As we love books so much, I am finally dusting off the laptop and sharing again, both on here and social media and what a great way to kick things off again with some book recommendations!
I have popped in a couple of younger kids books, because quite frankly I can’t resist my favourites, but I also asked the kids for a few of theirs, so here we go.
The Jolly Postman or Other Peoples Letters, by Janet & Allan Ahlberg
A classic from my childhood and to be honest maybe one that hasn’t aged well as we all move from classic written letters to our speedier, cheaper digital communications. But this book delights with pockets filled with letters and cards the jolly postman delivers to all the fairy tale characters. Beautifully illustrated and interactive, a must for younger kids.
The Very Cranky Bear, by Nick Bland
The antics of the quirky quartet, Moose, Lion, Zebra and Sheep as they deliberate how to cheer up the cranky bear, is humourous, lyrical and delightful with the shy sheep coming to the rescue. One of many books featuring these characters, this is our favourite.
Fireborn, Twelve and the Frozen Forest & Fireborn, Phoenix and the Frost Palace, by Aisling Fowler
Recommended for 8-12 year olds, I must admit I read the first book and really enjoyed it. There was plenty of action, suspense and a plot twist or two to make this an engaging read. Story wise, think Harry Potter and Lord of the Rings combined into a journey of discovery.
The 3rd book of the series is out later this year.
Skandar and the Unicorn Thief & Skandar and the Phantom Rider, by A. F. Steadman
In the words of my 10 year old, “4 stars out of 5, it’s a long book and really good if you like magical adventure stories, with plenty of twists and turns on a journey to save the islands from getting destroyed.”
The third book, Skandar and the Chaos Trials, is being released next month.
The Shakespeare Stories, by Andrew Matthews & Tony Ross
What a great way to introduce children to Shakespeare, 16 of the best-loved plays re-told in a shorter story format. My daughter read them all and I felt it gave her a positive introduction to Shakespeare, whom she will become far more acquainted with during her secondary schooling. We actually got this as a birthday present and I think it’s a great gift idea.
Be Positive, by Dr Sharie Coombes & Be Confident, Be You a Teenage Guide, by Becky Goddard-Hill
I just wanted to share these as I am all for kids developing their inner confidence and just taking time to think about themselves for a moment. Be Positive is aimed at younger children, I’d say from 7+, it’s a fun-filled, creative approach with opportunities to colour in, doodle and it generally offers a gentle way to raise and address the subject matters.
Be Confident, as per the title is a teenage guide full of ideas and practical activities to self question and guide you. I love the layout, it’s simple, easy to read and they back up much of the information with a bit of science – nice and logical for the potentially chaotic tween/teen brain!
Well that’s our favourites for now, enjoy world book day!
(no affiliates here, just our own likes)