SOUTH WALES EVENING POST CHILDREN'S BOOK REVIEW FEB 22-23 2020

This week my children's book reviews include a middle grade historical adventure, an exquisitely illustrated picture book, a dark and dangerous middle grade fantasy adventure and a thrilling and topical teen drama set in the world of olympic gymnastics. 

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

BOOK OF THE WEEK

THE HOUSE OF ONE HUNDRED CLOCKS BY A.M. HOWELL

CHILDREN 9+

Helena and her parrot Orbit are swept off to Cambridge where her father is appointed clock-winder to the wealthiest man in England in 1905. But the house of one hundred clocks is haunted by many mysteries. Can Helena work out its secrets before time runs out? An atmospheric and intriguing tale laced with science and social change against an Edwardian backdrop. A modern fairytale with family love, loss and the healing power of friendship at its heart.

Usborne PB £6.99

THE ANTLERED SHIP BY DASHKA SLATER & THE FAN BROTHERS

PICTURE BOOK 4+

An inquisitive fox, Marco sets off on a seafaring voyage with a crew of hungry deer and courageous pigeons in this enchanting tale of friendship and adventure. Can Marco find the answers to his questions? How deep does the sun go when it sinks into the sea? Why don't trees talk? Children will adore diving into the exquisite and fanciful illustrations of Marco's odyssey. The detailed artwork is sublime. A stunning gift to be treasured.

PB Lincoln Children's Books £7.99

ORPHANS OF THE TIDE BY STRUAN MURRAY

CHILDREN 9+

When a mysterious boy washes in with the tide the citizens believe he's the Enemy. A God who creates chaos. Only Ellie, a fearless young inventor believes he's innocent. Can Ellie prove who he really is while keeping her own dangerous secret? Readers will submerge themselves into a mythic and dark world atmospherically illustrated by Manuel Sumberac. The gothic overtones and themes of friendship and loyalty will suit fans of Philip Pullman and Frostheart.

Puffin PB £7.99

BREAK THE FALL BY JENNIFER IACOPELLI

YOUNG ADULT 12+

Seventeen-year-old Audrey dreams of swinging her way to Olympic glory. A gold medal will be worth all her aches and pains. But when her trainer is accused by a fellow gymnast of the unthinkable her team starts to fall apart. With pressure mounting can Audrey hold her nerve until her final dismount? A powerfully told novel about one girl's determination to push herself to the limits. A topical and insightful drama for fans of gymnastics and athletics.

PB Hodder £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 OCT 5-6 2019

This week my children's book reviews include a magical middle grade icy adventure, a picture book about a rock, a middle grade non fiction book of unusual jobs and a poetry book for teens. 

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

BOOK OF THE WEEK 

FROSTHEART BY JAMIE LITTLER

CHILDREN 9+

Ash lives with The Fira at the edge of the Snow Sea in a strong hold surrounded by terrifying monsters. When a brave rescue reveals his magical powers Ash embarks on a quest to find out what happened to his parents and the truth of his mysterious gift. A rip-roaring adventure with boundless illustrations which bring the characters to life. An exhilarating snow-bound ride that is perfect for fans of How to Train Your Dragon and Nevermoor.

Puffin PB £7.99

A STONE SAT STILL BY BRENDAN WENZEL

PICTURE BOOK 4+

When is a stone not just a stone? To the animals who live around the stone, it can be a home or an entire world. The stunning illustrations and soothing rhymes are perfect for reading aloud. It encourages children to use their imagination, looking at the simplest objects in different ways. It inspires fun games thinking about what everyday objects can be used for. A gorgeous exploration of perspective, perception with an underlying environmental message. Beautiful.

HB Chronicle Books £12.99

INCREDIBLE JOBS YOU'VE (PROBABLY) NEVER HEARD OF BY NATALIE LABARRE

CHILDREN 9+

Discover weird and wonderful jobs you may never have heard of in this large-format book. Children will be fascinated by the wide variety of jobs available such as a Sloth nanny or professional sleeper! What about becoming a picture restorer or a submarine chef? The bold and witty illustrations provide hours of exploration. It will ignite children's imagination and encourage them to think outside the box for future endeavours. This unique book opens up whole new worlds.

HB Nosy Crow £14.99

SOMEBODY GIVE THIS HEART A PEN BY SOPHIA THAKUR

YOUNG ADULT 13+

A compelling collection of poems by an acclaimed performance poet. Sophia explores issues of identity, difference, perseverance, relationships, fear, loss and joy. The collection is arranged from youth to school, to home life, falling in love and out. And growing up. It is inspired by the poet's mixed-race background trying to make sense of a lonely, complicated world. A beautiful and contemporary introduction to poetry and another way to explore our own emotions.

Walker PB £7.99

SOUTH WALES EVENING POST CHILDREN'S BOOK REVIEW AUG 31-1 SEPT

This week my children's book reviews include a middle grade adventure in Snowdonia, a picture book about going to school for the time, a return to Enid Blyton's classic Mallory Towers and a charming romance for young adults set on a train going across America. 

Great books for going back to school and university!

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

BOOK OF THE WEEK 

MAX KOWALSKI DIDN'T MEAN IT BY SUSIE DAY

CHILDREN 9+

Max is an 11-years-old boy who is always in trouble. But when his father disappears he must take responsibility for his siblings. They hide in Snowdonia where Max discovers new friends and a dragon that must be defeated! A heartwarming and emotional story about Max and his imperfect family that will make you laugh and cry. It is ideal for discussions about masculinity, dealing with unfair expectations and why it's okay to be yourself.

Puffin PB £6.99

THE COLOUR MONSTER GOES TO SCHOOL BY ANNA LLENAS

PICTURE BOOK 4+

The Colour Monster is preparing for his first day at school with his friend. Together with the new pupils they paint pictures, read and play. Despite making some mistakes they thoroughly enjoy and can't wait to go back. A wonderful and reassuring story for children who feel nervous about their first day at school. A great way to start a conversation about what children will expect in school as well as being very funny.

Templar PB £6.99

NEW CLASS AT MALORY TOWERS BY ENID BLYTON & VARIOUS

CHILDREN 9+

The definitive boarding school series returns with four new stories by various authors including Patrice Lawrence. New girl Marietta wants to go back to her home in the circus. When a dormitory argument reveals something unusual about her braided hair will she find friends at last? The tales are full of fun, friendship and midnight feasts with a feminist spin. The diverse and strong female cast will inspire a new generation of readers.

Hodder PB £6.99

FIELD NOTES ON LOVE BY JENNIFER E. SMITH

YOUNG ADULT 12+

Before starting university Mae and Hugo meet through the internet to become travel companions on a cross-country train trip across the USA. Despite being strangers and dealing with family drama they start to fall for each other. An endearing romance about living in the moment, learning to be independent and trusting your instincts. An intimate and atmospheric love story that speeds along to a satisfying climax. For fans of Stephanie Perkins and Jenny Han.

Macmillan PB £7.99

SOUTH WALES EVENING POST CHILDRENS BOOK REVIEW APRIL 13-14 2019

This week my children's book reviews include a classic retelling of the story of Easter, a charming board book for children to follow an  Easter Egg Hunt, an enchanting underwater adventure for early readers and a fascinating introduction to Queen Victoria. 

Some Great Books for Easter. 

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

BOOK OF THE WEEK 

THE EASTER STORY BY BRIAN WILDSMITH
PICTURE BOOK 4+
The story of Easter is told through the eyes of a donkey who carries Jesus into Jerusalem. He watches the Last Supper, the crucifixion and the resurrection. This new small hardback is a gentle and accessible introduction to the story of Easter. The sumptuous illustrations in jewelled colours and glimmers of gold add to the epic story and symbolism. A thoughtful Easter gift and great to share in the classroom.
ISBN 9780192768735 HB Oxford University Press £7.99

POPPY AND SAM'S EASTER EGG HUNT BY SAM TAPLIN & SIMON TAYLOR-KIELTY
BOARD BOOK 2+
Children will be filled with delight as they search each page for hidden Easter eggs and a tiny duck on the farm. They can follow Poppy and Sam while looking through the cut out holes and running their fingers along the flight of a butterfly or jump along with a lamb. The charming illustrations on each page encapsulate Spring and Easter Time and are perfectly proportioned for small hands. A delightful little Easter gift.
ISBN 971474952767 HB Usborne £5.99

THE SEA HOUSE BY LUCY OWEN & REBECCA HARRY
CHILDREN 6+
One night grieving nine-year-old Coral cries so much she fills her house with tears and wakes in a magical underwater world. She makes new friends as well as dangerous enemies. I especially loved her adorable new fishy friend called Fabulous! A powerful story of courage and friendship as well as a strong conservation message that is lovingly illustrated throughout. A lovely book for early readers and to read together for story time. Finding Nemo meets The Water Babies.

ISBN 9781910080825 PB Firefly £6.99

V&A INTRODUCES: QUEEN VICTORIA BY NINA COSFORD
CHILDREN 7+
A fascinating and intriguing introduction to the reign of Queen Victoria. This small and accessible hardback tells of her upbringing, marriage to Prince Albert and their love for the arts. It is complimented with delightful illustrations, photographs and quotes as well as an insight into British life at the time. It explains the legacy Victoria had on the world. Part of a lovely series celebrating icons of art and design including William Morris and Frida Kahlo.
ISBN 9781241372951 HB Puffin £6.99