Books for 9-11+

Age: 

9+

Setting: 

It's the scorching hot summer holidays in Luton, present day.

Main character: 

10 yr old Leo loves to dance and dreams one day of performing in The Lion King show. The only problem is, he has selective mutism and can't speak when anyone outside of his family is near. How will he ever perform in the end of summer dance show, let alone in the West End?

In three words: 

friendship / bravery / overcoming

Age: 

9+

Setting: 

The very ordinary town of Fairfield in the UK when something very extraordinary happens.

Main character: 

Star Boy (a young alien who crash lands while on a study tour learning about Earth), Wes (a boy who loves sci-fi and is finding it hard to make friends at school) and Kiki (a girl initially pleased to be part of the "it" crowd at secondary school).

In three words: 

sci-fi / friendship / warm

NB: 

The first in a series...

Age: 

8+

Setting: 

An extraordinary house on wheels, pulled by a moose and lived in by a bear and his friends is travelling north through a wintery landscape to find the northern lights.

Main character: 

Anthropomorphic animals including an elderly fox who loves creating art from anything she finds around her in the natural world. She hopes to see the northern lights before she dies. Other animals include an excitable young llama and a toucan whose beak always points north.

In three words: 

moving / entertaining / fable

NB: 

Contains themes of death and discussions about what happens when someone dies (this was the last book Strong wrote before passing away, written while fighting bone cancer).

Age: 

10+

Setting: 

Partly in London, in a school, homes and a local hospital, and partly in Kuwait when Safiya is able to magically enter her mum's childhood memories.

Main character: 

13yr old Safiya, who loves video games. She faces lots of challenges: her parents are divorced, her friendships seems to be changing and then her mum has a stroke which leaves her in a coma.

In three words: 

tender / magical / growing up

Age: 

10+

Setting: 

A modern day village in South Wales, mostly in parks, a local school and a rugby training ground.

Main character: 

Jimmy Joseph absolutely loves rugby - he spends every waking second thinking about it, watching it or playing it and his greatest dream is to one day play for the British and Irish Lions. However, a new PE teacher has joined the school and seems set on dashing Jimmy's dreams.

In three words: 

rugby / bullies / teams

NB:

first in a trilogy

Age: 

10+

Setting: 

Britain, in the great freeze of 1963, beginning in London and then moving to Cornwall and a beautiful ancient woodland there.

Main character: 

11 year old Maggie who suffers from a severe stammer but is able to speak freely with the precious animals she loves so much; and Rumpus the snow leopard cub.

In three words: 

eco-adventure / animals / inspirational

Age: 

9+

Setting: 

Modern day Milton Keynes with one twist: a dragon, the last one in the world, flies around the world and one day lands in Milton Keynes.

Main character: 

12yr old Yara isn't fussed about the dragon, she just cares about her younger sister, George, who is very ill in hospital. She doesn't have time for friends or hobbies - everything revolves around her sister. Until a dragon drops a dragon egg in her lap...

In three words: 

fantasy, family, adventure

Age: 

8+

Setting: 

A turtle sanctuary in the jungle of Costa Rica.

Main character: 

Silver is unhappy and lonely because her parents are unhappy - they've been trying for ages to have another baby and so Silver thinks she isn't enough of them. She loves climbing trees and is a very determined, independent young girl.

In three words: 

family, adventure, environment

Age: 

10+

Setting: 

An unspecified time and place with a medieval feel, ruled by a cruel king... rebellion is growing.

Main character: 

Rebel the dog! Loyal to his master, Tom, and incredibly brave.

In three words: 

Adventure, a different perspective, love

Age: 

10+

Setting: 

A town outside London, then a parallel, dark world where happiness is stolen so that only the most important people can experience it.

Main character: 

12yr old Maggie who has just had to move in with her kind but distant aunt after her parents' separation. When a stray cat starts speaking to her, she begins to accept that there is something different about her.

In three words: 

fantasy, happiness, friendship

Age: 

9+

Setting: 

1943 in the small town of Velp in the Netherlands, occupied by Nazi forces.

Main character: 

Edda is 14, bravely risking her life under Nazi occupation to work with the resistance, delivering newsletters and helping US airmen stranded behind enemy lines. Her character is based on the experiences of a young Audrey Hepburn.

In three words: 

wartime, resistance, courage

Age: 

9+

Setting: 

1920s New York City - the Prohibition Era with gangsters and a secretive underworld.

Main character: 

Vita has just arrived in NYC with her mum, determined to help her grandfather, whose property has been stolen from him by a rich gangster. Despite the disability she has (caused by polio), nothing will stop her!

In three words: 

a heist, friendship, action-packed

Age: 

9+

Setting: 

I can't tell you that - it's a secret

Main character: 

a mysterious narrator shares the story of 11 yr old survivalist, Cass, and her puzzle-solving friend, Max (real names altered for reasons of secrecy)

In three words: 

mysterious, exciting, original

Age: 

9-12

Setting: 

US middle school, present day

Main character: 

Bradley Chalkers, struggling with school, highly reactive to teachers, isolated, becoming a bully

In three words: 

heartwarming, thought-provoking, real-life

NB :

Sachar's more famous book, Holes, is very popular with my tutees!

Age: 

9-11

Setting: 

England (with a slight fantasy/ magical twist)

Main character: 

Mayowa, 10, a logosalter who can jump on books to release the power of words

In three words: 

original, inspiring, issue-focused

Age: 

8-11

Setting: 

a small rural village in Ethiopia, 

then Addis Ababa

Main character: 

Solomon, aged 11, dreams of representing Ethiopia in 

running events

In three words: 

inspiring, touching, illuminating

Age: 

11+

Setting: 

The north of England, present day

Main character: 

Aya is 11yr old talented ballet dancer. She and her family are assylum seekers, recently arrived from Syria

In three words: 

moving, thought provoking, inspirational

Age: 

10+

Setting: 

A fantasy world: a city which is a maze you might lose yourself in forever...

Main character: 

Benjamiah - a brave book lover - and his new friend Elizabella

In three words: 

original, compelling, fantasy

NB:

The first in a series...

Age: 

10+

Setting: 

A remote, isolated, unpopulated Arctic island (plus one polar bear)

Main character: 

April - a curious nature-lover whose father leaves her alone for hours if not days on end. Fiercely independent.

In three words: 

Exciting, climate-change, drama

Age: 

10+ (with a parent) or 12+ independently

Setting: 

London and Kent, 1939, 

World War 2

Main character: 

Ada was born with a club foot and her abusive mother has kept her locked in their one-room apartment her whole life. But there's a war coming and a chance to escape to the countryside with her brother. If only she can walk...

In three words: 

I need more than 3 for such a special book: deeply moving and inspiring

NB:

There's a book 2...

Age: 

9-11

Setting: 

1970s, London then a film set in France one long summer

Main character: 

10yr old Jenny who lives with her mum and then finds herself being cast in her first ever professional movie!

In three words: 

uplifting, happy, delicious

Age: 

10+

Setting: 

The ancient stone village of Skara Brae on the Isle of Orkney, during the Neolithic period

Main character: 

Kali and Brokan - siblings who try to save their village as a deadly storm approaches.

In three words: 

historical, fascinating, adventure

Age: 

9-12

Setting: 

England, in the months leading up to the Battle of Hastings in 1066.

Main character: 

Magnus, son of Harold (who will soon get that arrow through the eye) who is desperate to please his father but who doesn't like war.

In three words: 

thrilling, educational, imaginative

Age: 

10-13+

Setting: 

18th Century London, including at Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, specifically exploring the experiences of Black people at this time.

Main character: 

Lizzie (whose father is about to become the first Black actor to the perform the lead of Othello in the West End) and her new friend, Dido 

(based on real historical figures)

In three words: 

Whodunnit, thought-provoking, historical

NB

First in a series...

Age: 

10+

Setting: 

Mostly at Tregarren College - a centre of learning for children who have unusual and exciting magical abilities.

Main character: 

Dax - a young boy who lives with his uncaring step-mother. One day when accidentally locked in a shed, Dax turns into a fox...

In three words: 

magical, adventure, fun

NB

Very popular with my tutees, and the first in a series...

Age: 

10-13

Setting: 

The fantasy country of Brava, under the control of an evil tyrant who is on a quest to live forever.

Main character: 

Rachel, whose father has been shipped away to a hard labour camp for daring to stand up to the tyrant. She has a secret which could save her family... and her country.

In three words: 

fantasy, imaginative, enjoyable

Age: 

9+

Setting: 

1950s London (and beyond) soon after WWII

Main character: 

Peter Brown, a lonely only child whose parents don't spend much time with him and who, one day, transforms into a stray kitten! And the truly delightful Jennie, the older cat who takes him in and befriends him.

In three words: 

observant, original, classic, fun

Age: 

9-11

Setting: 

Wookey Hole caves in Somerset, and the whole underground world there waiting to be discovered.

Main character: 

Thoughtful, quiet and kind Eddie, who finds himself stuck in Somerset with his unwelcoming aunt and cousins while his mum is ill and needing time to recover.

In three words: 

imaginative, adventure, friendship

Age: 

9-11+

Setting: 

London, beginning at the London Eye, when a boy goes up in a pod... and never comes down again.

Main character: 

Ted, who has Autism Spectrum Disorder, loves the weather and is particularly fascinated by clouds. Hopefully, his analytical mind can solve the impossible...

In three words: 

detective, mystery, page-turner

NB:

Although Dowd sadly passed away, the fab Robyn Stevens is continuing the series...

Age: 

10-14

Setting: 

Britain, on the brink of WWII, 

then mostly on a trawler heading North to the Arctic.

Main character: 

Her mother left when she was very young, and Marina has been raised by her father. Now he wants her to go to boarding school so she can learn to be a lady - the last thing she wants!

In three words:

adventure, fairy-twist, family

Age: 

9+

Setting: 

Modern day (iphones, wifi etc) on a cruise ship as it embarks on its maiden voyage.

Main character: 

The famous Nancy Drew, although an older, more modern version than you might remember!

In three words: 

Mystery, light-hearted, fun

NB - 

I preferred the originals - nostalgia?

Age: 

9-12+

Setting: 

It's the summer holidays, visiting Nani where she lives at the top of a tower block in Nottingham, and flashbacks to Uganda in 1972 when ethnic Asians were forced to flee the country.

Main character: 

11yr old Xanthe who worries as her Nani is getting old and starting to become forgetful and confused

In three words: 

friendship, family, history, courage, understanding

Age: 

9+

Setting: 

Behind a mysterious door sketched in the air with a magic pencil, a whole new illustrated world awaits.

Main character: 

Since Peanut's dad went missing, everything has changed: she's had to move to a school where Maths rather than the Art she loves is the name of the game, and she feels more and more separate from her mum and brother.

In three words:

imaginative, adventure, beautiful illustrations!

NB:

The first in a trilogy - 

very popular with my tutees!

Age: 

9-12+

Setting: 

Modern day Britain, exploring the shocking challenges which face many children trapped in poverty - and hidden in plain sight.

Main character: 

Will, who lives with his father. Through a series of unfortunate events that are no one's fault, they have fallen into poverty and there seems to be no way out of the downward spiral.

In three words: 

moving, relevant, inspirational

NB:

This book has some very effective illustrations.

Age: 

10+

Setting: 

A very sophisticated AI has just been invented which can do anything from diffusing bombs to working complex equipment. But someone has hacked and reprogrammed the machine...

Main character: 

Dominic, whose super-clever mum is the machine's inventor. He must become a detective to find out who has sabotaged her machine...

In three words: 

thriller, relevant, exciting

NB:

Malorie Blackman, one of our best children's authors here in the UK, wrote this surprisingly relevant thriller over 20 years ago!

Age: 

8+

Setting: 

A somewhat romanticised version of the prairies of America in the late 1800s

Main character: 

The Ingalls Wilder are a pioneering family led by their father to build a home from scratch.

In three words:

semi-autobiographical, classic, interesting

NB

There are three books in the series

Age: 

9-12

Setting: 

A surbuban in the UK, mostly in Matthew's bedroom.

Main character: 

Matthew hasn't been to school for weeks: he's terrified of germs and spends his time obsessively cleaning his room and hands desperate to stop the compulsive thoughts about being clean. Then, a young toddler next door goes missing...

In three words: 

mental health, bravery, mystery

Age: 

9+

Setting: 

London, modern day. One morning something strange happens: the whole world has gone quiet and everyone is fast asleep… the roads are empty, no one is in sight and only one person seems to be awake.

Main character: 

Ana is feeling a bit down - for some reason, her once-best-friend Tio has turned into a bully and is making her life a misery.

In three words: 

sci-fi / mystery / friendship

Age: 

9+

Setting: 

The wintery, snowy woods of Russia just before the Revolution of 1917.

Main character: 

Young and brave Feo who, along with her mother, works to rewild injured wolves. When the Russian army imprisons her mother, Feo decides to do something about it...

In three words:

tension, excitement, bravery

Age: 

10+

Setting: 

A fictional Scottish village in the present day, with flashbacks to the Scottish Witch Trials of the 16th C.

Main character: 

11 yr old Addie has Autism Spectrum Disorder and is one of the bravest characters I've ever read about. When she finds out how witches used to be persecuted in Scotland, she is determined to make sure they are remembered.

In three words: 

neurodivergence, bravery, bullying

Age: 

10-adult!

A lovely up-to-date introduction to 10 of Shakespeare’s most popular plays. From Romeo and Juliet, to Henry V, A Midsummer Night’s Dream and The Tempest, Morpurgo retells these stories in an accessible and interesting style. Each is beautifully illustrated too.

I think this is an excellent book for children age 10 and up - all the way through to GCSE. Whatever your age, before seeing one of Shakespeare’s plays at the theatre or studying one in school, it is always a great idea to know the story and characters first. This is the ideal resource for that.

Age: 

9-12

Setting: 

A science lab where animal experiments take place and the local area.

Main character: 

A genius mouse, Clementine, who is the result of a scientific experiment and who grew up in a science lab. She's wise and funny and caring.

In three words:

funny, wise, heart-warming, insightful

NB:

I've loved all of her books!

Age: 

9-12

Setting: 

A vaguely medieval, fairy-tale version of England, beginning in a village where the local river is drying up...

Main character: 

Odo and his friend Eleanor find a talking sword at the bottom of the river which knights Odo on the spot. The trouble is, Eleanor is the one who has always wanted to be a knight!

In three words: 

fun, adventures, quests

NB:

I've read all of Garth Nix's books - another series I can recommend written with Sean Williams for this age group is the excellent Trouble Twisters.

Age: 

9+

Setting: 

A local nature reserve, and the secret bird hide there.

Main character: 

Twitch loves nature, birds in particular, and spends all his spare time watching them and caring for them. 

But he doesn’t just stand up for and protect birds… when he sees a boy being bullied (even though that boy is a bully himself), he can’t stand by and do nothing. So begins an unlikely friendship.

In three words: 

friendship, detective, nature

Age: 

8-11

Ian McEwan initially imagined these stories for his own children, then collected them into a short novel. He writes in the introduction that he hoped they would entertain the parents reading them aloud as much as the children listening…

Each chapter is a short story in the imagination of young Peter Fortune, whose ability to daydream is extraordinary.

Age: 

10-12+

Setting: 

The remote island of St Kilda and the tiny school there, as well as far-flung countries round the world like Brazil and Hong Kong

Main character: 

11 yr old Alice, who loves the environment.

In three words: 

eco-adventure, unusual, sci-fi twist

NB:

This is book 1 of a trilogy.

Age: 

10+

Setting: 

An impoverished neighbourhood in Chicago, modern day. 

Main character: 

A ghost: 12 yr old Jerome was killed just before the start of the book, shot by police.  As well as other ghosts including Emmett Till.

In three words: 

Moving, racism, tough realities

NB:

Worth reading alongside your child for discussion.

Age: 

9+

Setting: 

The modern world, and a seemingly perfect parallel universe - a world without war, where humankind have worked hard to save the world rather than destroy it. 

Main character: 

Willa and her new friend Manny: brave and curious.

In three words:

environment, sci-fi, fun

NB:

All of his books are excellent - a mix of realism, fantasy, adventure and drama, perfect for children in years 5-6. 

Age: 

11+

Setting: 

Mid-twentieth century England and a remote island in the Caribbean.

Main character: 

When young Jim Hawkins finds a pirate treasure map, his adventures begin! 

In three words: 

classic, swashbuckling, adventure

NB:

A great way for children to extend their vocab and grapple with an older style text.

Age: 

10-11+

Setting: 

Starting secondary school in modern day UK.

Main character: 

Edie is about to start secondary school with her best friend. If that's not nerve-racking enough, for Edie, sometimes things can be extra challenging since she has cerebral palsy which can make speaking and walking tough. But she’s never let that get in her way…!

In three words: 

growing up, frienship, disabilities

Age: 

7-9

Setting: 

Inside a video game!

Main character: 

Flo, video game player extraordinaire with a genius mum

In three words: 

entertaining, fun, exciting

Age: 

9-12

Four young and exceptionally talented orphans pass a series of tests and are chosen to become part of a mysterious and secretive organisation. They’ve been recruited to investigate the evil Ledroptha Curtain, and to stop his plans to take over the world before it’s too late!

I enjoyed this - with a twist on what seems like every page and likeable characters, it certainly kept me interested. 

Worth noting, though, that this is a chunky book - and if your child isn’t used to longer books, they may find the size of this off-putting. 

Age: 

11-13

I recently re-read this book from my own childhood which was also a big favourite with my (English teacher) mum.

Toby Jenkins hates going to boarding school, and deeply misses his family. He longs to be on the school rugby team but thinks it’s never going to happen… until he meets Christopher. the new boy says he has special powers. Will there be a miracle…?

A good book to talk about so - as a parent - you might like to read it too so you can chat with your son/daughter!

Age: 

8+

 Set in London during the Blitz, this is an exciting historical novel. 

It follows the fate of two puppies born in the underground during a bombing raid. But more than that, it draws together a whole host of characters who love animals, and who work together for the PDSA rescuing animals affected by the Blitz. 

Any child interested in animals, in history or in a compelling adventure will love this book!

Age: 

10+

Ideal for ages 10+, this is a book about being different, about being anything perceived as “not normal” by the people around you. It challenges us to think about what normal is, and to celebrate our differences rather than using them as reasons to bully and look down on others. 

Barnaby’s parents are obsessed with being “normal” and they never want to stand out from the crowd. That’s a problem, because when Barnaby is born it’s clear he has a unique gift - he floats! Unfortunately for him, his parents are horrified and eventually they decide he has to go, letting him loose to float off into the sky and hopefully never be seen again…

Age: 

9-12

A non-fiction recommendation today, ideal for children age 9-12 who care about our environment and want to find out more about what they can do to help when doing so often seems so daunting. 

Clearly written, This Book Will (Help) Cool The Climate by Isabel Thomas takes the reader through 50 practical steps we can follow to help protect the Earth. From making personal decisions (like trying to buy less) to ideas for speaking out and persuading others to take action, this booked is packed with useful ideas. 

Age: 

10-12+

What a beautiful book. Set in the USA, in a dystopian (we hope) future, this moving drama tells the story of 12 year old Peter and his pet fox, Pax. I say pet - but Peter and Pax are much more closely bonded than that. 

As war threatens their home, Peter is forced to leave his friend in the wild and to move in with his grandfather. However, within hours of arriving, he realises his dreadful mistake and sets off on foot for the 400mile journey to find Pax. 

Each chapter alternates between the boy’s perspective and the fox’s - a clever way of showing their deep bond, and the way that they are being forced to change by circumstance. 

I would highly recommend this book for children either coming to the end of Year 6 or in Year 7. It’s moving and contains some scenes of violence (a fox is badly injured by a landmine, for instance). 

Age: 

9-11

Last summer [2022], when I was cycling along the Danube, I saw storks for the first time, and travelled through villages that seemed obsessed with them. When telling my good friend about them, she recalled a book she had enjoyed in childhood and kindly lent it to me. 

The Wheel on the School by Meindert DeJong is set in the little Dutch village of Shora, so small that there are only 6 children at the local school. In Shora, storks never come to nest, despite returning year upon year to other local villages. Storks are lucky, and young Lina is determined that they will come to Shora… 

Despite its age (first published in 1954) this book remains an enjoyable read.

Age: 

9+

A fun sci-fi adventure, The Infinite by Patience Agbabi, suitable for ages 9+. 

Leaplings - people born on the 29th Feb - are rare, but rarer still are those born with The Gift — the ability to leap through time. Elle has The Gift but has never used it - now it’s her 12th birthday and it’s time to leap through time with other leaplings to visit the Time Squad Centre in 2048!

There’s much to like about this book. Aside from the exciting story, it was also good to read an adventure story where children with autism are the heroes. 

Age: 

10-13

 I heartily enjoyed this adventure story. It made me realise how many of the books written for children are issue based… While this is incredibly important so that children can think about and grapple with big issues, developing their own opinions and ideas and being exposed to things which they may be protected from in their own lives, it’s still nice to read a book for pure escapism once in a while. 

And this book certainly gives that! It follows Alanna, a twin who is desperate to be a knight and not to follow in the path expected of girls in her land. So… she swaps places with her twin brother, disguises herself as a boy and heads off to court to train as a knight. Throw in some adventures, magic, a baddie… and you have all the ingredients you need for a very enjoyable story. 

Age: 

8-12

Happy new year [January 2023]! And what better way to usher in the new year, and to cheer up the sometimes gloomy months of January and February than with this short story collection of Winter Magic collated by Abi Elphinstone. 

Suitable for ages 8-12, these are delightful short stories. Some are magical, some in our real world but all are charming, exciting and joyful. 

Age: 

9+

Let’s be honest - I don’t always love every children’s book I read and sometimes I really have to see things from a kid’s point of view. When a tutee recommended Cate Shearwater’s 

“Somersaults and Dreams” to me and I collected it from the library, all I could think of was: it’s very pink!! Way too girly for me!!

And goodness was I wrong! I loved this book! And it’s a real shame the cover is so pink, as I would imagine that any child with a dream - whether that’s to be a gymnast like the girl in the book, an actor, singer, dancer, footballer, architect (as one 10yr old student announced recently)…. any dream that requires work and dedication from a young age - would love this book!

It follows young Ellie as she moves from her home in Cornwall to London to join a gymnastics academy, the friends she makes, the trials and challenges she faces etc. It’s exciting and real and fun and interesting. 

Suitable for ages 9+. Enjoy and… don’t judge a book by its cover!

Age: 

10-12

Perfect for children ages 10-12 who enjoy a good, “real-life” story. 

In the middle of the night, with no warning or explanation, Becket and his brother are woken by their Dad and moved to a new flat. Why isn’t their step-mother coming? Why aren’t they allowed to phone her?

Alone and confused, and starting a new school on top of all of that, the two brave boys set out to try and find what’s going on. On top of this, Becket is preoccupied with how to finally say a goodbye to his mum (she died in childbirth with his brother). 

I thought this was a great book - about grief, sibling love, bravery, and the importance of being open with children and telling them the truth. It’s a good adventure story too, with some exciting moments!

Age: 

9-11

Thanks - as ever - to my amazing tutees who are always telling me about the books they are reading! 

Who doesn’t love a bit of time travel? - or in this case, more of a time slip… Charlie’s feelings are all a bit mixed up: he’s just about to turn 12, he’s got the baby brother he’s longed for due any sec, then the baby turns out to have a heart condition and all his churning emotions get a bit too much. So he runs to his safe place in the woods near his home. 

But something strange happens and he finds himself in… the Stone Age!!

I enjoyed this a lot! A lovely mix of exciting adventures and learning about what really matters.

Age: 

9-11

This starts as a straightforward story: Ami arrives at an escape room for a game gifted to her by her dad. She meets the other kids taking part and they head into the first room. It quickly becomes apparent that this is no ordinary escape room… it develops very quickly into a life or death mission to save the world!

Thrilling and unputdownable, this does have an underlying message too, and a very surprising ending that few will guess!

Age: 

10-12

11year old October lives off grid in the woods with her dad. For her, her life is perfect: she lives as wildly as she can, learning about nature and how to survive as far as possible without interacting with town or city life. October’s mother wasn’t able to live like this, and lives in London. October feels abandoned by her and refuses to see her or speak to her. 

On October’s twelfth birthday, her father is horribly injured in a fall from a tree. October is forced to leave her home and live with her mother in the city. Everything frightens her, everything feels wrong. 

Will she ever be able to make friends and adapt to this new life? Will she ever acknowledge her mother? Will her life ever return to the woods? You’ll have to read it to find out!

Well written and thought provoking. This is one for children who enjoy real-life reads and who don’t necessarily need a lot of action.

Age: 

9-11

Loved this book by the American author, Jason Reynolds. Look Both Ways was recommended to me by one of my lovely students. Suitable for ages 9-11, it’s a series of short, standalone stories which nevertheless connect in little details which are fun to look out for. 

All the children featured in the stories live in the same neighbourhood, attending the same school. With ten stories, you get ten unique walks home from school. Ten little glimpses into these children’s lives: their worries and motivations, thoughts and routines. 

Thoroughly enjoyable, and perhaps particularly good for children who struggle to follow or concentrate on a full length book.

Age: 

9-11

Poor Archie Crumb hasn’t had much look in life so far: his parents have divorced and his father remarried, and now his mum is suffering badly from depression and is unable to get out of bed most days. All the cleaning, shopping and cooking falls to him - that’s a lot to take when you’re only 10. 

One day, when cycling home from his best friend’s house, he falls and hits his head. His favourite footballer appears before him and grants him 9 wishes… How will Archie use them?!

Despite dealing with some tricky topics, this is actually a light-hearted and fun book because Archie himself is so likeable and deals with things so humorously. It does have a happy ending and so it’s a rewarding read for children, while simultaneously sharing some useful thoughts about friendship, honesty and being hopeful. 

Age: 

11+

I’ve just finished this brilliant book which caught my eye when I was in my local library the other day. 

Kick by Mitch Johnson is an excellent novel for children in Years 6 and 7 especially. Set in Indonesia, it tells the story of young Budi, a boy who is passionate about football and dreams of nothing else. 

But Budi and his family live in great poverty, and his work at the local factory (ironically) sewing together football boots is long and arduous. With earthquakes, illness, local gangs and corrupt police officers, how will he ever pursue his dream?

I thought this was just great! A tense and moving story that will fire imaginations whilst also painting a vivid picture of what life is like for some children living in poverty. 

Age: 

8-11

Another book from my childhood shelf, this edition actually illustrated by one of my Mum’s old friends!

Your Guess Is As Good As Mine by Bernard Ashley is an ideal read for reluctant readers age 8-11 since it’s pretty short so not overwhelming. 

It’s a precautionary tale, about a young boy called Nicky who gets in the wrong car, mistaking it for his Dad’s in his eagerness to escape a thunder storm. 

Short but with an exciting story and some slightly more challenging vocab, definitely one for those who don’t enjoy reading as much!

Age: 

9+

Terry Deary is one of the Horrible Histories authors, but it turns out he writes other books too…! 

The Silver Hand is set in France during World War One.

Young Aimee finds out that her mum is working as a spy for the British, reporting about German troop movements, so she decides to help too. Her adventures include reluctantly befriending a young German boy called Marius, evading enemy agents and travelling through enemy territory. It’s an exciting book, not too hard to follow and will give young readers ages 9+ a first taste of what it was like towards the end of the war in France. 

Age: 

8+

Surprisingly, this was the first book by Baddiel I’ve read, but he’s always been popular with my students and when one was telling me recently about this particular story, I couldn’t resist. 

Suitable for ages 8+, Future Friend begins in the year 3020 where we meet Pip and learn about life 1000 years in the future. When her parents invent a time portal, Pip falls through, landing in 2019 where she meets young inventor extraordinaire Rahul. Together (plus a talking bird and cat!), they must find a way to get Pip home, without anyone finding out where she’s really from…

A fun, imaginative and entertaining story.

Age: 

9+

I’ve recommended books by the marvellous Onjali W Raúf before, and I’m sure I’ll do so again next time she publishes! She’s such a good author for dealing with some of the challenging and complex issues of modern society in a way that will help children understand and develop their own thoughts and ideas. 

The Night Bus Hero is no exception, exploring issues of homelessness, prejudice and bullying in a story setting that children will find accessible and exciting. Interestingly, the central character is a bully - I’m not sure I’ve read a novel where that happens before - and it’s interesting watching him grow and develop in understanding about who he wants to be. 

Suitable for ages 9+ (particularly Years 5 and 6). 

Age: 

10-11+

My mum kindly lent me this lovely book for ages 10-12… perfect for those in Year 5 preparing for the 11+. 

It is set during Worls War II as Olive and her younger brother are finally evacuated from the dangers of London. Their lives are in turmoil - their soldier father has died, and their sister is missing following bombing in the Blitz. 

But Olive is convinced her sister is still alive and, after finding a coded message in her sister’s coat, she is determined to solve the mystery and find out where she really is. 

As well as being a dramatic story with characters you really care about, this lovely book has some brilliant things to say about the need to welcome refugees that are as resonant now as in 1942. 

Enjoy…

Age: 

7+

It’s been a long time since I’ve recommended a book for younger readers… but today’s three short story collection The Marble Crusher by Michael Morpurgo is one. 

Suitable for ages 7+ these are three short but sweet and thought-provoking stories which are a brilliant way to encourage children to actively engage with stories. Use them as a basis for interesting conversations, and maybe even to create stories together…

Age: 

10+

A book that always seems to be a bit hit with my students in Years 5 and 6 (10+), particularly with boys who have otherwise not been avid readers. I can’t put my finger on what it is precisely, but there’s something about this book that is particularly compelling for this age group… and it’s of interest all the way through to adulthood too. 

Poor Stanley’s family has always suffered from bad luck, so when he gets sent to a Juvenile Dentention Centre in the middle of the Texan desert, he’s really not that surprised. In the camp, detainees are made to dig a deep hole in the sand each day and report back anything that they find. It seems like a pointless, punishing task, but Stanley soon finds out there’s more to it than that...

And if they enjoy the book, you can watch the film together too!

Age: 

8+

Well, I sat down to read Warrior Cats by Erin Hunter thinking I really wouldn’t enjoy it… One of my newer and very delightful 11+ students is currently on a mission to read all the books in the various series (which he reliably informs me is 48 books?!?!) and he seemed pleased when I said I would add the first one to my list to order from the library…

And what a pleasant surprise I had! From the opening page, I was impressed by the vocab and description used, and intrigued by the story. In this, the first, we follow pet cat, Rusty (although soon to be renamed Firepaw), as he is invited by a clan of wildcats to train as a warrior cat. Feeling, as he always has, the urge to hunt and explore, he boldly leaps at the chance. 

But the clan he has joined have problems… both within their own ranks, and from the threat of Shadow Clan. Will Firepaw become a warrior, will he earn his place in the clan, and will they survive…?

So much fun - for stronger readers aged 8+, otherwise 9-12. Particularly good for boys, I would think - and how good if they enjoy them and have a 48 book series to enjoy?!

Age: 

10+

I’m so pleased to be able to share this fantastic book - Check Mates by Stewart Foster - which I devoured in one sitting. And so pleased one of my lovely tutees told me about it! I shall certainly be searching out more books by this author. 

Felix has just started at secondary school and is finding things tough - partly because his parents are stressed out and working non-stop, partly because he misses his Grandmother who sadly passed away and partly because of his ADHD. No matter how much he wants to do well at school and no matter how much he concentrates, his mind just wonders and he keeps getting into trouble. 

Now his parents want him to spend every second with his Grandfather, who picks him up from school in a bright pink car, expects him to help with boring chores like mowing the lawn and now wants him to play chess!! 

The magic of the relationship between the two is excellently described and explored. And there is added drama and mystery because of the East German Granddad’s secret past. 

Age: 

11+

What a brilliant novel for ages 11+ (probably more aimed at girls). 

I’d been recommended this author by a number of my students, and finally got round to ordering this from the library. It tells the story of 12yr old Maya, who lives in Cornwall with her mum and dad. She loves surfing but, because her younger brother died and she herself had a near-death experience with a bus, her mum is very reluctant to give her any freedom. They always wanted another child, though, and have decided to adopt… that’s when 10yr old Cat joins their family. Now, you can’t get to 10 living in foster care without having been through a lot. We follow what happens to this lovely family as they welcome a new member. 

Brilliant for 11 and up kids who enjoy real-life dramas. Enjoy!

Age: 

11+

Although first published in 2000, Marcus Sedgwick’s Floodland is an extremely topical novel suitable for 11+ readers and of interest to ages 11-14. 

Set in the near future, it paints a picture of an England (and an entire world) drowning in the rising seas. Zoe, our central character, lives alone on the island of Norwich, left behind by her parents in their rush to escape on the last boat. When she finds a derelict boat, she must repair it and set off into the unknown if she is going to survive and be reunited with her parents once more. 

This is a really compelling story - I hope you enjoy reading it!

Age: 

8+

A classic book recommendation today, which I hadn’t read since I was a child myself!

Heidi by Johanna Spyri needs no introduction from me. It’s suitable for ages 8+ but does have some relatively tricky vocabulary so might be best read with a parent at this age. The vocab makes this an ideal book for those preparing for the 11+ and I have seen a number of reading comprehensions based on extracts from it. I suspect the subject matter will be of more interest to girls than boys. 

I enjoyed my re-read!- Heidi is like the Pollyanna of Switzerland: optimistic, bright, loving, kind and inspiring. 

Age: 

9+

Piers Torday always seems to be a popular author with my Year 5-6 students. I’ve enjoyed reading his Last Wild series in the past, and now I can definitely recommend The Lost Magician for ages 9+. 

Set in England just after the Second World War, it follows a family of 4 siblings who spend the summer in a massive old house in the countryside. With nods to The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, the children discover a secret library hidden in the attic of the house and are transported to a world where fictional characters are real. But war is brewing here too - can the children come together and help save this magical world?

Age: 

11+

When one of my lovely Yr5 11+ students mentioned she had just read this book, I couldn’t believe that I hadn’t read it already!

Nala’s World by Dean Nicholson is a non-fiction account of Dean’s bike ride around the world during which he found, rescued and proceeded to travel with a cute little kitten called Nala. It’s difficult to put an age recommendation on this book, but my 9year old student certainly enjoyed it! A warning that it does refer to drinking alcohol, taking weed and getting into fights - Dean’s life didn’t have much direction before he started cycling. However, these are brief and he discusses how much cycling helped him. I’d recommend it for Year 6 plus - and I really mean the plus as anyone interested in travelling and or cats would enjoy this 😊

Apart from the fact that his story is so interesting and his cat is so cute (there are some great photos in the book!), this is an inspiring read for young people because of its simple but effective messages. Dean learns lots of lessons as he rides about what’s really important in life. Because he becomes a social media sensation with Nala, he finds himself in the position where he can raise money and awareness for charities around the world. He deals with this responsibility in a really self-less and humble way which is inspiring.

Age: 

11+

One of my lovely Year 5 tutees is a big fan of Jacqueline Wilson. As we were chatting about the book she was reading, I realised I had never actually read a book by Wilson so I set about remedying the situation. 

And I’m so glad I did as Vicky Angel is a real gem of a book. Although my tutee has read this one too, I think I’d recommend it for Years 6-7 (or particularly mature Year 5s). 

Jade has always been in the shadow of her best friend, Vicky. She admires everything about her, and can’t imagine future life without her. So when Vicky is killed in a car crash as they are walking home from school, Jade’s whole world is destroyed. 

Jade is so grief-stricken that she begins seeing and talking to Vicky’s ghost. But is this really Vicky? As the ghost gets more and more nasty and demanding, Jade must finally fight free of her grief to find out who she really is and to find her own confidence. 

I thought this book was excellent, tackling these challenging issues in a believable, moving and sensitive way. I’d highly recommend it! 

(Warning: if a child has lost someone close to them, this book might be too tough a read so I’d strongly suggest a parent reads it first.)

Age: 

9-12+

A big thanks to one of my recent 11+ students for recommending The Secret Hen House Theatre by Helen Peters - she’s read it twice over the past month and I can see why as it’s absolutely the kind of book I would have loved at her age 😊

Hannah lives on an old, working farm with her Dad and 3 siblings. Her mum died when she was younger and now much of the caring falls in Hannah: cooking meals, sewing on buttons and generally looking after her brother and sisters. Hannah is also an aspiring writing and actress, spending every spare second pursuing these hobbies. 

When she and her best friend, Lottie, hear about a local theatre competition they decide to enter. Will they be able to get the new theatre in the old hen house ready before the competition date? Will they manage to do it secretly without her Dad finding out? Will they win the prize and help save the farm?

A really fun book for ages 9-12 - especially aspiring writers and actors! Enjoy!

Age: 

9-11+

One of my lovely students recommended this so I immediately added it to my ever-growing list of books to order from the library. 

Now, by mistake, I ordered the second book in the series… don’t make the same mistake as me, as this very much continues the story so it is important to read them in order!

That being said, I really really enjoyed this book. It’s a very original and thrilling fantasy story - Flick has a part time job for The Strangeworlds Travel Agency - custodians of hundreds of suitcases which can transport you to other worlds. 

In this second book, one such world - peopled by pirates and mermaids - is shrinking. Can Flick work with her friends to save its inhabitants before their world disappears?!

This was such an entertaining book and I’d heartily recommend it for ages 10+. As well as being highly imaginative and exciting, it’s very well written too. And there are some fun parts for any parents reading too… my favourite phrase: “When the chamber pot hits the propeller” 😂 

Age: 

9-11+

Perfect for ages 9-11, this book follows young Cole as he determines to help his family any way he can. They are particularly poor - struggling to pay for clothing and heating - and his mum is about to lose her job. But poor Cole gets caught in a lie when certain events just spiral out of his control. 

I liked this book a lot! With themes of poverty in the UK, bullying, family and friendship, it’s a thought-provoking read as well as being a dramatic page-turner too!- a winning combination!

Age: 

9-11+

Poor Barney Willow is having a tough time of things: his parents are divorced, his dad has gone missing, he’s being bullied at school and the new headmistress has got it in for him. In fact, his life is so bad, he’d just rather be a cat!

Unfortunately for Barney, this wish comes true, and he exchanges bodies with a cat! It turns out life is just as tough for cats… Will he be able to wish himself back?!

A fun book about courage, friendship and finding the positives. Enjoy!

Age: 

11-14

Set during the Blitz, it follows 12yr old Joseph who is sent to London rather than away into the safety of the countryside. He is an angry angry boy - his mother left when he was young, his father has been sent to war, and now his grandmother has had enough of him and has packed him off to live with a complete stranger who seems just as angry with life as he is. 

But Mrs F runs a zoo and slowly but surely she, his new friend and Adonis the silverback gorilla help him to open up about the things that hurt him and make him so angry with the world. 

A brilliant book - beautifully written, developed and believable characters, and exciting action to boot. 

Age: 

9+

Young Nona lost her whole family in the Blitz and now lives with her uncle, a stained glass window maker. They travel round together, making repairs, and replacing windows broken during the war. 

Then, one night, she discovers that her uncle has been put under a spell. He drives them to the lonely moors, to an abandoned church, where they set to work. Here, Nona discovers a wild and frightening magic that could destroy everything - and she is the one destined to stop it. 

I enjoyed this magical book about the power of love and friendship, and finding courage. Enjoy!

Age: 

9+

An October appropriate book today!- I wanted to suggest something vaguely ghostly, and have very much enjoyed a re-read of Helen Cresswell’s Moondial which I enjoyed as a child.

It’s a ghost and time-travel story about the power of friendship and love. Don’t worry, it’s not remotely scary!

Minty Cane is spending the summer in sleepy Belton. She has always believed she’s a witch as she’s always seen/felt/heard ghostly presences (not that she’s scared of them). Now, in the grounds of a grand old house, she stumbles across a sun dial - a moon dial in fact as she finds it by night - and it takes her back in time. She meets and befriends Tom, a sickly kitchen boy, and then - even further back in time - Sarah, who believes she’s been marked by the devil.

Will she find a way to free them from misery before it’s too late? Will she be trapped out of her own time forever? You’ll have to read it to find out!!

Age: 

9-11

This does not let up with the action from page one, when Arthur, Ren and Cecily find themselves transported across time and space into the distant future when they try to rescue a dog trapped in an abandoned house. 

They soon work out that they are trapped in a reality adventure game called Wonderscape, filled with wanderers trying to complete missions, and peopled with heroes from Earth’s history. How will they get home? Will they survive the challenges and puzzles of the Wonderscape? Will they learn to work together and become friends in time?

Loved this book - really was non-stop action. There are some fun facts included as various heroes are introduced, and also some good lessons hidden in there about fears and friendship. I would recommend this for children aged 9-11. 

Enjoy! Travel with Wonder…

Age: 

8+

A rare non-fiction recommendation from me today, as I don’t tend to read much myself! However, one of my lovey tutees mentioned she was reading (and enjoying) Adam Kay’s Kay’s Anatomy, so I thought I’d read it too!

It’s great fun - Kay takes the reader through all the different parts of the human body, with clear and interesting explanations, fun jokes and myth-busting facts. There are some great illustrations, too, which also help to make this a really fun read. 

Suitable for ages 8+ but I would think most enjoyable for children in Years 5&6. They’ll soon have you wowed with some fantastic facts!

Age: 

9-11

What a lovely lovely book! A delightful character-led adventure story perfect for ages 9-11. 

Set in the aftermath of World War I, it tells the story of orphans Ben and Lotti who become firm friends despite their very different personalities. They each have their own quests to find family and a safe haven from the difficulties they face, quests which take them to France travelling all the way by narrow boat. 

I challenge you not to enjoy this book! Personally, I think you’ll devour it in one sitting. It’s a delight!

Age: 

9+

I know that a number of my tutees have a reading challenge this summer to read as many books as possible set in other countries! So today’s recommendation set in Italy could be a good one to add to the list.

This is an exciting, plot-driven story which follows young Sofia and her little brother on an adventure through Siena and its spooky underground tunnels. 

Sofia’s mum is an ossuarist - a magic bone binder. Just before she goes missing, she gives Sofia a precious bone locket. 

Why is it so important? Where is their mother? Will they escape the eerie orphanage where they’ve basically been imprisoned?

Plenty of action and danger to entertain and intrigue! Enjoy!

Age: 

9+

I’ve been using a passage from this book as a comprehension with my tutees for a while now, and have finally got round to reading the book!

This is actually the second book of the series, so I would suggest reading Varjak Paw first (although I haven’t read this). 

Varjak Paw - the hero of our tale - is a cat. In the first book, he’s a young kitten - a pet cat stuck indoors who dreams of being free and wild. In the second book, he’s living on the streets with his friends but winter is thick with snow and they’re finding it hard to get enough to eat. Things are made worse by their evil rival gang led by the unbeatable Sally Bones who wants to control all cats. 

They’re outnumbered in the fights… will Varjak be able to lead his group to fight for freedom, or will they die in the attempt?

This is an exciting book, with some good vocab and imaginative events which should prove to be a pleasurable read. 

Age: 

9+

Thanks to one of my tutees for suggesting I read this...

Madame Pinchbeck travels Victorian England conjuring the spirits of dearly departed loved ones for wealthy clients, tricking them and taking the opportunity to steal from their houses too. 

But there is real magic going on, despite all her tricks - Pinchbeck ensnares children, traps a little piece of their soul in a precious object, and can make them disappear into that object at her will. 

However, when she captures orphan Leander, events are set in motion which mean he, and his new friends Felix and Charlotte, must find a way to release themselves before one of them vanishes forever. 

An exciting Victorian adventure! Enjoy!

Age: 

9+

Please please read this brilliant book - suitable for ages 9+, but one which anyone over that age should read. 

11year old Tally is autistic and the book follows her anxieties and difficulties as she begins secondary school, negotiating friendships, new surroundings and teachers. As a reader, you care greatly for Tally - although her actions from the outside may be difficult to understand (for example she may come across as angry), we are privileged to hear her thoughts and to know what’s really going on inside. 

The book was written in collaboration with a young blogger called Libby who is herself autistic. It contains sections of journal written by her which provide a valuable insight into her perspective of being autistic. 

At a story level, this book was an enjoyable, heart-warming, real-life drama. But I also found it to be thought-provoking and challenging in that it made me question my own assumptions about autism. Which is why it seems like such an important read for everyone!

Age: 

9+

A bit of a strange time to be recommending a book with Christmas in the title, but this one is too good to postpone!

Having enjoyed Matt Haig’s Midnight Library (written for adults), I was pleased to discover that he also writes for children equally as brilliantly!

Young Nikolas (nicknamed Christmas by his father as that was the day of his birth) comes from a poor family, and his mother was killed by a bear when he was younger. Nevertheless, he believes in magic and elves, goodness and happiness - even though he hasn’t experienced much of the latter himself. 

When his father goes off on an expedition to prove that elves are real and doesn’t return home, Nikolas sets off on the impossible journey to find him...

I really enjoyed this book. It’s simple and exciting, yet full of positive messages. I don’t think you need to wait until Christmas to read it (although it is a Christmas story!). 

Age: 

9-11

Sometimes it’s just so lovely to go back and read a book you loved as a child, and in the last couple of days I’ve been lucky enough to do just that, enjoying every page of Diana Wynne Jones’s Howl’s Moving Castle. 

Sophie believes that as the eldest of 3 sisters, she’s destined never to succeed. And when she is cursed by the wicked Witch of the Waste to age instantly into an older woman, it seems her fate is sealed. It seems that only the dreaded Wizard Howl, who lives in a moving castle, can break the curse, so Sophie heads out on a quest to find him. 

She finds adventures and excitement with Howl, his fire demon, Calcifer, and apprentice Michael. There are curses to break, spells to weave, witches to defeat, a king to meet... It seems that Sophie’s life is going to be more exciting than she thought after all!

A brilliant, clever, funny, exciting fantasy story from this gem of a writer. 

Age: 

7-9

I expect fans of Harry Potter might already have read this one, but today’s book recommendation - The Ickabog by J K Rowling - couldn’t be more different than the author’s famous series. 

For a start, it’s aimed at younger children - ages 7-9, although I expect it’ll be of interest for the whole family. It’s also been written to be read aloud, and so it’s perfect as a family bedtime read (the chapters are a perfect length for this). 

The Ickabog is a fairy story, set in the mythical land of Cornucopia. It’s surprisingly dark, exploring how a few evil, selfish people in power can almost destroy a whole country, but good triumphs in the end. 

The book is a beautiful one, too, with lots of pictures from children around the world. 

Age: 

10+

Why have I waited so long to read Nightspeakers by Ali Sparkes when so many of my students have raved about it?! Finally, I ordered it from the library and devoured yesterday in one sitting - hurrah for a stormy bank holiday and an excuse to curl up on there sofa!

Well, my tutees were not wrong... I loved this book, the first in a series of 4 so far (next job on the list is to order book 2). 

From the first page, I found the characters to be incredibly well drawn and likeable. They’re an unlikely mix of teenage troublemaker, Matt; quiet, hard-working Elena; and young actress, 10 year old Tima. But they’re all drawn together by the one thing they have in common: every night at 1.34am exactly they wake up and can’t go back to sleep. 

In trying to solve this tiring phenomenon, they become the best of friends. They have night time adventures, discover new gifts of being able to communicate with animals - hence the name Night Speakers - and must battle together to defeat a newly woken underworld god. Oh, and there’s a vampire too... Sounds ridiculous, I know, but it all comes together perfectly to create a fabulous, exciting story with characters you care deeply about and feel you know so well. 

I would highly recommend this book for ages 10+ (the students who recommended it to me were in Year 5 and 6 at the time) but feel it would be of interest through to age 14. I mean - let’s face it - I loved it 😊

Enjoy!

(Picks up coffee and opens next book...)

Age: 

8+

Let’s face it - I kid myself that I only read children’s books for these reviews but I’m very glad of the excuse!

I recommended another book by Carlow Sorosiak not that long ago, and now I’m back to recommend her lovely I, Cosmo which is a fun and joyful read for ages 8+. 

The story is told by Cosmo, a 13year old golden retriever, who loves his owners more than anything. There are dance competitions to win, adventures to be had, and his family to be saved (the parents are on their way to a divorce). It’s a heart-warming read, with many clever observations about dog behaviour which will have the whole family smiling. 

Age: 

9+

A fun fantasy murder mystery full of weird and wonderful characters. 

Poor Seth works as a kitchen boy in a hotel run by the horrible Bunn family. He has no friends and dreams of one day being able to escape his horrible life. When a VIP guest is murdered with magic, Seth finds that he is the number one suspect.  Will he be able to clear his name and discover who the real murderer is in time? 

There’s a bit of everything in this book: magic, mystery, a talking cat... Hope you enjoy reading!

Age: 

10-12

Not - from the front cover - a book that I would usually pick up or expect to enjoy. However, I was very pleasantly surprised by this fun romp through a zombie/monster-apocalypse. 

The lead character, 13 year-old Jack, who tells his story of surviving alone with these monsters for 42days (and counting), has a fabulously dry sense of humour. He’s not your standard hero but is immensely likeable. The story is peppered with illustrations which truly become a part of the story-telling, rather than just forming additional decoration. 

And yes it’s just a bit of fun, and a gripping adventure, but you don’t have to look far for examples of bravery and friendship which make this book that little bit more special. 

Don’t worry, there’s nothing scary, and this would be great for children ages 10-12, especially reluctant readers!

Age: 

10+

The first book in the excellent classic series, The Dark is Rising. 

Despite being the first in the series, it definitely works as a standalone novel and is an excellent read for children ages 10+. (Note that the remaining books in the series are more suited to ages 11+ in my opinion in terms of interest level.)

On holiday in Cornwall, Simon, Jane and Barney discover an old treasure map in the house they are staying in. Soon they find themselves caught up in an ancient battle between good and evil as they seek the mysterious grail and aim to find it before the forces of the dark. 

This is a great book - a children’s classic. It combines a more traditional adventure story with aspects of fantasy and myth. And the description and language is brilliant too, making the words really come alive while also boosting vocab and imagination. 

I’m re-reading the whole series at the moment (I’ve lost count - think this is my fourth time?!) and loving it as much as ever. Something about the familiarity of returning to see an older friend... 

Age: 

8-13+

I’ve just been reading another excellent Garth Nix book (he really is one of my favourite children/young adult/adult fantasy writers. I’ve previously recommended his brilliant Seventh Tower series, but reading Angel Mage today has also reminded me of his brilliant The Keys to the Kingdom seven book series which begins with Mister Monday and is suitable for ages 8-13+ 

Garth Nix is just so good at world creating, transporting you instantly into his imaginative creations. In this, young Arthur Penhaligon (an unlikely hero) is thrust into a mystery when he is given a mysterious key and map by Mister Monday. When strange dog-like creatures called the Fetchers come to capture the key for themselves, Arthur must follow various clues to escape. It’s quite a surreal fantasy with elements of Alice in Wonderland, and very exciting. And with seven books in the series, a good choice to keep avid readers busy!

Age: 

9+

I feel like I’ve discovered treasure having read this delightful and truly special book. 

Leonard is an alien, part of a hive mind of pure intelligence. Every alien from his home planet is allowed to spend a month on Earth just before their 300th birthday. Leonard has been looking forward to this for years - planning his month as a Yellowstone Park Ranger, researching humanity, learning jokes.... But then it all goes wrong. Instead of the life he’d planned, he’s suddenly stuck in the body of a stray cat! Even worse, he’s thousands of miles from his pick up point... if he doesn’t get there by the right date, he’ll be stuck as a cat forever. 

This book is by turns funny, thought-provoking, exciting and moving. It’s the most imaginative story but at the same time there are some really thoughtful comments about what it means to be human, what a true family is and what’s special about our planet. 

I loved it (if you couldn’t tell already!). Just what I needed in this long long lockdown. Enjoy!

Age: 

9+

Just the most brilliant author..

Although suitable for 9+ I would recommend, though, that this is read together rather than independently if your child is in year 5 or below, or if they are older but particularly sensitive, as it deals with the very challenging theme of domestic abuse which many children may find hard to understand. 

10year old Aniyah and her younger brother, Noah, have just been placed in emergency foster care following the murder of their mum by their father. This takes place before the start of the book and, along with the domestic abuse, is only hinted at rather than given in any detail - there are some hints which I think would go over some children’s heads which is why this book remains suitable for a young age. 

They’ve been through so much trauma that, although they know their mum has died, they don’t remember the circumstances. Aniyah is fascinated by stars and wants to become a “star hunter” (much better job title than astronomer!) when she grows up, and she believes that when special people die, they are transformed into stars. When a new star appears in the sky, she is determined to travel to Greenwich before it is too late to make sure the star is correctly named after her mum. Along with her new friends from the foster home, Aniyah and her brother embark on an adventure from Oxford to London. Will they get to Greenwich in time?

I thought this was a great story - by turns thought-provoking, exciting, inspiring and moving.

Age: 

9-12

Thanks to my sister who gave me this beautiful looking book for Christmas! Today’s recommendation is A Pinch of Magic by Michelle Harrison - the first in a fun fantasy series following the three Widershins sisters, Betty, Fliss and Charlie. It’s a really fun book for ages 9-12. 

Betty is desperate for adventure and to travel the world, but when she discovers that the girls in the Widdershins family are cursed, never to leave the island of Crowstone, it seems that her dreams are ruined for ever. But, with the help of three magical objects, Betty is determined to break the curse once and for all...

I enjoyed this book very much! It’s a charming little tale, with three brave heroines at its heart.