Book Reviews
See our latest book reviews and search for all previous reviews. We’ll be adding more over the coming months, so check back to see if your favourite book has been reviewed by us.
The Story Collector series
Jane Ray
Jane Ray has selected a wonderful range of stories for these three volumes of beautifully illustrated retellings, themed on birds, the ocean and animals.
An Engineer Like Me
Dr Shini Somara, illus. Nadja Sarell
Inventive illustrations and an empowering story combine to introduce very young children to engineering, creative thinking and problem-solving.
When We Got Lost in Dreamland
Ross Welford
11 year-old Malky and his younger brother Seb become the owners of two Dreaminators that enable them to journey back in time together.
The Moon of Kyiv
Gianni Rodari, illus. Beatrice Alemagna
Michael Morpurgo’s important words are quoted on the cover: “Read this book, look up at the moon, know it shines on the faces of the children in Ukraine, on everyone everywhere who is living through war and longing for peace.”
Dearest One
Arielle Dance, illus. Jenny Duke
A tender, lyrical story of love for ourselves and others.
The Boy Lost in the Maze
Joseph Coelho, illus. Kate Milner
The lives of 21st century teenager Theo and Theseus of Ancient Greek legend become entwined on their journeys towards manhood.
Nour’s Secret Library
Wafa’ Tarnowska, illus. Vali Mintzi
Inspired by the story of a real secret library in a war zone, Nour's secret library was created by young people during the Syrian Civil War that began in 2011.
Scruff
Alice Bowsher
When an unwanted, scruffy black dog finds a new owner, he’s expected to enjoy rough and tumble in the park like all the other dogs. But Scruff just wants to be pampered. A funny, charming picture book that will enchant dog lovers.
Every Second
Bruno Gilbert
Every second – 100 lightning strikes, 8000 scoops of ice cream, 200,000 text messages, 3 million litres of cow burps… and other incredible things that happen each second around the world. The long English title gives a clear idea of the content.
Zeki Rise and Shine & Zeki Sleep Tight
Anna McQuinn Dance, illus. Ruth Hearson
In these latest books in the series, baby Zeki wakes up to a bright new day and relaxes into peaceful sleep.
The Worry Jar
Lou John, illus. Jenny Bloomfield
Granny shows 4-year-old Frida an ingenious way of managing her worries.
The Unofficial Guide to the Ancient Egyptian Afterlife
Sophie Berger, illus. Laura Winstone
Perfect for young Egyptologists and cat lovers alike.