Children's Recommendations
Here are some of our favourite recent reads!
Windrush Child
Benjamin Zephaniah
In this heart-stopping adventure, Benjamin Zephaniah shows us what it was like to be a child of the Windrush generation. How can a boy so far from home learn to enjoy his new life when so many things count against him? An invaluable story for any young readers who enjoy adventure and want to learn more about the Windrush generation’s experience.
Suggested reading age: 9-12
The Beast and the Bethany
Jack Meggitt-Phillips
Lemony Snicket meets Roald Dhal in this riotously funny, deliciously macabre, and highly illustrated tale of a hungry beast, a vain immortal man, and a not-so-charming little girl who doesn't know she's about to be eaten.
Suggested reading age: 9-12
Owen and the Soldier
Lisa Thompson
When Owen discovers a crumbling stone soldier in the local park, it feels like he finally has someone he can talk to about his worries. But the town council cant’s see how important the soldier is and they want to remove him. Owen’s scared that he’ll be left on his own again, but can he find the courage he needs to save the soldier before it’s too late?
Designed to help dyslexic readers. Suggested reading age: 8-12
The House at the Edge of Magic
Amy Sparkes
Nine is an orphan pickpocket determined to escape her life in the Nest of a Thousand Treasures. When she steals a house-shaped ornament from a mysterious woman's purse, she knocks on its tiny door and watches it grow into a huge, higgledy-piggeldy house. Inside she finds a host of magical and brilliantly funny characters. They have been placed under an extraordinary spell, which they are desperate for Nine to break - and if she can, maybe they can offer her a new life in return...
Suggested reading age: 8-11
Red Stars
Davide Morosinotto
A thrilling and moving wartime adventure story of courage, bravery and love – packed full of maps, photos, illustrations and other exciting visual elements.
Suggested reading age: 10-12
Anisha, Accidental Detective
Serena Patel
Anisha Mistry is all set to be a bridesmaid at her Aunty Bindi's wedding tomorrow...until she finds a note in her family's letterbox. Bindi's groom has been kidnapped and will only be released IF THE WEDDING IS CALLED OFF!
With best friend Milo, a mischievous granny, a runaway lobster, a giant chauffeur, and some super sleuthing skills, it's up to Anisha Mistry to find her uncle and save THE big Indian Wedding of the year.
Suggested reading age: 5-8