’s story.
Animalphabet
3+ readers 5+ readersThis absolutely stunning book turns the alphabet into a wild exploration of the animal world as readers are presented with 26 different creatures across colourful pages, all featuring pop ups or peep through cut outs to make this unforgettable. Questions to readers, as well as its ingenious layout, make it a superb interactive reading experience – ‘Who is prettier than an ant?’ asks the text: ‘A butterfly’ is the answer. ‘Who has more legs than a butterfly?’ a caterpillar, and so on. Some of the questions are delightfully quirky: ‘Who is more wobbly than an iguana?’ (Can you guess?), but each one, combined with the striking artwork will draw the reader into the wonderful world of the Animalphabet.
Last Stop on the Reindeer Express
3+ readers 5+ readersThere’s a real feel of Christmas magic to this delightful picture book. Like many children, Mia’s parents live apart and as Christmas approaches she’s really missing her daddy. Then she spots a mysterious post-box – turning the knob on the front opens the door to a wonderful world, where she can take the reindeer express and fly all the way to see her daddy. Many of the pages feature little doors and delicate cut-outs allowing readers to peep into the next page, and the illustrations – predominantly pink, red and green - conjure up a sense of cinnamon and gingerbread. Mia is home again for Christmas, warm in the knowledge that love reaches everyone, no matter how far away they are.
Santa Claus vs The Easter Bunny
3+ readers 5+ readersChristmas without presents or Easter without eggs? - unthinkable! Whilst Santa has his army of elves to help him, the poor eggs-hausted Easter Bunny has to do all the work himself. He makes the eggs, delivers the eggs and doesn't even get a thank you. So the fed up Easter Bunny plans a cunning chocolate vendetta to cause havoc in Santa's factory and spoil all the presents....but fortunately Father Christmas is partial to a little chocolate. What's Christmas without chocolate after all?
The Christmas Extravaganza Hotel
3+ readers 5+ readersThis funny, heart-warming picture book will put everyone in the right mood for Christmas. Bear’s plans for a nice, simple festive season are interrupted by the arrival of Frog. Frog thinks he’s come to the Christmas Extravaganza Hotel and is ready to enjoy all the attractions its brochure promises, from supersonic sleigh rides and singing Christmas trees to an all-you-can-eat North Pole breakfast. The trouble is, he’s misread the map and is as far from the hotel as it’s possible to get. When kind, generous Bear offers to provide a special Christmas break instead, it results in comfort and joy all round. This fresh, original story delivers the true Christmas message about love and sharing and is totally charming.
We Build Our Homes
5+ readers 7+ readersAnother fascinating, beautifully illustrated information book from Words & Pictures, We Build Our Homes shows young readers how some of the amazing architects of the animal world build places to raise their babies, or protect themselves. Amongst the 26 different creatures included are Tailorbirds, the ‘needle-beaked nesters’ who sew leaves together with spiderweb; Satin Bowerbirds, the ‘shiny-feathered, choose-me-now birds’, who decorate their homes with blue items to attract a mate; as well as Weaver Ants, Gopher Tortoises, Prairie Dogs and Chimpanzees. The text is lyrical and sometimes playful, and a joy to read. The book also includes a useful map of the world, and a Builders’ Fact File.
Giraffe Problems
3+ readers 5+ readersWitty, a bit silly, with irresistible characters, fabulous illustrations and a serious point to make, Giraffe Problems is an outstanding picture book, one that will easily stand repeat readings. Edward the giraffe stresses about his neck, a lot. He compares it unfavourably to all the other necks around and does his best to disguise it (most memorably with a mountain of scarves and bow ties). Only when he meets Cyrus, a creature also frustrated by the size of his neck, does he come to terms with it, making a special friend in the process. Lane Smith’s textured, brushy artwork is a perfect match for Jory John’s sharp and very funny text, and this is a picture book to entertain and amuse readers of all ages.
Milly-Molly-Mandy & Co
5+ readers 7+ readersPerfect for reading aloud, these seven stories will bring back happy memories for parents and grandparents and will introduce younger readers to an enduringly popular heroine and her friends little-friend-Susan and Billy Blunt. Gloriously illustrated with Joyce Lankester Brisley's original line drawings, Milly-Molly-Mandy & Co is a truly special gift to treasure.
Mince Spies
3+ readers 5+ readersA Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month November 2018 | Christmas is coming and there is war in the shops! In every supermarket in the town all the Christmas treats are being smashed up as soon as they get into the shops. Beautifully decorated cakes and biscuits have been sent flying and even Christmas puddings have been heaved off the shelves. Who’s the spoilsport who is ruining Christmas? The trusty Mince Spies are sent in to watch the shelves and they soon discover the surprising culprits! It takes the intervention of Santa Claus himself to make everyone feel better and for Christmas to become fun again! A thoroughly ridiculous and hugely enjoyable Christmas adventure.
Princess Snowbelle and the Snow Games
3+ readers 5+ readersAn uplifting and charming tale of teamwork and friendship in a winter wonderland.
Hampstead the Hamster
5+ readers 7+ readersA Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month November 2018 | Everyone who has ever had a pet will love this funny and charming story about a little boy and the hamster he gets for Christmas. Leo needs cheering up and, with Christmas coming, he takes the opportunity to ask for the one thing that he thinks will make him happy: a pet hamster. Luckily, Dad has Father Christmas’s number on his phone so Leo can order it direct – and get some help from spell-check! But when the hamster comes Leo can see that his new pet is not altogether happy. Hampstead the Hamster needs a present too!
The Antlered Ship
5+ readers 7+ readersOctober 2018 Book of the Month | A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month November 2018 | Rich in an atmospheric seascape and with a quest at its heart, The Antlered Ship is an engaging and adventurous story that will encourage all children to keep on asking questions about the world they live in. When the beautiful ship with the huge antlers on its prow comes into port Marco the Fox is busy contemplating the mysteries of the world. Marco asks himself questions such as Why do some songs make you happy and others make you sad? Why don’t trees ever talk? and How deep does the sun go when it sinks into the sea? None of his fox friends have any answers. So, when he sees the ship he decides to join the curious crew of deer and pigeons in the hope that a sea voyage to far off lands will help him find the answers. After an eventful journey, Marco discovers that questions often have several answers and that sharing and travelling and living with others can be one way of finding answers.
One Snowy Night
5+ readers 7+ readersThere are all sorts of different animals in this collection of new stories by favourite children's authors and lots of different settings for their adventures; young readers will love them all. Linda Chapman's opening story features snow leopards in Mongolia, while Candy Gourlay's is all about pandas in China. Michael Broad describes a special Christmas truce between moose and wolves, while closer to home, Leila Rasheed sprinkles a bit of Christmas magic over the story of a kitten finding a new home. Whether funny, surprising, exciting or thought-provoking, each story is perfectly told. Just the thing to go under the tree, or to share at bedtime as the nights draw in.
Who Are You Calling Weird?
5+ readers 7+ readersReaders meet some very strange creatures in this strikingly illustrated information book. There’s a Hairy Frog, which shares a defence tactic with Wolverine; the Pacific Barreleye, which with its see-through head may be the spookiest of the deep-sea ‘spookfish’; and the Pangolin, protected by armour-like scales. Their physical appearances are vividly described in Marilyn Singer’s text which explains too how their peculiar features or behaviour keep these animals safe. Full page colour illustrations by Paul Daviz present the creatures in all their weird and wonderful glory. Children will be amazed at how practical and fantastic the natural world can be, and inspired to protect the animals featured, many of whom are threatened by the creature described on page 46, the human.
The Skies Above My Eyes
5+ readers 7+ readersThis is a perfect book for anyone who likes gazing up into the skies above our head and wondering … A foldout, concertina poster format allows readers to soar billions of kilometres above earth and explore our solar system; floating 380,000 kilometres up is the moon, a bit lower are astronauts and cosmonauts working hard on the International Space Station. Beneath the Karman Line, the imaginary line that marks the start of space, the skies are just as busy with man-made machines and birds flying on their journeys. It’s endlessly fascinating, Yuval Zommer’s bold, bright illustrations are full of action, storks and spaceships, meteoroids and window cleaners equally beautifully represented while Charlotte Guillain’s enthusiasm for her subjects is infectious. Eye-opening, mind-expanding!
Milly-Molly-Mandy and Billy Blunt
5+ readers 7+ readersPerfect for reading aloud, these nine stories will bring back happy memories for parents and grandparents and will introduce younger readers to an enduringly popular heroine and her friends little-friend-Susan and Billy Blunt.
Dog Diaries: Happy Howlidays!
5+ readers 7+ readersIrrepressible young dog Junior is back with a dog’s-eye view of Christmas, or as he knows it Crisp-Mouth.This will be his first Crisp-Mouth, but he’s heard all about it from one of the old dogs at the dog’s home, and now settled with the Khatchadorians is very excited at the prospect of filling his mouth with canine crispy crackers! His enthusiasm knows no bounds, and it proves a real struggle to be good, especially as Junior consistently gets things WRONG… Junior’s breathless narrative style and Richard Wilson’s illustrations make this super-readable, and newly confident readers will love this funny story and its bouncy, endlessly optimistic narrator.
There's a Dinosaur on the 13th Floor
3+ readers 5+ readersThe tension mounts in this amusing and engaging picture book as hotel guest Mr Snore ascends floor by floor to find a comfortable room in which to sleep. Multi-occupancy seems to be the norm, and each room he’s offered already has a sleeping resident – a mouse, a pig, spiders … At last he falls asleep in a room on the 13th floor and only the readers see whose room he’s sharing! The illustrations are full of details and little extras that remind us just how busy and unusual this hotel is. Great fun!
Christmas Comes to Moominvalley
5+ readers 7+ readersAdapted from one of Tove Jansson's classic Moomintroll stories, this funny tale of misunderstanding is perfect Christmas reading. The Moomintrolls are all tucked up in bed, sleeping their long winter sleep when the Hemulen falls into their attic and tells them they need to get ready for Christmas. With no experience of Christmas, the Moomintrolls are a bit rattled, but manage to prepare everything in time – tree, presents, a feast. They share it with the little creatures of Moominvalley, who appreciate it all very much indeed. Funny, cosy and reassuring, this will put everyone in the mood for Christmas.
The First Christmas Jumper and the Sheep Who Changed Everything
5+ readers 7+ readersIrish TV presenter Ryan Tubridy and award-winning illustrator Chris Judge team up on this jolly and utterly charming story which claims to document the creation of the first Christmas jumper. Central character is little ewe Hillary who stands out amongst the other sheep because of her multi-coloured coat. Like that other patchwork hero Elmer, Hillary is friendly, kind and very popular, so everyone is thrilled when she is chosen to provide the wool for a jumper for Father Christmas and flown to the North Pole in his sleigh. Reading this is like putting on a festive sweater, and will leave you warm, tickled and all set for a happy Christmas.
How Winston Delivered Christmas
5+ readers 7+ readersLittle mouse Winston stars in a perfect Christmas adventure. Even for a mouse, he’s small but Winston’s got a big heart and when he finds a lost letter for Father Christmas he’s determined to see it delivered. His expedition is full of challenges, but along the way he’s helped by some equally warm-hearted and generous animals, including a beautiful white cat and a rat who ‘works’ at the famous Fortesque’s department store. Winston’s good deed is rewarded and the little mouse finds a warm bed and a new family for Christmas. The book is divided into 24 ½ chapters – one a day for 1st – 24th December plus a treat for Christmas morning! Interspersed are festive craft activities too and there can’t be a better book to set readers up for Christmas. Alex T Smith’s illustrations are gorgeous – big, busy and dramatic scenes but always with our little hero centre stage.
Fantastically Great Women Who Made History Gift Edition
5+ readers 7+ readers 9+ readersIt’s impossible not to be inspired by this picture book and the great women featured in it: their stories are told across bright spreads, which are enticing to look at, and packed with information all presented in a way that will make readers excited about the remarkable achievements described. It’s a varied line up of subjects, including a scientist, a writer, an athlete, an explorer and fashion designer alongside civil rights campaigner and even secret agent! Each page explains what these pioneering women did, and shows that everyone has the potential to change the world – just follow your heart and don’t listen when people say you can’t do something!
When the Whales Walked
5+ readers 7+ readers 9+ readersWhen the Whales Walked tackles a big, complex subject – the evolution of life on Earth – and succeeds in explaining it clearly, vividly and in way that will catch the imagination of young readers. It examines thirteen case studies, each describing the evolution of a different group of animals, from the earliest fish right up to modern Homo Sapiens. It explains the history of each group with the help of illustrations and diagrams, challenging children to spot the patterns in the ways that different animals have evolved. There’s a timeline of life on Earth, diagrams to explain the evolutionary tree and a cladogram, all there to help make the subject crystal clear. A book that thoroughly respects the intelligence and inquisitiveness of its readers and rewards their attention.
The Snow Cat
5+ readers 7+ readersYoung readers will very much enjoy Holly Webb’s typically touching new story, in which a mischievous cat works magic across the generations. Bel is staying with her grandma in her new home, an old house converted into flats for the elderly. Sneaking out early to enjoy an unexpected snowfall, she befriends a cheeky white cat but is surprised when she meets his owner, a young girl the same age as herself, but very different. In fact Bel has travelled back in time and because of her magical meeting with Snow and Charlotte, a young girl’s life is saved. Filled with warmth and love and with a neat balance between jeopardy and security, this is rounded off in the most satisfying way possible. A snowy treat!
Last Month's Featured Books
The Wolf, the Duck and the Mouse
3+ readers 5+ readersAward-winning duo, Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen are beloved for their trade mark dark humour in which nasty things happen and some unexpected results follow. Here, the Mouse is swallowed by the Wolf. But being swallowed by the Wolf turns out not to be such a bad thing after all. The Mouse finds the Duck is already comfortably at home in the Wolf’s stomach and soon the pair are happy improving their dark but cosy home – with the unwitting help of the Wolf. After all, as the Duck says, “I live well. I may have been swallowed, but I have no intention of being eaten.” As ever, Barnett and Klassen amusingly provoke readers to question apparent truths.
My RSPB Nature Craft Box Make and Play
5+ readers 7+ readersThis craft box is full of exciting arty ideas, all with a nature theme and it makes a great gift idea for children. Housed in a sturdy box there are 20 project ideas, activity cards, bunting and more.
Winnie and Wilbur: Tricks and Treats
5+ readers 7+ readersThere’s only one thing better than a Winnie and Wilbur story and that’s three Winnie and Wilbur stories. That’s what you get in this book which brings together three typically lively and comical adventures. It’s easy to see why these stories are so successful and so popular with children: Winnie and Wilbur’s adventures are always surprising, turning things merrily upside down before order is restored. Korky Paul’s illustrations are absolutely delightful, each page full of life and colour and packed with little extras for children to spot. And at the heart of everything is the special relationship between Winnie and Wilbur, solid, stable and reassuring, no matter how often they argue. Always a treat!
Stubby: A True Story of Friendship
5+ readersA Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month October 2018 | | Based on the true American story from World War One the atmospheric illustrations and simple text of Stubby gives a moving insight into the horrors of the war as seen through the story of the exceptional contribution of a stray dog. When Stubby, a little dog with no home of his own, wanders into an army training camp he quickly becomes a much loved mascot for the young soldiers. Taken overseas to the battlefields, he shows incredible bravery and loyalty, including barking a warning to the soldiers when he can smell the deadly poisonous gas and alerting his soldiers to the presence of enemies. When peace is declared, Stubby is given his very own special coat with medals on it as a reward for his courage. On his return to the US with his soldiers friends Stubby is even taken to the White House to meet the President.
I Went Trick-or-Treating
5+ readers 7+ readersAs much a game as a book, this is lots of fun to read, and lots of fun to look at too. Two little children, a boy and a girl, are all dressed up and ready to go trick or treating. The meet all sorts of creatures – a creepy, sleepy spider, a naughty, warty toad, a wizard’s noisy owl and a sliding, gliding ghost. Young readers can join in as the growing list is repeated on each page, and there’s a super surprise ending too. With its engaging text and gorgeous illustrations this will put everyone in the mood for Hallowe’en. A definite treat!
I Want to Be in a Scary Story
3+ readers 5+ readersThe Little Monster thinks he's brave but we're not so sure! Little Monster really wants to be in a scary story but he won't listen to the narrator who thinks a funny story might be better... But the dark and scary forest is just too dark and scary. And the creepy witch is just too creepy. And the ghost? Oh jeepers creepers! Jean Julliene's illustrations jump off the page; the Little Monster pulls the most wonderfully expressive faces. A cute, funny and just a little bit scary, picture book perfect for Halloween fun.
The Best Sound in the World
3+ readers 5+ readersOctober 2018 Debut of the Month | | What’s the best sound in the world? Ray the little lion is determined to find out, because he thinks that will help him become a famous musician (he plays the violin). He spends hours bottling beautiful sounds – the plip-plop of rain in the forest, the tweeting of birds in the mountains, the chitter-chatter of the market – but just can’t decide. His neighbour little lemur Jemmy tries to help, but Roy is just annoyed when Jemmy dances to his music, or claps in time. Indeed, it takes him the whole book to realise that Jemmy’s friendship helps him make the best sounds ever. It’s a lovely story, beautifully told and Cindy Wume’s illustrations are gorgeous. A charming and original picture book that should become a real favourite.
I'm the Biggest
3+ readers 5+ readersIt's hard to be a good big brother, especially when your little brother is getting all the praise for growing more than you! Simon is the popular cheeky rabbit creation from French author/illustrator Stephanie Blake, seen on Channel 5's Milkshake. He's a bit rude and a bit naughty but lots of fun and when he sees his baby brother being bullied, he shows a caring, protective side too. The artwork is colourful, bold and highly expressive.
The Princess in Black
5+ readers 7+ readersIn a nutshell: princesses can be masked avengers too! | Princess Magnolia is neat, polite and very, very sweet, but when she gets a call on her monster-alarm she changes in an instant to become the Princess in Black, more than able to take on the huge monsters that live underneath her kingdom. In her black cape and mask, she uses techniques like the Princess Pounce and the Twinkle Twinkle Little Smash to overcome a big blue monster, before rushing back to the palace to keep her secret hidden from nosy Duchess Wigtower. The story is hugely entertaining and very neatly written, the sentences short enough for beginner readers, but packed with action nonetheless. With lively full colour illustrations on every page this is a really super series for young children, and who could resist a princess like Magnolia? ~ Andrea Reece
Pick a Pine Tree
3+ readers 5+ readersA Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month October 2018 | | Festive cheer fuels this bouncy rhyming text as it celebrates the excitement of getting and decorating the tree for Christmas. From choosing the right pine tree, decorating it with lights and baubles in an atmosphere of friendship and sharing and finally transforming it a Christmas tree for all to enjoy, all the magic of Christmas is gathered in these words and pictures.
On the Mountain
3+ readers 5+ readersTake the very young on a trip into the high mountains in this excellent first information book. Each page features a stunning pop-up depicting one of the animals native to the mountains, from wolf to bear, from Bald Eagle to a Rainbow Trout, particularly beautiful and dramatic in rich reds and greens. The animals are introduced via lines of verse while elsewhere on the page short lines of text convey interesting and intriguing facts. The pop-ups are not only beautiful but sturdy enough to stand repeated readings, and this is a book to inspire the very young.
Plastic Pollution on Land and in the Oceans Let's Investigate
5+ readers 7+ readers 9+ readersAs the issue of plastic pollution on land and in the oceans becomes ever more urgent, children need to understand what is going on, why and what steps they can do to change things. This book explains in clear text and abundant photographs what plastic is, how it is used, and why it’s a problem for the world. In addition to presenting the facts, it challenges young people to think about what they can do to help as well as including the latest information on plastic replacements – packaging made from seaweed for example. A useful, effective and stimulating information book.
Poppy Field
5+ readers 7+ readersA new illustrated story celebrating the poppy's history. Michael Morpurgo and Michael Foreman have teamed up with the Royal British Legion to tell an original story that explains the meaning behind the poppy.In Flanders' fields, young Martens knows his family's story, for it is as precious as the faded poem hanging in their home. From a poor girl comforting a grieving soldier, to an unexpected meeting of strangers, to a father's tragic death many decades after treaties were signed, war has shaped Martens's family in profound ways - it is their history as much as any nation's. They remember. They grieve. They honour the past. This book also includes a full-colour, illustrated afterword that explains the history that inspired the story.
Poetry for a Change
5+ readers 7+ readers 9+ readersNational Poetry Day is a chance for everyone everywhere to read, share and enjoy poetry. This special anthology features poems by the National Poetry Day Ambassadors, a top team of fantastic poets who bring poetry alive all year round.
Snow in the Garden: A First Book of Christmas
5+ readers 7+ readersA Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month October 2018 | | Award-winning illustrator Shirley Hughes is regarded as a national treasure for her touching and realistic picture books of contemporary pre-school life. This delightful anthology is full of Christmassy and wintery poems and stories all brought to life by her familiar illustrations of families enjoying seasonal delights. The perfect for book for the season.
The Month Before's Featured Books
As We Grow The journey of life...
3+ readers 5+ readersSeptember 2018 Book of the Month | September 2018 Book of the Month | From the clever cut-outs on the cover which reveal three figures at different times of life, this will catch the eye and hold the attention of young children. A gentle rhyming text describes the five stages of man, from tiny baby to the quiet days of the elderly, reminding us that every bit of growing up – that ‘journey to be “me”’ – has its own joys and challenges. The illustrations are beautiful – calm and simple with muted colours, but full nonetheless of detail and a sense of the uninterrupted passing of time. Lovely to look at, and lovely to read too, this is a book children can return to over and over to check their own journey to adulthood.
The Girl, the Bear and the Magic Shoes
3+ readers 5+ readersSeptember 2018 Book of the Month | A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month September 2018 | Best-selling duo Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks’ new picture book is a charming adventure full of magic and friendship. When Josephine buys a new pair of running shoes she is told that they are magic. And it is lucky that they are! While Josephine loves the pit-a-pat sound her new shoes make as she hurries down the road from the shop she is very frightened by the Bear with a rucksack who is following her. Helped by her magic talking shoes which very splendidly adapt to any situation including climbing up a mountain and ski-ing down it, squelching through mud and swimming a river, Josephine keeps just ahead. And when the pair finally do meet up, Josephine discovers that she had never had anything to fear after all! Wonderful glittery and embossed illustrations add extra magic to the story. Julia Eccleshare's Picks for September: The Legend of Kevin: A Roly-Poly Flying Pony Adventure by Philip Reeve The Girl, the Bear and the Magic Shoes by Julia Donaldson Happy: A Children's Book of Mindfulness by Nicola Edwards Jelly Boots, Smelly Boots by Michael Rosen You've Got a Friend by Judi Curtin Tilly and the Bookwanderers (Pages & Co., Book 1) by Anna James Wish for a Witch by Kaye Umansky Poems to Live Your Life By by Chris Riddell Once Upon a Wild Wood by Chris Riddell
Princess Swashbuckle
3+ readers 5+ readersAugust 2018 Book of the Month | This swashbuckling, delightfully illustrated adventure is great fun, but has some important messages for readers too. It starts in the most traditional of ways: Once upon a time… but then this tale of a frog princess sails into unchartered waters. The princess knows she wants more than to settle down with a frog prince, and sets off to be a pirate. She takes command of the Stinky Fish, organising its demoralised crew and setting out to find them nice things to do. She loves it, but misses her mum and dad too, and they of course are missing her. A very happy reunion follows and indeed everyone lives happily ever after. There’s a proper emphasis on happy here, and how it comes through kindness, understanding and being true to yourself.
Itchy, Scritchy, Scratchy Pants
3+ readers 5+ readersWell, here’s a book that ticks some absolute favourite first reader boxes: Vikings – tick; bare bottoms – tick; knickers – tick; a bouncy rhyming text just right for reading aloud – tick; lively, action-packed illustrations – tick, tick, tick! The plot concerns some chilly Vikings and their quest to obtain yeti hair with which to knit cosy new knickers, and while it all builds to a tremendous and satisfying climax, most readers will be totally won over on page one, with the lines: “Well, they’d got into a fight, had their undies set alight,/ Now their pants were all in pieces and their bums were turning blue!” Just great fun!
The Space Train
3+ readers 5+ readersJakob has found the long-lost Space Train! But it's old, battered and broken. With the help of Granny and Derek the robot chicken, can Jakob fix the train?
We Are Together
3+ readers 5+ readersIllustrated by Britta Teckentrup with typically vibrant colours and eye-catching compositions, We Are Together is a beautiful book. On each page children stand in different scenes, some are there on the page, others we glimpse through carefully-placed cut-outs. More and more appear on each page until at the end they all stand together, one big, happy crowd. The text emphasises the importance of community, of embracing all that life has to offer, and of the importance of friends particularly ‘when the icy winds blow’. Young readers will love looking at the different children, who though small are all individual characters, while the different scenes are wonderfully bright and lively, teeming with animals, birds or flowers. A book to inspire readers.
I Went Trick-or-Treating
5+ readers 7+ readersAs much a game as a book, this is lots of fun to read, and lots of fun to look at too. Two little children, a boy and a girl, are all dressed up and ready to go trick or treating. The meet all sorts of creatures – a creepy, sleepy spider, a naughty, warty toad, a wizard’s noisy owl and a sliding, gliding ghost. Young readers can join in as the growing list is repeated on each page, and there’s a super surprise ending too. With its engaging text and gorgeous illustrations this will put everyone in the mood for Hallowe’en. A definite treat!
Elvis the Squirrel: A Bloomsbury Young Reader
5+ readers 7+ readersTony Bradman packs a great deal of adventure and humour into this little book, all presented in a way to make it ideal for new readers. Elvis is an impetuous young squirrel, and persuades his friend Chuck to leap onto the bird table without looking. Uh-oh, before you can say “Breakfast is served”, a huge crow called Ronnie has snatched Chuck away. Can Elvis persuade the other garden birds to help him in a rescue attempt? It’s a learning experience for Elvis, while readers will appreciate the short chapters and bright full colour illustrations, and as well as the exciting story of course, which all keep the pages turning smoothly
The Real Boat
5+ readers 7+ readersHighly Commended, 2018 Klaus Flugge Prize | There are absolutely beautiful illustrations within the book, some of them exquisitely good, and the judges are excited to see what Semyinka will do next. They particularly admire the skilful change of scale that occurs throughout the little boat’s journey. Klaus Flugge Judge, Lauren Child said: “Here is illustration that is not only exquisitely decorative but also uses the page to great effect. There are many original viewpoints, crops and changes of scale and these beautifully carry the reader across the storybook seas."
Curiosity The Story of a Mars Rover
5+ readers 7+ readersShortlisted for the 2018 Klaus Flugge Prize | Motum is definitely an illustrator to watch. Though this is an information book, you feel there is a story being told, with pace and animation. His work reminded the Klaus Flugge judges of iconic Czech illustrator M Sasek.
The Night Box
5+ readersShortlisted for the 2018 Klaus Flugge Prize | Max has a key and a box of midnight blue. When he turns the key in the lock - WHOOSH! Day slips inside as Night sweeps out. Darkness tumbles into the air. It dances and whirls around the room. It goes under the bed, under the chair - everywhere. Louise Greig's lyrical voice and Ashling Lindsay's warm, endearing illustrations hold a candle up to the magical nature of night-time in this soothing picture book. Perfect for cosying up to read and share before bedtime, The Night Box is an original bedtime tale that sits perfectly alongside classics such as The Owl who was Afraid of the Dark - great for reassuring little ones who have a fear of the dark and calming down lively children before bedtime!
My Name is Not Refugee
3+ readers 5+ readers 7+ readersWinner of the 2018 Klaus Flugge Prize | Longlisted for the UKLA 2018 Book Award June 2017 Book of the Month Simple enough for the youngest child to understand and certain to prompt feelings of empathy in readers of all ages this timely story follows a young boy as he sets out from his home to find somewhere safe to live. “Remember, only take what you can carry”, says his mum, and “What would you take?” asks a highlighted line of text, the first of a series of questions that puts the reader in the little boy’s shoes. While the dangers and difficulties of the boy’s long journey are made clear through words and the stark, rather beautiful pictures, there’s still room for play and adventure, which makes the boy’s experiences more real and recognisable for youngsters. It ends on a note of hope, but we still feel we’ve made that frightening journey into the unknown. ~ Andrea Reece A Piece of Passion from Mairi Kidd, MD of Barrington Stoke: “It's always inspiring to visit the Anglia Ruskin CSA stand at Bologna and this year especially so - My Name is Not Refugee drew me back again and again. It's so perfectly pitched for young children, focusing on the aspects of life and routine that are so important for under 5s and asking the reader to reflect on how these might be affected by tremendous upheaval. The effect is to reduce distance and to emphasise that this is a human tragedy we cannot ignore.”A message from the author, Kate Milner: “The idea for this book came to me while driving home from Cambridge one evening. My daughter, who works in a school, had told me that the children in her class were asking her about the refugee crisis… They didn’t understand what was being discussed in the news and she had nothing to show them. I asked myself if there was anything I could do and by the end of the journey the book was clear in my head. It’s a story which asks children from a safe, comfortable background to think about what it must be like to leave your home and make a journey into the unknown.” Klaus Flugge Prize Judge, Children’s Laureate Lauren Child says: “The questions My Name is Not Refugee asks us to consider help us to think ourselves into someone else’s shoes. And the illustrations do just what they should, allowing the reader time to contemplate the predicament of the storybook child, a chance to imagine and to empathize.”
Frights and Bites Fangs! Scream! Zombie!
5+ readers 7+ readersA Dirty Bertie collection to delight his legions of fans who revel in his revolting ways! Featuring nine stories from Fangs!, Scream! and Zombie! A review for Fangs! - Disgusting Dirty Bertie is back for a new set of mucky adventures. As ever he has some crazy plans up his sleeve most of which involve him being disgusting in more ways than can easily be imagined. This time Bertie dresses up as a vampire for his school’s book week. But someone else has the same idea and soon things are going far from smoothly for Bertie! ~ Julia Eccleshare
The Giant Jumperee
3+ readers 5+ readersA Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month September 2018 | Julia Donaldson and Helen Oxenbury bring the very best of their award-winning The Gruffalo and We’re Going on a Bear Hunt respectively to this glorious new picture book which will remind readers of both. When Rabbit hears a loud voice coming from right inside his burrow he is terrified. What terrible kind of creature could the Giant Jumperee who is hiding in there possibly be? Rabbit’s friends Cat, Bear and Elephant all come to help but are they brave enough or clever enough to discover just who the Giant Jumperee is?
Happy: A Children's Book of Mindfulness
3+ readers 5+ readersA Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month September 2018 | As befits its subtitle ‘A Children’s Book of Mindfulness’, Happy is a sensitive and calming introduction for young readers on how to engage with the beauty of the world to help them to deal with the big emotions of life. Through its poetic text matched with warmly domestic illustrations it takes readers on a journey from ‘Mindfulness’ to ‘Happiness’ allowing space to reflex on topics such as ‘Listening’, ‘Relaxing, ‘Feeling’, ‘Loving’ and ‘Smelling’
Toto the Ninja Cat and the Incredible Cheese Heist Book 2
5+ readers 7+ readersToto is no ordinary cat, and she can't wait for you to join her on her SECOND ninja adventure! From one of the UK's best-loved broadcasters, purrfect for fans of The Aristocats, The Secret Life of Pets and Atticus Claw Breaks the Law. Toto, the amazing ninja cat, is back and cooler than ever! Toto is almost blind, but that doesn't stop her having brilliant adventures. Something CAT-ASTROPHIC has happened: ALL the cheese in the world has been stolen. Join Toto, her brother Silver and their best-friend Catface on a secret mission to save the day. Toto is going to need all her ninja skills to defeat the fur-midable cheese thief ... Ideal for reading aloud or for children to curl up with and read alone, the story features brilliant black and white illustrations throughout. With gentle themes of friendship, inclusivity and winning in the face of adversity, this is a hilarious must-read for all animal-loving kids! Dermot says: 'The idea for Toto first came to me when my wife and I rescued two stray cats from an olive grove in Italy. One of them, Toto, has been blind from birth, but we quickly realised she had ninja-like reactions. Like a lot of cat owners (or cat servants), we like to imagine our pets having secret lives when we're out or asleep. So before I knew it I was writing about Toto and her brother Silver's nocturnal adventures around London. I really hope that children who pick it up enjoy reading the adventures of our little Italian underdog (cat).' Have you read Toto's first adventure, The Great Snake Escape?
Martha Mayhem and the Barmy Birthday
5+ readers 7+ readersIt's Martha's birthday and the village has planned a surprise party for her - but grumpy witch Griselda Gritch ruins the surprise! Not to worry - Martha's biggest birthday wish comes true when her mum and dad return from their tropical trip especially for her party. Everyone is delighted (apart from grumpy Griselda) and excited to have fun with Martha's present: the Mysterious Mask of Truth, brought back from her parents' far-flung travels. Fun, that is, until the truth starts causing everyone quite a lot of embarrassment . . .
AL's Awesome Science: Splash Down
5+ readers 7+ readersAl’s Awesome Science is perfect for children who are becoming confident readers and want to progress to chapter books. A fun and hilarious page turning plot, accompanied by lots of black and white pictures to pore over and enjoy. Each title includes, fun and at times messy, step-by-step science experiments, integrated in comic book form to accompany the text.
Once Upon a Raindrop The Story of Water
5+ readers 7+ readersVia simple but elegant illustrations, and a gentle sometimes playful rhyming text, this picture book passes on all sorts of information about water and its importance, while never losing the sense of the beauty of this essential element. Words and illustrations take us back in time to the beginning of life on Earth, up hills and deep below the surface to explain that “clouds, rain, river, sea, water cycles endlessly”. Carefully placed splashes of colour underscore pages of different blues, the tinkling rhythm of the text bringing a sense of calm. It all concludes with five fascinating facts about the “world wide wet” and this is a book to savour on lots of different levels.
Greatest Magical Stories, chosen by Michael Morpurgo
5+ readers 7+ readersCinderella, Rumpelstilstskin, Sleeping Beauty, Jack and the Beanstalk: these stories are in our DNA, says Michael Morpurgo in his introduction to this gorgeous new collection. They are told by some of our best authors for children and each story is illustrated in full colour with pictures that match its mood (Ian Beck’s illustrations for The Pied Piper of Hamelin, retold by Adele Geras, are particularly rich). Morpurgo himself has chosen to tell the story of Jack and Beanstalk and, typically, it’s a first person narrative, Jack addressing the reader directly, keeping us breathlessly attentive from the opening line to the happy every after. An excellent collection to share with children.
Fantastically Great Women Who Made History Activity Book
3+ readers 5+ readers 7+ readersAugust 2018 Book of the Month | Kate Pankhurst inspires thousands of young readers with her books about the fantastically great women who made history. This book reunites us with those women, including astronaut Valentina Tereshkova, dancer Josephine Baker, and code breaker Noor Inayat Khan – and encourages readers to think more about them while they complete some fun and creative write in activities. There are writing and drawing tasks, a set of postcards to send to the great people in your life, and the book concludes by asking how you will make history, inviting readers to make a list of their own hopes and dreams for the future. Bright stickers featuring Pankhurst’s lively drawings of her subjects make it even more appealing.
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