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< Back Jeffrey Hallett Labyrinths of Radiance and Shadow While working on a technology project at Crystal Bay University, Dr Tricia Carling was involved in a freak accident. Following the accident, she acquired extraordinary strength and healing powers to become the world’s only functioning parahuman. Using the alias of Beacon, and donning a superhero costume, she has become a local crusader and celebrity, using her powers as a force for good to fight criminals. But, unbeknownst to Beacon, she is not the only person living in Crystal Bay with special abilities. A woman named Umbra was involved in the same accident as Tricia, although her abilities are significantly different. A year later, Beacon has caught the attention of Sorensen, the Director of the Institute for the Advancement of Human Potential. Sorensen has a secret mission to harness her powers and replicate them in others, creating an entire legion of parahumans. He persuades Umbra to work with him to recruit an army of people and give them the superpowers that will cure all society’s ills. But few people survive Sorensen’s rigorous experiments and Sorensen hopes that Beacon will provide all the answers he needs. Umbra is given her biggest mission to date, to recruit Beacon to the program. But when Beacon refuses to cooperate, Sorensen devises an elaborate plan to capture and incarcerate her. Stripped of her freedom and her powers, Beacon must decide whether to comply and survive, or fight back and risk everything. Labyrinths of Radiance and Shadow is the sequel to Paths Into Darkness And Light, by Jeffrey Hallett. The book picks up Tricia’s story around a year after her lab accident. With some familiar characters from the first book, Hallett introduces new characters including an evil entrepreneur who sees in Beacon a new breed of enhanced humans. Beacon is a compelling protagonist – fierce, vulnerable and deeply human, despite her special abilities. The dynamic between Beacon and Sorensen is particularly well-drawn, capturing the chilling dance between heroine and villain, captor and captive, creator and destroyer. This is an electrifying (and sometimes terrifying) read that will satisfy readers of science fiction, super-hero fiction, and psychological thrillers. Overall, a fast-paced, action-packed and emotionally charged sequel, with a fierce heroine, a terrifying villain, and a gripping, otherworldly plot. I would recommend reading the Paths Into Darkness And Light by Jeffrey Hallett first. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A dark, science fiction / super-hero fiction novel, with a fierce heroine, a terrifying villain, and a gripping, otherworldly, plot. Purchase here

< Back Cheryl Johnson Creatures of the Rainforest A guidebook about the rainforest, for young explorers. Creatures of the Rainforest is a reference book about the rainforest and the different creatures that live there. The book explores types of organisms in the animal kingdom, where they live, how they look, and how they act. It also includes valuable information about how readers can learn about these creatures, through observation and investigation. It includes lots of fun facts – did you know there are over 430 different kinds of mammals and over 2.5 million different insect species in the rainforest? Featuring some well-known species as well as some lesser well-known species, the book explains the importance of the rainforest and how it impacts on the entire planet. With lots of resources, including a biologist reference sheet, nature notes and fun facts about different species, and access to a free online activity pack, the book will encourage young readers to continue their discovery of nature and biology. On completion of the book, readers are awarded a ‘Junior Rainforest Biologist’ certificate. Creatures of the Rainforest by author and photographer Cheryl Johnson is an educational and entertaining guidebook for young readers. Well researched, full of interesting facts and figures, and sensational photography from Johnson, the book will appeal to anyone interested in nature, biology, and the rainforests. The book will increase awareness of the rainforest and the key issues affecting the rainforest and the creatures that live there. It will help to prompt further discussion and debate about environmental issues and conservation. Written in a simple and engaging way, with clean and clearly structured pages, this book is accessible for readers both young and old. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sensational portfolio of wildlife photography, with fascinating facts about the rainforest, this book will entertain readers for hours. Purchase here

< Back Brian R Estvander Stilled: The Story of Inklebrawt Winklehank An original and gripping sci-fi adventure, by author Brian R Estvander Inklebrawt (Ink) Winklehank is a Huply - a hybrid of a human and a biologically engineered species, created by humans using nanomachinery (the Plythi’i). The Plythi’i are a peaceful and empathetic species, and have psychokinetic abilities, called the Plythi’i Sense. Since their creation, the Plythi’i and Huply have lived in harmony with humans, in a world called Ply’. But the Shepherds, an exiled group of half-breeds and humans, want to eliminate any type of artificial speciation, threaten to attack Ply’ and eradicate all Huply and Plythi’i. Ink has always struggled to balance his advanced Plythi’i abilities and empathic temperament, with his wild human emotions and desires. But, when threatened by the Shepherds, Ink must learn to come to terms with his true identity to locate his Plythi’i siblings and safeguard the future of the human race. Stilled: The Story of Inklebrawt Winklehank by author Brian R Estvander is an original sci-fi adventure about a group of hybrid siblings and their fight for survival against a rogue group of Shepherds who want to eliminate them, and all artificial speciation. It is an epic battle of good versus evil, nature versus technology. The story interweaves effortlessly across galaxies and between past and present, revealing the complex backstory of the species and the characters. Overall, an expertly crafted sci-fi adventure, which brings together science, technology, and human evolution. With a fast-paced and gripping plot, authentic and believable characters, and excellent world building, this book will appeal to fans of action, adventure and science fiction. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An epic sci-fi adventure about a group of hybrid siblings and their fight for survival. Purchase here

< Back Inga Aksamit Between Worlds: An Expat's Quest for Belonging Book blurb... At age thirteen, Inga Aksamit finds herself caught in her second war zone, listening to gunfire in East Pakistan while contemplating what few possessions she can take if evacuated. But her story begins years earlier, when at four years old, her family leaves their comfortable California life behind for a posting in West Pakistan. From a terrifying separation from her mother in a crowded Tokyo train station to hiding under restaurant tables in Hong Kong, young Inga's journey across Asia is just the beginning of a life straddling cultures. As the daughter of an American engineer working on crucial infrastructure projects in Pakistan, she navigates a world of armed compounds, household servants, cultural misunderstandings, and political unrest. "Between Worlds: An Expat's Quest for Belonging" is a vivid memoir that captures the challenges and adventures of growing up as a Western child in South Asia and South America during the 1960s. Through the eyes of a four-year-old and to teenager, Aksamit brings to life the sights, sounds, and smells of a world that no longer exists, while exploring universal themes of identity, belonging, and what it truly means to be home. Perfect for readers who enjoyed "Reading Lolita in Tehran" and "Don't Let's Go to the Dogs Tonight," this memoir offers a unique perspective on a pivotal time in South Asian history through the lens of a young American caught between two worlds. Purchase here

< Back Melissa Rousu Grandpa Loved Wild Things Grandpa Bill loves wild things, and loves to take his grandchildren outside to enjoy nature. He takes them into the snowy forest to find a snowy owl, and teaches them about owl habitats. Grandpa Bill also takes care of injured wild animals in his home. He looks after an injured eagle, and a racoon who has been abandoned by his mother. Grandpa Bill teaches his grandchildren about each animal, and how to take care of them. Another day, Grandpa Bill takes his grandchildren to a lake to look at the ducks. As the grandchildren get older, they spend less time with Grandpa Bill, until one day he joins the wild things he loved so much. His grandchildren remember what he taught them, and they teach their own children all about the wild things their grandpa loved. Grandpa Loved Wild Things by Melissa Rousu is a charming, illustrated picture book that explores the special relationship between grandparents and grandchildren, and the importance of passing down knowledge and stories through generations. Grandpa Bill patiently teaches his grandchildren about nature, and in time those children pass on the same learnings to their own children. The book has a gentle environmental message, encouraging young readers to explore the world around them, and to take care of nature. A perfect book to inspire children to get involved in outdoor activities and nature. Star rating : 5 Stars Summary: A charming, illustrated picture book with a gentle environmental message. Purchase here

< Back Ashley Porsche Bugge The Ocean is Calling A poignant memoir of love and loss, beautifully written by author Ashley Porsche Bugge Thirty-five-year-old Brian James Bugge, sailor, explorer, naval officer, and diver, died tragically in a scuba diving accident in Hawaii on May 20, 2018, leaving behind his two young children, Izzy and Hudson, and wife, Ashley, pregnant with their third child, Adeline. Ashley is heartbroken, as she tries to come to terms with the loss of her beloved husband, best friend and soul mate. Brian was stationed in Hawaii as a US Naval Officer, and the family had built a beautiful home and incredible life on the paradise island. But, with memories and visions of Brian on every part of the island, Ashley is unable to stay in their family home. Just three weeks after Brian’s funeral, Ashley packs up her life and moves with the children to Boise, Idaho, with Brian’s sister, Nikki, and her family. Ashley is stricken with grief and struggles to eat, sleep and drink. She cannot see a future without Brian, and contemplates ending her own life. As her health deteriorates, Ashley is diagnosed with pre-eclampsia and hospitalised. At thirty-five weeks, Ashley is induced early, and baby Adeline is born safely in July 2018. The next few months are hard for Ashley, as she learns how to cope with new motherhood without her ‘tried and true.’ Ashley is determined to pull through and knows she must find something to look forward to. So, she decides to plan an epic trip to Europe, including seven countries in eight weeks. Several months later, with her best friend Kasey, nanny Kayla, and three young children in tow, the party embark on a European adventure of a lifetime. The trip is an opportunity for fun and adventure, but also allows time for Ashley to heal and recover, as she fondly remembers Brian and scatters his ashes in the ocean of each country she visits. Returning home, Ashley is comforted by a letter from one of Brian’s organ donor recipients and she deposits his remaining ashes in the dive site where he tragically lost his life. The Ocean is Calling is a poignant memoir, beautifully written by Ashley Porsche Bugge, wife of Brian who tragically lost his life in a scuba diving accident. Ashley writes about their life together, and his tragic death, with such openness and tenderness. She describes the impact of his death on her health and life with pure, raw emotion. The scenes she describes when she first learnt about his death, said goodbye in the hospital, carried his urn through the airport, and contemplated her own life, are truly heart-breaking. This book is a beautiful and loving tribute, to a man well loved. I’m sure it will provide much comfort to Brian’s family and friends, and his children as they grow older and start to process their own grief. It will help them to remember his life was a life well-lived. It will help them to remember what an extraordinary woman their mother was to overcome such unimaginable pain and loss, and their amazing travels through Europe. The book will provide hope to anyone who has lost a loved one, that even in the darkest of times, one can find happiness. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A beautiful and loving tribute, to a man well loved. Purchase here

< Back Brenda Do It's Okay Not to Know Author Brenda Do encourages the development of positive learning mindsets in young children It's Okay Not to Know, by author Brenda Do, is a picture book that shows that it is okay not to know something, to have an uh-oh moment, or to make a mistake. It explains that it might be easy to feel down when something doesn’t quite go according to plan. But any challenge, no matter how big or small, is a great opportunity to learn something new, and try new things. It shows that learning new things makes you feel good, and encourages further exploration and discovery. It is like opening a surprise present and finding a special gift. It shows that it is also great to be able to help someone when they do not know something, and help them find the answers they do not know. This is a sweet and charming picture book by author Brenda Do. In essence, this story is about acknowledging and learning from failure, and using every experience as an opportunity to learn, grow and develop. Told in simple language, with two sweet characters, this book introduces younger children to the concept of positive learning mindsets in a fun and engaging way. It will provide reassurance to younger readers that it is okay not to know something or to make a mistake. It will help children develop confidence, self-belief and resilience, and will support the development of positive mindsets and learning habits for life. The illustrations by C.S Fritz are cute and colourful, and full of fun. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sweet and charming picture book that will help children develop confidence, self-belief and resilience. Purchase here

< Back Sasha Graham Whitney Wins Everything: A Tiny Ninja Book Competitive Whitney learns an important life lesson from her Tiny Ninja, from author Sasha Graham Whitney really does win everything. From football and roller staking, to running and jumping. She is the best at everything, and she knows it! Whitney’s Tiny Ninja tries to remind her that winning is not always the most important thing, but Whitney doesn’t always listen. Whatever it is, Whitney is determined to win. Until one day, Whitney is not invited to a party because her friends are worried that she will win all the prizes, and then her soccer coach changes the rules so her team cannot win the match. Whitney is confused but soon comes to realise that there are more important things than winning and maybe her Tiny Ninja was right after all. This is a charming children’s picture book, with a positive message about kindness and compassion. It reinforces the message that being kind and helping others to succeed feels good, and is just as rewarding as winning yourself. Some young children are extremely competitive by nature and hate to lose, and this book will remind them to focus their energies on having fun and building good friendships. An important life lesson for both children and adults. The illustrations by Angelina Valieva are colourful, whimsical, and extraordinarily detailed. Children will love to find the Tiny Ninjas hidden in the pictures. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A charming children’s picture book, with a positive message about kindness and compassion. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Laura Lee Rittman Lucky Ruby - A Hanukkah and Christmas Holiday Book The holidays are approaching, and Ruby’s mom and dad are busy decorating the house, but Ruby doesn’t feel as excited as she usually would. Ruby invited her friend, Violet, to her house for a holiday party, and Ruby overheard Violet talking to another girl about Ruby celebrating both Hanukkah and Christmas. Ruby is sad and wonders whether she did the right thing inviting Violet to her home. When Violet arrives, she is initially apprehensive, but soon gets involved in the celebrations. She enjoys cooking latkes with Ruby’s Bubbie, making Christmas Charade medals with Ruby’s cousin, helps Ruby’s mom light the candles on the menorah, and plays spin the dreidel with the entire family. Violet enjoys the party and recognises how lucky Ruby is to celebrate both Hanukkah and Christmas. Lucky Ruby - A Hanukkah and Christmas Holiday Book, is a sweet and charming holiday picture book for young readers, by author Laura Lee Rittman. The book follows the story of Ruby who is worried about her friend visiting her home after she overheard her talking about her celebrating both Hanukkah and Christmas. Violet is welcomed by Ruby’s family and joins in the celebrations, soon realising that celebrating both Hanukkah and Christmas is not so weird after all. The author skilfully blends the two holidays, showing how Ruby’s family decorates the Christmas tree and also lights the menorah for Hanukkah. It is a wonderful introduction to the key holiday traditions of both the Jewish and Christian faiths, and shows how both holidays can be celebrated together. The illustrations by Cennet Kapkac are filled with warm and cosy family holiday scenes, which bring the festivities to life. This is a perfect picture book to share in preparation for the holiday season, and would also make a great Hanukkah or Christmas gift. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A sweet, charming and touching multi-cultural picture book, which celebrates friendship, family and faith in all its forms. Purchase here

< Back Jane Xu Can Pandas Be Koalas Too? A little panda named Pandy lives in Koalaland. Pandy has always believed she was a koala. She enjoys koala songs, games, and school, and her life seems perfectly content until one day, one of her friends questions her identity. He points out her physical differences and her preference for bamboo over eucalyptus leaves, leading Pandy to question who she is and where she truly belongs. The story takes readers on Pandy's emotional journey as she grapples with feelings of confusion and isolation. Her friends offer various perspectives, with one calling her a "Pand-ala," half panda and half koala, but Pandy feels whole, not divided. The turning point comes when she meets a wise platypus, who shares his own experience of being a creature that defies categorization. His advice—that only Pandy can decide who she is—empowers her to embrace her individuality and stop seeking validation from others. Can Pandas Be Koalas Too? by Jane Xu and illustrated by Sang Oh, is a heartwarming and beautifully illustrated children's book that explores themes of identity, belonging, and self-acceptance. The book's message is profound yet simple: identity is not defined by others, but by oneself. This theme is conveyed in a way that is accessible to younger children, encouraging them to celebrate their uniqueness. The story also subtly addresses the challenges of feeling different and the importance of self-confidence, making it a valuable read for children navigating their own identities. Sang Oh's illustrations bring the story to life with soft, watercolor-style visuals. The artwork is whimsical and tender, perfectly complementing Pandy’s emotional journey. Overall, this is a touching and thought-provoking tale that will resonate with readers of all ages. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A beautifully illustrated picture book that celebrates diversity and individuality. Purchase here

< Back Carina Ho & Jesse Byrd Mighty Mara An inspirational book for anyone who has ever struggled to fit in, from authors Carina Ho and Jesse Byrd Everyone is the same in Sametown. Everyone except Mara. Mara is different. She is colour in a world of grey. She is unique in a world of ordinary. But, because of her uniqueness, Mara struggles to find her place in Sametown. What she wants more than anything in the world, is for people to love her just for who she is. Inspired by a TV show, Mara decides to sign up for the school talent show. She wants to show off her dance skills, but no one dances in Sametown, certainly not like Mara anyway. No-one believes she can do it. No-one thinks she has a chance. Will Mara have the courage to dance in the talent show? And will she prove her critics wrong? This is an inspirational story of a unique young girl who struggles to fit in. The odds are stacked against her - no-one believes in her and the environment doesn’t make things easy for her – but, through sheer determination, self-belief, and extraordinary talent, she realises her dream. It will encourage young children not only to accept their differences, but to embrace and celebrate their differences, and to follow their dreams. We liked that there were no words on some of the pages, which will encourage parents and children to discuss the pictures and interpret the events in their own words. The book is beautifully presented and illustrated by Monica Paola Rodriguez. We loved the colours, and the images of Mara standing out and shining in a world of dull grey. We did notice some grammatical errors, and therefore recommend the authors consider a full editorial review. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A beautifully presented picture book about an inspirational young girl with a unique talent. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Kathe Hudson and Melanie Moyer The Magic Peach Tree, A Yoga Storytelling Adventure A magical story about kindness and compassion, with a unique, yoga-inspired twist. The Magic Peach Tree, part of the Yoga Storytelling Adventure series by authors Kathe Hudson and Melanie Moyer is a creative, fun, and interactive illustrated picture book, that combines a traditional Chinese folktale with yoga movement. Young children can read the story, and then retell the story with yoga poses. The book will help children not only to express themselves creatively, but also to engage in physical practice that is beneficial to health and wellbeing. The story, adapted from a Chinese wisdom tale, follows an elderly man who ambles into a village looking for food. He is hungry, but a stall holder refuses to give him a small peach. A young girl shows the elderly man kindness and buys him a peach. After he eats the peach, the man plants the seed in the ground and a peach tree grows, feeding the entire village. The story demonstrates the importance of compassion and will encourage young readers to show kindness towards their neighbours. T he Yoga Storytelling Adventure series is a unique and innovative concept, sure to appeal to young readers who enjoy traditional folk tales and creative activities. The book Includes a Chinese word guide, to help readers develop an appreciation of a different language. Each yoga pose and breathing technique is described, with a visual image to accompany each pose, to guide young readers on their own creative yoga journey. The illustrations by Cher Jiang are stunning and complement the traditional folk tale perfectly. There is also a bonus grilled peach recipe at the end of the book, for those who are inspired by the food in the story! Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A creative, fun, and interactive illustrated picture book, that combines a traditional Chinese folktale with yoga movement. Purchase here