I love a book that celebrates individuality and finding, and loving, what makes you unique. Perfectly Norman by Tom Percival (Bloomsbury) does just that. 'Norman had always been perfectly normal. That was until the day he grew a pair of wings! Norman is very surprised to have wings suddenly - and he has the most... Continue Reading →
The Explorer
Katherine Rundell has a beautiful way of making writing like new. Her phrases are bright and unexpected jewels, waking you up to the world. She gives seriously good simile! Her descriptions transport you to the amazon and throw you in to the jungle. The Explorer is an adventure in language as well as storyline. 'From his seat... Continue Reading →
Countless by Karen Gregory
I inhaled this book. I was emotionally involved from the very start and couldn't bear to put it down. 'When Hedda discovers she is pregnant, she doesn't believe she could ever look after a baby. The numbers just don't add up. She is young, and still in the grip of an eating disorder that controls... Continue Reading →
We Come Apart
There are some authors whom you cherish. Their words bring you to life. Their books are stroked and collected in different editions. A new book's publishing date is scribbled on your calendar and you inhale it when it arrives. There are so many authors whose work sends me a bit giddy like that and Sarah Crossan... Continue Reading →
Stargazing for Beginners by Jenny McLachlan
There's a lot to love in this book about friendship and finding yourself amongst the chaos of life. 'Science geek Meg is left to look after her little sister for ten days after her free-spirited mum leaves suddenly to follow up yet another of her Big Important Causes. But while Meg may understand how the universe... Continue Reading →
Books for a Future
We are all reeling from the American election results and the impact a Trump-led leadership is already having on tolerance, equality and justice. And all that on top of our own Brexit backlash! This shift to a right wing leadership is going to have a huge impact on the most vulnerable in our communities and... Continue Reading →
What to read after the Rainbow Magic Fairies?
Last week a friend asked me for book suggestions for her daughter who loves the Rainbow Magic fairy books. She loves the fantasy aspect of the series, and the slim volumes that don't intimidate her. But what could she read next? What should she move on to? It struck me that it's probably a common... Continue Reading →
Apple and Rain by Sarah Crossan
This book is a gift. A book that I want to share with all the children (and adults) I know so that they can experience the journey of reading it. The best books change you as you read them. They offer you a view of another way of life or a different perspective when looking... Continue Reading →
Books about books
Not much makes me happier than a book. And a book about books and storytelling is likely to make me do a little happy dance. I came across these stunners in my local children's book shop Bags of Books. I was looking for some great books to add to The Rainbow Library for International Book... Continue Reading →
Friendship through the books of Tom Percival
I have just had another sort through of books. I am not naturally organised but I do love a list. And making piles. I don't tend to get much done beyond that, but my lists always look good and the piles of books make me feel organised. Today, however, I have had a crazy coincidence.... Continue Reading →