Showing posts with label Chapter Book Roundup 2017. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chapter Book Roundup 2017. Show all posts
Thursday, 30 November 2017
ReadItDaddy's Chapter Book Roundup - November 2017
Labels:
Chapter Book Roundup 2017
Starting with "How to Bewitch a Wolf" by Abie Longstaff, the long anticipated follow-up to her fabulous "How to catch a witch".
Once again we catch up with Charlie, who is finally testing her powers as a witch.
But when new boy Zack joins the school, everything goes wrong. He seems perfect - but Charlie is sure there's more to him than meets the eye. Will she be able to use all her newfound powers to work out just what Zack is up to and where he keeps disappearing to when the moon is full?
It's another enchanting exploration of friendship and magic, with tons of originality and character. "How to Bewitch a Wolf" by Abie Longstaff is out now, published by Scholastic.
Sticking with sorcery for the moment, here's one for all you budding witches to try out, a distinctly different journal idea for YA / Older kids...
Readers will discover how to tap into their inner sorceress and channel the dark arts for everything from cluttered apartments to dating disasters.
Want to enhance your attractiveness? Pick the right power color of eyeshadow and project otherworldly glamour.
Need to exorcise a toxic friendship? Say the right symbolic curse and banish it from your life.
Need to boost your self-confidence? Whip up a tasty herbal potion to strengthen your inner resolve. Plus historical and pop culture sidebars that situate the new witchcraft trend within a broader context. With humor, heart, and a hip modern sensibility, journalists Jaya Saxena and Jess Zimmerman dispense witchy wisdom for the curious, the cynical, and anyone who could use a magical boost to get through the day.
Awesomely presented, and hugely original, it's a really brill read for older kids and grown-ups who still believe in magic. "Basic Witches" by Jaya Saxena and Jess Zimmerman is out now, published by Quirk Books.
Two blog favourites next, with their fourth amazing outing for a mighty girl character we've grown to love to bits...
It's another beautifully written, inspirational and lyrical tale featuring a cast of funny and loveable characters, created by children's TV presenter Cerrie Burnell and stunningly illustrated by Laura Ellen Anderson.
Harper and her friends want to help the Wild Conductor win back his place in the magical Circus of Dreams. They put on a wondrous show, but instead of the Wild Conductor, the ringmaster selects the musically gifted Harper.
Once inside the circus, Harper begins to solve a mystery involving Fire Star, a girl who shines like a star whenever she hears music...
Mixing a goodly dose of magic, intrigue and sheer dazzlement, it's another win for mighty girls who love strong female characters.
"Harper and the Fire Star" by Cerrie Burnell and Laura Ellen Anderson is out now, published by Scholastic.
More magic now, this time from a hugely prolific and talented author who writes hit after hit.
"The Princess and the Suffragette" by Holly Webb is the fantastic follow-up to "A Little Princess".
Lottie, the smallest girl from the original story, learns about the Suffragette movement from Sara, who returns to visit from time to time.
Soon Lottie finds herself sneaking out of the orphanage to attend a demonstration, in defiance of her cold, distant father.
A father who has a secret to hide about her own missing mother...
It's a story about lost mothers turning up in unexpected situations, the power of friendship and female empowerment.
Absolutely timely in its exploration of issues that are vitally important today, just as they were at the turn of the 20th Century, "The Princess and the Suffragette" by Holly Webb is out now, published by Scholastic.
Now, a fantastic selection of additions to a series that has been a huge seller over in the US, and looks likely to repeat that success over here in Europe (are we still allowed to call ourselves that? Of course we are!)
"The Sisters Grimm" is a delightful twist on fairy tales, with a cool detective vibe mixed in with scintillating stories reintroducing some of the most well-loved characters in literature in fab and exciting ways.
In "The Sisters Grimm: Tales from the Hood" by Michael Buckley, which is book 6 in the series, the Grimms defend Mr. Canis in Ferryport Landing's trial of the century!
This book sees Mr. Canis, dear friend and protector of the Grimm family, put on trial for past crimes.
Considering that he's really the Big Bad Wolf, he does have a lot to answer for. But is there really any truth to the story told by Little Red Riding Hood?
What's the deal with all that huffing and puffing? Will Mr. Canis be forced to answer for his crimes?
A kangaroo court of Everafters, led by the cruel Queen of Hearts, is determined to find Canis guilty and force the Grimms out of Ferryport Landing.
Meanwhile, Puck has decided to focus more on his mischievous ways, making a few new troublemaker friends. So it's up to Sabrina and Daphne to find evidence to save Canis and their investigation may reveal more than they hoped.
Lacing this fantastic story world with a courtroom drama that is equal parts funny and gripping, catch up with the series and the latest "The Sisters Grimm:Tales from the Hood" by Michael Buckley, which is out now and published by Abrams Young Readers.
Sticking with all things lupine for our next book, something new from one of our favourite middle grade and YA publishers of the moment, Chicken House are publishing the fantastic "The Rise of Wolves" by Kerr Thomson...
This is an exciting adventure in an unforgiving landscape as we meet Innis Munro, trekking home across the bleak wilderness of Nin Island.
In "The Sisters Grimm: Tales from the Hood" by Michael Buckley, which is book 6 in the series, the Grimms defend Mr. Canis in Ferryport Landing's trial of the century!
This book sees Mr. Canis, dear friend and protector of the Grimm family, put on trial for past crimes.
Considering that he's really the Big Bad Wolf, he does have a lot to answer for. But is there really any truth to the story told by Little Red Riding Hood?
What's the deal with all that huffing and puffing? Will Mr. Canis be forced to answer for his crimes?
A kangaroo court of Everafters, led by the cruel Queen of Hearts, is determined to find Canis guilty and force the Grimms out of Ferryport Landing.
Meanwhile, Puck has decided to focus more on his mischievous ways, making a few new troublemaker friends. So it's up to Sabrina and Daphne to find evidence to save Canis and their investigation may reveal more than they hoped.
Lacing this fantastic story world with a courtroom drama that is equal parts funny and gripping, catch up with the series and the latest "The Sisters Grimm:Tales from the Hood" by Michael Buckley, which is out now and published by Abrams Young Readers.
Sticking with all things lupine for our next book, something new from one of our favourite middle grade and YA publishers of the moment, Chicken House are publishing the fantastic "The Rise of Wolves" by Kerr Thomson...
Innis is chilled to the bone when he hears something impossible, the howl of a wolf.
Impossible because there are no wolves on the island - not since they were hunted to extinction centuries ago!
It's the cue for Innis to begin exploring his island home and the lead-in to an epic quest concerning an ancient challenge: he who jumps the Bonnie Laddie's Leap will win a vast fortune.
As the wolves rise from the darkness of history, and long-buried secrets resurface, Innis's adventure truly begins.
Utterly gripping, shot full of the sort of crisp wintry atmosphere we love, and another fantastic title in Chicken House's amazing lineup for 2017, catch "The Rise of Wolves" by Kerr Thomson, out now!
We just can't leave wolves alone at the moment, though the amazing hero of our next book is a Vixen with a huge heart, and a ton of bravery...
"Foxcraft: The Mage" by Inbali Iserles follows the continuing adventures of young Isla the Fox.
Full of heart, fantasy, and adventure, the I AM FOX trilogy follows Isla on her quest to track down her missing family.
This final book in the trilogy follows on from "The Elders" and "The Taken", and catches up with Isla as she arrives at the frigid Snowlands to find her lost brother, Pirie.
The tundra is a harsh place - and the wolves who live within its icy kingdoms are harsher still - but Isla's flair for the mysterious arts of foxcraft has grown tremendously.
The young fox is on a mission of grave importance. A cruel and powerful fox known as the Mage is using his own mastery of foxcraft to summon an ancient threat.
If he succeeds, then more than just Pirie's life will be at stake. But Isla discovers the once-proud wolves are broken and wary. Their king is weak, struck by a peculiar madness, and a rival kingdom threatens their borders. If Isla can't find help amongst the wolves, then the whole world will burn.
Utterly amazing, full of dazzling imagery and a fantastic setting, don't miss the final part of the trilogy with "Foxcraft: The Mage" by Inbali Iserles, published by Scholastic and out now!
No wolves in the next one, but there are some truly amazing animals who also showed amazing bravery during two world wars...
"Jet the Rescue Dog" by David Long, with fabulous illustrations by Peter Bailey, is a collection of stories of animals in wartime, presented in this fantastic 'classic' style cover for the first time.
Dogs, horses, cats (even birds, camels and elephants) have saved thousands of lives through instinct, intelligence, courage and devotion.
Like Jet, a dog who searched through ruins during the Blitz bombings to find survivors, or Sergeant Stubby, a dog who caught a spy.
Like Jet, a dog who searched through ruins during the Blitz bombings to find survivors, or Sergeant Stubby, a dog who caught a spy.
Or the pigeons who braved hurricanes, hawks and even snipers to help during WWI and WWII.
Engaging, uplifting and deeply moving, Jet the Rescue Dog tells the stories of these brave, silent heroes with sensitivity and gentle humour for readers age 8+, illustrated throughout with Peter's awesome ink drawings.
Engaging, uplifting and deeply moving, Jet the Rescue Dog tells the stories of these brave, silent heroes with sensitivity and gentle humour for readers age 8+, illustrated throughout with Peter's awesome ink drawings.
"Jet the Rescue Dog and other extraordinary stories of animals in wartime" by David Long and Peter Bailey is out now, published by Faber and Faber.
Palazzo are republishing some stunning books at the moment, and we're definitely celebrating "Michael Power" with this next one...
"Arthur, High King of Britain" is a fantastic retelling of the stories and chronicles of King Arthur.
Retold in Morpurgo's exquisite prose, it's a dazzling mix of amazing chivalry, bravery and magical legend fused together with the most amazing illustrations by Michael Foreman.
This dream team have come up with a definitive anthology of stories taken from Arthurian legend, beautifully presented in a hardback format and perfect for children who are just beginning to learn about the Legend of King Arthur themselves.
It's a beautiful read, as you'd expect from Morpurgo - made even more gorgeous by Foreman's astonishingly detailed and ethereal illustrations.
A complete win for us, as we love anything to do with King Arthur.
"Arthur, High King of Britain" by Michael Morpurgo and Michael Foreman is out now, published by Palazzo.
Something a little more light-hearted next...do you like Pugs? Charlotte definitely does...!
Palazzo are republishing some stunning books at the moment, and we're definitely celebrating "Michael Power" with this next one...
Retold in Morpurgo's exquisite prose, it's a dazzling mix of amazing chivalry, bravery and magical legend fused together with the most amazing illustrations by Michael Foreman.
This dream team have come up with a definitive anthology of stories taken from Arthurian legend, beautifully presented in a hardback format and perfect for children who are just beginning to learn about the Legend of King Arthur themselves.
It's a beautiful read, as you'd expect from Morpurgo - made even more gorgeous by Foreman's astonishingly detailed and ethereal illustrations.
A complete win for us, as we love anything to do with King Arthur.
"Arthur, High King of Britain" by Michael Morpurgo and Michael Foreman is out now, published by Palazzo.
Something a little more light-hearted next...do you like Pugs? Charlotte definitely does...!
"Safari Pug: The Dog who Walked on the Wild Side" by Laura James and Eglantine Ceulemans continues the astonishing adventures of Pug.
This time the snub-nosed fellah finds himself in a pretty scary situation on Safari.
When Pug and Lady Miranda have a run-in with a lion one night (it might be hiding under the bed), Lady M decides Pug needs to face his fears and go on safari.
This time the snub-nosed fellah finds himself in a pretty scary situation on Safari.
When Pug and Lady Miranda have a run-in with a lion one night (it might be hiding under the bed), Lady M decides Pug needs to face his fears and go on safari.
Pug goes a bit wobbly when he finds out he'll be coming nose to nose with Florence, the rare white lion cub, but he soon realises that lions may not be the most dangerous thing in the wildlife park. You'll have to read the book to find out whether Pug prevails, or ends up as lunch for a very hungry mystery animal!
"Safari Pug" by Laura James and Eglantine Ceulemans is out now, published by Bloomsbury.
Time for one final book and it's an absolute doozy from one of my favourite poets of all time.
Celebrating his 80th birthday, Roger McGough has gathered together 80 poems in this fantastic anthology.
One-time beat poet, and one of the poets who first made me sit up and take notice as a poem-loving kid in the 70s, it's a fantastic tribute to a truly amazing and versatile writer whose subjects are always very close to children's hearts.
Best of all, Roger shows off his illustrative talents with new, quirky illustrations to add further enjoyment to his writing. Who knew the guy could draw as well, eh? Wow!
"80" by Roger McGough is out now, published by Puffin.
Our next book is a real "Hooray!" moment, the welcome return of a mighty girl trio...
"The Powerpuff Girls: Hero to Zero by The Powerpuff Girls (yes, really!) is a superb addition to the hugely successful chapter book series featuring these awesome superhero gals.
Blossom, Bubbles and Buttercup are cross when Princess Morebucks is nominated for the Townville Citizen of the Year award instead of them.
How many monsters does a girl have to fight?! They decide to go to neighbouring Villageton, where they're appreicated.
But Villageton isn't as nice as it seems ... and soon the girls are battling without their superpowers!
Without their powers, the Powerpuff Girls are just ... Puff Girls. Can they get their skills back and make their way to their true home?
Without their powers, the Powerpuff Girls are just ... Puff Girls. Can they get their skills back and make their way to their true home?
These are corking little middle grade readers, absolutely fantastic for fans of the cartoon series (yep, that's us!)
"The Powerpuff Girls: Hero to Zero" is out now, published by Orchard Books.
Last but not least, a rather quirky and original story from a publisher new to us.
"King Bones" by Chris Hallatt Wells is being published by Everything With Words, a small publishing house but one we think you'll definitely want to keep an eye on if this book is anything to go by.
The story opens with Danny, who lives with his rather eccentric but awesome parents. Danny's dad loves to cook. The weird thing is that his meals (often made from things that should, by rights, kill you stone dead or at least give you the worst food poisoning ever) are just too good - People love them, until they find out what they're made of.
With their business going slightly awry, Danny's Mum and Dad suffer more woes when they're framed for stealing the crown jewels, leaving Danny in the care of his Aunty. Aunty Ratbag, who is every bit as kind and loving as she sounds (ie, not in the least!)
Danny's life becomes even weirder when he's recruited by a mysterious entity he meets in a Graveyard. King Bones has a very special mission for Danny: he wants his queen back. She has been buried with her ladies in waiting in a separate chamber. Danny discovers that a famous archaeologist has removed her skull and her crown to display them in the British Museum. King Bones and Danny must set out to rescue her.
We're always on the lookout for new and original middle grade reading material and this one's definitely good for perhaps 7 years plus. It's bizarre, funny, heartwarming and definitely ticks the originality box but we urge you not to be eating anything when you read the first few chapters!
"King Bones" by Chris Hallatt Wells is out now, published by Everything With Words.
Last but not least, a rather quirky and original story from a publisher new to us.
The story opens with Danny, who lives with his rather eccentric but awesome parents. Danny's dad loves to cook. The weird thing is that his meals (often made from things that should, by rights, kill you stone dead or at least give you the worst food poisoning ever) are just too good - People love them, until they find out what they're made of.
With their business going slightly awry, Danny's Mum and Dad suffer more woes when they're framed for stealing the crown jewels, leaving Danny in the care of his Aunty. Aunty Ratbag, who is every bit as kind and loving as she sounds (ie, not in the least!)
Danny's life becomes even weirder when he's recruited by a mysterious entity he meets in a Graveyard. King Bones has a very special mission for Danny: he wants his queen back. She has been buried with her ladies in waiting in a separate chamber. Danny discovers that a famous archaeologist has removed her skull and her crown to display them in the British Museum. King Bones and Danny must set out to rescue her.
We're always on the lookout for new and original middle grade reading material and this one's definitely good for perhaps 7 years plus. It's bizarre, funny, heartwarming and definitely ticks the originality box but we urge you not to be eating anything when you read the first few chapters!
"King Bones" by Chris Hallatt Wells is out now, published by Everything With Words.
Phew! Another fantastic roundup this month, we think you'll agree. Whatever you are doing next month, don't miss our final Chapter Book Roundup of the year for 2017 as we gather together an amazing selection of our favourites from our year's worth of roundups - and name our Chapter Book(s) of the year!! See you in December!
Thursday, 26 October 2017
ReadItDaddy's Chapter Book Roundup - October 2017
Labels:
Chapter Book Roundup 2017
"A Journey to the Center of the Earth" by Jules Verne is the fabulous tale of a mission right to the earth's core.
Intrepid explorer and geologist Otto Liedenbrock embarks on the most remarkable human quest ever taken.
With his nephew and guide, he leads the descent from a dormant Icelandic volcano into the unexplored realm beneath their feet. There, a vast subterranean ocean, prehistoric creatures, and natural phenomena are but a few of the wonders hidden from all but the boldest eyes.
Journey to the Center of the Earth epitomizes the subterranean fiction genre, and is the perfect entry point for folk who have yet to experience the timeless thrills of Jules Verne's amazing work.
"A Journey to the Center of the Earth" by Jules Verne is available now, published in an all new leatherbound edition from Barnes and Noble.
From one gorgeous new version of a classic to another...
The timeless tale of a young orphan girl sent to live with her harsh and cold grandfather, it's beautifully illustrated by Jessie Wilcox Smith.
Heidi's optimism, child-like sense of wonder and her love of nature underpin this glorious tale taking place in the mountains of Switzerland.
Such a lovely edition of a book I've been longing to let Charlotte loose on.
"Heidi" by Johanna Spyri and Jessie Wilcox Smith is available in the Barnes and Noble Collectors series, out now.
Let's stick with the mountain setting for the time being with a scintillating new book...
In a story of adventure, survival and hope, set in the vivid Himalayan landscape of Tibet and India, this young girl's thrilling journey to save her parents is an ideal read for children aged 9-12.
There are two words that are banned in Tibet. Two words that can get you locked in prison without a second thought. I watch the soldiers tramping away and call the words after them. 'Dalai Lama.'
Tash has to follow many rules to survive in Tibet, a country occupied by Chinese soldiers. But when a man sets himself on fire in protest and soldiers seize Tash's parents, she and her best friend Sam must break the rules. They are determined to escape Tibet - and seek the help of the Dalai Lama himself in India.
And so, with a backpack of Tash's father's mysterious papers and two trusty yaks by their side, their extraordinary journey across the mountains begins.
It's like a glorious middle grade mix of Indiana Jones and Lara Croft that's got tons of originality and appeal.
"Running on the Roof of the World" by Jess Butterworth is out now, published by Orion Children's Books.
One for reluctant chapter book readers now, neatly splicing together comic and chapter book formats into a fast-paced and futuristic adventure series with huge boy and girl appeal.
"My Magical Life" introduces eleven-year-old Zach, who has magical powers, just like everyone in his family.
The only problem is that Zach is having more trouble harnessing his powers than his family ever did.
To help his powers manifest, and to help him appreciate his natural gifts, Zach's parents decide that he needs to be around 'real' people more. No more homeschooling - it's time for Zach to enter the scary and terrifying world of secondary school!
But Zach can't resist a bit of magic... A simple spell ends with him and his best friend stuck in a vending machine. Someone filmed it and by the next day he's gone viral on YouTube, in the process attracting the attention of Rachel, the prettiest girl at school.
With everyone wondering how Zach does his tricks, and with head mean girl Trisha plotting to bring him down, Zach's got his work cut out if he's going to survive year 7 and keep his dreams of becoming a master magician intact.
To help his powers manifest, and to help him appreciate his natural gifts, Zach's parents decide that he needs to be around 'real' people more. No more homeschooling - it's time for Zach to enter the scary and terrifying world of secondary school!
But Zach can't resist a bit of magic... A simple spell ends with him and his best friend stuck in a vending machine. Someone filmed it and by the next day he's gone viral on YouTube, in the process attracting the attention of Rachel, the prettiest girl at school.
With everyone wondering how Zach does his tricks, and with head mean girl Trisha plotting to bring him down, Zach's got his work cut out if he's going to survive year 7 and keep his dreams of becoming a master magician intact.
"Zach King: My Magical Life" also comes with a code for a free app for more switched-on kids, to compliment the pacy action.
"Zach King: My Magical Life" by Zach King is out now, published by Puffin.
Next, a superb slice of fantasy that tails off an awesome trilogy, ending the series with a bang...
"Michael's Spear" by Hilton Pashley follows on from Gabriel's Clock and Ammael's Wings, once again focusing on Jonathan and Lillith as the universe is in danger of peeling apart at the seams.
As Jonathan and his friends fight to save the universe, their every move is being watched from the shadows by Archdemon Lilith.
Next, a superb slice of fantasy that tails off an awesome trilogy, ending the series with a bang...
As Jonathan and his friends fight to save the universe, their every move is being watched from the shadows by Archdemon Lilith.
With the legendary Michael's Spear under her control Jonathan has never faced a more lethal foe.
Jonathan will need to overcome insurmountable odds in order to fulfil his destiny. It's time for Gabriel's grandson finally to spread his wings.
A stunning book along the lines of Philip Pullman and J.R.R Tolkien, it's an epic end to a trilogy that has won Hilton an army of fans.
"Michael's Spear" by Hilton Pashley is out on 16th November 2017, published by The Dome Press.
We're nowhere near done yet, so what's next in our fantastic bag o' books?
Something rather special, as we take a look at "Witch Born" by Nicholas Bowling, coming in November from Chicken House Books.
Step back in time to 1577 and Tudor England. Queen Elizabeth I has imprisoned scheming Mary Queen of Scots
We're nowhere near done yet, so what's next in our fantastic bag o' books?
Step back in time to 1577 and Tudor England. Queen Elizabeth I has imprisoned scheming Mary Queen of Scots
Alyce is stricken with grief after her mother is burned at the stake for witchcraft.
Exacting her revenge, Alyce kills the witchfinder and flees to London - but the chase is far from over.
Alyce soon begins to discover her own dark magic. But will she live to use it as powerful political forces are on her trail.
She can't help but wonder: why is she so important? Soon she finds herself deep in a secret battle between rival queens, the fate of England resting on her shoulders.
This is a fantastic alt-history novel, beautifully and expertly written by Nicholas Bowling with a hugely atmospheric plot, fantastic characters and that brilliant backdrop of political and royal unrest.
"Witch Born" by Nicholas Bowling is out on 2nd November 2017, published by Chicken House Books.
Next we're catching up with a fantastic series by a supremely talented young man who seems to be a huge success in everything he does.
Chris Colfer's "The Land of Stories" series is an amazing mash-up of just about every fairy tale and story type you can imagine, brought beautifully together in an award-winning series of stories for the upper end of middle grade and YA.
All of the Land of Stories fairy tale characters - heroes and villains - are no longer confined within their world! They've broken free of their shackles, and are crossing over - causing mayhem and chaos all over the land.
With big trouble brewing in the Big Apple, Conner and Alex will have to win their biggest battle yet. Can the twins restore order between the human and fairy-tale world?
Breathtaking action mixed with laugh-out-loud moments and lots of heart will make this a gripping conclusion for fans old and new.
With big trouble brewing in the Big Apple, Conner and Alex will have to win their biggest battle yet. Can the twins restore order between the human and fairy-tale world?
Breathtaking action mixed with laugh-out-loud moments and lots of heart will make this a gripping conclusion for fans old and new.
Don't forget to check out upcoming "The Land of Stories: An Author's Odyssey" if you missed the forerunner to this glorious finale.
"The Land of Stories: Worlds Collide" is out now, published by Little, Brown.
Phew! So much excitement, where can we possibly go next? How about a nice bracing run in the mountains with a sports superstar?
"Go Mo Go, Monster Mountain Chase" once again teams up Sir Mo Farah with Kes Gray and Marta Kissi for a middle grade adventure full of excitement, determination and inspiration.
But crossing states is tiring work, and with lots of new creatures (and monsters!) to meet along the way, will Mo and friends ever get time for a sandwich break?
Here comes Bigfoot ... Go Mo, Go!
Fun and chucklesome, it's perfect for fans of the great man himself.
"Go Mo, Go: Monster Mountain Chase" by Mo Farah, Kes Gray and Marta Kissi is out now, published by Hodder Children's Books.
Next, another fantastic book in a thoroughly absorbing historical series...
Caroline Lawrence's stunning "Roman Quests" series continues with "Death in The Arena". Picking up the story of 11 year old Ursula, life is idyllic as she learns how to be a Druid in the woods of Britannia.
When Ursula is asked to go on a quest to find a boy who was abducted as a baby, she may need more than her mystical training to cope with life on the road.
Ursula finds good company in a troupe of roman performers, but before long she's drawn into the gladiatorial arena, and will have to draw on all her strength and character if she's to escape and complete her task.
Spellbinding, stunning and full of glorious little historical details, "The Roman Quests: Death in the Arena" by Caroline Lawrence is out now, published by Orion Children's Books.
Next, the stunning finale to an exciting fantasy series that has been dazzling us over the last couple of years.
Helen Dennis' fantastic "River of Ink" series draws to a close with this fourth book. "Immortal" takes main protagonist Jed back to London, where the entire story began.
But there's no time to draw breath. The hunt still continues, and in the secret heart of St Paul's Catherdral, Jed's quest takes a dramatic turn. He has one year to complete his task, or his life will be over.
Is Jed's time really up? Or is this just the beginning?
This action-packed book has an illustrated narrative running through it, helping readers to solve the mystery alongside the characters in the story. It's a neat and unique approach that has seen the River of Ink series soar to huge success.
This action-packed book has an illustrated narrative running through it, helping readers to solve the mystery alongside the characters in the story. It's a neat and unique approach that has seen the River of Ink series soar to huge success.
"River of Ink: Immortal" by Helen Dennis is out now, published by Hodder Children's Books.
Something altogether more lighthearted next. Time to meet Binny...!
"Binny Bewitched" is book three in the fabulous Binny series from Hilary McKay.
Something that wasn't really hers in the first place.
With her best enemy Gareth and her beloved dog Max she turns detective to track it down, but the Cornwallis family are anything but helpful.
Little brother James and his friend Dill are having an adventure of their own and big sister Clem is acting very strangely.
On top of all this, Binny suspects their next-door neighbour may be a witch. It's time for Binny to dig in and solve the mystery, with the most reluctant of sidekicks along for the ride.
Fabulously funny, light hearted and whimsical, this is book three in the series but it's well worth checking out "Binny for Short" and "Binny Keeps a Secret" (books 1 and 2 in the series) too!
"Binny Bewitched" by Hilary McKay is out now, published by Hodder Children's Books.
Got your detective gear ready? Feeling nosy? Time for another adventure in the dusty tomes of The Creeper Files...
"The Creeper Files: Incy Wincy Eek!" by Hacker Murphy and Lucie Ebrey probably isn't the book for you if you're slightly Arachnophobic.
There's a scuttling sound and a huge cobwebby plant, a hideous half-man-half-plant monster and a serious case of the chills.
Revenge comes in all shapes and sizes - including enormous and eight-legged so if you feel a strange itchy sensation at the back of your neck while reading this one, you might want to check in the mirror!
Maybe reading the Creeper Files will keep you safe. Maybe it'll keep you alive. Maybe - just maybe - this story wiill help ensure you won't become a victim of the monster known only as . . . The Creeper.
Delicious dark stuff for early middle grade and reluctant readers, "The Creeper Files: Incy Wincy Eek!" by Hacker Murphy and Lucie Ebrey is out now, published by Oxford Children's Books.
Book 2 in a fantastic science-ey series next...
"Jack and the Geniuses - In The Deep Blue Sea" by Bill Nye and Gregory Mone, Jack, his brilliant siblings, and Dr. Hank Witherspoon go on an adventure to the remote Hawaiian island home of Ashley Hawking, a technology billionaire.
Book 2 in a fantastic science-ey series next...
Hawking and engineer Rosa Morris have built a revolutionary electricity plant that harvests energy from the deep ocean, but someone has been sabotaging the project.
In their search for the culprit, Jack and crew venture 2,000 feet below the surface in a homemade submarine, get trapped in an underwater lab, attend the world's strangest birthday party, and find themselves lost at sea.
This fast-paced mystery forces Jack and his siblings to use all their brainpower and cunning to survive and find out who's behind the sabotage.
Like the first excellent book, it includes a glossary of terms and inventions found in the book, as well as an experiment that kids can do at home or in the classroom.
A fab series, brainy as heck, "Jack and the Geniuses In The Deep Blue Sea" by Bill Nye and Gregory Mone is out now, published by Amulet.
Another follow-up book next, and it's time to go back to our fantastic capital with those truly regal bunnies...
But high up in London’s famous skyscraper, the Shard, the horrible Ratzis are plotting to cause chaos during a visit from the President of the United States. And when the Grand Burrow is attacked and Shylo is kidnapped, it looks as though they might just manage it!
Can Shylo escape in time to save the day?
A superb follow-up to the first book, this bestselling series from Santa Montefiore and Simon Sebag Montefiore proves even the smallest rabbit can be the biggest hero. Featuring illustrations throughout by award-winning illustrator Kate Hindley, it's a real treat and should find its way into many a christmas stocking this year.
A superb follow-up to the first book, this bestselling series from Santa Montefiore and Simon Sebag Montefiore proves even the smallest rabbit can be the biggest hero. Featuring illustrations throughout by award-winning illustrator Kate Hindley, it's a real treat and should find its way into many a christmas stocking this year.
"The Royal Rabbits of London: Escape from the Tower" by Santa Montefiore & Simon Sebag Montefiore is out now, published by Simon and Schuster Children's Books.
Oh yes! A fantastic new book from Phil Earle? We have to squeeze that one in as we have loved Phil's stuff so much...
"Scaredy Cat, Scaredy Cat" by Phil Earle and Sara Ogilvie is the next brilliant episode in the Storey Street chronicles, again subtly balancing humour with a touch of mayhem and magic.
Kay Catt has a nickname - Scaredy Catt.
Oh yes! A fantastic new book from Phil Earle? We have to squeeze that one in as we have loved Phil's stuff so much...
Kay Catt has a nickname - Scaredy Catt.
And with good reason. You've never met a more timid, anxious girl in your life.
And when you meet her dad, you'll start to understand why. But when a mysterious old man is spotted on Storey Street, it heralds the start of a great adventure for Kay.
Because Wilf Wilkinson isn't your average, cardigan-wearing, sherbet lemon-sucking old codger.
Oh no. Wilf wears a cloak, and a strange pointy hat, and his walking stick looks suspiciously like an over-sized wand. Could Wilf really be...a wizard?!
It's an excellent addition to the Storey Street books, once again full of characters that will instantly win you over (we loved Wilf to bits, of course! Like a budget version of Dumbledore but infinitely funnier!).
"Scaredy Cat, Scaredy Cat" by Phil Earle and Sara Ogilvie is out now, published by Orion Children's Books.
One last one before we go, and it would be completely remiss of us not to mention this as it came out a few days ago and is already going stratospheric...
"The Book of Dust" by Philip Pullman with an exquisite cover by Chris Wormell has just dropped like a bomb on the bookworld, with a sheer MANIA around the midnight launches we witnessed as we made our weary way back from London the day before this book came out.
Returning to Pullman's delicious alt-Oxford is intriguing enough as the story picks up with an Eleven-year-old boy. Malcolm Polstead and his dæmon, Asta, live with his parents at the Trout Inn near Oxford.
Across the River Thames (which Malcolm navigates often using his beloved canoe, a boat by the name of La Belle Sauvage) is the Godstow Priory where the nuns live.
Malcolm learns they have a guest with them; a baby by the name of Lyra Belacqua . . .
We're just a few chapters in, and already I can tell that this is definitely a return to form for Philip. I really enjoyed "The Golden Compass" but found both sequels a real chore (honest reviews are us). This feels similar in atmosphere and gives us what we really wanted - more of that amazing alternative universe that touches on places we know from our own home town (pretty sure The Trout Inn will be rubbing their hands with glee at the prospect of a horde of new visitors flocking to that tiny little pub on the river to check out Malcolm's boat - though I think they'll be a bit disappointed when they see the cow-dung covered priory!)
This is scintillating though, and it's going to sell like hotcakes.
"The Book of Dust" by Philip Pullman is out now, published by Penguin Random House.
One last one before we go, and it would be completely remiss of us not to mention this as it came out a few days ago and is already going stratospheric...
Returning to Pullman's delicious alt-Oxford is intriguing enough as the story picks up with an Eleven-year-old boy. Malcolm Polstead and his dæmon, Asta, live with his parents at the Trout Inn near Oxford.
Across the River Thames (which Malcolm navigates often using his beloved canoe, a boat by the name of La Belle Sauvage) is the Godstow Priory where the nuns live.
Malcolm learns they have a guest with them; a baby by the name of Lyra Belacqua . . .
We're just a few chapters in, and already I can tell that this is definitely a return to form for Philip. I really enjoyed "The Golden Compass" but found both sequels a real chore (honest reviews are us). This feels similar in atmosphere and gives us what we really wanted - more of that amazing alternative universe that touches on places we know from our own home town (pretty sure The Trout Inn will be rubbing their hands with glee at the prospect of a horde of new visitors flocking to that tiny little pub on the river to check out Malcolm's boat - though I think they'll be a bit disappointed when they see the cow-dung covered priory!)
This is scintillating though, and it's going to sell like hotcakes.
"The Book of Dust" by Philip Pullman is out now, published by Penguin Random House.
Phew, and that's a wrap!! Tune in next month when we start talking about the dreaded C word!! No not Charlotte, Christmas as we begin to dive into our book bag to look at all the things you should be sticking on your list to Santa!
Thursday, 26 January 2017
ReadItDaddy's Chapter Book Roundup - January 2017
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Chapter Book Roundup 2017
So we're kicking off with a book that instantly had Charlotte saying "that's ME!"
Chris Higgins' "Trouble Next Door" (with illustrations from Emily MacKenzie) is bang on the nail for Charlotte's taste, being a hilarious slice of girlish life.
Our hero Bella has just moved into a new house. It's old and dark and she's sure there's a ghost in the attic! But things look up when she meets her new next-door neighbour Magda. Magda is lots of fun! She's bubbly and full of imagination and can even turn cartwheels! It doesn't take long before the two neighbours become best friends.
But Magda is, unfortunately, the sort of girl your mum warned you about! She breaks Bella's mum's best tea set, trashes Bella's room and covers the whole living room in soot.
But Magda is, unfortunately, the sort of girl your mum warned you about! She breaks Bella's mum's best tea set, trashes Bella's room and covers the whole living room in soot.
Worse than that, somehow Bella ends up getting the blame for everything. Is this new frenemy more trouble than she's worth?
With tons of slapstick and comedy and a rather acutely observed slice of middle grade girl life captured perfectly within its covers, "Trouble Next Door" is a smasher!
"Trouble Next Door" by Chris Higgins and Emily MacKenzie is out on 12th January 2017, published by Bloomsbury.
Next, this one is really going to rock your world if you've ever dreamed of living in a bookshop.
Sylvia Bishop's awesome "The Bookshop Girl" won us both over (and by now you'll have already seen it hit our Book of the Week slot), not just because it came with a free cup of tea (and there's no better way to review a book than with a free cuppa! We're still amazed they managed to mail it to us without spilling it!) but because it has one of the most original heroes you're likely to find in a book.
Meet Eleven-year-old Property Jones who (gasp) lives the dream, actually living in a bookshop (oh god, if we could ever actually do that I think we'd both just die of bliss!)
Found in the shop’s lost property cupboard at five years old, Property Jones was never collected so now calls the Bookshop 'home'.
But when Property’s adopted bookshop family announce that they’ve won a competition, and that the prize is Montgomery’s Book Emporium – the most magical, most magnificent bookshop in the world! – Property realises that not all is as it seems. The bookshop may come with more books than they’ve ever dreamed of (as well as one extremely grumpy cat), but it also comes with a mystery to be solved. As far as Property is concerned, there's only one gal for the job!
But when Property’s adopted bookshop family announce that they’ve won a competition, and that the prize is Montgomery’s Book Emporium – the most magical, most magnificent bookshop in the world! – Property realises that not all is as it seems. The bookshop may come with more books than they’ve ever dreamed of (as well as one extremely grumpy cat), but it also comes with a mystery to be solved. As far as Property is concerned, there's only one gal for the job!
We adored this book, shot through with originality from start to finish, a refreshing change from the usual middle grade staples - and a tip to budding authors out there, setting your book in a bookshop or a library just seems to make it a gajillion times more appealing to us so there y'go (oh and PRs, free tea = GENIUS idea!)
"The Bookshop Girl" by Sylvia Bishop is out on 2nd March 2017, published by Scholastic Books. Look out for a review around that time!
What's next in our 2017 January Book Bag? It's about time we solved a mystery or two...
Patricia Elliott's spirited sleuth Connie Carew is back in Book two of the awesome girl detective series.
This time Connie is on a luxury ocean liner bound for New York (it's alright for some!)
It's far from the idyllic luxury cruise though, as there's trouble at sea. Someone is trying to harm the passengers. Why? Who has a grudge against whom?
It's up to Connie to investigate the secrets of all the passengers as, mile by nautical mile, the ship sails ever closer towards disaster.
Connie is a clever, witty and opinionated young detective, living at an exciting time - the early part of the 20th century when women were beginning to carve careers and lives of their own. As far as mighty girl heroes go, Connie sets a fantastic example for your own mighty girls and boys who will love her antics and of course her detective brain.
"The Ship of Spectres - A Connie Carew Mystery" is out now, published by Hodder Children's Books.
Pirates! We need some pirates next to compliment all that dastardliness at sea!
This time Connie is on a luxury ocean liner bound for New York (it's alright for some!)
It's far from the idyllic luxury cruise though, as there's trouble at sea. Someone is trying to harm the passengers. Why? Who has a grudge against whom?
It's up to Connie to investigate the secrets of all the passengers as, mile by nautical mile, the ship sails ever closer towards disaster.
Connie is a clever, witty and opinionated young detective, living at an exciting time - the early part of the 20th century when women were beginning to carve careers and lives of their own. As far as mighty girl heroes go, Connie sets a fantastic example for your own mighty girls and boys who will love her antics and of course her detective brain.
"The Ship of Spectres - A Connie Carew Mystery" is out now, published by Hodder Children's Books.
Our pint sized gallant band of heroes live in an old junk shop aboard a dusty ship in a bottle. When the world isn't watching, a tiny pirate crew comes out to explore. They're smaller than a teacup, but these scurvy sailors have a HUGE appetite for adventure!
The Pocket Pirates have left the safety of their shelf to search for GOLD ... but dangers await them. The skirting-board mice are on the prowl, and the shopkeeper has an unwelcome surprise in store!
Treasure hunting is a risky business when you're shorter than a Lego minifigure!
A fab pirate romp, illustrated throughout by Chris (who also illustrated the fantastic "The Boy Who Saved Christmas" by Matt Haig). "Pocket Pirates Book 4: The Great Treasure Hunt" is out now, published by Hodder Children's Books.
More detective fun next, penned by a famous celebrity and her sister.
Twin sisters Molly and Maria are first class detectives with a flair for uncovering adventure - there's no mystery too big for the Fitzfoster duo.
But, alongside their crafty clue-hunting, there's also the small matter of a school camping trip in the big outdoors. The girls are ready to roll up their sleeves but nothing could prepare the friends for what awaits them en France . . .
I let Charlotte loose on this one and she gave it a very firm thumbs up, perfect for her age group and interests with enough glitz, glamour and sparkle for princessy girls too.
"School for Stars - Best Friends Forever" by Holly and Kelly Willoughby is out now, published by Orion Children's Books.
Next, a gorgeous classic brought back to life with a groovy retro cover...
But go straight to the source with the fantastic cloth-bound version new from Orion Publishing.
Deep beneath the floorboards lives the tiny Borrower family - Pod, Homily and Arrietty Clock. Everything they have is borrowed from the humans above them; even their names are not quite their own.
There is just one rule: they must never be seen. Then one day Arrietty accidentally meets the boy from above, and the family's incredible adventure begins.
I remember reading this as a child, and being completely in love with the idea of the little folk.
Charlotte loved the Borrowers through the movie versions (both live action and the gorgeous Ghibli version of the story) so it's been awesome to introduce the book to her.
It's still just as fabulous as ever it was, with the original black and white illustrations included in this version too...
I remember reading this as a child, and being completely in love with the idea of the little folk.Charlotte loved the Borrowers through the movie versions (both live action and the gorgeous Ghibli version of the story) so it's been awesome to introduce the book to her.
It's still just as fabulous as ever it was, with the original black and white illustrations included in this version too...
(Oh look, there's Mrs May!!)
Children young and old are bound to love reading this one.
"The Borrowers" by Mary Norton is out now, published by Orion Children's Books.
Let's have a look at another gorgeous pair of books...
In "Storms and Rainbows" Cora, Isabelle and Lei arrive in Blossom Wood to bright sunshine.
But moments later, a storm begins to rain down.
Blossom Wood is being flooded and the animals need their help.
The only problem is, Lei still doesn't know what her unicorn magic is! Can the Unicorns of Blossom Wood come to the rescue?
More fabulous magic adventures, where adventuresome girls become mythical magical Unicorns (it's very easy to see why this series was a complete win for Charlotte!)
In "Best Friends", Lei, Isabelle and Cora once again return to their favourite magical place. Once back in Blossom Wood for another adventure they find that their friend Loulou the squirrel is organizing a talent show for all the animals.
The three cousins can't wait to help, but what's the matter with Loulou?
Can the Unicorns of Blossom Wood use their special powers to make Loulou happy again?
Girls will love these adventures, full of magic and sparkles and there are lots of games and quizzes in each book in the series.
Complete your "Unicorns of Blossom Wood" collection with the two latest titles, written by Catherine Coe and published by Scholastic - and out now!
From a mythical creature to an entirely real one...
Young Arthur is fed up. He's got a completely bizarre family, a brother from weirdsville and now a gigantic polar bear is standing on the doorstep, suitcase in hand, expecting to come and stay for a while. What on earth would you do?
This is how Arthur meets Mister P - the world's most helpful polar bear! Mister P could well be the answer to all Arthur's prayers, or a complete nightmare in bear form. Eeek!
The unlikely pair form a strong friendship, and sometimes there are times when only a polar bear will do!
Chock full of brilliant energetic illustrations, this is a funny and heartwarming tale of a very strange friendship.
"Me and Mister P" by Maria Farrer and Daniel Rieley is out now, published by Oxford Children's Books / OUP.
Sticking with OUP for a moment, another January publication that is very far from cute, cuddly and friendly. More like fiendly in fact!
In Hacker Murphy's "The Creeper Files - The Root of all Evil" with illustrations by Lucie Ebrey you'll meet ace investigator Hacker Murphy, curator of"The Creeper Files", detailing the nefarious activities of the most evil man/plant ever known.
Young Jake has a problem. There's something crazy and evil on the loose in his garden.
Jake's dog knows there's a problem: there's no way he's venturing outside on his own.
Jake's friends know there's a problem: who exactly is the strange entity lurking in their back gardens too?
Jake's mum has no idea there's a problem: she's a grown-up, you know what they're like.
Careful of what is growing beneath the soil, you'll never look at a plant (or a watering can) the same way ever again!
A perfect adventure romp and detective series kicks off in January. "The Creeper Files: The Root of All Evil" by Hacker Murphy and Lucie Ebrey is out now, published by Oxford Children's Books / OUP.
So what's next lurking at the bottom of our book bag?
We're coming into this series very late (well, at the end!) but here's a true modern epic to wrap your peepers around...
Kate O'Hearn's fantastic "Pegasus" series reaches its conclusion with book 6 - "Pegasus and the End of Olympus".
As you can probably tell from the title, the series draws to a cataclysmic close as Emily must once again return to earth to fulfil an ancient promise.
When she arrives, she is horrified to find that the nefarious CRU have taken more victims.
Emily has to investigate the nature of the CRU, uncovering a secret that once again leads her back to Titus and a final confrontation with Saturn that may be her last desperate act.
Likened to the "Percy Jackson" series, "Pegasus" similarly taps into ancient Greek mythology for an exciting and contemporary fantasy series with tons of excitement and adventure. Emily is a mighty girl to be reckoned with! "Pegasus and the End of Olympus" by Kate O'Hearn is out now, published by Hodder Children's Books. You can also catch up with the previous books in the series, also published by Hodder.
Next, more adventure and excitement for dice-throwers everywhere...
With the huge surge in popularity of fantasy role playing games, there's never been a better time to dive into a brilliant fantasy series that'll appeal to all Dungeons and Dragons nuts. David Grimstone's awesome "Outcasts" series picks up with Book 2 - "Thunderbolt" (following on from previous volume "The Game").
Jake (Dealmo) and his friends Kellogg, Lemon and Fatyak love nothing better than hurling the bones playing role playing games. But their board-based adventures are about to 'get real' in the most incredible way.
Armed with new superpowers, the friends are on a mission to stop a ruthless organisation from ruining the world.
This time, it's God of the Sky, Zeus's Thunderbolt they must save.
But will their superpowers be enough to win the battle ... and tame the storm?
If your kids are looking for a fantastic new fantasy series, look no further. Tight writing and interesting characters and situations make for a brilliant frenetic read.
"Outcasts Book 2: Thunderbolt" by David Grimstone is out now, published by Hodder Children's Books.
Book 3 of a fantastic dark and exciting series is up next...
"River of Ink - Genesis" (Book 1) by Helen Dennis is joined by "Zenith" (book 2) and now "Mortal" (book 3) continuing the illustrated narrative and high adventure of the series to date.
Once again we join Jed and Kassia on a frenzied flight across the world. Jed's life is in danger, he has exactly one year to complete a perilous quest or he will die. If he somehow manages to unravel his own mysterious past, he may join the immortals and live forever.
Now the friends know that Jed is the key to solving the mystery, the two flee to Istanbul to hunt for more clues, with deadly pursuers intent on stopping them at all costs.
As you can probably tell from the title, the series draws to a cataclysmic close as Emily must once again return to earth to fulfil an ancient promise.
When she arrives, she is horrified to find that the nefarious CRU have taken more victims.
Emily has to investigate the nature of the CRU, uncovering a secret that once again leads her back to Titus and a final confrontation with Saturn that may be her last desperate act.
Likened to the "Percy Jackson" series, "Pegasus" similarly taps into ancient Greek mythology for an exciting and contemporary fantasy series with tons of excitement and adventure. Emily is a mighty girl to be reckoned with! "Pegasus and the End of Olympus" by Kate O'Hearn is out now, published by Hodder Children's Books. You can also catch up with the previous books in the series, also published by Hodder.
Next, more adventure and excitement for dice-throwers everywhere...
Jake (Dealmo) and his friends Kellogg, Lemon and Fatyak love nothing better than hurling the bones playing role playing games. But their board-based adventures are about to 'get real' in the most incredible way.
Armed with new superpowers, the friends are on a mission to stop a ruthless organisation from ruining the world.
This time, it's God of the Sky, Zeus's Thunderbolt they must save.
But will their superpowers be enough to win the battle ... and tame the storm?
If your kids are looking for a fantastic new fantasy series, look no further. Tight writing and interesting characters and situations make for a brilliant frenetic read.
"Outcasts Book 2: Thunderbolt" by David Grimstone is out now, published by Hodder Children's Books.
Book 3 of a fantastic dark and exciting series is up next...
Once again we join Jed and Kassia on a frenzied flight across the world. Jed's life is in danger, he has exactly one year to complete a perilous quest or he will die. If he somehow manages to unravel his own mysterious past, he may join the immortals and live forever.
The third in an action-packed series full of adventure, this book has an illustrated narrative running through it, helping readers to solve the mystery alongside the characters in the story.
"River of Ink - Mortal" by Helen Dennis is out now, published by Hodder Children's Books.
YAY! The return of a fantastic hero next, and the follow-up to a book we both really enjoyed!
Curtis Jobling's teen hero Max Helsing is back, with a new beast to deal with. "Max Helsing and the Beast of Bone Creek" pits the would-be monster slayer against a new foe, as his holiday camping trip to Bone Creek goes downhill fast.
Trouble starts brewing when a slew of mysterious murders have Bigfoot hunters lining up, guns at the ready, itching to confront "The Beast".
Max's old enemy Abel Archer has also rolled into town, adamant that he's going to be the one to take the beast down.
Wildly exciting and original, like a cross between The X-Files, Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Percy Jackson, this is going to rock your world if you're into monsters, myths and mysteries!
"Max Helsing and the Beast of Bone Creek" by Curtis Jobling is out now, published by Orchard Books.
Slight change of tack now from huge slavering beasts to adorable cute little puppies...
Book 5 in Rosie Banks' "Secret Princesses" series is out, and this time they've brought puppies!
The animal-loving Secret Princess trainees, Charlotte and Mia, have to help Princess Ella get her wand back by granting four animal-related wishes.
Can they help Tessa complete puppy obedience school so that she can take her puppy on holiday with her family?
Or will Princess Poison and her pet, Crusher, spoil everything?
A special bumper length book that's actually not a bad starting point for new readers to the series who want to find out all about the magical world of the Secret Princesses.
"Secret Princesses - Puppy Magic" by Rosie Banks is out now, published by Orchard Publishing.
Finally, this one arrived with exquisite timing for our Chapter Book Roundup - as it's out today!
Joining the hallowed ranks of comedy writers who are turning their hand to writing children's books, Christian O'Connell's "Radio Boy" introduces Spike, an ordinary everyday kid who just happens to be a secret superstar DJ.
All is not well in Spike's world though - he becomes the first presenter ever to be sacked from hospital radio but radio stardom is addictive, so Spike decides to carry on from a makeshift studio in the garden shed.
Finally, this one arrived with exquisite timing for our Chapter Book Roundup - as it's out today!
All is not well in Spike's world though - he becomes the first presenter ever to be sacked from hospital radio but radio stardom is addictive, so Spike decides to carry on from a makeshift studio in the garden shed.
With the help of his best friends Artie and Holly, Spike becomes Radio Boy, disguising his voice and becoming a huge sensation as word gets round.
Soon Spike's motormouth gets him into trouble once again, and now the hunt is on for the mysterious Radio Boy!
Can Spike remain anonymous? Will he get to marry the girl of his dreams, Katherine Hamilton? Will he become famous and popular? The answer to most of these questions is no…but the answer to whether this is a hugely entertaining, funny and original book is a resounding YES!
Soon Spike's motormouth gets him into trouble once again, and now the hunt is on for the mysterious Radio Boy!
Can Spike remain anonymous? Will he get to marry the girl of his dreams, Katherine Hamilton? Will he become famous and popular? The answer to most of these questions is no…but the answer to whether this is a hugely entertaining, funny and original book is a resounding YES!
"Radio Boy" by Christian O'Connell with art by Rob Biddulph is out today, published by HarperCollins Children's Books.
If only Max could be like the hero in all the comics he likes to read – or the ones he draws – and magically escape the locker and defeat Thug.
Just time to quickly mention a book that came out in hardback last June but is now here in a gorgeous new paperback edition...
Rachel Renee Russell, fantastic author of "Dork Diaries" - a series that Charlotte absolutely loves to bits has a new dorky hero, this time it's a boy! "The Misadventures of Max Crumbly Locker Hero" sets the tone for a series of completely chaotic new stories featuring Max.
After being homeschooled by his Grandmother, Max is finally heading to 'real' school for the first time. But before long he’s starting to question that choice with the Doug aka Thug Thurston Problem.
After being homeschooled by his Grandmother, Max is finally heading to 'real' school for the first time. But before long he’s starting to question that choice with the Doug aka Thug Thurston Problem.
As in, Thug keeps stuffing Max in his locker! This never happened at Grandma's!
If only Max could be like the hero in all the comics he likes to read – or the ones he draws – and magically escape the locker and defeat Thug.
Unfortunately, Max’s uncanny, almost superhuman ability to smell pizza from a block away won’t exactly save any lives or foil bad guys. But that doesn’t mean Max won’t do his best to be the hero his school needs!
Rachel's writing is as entertaining as ever, and judging by the amount of time Charlotte has spent reading (and re-reading) this one, I think she's got another huge hit on her hands.
You can also check out the Max Crumbly book trailer below:
You can also check out the Max Crumbly book trailer below:
"The Misadventures of Max Crumbly" by Rachel Renee Russell is out now, published by Simon and Schuster Children's Books.
We'll be back next month with another chapter book roundup - in the meantime, if you're still hungry for more, catch up with our February Podcast and regular "Chapter Book of the Week" slots throughout the rest of 2017. Happy reading!
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