SOUTH WALES EVENING POST CHILDREN'S BOOK REVIEW SEPT 14-15 2019

This week my children's book reviews include a brilliantly clever middle grade detective story, a picture book about acceptance, a middle grade drama about family and an exciting SAS adventure for teens.

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

BOOK OF THE WEEK

LORI AND MAX BY CATHERINE O'FLYNN

CHILDREN 9+

When money goes missing from the classroom new girl Max becomes the suspect. But her friend and wannabe detective Lori is determined to prove Max's innocence. When Max disappears, can Lori solve the mystery? A contemporary whodunnit with two endearing and quirky heroines. The twists and turns are dealt with a sleight of hand that will have you guessing until the end. Full of laughter, excitement and empathy this is the perfect pick for budding sleuths.

Firefly Press PB £6.99

THE SMEDS AND THE SMOOS BY JULIA DONALDSON & AXEL SCHEFFLER

PICTURE BOOK 4+

The Smeds (who are red) and the Smoos (who are blue) never mix because of their differences. But what will they do if a Smed and Smoo fall in love? A beautiful story of inclusivity and learning to appreciate each other's differences rather than be mistrustful of them. The joyful and colourful illustrations capture the wild and wonderful array of aliens, and you can even spot a Gruffalo alien. A story for our times.

Alison Green Books HB £12.99

THE SPACE WE'RE IN BY KATYA BALEN

CHILDREN 10+

Frank's little brother Max is autistic. The whole family loves him, but sometimes Frank resents all the attention Max receives. When tragedy strikes their world spirals out of control. Can the family piece their lives back together? This deals with big issues like sibling love and rivalry, grief, anxiety, as well as love and hope. Sensitively illustrated by Lauren Carlin this will make you laugh and cry. For fans of David Almond and R.J. Palacio.

Bloomsbury HB £10.99

JUSTICE BY CHRIS RYAN

YOUNG ADULT 13+

To catch a warlord of an international trafficking ring, The Special Forces Cadets must use themselves as bait. But the bad guys always seem one step ahead. Can the teens survive the Congo rainforest? Who can they trust? An exciting fast-paced adventure with authentic detail by the former SAS author that adds to the tension. The third in the series with its ensemble cast has enormous appeal for fans of Alex Rider and CHERUB.

Hot Key PB 6.99