SOUTH WALES EVENING POST CHILDREN'S BOOK REVIEW MARCH 7-8 2020

This week my children's book reviews include a fabulous Parisien middle grade mystery, a classic feminist picture book, a guide to making the world better and a riveting dystopian adventure for teens.

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

BOOK OF THE WEEK 

THE PEAR AFFAIR BY JUDITH EAGLE

CHILDREN 9+

Nell is determined to find her adored missing au pair Perrine. Nell will even travel with her ghastly nouveau riche parents to Paris to find her. When she arrives Nell finds herself embroiled in another mystery surrounding the suspicious closures of famous bread shops. Children will love exploring Paris with Nell and her new friends who live under the city streets while seeking out clues. A gripping and entrancing quest for true friendship. C'est délicieux!

Faber PB £7.99

THE PAPER BAG PRINCESS BY ROBERT MUNSCH & MICHAEL MARTCHENKO

PICTURE BOOK 4+

This special 40th Anniversary hardback celebrates the classic feminist fairytale with a foreword by Chelsea Clinton. Princess Elizabeth is about to marry her prince when a dragon kidnaps him and burns down her castle. With only a paper bag to wear she sets off to rescue him only to be told she looks a mess! Where will her heart truly lead her? Children will delight in the surprise ending and the delightful characterful illustrations. A classic.

Annick Press HB £12.99

HOW TO MAKE A BETTER WORLD BY KEILLY SWIFT

CHILDREN 7+

You have the power to change the world. But how and in what way? A fun and inspiring practical guide to how young people can help the planet and people around them. Find out how to volunteer, help the environment, start a campaign or help with the plastic problem. Children and families can discover tips, projects and role models through the easy to digest text and colourful illustrations. Inspirational for both home and school.

DK HB £10.99

THE LOOP BY BEN OLIVER

YOUNG ADULT 14+

Sixteen-year-old Luka will be executed in the Loop, a prison controlled by artificial intelligence unless he submits to medical experiments. A detonator is sewn into his heart. Will he ever be free? Is there more danger outside than in? Can he stop all humankind being deleted? A fascinating concept and world that doesn't seem that far away. It raises questions about the power we give technology. A gripping dystopian thriller for fans of Maze Runner and Divergent.

Chicken House PB £7.99