Murder in Midwinter by Fleur Hitchcock

The bus stops for the millionth time and I look down at my phone for the millionth time. 

A little envelope appears in the corner of the screen., I click on it. 

It's from my sister, Zahra.

What you gonna wear to the party? 

Published by Nosy Crow in October 2016

Pages - 256

Summary

Sat on the top of a bus days before Christmas, Maya sees a couple arguing violently in the middle of a crowded Regent Street. They see her watching, she looks away, and the woman disappears. Maya goes to the police, who shrug and send her away. Then a body turns up… Now convinced she is a vital witness to a crime, the police send Maya into hiding in rural Wales. She resolves to get to the bottom of the mystery. Then the snow comes and no one can get out. But what if someone can still get in?

****

This is a perfect book for the season. Bring on the snow! Fleur Hitchcock has made me desperate for it, with this wintery, murder mystery. 

The book is aimed at the Middle Grade market, but it had an older feel to it. I would suggest that it would easily suit the younger YA crowd as well as Middle Grade. 

Maya is a fantastic main character. I think she is from mixed heritage, but it isn't really mentioned and I'm only guessing because of the names of the family members and the unusual white streak in her hair. She is courageous and bold, with a fantastic hobby. Maya likes to assemble and disassemble motor bikes. What an excellent role model she is.  She has a strong bond with her sister and will do anything to protect her. 

 I was thrown straight into the story from the first chapter and found myself quickly turning the page to find out what happened next. The plot takes us from the bustling streets  of London to the silent and lonely valleys of Wales. Maya doesn't really feel any safer there and can't wait to get back home. It doesn't help that her cousin, Ollie is so horrible to her. 

The plot keeps us on our toes through out the book and leaves you with an unexpected ending. Some of the final scenes had me gripping the edge of the seat. Especially all the scenes involving the horses. Any animal scene is guaranteed to break my heart. 

For those who love a fast paced, thrillingly tense Middle Grade read, this is the book for you. Definitely one for the Christmas stocking. 

Through The Mirror Door by Sarah Baker

"That was your last chance." 

I stared at the worn carpet till my eyes blurred.

"You brought this all on yourself, you know." 

I looked up. "So?" I mumbled. 

Published by Catnip Publishing in July 2016

Pages - 297

Summary

Since the accident, Angela has been alone. When she is invited on holiday with her cousins, it is her chance to be part of a family again if she promises to behave herself. But secrets lie in the walls of the crumbling French holiday home and the forbidden rooms draw Angela in. Soon night-time footsteps, flickering candlelight and shadows in windows lead her to a boy who needs her help. To save him Angela must discover the truth about what happened in the house all those years ago . . . and face the terrible secret of her own past.

*****
I've been really excited about this book since I first heard about it. Not only is the story intriguing, but it is also written by one of my lovely Book Bounder friends, Sarah Baker. I am so pleased to see another one of my friends published and well deserved too. I always worry about reviewing books by people I know, but I really shouldn't have worried. 
The story is set in France in an old, enchanting house. Angela has been whipped out of the children's home, where she has lived since her parent's passed away, by her Aunt Cece, who claims to want to give her a fresh start. 
Aunt Cece is far from nice to Angela and you can't help but wonder what her real motive is.  The rest of the family treat Angela rather cruelly too and Angela seeks solace in the forbidden part of the house, where she finds Julien, a kindred spirit. 
The friendship between Julien and Angela is beautiful.They quickly learn to trust each other and both grow in strength from their bond. 
The book is magical right from the start. Bringing back to life a classical style similar to Tom's Midnight Garden, you lose yourself in the detailed descriptions that beautifully enhance the reading experience. Yes, it is a ghost story, but it warms your heart rather than scares you witless. It makes you want to read all the classical tales from your childhood again. 
If you're a fan of Emma Carroll, then you really will enjoy this book too. Sarah is definitely a debut to keep watching out for. I can't wait for more adventures with Angela soon. 

Chasing Danger by Sara Grant

"Don't leave me here!" I shouted and waved wildly at the seaplane as it floated away with a roar and spray of salty water. 

I was standing on a twelve-by-twelve floating dock in the middle of the Indian Ocean.

Published by Scholastic in April 2016

Pages - 245

Summary

Fourteen year old Mackenzie is pretty sure that visiting her grandmother is going be the most boring holiday ever, even if they are going to a tropical island. But what Mackenzie doesn't know is that the island is about to come under attack. Soon Mackenzie will trying to save herself, her grandmother and the entire island in the most exciting (and most dangerous!) holiday of her life.

****

I think I might need a holiday after reading this book. There is so much explosive action in it, I'm exhausted. Chase barely has time to snorkel through the coral reef before the modern day pirates attack the beach. Thanks to the super training by her Dad, Chase is ready to deal with what happens next. Alongside Mackenzie's extensive computer knowledge, they pull off some Charlie's Angels style action. Every chapter, you think Chase and Mackenzie are going to be OK and then Wham! It goes horribly wrong. These two have serious girl power and I loved them both. Who needs boys when girls can rock all by themselves?

Sara Grant's comical timing is spot on. The first few chapters had me crying with laughter before I realised something dangerous was about to happen. You can tell the Sara Grant really enjoyed writing this novel. 

The island is to die for. I'm thinking the author had first hand experience of it, because the details had me desperate to grab my suitcase and passport.

Sara Grant has shown how easily she can jump from YA to MG to Early Chapter Books. She makes it look as easy as flicking your hair! I look forward to reading more about Chase's kick ass adventures in the near future. I might need to get some warmer clothes though because I've a feeling we are heading for colder climates in the next book. 

Never Evers by Tom Ellen and Lucy Ivison

'You can't stay in there for ever.'

I rolled my eyes dramatically even though she couldn't see me and climbed into the bath fully clothed. I lay down and crossed my arms like a snoozing vampire And then a bottle of Herbal Essences fell on my head.

Published by Chicken House in January 2016

Pages - 268

Summary

Kicked out of ballet academy and straight into a school ski trip, Mouse knows certain classmates can't wait to see her fall flat on her face. Meanwhile, Jack looks forward to danger and girls, but hasn't a clue about either. That's until French teen sensation Roland arrives in the resort - who Jack's a dead ringer for. When Roland persuades Jack to be his stand-in for a day, Jack, in disguise, declares his feelings for Mouse. But what happens when he's no longer a pop star - will it be music and magic on the slopes? 

****

Reviewed by Vivienne Dacosta

This book is utterly brilliant! Funny throughout and extremely entertaining.  I was laughing from the first paragraph and continued to giggle until the end.  I haven't read the duo's previous novel, Lobsters, but I can't wait to go back and read it.

Ellen and Ivison split the narrative, each bringing their character to life and breathing real life teenagerisms into them. I thought they both made a superb couple and it was lovely to see how the story would pan out. 

Most people remember those school trips when you were hopeful of a bit of romance and the main topic of conversation was who was going to get off with who. Ah, it really took me back. Set in the snowy, ski resort, it was brilliant to watch the characters excitement about their surroundings and the available opposite sex. 

Roland is most definitely a Bieber replica and he really added a lot of madcap humour to the story. I loved Connie and Keira, this zany duo showed us just how to be the best friend everyone always wanted. 

The storyline had a good dose of Shakespeare antics in it. Besides the Romeo and Juliet scenerio, we also had a touch of Much Ado About Nothing

The book isn't just a comedy though. Deeper down it reflects teenage angst awkwardness. These teenagers desperately want to  overcome the firsts we all have to endure. That first kiss - will they get it right? Or will the  whole school find out their kisses suck?

An excellent read for the older Middle Grade market, just about to jump feet first into the quagmires of secondary school. 

Debut 2016 - Day 3 - Sarah Baker

Welcome to Day 3 of the Debuts 2016 series and I am so pleased to welcome a good friend onto the blog. Sarah Baker. Sarah's debut Middle Grade novel, Through The Mirror Door, will be published by Catnip in May this year. As of yet, there is no cover reveal.

What did you do when you found you were going to be published?

I gave a little squeak and ran round the living room. Carefully though, because I was eight and half months pregnant at the time.

How have you kept yourself occupied in the run up to publication day?

I've been kept very busy looking after my baby boy and writing the first draft of my second book, a prequel to Through The Mirror Door, while he's napping. 

Who did you first tell about your book deal?

My sister, Rachael. She was the one who encouraged me to start writing all my stories down and she's been cheering me on ever since (even after reading countless drafts of said stories). 

 How will you spend publication day?

Ooh unless there's a party I don't know about yet, I shall probably be writing and/or entertaining a small boy. I expect I'll be chatting on Twitter though. Ooh, Twitter party anyone? I'll bring cake.

 What advice would you give to unagented and unpublished authors?

Keep going and expect to be in it for the long haul. Through the Mirror Door isn't the first book I ever wrote (that one will stay in the secret draw of best forgotten things). Ask for help too. One of the best things I ever did was go on the Book Bound Retreat. I learned so much, got my manuscript in good enough shape to send out to agents (and got one) and I made the very best writer friends who support, encourage and cheer each other on through the good and not so good times.

***

Thank you Sarah. I totally agree with Sarah about the BookBound retreat. If you get the opportunity to go on it this year, then definitely go. 

Stonebird by Mike Revell

“It’s there the night we go to visit Grandma.

Lying in the crypt at the back of the old church.

Waiting.”

Cover art by Frances Castle and Nicola Theobold

Published in 2015 by Quercus

297 pages in hardback

Summary from Mike Revell’s own website

When eleven-year-old Liam moves house to be closer to his grandma, he’s thrown into an unfamiliar place, with a family that seems to be falling apart.

Liam doesn’t remember what Grandma was like before she became ill with dementia. He only knows the witch-like old woman who snaps and snarls and eats her birthday cards. He desperately wants to make everything better, but he can’t.

Escaping the house one evening, Liam discovers an old stone gargoyle in a rundown church, and his life changes in impossible ways.

The gargoyle is alive. It moves unseen in the night, acting out Liam’s stories. And stories can be dangerous things…

But Liam’s grandma’s illness is getting worse, his mum isn’t coping, and his sister is skipping school.

What if the gargoyle is the only thing that can save Liam’s family?

******

Reviewed by K. M. Lockwood

I do rather have a passion for gargoyles, so I was immediately attracted to this lovely cover. I have rarely seen artwork more suited to the book inside than this.  (You can see how it evolved on Frances Castle’s blog.) The story is told by Liam, the boy with the dog in the picture, and that splendid gargoyle does indeed play a huge part.

Mike Revell has recreated a modern world that won’t date in months, in the way that David Almond did in ‘Skellig’. ‘Stonebird’ has much of that same meeting of magic with a family drama. It is scary at times, and deals with dark subjects like bullying and dementia. But the accessible writing in this compassionate tale makes it suitable for a wide age-range. I would include adults in that, especially anyone going through a similar situation.

Although intended for a younger readership, the importance of creativity through language in it also made me think of Sarah Crossan’s ‘Apple & Rain’.  There are flashes of the poetic but they don’t weight the story down. It leaves you with a sense of hope in spite of bewildering changes: something of the warmth of Frank Cottrell Boyce, but with a voice of its own. An impressive debut.

The D'Evil Diaries by Tatum Flynn

High above the cavernous glass roof of The Poison Gardens, the crimson skies of Pandemonium swirled lazily over the city. Inside the greenhouse, the spiked black branches of the Nemesis Tree  swooped and darted like kraken tentacles searching for ships. The sap oozing from the Tree's trunk was bright yellow and smelled uncannily of mouldy trainers. Any creature unlucky enough to get too close would be swept up before being slowly crushed to death. 

Published by  Orchard Books in April 2015

Pages - 273

Illustrations by Dave Shepherd

Summary 

Twelve-year-old Jinx is hopeless at being evil. Which is a bit of a problem when you're Lucifer's youngest son. But when Jinx runs away from Pandemonium, the walled city he's lived in all his life, he bumps into dead girl Tommy - who's been sent to Hell for accidentally feeding her nasty uncle to a circus lion - and unearths a conspiracy that could up-end the entire underworld. 

Cue shenanigans involving carnivorous carousel horses, death-trap-riddled libraries and hungry quicksand. Now the fate of the realm rests in the hands of its most unlikely demon and a girl who shouldn’t be in Hell at all... 

*****

I'm actually not sure what I am most envious of - Tatum Flynn's incredible imagination or her hilarious sense of humour. I found myself reading this book, constantly thinking, why can't I be as talented at this author? 

I'd imagine you've guessed by now that I really enjoyed this book. The world building was astounding. I can actually picture Hell in my mind and I hope if I  do something really bad and have to spend eternity there, it  will be just like the author imagined. Pandemonium felt like a really cool, yet evil place to hang out in.  I love all the distinctive areas within Hell, each with their own horror to unveil.

I had a fit of the giggles constantly while reading  this story.  Jinx, Lucifer's youngest son, is really funny. I loved the scene where he turned Count Dracula into a healthy, fun loving guy, who now works for the Milk Marketing Board! This was absolutely priceless. The rest of the characters were entertaining and enigmatic. I found myself really liking Lucifer! And 'Lucifer' and 'like' really aren't two words that you would put in the same sentence.  The relationship between Tommy and Jinx was really sweet, in a brotherly sister kind of way. I am so pleased  how Tommy's future turns out by the end of the book.

If I was to compare this to anything, it would be to the film, Little Nicky with Adam Sandler. Jinx has that same misfit quality to him. 

The plot of the story is very good, although I guessed quite early on, who was trying to break down the wall between Heaven and Hell. However, this didn't spoil my enjoyment of the story.

This book is the first in a series and I know it will be fabulous to return to Hell later in the year to see what these two mischievous  kids get up to. I really hope at some point we get to meet Persephone, Jinx's mum, as she was mentioned quite a lot in this book.

This is a really great debut novel as well as a good read for the Middle Grade market. I really think this book will be loved by both girls and boys. If David Walliams wrote paranormal, this is the style of book he would write. 

Jessica’s Ghost by Andrew Norriss

 

Francis needed to be alone.

He needed to be alone so that he could think, which was why, despite the weather, he carried his bag and his lunch to a bench on the far side o f the playing field.

Published by David Fickling Books in March 2015

Pages - 250

Francis has never had a friend like Jessica before. She's the first person he's ever met who can make him feel completely himself. Jessica has never had a friend like Francis before. Not just because he's someone to laugh with every day - but because he's the first person who has ever been able to see her ...

*****

This is one of those books, that you can tell that every word written has been carefully selected. There isn’t any extra waffle, just a beautifully crafted tale. Jessica’s Ghost deals with depression in children and it highlights the reasons it occurs and how it affects people. It’s like a dark cloud that descends and can either be lifted briefly or rains heavily for a very long time.  Each child in the story had thoughts about killing themselves. They felt the situations in their lives were so out of control, they could no longer deal with it. They wanted out of this life. It hurts to read that kids feel this way, but it isn’t uncommon at all.

Kids constantly struggle to fit in. They want to be liked by everyone and be considered the same. What this book shows you, is that it is alright to be different. The world would be a very boring place, if we were all the same. This story encourages children to accept who they are and learn to love themselves. The kids in this tale were soon left alone when they became confident and started believing in themselves. Life can change in a matter of minutes; what appears to be the worst thing ever can alter to bring you hope, happiness and joy.

This story also shows that talking to someone helps. If kids have worries, it is better to share it with someone than to keep it bottled up. Worries just build and build if you let them, until they are bursting out of you. As my grandmother used to say, ‘a worry shared is a worry halved’.

I loved this book completely. I loved all the characters and how they stood out from the crowd. They were each unique and it was wonderful to watch them learn to live with their uniqueness. They all blossomed as the story progressed.

This really is a beautiful book that deserves to be read by every child. I really hope when it is comes around to picking books for the 2015 Middle Grade  awards, that this book appears on every list. An  ideal gift  for any child you know that worries or frets over life.  A must-have  in every school library.

Murder Most Unladylike by Robin Stevens

This is the first murder that Wells and Wong Detective Society has ever investigated, so it is a good thing Daisy bought me a new casebook. The last one was finished after we solved The Case of Lavinia’s Missing Tie. The solution to that, of course was that Clementine stole it in revenge for Lavinia punching her in the stomach during lacrosse, which was Lavinia’s revenge for Clementine telling everyone Lavinia came from a broken home. I suspect that the solution to this new case may be more complex.

Also known as ‘Murder is Bad Manners’ in the US

Published June 2014 by Corgi

UK cover design by Nina Tara

316 pages in paperback

Summary from Robin Stevens’ own website: http://robin-stevens.co.uk/

When Daisy Wells and Hazel Wong set up their very own deadly secret detective agency at Deepdean School for Girls, they struggle to find any truly exciting mysteries to investigate. (Unless you count the case of Lavinia’s missing tie. Which they don’t, really.)

But then Hazel discovers the Science Mistress, Miss Bell, lying dead in the Gym. She thinks it must all have been a terrible accident - but when she and Daisy return five minutes later, the body has disappeared. Now the girls know a murder must have taken place . . . and there’s more than one person at Deepdean with a motive.

Now Hazel and Daisy not only have a murder to solve: they have to prove a murder happened in the first place. Determined to get to the bottom of the crime before the killer strikes again (and before the police can get there first, naturally), Hazel and Daisy must hunt for evidence, spy on their suspects and use all the cunning, scheming and intuition they can muster. But will they succeed? And can their friendship stand the test?

Reviewed by K. M. Lockwood

I should first point out that I received this book by accident. I retweeted the competition to support a fellow writer - and then blow me, but I won it. It would not normally be the sort of thing I’d go for. The jolly blue cover gives you the feel of it - I thought well, it looks fun.

So I read it fully expecting an Agatha Christie crossed with an Enid Blyton - which isn’t too far off. It has both the page turning attraction and the clever plotting of those two, together with oodles of period charm. I thought ‘Daisy’s Guide to Deepdean’ at the end was a delight and very handy. There’s a plan and a list of characters too.

But - it’s better than that. You can read it happily enough as a cosy crime for younger readers - yet there’s rather more to it. Robin Stevens has gone beyond nostalgia to cover both difficult school relationships most readers will recognise, and racism in a subtle yet effective way. She also did not shy away from recognising the impact of such a crime as murder. I was not expecting those aspects at all - very impressed. I have ‘Arsenic for Tea’ ready to read soon.

I would highly recommend ‘Murder Most Unladylike’ for any fairly fluent reader who likes mysteries and boarding school stories with a sense of fun, but also with intelligence and heart. A kind of Sherlock Holmes for schoolchildren. It would be great for a book club to discuss! 

Secret Serendipity Seven with Harriet Whitehorn

Today on the blog, we have the rather talented MG author, Harriet Whitehorn, who is happy to reveal seven secrets.  Harriet’s second book, Violet and the Hidden Treasure has just been published by Simon and Schuster.

I love a secret but I am also incredibly bad at keeping them, so this is perfect for me.

1)   I would like to give the impression of being bold and fearless like Violet but I am in fact much more like Rose.  Despite being a grown up, I still absolutely hate being told off, and go to great lengths to avoid it.  Even my friends talking in the cinema makes me nervous in case anyone tells us to be quiet.

2)   In the first Violet book, there was originally a whole sub-plot about the cats and a love triangle between them, which, I think sensibly, got taken out and just portrayed in the drawings.  But the next book does feature a very bad-tempered cockatoo, which brings me onto …

3)  I always wanted a parrot as a child, but had to make do with a very dysfunctional rescue cat, who would randomly bite me and often refused to come out from under my parents bed for days on end.

4)  Violet was my secret as I hardly told anyone that I was writing a book until my publishing deal was done.

5)   It’s a bit like choosing your favourite child (which obviously I don’t have) but I would have to admit that my favourite character in the Violet books is PC Green.  And I can’t really tell you why, he just is.

6)   In the second book, Violet and the Hidden Treasure, I introduce all the characters by telling you their favourite possession. And mine is my father’s old fountain pen that I write with. 

7)   Violet travels a little in The Hidden Treasure and a lot in the third book, Violet and the Smugglers, and I have aspirations for her to go to all sorts of places - New York, Hawaii, Japan…

Violet and the Hidden Treasure by Harriet Whitehorn.

To check out my review of Violet and the Hidden Treasure, please click here.

To find out more about Harriet Whitehorn:

Website

Nightbird by Alice Hoffman

 

You can’t believe everything you hear, not even in Sidwell, Massachusetts, where every person is said to tell the truth and the apples are so sweet people come from as far as New York City during the apple festival. There are rumours that a mysterious creature lives in town. Some people insist it’s a bird bigger than an eagle; others say it’s a dragon, or an oversized bat that resembles a person.

Published by Simon and Schuster in March 2015

Pages - 208

Twig lives in Sidwell, where people whisper that fairy tales are real. After all, her town is rumoured to hide a monster. And two hundred years ago, a witch placed a curse on Twig’s family that was meant to last forever. But this summer, everything will change when the red moon rises. It’s time to break the spell.

*****

I love the thought of an Alice Hoffman book, even if I don’t always enjoy the actual product. My love for Alice Hoffman began back in the days of Practical Magic, which is one of my favourite films/ books EVER. So I always approach each Alice Hoffman book nervously yet hopeful. Nightbird didn’t disappoint me at all. In fact, I thought it was every bit as magical as Practical Magic.

This is the author’s first book for Middle Grader readers and I was completely bowled over by the warmth and hopefulness that spills off the page. I felt like I was transported to Sidwell and could easily walk along the street, breathing in the scents that wafted from the apple trees and the freshly baked apple pies.

Twig is adorable. She may be young but she is extremely mature for her age. She has carried a big secret for the whole of her life. The friendships she makes have a Anne of Green Gables feel to them, which I loved.

The story has lots of elements to it that reminded me of Practical Magical, which is probably one of the reasons I enjoyed it so much. Magical realism is one of my favourite genres, purely because there is always the hope that elements of the story might actually ring true.

This book would appeal to any child who hovers between reality and fantasy. Even though this book is published for Middle Grade readers, I’m certain adults would enjoy it too. All you need to do,  is to believe in a little magic…

Has Anyone Seen Jessica Jenkins? by Liz Kessler

It was during a Friday afternoon double geography lesson that I first discovered I had superhuman powers.

Published by Orion Children’s Books in August 2014

Pages - 256

Summary

Jessica Jenkins is missing...
Jessica Jenkins has always thought she was a perfectly ordinary girl, until the day that part of her arm vanishes in the middle of a Geography lesson! Her best friend Izzy is determined to help Jessica realise what a great opportunity the power to turn invisible could be, but where has her new ability come from? Does this mean she's a superhero? And, when her friends are threatened, can Jessica use her superpower to help?

*****
I love the premise of this book. Who wouldn’t want the power of invisibility? Just imagine the trouble you could cause if you could make your body disappear with just a thought.  What a fabulous idea and one that seems rare within the Middle Grade market.

I enjoyed the pacing of the story and I was quick to follow Jessica as she came to terms with all the changes and revelations occurring around her. Jessica’s friends made excellent secondary characters as they each came to terms with their own problems while learning to deal with their new situation.

I know some reviewers found the connection between the super powers and gem stones difficult to believe, but personally I thought it was a brilliant idea. I could see the scientific potential and how this could actually happen.  Gem stones have always fascinated me, especially with each one having it’s own meaning and purpose in connection with our bodies. So it seemed perfectly feasible to me, that they could be used for a wider purpose.

I think a little shout out is needed to the illustrator, Emily Twomey , as the illustrations at the start of each chapter are simply gorgeous and not forgetting the awesome cover.

I do have one little niggle with the book. I wasn’t completely sure I agreed with the way the antagonist was dealt with in the story. However, I do feel that the way the book ended, the plot left it open for perhaps a future book in the series.

At times I wasn’t always sure of which age group the book was aimed at. It had a strong, young, Middle Grade feel to it, however these kids were all about sorting the problems out themselves without adult intervention, which tends to stray into the YA genre. On reflection, I think this book would  definitely suit the younger end of the  Middle Grade bracket and I think anyone who loved Liz Kessler’s last two standalone books will really enjoy this one too. An enjoyable read with a twist of Heroes in it for the younger market.

Tiger Moth by Suzi Moore

I’m not like you. I’m not like everyone else. I wasn’t born. I was chosen.

Published by Simon and Schuster in August 2014

Pages - 239

Summary

Ever since she was adopted by her parents, Culver Manor, with its hidden rooms and overgrown garden has been the one place Alice feels safe, the one place she can call home. Everything's perfect. Until it isn't. When she finds out her Mum is going to have a baby, Alice's world turns upside down. Will they love their real baby more than her? Why isn't she enough for them an...more Ever since she was adopted by her parents, Culver Manor, with its hidden rooms and overgrown garden has been the one place Alice feels safe, the one place she can call home. Everything's perfect. Until it isn't. When she finds out her Mum is going to have a baby, Alice's world turns upside down. Will they love their real baby more than her? Why isn't she enough for them anymore? Alice doesn't know what to say, so she doesn't speak at all. She stays silent that day and the day after that, until six months have passed without her saying one single word.
Zack has everything he could want. His dad's a film stuntman, he lives in the best house on the best street and is Mr Popular at school. Everything's perfect. Until it isn't. Zack's dad is killed on set and he and his mum are forced to sell their house and move to a tiny cottage by the sea. Ripped from the life he once knew, Zack is angry at the world and looking for trouble. Then he meets Alice, the girl who doesn't speak, and together they begin to realise that sometimes it's when life seems less than perfect that the most magical things can happen.

****

I can’t help it, but I truly love the way Suzi Moore writes. She has such a warmth to her voice it draws you in, hands you a blanket and allows you to dream of your childhood.  I felt like I stepped back in time to my own childhood.

Set in Devon, the story is told from dual perspectives. First we meet Alice, who we discover from the start is adopted and struggling to come to terms with the impending changes to her family. When her parents tell her they are having their very own child, Alice quickly feels unstable  and no longer can see how she will fit within her own family. Her anger hits you instantly as selective muteness takes over.

When Zack appears in the book, you know straight away that he is struggling to come to terms with the death of his father. The life he has always known is instantly erased from existence and he is thrust unwillingly back into his mother’s past.  Both characters instantly draw out your empathy as a reader, as you desperately want everything to be right again for them. They are both suffering in their own way until they meet each other; their new found friendship helps to ease the pain that surrounds them on a daily basis.

The setting for the book is simply gorgeous. It reminded me of Clovelly in Devon; the kind of British sea side village I would love to live in. The descriptions of the village and Culver Manor, where Alice lived, had me yearning to visit Devon over  the summer holidays. It was lovely to be able to imagine myself sitting on the private beach, watching the seals in the distance. I swear I could almost hear the waves crashing against the shore.

There is a secret about Culver Manor, that hovers gently over the book. You know a past exists, but you can’t quite put your finger on it, until the secrets are revealed at the end.

I had a couple of tiny niggles with the book. One was that the character, George, who appeared quite dominant in the end of the book, did not appear in the beginning. I would have loved to have seen his presence a little earlier, as he was a colourful and eccentric Miss Daisy style character. My second niggle was the epilogue, where I felt there were elements to it that I wasn’t prepared for.

On the whole I really enjoyed this book. It had whispers of mystery circling  the growing pains of two beautiful, innocent souls trying to float in the turbulent sea of change. I honestly can’t wait to see what Suzi Moore writes next.

If your child is looking for a summer read to accompany them on the long journey to your holiday destination, then I can’t think of a better book than this to read.

Close To The Wind by Jon Walter

The boy and the old man arrived at the port at night.

There had been cloud in the sky but now the moon shone brightly and they stood in the shadow cast by a row of terraced cottages that lined a cobbled street, polished through the years by wheels and feet and the hooves of horses.

The boy held the old man’s hand.

Published by David Fickling Books in July  2014

Pages - 298

Malik's mother has been missing for days, his home has become unrecognisable, and his grandfather is insisting that they leave on the next and final ship: The Samaritan. This journey will take them to a country which promises safety and a new life. The only problem is, they don't have a ticket, and people are stopping at nothing to get a place on board. Luckily Papa has a secret that could change everything. But who can they trust to help them?

******

One of the things that I liked most about this book was the fact that it was difficult to pinpoint a time or place in which the events took place. I knew that Malik was fleeing from a war torn country and I had suspicions that the story was set during during World War 2, but this information was never disclosed, giving the book a timeless feel to it. It really could have been set at any time as nothing felt like it dated it.This alone shows the skills of a clever author.

Nothing overly dramatic really happens in this book and yet, you are sucked into the story straightaway. The author’s voice captures your imagination and writes in such a detailed manner, that you find it difficult to pull yourself away from the book. You desperately want Malik to be able to return to his home and be with his mother again.

If I was to pinpoint any themes in this book, I think they would be loyalty and survival. Malik is willing to give away one of his most treasured positions to right the wrong that was committed against his grandfather. Oksar and Stephan’s loyalty, showed that they would rather risk losing the opportunity of living with a new family than losing each other. From a survival perspective, Malik’s grandfather is willing to risk his own life in order to spare his grandson from the unknown and unstable future of his country.

There were scenes in the book that worried me. I was convinced for a huge part of the story that I would have to go through that whole Manchee scenario again that I struggled with in The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness. There were tense moments where Malik had to show true courage and maturity for such a young child. The atmosphere on the ship was so well written, I could feel how stifling conditions must have been.

I do have one niggle about the book. The ending seemed to go on longer than necessary for me. Once Malik was off the boat, I expected perhaps another incident to occur, only it didn’t. So I find myself pondering whether the majority of Part Three was actually necessary.

However, this did not affect my overall enjoyment of the book. The descriptive language and the young hero made this book a beautiful read.

One Wish by Michelle Harrison

In a busy side street of London, a hooded figure let itself into a small shop. Once inside, the person locked the door and checked that the CLOSED sign was displayed, then threw back the hood. A thin-faced, bespectacled man with grey hair, he appeared ordinary at first glance. Yet look a little closer and the tips of two pointed ears were visible beneath his hair - to those who were able to see such things at least.

Published by Simon and Schuster in May 2014

Pages - 346

The Spinney Wicket Wishing Tree can grant your heart’s desire - just wish out loud, or hang a message from its branches. It sounds as though the Wishing Tree is just a sweet old tradition, but Tanya is only too aware how real its magic could be.
Tanya can see fairies, and would love to meet someone else can see them too. When she meets Ratty and his cheeky fairy, Turpin, it seems at last she’s found them. But Ratty has a secret, and a dangerous enemy who'll stop at nothing to get to him.
Tanya must use her one wish to save her new friend - but wishes should be used wisely . . .

******

When it comes to recommending books about fae, Michelle Harrison is  always  one of the first authors I  recommend. The author writes about fairies in such a way, that I am  instantly transported back to my childhood days, reading Enid Blyton books. However, unlike the fairies created by Enid Blyton, the ones in Michelle’s books are darker, nastier and like to play to tricks on you without considering the consequences.

This book is a prequel to the author’s Thirteen Treasures trilogy, where we follow Tanya on holiday with her mum, who is recovering from the break up of her marriage. Whilst away, Tanya stumbles upon the Wishing Tree, which glistens magically throughout the book. The plot continually returns to it, leaving you with a desperate wish to find your own wishing tree to use.

Tanya makes some new friends while at the tree. Well to be honest, it doesn’t really start out as friendship and Turpin takes quite some time to warm to Tanya. However with Ratty in danger, Tanya shows just how good a friend she can be.

Tanya encounters some interesting people in her quest. These characters are unique and colourful, yet damn right frightening at times. Through out the book, I found myself holding my breath as I waited for Tanya to escape from another difficult situation. As the story progresses, Tanya comes to fully understand what selfishness really means and realises that what she wants isn’t always for the best.

The plot builds up to a worrying finale, where you hope to God, they all get out alive. There are moments when you will feel that all is lost, until the book reaches a climatic ending.

I adore the fairies that live in Michelle’s world and I am so pleased she returned to writing about them. I really hope there might be a few more in the pipe line. This boo is  a glittery return into a world of magic, trickery and glamour - but be warned, you may just miss it - if you don’t have the ability to see fae…

A Boy Called Hope by Lara Williamson

I'm Dan Hope and deep inside my head I keep a list of things I want to come true.
For example, I want my sister, Ninja Grace, to go to university at the North Pole and only come back once a year.
I want to help Sherlock Holmes solve his most daring mystery yet. And if it could be a zombie mystery, all the more exciting.
I want to be the first eleven-year-old to land on the moon.I want my dog to stop eating the planets and throwing them up on the carpet.
And finally, the biggest dream of all, I want my dad to love me.

Published by Usborne in March 2013

Pages - 282

Summary

This is a book about a boy, Dan Hope. A story about his dreams and wishes, his fears and worries, and his search for hope.

*******

I was a  little worried  about reading this book as I know Lara quite well. Though why I should have worried, I don’t know. If I didn’t know better, I’d say that Lara was really an eleven year old boy, because she captured his voice so well.

I didn’t realise what a sense of humour Lara had. As the  witty comments from Dan just rolled out of this book, constantly making me giggle. Not to mention the flow of sarcasm from his sister, Ninja Grace. This is one of those books that has you alternating between laughing and crying as you go through a rollercoaster of emotions with Dan as he does everything he can to make his Dad notice him.  The need for his father, really pulls at your heart strings.

The characters are flamboyant and quirky at the same time. Who would not fall in love with Jo, Dan’s best friend, who has an unusual obsession with the Saints? Pure genius! Not to mention,huggy bear, Big Dave.

I adored this book from beginning to end and found myself completely wrapped up in Dan’s life. It was like watching a children’s version of Stella - as you quickly fall in love with this unusual yet normal family and laugh and cry alongside them as events unfold.

The book sucks you into the story with such ease, that before you know you have read half the book.  A funny, heart-warming yet poignant tale of always believing and never giving up hope. It would definitely appeal to fans of Wonder By RJ Palacio. If anything, this tale shows that sometimes, the things you go in search of, are right beside you all along.

A breath taking new voice for the Middle Grade contemporary market!

Forgive My Fins by Tera Lynn Childs

Pages - 333

Published by Templar Publishing in July 2011

Water calms me. It's like chocolate or hot tea or dulce de leche ice cream. After a rotten day, I lock the bathroom door, fill Aunt Rachel's old-timey bath with steaming water and bath salts, and then sink into a world where my problems all melt away. 

Goodreads Summary

Unrequited love is hard enough when you're a normal teenage girl, but for Lily Sanderson, there's no such thing as a simple crush.

Lily has a secret, and it's not her huge crush on gorgeous swimming god Brody Bennett, who makes her heart beat flipper-fast. Lily's mermaid identity is a secret that can't get out, since she's not just any mermaid--she's a Thalassinian princess. When she discovered three years ago that her mother was actually a human, Lily finally realised why she didn't feel quite at home in Thalassinia, and she's been going to Seaview High ever since. Living on land has its problems--like her obnoxious biker-boy neighbour, Quince Fletcher--but it has that one major perk: Brody. The problem is, mermaids aren't really the casual dating type--when they bond, it's for life.

When Lily's attempt to win Brody's love leads to a tsunami-sized case of mistaken identity, she finds out, quick as a tailfin flick, that happily ever after never sails quite as smoothly as you planned.

********

This was a delightfully cute book that warmed my heart. At  the beginning I was convinced that if was younger than YA as it seemed so innocent in nature, but as the book progressed it filled it's YA shoes. Although I am still convinced that the tweenie age bracket will be yearning for this one too. 

This is one of the best mermaid books I have read so far within the mermaid genre, and believe me, lately there have been a lot! There are no added extras, you have an idea where the plot is going, and you're happy to  swim along for the ride. 

From the beginning I loved Quince. As much as the author tried to put us off him, I could see beneath his annoying surface and see he was a keeper! Lily took so long to see the truth, I found at times I wanted to shake her so that she could see what a wondrous creature stood before her. She is just a little bit self centred and just can't see how amazing Quince is, when everyone around her can.  I didn't like Brody at all, but I have never been fond of Golden Boys! 

I loved the setting of Thalassina - it was AMAZING! It sounded like an awesome place to visit, the way the author described it, made it easy to imagine in my head. 

The epilogue was a bit of shocker. I honestly didn't expect that to happen. And if I'm honest, the ending surprised me too. I came away thinking that Tera Lynn Childs might be a tricksy character in real life.  

If you are looking for a mermaid YA book, then this one would definitely be at the top of my list to recommend. 

The 13th Horseman by Barry Hutchison

Pages - 348
Published in March by HarperCollins Children's Books

The vast, lonely wastelands of oblivion  wastelands of oblivion stretch out in all directions, infinite in their scale and in their emptiness. Darkness lies heavy over this most desolate of plains, like a burial shroud on a long-forgotten corpse. 


In a darkly funny, action-packed adventure, fourteen year old Drake is surprised to discover the Horsemen of the Apocalypse hanging out in his garden shed. He’s even more surprised when they ask him to join them. The team is missing a Horseman, having gone through several Deaths, and they think Drake is the boy for the job. 

***********

Doesn't that first paragraph sound rather dark and foreboding? I was worried this book was going to be a little scary but as you continue to read you realise exactly why the author has written the passage so darkly. His imagery in the prologue was beautifully written and really stood out for me.

The rest of the book had me practically wetting myself. Don't be fooled by the prologue, it has a purpose; this book is the funniest book I have read in ages. The story is extremely surreal yet unbelievably realistic. Drake, your typical teenage boy has been recruited as the 13th Horseman of the Apocalypse after the last Death, decided to hang up his cloak and scythe. Alongside War, Pestilence and Famine, he must ride his horse across the sky to signal the beginning of the end of the world. Not really a laughing matter; but the author soon put pay to that. 

Drake's new mythical sidekicks are just hilarious. Each one unique and extremely lovable,despite all their flaws.  Pestilence with his unusual rashes and weird inflammations will have you reaching for a face mask. My favourite character of the book had to be War. I really want to meet him! One minute they are planning Armageddon, the next they are playing Buckaroo. Priceless!

I loved this book so much. I am still chuckling over the funny sketches in it a week after reading it. There is a scene in the book where Drake has to try and whistle for his horse. I nearly had an asthma attack reading it, I was laughing that much. 

This book is pure genius, it really is. I recommend everyone reading it. Definitely one for reluctant readers as you can easily finish it in a day.  I was really sad to finish this book, as I found myself becoming quite attached to the horsemen. As of yet there is no sequel and I am hoping that Harper Collins decide to make a series out of it. 

An  extremely entertaining rib tickler. Bring on the next Apocalypse!

The Witch of Turlingham Academy by Ellie Boswell

Pages - 212
Published by Atom Books in March  2012

Sophie peered round the stone pillar. She beckoned to the tall, curly-haired boy who was trying, not very successfully, to conceal himself behind the opposite pillar. 
'Come on, Callum!' she hissed. She ducked out from her hiding place and ran tiptoe down the corridor, dodging from sunlight to shadow as she passed the tall windows. Behind her, she heard a clatter and glanced round to see Callum's arm's fly out as he stumbled. 


It's not easy being the only day girl at Turlingham Academy: Sophie misses out on all the midnight feasts and late night gossip. And when new girl Katy turns up it feels like she's bewitching all of Sophie's friends! Katy's no witch, but there is a witch at Turlingham. Katy comes from a long line of witch hunters whose job is to stop evil magic. Sophie is going to help her - anything to get Katy out of her life and get things back to normal. But what she discovers means nothing will ever be normal again! 

***********

Oh how I adored this book! 

Now you know I am always attracted to a good witch book, so my curiosity got the better of me with this one and I knew I had to read it. I was not disappointed. 

The Witch of Turlingham is a new venture for ATOM as it is the first one they have launched in their new strand of publishing for the 8 to 12 year old market. They wanted to provide books for the tweens who were desperate to get their hands on the Twilight books but were too young to read them and I think they got it just right. 

From what I can gather, ATOM will be bringing a new witchy adventure in this series out every three months to keep the series exciting and the audience thrilled.  I think there will be a long procession of tweenies banging on the doors of Atom Towers in desperation for the next book. 

Sophie the main character, is sassy and stylish and rolling in confidence, depicting a lot of tweens I happen to know! The author really knows her target audience and I personally fell in love with Sophie from Chapter One.  The book is set in a boarding school, yet don't be expecting to find a  slice of hidden Enid Blyton in there, this school is a lot more modern; the author just brought boarding schools into the present day. 

The writing is sharp and concise, with lots of dry humour hidden within. The plot keeps you reading as you try to work out whether Sophie is in danger or not. The friendship between Sophie and Katy had a very interesting twist and I can't wait to see how that progresses. 

This is a  excellent read, not too long, so you can easily tempt the reluctant girl readers with it. I honestly can't wait for the next one. 

Well done Ellie Boswell and Atom for launching a fabulous new series for the young wannabes!