< Back Michael Dow Nurse Florence Why and How Do We Sneeze? A lesson in sneezing from Nurse Florence, by author Michael Dow Friends, Jean, Condi, and Sonia are playing together in the playground, when suddenly Sonia sneezes. At lunch time they sit with Nurse Florence, and Sonia explains that she sneezed whilst playing outside, and asks her to explain why. Nurse Florence explains that there are many different reasons why people sneeze, but one common cause of sneezing is caused by different types of allergens that are present in the air we breathe, such as dust mites, bacteria and pollen. She explains what people can do to reduce sneezing, such as trying to avoid the allergens that make you sneeze, and allergy medications for those who sneeze a lot. Nurse Florence, Why and How Do We Sneeze? By Michael Dow is an educational and entertaining book for young readers about the human body, and why and how people sneeze. This book introduces readers to the human body, biology and medicine, in a fun, engaging, accessible and age-appropriate way for younger readers. The book will help children understand medical terminology and build vocabulary about the human body, and is a great resource for parents, carers, teachers and medical professionals to help explain the workings of the human body to younger aged children. Inspired by the work of Florence Nightingale, this book also provides a great introduction to the role of the nurse, and is ideal for those who are interested in nursing, medicine, science and other healthcare professions. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An educational and entertaining book for young readers about the human body. Highly recommended. Purchase here

< Back Vy Lien The Nervous Noodle: Social Anxiety, Fitting In, and Standing Out How will Nervous Noodle cope on his first day at school? It is Nervous Noodle’s first day at school, and he feels very anxious. He is worried about how he will make new friends. What if no one talks to him? What if he trips and falls? What if he cannot answer the teachers questions? What if? What if? What if? He doesn’t sleep the night before school and cannot eat his breakfast in the morning. When he arrives at school, he notices the other children, easily talking to one another and making new friends. But, when Noodle tries to say hello, no one talks to him. When he trips and falls over in class, he is embarrassed, but the kind teacher helps him into his chair. When the teacher asks him a question, he is so nervous, he gives the wrong answer. Then, at recess, he is scared to approach the children and spends his break alone. When he returns home, Noodle is hungry and exhausted and goes to bed early. The next day, Noodle wakes up feeling a little brighter. He had survived the first day, and he was strong enough to handle anything. At school, he has the courage to talk to the other children, he uses his skills to help another child, and he gets an answer correct. He plays soccer with the other children at recess and even scores the winning goal. Noodle reflects on his day, and concludes he had the best second day at school ever! The Nervous Noodle: Social Anxiety, Fitting In, and Standing Out by author Vy Lien is a fun illustrated picture book about a little boy (Noodle) who feels nervous about his first day at school. Everything that could possibly go wrong, did go wrong for Noodle on his first day. But, Noodle survived it, he picked himself up and he started again. He knew the worst was over, and he realised he was much stronger than he thought he was. The second day was a success, and Noodle soon settled into school. This is a fab story with an important message. The book will help children who might be nervous about starting school, who are scared about starting new activities, or who are feeling anxious in social situations. The book will help parents, carers and teachers talk to children about their feelings and help alleviate their anxieties. The artwork is wonderful, and young children will love the cute and colourful fruit, vegetable, and nut characters. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fun picture book that will help children who struggle with anxiety. Purchase here

< Back Linda Soules So You Want To Be A Pilot So You Want To Be A Pilot by Linda Soules is an engaging and insightful exploration of the world of aviation, written for young readers but with a depth and honesty that will resonate with adults as well. The book is part of the "So You Want To Be..." series, which aims to introduce children to various professions in a way that is both inspiring and realistic. The book opens with a vivid description of the magic of flight—the moment the wheels leave the ground, and the earth falls away. This sets the tone for a narrative that balances the wonder of flying with the technical mastery and responsibility required of pilots. Soules does an excellent job of demystifying the profession, explaining not only what pilots do but also why they do it, and what it feels like to sit in the cockpit at 35,000 feet. The book covers a wide range of topics, from the technical aspects of flying (instruments, checklists, and procedures) to the psychological demands of the job (judgment, decision-making under pressure, and crew resource management). It highlights the importance of preparation, discipline, and continuous learning, emphasizing that aviation is safe not because pilots are heroes, but because the industry has built a culture of learning from mistakes and prioritizing safety above all else. Soules discusses the challenges of the profession, such as irregular schedules and time away from home, alongside the unique rewards of the job. The book includes fun facts, a glossary of aviation terms, and profiles of famous pilots like Amelia Earhart and Sully Sullenberger. Practical advice for aspiring pilots—such as building paper airplanes, studying weather, and visiting airports—encourages curiosity and hands-on learning. So You Want To Be A Pilot succeeds as both a career guide and a celebration of aviation. It invites readers to dream, but also to prepare, learn, and respect the discipline of the profession. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A thoughtful, beautifully crafted introduction to the world of airline pilots. Purchase here

< Back Vicki Scott Burns Charli's Turtle Triumph: A Marine Biology Adventure Book blurb... On a school field trip to the aquarium, Charli meets a marine biologist who rescues sea turtles. Charli can't stop wondering what it would be like to be a marine biologist herself. Soon, she is lost in a turtle daydream. When she finds a weak sea turtle stranded on the beach, it's up to Charli and her friends to save him - and to figure out a way to help save all sea turtles! Purchase here

< Back Caryn Rivadeneira Monster Match: Frankinschool Book 1 Fred meets his monster match. Fred is given a book by his teacher, following an author visit, which is inscribed to a Frank. It is a mystery, as Fred definitely recalls his mom asking for the inscription for Fred. In creative writing, the class is asked to write a story about What if...? Fred looks at his new book and has an idea. What if I am Frank in school? Frank-in-school? Frankinschool? As Fred starts to pen his story, a green mist covers the classroom, the children fall asleep, and Fred discovers that his story has come to life. He is magically transformed into Frankinschool, and his enemy, Luisa, has also transformed into Princess Maria Luisa Octavia. The pair learn that they must work together to solve the mystery of green mist to wake their classmates. Frankinschool and Princess visit the school attic, where they find a laboratory infested with bats, mice, and a rather friendly ghost, named Frank. Frank has invented a potion to send children to sleep so that he can steel their books. Frank wants his book back and will do anything to get it! Will Frankinschool and Princess recover the book before Frank finds it? Will Frank ever escape from the confines of the attic? And can they wake their classmates from their slumber? Monster Match: Frankinschool Book 1 by author Caryn Rivadeneira is a funny and entertaining chapter book for middle grade readers about a young boy who writes a story and is suddenly transformed into Frankinschool in his creative writing class. He must join forces with his number one enemy, to help him solve the mystery and return back to his human self. This is a unique and imaginative book, and will appeal to children who enjoy fantasy, adventure, and suspense. A great first instalment of a planned series, and I look forward to more adventures from Frankinschool and Princess. The wonderful black and white illustrations by Dani Jones complement the story perfectly. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A funny, entertaining, and slightly spooky chapter book for middle grade readers. Purchase here

< Back Julie Ellis Williams Bella Joins the Service Bella Joins the Service by Julie Ellis Williams is a children’s picture book that captures the bond between a man and his dog, while highlighting the important role of service animals. The story follows Bella, a young Labrador, and her owner, Kirk, as they navigate a life-changing event. Kirk, an adventurous young man, enjoys an active lifestyle in the Colorado mountains with Bella by his side. However, their lives take a dramatic turn when Kirk is involved in a mountain bike accident, leaving him unable to use his arms and legs as he once did. Bella, sensing Kirk’s struggles, joins “the service” and trains as a service dog to help Kirk adapt to his new way of life. The story is told from Bella’s perspective, and readers are drawn into her world as she learns to assist Kirk with everyday tasks, such as turning lights on and off, picking up dropped items, and even helping him navigate with his wheelchair. The book highlights Bella’s determination and the challenges she faces during her training, emphasizing the importance of patience, perseverance, and love. The book addresses complex topics, such as disability and adaptation, in a way that young children will relate to. The story emphasizes the importance of resilience and finding new ways to enjoy life, even in the face of adversity. The water-color style illustrations by Penny Weber are warm and endearing, capturing the essence of the story beautifully. Based on a true story, this book is a beautiful and heartfelt tribute to the authors son Kirk, and his beloved dog, Bella. The book also provides valuable information about service dogs, including how families can train their own dogs and how shelter dogs can become service animals. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A heart-warming and inspiring tale of the bond between a man and his dog, and the valuable work of service animals. Purchase here

< Back Vivian Blair Sir Winter the Manatee: Crown of the Sea Book blurb... Sir Winter, a young manatee calf, has suffered a great loss. After the passing of his father, Sir Winter seeks comfort and guidance from his mother. Ma helps create a safe space for her calf, offering reassurance and helping him express his grief in a healthy loving way. The gentle tone and meaningful dialogue between Ma and Sir Winter make this story a touching exploration of life, love, and legacy. When a loved one dies, it can be hard to know how to explain it to a young child- especially when you are grieving yourself. After losing my son on Easter Sunday, I channeled my sorrow into this story, returning to memories of his childhood. Sir Winter the Manatee: Crown of the Sea is a gentle book to help navigate loss with love and understanding. Because children under five years of age need to have their grief acknowledged and their distress comforted, this story offers comfort, hope, and healing to families who are mourning, especially the youngest hearts among us. Purchase here

< Back Aspry J Jones AJ Learns Self-Love Book blurb... AJ has a problem. Mickey is not being a good friend, and AJ doesn’t know what to do. Should he keep letting Mickey mistreat him, or is there a better way to handle it? Purchase here

< Back Karen B. Shea Clark the Mountain Beaver and His Big Adventure! Clark the Mountain Beaver and His Big Adventure! is a delightful children’s picture book by Karen B. Shea that combines an engaging story with educational elements about nature and wildlife. The vibrant illustrations by Kelly Halpin bring the characters and their surroundings to life. The story follows Clark, a shy and secretive mountain beaver who lives in burrows near Lake Washington. Often mistaken for the more popular American Beaver, Clark feels invisible and misunderstood. Determined to change his life, he embarks on a big adventure to explore the world above ground and make new friends. Along the way, he meets a variety of critters, including the Squirrely family, Bella the Black-Tailed Deer, Hep the Bald Eagle, and Lewis the American Beaver. Each encounter teaches Clark valuable lessons about friendship, self-acceptance, and the importance of embracing one’s unique qualities. The book is a heart-warming tale that encourages children to appreciate their individuality and understand that differences can be celebrated rather than feared. Clark’s journey is relatable for young readers who may struggle with self-confidence or feeling out of place. His interactions with other animals highlight the importance of kindness, empathy, and the beauty of diversity. Shea’s writing is accessible and engaging, making it easy for children to follow along while also introducing them to the natural world. The story is interwoven with educational facts about the habits and characteristics of various animals. The book also includes a historical section about the real Lewis and Clark expedition, providing a brief yet informative overview of their journey and the discovery of the mountain beaver. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A charming and educational children’s book that will captivate children and adults alike. 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

< Back Megan Helm Earth Science: An Introduction to How Our World Works Megan Helm’s Earth Science: An Introduction to How Our World Works is an accessible and engaging primer on the fundamental concepts that shape our planet and its place in the universe. The book is thoughtfully organized, beginning with an introduction to the field of Earth science and progressing through a logical sequence of topics: the solar system, the moon, eclipses, Earth’s processes, and contemporary issues like climate change. Helm explains complex scientific phenomena, such as the formation of the solar system, the rock cycle, and plate tectonics, in simple, straightforward language. For example, the explanation of moon phases uses clear diagrams and relatable analogies, helping readers visualize why the moon appears to change shape throughout the month. Similarly, the section on eclipses demystifies the difference between solar and lunar eclipses, addressing common questions with concise answers. The book excels in connecting scientific concepts to everyday experiences. The discussion of weather fronts and pressure systems, for instance, not only defines terms but also explains how these phenomena affect daily weather, making the science relevant and practical. The inclusion of real-world examples, such as the Kola Superdeep Borehole in the section on Earth’s layers, adds depth and context. Helm also addresses urgent global issues, dedicating a chapter to climate change. This section is particularly effective, outlining the causes, effects, and potential solutions in a balanced and hopeful manner. The book encourages readers to consider their own impact on the environment, offering actionable suggestions like using clean energy and recycling. Visually, the book is well-supported by diagrams and illustrations that reinforce the text, aiding comprehension. The glossary at the end is a valuable resource for readers encountering scientific terminology for the first time. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An excellent educational resource, which makes Earth science approachable, relevant, and inspiring for its audience. Purchase here

< Back Deborah Cholette Digger: Dig or Die! Nick and his friends battle to save humanity from an environmental disaster. It is just another ordinary day at school for Nick, when his friend Stewie charges into the classroom yelling the sky is falling. The school implements emergency evacuation procedures, and Nick and his friends are sent home. NASA officials confirm there is a large crack in the earth’s magnetosphere, causing the atmosphere to leak out into space. The level of breathable air has fallen to just a few miles above sea level, and people are advised to move to the lowest altitude possible. Not doing so may result in death! Nick, his mom, and his sister move into the basement of their house. Unbeknownst to his family, Nick has previously dug a secret tunnel from his house to the ravine. Nick was inspired by his builder-dad, who left the family home some years ago. As the level of breathable air continues to fall, everyone’s life is in danger and the most vulnerable members of the community are isolated in their homes. To help those in greatest need, Nick has an idea to dig further tunnels and connect the houses in the community by an underground network. As Nick enlists the help of his trusted friends, there are others in the community who will stop at nothing to save themselves. Digger: Dig or Die! is an illustrated book for newly independent readers by Deborah Cholette. This is a thought-provoking, fast-paced, action packed, sci-fi adventure, set in a post-apocalyptic world. The book considers what might happen if humans ignore the climate change emergency and continue to burn fossil fuels. Nick and his friends come together to try and save humanity and repair the damage to the earth, caused by adults. Along the way, the kids are faced with a number of obstacles and moral dilemmas, which tests their friendship and their own belief systems. The book encourages readers to think critically about the environment and climate change, and will hopefully inspire young readers to take action to protect it. Overall, an imaginative yet entirely believable science fiction story. Perfect for readers who enjoy science fiction and are interested in the environment and climate change. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : An imaginative, thought-provoking, action packed, sci-fi adventure, about a group of kids who try and save humanity and repair the damage to the earth, caused by adults. Purchase here