< Back I.K. Silver Little Wanderers: The Everlasting Seasons A tiny dwarf goes on a big adventure into the unknown, by author I.K. Silver Snowy is a tiny, grumpy dwarf who lives in the Winter Village, where winter lingers all year long. He spends his days cutting down trees in the forest, in the freezing snow and biting winds, but he dreams of adventure and a better life. Snowy hasn’t ventured beyond the village, and wants to explore the outside world. When he reads a book about the Originem, a village from another age and time, where there is undiscovered treasure, and the sun always shines and the green grass grows, he decides that’s where he must go. So he packs his bags and leaves the pearly white village to find the Originem and its hidden treasure. Snowy sets off and meets a new friend, Kokoro, and together they travel through magical lands, where they meet lots of strange creatures and encounter many dangers along the way. Their journey is long and hard, but before they reach their final destination, the friends must first solve the mysteries surrounding the four villages of everlasting seasons. Little Wanderers: The Everlasting Seasons is a captivating fantasy adventure book by author IK Silver, with a multitude of interesting creatures and characters, an enticing plot, and a magical world that will engage middle grade readers. This is an action-packed book, full of imagination, exploration and adventure, which will appeal to those who enjoy fantasy fiction and adventure stories. Snowy is a unique, funny and strong-willed character, who shows strength, courage and determination to leave his home and follow his dream. The book has all the key ingredients for a wonderful fantasy fiction story, a magical world, adventure and danger, colourful characters, and valuable life lessons. The book is most suited to younger readers in this age category. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A captivating fantasy adventure, with a multitude of interesting characters, an enticing plot, and a magical world that will engage middle grade readers. Purchase here

< Back Daniel Collins The Little Candle Book blurb... This children's picture book follows a short candlestick's journey to self-acceptance. The story begins in a candle shop, where the short candle is bought by a man as a holiday gift for his youngest daughter Tonya. Tonya treasures it as her own holiday candle, carrying it with her as a valued possession during the Christmas Holiday. The short candle eventually realizes that his size doesn't matter when it comes to making someone happy. He soon learned that he was a century candle, and that he was made to burn for a hundred years or more. So joyful was he to learn this that he would have jumped for joy had he been gifted with any legs. Through the example of a candle, The Little Candle shows readers why comparing oneself to others isn't worthwhile. Everyone has their own special gifts and talents and it is recognized by others, although it may not be apparent at the moment. Purchase here

< Back Tricia Copeland Azreya Aztec Priestess A young Aztec girl's journey of courage, self-discovery and emancipation. Azreya is born with light eyes and a mark on her hand. Her parents fear she is cursed, and they seek advice from a shaman, Nukpana, just two days after her birth. Nukpana confirms Azreya is Tepeyollotl, the Aztec god and Lord of Darkness, with hidden powers and the ability to transform into a beast. Nukpana suggests he trains Azreya to subdue her inner beast, help her learn to control it, and harness her gifts. Just before her fourth birthday, Azreya is sent to live with Nukpana. He trains her daily through games, physical activity, and meditation. She connects with her inner beast, a spotted leopard she names Tecuani. She also discovers her special gift is the ability to hear other peoples thoughts and see the future. For many years Azreya is hidden away, but, as Nukpana attempts to reintroduce her into society, she is ridiculed because she is different to other children. As Azreya harnesses her gifts, Nukpana asks her to help him perform his shaman duties incognito. Azreya is able to help many people by looking into their future and diverting them from danger. Soon, word gets out that Nukpana is an exceptional shaman, and he is asked to help the King. But when Azreya learns that Nukpana has lied to the King, and also realises he has exploited her for many years, she decides to escape. Alone, afraid, and scared her inner beast might surface, Azreya goes in search of her family. But, when Nukpana reveals Azreya’s true identity, she is soon pursued by the King and his army. Azreya, Aztec Priestess, by author Tricia Copeland is an engrossing chapter book for middle grade readers based on Aztec mysticism and mythology. The book is told from Azreya’s perspective, a young girl born with special gifts and extraordinary powers. The book follows her journey from birth to her teenage years, as she is torn from her family and forced to live with a shaman who exploits her for his own personal gain. It is a journey of courage, self-discovery, and emancipation, as Azreya fights for her life and her people. I thoroughly enjoyed this story, and the illustrations by Matt Maes are divine. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fascinating and engaging book about Aztec mythology for middle grade readers. Purchase here

< Back Nick Vakalopoulos There's Something About ROBINS The beautiful robin is captured in this children’s picture book, by author and wildlife photographer, Nick Vakalopoulos. There's Something About ROBINS follows a robin in its natural habitat, as it hops in the grass, searches for food, listens for predators, and prods the ground to find a worm or a bug. The robin soars through the sky before landing on the ground to feed its young. There's Something About ROBINS features glorious technicolour photographs of Robins in their natural environment, taken and edited by Vakalopoulos. This book is a great introduction to robins for young readers, but older readers will enjoy the photography too. We might be fortunate to spot a robin in nature, but we rarely get an opportunity to see a robin up close, and in this level of detail. The robin is a stunning bird, and the photographs wouldn’t look out of place on a festive greetings card. The book might inspire children and adults to grab their binoculars and explore birds in their natural habitats. While aimed at a younger audience, this book is a great reference for readers of all ages. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A glorious book about the beautiful robin, and a perfect resource for wildlife enthusiasts. Purchase here

< Back Julie Ellis Williams The Trouble With Milo Minus The Trouble with Milo Minus, written by Julie Ellis Williams and illustrated by Bill Dussinger, is a delightful and meaningful children’s story that cleverly blends math concepts with important social-emotional lessons. The book centers on Milo Minus, a character who embodies negativity—both as a math symbol and in his behavior. Milo is portrayed as a bully who takes away from others, whether it’s snacks, points in games, or simply the joy of those around him. His actions leave him isolated and lonely, a situation many children can relate to, either from personal experience or observation. The narrative takes a thoughtful turn when Milo encounters Zeb Zero, a character who challenges Milo’s belief that he must always be negative because of his “minus” identity. Zeb demonstrates that even a zero can be helpful and valued by others, encouraging Milo to reconsider his actions and their impact. This pivotal moment is both educational and empowering, showing young readers that change is possible and that one’s identity is not fixed by past behavior or labels. A particularly creative aspect of the story is how it uses math operations as metaphors for personal growth and relationships. When Milo and another minus sign, Maddy, are knocked off a bench together, they discover that “two negatives make a positive.” This clever play on mathematical rules reinforces the idea that collaboration and openness to change can lead to positive outcomes, both in math and in life. The illustrations by Bill Dussinger are lively and engaging. The visual storytelling complements the text, making the book accessible and enjoyable for young readers. The story’s classroom origins are evident in its interactive and discussion-friendly approach, encouraging children to think about their own behavior and how they can make a difference. The Trouble with Milo Minus is an excellent resource for parents, teachers, and counselors seeking to foster empathy and resilience in young readers. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A clever, well-crafted, kid-tested, and librarian-approved picture book that uses humor, math, and heart to teach children about the power of positive change. Purchase here

< Back Jeffrey Hope Real Spies Don't Use Rowboats It is 1976 and the first day of summer in Cricket Cove, a small town on the coast of Maine. The Hassenfuss brothers are planning a summer of spy-filled adventure in their homemade rowboat. Fifth-grader John and fourth-grader Sam are spies in training and members of their own James Bond Society. When their dad buys an outboard motor, the brothers plan to use it on their boat, to explore the bay and hone their spy skills. But when their mom announces a work conference in New York, the boys are taken on an unexpected road trip to the big city. Family friends, the Johnsons, stay in their house while their own house is being renovated. The Hassenfuss family explore the sights of New York, and the brothers meet a real-life detective who gives them a special investigative training manual. But, when the boys return home to Cricket Cove, with a plan to try out their new spy skills, they soon discover that the Johnson family have broken a cardinal rule that could ruin the rest of their summer. Real Spies Don't Use Rowboats is a chapter book for newly independent readers, by author Jeffrey Hope. Set in 1976, the book follows the Hassenfuss brothers as they embark on a summer break filled with discovery, adventure and brotherly bonds. The brothers spend their days on their trusty rowboat, pretending to be spies on secret missions. Hope captures the essence of the 1970s, and the innocence and curiosity of childhood, beautifully. Full of brotherly love and lots of banter, this is a timeless story that will transport readers back to a simpler time, defined by outdoor adventures, imaginative play, and community spirit. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A gentle, funny and nostalgic tale, beautifully capturing the joy of summer during childhood. Purchase here

< Back Ian Slatter The Jellybean Detective Club Book blurb... Can you solve all 10 cases? Max and Maisie Morse might seem like ordinary 11 year olds, but to their friends, family and the residents of Chadmouth they are The Jellybean Detective Club. Liars, cheats, con-artists and thieves beware - The Jellybean Detective Club is on the case. Featuring 10 short stories for you to solve, with the solutions at the end of the book, join Max and Maisie as they pit their wits against: * The Case of the Hideous Vase * The Case of the Missing Test Paper * The Case of the E-Bike Break-In * The Case of the Stolen Snowboard * The Case of the Artist’s Gift * The Case of the Very Cross Coach * The Case of the Slippery Snake * The Case of the Supermega Breakfast Challenge * The Case of the Chadmouth Panther * The Case of the Terrible Tagger. With a short-story format that will appeal to reluctant readers, The Jellybean Detective Club's puzzle element also encourages youngsters to think for themselves whilst enjoying the stories. Perfect for fans of middle grade mystery books. Purchase here

< Back Hans Ness Rolo the Pet Earthling Will a pet earthling discover the truth about his species? Zira, a Blorxling from the planet Blorx, wants a pet earthling. She begs her mom for many years, until one day she receives her very own human pet. She names the little earthling Rolo, and he soon settles into his new home. Luckily, Rolo is potty trained, but he does like to sneak into Zira’s bed at nighttime. As Rolo grows taller, hairier, and smellier, he becomes unsettled and very bored. While out walking one day with Zira, they meet a group of animal rights activists in the park. The activists are protesting about the rights of earthlings, chanting ‘Earthlings have rights too.’ Rolo becomes curious and wonders, Where do earthlings come from? And how did they live before they were pets? As he hangs out with his earthling friends in the park, he is spotted by the Animal Control Force and captured for not wearing his harness. Scared and confused, Rolo manages to escape from the bots. He is chased into a wormhole and finds himself in the big city, far away from his family and beloved Zira. Can Rolo find his way home before the Animal Control Force catch him? And will he ever discover the truth about the origins of his species? Rolo the Pet Earthling is a chapter book for middle grade readers by author Hans Ness. The book follows the adventures of a young alien from the planet Blorx and her earthling pet, Rolo. Owner and pet are involved in a fast paced and frantic cat and mouse chase, as they try to find one another before the human-catchers do. This is a fun book, set in a captivating alien world where human/animal roles are reversed. Children will enjoy the story and laugh out loud as the pet earthlings are treated in the same way we treat our pet dogs. This is a brilliant concept, with a compelling alien world and a captivating cast of weird and wonderful characters. The book will delight young readers who enjoy fantasy, science fiction, and funny stories. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A creative, imaginative, and funny book for middle grade readers, about a young alien and her beloved human pet. Purchase here

< Back Sarah Lloyd Emma Murphy and the Ultimate Power An imaginative and entertaining debut novel by author Sarah Lloyd. Emma Murphy is a quiet, shy, ordinary girl, but on one extraordinary day at school, her life is turned upside down and changed forever. Her Uncle Rossa unexpectedly turns up at her school, and teleports her to another part of the city, where she meets her Aunt Scarlet and her cousins Jade and Simon. Emma learns that her parents have been arrested and detained by an alien government agency, and that her family has harboured a dark secret for many years. Emma and her family set out to rescue her parents and find shelter in a secret safe house. Emma discovers that her parents are not who she thought they were, and that she is a direct descendant of an alien Queen, with magical, superhuman powers. As Emma comes to terms with her new identity and new powers, she is thrust into battle with the aliens. Will Emma learn how to control her powers and save her family? And will she take up her rightful place as Queen of an alien planet? Emma Murphy and the Ultimate Power is an imaginative and entertaining chapter book about a young girl who discovers her true identity and is thrown into an extraordinary alien world of wonder and magic. The first book in a series of three, the ‘Ultimate Power’ is a great introduction to science fiction for younger readers. Emma is a relatable and likeable character, who must conquer her fears to save her family and secure her future. Her confidence grows throughout the book, and she transforms from a shy, anxious girl, into a strong, powerful, young woman. A great role model for girls and young women! I can’t wait to read more about Emma and her alien adventures in the future. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: Set in an extraordinary alien world with a strong female protagonist, this is a great introduction to science fiction for younger readers. Purchase here

< Back Betty Cetas Moe and the Tree Climbers Moe and the Tree Climbers, part of Troll Tales and Other Stories from Grandma’s Cottage by Betty Cetas, is a sweet and gentle children’s story set in the enchanting woods of Finland. The story follows Moe, a clumsy and timid moose, whose journey from fear to bravery forms the heart of this delightful tale. Moe is a charming protagonist. He is awkward, easily frightened, and often finds himself in sticky situations. Young readers will relate to his vulnerability and laugh out loud at the funny situations he finds himself in. When Moe gets his antlers stuck in a tree, he is discovered by two children, Isabelle and Elijah. Their gentle approach and willingness to free Moe from the tree highlight themes of empathy and trust. When the children find themselves in trouble, Moe overcomes his own fears to help them, demonstrating courage and the importance of helping others. Through Moe’s journey, children learn about overcoming fears, the value of friendship, and the rewards of kindness. The story also subtly encourages problem-solving and teamwork, as the children and Moe work together to overcome a problem. The whimsical illustrations by Ugur Kose bring the characters and woodland setting to life beautifully. The language is simple yet evocative, making it suitable for early readers or for reading aloud at bedtime. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A heart-warming and beautifully illustrated story, with a charming protagonist. Purchase here

< Back Linda Oatman High First There Was Bird It’s the first day of the summer vacation and eleven-year-old Magnolia from Murdock, Mississippi, is looking forward to lots of adventures. But first, Magnolia must work in her mother’s beauty salon. Magnolia’s mother would like her to become a beauty pageant queen, but Magnolia does not like the attention and has other ideas. Just as she is about to finish her first shift, she accidently leaves the salon door open and her beloved pet cockatiel, named Third Bird, escapes. Magnolia is distraught as her late father won the bird at a carnival and she promised him that she would take good care of Third Bird, just before he passed away. She meets a boy named Jeremiah, who recently moved to Murdock, and he agrees to help her look for the bird. Magnolia and Jeremiah’s shared grief strengthens their bond, creating a ‘Dead Daddies Club’ of mutual understanding. Magnolia and Jeremiah search the whole town, but Third Bird is nowhere to be found. During their hunt, the pair search the local prison, break into a church, and meet lots of different people on the way. These new friends join Magnolia and Jeremiah on their quest, forming a diverse and supportive community. As the hunt for Third Bird continues, Magnolia has an important decision to make about the next beauty pageant. First There Was Bird by author Linda Oatman High is a tender and heartfelt coming-of-age story about grief, friendship, and community, told through the eyes of a young girl named Magnolia. When Magnolia’s beloved pet escapes, she embarks on a journey that leads her to unexpected friendships, self-discovery, and healing. The story delves into complex themes of loss, racism, forgiveness, and acceptance, in an age-appropriate way for this group. Magnolia’s journey culminates in a poignant moment at her father’s grave, where she finds peace and courage. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A beautifully written, poignant, and touching exploration of grief, and the importance of friendships and community. Purchase here

< Back Gail Scoates Puma: A Shelter Dog Becomes a Hero Puma: A Shelter Dog Becomes a Hero is a moving and inspirational story by Gail Scoates, following the journey of a shelter dog named Puma, who overcomes trauma and adversity to become a hero and a valued member of a first responder therapy team. The story is told from Puma’s perspective, immersing readers in the dog’s fears, hopes, and gradual healing. The narrative captures the confusion and pain of abandonment, the terror of storms (both literal and metaphorical), and the slow, cautious growth of trust. This approach makes Puma’s journey deeply relatable and emotionally resonant. Scoates does not shy away from the harsh realities of animal shelters—loneliness, uncertainty, and the longing for a forever home. The book also highlights the dedication of shelter staff and volunteers, as well as the challenges they face. Through characters like Captain Mike and Officer Park, the story honors those who work tirelessly to protect and care for animals. At its core, the book is about second chances. Puma’s transformation—from a frightened, injured stray, to a confident therapy dog—serves as a powerful metaphor for healing. The book also provides insight into therapy dog training, the certification process, and the important role therapy dogs play in supporting first responders and community members. It also touches on broader issues such as animal welfare, responsible pet ownership, and the importance of kindness. The book is suitable for readers of all ages, especially animal lovers, families, and those interested in rescue stories. It can be used in educational settings to foster empathy and discussions about animal care and community service. The inclusion of real-life inspiration and endnotes grounds the story in reality, making it both uplifting and informative. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A heartfelt, well-crafted narrative that will resonate with anyone who has ever loved an animal or believed in the power of second chances. Purchase here