I am a big fan of Andy Stanton's Mr Gum books which are about a disgusting man called Mr Gum who likes 'being lonely and scowling at things'. In the book called You're a Bad Man Mr Gum ( which I LOVE reading with my Year 4 class as we all laugh out loud so much), Mr Gum tries to get rid of Jake the dog for being 'full of happiness' and a sweet girl called Polly, along with other random characters, are determined to stop him!!  It's full of nonsense, silliness and brilliantly unique ideas!! Hilarious for adults and children alike!

The Day the Crayons Quit is a charming and imaginative children's book written by Drew Daywalt and illustrated by Oliver Jeffers. The story revolves around a box of crayons who decide to go on strike, each for their own unique reasons. From overworked red crayons to neglected peach crayons, each character expresses their grievances through letters to their owner, Duncan. The book not only entertains young readers with its colourful and imaginative storytelling but also teaches important lessons about creativity, individuality, and the importance of listening to others. Through the crayons' letters, children learn about empathy and understanding as they see things from the perspective of each crayon. 

The Firework Maker's Daughter, by Philip Pullman, is a fantastic children's novel about overcoming adversity and self-belief.  In the story, Lila wants nothing more than to follow in her father's footsteps and become a Firework Maker.  However, she is seen as too young and, in her culture, this is not normally something a girl would do.

So Lila sets out on an adventure to learn the secrets of the Firework Makers...a dark and challenging adventure that requires bravery and courage from Lila.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nD45Et8Jhqk 

The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin is a beautifully illustrated book by Beatrix Potter. A family of squirrels have to travel to Nut Island to collect nuts; they bring the guardian of the island, Old Brown, presents but Squirrel Nutkin is very cheeky and teases the old owl. He is warned to behave himself but he doesn't listen. One day he gets caught by the owl and loses his tail. You would have thought this would teach him to be polite... but he continues to be a naughty little squirrel.

It is very old fashioned and doesn't have the traditional happy ending which allows good discussions about how we should listen to advice and treat others with respect. The illustrations are detailed and stunning - especially the image of the squirrels on their little rafts, using their tails as sails. It brings back fond memories of being read to by my own mum when I was a little girl. 

One of my favourite children’s books is ‘Room on the Broom’ by Julia Donaldson. This exciting story takes us on a fantasy filled adventure with the witch, who meets lots of interesting characters on her journey. The rhyme and rhythm flows seamlessly throughout, with the magical illustrations by Axel Sheffler bringing the story to life. 

Children always love joining in with the repeated phrases and adding actions. I particularly like the ending, where they make a “truly magnificent broom! With seats for the witch and the cat and the dog, a nest for the bird and a shower for the frog!”

One of my favourite children’s books is ‘Shhh!’ by Sally Grindley and Peter Utton. It is a modern, adapted version of Jack and the Beanstalk and features a sleeping giant, his wife, a mouse, hen and a cat. Jack is represented by the reader, who is invited to quietly enter the giant’s castle and wander through the rooms. There are clever ‘lift the flaps’ to look through as we try to stay as quiet as possible. By the time the giant wakes, the tension is electric. 

The ending of the book is very abrupt, as we shut the book quickly to stop the giant chasing after us. Young children love this book – as will the adults! 

One of my favourite books is Traction Man by Mini Grey. I really enjoy the imagination and creativity of this story.  It is all about a boy playing with his action figure and taking it on many adventures. Traction Man tackles some enemies such as The Evil Dishcloth. On his adventure he gains the friend, Scrubbing Brush, who helps him to save the day. The story is also really funny which means it such a joy to read to children.

This was a Jessop family favourite when our children were little. Snuggled up after a warm bath we loved the suspense of whether the wily cat would be successful in its endeavours, and delighted when he got his come uppence. The illustrations are beautiful as well as the descriptive language, every word chosen with care. I can hear our two now joining in the repeated phrase ‘Mouse look out. There’s a cat about!'

A children’s book I have been enjoying recently is ‘The Day The Crayons Quit’ by Drew Daywalt. Duncan wants to use his crayons but instead he is met with letters describing why they quit. Through a fun and engaging story, Duncan learns that each of his crayons are unique and each has different needs. It teaches Duncan how it might feel to walk in someone else shoes and how he can resolve different conflicts through communication. 

Wild Boy by Rob Lloyd Jones is a thrill ride of a mystery. Set in Victorian London, Wild Boy must solve a crime he has been falsely accused of and save London in the process before time runs out. Unlikely friendship and twists and turns meant I couldn't put this book down! I was on the edge of my seat from the first page until the last.

My favourite book is “Hairy Maclary from Donaldson’s dairy”. 

I love the use of alliteration and that all the dogs in it have rhyming names and they are all scared of the cat!

11th March - Y6 Trip to Bletchley Park

12th &13th March - Parent Consultations

12th March - Y4 River Study Trip

12th March - Y6 visit Abbots Hill

12th March - Governor Meeting in school

15th March - Red Nose Day

15th March - YR&Y1 Trip to Wildlife Park

19th March - Y3 Trip to Hudnall Park

25th March - Y3/4 Production (2.15pm)

26th March - Y3/4 Production (2.15pm)

26th March - Y2 Trip to Roald Dahl Museum

27th March - School Closes at 1.30pm for Easter

28th March - INSET Day

Good Shepherd Club—to book spaces at Breakfast or After School Club, please visit

http://www.goodshepherdclubs.co.uk/

Just a reminder that our Nursery applications for September are now open.  Due to lower local birth-rate, our numbers so far are not looking as strong for September.

If you know of anyone who may be looking for a place, please do suggest that they come and take a look!