I’ve really enjoyed my reading month in November, and have read some fantastic middle-grade books. The stand-out books for me this month were Sweep: The Story of a Girl and her Monster, The Chimeseekers and Shipwreck Island. I’ve really enjoyed introducing my class to the Barrington Stoke Young Editor’s work, where they can offer feedback on an upcoming title, which they absolutely loved. I’d definitely recommend this to any other teachers. I also really enjoyed attending a book launch for the first time in what seems like forever. Strictly speaking, it was at the beginning of December, not November, but it was before I’ve written this post! It was so lovely to catch up with some wonderful book bloggers, and meet some authors I greatly admire. And, it was my birthday at the start of the month, so I’ve included a section on the books I was given.

Books I’ve read:

I’ve read 12 books this month, 7 physical copies, 1 e-books and 4 audiobooks. I think this has been my best reading month for a while.

NetGalley:

My Feedback Ratio is at 96%. I’m trying really hard not to request too many books, but I must admit that it’s very hard as there are some fantastic books on there! I did request The Mermaid in the Millpond, but I’ve read that quickly and submitted my review. I also just had to request A Storm of Sisters, the new Michelle Harrison, but then realised it is a sampler, so I’m just going to have to be patient and wait for the release in February.

Books sent by publishers/authors:

I have been lucky enough to have been sent these books by publishers and authors this month.

Books bought:

I have no control when it comes to buying books that I eventually intend to read and, despite knowing I was getting books for my birthday, I still managed to buy 12 books! From these, I have read Fledgling and The Chimeseekers, and I’ve almost finished The Very Merry Murder Club.

Birthday books!

I got 9 books for my birthday, all of which I might just have hinted at except for Mort which is one my husband read years ago, and wants to see if I’ll like!

That’s a wrap! How has your reading month been? Have you read any of these? Have you any of them on your TBR?

Nature’s Treasures is an absolutely stunning, fascinating hardback delight of a book which is guaranteed to entrance young and older nature lovers from 7+.  If ever a book deserves to be a cherished addition to any school or home bookshelf, it is this one.

It is just as beautiful on the outside as it is on the inside.  With a holofoil cover, gilded edges, and a breath-taking collection of interior photographs and illustrations enhancing the exuberant descriptions, this is a truly special book.

This wonderful collection of nature’s treasures begins with an author introduction to some of the intriguing objects to be found in the book.  It is divided into four chapters, each with an introductory page:  animals; plants, fungi and algae; minerals and rocks; and objects made by nature.  It has an easy-to-follow format with a contents page, glossary and index.

As an adult, I was completely absorbed in learning about these remarkable objects, so I can only imagine the wonder a child will take from learning about these.  Each of the items has a double-page in the book with gorgeous presentational features including:  amazing close-up photographs; detailed diagrams; gorgeous illustrations; an introduction to the object; and, fascinating facts telling the story of each treasure which clearly show the author’s respect for, and knowledge and love of, nature.  Through words, photos and illustrations, these extraordinary natural creations are placed in the hand of every curious child, taking them on an incredible journey of discovery through the wonder that is our natural and awe-inspiring world.

I love that there are many objects in this book that children can go on a nature spotting adventure to find, and see in their natural environment.  There are even some tips on responsible nature spotting. 

Nature’s Treasures is the perfect gift for curious children who are sure to spend many happy hours absorbed in this treasure trove of objects from the natural world which is presented in a stunning hardback edition.

Thank you to the Publisher and Abi Walton for a copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

I’m still listening to Sweep on Borrowbox. It is so good! It gives a really powerful insight into the life of young sweeps in Victorian London. Nan and her gollum, Charlie have such a gorgeous relationship. There have been some very poignant moments, and the cruelty shown by the orphan’s owners is heart-breaking; however, there are also some adults who want to help Nan and her friends. I’m also continuing to dip into The Very Merry Murder Club and have now read the first six stories. I’m enjoying the variety in the stories which have all been fun reads, especially Shoe-Dunnit and The Beast of Bedleywood.

I’ve read The Girl who Talked to Trees, a series of interwoven stories told by trees to a young girl trying to save the oak tree in her meadow. I’ve posted my review as part of the Blog Tour. I’ve also read The Mermaid in the Millpond which is being published by Barrington Stoke in January. It is a brilliant, dark and atmospheric story set in the Victorian era which I can highly recommend. I will be writing my review to post shortly.

I was lucky enough to be sent a copy of Libby and the Parisian Puzzle by the Publisher. It is one I’ve really been looking forward to so I intend to read it this weekend.

What are you reading? Have you read any of these?