< Back Nicole Encarnacion My ABC'S to Positivity Author Nicole Encarnacion inspires confidence, self-belief, and positivity in young children, through an alphabet picture book. My ABC'S to Positivity is a unique and educational alphabet-style picture book by Nicole Encarnacion. The book aims to inspire confidence, self-belief, and positivity in young children, through 26 positive affirmations, each beginning with a letter of the alphabet. The book features a young girl, in a variety of different scenes, as she reminds herself just how unique and wonderful she is. With empowering positive affirmations through the alphabet, including A for Awesome, K for Kindness and W for Worthy, the book will encourage young children to practice their own positive affirmations in front of the mirror every day: ‘Every morning before I start my day. I look in the mirror and I say...I am awesome, flaws and all.’ This easy-to-read and engaging picture book will encourage both children and adults to practice positive affirmations. It will help children to learn the alphabet, whilst at the same time supporting the development of new knowledge and new vocabulary. This book is a great resource for parents, carers, and teachers to help nurture confidence and self-belief in young children. With fifteen pages of additional resources, including fun activities for children, the book would make a great addition to any home or school library. Beautifully written in rhyme, with fun and bright illustrations by Mayank Sharma, this book will engage and captivate younger audiences. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An easy-to-read and engaging picture book that will encourage both children and adults to practice positive affirmations. Purchase here

< Back Olunosen Louisa Ibhaze Crowning Glory: A history of African hair tradition Queenie ties her hair in knots, trying to find an interesting topic for her school history project, by author Olunosen Louisa Ibhaze Crowning Glory: A history of African hair tradition, is the first book in the Africa is Not a Country Series. Twins, Queenie and King, are preparing for a school history project about different continents and cultures of the world. King has an idea for a project, but Queenie doesn’t know what to do. Queenie visits Mrs Ojo’s hair salon with her mummy, where she admires the photographs on the salon wall of indigenous African hairstyles. Mrs Ojo explains the rich history, traditions, and culture of African hairstyles, from early African communities to the present day, from African Kings and Queens to enslaved Africans, and from Bantu knots and cornrows, to locs, braids, and afros. When it’s Queenie’s turn to have her hair styled, she opts for Bantu knots and gold accessories, just like the photograph on the wall. When she gets home, Queenie tells King about her visit to the hair salon, and the great idea she has for her history project, the ‘Crowning Glory Project,’ in appreciation of Africa’s Indigenous hair tradition. This is an educational and entertaining picture book, providing a rich insight into African history, culture, and hair. Olunosen Louisa Ibhaze presents historical facts and information in a fun and engaging way for younger readers, which will inspire readers to learn more about this fascinating topic. The characters, twins Queenie and King, are sweet and adorable and relatable to this age group, and I look forward to hearing more about their adventures and their great ancestors in future books in this series. With additional resources and fun activities at the end of the book, this book would be a valuable resource in any home, public or school library to celebrate the history and culture of Africa. The beautiful illustrations by Alaba Onajin, represent the rich culture, colours and diversity of Africa and complement the book perfectly. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An educational and entertaining picture book, providing a rich insight into African history, culture, and hair, superbly told by Olunosen Louisa Ibhaze. Purchase here

< Back Laurie Anne Zaleski Travels with Ariel - What's up in Baker Lake? Can a young scientist rescue injured caribou and repair a twenty-year-old borehole? Eleven-year-old Ariel is passionate about the earth, rocks, and science. After winning first place in an International Science Fair at school, she is selected for a HER ( Headquarters of Environmental Resolution) mentorship program . As part of the program, she has the opportunity to work alongside real scientists and be part of a real-life scientific investigation. She is given an assignment in Baker Lake, Canada, and travels with her mom and beloved dog, Champ, to a site on the very edge of the Arctic Circle. She meets her mentor, a world-renowned geomorphologist Dr Bryce, and learns that several caribou have been injured near a damaged borehole on the Arctic Tundra. Her mission is to work with the scientists to investigate, repair, and recalibrate the old borehole and safeguard the migrating caribou. Ariel and the team trek to the site and find an injured caribou and her young calf. They secure the site and take the injured caribou back to the town for treatment. As the caribou are treated, the scientists attempt to repair the borehole, so it can continue to capture important data about the terrain. Will the caribou recover from their injuries? Can they be released back into the wild to continue their journey? And will the team be able to repair the twenty-year-old borehole to secure the site for future generations? Travels with Ariel - What's up in Baker Lake? by author Laurie Anne Zaleski is a chapter book for newly independent readers about a young girl who goes on a scientific adventure of a lifetime to the Arctic Tundra. Ariel is a charming, likeable, and fun character, with a love for geology and conservation, and a passion for adventure. Her journey is inspiring, as she wins a contest and fulfils her dream to be involved in a real-life scientific investigation. The book is full of interesting facts and figures about the earth, geology, and science in general, and will encourage young readers to explore more about these fascinating subjects. I hope this book will inspire a love of STEM, and the next generation of geologists and scientists. Fascinating, insightful, and inspiring. Who said rocks were boring? Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A wonderful, inspiring story about a young geologist who goes on an amazing adventure to the Arctic Tundra, Purchase here

< Back Kim C. Lee and Dr. Troy E. Boddy A Proud History for Alex Alex celebrates Black history and culture on a special field trip. Ms. Robinson is planning a field trip to the Sandy Spring Slave Museum and African Art Gallery. The students are excited, but one student named Alex is apprehensive. He has learnt about slavery, and doesn’t want the trip to make him sad or angry. Alex’s mom reassures him, and his dad agrees to accompany him on the trip. During the trip, Alex and the other students learn that Black history did not start with slavery, but that slavery interrupted Black history. They learn about the continent of Africa and how enslaved Black people built the foundations of the United States of America. They learn about Black culture; influential Black people such as Martin Luther King Jnr; how Africans created science, mathematics, religion, medicine, and education; the Civil Rights Movement; and notable achievements of Black people. While Alex and some other students are distressed when they hear about racism and discrimination against Black people, Alex is proud when he learns that his own family are part of the history of Sandy Spring. A Proud History for Alex is an inspiring and thought-provoking picture book for newly independent readers by authors Kim C. Lee and Dr. Troy E. Boddy. The book follows the journey of Alex and a group of young students as they visit the Sandy Spring Slave Museum and African Art Gallery on a school field trip, and learn more about Black history. The book captures Alex’s emotions; his initial apprehension about the trip, and feelings of pride when he learns how enslaved African people built America, and how Black culture has shaped society. The book provides an engaging summary of Black history, accessible for young readers. The authors emphasise the contributions and achievements of African Americans, highlighting their significant role in shaping the nation. The book also addresses the struggles faced by American Americans, in an age-appropriate way. I particularly enjoyed the mixed method artwork, which creates a powerful visual narrative and complements the text beautifully. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : An inspiring and thought-provoking picture book for younger readers, celebrating Black history and Black culture in the United States. Purchase here

< Back Jodi Dee Energy Wars - The Awakening Myles is an average, almost fourteen year old, student at Whitmore Public School. It’s just an ordinary day at school when Myles notices something unusual. A huge, flaming ball of fire, bursts out of Tommy Milfoil’s mouth towards Sally Munson. Invisible to everyone except Myles, the fireballs fly across the school, like an energy war between the students. Myles notices how the intensity of the fireballs change, depending on the energy of the people. He can see peoples energy fields, and how one person can positively or negatively impact another person’s energy, just by being near them. Myles learns that everything on the planet has an energy field, and for humans, the positive things that make people happy, like friendship or love, can increase a person’s energy field. On the other hand, negative things, like the stress associated with an exam, can put a person’s energy field on high alert. Strangely, Myles is unable to see his Principal’s energy field. When Myles’ father gives him a number of boxes left to him by his late grandmother, he discovers she had a secret life and connections with a number of important, historical figures. As Myles sets out to uncover the truth about the peculiar energy wars, and his grandmother’s secret life, he soon discovers he has a special gift and an important, clandestine mission he must fulfil. Energy Wars - The Awakening, by author Jodi Dee, is a fun, fast-paced, sci-fi, adventure for middle grade readers. The book follows the journey of Myles, as he discovers he has a special gift and unique powers. Myles is a likeable character, with typical teen troubles, that many readers will relate to. The book centres not only on his powers, but also his friendships, as he tries to navigate his new world. With plenty of quantum physics for the most avid sci-fi readers, coupled with a bit of mystery and a lot of action, this story has all the right ingredients to make this a superb middle-grade novel. The book ends on a gripping cliff-hanger, and I hope there isn’t too long to wait for the next instalment! Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A gripping and thought-provoking sci-fi novel for middle grade readers, full of action and adventure. Purchase here

< Back Eliana Hidalgo Mrs Owl's Messy Library Mrs Owl has so many books, she doesn’t know what to do with them all. Mrs Owl had many, many books. She loved all of her books, but her library was a mess! It was crowded, dark and very, very dusty. One day, Mrs Owl couldn’t find one of her favorite books. She searched the library and tripped over a pile of books, falling all the way down the stairs. Mrs Owl had finally had enough of the mess and decided to clean the whole library. Several weeks later, the library was thoroughly clean, but the book Mrs Owl was looking for was still nowhere to be seen. But when she finally finds the book, hidden in a special place, Mrs Owl thinks there is something missing from the library. She decides to open up the library to the neighborhood and invites all of her friends to borrow and read the books. Mrs Owl's Messy Library is a charming, illustrated picture book by Eliana Hidalgo, about a wise and book-loving owl who has so many books, she doesn’t know what to do with them all. After she loses one of her favorite books in the mess, she decides a thorough clean is well overdue. After the library is clean, she realizes that the library could be enjoyed by others in her community and opens it up, so others can enjoy her beloved books. This is a sweet story with an adorable owl character. The book celebrates the joy of reading and sharing an enjoyable book with others. It will hopefully inspire a love of reading among young readers. The pastel colored, whimsical illustrations by Sara E, Steinberg are simply delightful. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: With sweet animal characters, themes of kindness and generosity, and the joy of discovering an enjoyable book, this is perfect for young readers who love animals and books alike. Purchase here

< Back Linda Soules So You Want To Be A Robot Builder (Robotics Engineer) So You Want To Be A Robot Builder (Robotics Engineer) by Linda Soules is an engaging and insightful book for young readers curious about the world of robotics. Aimed primarily at ages 10 to 14, but accessible to a broader audience, the book demystifies the field of robotics engineering by breaking down complex concepts into approachable, conversational language. Soules explores three core domains of robotics: mechanical engineering (the body), electrical engineering (the nervous system), and software (the brain). She emphasizes that a robotics engineer must master all three, as a robot is a holistic system where failure in any part can cause the whole to fail. This interdisciplinary approach is a recurring theme, highlighting the collaborative nature of real-world robotics projects. Soules also explores the challenges of building machines that sense, think, and act, discussing failure, iteration, and the detective work required to debug complex systems. The book also addresses the ethical responsibilities of robotics engineers, urging readers to consider not just what robots can do, but what they should do, and for whom. Practical advice is woven throughout, from recommending robotics kits and programming tools, to encouraging hands-on experimentation and participation in robotics clubs. The book also includes fun facts, profiles of famous robotics engineers, and a glossary of key terms, making it both informative and inspiring. The book is thoughtfully illustrated (with AI-assisted art, as the author transparently notes). It encourages curiosity and resilience, and places human values at the heart of technological progress. Whether a child is just beginning to tinker or seriously considering a future in robotics, this book is an excellent companion on their journey. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A standout resource for aspiring engineers, combining technical depth with real-world wisdom. Purchase here

< Back Hazem Nassar I Spy Amira is enjoying her favorite game, playing I-spy while swinging from a tree. She spies something green, something blue, something orange and something purple. She spies beauty all around her. But the peace and tranquillity is suddenly disrupted when a strange object hurtles through the sky. Amira struggles to open her eyes and cannot spy anything at all. I Spy is an illustrated picture book by Hazem Nassar about the harsh realities of war. Told from the perspective of a young girl named Amira, the book follows her journey to recovery and healing following a traumatic and life-threatening event. The text and illustrations convey a sense of despair and helplessness, and the imagery of Amira barely managing to open her eyes and almost letting go is deeply moving. The story transitions to a broader perspective, showing the impact of war on the wider community. The illustrations show journalists and medical professionals, highlighting the role of media and healthcare workers in documenting and addressing the consequences of conflict. The presence of diverse individuals, including those in wheelchairs and children, emphasizes the widespread and indiscriminate impact of war on people of all ages and backgrounds. The narrative also explores themes of resilience and hope. Despite the devastation, Amira observes the world around her, noting the colors and the return of people to their homeland. Overall, I Spy is a poignant reflection on the impact of war, particularly on children and communities. With simple and powerful illustrations and heart-wrenching storytelling, the book captures the fragility of life, the resilience of the human spirit, and the hope for a brighter future. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A poignant and deeply moving reflection on the impact of war on children and communities. Purchase here

< Back Rachel Goguen Sticks Paws & Pucks - The Championship Game Brothers, Owen and Liam, are coaches for the Boston Hockey Team. It is the most important game of the season as Boston face their opponents, the Wilds, in the championship game. Owen and Liam meet their fellow coaches and the players to prepare for the big game. The team head to the rink, and greet the fans who are hoping for a glimpse of their favorite player. Boston start well and lead the game at the end of the first quarter. The coaches gather the players in the locker room and provide motivation and encouragement for the second period. But during the second period, one of the Boston players, Billy, is injured when the puck hits his leg. Billy is forced to retire from the game, but the other players are not discouraged. The coaches and the players become even more determined to win the trophy for the team. Sticks Paws & Pucks - The Championship Game is a book for newly independent readers by author Rachel Goguen. The story follows the Boston Hockey Team coaches and players as they prepare for, and play in, the biggest game of the season – the championship game. But, when the game doesn’t quite go according to plan, the Boston players and coaches show teamwork, perseverance and determination to finish the game. Goguen masterfully captures the camaraderie of the team and the fast paced excitement of hockey, while weaving in themes of friendship and resilience. Young hockey players and other athletes will enjoy this fun and inspiring story. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A fun and action-packed story about a hockey team, determined to win the championship. A perfect pick for hockey fans. Purchase here

< Back Victoria Pannell and Thorir Sigfusson The Crow's Ring Book blurb... It’s about to be one crazy summer when thirteen-year-old Brandon Woodberry and his best friends meet a salty old sea captain on his beloved tugboat, the Maryanne. Curiosity and excitement take over when the kids discover the captain—a once undercover detective—has ties to a decades cold robbery that took place in their neighborhood, and the kids are determined to join forces to solve the case. Plus, they want to do whatever it takes to keep the sea captain’s tug—the town’s prideful landmark—at the marina before it’s hauled-off for scrap metal. Brandon's pet crow, Ralph, really stirs things up when a valuable ruby ring disappears… is Ralph a troublemaker or a hero? And who would have guessed that this summer would change young Brandon's life? It’s an all-out search for the truth and the curious bond to the sea. Purchase here

Abigale believes there is more to life than the dull, grey world she inhabits, by author Angie Bailey < Back Angie Bailey Believe Thirteen-year-old Abigale Johnson was born into a family of Never-Believers. A family who did not believe in Christmas, or birthdays, or fun, adventure or magic. A family whose life was dull and grey. But Abigale was a little different from the Johnson’s. She had dreams of a better life, and a life a little less grey. So Abigale spent most her time tyring to avoid her family, particularly her brothers who were the meanest of the mean, and teased and taunted Abigale every single day. One day, on a dreaded train trip to visit her despicable and very grey Aunt Violet, Abigale’s life changes for ever. After a knock on the head, Abigale discovers an alternate Fae world of wonder and magic, fae-folk, and Believers. Whizzing along on the Faedora magic train, Abigale meets lots of new friends and discovers Christmas and other wonderful celebrations. At thirteen, Abigale has her first ever birthday party, full of love and laughter. But not everyone on the magical train is happy with Abigale’s arrival, and they plot a sinister spell to extract her from the train during the next pink moon, putting her life in mortal danger. As Abigale’s new friends try to save her from doom, they soon discover Abigale has some important royal connections, and even her despicable Aunt Violet is not quite who she seems. Believe is an imaginative and enchanting novel. Well written by Angie Bailey and full of wonder, mystery and magic, the book has fabulous characters and a magnificent plot. This book will captivate both adults and younger readers. The book is the first part of a series, and we can’t wait to read the next instalment in Abigale’s magical journey. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘An enchanting novel, with fabulous characters and a magnificent plot. This book will captivate both adults and younger readers.’ A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Claudine C Wargel Hattie and Dirks Great Garden Surprise The second instalment in The Adventures of Hattie Mae Bramble series Twelve-year-old Hattie Mae lives on a farm in Central Illinois. She dreams of becoming a veterinarian and enjoys helping out with the farm animals, but is less keen on tending to the plants, especially in the hot Illinois summer. Halloween is approaching and Hattie is looking at the pumpkins in Mr Pinchly’s garden shop, with her little brother, Dirk. They notice how expensive the pumpkins are and think they could produce their own pumpkins on their farm, for a fraction of the cost. When they bump into Dirk’s friend who cannot afford to buy a pumpkin, the siblings have an idea to make sure every kid has a pumpkin for the next Halloween. Hattie and Dirk are carving pumpkins with the 4-H club in their garden. The session ends with a messy pumpkin fight, and squidgy pumpkin guts splattered all over the ground. In the spring, Hattie and Dirk plant their pumpkin seeds, and look after the seedlings carefully. But during the summer, their piglets escape and trample all over the pumpkin patch. Most of the pumpkin plants are destroyed, but in the fall Hattie and Dirk harvest a small number of pumpkins and sell them from their farm. But little do they know, following their pumpkin fight the previous year, there is a surprise hidden away in their back garden. Hattie and Dirk’s Great Garden Surprise is a delightful book for middle grade readers by Claudine C. Wargel, and the second book in The Adventures of Hattie Mae Bramble series. Set in the 1970s, on a Central Illinois farm, this is a charming story of a twelve-year-old girl, and her adventures with her little brother. The book beautifully captures the essence of rural life, during a time before cell phones, the internet, computer gaming and social media. It is a reminder of a simpler life when children could play in their natural environment without external distractions. But it is not all play, as Hattie and Dirk have to help out on the farm and complete their daily chores. Hattie and Dirk learn important lessons about responsibility and perseverance, and the rewards of hard work. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A beautiful story, delicately crafted to evoke a sense of nostalgia for simpler times. Purchase here