Knight Owl by Christopher Denise is a sweet tale of bravery and cleverness, centred on an endearing young owl who dreams of becoming a knight. DespiteKnight Owl by Christopher Denise is a sweet tale of bravery and cleverness, centred on an endearing young owl who dreams of becoming a knight. Despite his small size and gentle nature, Owl is determined to protect the castle, drawing on his wits and nocturnal instincts. When a mysterious intruder arrives on his watch, Owl must use all his courage to face the threat.
This story is filled with humour and a nice message about inner strength and resourcefulness. With its rich, sumptuous illustrations and a cute protagonist. A picturebook that celebrates the idea that true bravery comes from resilience, intelligence, and kindness. Written for young and old alike; I can see how this book earned a Caldecott Honor....more
A lovely little novel that reminded me of Tuck Everlasting meeting Coelho's The Alchemist. The story follows young Tomek, a shopkeeper who embarks on A lovely little novel that reminded me of Tuck Everlasting meeting Coelho's The Alchemist. The story follows young Tomek, a shopkeeper who embarks on an adventure after a mysterious girl visits his store seeking a drop of water from the magical River Qjar, which flows backwards and upside down. His quest leads him through enchanting and perilous landscapes, reminiscent of Oz, including the Forest of Oblivion, a meadow of deadly scented flowers, and a cursed island. The narrative is brushed with philosophy, exploring themes of love, courage, and the pursuit of dreams. The kind of book you picture being made into a successful 80s movie like Neverending Story. ...more
An enchanting exploration of the imagination, beautifully brought to life with surreal illustrations. The story follows Sato, a boy/rabbit who embarksAn enchanting exploration of the imagination, beautifully brought to life with surreal illustrations. The story follows Sato, a boy/rabbit who embarks on magical adventures where everyday objects and moments transform into imaginative landscapes. Each page invites readers into Sato’s unique perspective, where garden hoses lead to ponds with “blowing water,� stars can be collected like fireflies, and watermelons serve as delightful boats.
Ainoya’s storytelling will spark curiosity and creative thinking in its readers with its gentle et richly vibrant art. The quiet charm and philosophical undertones will intrigue young children, while its focus on nature and wonder is so well put - there is no forcing here of ideas just simple exploration. Sato offers readers a soft escape into a world where imagination is vital and simple moments reveal fantastical possibilities. Thank you, Elsa! ...more
A fine, magical addition to any winter holiday stories. A beautifully illustrated picture book brings the Italian folk character La Befana to life, asA fine, magical addition to any winter holiday stories. A beautifully illustrated picture book brings the Italian folk character La Befana to life, as she writes a letter to children in celebration of Epiphany on January 6th. Cuoghi’s Befana is charmingly crafted—a winter witch flying through a starlit sky, delivering sweets to well-behaved children and lumps of coal to others, all while sharing her love for the changing seasons and the promise of spring.
The artwork by Elenia Beretta is enchanting, using gouache and touches of fluorescent orange to give Befana’s journey an ethereal glow. Gunn’s translation ensures the letter’s tone remains engaging and lyrical, making it accessible for young readers.
Beyond the tale, the book also provides fascinating cultural insights, connecting Befana’s legend to other winter witches across Europe, like Germany’s Frau Holle and Austria’s Frau Perchta.I really enjoyed it. ...more
A wordless picture book that offers a reflective look at the passage of time and humanity’s relationship with nature. The story centres on a single trA wordless picture book that offers a reflective look at the passage of time and humanity’s relationship with nature. The story centres on a single tree (for the most part) along a river, standing as a silent witness to human progress, conflicts, and environmental change over millennia. When the book is set is for the close reader to work out. Through intricate and cinematic illustrations, Becker traces the rise and fall of civilizations, showing the impact of industrialisation, war, and technological growth on both the land and its inhabitants.
This poignant tale, though wordless, sparks deep conversation about the environment, stewardship, and the fleeting nature of human endeavours. This is both a cautionary tale and a celebration of nature's resilience, offering readers a rich, immersive experience that encourages contemplation on humanity’s role within the natural world. ...more
A deliciously haunting and visually striking retelling of an old Tyrolean folktale (amended from a collection of Ruth Manning-Sanders stories), blendiA deliciously haunting and visually striking retelling of an old Tyrolean folktale (amended from a collection of Ruth Manning-Sanders stories), blending eerie tension with Klassen's signature minimalist artwork. The story follows a young girl named Otilla, who flees danger and takes refuge in an abandoned house inhabited by a talking skull. What unfolds is a beautifully paced tale that oscillates between whimsy and unsettling creepiness, building an atmospheric tension that’s reminiscent of classic ghost stories.
Klassen masterfully plays with silence and space, allowing his minimalist illustrations to evoke a sense of isolation and suspense. The characters� expressions—particularly the skull’s—are subtle, yet imbued with emotion and some dark humour, drawing readers into a world that feels both surreal and grounded in the starkness of its setting. The pacing, punctuated by the 'part' titles reminiscent of cinematic cues (like those seen in The Shining or Blood Meridian), adds to the book's filmic quality, making each page turn feel like a slow build toward an inevitable, yet quietly powerful conclusion.
One of the book's triumphs is its ability to balance simplicity with depth. On the surface, it's a spooky folktale, but beneath that, The Skull explores themes of fear, trust, and companionship, with a delightfully dark undertone. Otilla’s interactions with the skull, who at first seems a sinister figure but gradually reveals itself as more complex, give the story an unexpected warmth amidst its ghostly atmosphere.
Perfect for those who enjoy a touch of the macabre and I'll stand my ground by saying children will be grossly engaged rather than scared as a whole. ...more
Introducing young readers to the magic of wordplay and poetry, this collection serves as an engaging guide to creating ver**Review for BooksforKeeps**
Introducing young readers to the magic of wordplay and poetry, this collection serves as an engaging guide to creating verse. Led by the delightful character of Piglet, Taylor presents five types of poems, each introduced in a playful, highly-accessible way. The large, square format of the book is perfect for sharing, with each page moving between Piglet’s free-verse adventures and excited reflections on his own poetic creations. After each journey, the narrator steps in to show readers how they, too, can compose a similar poem, making the process inviting and fun. Taylor’s narrative is simple yet layered with meaning, as Piglet discovers the joy of shaping words from his observations and experiences. The author’s talent for capturing childlike wonder makes this book an inspiring tool for sparking creativity and showing any reader or listener that they, too, can create poetry. Piglet’s journey mirrors the experiences of young readers, presenting poetry as playful and inviting rather than intimidating. Equally, Usher’s watercolour illustrations complement the text, bringing vibrancy and warmth to Piglet’s world. There are also sweet moments where the illustrator goes beyond embellishment, adding depth to Piglet’s experiences - these often occur on those spreads where poetry exercises and ideas are shared. These moments of love and exploration encourage readers to look closely, inviting them to discover something new with each reading—just like a poem. The book’s most powerful quality is its ability to demystify poetry, revealing it as a vessel for holding thoughts, emotions, and observations. Taylor gently emphasises that there’s no right or wrong way to write a poem, making it a wonderful tool for inspiring creativity and self-expression. Both instructional and inspiring, this book is an ideal choice for young readers ready to explore the world of poetry, offering them the encouragement to find their own voices and the joy of capturing their unique experiences on paper. ...more
An extraordinary and gripping story based on a real event from the 18th century, when a group of boys and men were stranded on a remote sea stack in tAn extraordinary and gripping story based on a real event from the 18th century, when a group of boys and men were stranded on a remote sea stack in the St Kilda archipelago. The tale is deeply atmospheric, blending stark survival themes with introspective moments, as the characters grapple with fear, isolation, and the slow realisation that they may never return home.
McCaughrean captures the harsh, wild beauty of the Stacs and the emotional depth of the boys' journey. While the novel presents moments of hope and camaraderie, it doesn’t shy away from the raw and often bleak realities of survival, offering a poignant look into the resilience of the human spirit. This is a story that does not shy away from depicting the harsh realities of what happened.
McCaughrean shows why she will always be one of the very best writers. ...more
A delightful and energetic read, blending humour with heartfelt moments.
The story revolves around Pete, a boy who loves his dad's pizza shop but refuA delightful and energetic read, blending humour with heartfelt moments.
The story revolves around Pete, a boy who loves his dad's pizza shop but refuses to leave his home after a traumatic event. Faced with the threat of losing their beloved pizza shop, Pete and his friend Anna, embark on a wild adventure when they discover a suitcase full of magical potions. These potions lead to some hilarious and chaotic moments, from shrinking dogs to shrinking bullies, all while Pete and Anna try to save the business.
Sellon’s debut is lively and full of humour but it's the tender portrayal of Pete’s relationship with his dad that did it for me. The book also handles serious themes such as anxiety and self-isolation with care, making it not only a fun read but one with emotional depth. Horne’s illustrations add to the charm, bringing the wacky magical moments to life with expressive and dynamic artwork....more
A spine-chilling middle-grade novel that mixes humour with elements of horror, perfect for readers aged 9+ (although note the setting is Year 7). The A spine-chilling middle-grade novel that mixes humour with elements of horror, perfect for readers aged 9+ (although note the setting is Year 7). The story follows four students—Hallie, Angelo, Naira, and Gus—who are stuck in a Saturday detention at their school, only to find themselves entangled in a terrifying mystery. What begins as a frustrating punishment quickly escalates into a nightmarish adventure when their teacher is mysteriously dragged underground, and the school’s creepy caretakers start acting suspiciously.
Killick blends suspense with witty banter, creating characters that are relatable and endearing, even as they face terrifying challenges. The group must navigate eerie settings and battle unseen horrors, all while learning to work together despite their differences. The tension is perfectly balanced with humour, making the novel engaging without overwhelming younger readers.
There's fine character growth here, as the children confront both external threats and their internal struggles. The creepy atmosphere, cliffhanger chapter endings, and clever twists keep readers hooked until the end�. For those much older, think Goonies - meets - Breakfast Club - meets - Arachnophobia. I'll be reading all the others in the series. ...more
Catz indulges his love for roleplaying by delving into his detective box, inspired to solve a mystery when Flossy the squirrel reports her missing nutCatz indulges his love for roleplaying by delving into his detective box, inspired to solve a mystery when Flossy the squirrel reports her missing nut. Armed with his magnifying glass, camera and an apple for when he gets hungry, Catz sets off towards the Big Tree in search of clues. Along the way, he meets other friends and finds several discarded items but no big nut no matter how hard he searches. Dejected, he heads off to tell his friends of his lack of success until a serendipitous discovery leads to a heartwarming resolution for all.
Henrichs possesses a magical ability to tap into children’s creativity and imagination, consistently delivering delightful experiences. Through her signature illustrative style, her narratives and ideas resonate alongside authors like Daisy Hirst and Shirley Hughes. Within the pages of this book, numerous subtle clues are cleverly woven into the illustrations, inviting eagle-eyed readers to uncover puzzles and connections with each subsequent reading.
While there are subtle messages here about being kind and supporting others, it is the playful, creative mindset of the child-like animals that holds the appeal. Bright washes of watercolour and pen show character and movement that mirror young children at play, and it is refreshing to see this set in the outdoors. A lovely picture book full of energy and playfulness that will engage and inspire its young readers....more
Suzy’s auntie and her sleek white cat live a life of quiet contentment � delicious meals, peaceful silence, basking in the sun’s warmth and unrestrictSuzy’s auntie and her sleek white cat live a life of quiet contentment � delicious meals, peaceful silence, basking in the sun’s warmth and unrestricted freedom. That is until Auntie’s little niece, Suzy comes to call. A whirlwind of boundless energy, Suzy adores Cat and wants to play with and cuddle him all the time. This clashes hilariously with the cat’s introverted nature, sparking a playful game of hide-and-seek throughout Auntie’s house.
Drawing on her experiences, Eland has crafted a charming, fun story about a demanding, imaginative toddler and a very private cat. Her signature Pantone palette shines here with an extra-bright pink, making both the illustrations and setting pop to life. The white cat set against the negative space makes the whole hide-and-seek game work well for the young reader who will take joy in spotting the cat in increasingly comical hiding spaces.
This playful picturebook is Eland’s most interactive yet. It is brimming with humour and invites shared reading experiences. Adults and children will delight in searching for the elusive cat together. The heartwarming conclusion, where the cat finally succumbs to Suzy’s affection, is beautifully complemented by the whimsical endpapers showcasing the cat’s various hiding spots. A guaranteed source of giggles for readers young and old....more
Our sparsely-worded story follows a little dog as he navigates the bustling cityscape with his owner, becoming increasingly distressed by the sizzlingOur sparsely-worded story follows a little dog as he navigates the bustling cityscape with his owner, becoming increasingly distressed by the sizzling sidewalks, wailing sirens, and crowded streets. After near misses with feet, skateboards, and rushing traffic, our canine companion simply lies down in an act of defiance. His compassionate owner notices his discomfort and decides to take a spontaneous trip to the beach, providing much-needed relief and a breath of fresh air for both of them.
Salati’s poetic narrative is simple yet evocative, perfectly paired with his brilliant illustrations that bring the dog’s journey to life (as well as his owner’s). The vibrant, detailed artwork transitions from the oppressive heat of the city to the refreshing, open spaces of the beach, offering readers a palpable sense of the dog’s transition from stress to relaxation. Salati’s use of colour, line, and perspective are masterfully executed, especially as they shift from the hot reds and oranges of the sweltering city to the cool blues and greens of the ocean.
The story’s strength lies in its ability to convey both the dog’s and owner’s emotions through word and image. The clever use of sensory details and shifting environments makes this a joyful exploration of finding calm amidst chaos, a theme that is sure to resonate with readers of all ages. There is movement on the pages here, too, and character. As Salati’s third publication, he comes across as a visual storyteller to watch with this life-affirming and visually captivating piece.
This charming picture book’s canine protagonist reminds us that veering off the tide of a busy life and taking time to find peace and solace can be immensely rewarding....more
Enter the charming world of No. 5 Bubblegum Street, a bustling apartment building home to an array of quirky animal residents. From Mouse the rapper, Enter the charming world of No. 5 Bubblegum Street, a bustling apartment building home to an array of quirky animal residents. From Mouse the rapper, frantically searching for his hat, to the houseplant-obsessed Panther and the musical Spiders, every character brings vibrant energy to this delightful story. I particularly enjoyed spending time in Panther’s apartment, where a love for potted plants flourishes.
The narrative unfolds at a leisurely pace, allowing young readers to immerse themselves in the intricacies of each household. Gosia Herba’s illustrations are a visual delight, bursting with bright, bold colours and intricate details that invite repeated exploration. Each character and their environment are brought to life with a distinct colour palette, enhancing the individuality of their stories.
After all the characters have been introduced, we find them on the rooftop terrace, transformed into a lively party scene where all the neighbours gather to share their talents and passions. This culmination underscores themes of community, acceptance, and the beauty of diversity. The colourful and dynamic illustrations capture the essence of this celebration, making each page a visual delight.
Pa and Herba, along with Gilroy’s translation, encourage children to appreciate the richness of differences and the joy of coming together. This picture book offers repeated readings that can be shared and enjoyed together, with children always spotting details that adults might miss....more
Our story begins with a tiny, orange-skinned spaceman who lands on what he initially perceives as an ordinary planet. His job, as he solemnly informs Our story begins with a tiny, orange-skinned spaceman who lands on what he initially perceives as an ordinary planet. His job, as he solemnly informs us, is to collect soil samples, label them, and move on to the next destination—a monotonous routine he carries out with diligent precision. However, this particular planet is unlike any he has encountered before. As the spaceman becomes captivated by its mysterious beauty, his focus shifts from the mundanity of his tasks to the extraordinary world around him.
Telling the story from the spaceman’s first-person perspective is a masterstroke by Cecil. The spaceman’s voice, formal yet endearing, evokes a sense of nostalgia and humour that will delight both older readers and young listeners alike. This tone, combined with the spaceman’s wide-eyed observations, is charmingly reminiscent of a Bill Bryson-esque narrative, adding a layer of innocence and wonder.
Cecil’s use of oil paints gives the illustrations a rich, textured feel, with each brushstroke adding depth and warmth to the pages. The colour palette is both vibrant and subtle, with the orange hue of the spaceman’s skin and white suit standing out against the soft greens and blues of the planet’s landscape—impressive for such a tiny creature. What initially seems like an ordinary planet is soon revealed to be teeming with life—flowers, butterflies, and a friendly yet “hideous� beast that turns out to be a dog. The juxtaposition of the spaceman’s small stature against the planet’s large flora and fauna emphasises his vulnerability and the vast beauty of the world he has stumbled upon—a subtle invitation for readers to contemplate the significance of their surroundings.
Ultimately, this is a story about finding joy in the unexpected and learning to appreciate the world around us. The spaceman’s journey from duty-bound explorer to joyful participant is touching and uplifting. When he finally finds his spaceship lodged in a tree, he faces a choice: return to his old life of routine and monotony, or stay on this extraordinary planet where he has found happiness and friendship. The decision is made with a delicate touch of humour and grace that resonates deeply.
Cecil’s storytelling is as thoughtful as it is whimsical, inviting readers to pause, look around, and perhaps see the world in a new light. This beautifully crafted picture book captures the essence of discovery, wonder, and the unexpected beauty found in the most ordinary of places—a gentle reminder to stop, breathe, and appreciate life’s simple pleasures, preferably, with a dog.
Blessing Musariri’s narrative delicately explores the themes of loss, grief, and the enduring strength of love. The story follows Shingai, a young boyBlessing Musariri’s narrative delicately explores the themes of loss, grief, and the enduring strength of love. The story follows Shingai, a young boy struggling with the absence of his father, and the emotional upheaval that ensues. Through his restless energy and the disorder he creates at home, Shingai’s internal struggle is poignantly depicted, capturing the confusion and sadness that come with loss.
As the story unfolds, Shingai and his mother find solace in each other, realising that even in the face of loss, they remain connected by their love. This shared understanding becomes the anchor that helps them navigate their grief, emphasising the importance of togetherness in healing.
Shearring’s watercolour illustrations add a soft, expressive quality to the narrative. The vibrant colours and dynamic compositions bring warmth and visual depth to the story, complementing the emotional tone of the text. Shearring’s artwork beautifully captures the shifting moods of Shingai’s journey, providing a gentle contrast to the book’s heavier themes. Allusions to the past run throughout the family’s home and celebrate Shearring’s ability to weave more into the story.
While the central message about resilience through shared love is touching, the narrative progression tends to be straightforward, with a resolution that, though heartwarming, arrives somewhat quickly. This pacing may leave readers wanting a deeper exploration of the emotional nuances presented throughout the story.
Ultimately, this is a tender and comforting tale for children experiencing loss. Musariri’s sensitive storytelling, combined with Shearring’s evocative illustrations, results in a thoughtful book that, despite its simplicity and a reluctance to delve deeper, successfully conveys the healing power of love and connection....more
Bearing in mind, Johnnie's 'Swim Team' will remain a firm graphic novel favourite of mine for all time, Gamerville, for me, didn't quite reach the samBearing in mind, Johnnie's 'Swim Team' will remain a firm graphic novel favourite of mine for all time, Gamerville, for me, didn't quite reach the same heights. While the book explores themes of technology addiction and the importance of human connection, it suffers from a few significant flaws that detract from its overall impact.
The story follows Max, an avid gamer who is forced to attend Camp Reset, a screen-free summer camp, instead of participating in the Gamerville Video Game Tournament. The setup promises an exploration of friendships and personal growth, but much of the narrative comes off as preachy, particularly in its heavy-handed messages about the dangers of video games and sugar consumption. The tone often feels overly simplistic and lacks nuance, leaving little room for younger readers to engage with the story.
Additionally, while the art in Gamerville is bright and visually engaging, the characters themselves are somewhat flat, with stiff expressions that don't always match the emotional beats of the plot - I can't help but feel that Johnnie was rushed in places although background and scene setting are delightful. This creates a dissonance between the narrative and the artwork, leaving readers wanting more emotional depth and complexity in the characters and their relationships.
The plot resolution also feels a bit too convenient and rushed. Max’s journey toward redemption and self-discovery, which involves breaking into the camp’s Toy Tower to reclaim video games, ends in a way that feels rushed and jumbled rather than thought-provoking�. It might still appeal to younger readers looking for a light, fast-paced story, but those seeking a deeper exploration of the themes will likely find it lacking. I wondered, as I was reading, how much editing went on and whether too much was trying to be into a story that probably needed refining and focusing. ...more
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