SOUTH WALES EVENING POST CHILDREN'S BOOK REVIEW JANUARY 20-21

This week my children's book reviews include the memoir of an inspirational young dancer, a counting, rhyming pirate picture book, the adventures of a cheeky pigeon and a deliciously dark fairy fantasy.

Also in the Weekend section of The South Wales Evening Post.

Enjoy!

BOOK OF THE WEEK

GIRL ON POINTE BY CHLOE LUKASIAK

CHILDREN 10+

An insightful, charming and inspiring read from this young dancer and social media star. An eclectic mix of her likes (ballet, books and cookie dough!) and dislikes, how she dealt with bullies, her Dance Moms fame and the challenges of growing up. A relatable memoir full of photos, fun and useful facts and Chloe's poetry. A behind the scenes glimpse into what it is like to grow up in the spotlight.

ISBN 9781408896952 HB Bloomsbury £12.99

KNOCK KNOCK PIRATE BY CARYL HART & NICK EAST

PICTURE BOOK 4+

A jolly rhyming picture book about a little girl who is swept up in a swashbuckling adventure with some rather naughty pirates. This fun counting book is exciting and pacy and will keep the little ones heartily entertained. They will love sailing the high seas on a ship where even the granny, granddad and baby are pirates. Bold and energetic illustrations with lots to discover that will keep children and adults amused.

ISBN 9781444928501 HB Hodder £12.99

DAVE PIGEON (RACER!) BY SWAPNA HADDOW & SHEENA DEMPSEY

CHILDREN 7+

Dave Pigeon is flying high in his third book of the series. Dave is finally getting his wing fixed. Everything is going 'feathertastically' well until a dastardly parrot dares him to race. This plucky pigeon with his diabolically dry wit will entertain both children and adults and have them 'twit-wooing' with laughter. The hilarious illustrations are the perfect compliment to the adventure and add to the fun. A brilliant series for early readers.

ISBN 9780571336906 PB Faber & Faber £5.99

THE CRUEL PRINCE BY HOLLY BLACK

YOUNG ADULT 13+

Abducted by faeries Jude and her sisters must become ruthless and cunning to survive in the royal court. Betrayal is around every corner, especially in the disguise of a certain faery prince. A dark and beguiling fantasy that sees how human strengths and weaknesses can be used for good and bad. This addictive tale and it's vibrant cast of characters has hints of King Arthur's court and a knights quest with a magical twist.

ISBN 9781471406454 HB Hot Key £12.99