SOUTH WALES EVENING POST CHILDREN'S BOOK REVIEW JAN 18-19 2020

This week my children's book reviews include two epic fantasies for teens, a beautiful picture book about the price of freedom and a fascinating middle grade book full of strange but true football stories. 

Perfect books for the New Year!

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

BOOK OF THE WEEK 

A THRONE OF SWANS BY KATHARINE & ELIZABETH CORR

YOUNG ADULT 12+

Seventeen-year-old Aderly inherits a kingdom ruled by those who can transform into a bird and fly. Aderly is a swan who since witnessing her mothers murder can no longer take flight. Can she save the kingdom from her cruel uncle? Who can she trust? An intriguing fantasy richly woven with magic and a duplicitous cast, a flawed but courageous heroine and an unexpected twist. For fans of Leigh Bardugo and Melinda Salisbury.

Hot Key Books PB £7.99

STARBIRD BY SHARON KING-CHAI

PICTURE BOOK 3+

The Moon King gifts his daughter the legendary Starbird. But one day it stops singing. When his daughter notices how sad the caged bird is she sets it free. The King is furious. Can he understand the price of freedom? A stunning book with foiled pages. Children will be entranced by the twilight images and looking for the Starbird within the silhouettes. A beautiful original folk story about love and freedom that would make a stunning and sensitive gift.

Two Hoots HB £12.99

UNBELIEVABLE FOOTBALL BY MATT OLDFIELD

CHILDREN 8+

A collection of entertaining and fascinating stories about the beautiful game. Have you heard of the psychic octopus who could predict the winner? The Lancashire Lasses who became footballs best-kept secret? The dog detective who saved the world cup trophy? The world-class manager who survived a war? The perfect gift for football-mad kids. The short accessible stories are perfect to dip into and share with friends and family.

Wren & Rook PB £6.99

A HEART SO FIERCE AND BROKEN BY BRIGID KEMMERER

YOUNG ADULT 12+

Harper has freed Prince Rhen from a curse but a rival heir lies in wait. Grey the prince's best friend has fled the castle with a terrible secret. Who will betray whom? Told from alternating points of view this fantasy sequel brims with excitement, devious plots and bold new characters that will sink its claws into you. An exciting new spin on a tale as old as time which forges its own path. A must for fantasy lovers.

Bloomsbury PB £7.99

SOUTH WALES EVENING POST CHILDREN'S BOOK REVIEW NOV30-DEC 1 2019

This week my children's book reviews include a fabulous introduction to classical composers, a purrfect picture book retelling of A Christmas Carol, A handbook guide for Father Christmas and little ones plus a festive middle grade adventure sequel with dinosaurs and witches.

Perfect presents for Christmas

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

BOOK OF THE WEEK 

JAMES RHODES' PLAYLIST

CHILDREN 9+

Discover seven of the worlds' greatest composers. The rebels and revolutionaries of sound that were the original rock stars. From Bach to Mozart, Shubert to Ravel. Discover the influences they still have on your music today. A visually exquisite celebration of classical music in a stunning slipcase. It also features a large fold-out poster and an online playlist of the pieces discussed. Martin O'Neill's avant-garde illustrations are real show-stoppers. A lovely introductory gift for music lovers to enjoy.

Wren & Rook HB £24.99

A CAT'S CHRISTMAS CAROL BY SAM HAY & HELEN SHOESMITH

PICTURE BOOK 3+

It's Christmas Eve, and Clawdia the department store's security cat is on the prowl. She doesn't believe in silly festivities! When three lonely visitors arrive, they teach her the true meaning of Christmas. Can seeing her past, present and future make Clawdia into a friendly kitty? The playful illustrations capture Clawdia's quest in the store. A heartfelt and entertaining retelling of A Christmas Carol for all the family to enjoy.

Simon & Schuster PB £6.99

SANTA'S CHRISTMAS HANDBOOK

CHILDREN 8+

Santa Claus is highly accident-prone and a bit clueless, so his elves have written him a helpful handbook. It contains all he needs to know, including reindeer tips, present prompts and useful tools like Santa Nav. Inspired by the Ology series, this is packed with flaps to lift, mini-books to read and a fun game at the end. Stuffed with colourful and entertaining illustrations, this is the perfect gift for children over Christmas.

Templar HB £16.99

THE CHRISTMASAURUS AND THE WINTER WITCH BY TOM FLETCHER & SHANE DEVRIES

CHILDREN 9+

One year after William Trundle's adventure with the Christmasaurus he is swept back to the magical North Pole to meet a mysterious icy witch! She controls time and helps Santa deliver all his presents on time. Now William and his dinosaur must help the witch save Christmas. The lively illustrations bring the festive family story to life alongside the clever use of different text. An enchanting read to gift and share over the holidays.

Puffin HB £12.99

SOUTH WALES EVENING POST CHILDREN'S BOOK REVIEW AUG 10-11

This week my children's book reviews include a feminist fairy-tale for teens, a picture book about the plight orangutans, a middle grade adventure about a princess who loves BMX and an intriqueing Young adult thriller set on the Welsh coast

Happy Summer Reading!

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

BOOK OF THE WEEK

THE KINGDOM BY JESS ROTHENBERG

YOUNG ADULT 12+

Android princess Ana lives in The Kingdom which makes visitors' wishes come true. But when she is accused of murder difficult questions must be ascertained. Did Ana override her program? Does she have free will? Told through court testimony and flashbacks this will keep the reader guessing until the end. An intriguing thriller and anti-fairytale with a cinematic feel and themes of sisterhood, objectification and how power can corrupt. Westworld meets One of Us is Lying.

Macmillan PB £7.99

THERE'S A RANG-TAN IN MY BEDROOM BY JAMES SELLICK & FRANN PRESTON-GANNON

CHILDREN 4+

When a little girl discovers a mischievous orangutan in her bedroom it shows her how growing palm oil for her products, such as shampoo are destroying her home. The moving illustrations and story show the plight of orangutans, the dangers of deforestation and what we can do to help. It includes how to write a campaign letter and why palm oil is so harmful to wildlife. This is a special picture book with a vital message to share.

Wren & Rook HB £12.99

PRINCESS BMX BY MARIE BASTING

CHILDREN 7+

Princess Ava travels between her magical kingdom and London to fulfil her passion for riding BMX. But can Ava use her new biking skills to save her home from her evil Aunty? Ava's hilarious adventure races along at breakneck speed while punctured with characterful illustrations by Flavia Sorrentino. Children will love Ava's cheeky humour and her courage to be true to herself. A modern fairy-tale which is full of magic, friendship and bikes! Enchanted meets BMX.

Chicken House PB £7.99

MY SECRET LIES WITH YOU BY FAYE BIRD

YOUNG ADULT 14+

A mysterious girl Alys appeared one summer only to vanish without a trace. This summer Cait arrives for a holiday in Wales mourning the loss of her father while dealing with her mother's new boyfriend. Told from four perspectives this is a classic whodunnit with a twist in the tale. Secrets and lies, friendships and family, love and loss are intertwined in this fast-paced thriller. A perfect summer read for fans of Pretty Little Lies and Riverdale.

Usborne PB £7.99

SOUTH WALES EVENING POST CHILDRENS BOOK REVIEW MARCH 23-24

This week my children's book reviews include a perfect Picture Book for Mother's Day by best selling author Judith Kerr, a fascinating look at the Bronte Sisters for younger readers, a Mummy Fairy adventure for early readers and a mythical adventure about the last herd of unicorns.

Some Great Books for Mothers Day. 

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

BOOK OF THE WEEK 

MUMMY TIME BY JUDITH KERR
PICTURE BOOK 4+
When a Mum is preoccupied on her mobile phone she doesn't notice her toddler getting up to all sorts of wild adventures in the park. A witty and ironic comment on modern-day distractions and a reminder of the importance of living in the moment and paying attention to the world around you. An engaging gift for Mothers Day, this lovingly illustrated funny book is perfect for parents to share with their children.

ISBN 9780008306809 HB Harper Collins £12.99

THE BRONTES BY ANNA DOHERTY
CHILDREN 5+
An inspiring and empowering story about the Bronte Sisters and their extraordinary imagination. Children will have a fascinating insight into the harsh life of women at the time and how Charlotte, Emily and Anne overcame these obstacles with astonishing determination and ambition. A celebration of female independence without which we would not have classics such as Jane Eyre and Wuthering Heights. A fantastically feminist and thoughtful gift for Mothers Day.
ISBN 9781526361066 HB Wren & Rook £12.99

MUMMY FAIRY AND ME: UNICORN WISHES BY SOPHIE KINSELLA

CHILDREN 6+
Ella's Mum is a real-life fairy with a 'computawand' that has a screen, fairy apps and email! But she doesn't always get her spells right which means there's a lot that can go wrong! Four spellbinding adventures including magical ballet lessons, flying to school and a pet unicorn. This is ideal for early readers as it's fully illustrated by Marta Kissi and has fun activities at the back. A touch of magic to share on Mothering Sunday.
ISBN 9780241380260 PB Penguin £5.99

GUARDIANS OF THE WILD UNICORNS BY LINDSAY LITTLESON

CHILDREN 9+
Lewis is on a miserable school trip but is astonished when he discovers the last surviving herd of unicorns in the Highlands. Can he and his best friend Rhona rescue these legendary creatures from an evil gamekeeper? A thrilling adventure told from alternative points of view that will appeal to both boys and girls. The story is wonderfully atmospheric and mythical with a conservation undercurrent alongside complex family issues. Children will be enthralled by these magnificently wild unicorns.
ISBN 9781782505556 PB Kelpies £6.99

SOUTH WALES EVENING POST CHILDRENS BOOK REVIEW JAN 19-20 2019

This week my children's book reviews include a beautiful picture book filled with hope, a book to help you escape social media,  a princess who loves fashion and a feminist retelling of classic fairytales.

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

BOOK OF THE WEEK

WISP: A STORY OF HOPE BY ZANA FRAILLON & GRAHAME BAKER-SMITH

PICTURE BOOK 4+

Idris is a child refugee who's world comprises of a camp of tents and fences. Then the Wisp arrives who reawakens people's memories of a better life. But Idris knows no other life so what will the Wisp bring him? A moving and uplifting story of hope accompanied by beautiful and powerful illustrations. It shows the small light of hope growing throughout the story inspiring those who have forgotten how to dream. Stunning.
ISBN 9781408350119 PB Hachette £6.99

TURN OFF LIVE ON BY VINCENT VINCENT
CHILDREN 9+
This little book is the perfect antidote to help us all have a break from social media while highlighting different creative outlets we can explore. It is overflowing with ideas to switch off and relax including activities, brain exercises and even techniques for meditation and good posture. It is a pertinent reminder to take an interest in yourself and your own wellbeing not just the lives of familiar strangers in a digital world.
ISBN 9871526361820 PB Wren & Rook £6.99

ROYAL REBEL BY CARINA AXELSSON

CHILDREN 10+
When Lily's fashion vlog 'Tiara Girl' starts to take off her life suddenly becomes complicated. Mainly because Lily is a real-life princess and first in line to the throne! Can she keep her passion for fashion a secret? Girls will love the fairytale lifestyle mixed with Lily's desire for independence and following her dream. An accessible and attractive read that is great fun and just a little rebellious! Princess Diaries meets Geek Girl.
ISBN 9781474942409 PB Usborne £6.99

TANGLEWEED AND BRINE BY DEIRDRE SULLIVAN & KAREN VAUGHAN
YOUNG ADULT 15+
A collection of retold fairytales with a feminist slant and sumptuous black and white illustrations reminiscent of Aubrey Beardsley. The helpless maidens in distress are now replaced with independent, strong and cunning heroines striving for independence, survival and power. An inspirational gift mixing old fashioned tales with modern day values. These unsettling, surprising and empowering stories including Cinderella and Rumpelstiltskin would also be a great talking point for a book club. 

ISBN 9781912417117 PB Little Island £8.99

SOUTH WALES EVENING POST CHILDREN'S BOOK REVIEWS MARCH 3-4 TH

This week my children's book reviews include an young adult epic fantasy, a naughty lion, inspirational sports women and an historical novel inspired by the Mona Lisa.

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

Enjoy

BOOK OF THE WEEK

STATE OF SORROW BY MELINDA SALISBURY

YOUNG ADULT 12+

Sorrow rules the Court of Tears in the absence of her mourning father. When her brother is seemingly found alive and wishes to rule Sorrow, it exposes her forbidden love for a childhood friend and risks the future of her country. Sorrow must play a deathly game to save all she holds dear. This addictive fantasy world of lies and deceit and its spirited heroine will hold you in its grasp until the shocking end. Irresistible.

ISBN 9781407180274 PB Scholastic £7.99

A LION IS A LION BY POLLY DUNBAR

PICTURE BOOK 3+

This hilarious read-aloud story asks the question of its young readers: Is a lion still a lion if he...Wears a hat? Carries an umbrella? What if he bites? The rhythmic text with repeating phrases will delight its young audience. It shows children how to protest against a wrong and stand up for themselves. The gorgeous, energetic colour illustrations are witty and refreshing. This is 'pawfect' to empower young minds and have fun!

ISBN 9781406371536 HB Walker £11.99

WOMEN IN SPORT BY RACHEL IGNOTOVSKY

CHILDREN 8+

Following the success of the Winter Olympics, children can learn about fifty athletes who played to win from 1800 to today. This highly illustrated book includes trailblazers, Olympians, and record-breakers including well-known figures like tennis player Serena Williams and boxing champion Nicola Adams to lesser-known pioneers like Gertrude Ederle, the first woman to swim the English Channel. It also contains exclusive content from welsh athlete Tanni-Grey Thomson amongst others. Inspirational.

ISBN 9781526360922 HB Wren & Rook £12.99

SMILE BY MARY HOFFMAN

YOUNG ADULT 8+

Lisa lives in the time of the Renaissance where for men the world is full of possibility. Resigned to an arranged marriage she crosses paths with the artist Leonardo Da Vinci. While his portrait of Lisa captures the imagination of the world this rich and evocative historical novel vividly imagines the life of the woman behind the smile. A super readable teen novel suitable for dyslexics and reluctant readers as well as for art and history lovers.

ISBN 9781781127179 PB Barrington Stoke £6.99