Showing posts with label Chapter Book Roundup 2018. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chapter Book Roundup 2018. Show all posts
Thursday, 29 November 2018
ReadItDaddy's Chapter Book Roundup - November 2018
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Chapter Book Roundup 2018
This month we've got a humungous list of books that we've been enjoying as the inevitable pre-christmas rush continues, starting with a hugely prolific author who seems to be able to turn her hand to just about every subject you can imagine.
"Evie's War" by Holly Webb is the heart-melting and poignant tale of a girl living at the time of the outbreak of the First World War.
Set in the gorgeous seaside town of Whitby, the story of Evie and her family begins with a terrible tragedy as Evie's beloved younger brother Alexander dies unexpectedly.
As Evie's mother and father struggle in their own ways to come to terms with their loss, Evie's older brother David distracts himself with the ever-growing threat of war and Evie and her sister Kitty find ways to keep their spirits up.
But when the threat of war turns into reality, David unexpectedly enlists in the army, Evie's mother is truly heartbroken. And as the family does their best to contribute to the war effort, they also struggle with the sacrifices each of them are forced to make.
Atmospheric, heart-wrenching, emotional and thoroughly absorbing, it's another brilliant story from a hugely talented author.
"Evie's War" by Holly Webb is out now, published by Scholastic.
More mighty girl awesomeness from our next book too...
I've a new-found respect for authors who write funny books for children. It's far harder than it sounds, so here's a gigglesome and quite adventurous new series from a debut author whose first "Shiny Pippin" book appeared back in February.
We're just playing catchup with "Shiny Pippin and the Broken Forest", an excellent introduction to a mighty girl character who is anything but ordinary.
But at first that's exactly how Pippin sees herself. Just an ordinary girl living with her granny in a fairly ordinary town called Funsprings.
It's the sort of ordinary little town where nothing extraordinary happens - well, until it does - and Pippin finds out that her diminutive little Granny isn't ordinary at all, in fact Granny used to be a crime fighter - and it looks like she and Pippin are about to take on a new case - investigating the curious case of drained water supplies and missing animals.
An exciting introduction to a madcap caper where nothing is quite as it seems, a story that gets its hooks into you right from the get-go serving up mystery and mirth in equal measure.
As Evie's mother and father struggle in their own ways to come to terms with their loss, Evie's older brother David distracts himself with the ever-growing threat of war and Evie and her sister Kitty find ways to keep their spirits up.
But when the threat of war turns into reality, David unexpectedly enlists in the army, Evie's mother is truly heartbroken. And as the family does their best to contribute to the war effort, they also struggle with the sacrifices each of them are forced to make.
Atmospheric, heart-wrenching, emotional and thoroughly absorbing, it's another brilliant story from a hugely talented author.
"Evie's War" by Holly Webb is out now, published by Scholastic.
More mighty girl awesomeness from our next book too...
Matilda Woods' gorgeous stories are always a treat, and she's back with a tale that's perfect as the wintry weather bites deep.
"The Girl, The Cat and the Navigator" is an enchanting and atmospheric story of bravery on the ice-tipped ocean.
Oona Bright is curious, and always wants to learn more about her world. She's as sharp as a pin, and daydreams of perhaps one day setting sail across the ocean with her father, a ship's captain who has braved the briny deep many times.
Oona has read many mythical stories of a magical creature - the Nardoo - who swims through the stars at night. Restless and impatient, Oona stows away on whaling boat called the Plucky Leopard for an adventure full of myths and marvel among the icebergs and frozen waves.
Full of adventure and a whopping great big heart, reminiscent of the excitement of the "Little Tim" stories with a girl protagonist who embodies all the qualities we love to see in our main characters, Oona really is amazing and brave.
"The Girl, The Cat and the Navigator" by Matilda Woods is out now, published by Scholastic.
On the centenary of the end of World War 1, there have been quite a few books on the subject - including our next title...
"The Button War" by Avi, with illustrations and cover by David Dean once again tackles the subject of how ordinary children were affected by the outbreak of war, and sometimes how divisions began to materialise within communities as to which side was good and which side was evil.
Twelve-year-old Patryk has never left his Polish village and doesn’t know much about the outside world. Then one August, with the clatter-clatter of an aeroplane, the Great War explodes into his village.
As the Germans and Russians fight for control, Patryk and his friends begin their own battle to find the best military button. It starts as a dare, but soon the boys find themselves trapped in a dangerous war.
Just how far are they prepared to go to win?
Twelve-year-old Patryk has never left his Polish village and doesn’t know much about the outside world. Then one August, with the clatter-clatter of an aeroplane, the Great War explodes into his village.
As the Germans and Russians fight for control, Patryk and his friends begin their own battle to find the best military button. It starts as a dare, but soon the boys find themselves trapped in a dangerous war.
Just how far are they prepared to go to win?
Reminiscent of the excellent "The Machine Gunners", this is a powerful tale.
"The Button War" by Avi and David Dean is out now, published by Walker Books.
We're just playing catchup with "Shiny Pippin and the Broken Forest", an excellent introduction to a mighty girl character who is anything but ordinary.
But at first that's exactly how Pippin sees herself. Just an ordinary girl living with her granny in a fairly ordinary town called Funsprings.
It's the sort of ordinary little town where nothing extraordinary happens - well, until it does - and Pippin finds out that her diminutive little Granny isn't ordinary at all, in fact Granny used to be a crime fighter - and it looks like she and Pippin are about to take on a new case - investigating the curious case of drained water supplies and missing animals.
An exciting introduction to a madcap caper where nothing is quite as it seems, a story that gets its hooks into you right from the get-go serving up mystery and mirth in equal measure.
"Shiny Pippin and the Broken Forest" by Harry Heape with illustrations from Rebecca Bagley is out now, published by Faber and Faber.
If the first adventure whetted your appetite, then there's also "Shiny Pippin and the Monkey Burglars" again by Harry with illustrations by Rebecca Bagley.
This time there's a twisty-turny mystery involving expertly prepared snacks, a host of miscreant animals, a love story and some truly cringe-making (but hilariously funny) poetry as Pippin embarks on her second case with an all new detective agency righting wrongs and chasing down ne-er do wells in the sleepy town of Funsprings.
We wish we'd picked this up over the summer as it's a breezy sunshiney read perfect for sprawling out on the beach with. Never mind though, curl up in a warm blanket next to your favourite heat source and soak up Harry's brilliant chaotic sense of humour in this second excellent book in the "Shiny Pippin" series, which is fast becoming one of C's fave series of the year so far.
"Shiny Pippin and the Monkey Burglars" by Harry Heape and Rebecca Bagley is out now, published by Faber and Faber
Forget Doctor Dolittle, our next hero definitely has the gift of the gab when it comes to all the animals he meets.
"Zoo Boy" by Sophie Thompson and Rebecca Ashdown is the story of young Vince, who suddenly realises he has that particular very special gift quite by accident.
The problem is, Vince really can't stand animals. Dad works at a zoo (unfortunate) and Mum has run off with a lion tamer (owchies!)
But on his 8th birthday Vince's life changes forever. He discovers he has "the gift" and really wishes he hadn't. If you think humans have a whole raft of 'issues' then that's nothing compared to demanding penguins, primadonna flamingos and picky-eater owls.
They won't rest until Vince does their every bidding - when all the poor lad wants is an ordinary birthday with cake, presents and perhaps even a smidge of mum and dad's time perhaps?
This is a brilliantly observed story from Sophie, with a truly relatable central character who'd do anything for an ordinary life and perhaps even a bit of peace and quiet now and again!
"Zoo Boy" by Sophie Thompson and Rebecca Ashdown is out now, published by Faber and Faber.
...and if the first book rocked your world, there's also "Zoo Boy and the Jewel Thieves" by Sophie Thompson and Rebecca Ashdown.
Once again poor Vince is dashing around all over the zoo, trying to meet the demands of the picky and annoying animals who constantly clamour for his attention (and snacks).
But there's a criminal on the loose - so Vince, aided by his furry, feathery and fuzzy animal sidekicks - must track down the ne-er do well before any more valuables go missing.
Will they be able to reveal the secret identity of the daring jewel thief?
There's a delicious twist to this second adventure from Sophie and Rebecca, perfect for kids who love completely madcap off-the-wall humour (and of course cute and sometimes thoroughly annoying animals).
"Zoo Boy and the Jewel Thieves" by Sophie Thompson and Rebecca Ashdown is out now, published by Faber and Faber.
We're huge fans of Astrid Lindgren and also of Studio Ghibli's sublime animated features. The studio has recently taken Astrid's amazing stories and turned them into an utterly peerless animated series for Amazon Prime.
This new paperback edition is illustrated with black and white artwork based on the series throughout, so it's a real treat.
Ronja is the wayward and strong-minded daughter of the robber chieftain.
She lives an idyllic existence, roaming the forest and hunting, fishing and having adventures - but she must always beware of the grey dwarves and wild harpies who live in the deepest darkest glades of the forest's depths.
When she befriends Birk, the son of her father's greatest enemy, it causes uproar. Ronja and Birk can no longer be friends . . . unless they do something drastic. Like running away . . .
Suddenly they are fending for themselves in the woods, but how will they survive when winter comes? And will Ronja's father ever accept her friendship with Birk so they can go home?
It's easy to see why Ghibli were attracted to the original stories, with so much depth and sublime fantasy elements that loan themselves really well to Ghibli's cinematic story telling. The book is, of course, an absolute pleasure to re-read with the new illustrations. This really is something very special indeed.
"Ronja the Robber's Daughter" by Astrid Lindgren, illustrated by Studio Ghibli / Katsura Kondo is out now, published by OUP / Oxford Children's Books.
Just in time to go on your christmas lists is a new fantastic compilation from Enid Blyton.
Collecting together a massive selection of Enid's short stories from magazines and periodicals, "A Treasury of Bedtime Stories" (with illustrations from Becky Cameron) truly has something for everyone.
This glorious new hardback edition contains over 300 pages of beautifully illustrated short stories to read and share at bedtime.
Each short story stands alone and takes the reader on a brand-new adventure. From the pixie seamstress who makes dresses for the Fairy Queen, to the little boy who turns into a steam engine, meet a host of magic and memorable characters, brought to life by Becky Cameron's charming illustrations.
It's a weighty tome but absolutely perfect if your little ones love stories that can be gobbled down greedily in one sitting (absolutely the best way, of course!)
"A Treasury of Bedtime Stories" by Enid Blyton and Becky Cameron is out now, published by Hodder Children's Books.
It's the return of a decidedly strange (but good-hearted) duo now, Clare Elsom's next book in her fantastic "Horace and Harriet" series.
In "Horace and Harriet: Friends, Romans, Statues" Lord Commander Horatio Frederick Wallington Nincompoop Maximus Pimpleberry the Third (or Horace, for short) has been a statue on a plinth in Princes Park for hundreds of years.
But now he's friends with Harriet and every time he leaves his pedestal he's ready for all sorts of adventures!
This time the two meet up in Rome where Horace poses as a gladiator, impresses as a statue, and is reunited with a long-lost relative.
Packed with splendiferous pictures this is a rollicking read for children of five and up who love a good time-hopping mystery, and a crazy cast of characters.
We really love Clare's illustrations for the book too, a real treat!
"Horace and Harriet: Friends, Romans, Statues" by Clare Elsom is out now, published by OUP / Oxford Children's Books.
Our next book is something quite unique, heartbreakingly honest and thought-provoking. In fact I don't think we've ever read anything quite like this.
"Child I" by Steve Tasane is an all-too-real account of what life is like for children when they're incarcerated in refugee camps.
The story concerns a group of undocumented children with letters for names who are living life in limbo at one refugee camp, with stories to tell but no papers or 'official' documentation to prove them.
As they try to forge a new family amongst themselves, they also long to keep memories of their old identities alive.
Will they be heard and believed? And what will happen to them if they aren't?
An astonishing piece of writing that will enchant and intrigue children; perfectly pitched at a 9+ readership - dealing with a very strong subject matter in a way that children will take to almost immediately, increasing their empathy, knowledge and hopefully understanding. Truly something really special, this one.
An astonishing piece of writing that will enchant and intrigue children; perfectly pitched at a 9+ readership - dealing with a very strong subject matter in a way that children will take to almost immediately, increasing their empathy, knowledge and hopefully understanding. Truly something really special, this one.
"Child I" by Steve Tasane is out now, published by Faber and Faber.
Last but not least in our Chapter Book Roundups for 2018 is a story that follows on from one of the greatest works of children's fiction of the 20th Century.
Edit "E" Nesbit's sublime "Five Children and It" has an official sequel in the form of Kate Saunder's brilliant Costa Book Award winning "Five Children on the Western Front".
The story opens on the eve of the First World War, and is particularly poignant in this centenary year of the end of hostilities. The five children have grown up - war will change their lives for ever.Cyril is off to fight, Anthea is at art college, Robert is a Cambridge scholar and Jane is at high school.
The Lamb is the grown up age of 11, and he has a little sister, Edith, in tow.
The sand fairy has become a creature of stories ... until he suddenly reappears. The siblings are pleased to have something to take their minds off the war, but this time the Psammead is here for a reason, and his magic might have a more serious purpose.
Before this last adventure ends, all will be changed, and the two younger children will have seen the Great War from every possible viewpoint - factory-workers, soldiers and sailors, nurses and the people left at home, and the war's impact will be felt right at the heart of their family.
Kate picks up from where Nesbit leaves off with an absolutely brilliant eye for how the characters would evolve and change as adults, and how the shadow of war will impact them all. Make sure you've got plenty of tissues towards the end of this one though, fair warning!
Before this last adventure ends, all will be changed, and the two younger children will have seen the Great War from every possible viewpoint - factory-workers, soldiers and sailors, nurses and the people left at home, and the war's impact will be felt right at the heart of their family.
Kate picks up from where Nesbit leaves off with an absolutely brilliant eye for how the characters would evolve and change as adults, and how the shadow of war will impact them all. Make sure you've got plenty of tissues towards the end of this one though, fair warning!
"Five Children on the Western Front" by Kate Saunders with an all-new cover by David Dean is out now, published by Faber and Faber.
More magical adveturing in a fantastic new book that was gobbled up super-quick by C...
"Unicorn Girl" by Anne-Marie Conway could almost have been written specifically for her. She's unashamedly in love with Unicorns (in fact the only thing better than a Unicorn is a Llamacorn - a cross between a Llama and a Unicorn) but let's take a closer look at this gorgeous and heart-warming story.
Ariella loves her grandmother very much, but when Granny Rae dies, she leaves behind a family heirloom, a precious Unicorn charm.
As Ariella slowly comes to terms with the loss of her beloved grandmother, something very strange and magical happens. As she looks out of her window one day she spies a Unicorn, a real actual real-life Unicorn, standing in the field at the bottom of her garden.
When Ariella goes to investigate, she knows she's made a brand new friend. This gangly-legged rather scruffy Unicorn is named Albert - who seems to see right into Ariella's soul with his piercing violet eyes.
Soon Ariella spends as much time with Albert as possible, and he becomes her most trusted secret keeper as Ariella copes with all the normal everyday stuff girls have to put up with, from starting a new school or making a wish that Albert could somehow repair her baby brother's hole-in-the-heart.
Ariella also realises that her new friend is an outsider himself, and might need her help just as much as she needs his. So their friendship becomes strong, but it's a friendship that cannot possibly last forever - or can it?
C told me that anyone reading this might be ugly crying with happiness / sadness by the end of the book so consider yourself suitably forewarned.
"Unicorn Girl" by Anne-Marie Conway is out now, published by Silverwood Books.
Last but not least, squeezed in at the last moment purely because it's just come out, is the fantastic "Wundersmith: The Calling of Morrigan Crow" by Jessica Townsend.
Catching up after the cataclysmic events of the first Nevermoor Wundersmith book, Morrigan has escaped her cursed life in Jackalfax to join the Wundrous society. For the first time ever Morrigan feels protected, welcomed and has a sense of belonging, all the things she's sought her whole life.
But there's a catch - the welcome is less than warm, and Morrigan Crow realises that being an all-powerful Wundersmith comes with the stigma of being feared as truly evil.
Can she rein in her power enough to convince her new friends that her powers can be used for good?
It's taut storytelling with a nice lick of dark humour here and there, and some utterly magical moments of triumph - but be ready for a real whump in the guts at the end of this one, and a bit of a wait until book 3 (which we're absolutely all-in for!)
"Wundersmith: The Calling of Morrigan Crow" by Jessica Townsend is out now, published by Orion Childrens Books.
More magical adveturing in a fantastic new book that was gobbled up super-quick by C...
Ariella loves her grandmother very much, but when Granny Rae dies, she leaves behind a family heirloom, a precious Unicorn charm.
As Ariella slowly comes to terms with the loss of her beloved grandmother, something very strange and magical happens. As she looks out of her window one day she spies a Unicorn, a real actual real-life Unicorn, standing in the field at the bottom of her garden.
When Ariella goes to investigate, she knows she's made a brand new friend. This gangly-legged rather scruffy Unicorn is named Albert - who seems to see right into Ariella's soul with his piercing violet eyes.
Soon Ariella spends as much time with Albert as possible, and he becomes her most trusted secret keeper as Ariella copes with all the normal everyday stuff girls have to put up with, from starting a new school or making a wish that Albert could somehow repair her baby brother's hole-in-the-heart.
Ariella also realises that her new friend is an outsider himself, and might need her help just as much as she needs his. So their friendship becomes strong, but it's a friendship that cannot possibly last forever - or can it?
C told me that anyone reading this might be ugly crying with happiness / sadness by the end of the book so consider yourself suitably forewarned.
"Unicorn Girl" by Anne-Marie Conway is out now, published by Silverwood Books.
Catching up after the cataclysmic events of the first Nevermoor Wundersmith book, Morrigan has escaped her cursed life in Jackalfax to join the Wundrous society. For the first time ever Morrigan feels protected, welcomed and has a sense of belonging, all the things she's sought her whole life.
But there's a catch - the welcome is less than warm, and Morrigan Crow realises that being an all-powerful Wundersmith comes with the stigma of being feared as truly evil.
Can she rein in her power enough to convince her new friends that her powers can be used for good?
It's taut storytelling with a nice lick of dark humour here and there, and some utterly magical moments of triumph - but be ready for a real whump in the guts at the end of this one, and a bit of a wait until book 3 (which we're absolutely all-in for!)
"Wundersmith: The Calling of Morrigan Crow" by Jessica Townsend is out now, published by Orion Childrens Books.
(All books kindly supplied for review).
And that's it for 2018's Chapter Book Roundups. I think we ended with a brilliant selection, don't you agree?
We will resume our Chapter Book Roundups in January 2019 - and until then you can keep up with all the very best chapter books in our "Chapter Book of the Week" slots. See you there!
Wednesday, 29 August 2018
ReadItDaddy's Chapter Book Roundup - August 2018
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Chapter Book Roundup 2018
Kicking off with a real waggy tale from Heidi Lang. "Rules of the Ruff" is a perfect summer read for poochy pals who adore all things snuffly, wet nosed and doggy.
Twelve-year-old Jessie is in for a long summer at her aunt and uncle’s house.
Her cousin Ann has a snotty new best friend, which leaves Jessie all alone.
But Jessie is industrious, and―not content with being ignored all summer―she convinces Wes, a grouchy neighborhood dog walker, to take her on as his apprentice.
Sure, dog walking turns out to be harder than she expected, but she has Wes’s dog-walking code, the Rules of the Ruff, to guide her, and soon she’s wrangling her very own pack.
But when a charismatic rival dog walker moves to town, she quickly snatches up most of Wes’s business―and Jessie decides she isn’t going to take this defeat with her tail between her legs. So begins a battle royale to be top dog in more ways than one!
C blitzed through this one in double-quick time, loving the mix of gentle humour and doggy antics - and of course some brilliantly well-observed scenes of what it's like when you're the poor human charged with looking after a bunch of unruly canines.
"Rules of the Ruff" by Heidi Lang is out now, published by Abrams.
Another perfect summer read now, particularly for kids who have spent summer with their besties.
Meet "Miranda and Maude: The Princess and The 'absolutely NOT a princess" by Emma Wunsch and Jessika Von Innerebner.
Princess Miranda does not want to go to school. She wants to shoe shop, plan parties, and decorate the castle.
Maude on the other hand doesn't hold any truck with all that frothy stuff. She loves books, loves using her brain and loves inventing and roller skating. How can the two possibly ever get on and become the best of friends?
Well, sometimes friendship is found in the most unlikely places...
Unashamedly a book with colossal girl appeal, but with some truly awesome and wry nods that might convince 'princessy' types that there are more awesome ways to be a mighty girl than looking drop dead gorgeous.
"Miranda and Maude: The Princess and the 'absolutely NOT a princess" by Emma Wunsch and Jessika Von Innerebner is out now, published by Abrams.
Next there's a mystery to solve - but it might be a bit too much for one amateur sleuth...
So when there's a burglary near his home and the police are hunting for suspects, they seem to be very interested in Dan for some reason due to his proximity to the crime! ARGH!
With his friends Freddo and Gordon the Geek, Dan has no choice but to turn detective himself to clear his name.
Will the three hapless friends be able to crack the crime - or will their crazy antics make them ALL suspects?
Madcap humour, awesome illustrations and a ton of squidgy gags, this is a brilliant series from Jo Franklin.
"Help I'm a Detective" is published by Troika, and is out now.
Next, a brilliant new book from Linda Chapman and Lucy Fleming in the awesome mighty girl "Star Friends" series.
"Star Friends: Night Shade" is a nocturnal adventure featuring the awesome Star Animals and their human companions.
Ever since Maia and her friends stopped Auntie Mabel from using dark magic to cause trouble in the small seaside village of Westcombe, life has been peaceful for the girls and their Star Animals. But it seems that peace was only temporary and the girls are going to have to use all their Star Magic skills to battle against the latest threat…
Perfect for fans of My Secret Unicorn and The Rescue Princesses, and for Rainbow Magic readers looking to move on to a more challenging adventure.
"Star Friends: Night Shade" by Linda Chapman and Lucy Fleming is out now, published by Stripes.
Next, a new book from an amazingly prolific author, part of a fantastic magical series of books for older middle grade readers.
"The Hounds of Penhallow Hall: The Secrets Tree" is the latest in Holly Webb's awesome "Penhallow Hall" series from Stripes Publishing. This series pays homage to classic children's ghost stories of the 70s and 80s in a whole new canine set of adventures with a difference. Meet the ghost dogs!
Down in the old stable block they come across a dog’s head carved in a wooden door and wake a terrier called Patch. The little dog is terrified of the changes to his old home and runs off.
When Polly and Rex find Patch hiding in a hollow tree they find themselves on the trail of an even greater mystery. Inside the tree is a coded message from Patch’s master, Jack, to his older brother.
From Patch’s description Polly and Rex realize that Jack’s brother must have been a highwayman! But the message remains unread. Can Polly and Rex discover what happened to the brothers?
Tense, exciting and wholly original, leaving you breathless with almost every turn of the page, this is a brilliant series so if it's new to you, this is a great jumping-in point to introduce yourselves to these amazing spectral hounds and their mighty-girl ally. Honestly, we don't know how Holly does it but we're so glad she does, this is fantastic stuff!
"The Hounds of Penhallow Hall: The Secrets Tree" by Holly Webb with awesome illustrations from Jason Cockroft is out now, published by Stripes Publishing.
In fact, there's more from Holly next in a real switch of gears - and an awesome series based around a school for the performing arts.
"Shine: Chloe Centre Stage" by Holly Webb is the latest in her sparkling series of dance, drama, dreams and friendship.
Getting into the Shine School for Performing Arts is a dream come true for Chloe – she’ll be taking classes in dance and drama everyday and surrounded by people just as passionate as she is!
But while the talented and extroverted Chloe was the star at her old school, at Shine it’s much harder to stand out.
Although the other girls in her year seem nice, she finds it trickier to make real friends than she’d expected too.
Chloe starts to mess around in class and finally finds herself the centre of attention – but for all the wrong reasons. And when a prank goes wrong rumours that she is about to be expelled begin to fly. Can Chloe turn things around before it’s too late?
Getting into the Shine School for Performing Arts is a dream come true for Chloe – she’ll be taking classes in dance and drama everyday and surrounded by people just as passionate as she is!
But while the talented and extroverted Chloe was the star at her old school, at Shine it’s much harder to stand out.
Although the other girls in her year seem nice, she finds it trickier to make real friends than she’d expected too.
Chloe starts to mess around in class and finally finds herself the centre of attention – but for all the wrong reasons. And when a prank goes wrong rumours that she is about to be expelled begin to fly. Can Chloe turn things around before it’s too late?
This is perfect stuff for C, who has had her own summer of dance and drama in various workshops during summer clubs, and the bits about fitting in and making new friends really struck a chord with her.
Fab illustrations from Monique Dong really round these brilliant books off.
"Shine: Chloe Centre Stage" by Holly Webb and Monique Dong is out now, published by Stripes.
Animal antics next, and a book that will have you scratching your head at least once - as it features some pretty pesky pests..
"Invasion of the Giant Nits" from Gareth P. Jones and Steve May is the latest in the "Pet Defenders" series from Stripes Publishing.
Biskit and Mitzy are confronted by a large alien spider who plans to destroy the planet.
Worse, she has an army of nits that she can enlarge with a blast from her own invention: the Relativisor.
She can also shrink things with it – and suddenly Mitzy is the size of a louse clinging to Biskit’s head.
Can the Pet Defenders stop the nits ripping the Earth apart? It’s a head-scratcher for sure!
A wildly funny series, perfect for kids who are just getting up to speed with their reading and dipping into chapter books for the first time. It's frenetic, fast paced animal action with brilliantly paced writing and awesome (itch-inducing) illustrations from Steve May.
"Pet Defenders: Invasion of the Giant Nits" by Gareth P. Jones and Steve May is out now, published by Stripes.
Next, a series that's become an instant hit with C, who loves a bit of school-based mayhem
St Grizzle's School for Girls: Gremlins and Pesky Guests" by Karen McCombie and Becka Moor is a fantastic series for kids who love books like "Murder Most Unladylike" or even "Malory Towers".
When a flood closes the village school, Lulu invites the staff and pupils to come and join them at St Grizzle’s. Dani and her friends can’t believe their bad luck – it was awful enough bumping into Spencer and his cronies in the village but now they’ve got to share lessons with them.
St Grizzle's School for Girls: Gremlins and Pesky Guests" by Karen McCombie and Becka Moor is a fantastic series for kids who love books like "Murder Most Unladylike" or even "Malory Towers".
When a flood closes the village school, Lulu invites the staff and pupils to come and join them at St Grizzle’s. Dani and her friends can’t believe their bad luck – it was awful enough bumping into Spencer and his cronies in the village but now they’ve got to share lessons with them.
Before long pupils are clashing with pupils, there are pranks aplenty and even the teachers aren’t getting along.
Rehearsals get underway for the school show but with tempers fraying it’s soon looking like a big failure.
Determined that the show will go on, Lulu calls on Dani and co, as the oldest children in the school, to set a good example and make friends. But with Spencer up to his usual tricks, can the two rival groups put aside their differences long enough to turn a disaster into a triumph?
C loved this book, and found plenty of things in it that had her nodding her head (silly boys showing off, awesome girls trying to get things sorted!) but it's a great book for both girls and boys who love a bit of school-based mayhem.
"St Grizzle's School for Girls: Gremlins and Pesky Guests" by Karen McCombie and Becka Moor is out now, published by Stripes.
We're on the home stretch now, but don't run away just yet, there are a few more books in our reviews sack so let's dig in...
Next it's the return of Tony De Saulles' awesome stripy superhero in "Bee Boy: Attack of the Zombees".
When a strange sickness bug strikes at school, Mel has his suspicions - could this have something to do with the new kid, Berty Crump?
More questions arise when Mel and his bees discover a factory in the woods with giant flowers, chemical spraying drones, beekeepers in metal suits, and worse of all . . . ZOMBEEZ!
The highly entertaining story of an unlikely superhero, full of fantastic bee facts, and illustrated in black and yellow! Perfect for kids who love a story laced with a strong eco message on the importance of bees as a species, but full of fun and drama to keep you totally locked into this fantastic story until the (stingy) end.
"Bee Boy: Attack of the Zombees" by Tony De Saulles is out now, published by OUP / Oxford Children's Books.
Another fantastic series now from OUP, and the return of a favourite character.
"The Night Zoo Keeper: The Lioness of Fire Desert" is the latest in Joshua Davidson and Giles Clare's awesome animal-based series, featuring illustrations from Buzz Burman.
Joined by his friends, Sam and Riya, Will journeys to Fire Desert, where rumours of a creature called 'the Grip' have struck fear into the hearts of the animals.
Even normally brave Captain Claw, a fierce lioness, seems to be acting strangely on hearing the news.
The animals look to Will to save them, but does he have the strength to overcome his fears, and become the hero that the Night Zoo needs? He's definitely going to need some help this time for his trickiest adventure yet.
Hugely original, brilliantly tense and with tons and tons of animal appeal, this is a great series for younger readers who love learning about different species, but also love high adventure and mystery.
"Night Zoo Keeper: The Lioness of Fire Desert" by Joshua Davidson, Giles Clare and Buzz Burman is out now, published by OUP / Oxford Children's Books.
A real wow of an adventure next for five plucky kids who join "The Mapmaker's Race", a fantastic new fantasy title from Eirlys Hunter.
The race is on for a globe-trotting adventure as five children each set out on a journey to complete a challenge that stretches right around the earth.
Perils await, as each picks a path through uncharted territories facing personal challenges and extreme conditions in ice, snow, desert and jungle.
A perfect title for kids who love learning all about explorers or pioneering, learning about new cultures and countries or just folk like us who are totally obsessed with atlases and maps.
"The Mapmaker's Race" by Eirlys Hunter is out now, published by Gecko Press.
Last but by no means least, a real epic from an author whose work just completely blows us away.
Award-winning author Piers Torday is back with a fantastic new fantasy adventure.
"The Lost Magician" begins at the end of the Second World War. It's 1945. They have survived the Blitz, but when Simon, Patricia, Evelyn and Larry step through a mysterious library door, it is the beginning of their most dangerous adventure yet.
They discover the magical world of Folio, where an enchanted kingdom of fairy knights, bears and tree gods is under threat from a sinister robot army.
The many stories of the Library are locked in eternal war, and the children's only hope is to find their creator - a magician who has been lost for centuries.
What they find will change not just their own lives, but the fate of the world forever.
The many stories of the Library are locked in eternal war, and the children's only hope is to find their creator - a magician who has been lost for centuries.
What they find will change not just their own lives, but the fate of the world forever.
Paying homage to children's literary classics like The Chronicles of Narnia and The Wizard of Oz, Piers' worldbuilding is utterly superb, and the mix of dark fantasy and clanky technology in this really breathes a huge breath of fresh air into the fantasy genre. Last year we all thrilled to the return to Philip Pullman's Dark Materials world, this year it's all about "The Lost Magician" without a doubt.
"The Lost Magician" by Piers Torday is out on 6th September 2018, published by Quercus.
PHEW! We'll be back in September, you'll be back at school but we'll be hard at work to bring you the very best in chapter fiction. See you then!
Thursday, 26 July 2018
ReaditDaddy's Chapter Book Roundup: July 2018
Labels:
Chapter Book Roundup 2018
"Bone's Gift" by Angie Simbert follows the recent trend for spooky and dark middle grade adventures with the tale of 12 year old Bone.
Bone has an exceptional supernatural gift. She can sense the stories in everyday objects.
When she receives a note that says her mother's Gift killed her, Bone seeks to unravel the mysteries of her mother's death, the schisms in her family, and the Gifts themselves.
It's a tightly woven mystery that plays its cards pretty close to its chest from the outset, before twisting deliciously in on itself to deliver a breathtaking finale. We are hoping that this is just the first book in a series from Angie, it's really fantastic and original stuff with an exquisite coat of darkness about it.
"Bone's Gift" by Angie Simbert is out now, published by Highlights Publishing.
Yep, it's time for more fun with "Cici Reno: #MiddleSchoolMatchmaker".
Middle school is a test, but Cici has ALL the answers.
She's the go-to girl for advice: cool, funny and enlightened (thanks to her mums yoga classes).
So when her pretty BFF is too shy to speak to the boy she has a crush on, Cici goes online and does the talking for her.
Then Cici starts to fall for him herself! For the first time ever, she doesnt have a clue.
With a rather nifty twist on the classic "Cyrano De Bergerac" this is middle grade awesomeness for girls like C who already adore series like "Dork Diaries" or "Diary of a Wimpy Kid".
"Cici Reno: #MiddleSchoolMatchmaker" by Kristina Springer is out now, published by Sterling Publishing.
Next, something sizzlingly original yet with a core message and voice that middle graders will readily be able to identify with.
"Bone Talk" by Candy Gourlay has to have one of the most original settings we've seen in a middle grade novel.
Set in the Phillipine jungle at the end of the 19th Century, it's the story of Samkad - a boy who lives in a tribe deep in the jungle, a tribe that has never encountered anyone from outside before.
"Bone Talk" by Candy Gourlay has to have one of the most original settings we've seen in a middle grade novel.
Set in the Phillipine jungle at the end of the 19th Century, it's the story of Samkad - a boy who lives in a tribe deep in the jungle, a tribe that has never encountered anyone from outside before.
Samkad is about to embark on the rites of passage in his tribe in order to become a man, and while he's desperate to grow up, he's worried that this will take him away from his best friend, Little Luki.
However, Samkad's world is about to change utterly.
A strange man with white skin arrives in his village, and Samkad discovers the brother he never knew he had. A brother who tells him of people called `Americans'. Americans who are bringing war, and burning, to Samuel's home.
Written in Candy's effortless and gritty style and weaving an amazing story of an indigenous population struggling to maintain a way of life that they have enjoyed for thousands of years against the onslaught from 'civilisation', this is absolutely gripping stuff.
"Bone Talk" by Candy Gourlay is out on the 2nd August 2018, published by David Fickling Books.
More scintillating fantasy now with a tale tinged with darkness and mystery.
"The Price of Magic" by Gavin Neale introduces Abby and her brother Chris who moved house four summers ago, discovered that magic exists, met a pair of witches that lived down the road and carried out a heroic rescue of their mother from the Land of Fairy.
But despite the discovery of their own magical talents, the memories of those events are beginning to fade. And even Abby, who gave up her magic to save her mother and carries the scars of a ghost sabre tooth tiger, is forgetting that eventful summer.
Then, while Chris is away and Abby is helping the witches during the Easter holidays, the Queen of the Land of Fairy comes back into Abby's life, looking for help. But can she be trusted?
Even though the witches try to protect her, Abby gets drawn into events with frightening consequences. She must face the results of what happened to her in the Land of Fairy, rescue her neighbour, and stop a magical war.
That's a lot of pressure for an eleven-year-old girl, even with a warrior's soul, but magic always has a price and a warrior's work is seldom done.
As readers begin to unlock her eventual fate, this is truly Abby's story - a fantasy novel that doesn't dumb things down for kids with inquisitive minds and perhaps even a smidge of a belief in magic themselves. Awesome stuff.
"The Price of Magic" by Gavin Neale is out now, published by Matador.
More from a series we've absolutely loved to bits on the blog with the third book in Jennifer Bell's fabulous "The Uncommoners" series, with awesome covers by Karl James Mountford.
"The Frozen Telescope" picks up the adventures of Ivy, Valian and Seb right after "The Smoking Hourglass". Ivy, Seb and Valian think they've vanquished their enemies, and those of Lundinor, forever.
It turns out their adventure was only just beginning . . .
Ivy and Seb can't wait to join Valian for their first ever overseas uncommon adventure - they're meeting in Nubrook, the completely astonishing and totally-different-to-Ludinor trading market hidden underneath New York.
But there's no time to enjoy looking round all the incredible sights - they're on a mission to find Valian's long-lost sister, Rosie.
But it seems they're not the only ones looking for her.
Once again the Dirge rear their terrifying heads, and it appears they're after not only Rosie, but another enormously powerful Great Uncommon Good object. But what do they want it for? And can Ivy, Seb and Valianstop them from finding it?
Another rip-roaring adventure with a frenetic pace and a ton of originality.
"The Uncommoners: The Frozen Telescope" by Jennifer Bell and Karl James Mountford is out now, published by Corgi Children's Books.
Something for older readers now as Tom and Giovanna Fletcher combine their amazing writing talents for a book for YA readers.
"Eve of Man" begins an eventual trilogy featuring teenager Eve.
Eve is like any other teenage girl. Except that the fate of the entire world lies on her shoulders.
She's the first girl born in fifty years.
She's the answer to their prayers.
She's the final hope.
Which means she has one function alone . . .
At sixteen, Eve must face her destiny and make a choice.
She will choose a man, one out of three carefully selected suitors.
But what about Bram? The man she truly loves?
The future of the planet hangs on Eve making the right choice but it's a lot to lump onto someone's shoulders. Will Eve choose love or the future of the human race?
It's a breathtaking dystopian debut for this writing team who have both enjoyed massive success in their own separate publishing careers. Tautly written and page-turningly tense, you'll be crying out for the sequel by the end.
"Eve of Man" by Tom and Giovanna Fletcher is out now, published by Michael Joseph Books.
More for older readers now with a breathtaking new novel from Karen McManus.
In "One of us is Lying" five distinctly different students are sent to detention.
Shockingly only four leave alive.
Yale hopeful Bronwyn has never publicly broken a rule and is considered to be a goody two-shoes.
Sports star Cooper only knows what he's doing in the baseball diamond. Short on brains and guile, how can Cooper concoct a conspiracy so complex?
Bad boy Nate is one misstep away from a life of crime. The black sheep of the family, and a prime suspect in the death - but is his guilt as cut and dried as it seems?
Prom queen Addy is holding together the cracks in her perfect life. Secrets and lies have always bubbled away in her background so why would anyone trust her word now?
And outsider Simon, creator of the notorious gossip app at Bayview High, won't ever talk about any of them again. Each has a motive for Simon's death - 24 hours before his big reveal of their deepest darkest secrets online.
Four suspects, mixed messages, alibis and stories that don't stack up. But who's the culprit?
This is an utterly gripping YA read from an author who can weave a complex and immersive tale with seemingly consummate ease.
"One of Us is Lying" by Karen M. McManus is out now, published by Penguin Books.
Eerily along similar lines to our last book, here's "The Smoke Thieves" by Sally Green. This time it's a YA fantasy read with a well-tuned and gorgeously written story of a Princess, a Soldier, A Hunter, a Traitor and a Thief.
These five teenagers may hold the fate of the world in their hands, as their five nations engage in a gigantic conflict.
In Brigant, Princess Catherine prepares for a political marriage arranged by her brutal and ambitious father, while her true love, Ambrose, faces the executioner's block.
In Calidor, downtrodden servant March seeks revenge on the prince who betrayed his people.
"The Price of Magic" by Gavin Neale introduces Abby and her brother Chris who moved house four summers ago, discovered that magic exists, met a pair of witches that lived down the road and carried out a heroic rescue of their mother from the Land of Fairy.
But despite the discovery of their own magical talents, the memories of those events are beginning to fade. And even Abby, who gave up her magic to save her mother and carries the scars of a ghost sabre tooth tiger, is forgetting that eventful summer.
Then, while Chris is away and Abby is helping the witches during the Easter holidays, the Queen of the Land of Fairy comes back into Abby's life, looking for help. But can she be trusted?
Even though the witches try to protect her, Abby gets drawn into events with frightening consequences. She must face the results of what happened to her in the Land of Fairy, rescue her neighbour, and stop a magical war.
That's a lot of pressure for an eleven-year-old girl, even with a warrior's soul, but magic always has a price and a warrior's work is seldom done.
As readers begin to unlock her eventual fate, this is truly Abby's story - a fantasy novel that doesn't dumb things down for kids with inquisitive minds and perhaps even a smidge of a belief in magic themselves. Awesome stuff.
"The Price of Magic" by Gavin Neale is out now, published by Matador.
"The Frozen Telescope" picks up the adventures of Ivy, Valian and Seb right after "The Smoking Hourglass". Ivy, Seb and Valian think they've vanquished their enemies, and those of Lundinor, forever.
It turns out their adventure was only just beginning . . .
Ivy and Seb can't wait to join Valian for their first ever overseas uncommon adventure - they're meeting in Nubrook, the completely astonishing and totally-different-to-Ludinor trading market hidden underneath New York.
But there's no time to enjoy looking round all the incredible sights - they're on a mission to find Valian's long-lost sister, Rosie.
But it seems they're not the only ones looking for her.
Once again the Dirge rear their terrifying heads, and it appears they're after not only Rosie, but another enormously powerful Great Uncommon Good object. But what do they want it for? And can Ivy, Seb and Valianstop them from finding it?
Another rip-roaring adventure with a frenetic pace and a ton of originality.
"The Uncommoners: The Frozen Telescope" by Jennifer Bell and Karl James Mountford is out now, published by Corgi Children's Books.
"Eve of Man" begins an eventual trilogy featuring teenager Eve.
Eve is like any other teenage girl. Except that the fate of the entire world lies on her shoulders.
She's the first girl born in fifty years.
She's the answer to their prayers.
She's the final hope.
Which means she has one function alone . . .
At sixteen, Eve must face her destiny and make a choice.
She will choose a man, one out of three carefully selected suitors.
But what about Bram? The man she truly loves?
The future of the planet hangs on Eve making the right choice but it's a lot to lump onto someone's shoulders. Will Eve choose love or the future of the human race?
It's a breathtaking dystopian debut for this writing team who have both enjoyed massive success in their own separate publishing careers. Tautly written and page-turningly tense, you'll be crying out for the sequel by the end.
"Eve of Man" by Tom and Giovanna Fletcher is out now, published by Michael Joseph Books.
More for older readers now with a breathtaking new novel from Karen McManus.
Shockingly only four leave alive.
Yale hopeful Bronwyn has never publicly broken a rule and is considered to be a goody two-shoes.
Sports star Cooper only knows what he's doing in the baseball diamond. Short on brains and guile, how can Cooper concoct a conspiracy so complex?
Bad boy Nate is one misstep away from a life of crime. The black sheep of the family, and a prime suspect in the death - but is his guilt as cut and dried as it seems?
Prom queen Addy is holding together the cracks in her perfect life. Secrets and lies have always bubbled away in her background so why would anyone trust her word now?
And outsider Simon, creator of the notorious gossip app at Bayview High, won't ever talk about any of them again. Each has a motive for Simon's death - 24 hours before his big reveal of their deepest darkest secrets online.
Four suspects, mixed messages, alibis and stories that don't stack up. But who's the culprit?
This is an utterly gripping YA read from an author who can weave a complex and immersive tale with seemingly consummate ease.
"One of Us is Lying" by Karen M. McManus is out now, published by Penguin Books.
These five teenagers may hold the fate of the world in their hands, as their five nations engage in a gigantic conflict.
In Brigant, Princess Catherine prepares for a political marriage arranged by her brutal and ambitious father, while her true love, Ambrose, faces the executioner's block.
In Calidor, downtrodden servant March seeks revenge on the prince who betrayed his people.
In Pitoria, feckless Edyon steals cheap baubles for cheaper thrills as he drifts from town to town.
And in the barren northern territories, thirteen-year-old Tash is running for her life as she plays bait for the gruff demon hunter Gravell.
As alliances shift and shatter, and old certainties are overturned, our five heroes find their past lives transformed and their futures inextricably linked by the unpredictable tides of magic and war.
Who will rise and who will fall? And who will claim the ultimate prize?
And in the barren northern territories, thirteen-year-old Tash is running for her life as she plays bait for the gruff demon hunter Gravell.
As alliances shift and shatter, and old certainties are overturned, our five heroes find their past lives transformed and their futures inextricably linked by the unpredictable tides of magic and war.
Who will rise and who will fall? And who will claim the ultimate prize?
Like a slicker and more teen-engaging version of "Game of Thrones" this is YA fantasy at its best with peerless worldbuilding and utterly believable characters.
"The Smoke Thieves" by Sally Green is out now, published by Penguin Books.
More you say? MORE?! OH GO ON THEN!
The first part of a new book series is out now (with the next book following in September. You lucky people!) Let's delve into the seedy shadowy world of "The Curse of the Speckled Monster: Graverobbers and Gallows" by John Townsend.
Cephas Catchpole is a young orphan in 19th century England, apprenticed as a chimney sweep to a cruel master.
More you say? MORE?! OH GO ON THEN!
Cephas Catchpole is a young orphan in 19th century England, apprenticed as a chimney sweep to a cruel master.
When he is mistaken for dead after an accidental fall and buried alive, he is rescued from his fate by two unwitting bodysnatchers.
Against his will, Cephas finds himself drawn into the shady criminal underworld and begins to uncover a murderous conspiracy involving medical malpractice, Cephas' own mysterious parentage and the dreaded speckled monster itself smallpox.
This is a gripping and atmospheric Dickensian tale in two volumes for young readers, filled with suspense, humour and more twists than a hangman's noose. It's got a really cool dark smog-fuelled vibe to it that will please fans of all things Victorian (including us, of course!)
"Graverobbers and Gallows" by John Townsend is out now, published by Salariya with "The Twist of the Hangman" set to follow in September. Don't miss it!
An absolutely belting sequel now from a mistress of action and adventure.
"Stunt Double: Jungle Curse" by Tamsin Cooke is the follow-up to her first frenetically paced "Stunt Double" novel.
Finn thinks he has a dream job, but most of the cast and crew are haunted by the rumours that the current movie is cursed - and as things start to go wrong for Finn he begins to believe the rumours himself.
Scraping through by the skin of his teeth in several near misses, Finn decides it's time to investigate what's truly at the heart of the mishaps as secrets and lies threaten to bring filming to an abrupt - or fatal - end.
As superbly paced as the original, once again Tamsin writes up a storm with a cinematic masterpiece that's good for girls or boys who love adventure stories.
"Stunt Double: Jungle Curse" by Tamsin Cooke is out now, published by OUP / Oxford Children's Books.
Next up, a fab reprint with an all-new and up to date cover for an amazing mythical tale from Julia Golding.
"Secret of the Sirens" is book 1 in the "Companions" series from Julia, reprinted by OUP.
Normally the creatures and their chosen humans work in harmony. But something abnormal is happening here.
The Sirens, who for generations have kept their deadly song to themselves, are once again luring humans to their deaths. It doesn't take long for Connie to realise that the victims are oil workers. The Sirens are fed-up with their seas being polluted, but should the Society protect the Sirens or the oil industry?
Connie doesn't think she has a role to play, until it becomes clear that she's a Universal - the first person in over a century who can communicate with every type of beast on earth and in the air. Her power is immense. It corrupted the previous Universal . . . and now he's back. And he'll use any means he can - from violence to the terrifying Storm Giants - to turn Connie to the dark side.
It's an eco tale with a thumping heart and a dazzling mix of magic, adventure and mythical creatures so it's definitely right up our alley.
"Secrets of the Sirens (Companions Book 1)" by Julia Golding is out now, published by OUP / Oxford Children's Books.
This next one's something really special so pay attention at the back there!"The Cradle of All Worlds" by Jeremy Lachlan is the sort of sweeping and mesmeric fantasy adventure novel we just can't get enough of.
Dubbed as "Stranger Things meets Pullman's Northern Lights" (which is more than enough to garner our interest), this is book one in what we hope will be a huge series for Egmont.
Fourteen years ago, Jane Doe and her father arrived on the steps of the Manor – the entrance to a dangerous labyrinth connecting the island of Bluehaven to many other worlds.
This dangerous portal is the only safe haven for Jane and her father, as the world is rocked by mysterious earthquakes
When the strongest quake yet strikes and Jane's father disappears back into the Manor, she embarks on a perilous adventure to find him and save her world before the tremors grow far worse.
Jeremy's many fantasy influences are tightly woven into a breathtaking story that establishes an amazing bookworld to explore along with the fantastic character of Jane, a mighty girl who will discover her own strengths and weaknesses as the novel unfolds.
Utterly sublime and unmissable stuff.
"The Cradle of Worlds" by Jeremy Lachlan is out on 9th August 2018, published by Egmont UK.
Next, it looks like another one of our favourite comedians is establishing himself as something of a children's book legend. Not content with playing a nefarious Imperial Officer in "The Last Jedi", Adrian Edmondson (who shall forever be Vim Fuego to me) leaps from the success of his awesome "Tilly and the Time Machine" to "Junkyard Jack and the Horse that Talked" - Again with fab illustrations from Danny Noble.
Jack is a very small and bendy boy. So small and bendy, that he can hide inside his own school bag! A useful skill when you get picked on a lot.
Jack is a very small and bendy boy. So small and bendy, that he can hide inside his own school bag! A useful skill when you get picked on a lot.
Other than bending and hiding, his favourite thing to do is to go to Old Mr Mudge's junkyard and ride the horses, Lightning and Boadicea.
It's definitely better than going home to his drippy Aunt Violet, smelly Uncle Ted and evil cousin Kelly.
But when he (accidentally) runs away, he finds himself on an adventure to free his mum from prison- with the help of a lot of talking animals!
Filled with excitement, fun and far too much horse poo it's a hilarious and perfect summer read.
"Junkyard Jack and the Horse that Talked" by Adrian Edmondson and Danny Noble is out now, published by Puffin Books.
Time for a fantasy tale that takes its cues from classic fairy tales.
"Spinning Silver" by Naomi Novik tells the story of Miryem, the daughter and granddaughter of moneylenders. Miryem's father is too kind-hearted to collect his debts so they face poverty, until Miryem hardens her own heart and takes up his work in their village.
Her success creates rumours she can turn silver into gold, which attract the fairy king of winter himself. He sets her an impossible challenge – and if she fails, she’ll die. Yet if she triumphs, it may mean a fate worse than death. And in her desperate efforts to succeed, Miryem unwittingly spins a web which draws in the unhappy daughter of a lord.
The girl is called Irina and her father schemes to wed her to the tsar and he will pay any price to achieve this goal.
The girl is called Irina and her father schemes to wed her to the tsar and he will pay any price to achieve this goal.
However, the dashing tsar is not what he seems. And the secret he hides threatens to consume the lands of mortals and winter alike. Torn between deadly choices, Miryem and Irina embark on a quest that will take them to the limits of sacrifice, power and love.
A tempestuous and exquisitely crafted novel once again thoroughly establishing Naomi as a supreme talent to watch. "Spinning Silver" by Naomi Novik is out now, published by Macmillan Children's Books.
A tempestuous and exquisitely crafted novel once again thoroughly establishing Naomi as a supreme talent to watch. "Spinning Silver" by Naomi Novik is out now, published by Macmillan Children's Books.
One last one before we go, from a classic author whose timeless stories are still hugely popular with everyone today (including us).
From picnics in the sunshine to daring outdoor adventures, celebrate the fun and magic of summertime with these fun-filled short stories.
Ideal for newly confident readers, these entertaining tales are the perfect length for reading aloud at bedtime or in the classroom.
Enid Blyton remains one of Britain's favourite children's authors and her bumper short story collections are perfect for introducing her to the latest generation of readers.
Enid Blyton remains one of Britain's favourite children's authors and her bumper short story collections are perfect for introducing her to the latest generation of readers.
"Summertime Stories" by Enid Blyton is out now, published by Hodder Children's Books.
Goodness me! Where does the time go when we dip into our book bag? Tune in again in August when we'll be gearing up for a new school year with another selection of awesome chapter books to keep you busy in between homework. Have a fantastic summer!
Thursday, 28 June 2018
ReadItDaddy's Chapter Book Roundup - June 2018
Labels:
Chapter Book Roundup 2018
"Hubert and the Magic Glasses" by Candice Lemon-Scott and Joe Spellman is the story of a team that - well, let's face it - won't be bothering the upper echelons of world cup stardom any time soon.
The Able Ants are - for want of a better word - pants.
Hubert does not help. He enjoys football, but he struggles to maintain his skills.
Maybe magic glasses are the answer? At the very least they might stop Hubert mistaking dog food for breakfast cereal.
Taking the neat approach of giving kids of all abilities a chance to shine as central characters in a story, Hubert's uplifting tale is a really good read for kids who are just beginning to move on from picture books towards their first early chapter readers.
"Hubert and the Magic Glasses" by Candice Lemon-Scott and Joe Spellman is out now, published by New Frontier Publishing.
We're sticking with New Frontier for our next couple of books, including "Keeper of the Crystals: Eve and the Hidden Giant" by Jess Black.
Again, a series of books for younger kids just cutting their teeth with chapter fiction, meet Eve and Oscar, two unlikely friends who accidentally tap in to the power of the crystals and are thrust in to different and often dangerous worlds.
In this adventure they are thrown into the land of giants, a realm in turmoil.
Can they help the giants before their world is destroyed?
The series explores themes of the environment, resilience, and community as well as friendship and fantasy and is again absolutely spot on for kids moving on from picture books to more wordy fantasy stuff.
"Keeper of the Crystals: Eve and the Hidden Giant" by Jess Black is out now, published by New Frontier Publishing.
Science fiction fans are also well served by New Frontier in a series of exciting novels set in the solar system.
Meet Jake and his friends in the superb "Jake in Space" series of books by Candice Lemon-Scott with illustrations by Celeste Hulme.
When Henry the cyborg reveals that they are actually on a secret CIA mission, the group must work together to thwart a villainous plan to destroy the entire solar system, planet by planet.
Jake in Space is a series of sci-fi adventure stories full of action and suspense.
In each story, the Central Intergalactic Agency (CIA) sends its cyborg, Henry, on a secret mission. Jake ends up helping his cyborg friend but things never seem to go according to plan.
Perfect for early readers who love exciting sci-fi, "Jake in Space: Mercury Rising" and other titles in this stunning series are available now, published by New Frontier Publishing.
Changing tack entirely now for a gripping middle grade / early YA winner from Charli Howard and Nosy Crow.
"Splash" is the stunning story of Molly who is in her final year of primary school, with secret dreams of becoming an Olympic swimmer.
Having always lived in the shadow of her manipulative friend, Chloe, Molly finally has the chance to compete in a regional swimming contest and define herself on her own terms.
But with the pressure of fitting in, and the sudden arrival of her mysterious mum, Molly is presented with an almost impossible choice. Should she give up on her dreams for a shot at popularity?
A hugely exciting debut with a classic underdog story, a wonderfully relatable protagonist, and an important message of friendship, body positivity, and celebrating who you are. We've come to expect the very best from Nosy Crow and "Splash" does not disappoint.
"Splash" by Charli Howard is out on the 5th July 2018, published by Nosy Crow.
We've still got lots of lovely books to get through so what's next? Oooer, this sounds squishy!
David Solomons' "My Arch-Enemy is a Brain in a Jar" definitely IS squishy - and evil.
In a bizarre accident, Luke and his brother have swapped bodies! UGH!
Zack now has Luke's weird feet while Luke has Zack's SUPERPOWERS! Talk about a bad deal!
Now he needs another world-threatening adventure to try them out. Could a family mini-break at Great Minds Leisure Park be his chance?
Probably, because that's where his super-clever arch-enemy lurks, fermenting dastardly plans and bubbling gently... 'My Arch-Enemy Is a Brain In a Jar' is the fourth instalment of Luke's laugh-out-loud adventures.
From the author of 'My Brother Is a Superhero', winner of the Waterstones Children's Book Prize and the British Book Industry Awards Children's Book of the Year, and 'My Gym Teacher Is an Alien Overlord', winner of a Lollies Laugh Out Loud 2017 Book Award.
It's a rip-roaring adventure that definitely had us giggling. Pick up "My Arch-Enemy is a Brain in a Jar" by David Solomons, out now from Nosy Crow.
Got a sweet tooth? You're going to love this next one then - or will you because it starts off in a city where sweets and cakes and treats are BANNED!
In Lavie Tidhar's "Candy" Nelle Faulkner is a 12-year-old private detective looking for her next client.
So when notorious candy gangster Eddie de Menthe walks into her office (her dad's garden shed) and asks her to find a missing teddy bear, Nelle takes the case.
But as soon as the teddy turns up, Eddie himself goes missing.
Can Nelle track them both down... before she comes to a sticky end? Nelle's going to need help on this one, time to partner up!
If you're not craving a huge bag of pick and mix by the end of this one there's no hope for you.
"Candy" by Lavie Tidhar is out now, published by Scholastic.
Another real treat now, this time a slice of darkly delicious fantasy that may become your new favourite obsession.
The stunning debut from Juman Malouf, "The Trilogy of Two" has been optioned for a movie treatment by none other than Steven Spielberg so if that's not endorsement enough, you can also take our recommendation on this being absolutely brilliant stuff.
Identical twins Sonja and Charlotte are musical prodigies with extraordinary powers. Born on All-Hallows-Eve, the girls could play music before they could walk.
We've still got lots of lovely books to get through so what's next? Oooer, this sounds squishy!
In a bizarre accident, Luke and his brother have swapped bodies! UGH!
Zack now has Luke's weird feet while Luke has Zack's SUPERPOWERS! Talk about a bad deal!
Now he needs another world-threatening adventure to try them out. Could a family mini-break at Great Minds Leisure Park be his chance?
Probably, because that's where his super-clever arch-enemy lurks, fermenting dastardly plans and bubbling gently... 'My Arch-Enemy Is a Brain In a Jar' is the fourth instalment of Luke's laugh-out-loud adventures.
From the author of 'My Brother Is a Superhero', winner of the Waterstones Children's Book Prize and the British Book Industry Awards Children's Book of the Year, and 'My Gym Teacher Is an Alien Overlord', winner of a Lollies Laugh Out Loud 2017 Book Award.
It's a rip-roaring adventure that definitely had us giggling. Pick up "My Arch-Enemy is a Brain in a Jar" by David Solomons, out now from Nosy Crow.
In Lavie Tidhar's "Candy" Nelle Faulkner is a 12-year-old private detective looking for her next client.
So when notorious candy gangster Eddie de Menthe walks into her office (her dad's garden shed) and asks her to find a missing teddy bear, Nelle takes the case.
But as soon as the teddy turns up, Eddie himself goes missing.
Can Nelle track them both down... before she comes to a sticky end? Nelle's going to need help on this one, time to partner up!
If you're not craving a huge bag of pick and mix by the end of this one there's no hope for you.
"Candy" by Lavie Tidhar is out now, published by Scholastic.
The stunning debut from Juman Malouf, "The Trilogy of Two" has been optioned for a movie treatment by none other than Steven Spielberg so if that's not endorsement enough, you can also take our recommendation on this being absolutely brilliant stuff.
Identical twins Sonja and Charlotte are musical prodigies with extraordinary powers. Born on All-Hallows-Eve, the girls could play music before they could walk.
They were found one night by Tatty, the Tattooed Lady of the circus, in a pail on her doorstep with only a note and a heart-shaped locket. They've been with Tatty ever since, roaming the Outskirts in the circus caravans, moving from place to place.
But lately, curious things have started to happen when they play their instruments. During one of their performances, the girls accidentally levitate their entire audience, drawing too much unwanted attention.
But lately, curious things have started to happen when they play their instruments. During one of their performances, the girls accidentally levitate their entire audience, drawing too much unwanted attention.
Soon, ominous Enforcers come after them, and Charlotte and Sonja must embark on a perilous journey through enchanted lands in hopes of unlocking the secrets of their mysterious past.
Juman's highly original characters, gorgeously involved and intricate plotting and breathtaking conclusion will have you gasping for more. The sort of book that you will end up reading long into the wee small hours.
"The Trilogy of Two" by Juman Malouf is out now, published by Pushkin Children's Books.
Onjali Q Rauf's "The Boy at the Back of the Class" highlights the importance of friendship and kindness in a world that doesn't always make sense.
"There used to be an empty chair at the back of my class, but now a new boy called Ahmet is sitting in it.
He's nine years old (just like me), but he's very strange. He never talks and never smiles and doesn't like sweets - not even lemon sherbets, which are my favourite!
But then I learned the truth: Ahmet really isn't very strange at all. He's a refugee who's run away from a War. A real one. With bombs and fires and bullies that hurt people. And the more I find out about him, the more I want to help.
That's where my best friends Josie, Michael and Tom come in. Because you see, together we've come up with a plan. . ."
Full of warmth with a huge beating heart pounding out this important message, it deserves to be read by everyone, young and old.
"The Boy at the Back of the Class" by Onjali Q Rauf is out in July, published by Orion Children's Books.
"Embassy of the Dead" is a ghoulish treat that begins after Jake opens a strange box containing a severed finger.
Jake accidentally summons a grim reaper to drag him to the Eternal Void (yep, it's as fatal as it sounds) and now he's running for his life! But luckily Jake isn't alone - he can see and speak to ghosts.
Jake and his deadly gang (well dead, at least) - Stiffkey the undertaker, hockey stick-wielding, Cora, and Zorro the ghost fox (our absolute favourite character in this, who steals just about every single scene) - have one mission: find the Embassy of the Dead and seek protection. But the Embassy has troubles of its own and may not be the safe haven Jake is hoping for!
Perfect for kids who love spooky goings on, with a touch of supernatural magic sprinkled over for good measure. Catch "The Embassy of the Dead" by Will Mabbitt and Chris Mould, out now from Orion Children's Books.
"Riddle of the Runes (Viking Mysteries Book 1)" is a glorious and sprawling tale from the Viking age featuring a gutsy new heroine that girls and boys will love reading about.
Alva is a wild one who always thinks she knows better than her parents. As Alva rushes through the trees in the dead of night with her sniffer wolf, Fen, she secrently knows that she's taking a huge risk.
Being out alone when there's a kidnapper on the loose is reckless, but if she ever wants to be an investigator like her Uncle Magnus, she'll need to be first to the crime scene.
But what Alva discovers raises more questions than it answers, drawing her into a dangerous search for truth, and for treasure.
One of the most breathtakingly original historic novels for children that we've read in a long time, it's like a kid-friendly version of the Ellis Peters "Cadfael" books but with a ton more excitement for middle graders who love an intricate mystery.
"Riddle of the Runes" by Janina Ramirez is out now, published by OUP / Oxford Childrens Books.
Something for younger readers now with a highly amusing and brilliantly illustrated story for early chapter readers.
"Me and Mister P: Ruby's Star" by Maria Farrer and Daniel Rieley features a very friendly and sometimes quite helpful polar bear named Mr P.
Well, Mr P does try - but Ruby finds him 'trying' in an entirely different way when he moves in and turns her life upside down.
"Me and Mister P: Ruby's Star" by Maria Farrer and Daniel Rieley features a very friendly and sometimes quite helpful polar bear named Mr P.
Well, Mr P does try - but Ruby finds him 'trying' in an entirely different way when he moves in and turns her life upside down.
But in this rather lovely heartfelt little story Ruby may not realise that she actually does need the help of a big fuzzy fellah who has the best of intentions, and might just convince Ruby that she's worth something after all, and to believe in herself more.
Fabulously written with a whomping great big heart, and super little illustrations throughout, it'll definitely win you over.
"Me and Mr P: Ruby's Star" by Maria Farrer and Daniel Rieley is out now, published by OUP / Oxford Children's Books.
Another corker from blog fave Anne Booth now, with another super little story in her "Magical Kingdom of Birds" series.
This time it's the turn of "The Sleepy Hummingbirds" in a story illustrated by Rosie Butcher, full of the dazzling colours and beautiful songs of the world's most amazing birds.
But the kingdom is in trouble - evil Lord Astor has a plan to capture and cage the tiniest residents, the hummingbirds - and as Keeper of the Book it's up to Maya to protect them.
With colouring pages for your own kids to join in with, and a thrilling adventure story full of fantasy, feathered friends and of course a huge dose of magic, this is also brilliant for younger readers and we're so happy to see Anne going from success to success!
"Magical Kingdom of Birds: The Sleepy Hummingbirds" by Anne Booth and Rosie Butcher is out now, published by OUP / Oxford Children's Books.
We're wrapping up our June roundup with a superb mystery from super-talented author Abie Longstaff, the 2nd book in her fantastic "The Trapdoor Mysteries" series.
Continuing the adventures of Tally, a code-breaking, animal-loving servant girl and her best friend, a squirrel named Squill, who solve mysteries with the help of a secret library, "The Scent of Danger" follows on from February's excellent "A Sticky Situation" with another brilliantly eye-catching cover and internal illustrations from super-talented illustrator James Brown.
Orphan Tally is the servant girl at Mollett Manor - and she's also the Secret Keeper of the magical library hidden beneath a trapdoor, underneath the manor's grounds.
We're wrapping up our June roundup with a superb mystery from super-talented author Abie Longstaff, the 2nd book in her fantastic "The Trapdoor Mysteries" series.
Continuing the adventures of Tally, a code-breaking, animal-loving servant girl and her best friend, a squirrel named Squill, who solve mysteries with the help of a secret library, "The Scent of Danger" follows on from February's excellent "A Sticky Situation" with another brilliantly eye-catching cover and internal illustrations from super-talented illustrator James Brown.
Orphan Tally is the servant girl at Mollett Manor - and she's also the Secret Keeper of the magical library hidden beneath a trapdoor, underneath the manor's grounds.
Along with Squill the squirrel, she uses the enchanted books to solve crimes. So when Lady Mollett's new puppy, Widdles, is kidnapped, Tally and Squill head straight to the library. But will they be able to catch the dognapper or is it already too late?
Chock full of excitement, mystery and a fantastic line in tongue-in-cheek humour, it's reminiscent of the very best Enid Blyton mysteries, but with a whopping dose of charm and brilliance all of its own.
Catch up with "The Trapdoor Mysteries: The Scent of Danger" (Book 2) by Abie Longstaff, out now and published by Little, Brown.
Phew! It's a wrap! Tune in when we look at even more chapter book brilliance in July. See you then!
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