Bryson could make any subject interesting, and this has been really well adapted for a younger audience to enjoy. There's something interesting on every page and it would be useful for language and British history topics, but equally works as a good leisure NF title, too.

Reviewed by Debbie Bradley on 30th October 2024

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It's a wonderful, imaginative read with distinct and likeable characters. The writing style is ideal for the story, enabling the reader to create clear visuals, and the use of repetition is amusing.  This is a great novel for reading aloud to children and they will never look at a snowman in the same way again.  It touches on bullying and fear, but at its very heart is a 600-year-old love story.  This is the perfect book to curl up with on a cold and dark winter's night.

Reviewed by Emma McElwee on 23rd October 2024

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Seventeen-year-old Neon is about to have sex with his girlfriend, Aria, for the first time. In 24 seconds to be precise. He's hiding in the bathroom, nervous, wanting to do everything right. In this moment he reflects on key moments in his relationship so far and his memories draw the reader into his wider world of supportive friends and family. This is a powerful, thoughtful, sweet & romantic tale, that's in written in an accessible, authentic style with really well crafted, engaging characters. 

Reviewed by Laura Hayward on 23rd October 2024

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This starts as a lost toy story that turns into a magical adventure. There is a dreamlike element which will raise discussion with young readers - did the fox appear or was it a dream? As would be expected from the author, the illustrations are wonderful and offer lots of little details that really bring the whole to life. A wintery treat.

Reviewed by Natalie Wise on 16th October 2024

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A fabulous romp through the history of the humble toilet, revealing a chain of events that brings the reader up-to-date with how today's loo came to be, with lots of yukky stuff on the way.  There's cartoons and jokes and fascinating facts to share with friends.  It has great text, amusing illustrations and plenty of laughs.  Perfect for any reluctant reader and essential for library shelves.

Reviewed by Emma McElwee on 16th October 2024

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Themes including being a foundling/orphaned, bullying, racism, neglect, isolation and loneliness are all highlighted successfully and against the stark, harsh backdrop of 1950's coalmining in the Yorkshire Dales. Even though Birdie is an orphan, she possesses a real sense of self-worth which is challenged when she goes to live with her white relatives in a small all white community. The empathetic thread that runs throughout the book is highlighted when Birdie doesn't understand why people in the community are treating her differently and her chance discovery of Mr. Duke the pit pony and their instant connection brings courage to both of them. It's a gripping story and easy-to-read, the acts of kindness by strangers and between Birdie and Mr. Duke are particularly heartfelt. 

Reviewed by Michaela Owen on 9th October 2024

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A very funny story, will read aloud well and children will love it. The story encourages children to practice their art skills and also gives examples of different artistic impressions of tigers that could inspire art projects. Children will enjoy the silliness and the little bit of magic created by the author knowing what they are thinking about! Something a bit different and it works really well here.

Reviewed by Natalie Wise on 9th October 2024

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This is a fabulous, tender and poignant novel which grips you immediately. Solo, the protagonist is relatable and endearing and his sensitive voice manages to leave the reader both laughing and crying at the same time. The plot delves into themes of poverty and mental health in an engaging way. Wonderful!

Reviewed by Zeena Ark on 8th October 2024

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A magical adventure that weaves together several myths to create a strong and exciting story about a young girl finding a new way in the world after having to move home.  The friendships are well developed and the history of the characters intertwine with the myths to unravel the secrets of the island that she has moved to.  Blair is a feisty character who thinks she knows her own mind but soon discovers the errors of her thinking.  It's a cosy and enjoyable read that keeps the reader gripped and wanting more.  A great read.

Reviewed by Emma McElwee on 25th September 2024

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In a dystopian future, a young girl sets off on a daring mission into a surrounding forest when the spyglass her community depends upon is stolen by a mysterious stranger

Another stunning partnership from the Hardinge/Gravett that presents a richly imagined fantasy world & a resilient heroine who meets her challenging world head on. The picture book novella format is unusual for the teen market but is well worth promoting, and would make a good class reader for KS3 or even for gifted and talented top JF.

Reviewed by Diane Gill on 20th September 2024

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A delightful and entertaining rhyming story about being seen, heard and accepted, however small you may be. Tiny McToot is a small but determined character who dreams big despite his size. Colourful and detailed illustrations makes this an engaging visual experience, complementing the narrative beautifully. It delivers a powerful lesson about self-confidence, resilience and determination. An absolute pleasure to read aloud.

Reviewed by Zeena Ark on 18th September 2024

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Inspired by Hindu mythology, Anya's Quest is an enchanting tale of a young girl's journey to protect the planet.

This is a rich and engaging story drawing on Indian myths and culture that also incorporates sound messages about caring for the earth that feel pertinent rather than worthy. It's beautifully produced with really lovely illustrations by Jane Ray as well.

Reviewed by Laura Hayward on 11th September 2024

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Remember the time we flew to the moon without a rocket? And the time we went to the bottom of the ocean and fought a high-voltage octopus? And how about the time we got lost in the Land of Lost Things? That was one of our most exciting adventures yet! It all started like this...

It's all very silly and very funny with some laugh out loud moments.  The text is brief, complemented by some great and detailed illustrations.   A great read for both new readers and reluctant readers.

Reviewed by Emma McElwee on 11th September 2024

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Beautiful illustrations support this charming and delightful picture book, it is very interactive and engaging with lots of things to spot, encouraging readers to search for winter related items.  The story also has strong underlying messages around the importance of friendship, exploration and enjoying the beauty and wonder of nature.  Just lovely and great to share.

Reviewed by Stephanie Horton on 4th September 2024

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Using details of space travel taken straight from the headlines and NASA's own ambitions to land humans on Mars by 2030, this books aims to inspire young readers to plan a trip into space. From paying for a seat on a commercial flight to becoming a researcher in space, this book not only offers plenty of detail about how to get into orbit but does so with fascinating facts and great illustrations. Added information about rockets, previous astronaut's achievements and things youngsters can do to prepare for space flight are sure to fire the imagination. A great resource for schools and libraries alike. 

Reviewed by Katie Merrick on 4th September 2024

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