SOUTH WALES EVENING POST CHILDRENS BOOK REVIEWS DEC 31-JAN 1

My pick of childrens books this week for the South Wales Evening Post include a quirky who done it, a picture book looking at friendship, a sewing kit for kids and a story about hope. My childrens book review column can be found in the magazine section of the paper every weekend. 

 Wishing you all a very happy, healthy and peaceful 2017

BOOK OF THE WEEK

THE GOLDFISH BOY BY LISA THOMPSON

CHILDRENS 10+

Matthew suffers from crippling OCD which makes him a virtual recluse. He chooses to see life pass by from his bedroom window. When a toddler goes missing can he help solve his disappearance and face his fears at the same time? A psychological thriller that has an endearing protagonist amongst a bevy of colourful characters. An intriguing modern day Poirot with heart. Perfectly pitched for middle grader readers who love a good mystery.

ISBN 9781407170992 PB Scholastic £6.99

OWL BAT BAT OWL BY MARIE-LOUISE FITZPATRICK
PICTURE BOOK 2+
Told through illustrations only we watch as mummy owl and three baby owls settle down for the night. Annoyingly they are disturbed by a family of bats hanging upside down on the same branch. When a terrible storm arrives the babies fall off one by one. Who will save them? A sweet story about helping your neighbour despite their differences, working together and finding true friendship. A strong message simply and powerfully told.
ISBN 9781406364392 HB Walker Books £11.99

SEWING KIT BY ABIGAIL WHEATLEY
CHILDRENS 7+
This perfect little sewing kit has everything you need to make seven felt animals. Children who love crafts and making things will delighted in the simple step by step guide book. Also included is everything you need such as stuffing, needles, buttons, pins and thread. Most helpful are the links to video clips for demonstrations, tips and techniques. With clear layout this is brilliant for absolute beginners, even telling you how to thread a needle.

ISBN: 9781409599227 PB Usborne £12.99

MIRACULOUS MIRANDA BY SIOBHAN PARKINSON
CHILDRENS 9+

A poignant and touching tale of hope and miracles, imagination and the belief that anything is possible. When Miranda's sister is taken to hospital she escapes into an imaginary world Magnanimous. Thought provoking and profound this endearing tale gives an insight into family and friendship and how people deal with stressful situations. Sometimes a child’s innocence can have a powerful impact and is more able to see through dark times. Full of empathy.

ISBN 9781444929072 HB Hodder Childrens £10.99

Evening Post The Reading Chair Childrens Book Review Oct 10th

South Wales Evening Post Children's Book Column Oct 10th

My pick of childrens books for this week. 

BOOK OF THE WEEK

THORFINN AND THE AWFUL INVASION BY DAVID MACPHAIL

Childrens 6+

A new action packed Viking series full of fun facts and puzzles for young readers. Thorfinn is the most lovable and misunderstood Viking since Hiccup. He's far too polite and nice, much to his fearsome Dad's horror so, Thorfinn is sent off on a raiding mission to prove his worth. Hilarious writing and witty illustrations that will have all young bookworms hooked. For lovers of Horrid Henry and Diary of a Wimpy Kid.

ISBN:9781782501589 PB Floris Books £4.99

Picture Book 3+

OI FROG BY KES GRAY, JIM FIELD

A ludicrously hilarious rhyming tale about a frog who will not sit on his log even if every other animal has their own special seat. A real treat to read out loud and would be perfect for a nursery group. Children can join in with the anarchic text while enjoying the comical illustrations. A cautionary tale and a new take on the cat on the mat classic story and deserves several retellings.
ISBN: 9781444910865 PB Hachette Children's Group £6.99

4/5 Stars

Children's book 6+

BIG BOOK OF SCIENCE:THINGS TO MAKE AND DO BY REBECCA GILPIN, LEONIE PRATT

The powers that be keep telling us to encourage girls and boys to have more of an interest in science and this is the perfect introduction that will appeal to both. An activity book with easy instructions for lots of fun and simple experiments like a spinning helicopter or magic flowers. Alongside these are explanations, internet links and most importantly 850 stickers to decorate the projects with. Eureka!

ISBN: 9781409539001 PB Usborne Publishing £9.99

5/5 Stars

Young Adult Fiction 13+

THE SELECTION BY KIERA CASS

A dystopian story that will appeal to your inner Cinderella. Prince Maxim picks feisty heroine America but her first love is the unsuitable Astor. America is obnoxious and manipulative but later you warm to her feisty, honourable nature. It is this hot, cold appeal that will keep you reading. If you like reality TV, princes and fairytales with a little nip rather than bite this is the book for you. Hunger Games meets Pageant Queen!
ISBN: 9780007466696 PB HarperCollins £7.99

4/5 Stars