Now that the book is out, I can’t imagine the cover any other way, but I’ve enjoyed taking a rummage through my files to rediscover how the idea came together.I started talking about cover ideas with my publisher, Greenwillow quite early on when I’d only illustrated a couple of the interior spreads. I knew that … Continue reading Silver Linings by Fiona Woodcock
Sam (@SamJDThomas)- Every one of Jess' books published to date have been absolute favourite reads of mine, with my copies having pride of place on my forever bookshelf, so when I became aware of Jess having written a new middle grade book I quite honestly didn't need to know anymore about it. Count me in. … Continue reading Lost on Gibbon Island
This beautifully written book is penned by Lucy Strange, author of many incredible middle grade titles including Our Castle by the Sea, which was shortlisted for a Waterstones Book Prize, and though Sisters of the Lost Marsh officially published in November 2021 I have only recently had the pleasure of sitting down and reading it. … Continue reading Sisters of the Lost Marsh
Wendington Jones and The Missing Tree is a classic adventure tale, packed with action, twists and turns. But just what is a classic adventure story - the sort the inspired Wendington, and me, to get here. Well I always loved stories where someone learns of something strange and wonderful out in the world. Something so … Continue reading The Adventures That Inspired Me by Daniel Dockery
Wildsmith Into The Dark Forest is written by Liz Flanagan, author of the Legends of the Sky trilogy, a fantasy dragon themed three book instalment that if you haven't yet had the pleasure of you should definitely add to your reading lists. After reading this February publication, Wildsmith Into The Dark Forest, I am hopeful … Continue reading Wildsmith Into The Dark Forest by Liz Flanagan
Published by Puffin on 5th January Perfect for readers aged 8+ Stunningly illustrated by Geraldine Rodriguez Number 14 Darlington Road, looks like a perfectly ordinary townhouse - at first glance, anyway, but magic is good at hiding . . . when it's waiting for the right person to discover it . . . Whenever there … Continue reading Saving Neverland – The Must Read of 2023
Helen (@helenbyles) When 12-year-old John Nicol gets a job at the Forth Bridge construction site, he knows it’s dangerous. Four boys have already fallen from the bridge into the Forth below. But John has no choice―with his father gone, he must provide an income for his family―even if he is terrified of heights. John finds … Continue reading BookBound Review Rivet Boy by Barbara Henderson
Published on 5th January by Little Tiger To read this story, you need to visit Brutalia But Brutalia doesn't like visitors, so don't approach anyone, and keep your eyes peeled for escape routes, and wear brown so you blend in. Look, it's probably best if you just disguise yourself as a RAT. OK with that? … Continue reading Mort the Meek and the Perilous Prophecy – Double Review
Myself and my youngest son had the pleasure of interviewing Andy Griffiths, and sharing this with you alongside my son's review of the latest title in the series, The 156 Storey Treehouse. Where did the idea for the tree house series come from? One day Terry and I were working on a story and it … Continue reading Interview with Andy Griffiths, author of the Treehouse series
I Love You more than Christmas by Ellie Hattie Illustrations by Tim Warnes Available as a Board Book I recall this title as a paperback when it published last year, and I still recall how gorgeous the illustrations are, and how heart warming the content is, and now it is available in board book for … Continue reading Books to enjoy during Christmas 2022
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