I am a primary school teacher who is a voracious reader. I love reading children's books, talking to them about books, engaging them in reading for pleasure and recommending books to them.
Well October went past in a whirlwind of work, sickness and the teacher tiredness that comes with a long half-term BUT half-term has been so wonderful – it’s actually been a proper break where I’ve felt completely relaxed and revived, ready for next half-term.
Books I’ve read:
I’ve read 15 books this month – thanks to half-term! My highlights were The Strange Disappearance of Imogen Good, Jed Greenleaf and Frankenstein: Abridged for Young Readers which has made me want to read the original – think I’ll treat myself to a special hardback copy.
NetGalley:
My feedback ratio is at 98%. I requested one book in October.
Books sent by publishers:
I am grateful to have been sent 15 books by publishers this month.
Books Bought:
I’ve bought 12 books in October. No wonder I need more book cases! The first six of these are middle-grade whilst the rest are either young adult or adult books. I’m beginning to think of my winter TBR so am looking out for wintry reads and murder mysteries which I always enjoy reading in the lead up to Christmas.
How has your reading month been? Have you read any of these?Have you any of them on your TBR?
Tomorrow’s Ghost is a haunting time-slip historical adventure, a story of connection, of bravery and hope, that completely captivated me.
Twelve-year-old Anna wakes from an unsettling dream to hear her Aunt Maggie making arrangements to send her away for the summer. When her Aunt wakes her in the morning, she tells her that she has been invited to stay with her Auntie Em who has sprained her ankle and wants her to help out whilst she recuperates. Not wanting to cause any trouble and feeling that she is a burden on her Aunt Maggie, Anna agrees to stay with Aunt Em, someone she barely knows.
Not sure what to expect, Anna is pleasantly surprised to be welcomed off the train by a grateful Aunt Em who introduces her to Bob, a huge, excitable bundle of canine delight. Taking the bus to Pear Tree Cottage, Anna immediately feels comfortable in this isolated, picturesque cottage – although her dreams of a young girl, Etty, seem to have followed her from London.
Taking Bob for an early morning walk, he races off after a fox and Anna follows only to find herself on a road leading to locked wrought iron gates. Despite the warning to keep out, Anna needs to find Bob so climbs over the wall to discover a huge, ruined mansion from which sadness emanates. Could this be the house from her dreams, the house where Etty was taken following a tragedy?
As Anna learns more about Etty’s life through her vivid dreams, she realises that she is in terrible danger. Can Anna find a way to cross time to save Etty but, in doing so, will she put her own life at risk?
I absolutely loved this beautifully atmospheric story that brings together two young girls from different times in an intricate, poignant story with some wonderful and unexpected twists. I really enjoyed that the reader learns Etty’s story reflected through Anna’s dreams which gives an otherworldly quality which contrasts with the reality of Anna’s life as she supports her Aunt through her recovery.
Both Anna and Etty are incredibly sympathetic young girls who, despite living in different times, share a connection through the loss of parents at a young age. Anna feels that she is a burden to her hard-working Aunt Maggie who has taken care of her since her parents’ death so she always smiles and agrees to suggestions, regardless of how she is feeling. She is growing apart from her best friend and doesn’t really know how to start a new friendship with the boy she meets in the village shop. Etty has the weight of her cruel, uncaring Grandfather’s expectations upon her young shoulders but she is determined to fight against his demands and seek her freedom. I loved how these two young girls, in need of friendship and understanding, find each other but can they also find what they need in their own time?
A beautifully told, time-slip adventure that brings two young girls together in a poignant and heart-warming story, perfect for readers of 9+.
Thank you to Walker Books for sending me a copy of this book. My review is my honest opinion of the book.
Written by Phil Hickes Illustrated byOriol Vidal Published by Barrington Stoke (an imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers)
The Last Day of October is a superbly spine-tingling middle-grade horror story where the past comes to haunt the present with terrifying effects … an absolutely gripping page-turner that kept me spellbound, and shivering, throughout.
The small town of Column Falls, Oregon has been decorated for Halloween, ready for trick-or-treating to commence, but Cody is seeking something altogether more scary. And what could be scarier than visiting the haunted ruins of McBride House where legend has it that the ghosts of the children who were trapped in the house appear on the last day of October.
Persuading his friends Sean and Duri to go with him, the trio head into the woods where they discover the McBride house with an open door and a light in an upstairs window. Eager for adventure, Cody convinces his friends to step inside, but will they discover the terrifying truth before it is too late?
Oh my goodness! This is everything I love about middle-grade horror. It’s genuinely spine-tingling with a brilliantly eerie atmosphere that kept me on the edge of my seat. The sense of anticipation and dread builds inexorably as the children realise the horrifying fate that awaits. I loved the setting of an old house in the woods surrounded by fog, the stillness and sounds, the prescient warning and the unsettling feeling that something has been set in motion that cannot be stopped. This really is the perfect autumnal spooky season read, but one I think best enjoyed before darkness descends – and preferably tucked up under a cosy blanket with some hot chocolate. No, on second thoughts, no hot chocolate – its guaranteed to spill as you shiver with fright!
The stunning illustrations, with a focus on light and dark, complement the eerie atmosphere and hidden terrors of this story perfectly.
Treat yourself to a genuinely spooky read which might just have a few tricks to play … perfect for readers of 9+.
Thank you to Barrington Stoke for sending me a copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
This book is published by the wonderful Barrington Stoke who publish dyslexia-friendly, super-readable and accessible books for children of all ages. This is suitable for 9+ with a reading age of 8.
Abridged for Young Readers by Lucy Strange Cover and interior illustrations by Kristina Kister Published by Walker Books
Frankenstein: Abridged for Young Readers is a powerful and masterful abridgement of this classic gothic tale of ambition, abandonment, vengeance and love, an incredibly emotional story that absolutely gripped me from start to finish.
On an ambitious expedition to the North Pole, Captain Robert Walton rescues a young man desperate to find someone who he has been pursuing … and so we learn the tragic tale of Victor Frankenstein and that of his creation …
Victor was brought up in a loving household with his parents, their adopted daughter and two younger brothers. Following the death of his mother, he travels to Germany to study, a place where he develops a keen interest in chemistry and an obsession to discover the mysteries of creation. His fascination with life and death leads him to create new life … but the creature disgusts him and he immediately abandons his creation to fend for itself …
The repercussions of this split-second decision will haunt Victor for the rest of his life as the creature that he has created and rejected becomes the monster he both fears and loathes. As the creature seeks to form bonds and find a place in the world, it can find no succour and is only ever met with fear and loathing by others, even when the deeds it performs show that it is capable of goodness and kindness. Being denied basic human connection and comfort leads to a craving for vengeance against its maker with the most heart-breaking consequences.
I was absolutely gripped by this story from start to finish, a classic masterfully re-told with such quality of language and depth of emotion that I found myself completely lost in the story, my heart at times aching for both Victor and his creation but also despairing and angered by their intentions and actions.
I think the themes in this story transcend time through its exploration of universal human experiences, offering some wonderful opportunities for discussion. Who is the real monster of the story? Was this creature born a monster or was it made into one by its experiences? What would have happened if Victor had not negated his responsibility towards his creation? The story serves as a timely reminder of what happens when individualistic ambition runs unchecked with a disregard for ethical considerations.
A poignant and powerful abridgement of this classic story, perfect for young readers of 10+.
Thank you to Walker Books for providing me with a copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
The Spirit of Loughmoe Abbey is a heart-breaking, haunting ghost story, a story that captures pain, hope and healing, and one which held me enthralled throughout.
Gwen has been home-schooled but, when her mother needs to go in to hospital, a reluctant Gwen is sent to boarding school at Loughmoe Abbey – an impressive, old house within the grounds of a monastic site. But she immediately feels lost and trapped, finding it difficult to make friends, to adapt to sharing a dorm with four other girls, and struggling with the expectations for learning in a classroom. Her only comfort is that she has been allowed to bring her dog, Bella – even though she has to stay in the kennels.
On a walk with Bella, Gwen finds herself at the Bell Tower, the only place which students are forbidden to enter without written permission from the Principal. When she is met by an older girl who has clearly been crying, Gwen’s curiosity is stirred, and she is determined to find out what happens in the Tower. After a strange occurrence which frightens Gwen, she is told the secret of the Tower by the Principal. But surely, there could not be ghosts in the school – and why would one want to communicate with her?
Gwen is given permission to visit the Tower and, when she does, she meets a spirit who shares a secret with her and tells her that she wants to help both Gwen and her mother. But can she trust this ghost? Can they work together to help Gwen’s mum heal?
This is such a heart-achingly moving story that deals with some powerful themes, including grief and mental health, in a sensitive manner. I loved the idea of a boarding school that brings people who need help to it, the blend of school life with the supernatural and the unexpected twists that were just perfect. I think there is so much potential to learn the stories of other students at Loughmoe Abbey and I really hope there’s a return to this wonderful school which is definitely not a typical boarding school.
Gwen is such a sympathetic young girl whose only understanding of education before joining Loughmoe Abbey is her mother’s very relaxed home-schooling which has meant that she finds herself academically behind the other students. She struggles with understanding what friendship is, with learning in an environment and in a manner that are not suited to her neurodivergence, and with the constant worry about her mum, putting extra pressure on herself to do well in the hope that this will make her mum better.
A stunning story of family and friendship, of healing and hope, of loss and connection, perfect for young readers of 9+.
Thank you to the publisher, Our Street Books, for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Squirrel and Bird are best friends even though they are opposites. Whilst Squirrel is loud and confident, Bird is quiet and shy. But the reader soon discovers that there is much more to these two woodland creatures than how they are perceived by the narrator of the story. As they get ready for a concert to which all the forest animals are invited, it quickly becomes clear that both bird and squirrel’s identities cannot be defined by a single quality and they express themselves in different ways at different times and in different situations.
I absolutely loved the muted autumnal colour palette used to create the most stunning images of the woodland and its creatures from the acorns and ladybirds to the badgers and hedgehogs. The endpapers are joyous and I have no doubt that young children will enjoy following a pictorial nature trail within them. I also loved that squirrel and bird are enjoying the creative expression that many children enjoy such as playing instruments, singing and painting as they prepare for their concert.
I also really liked the cleverness of the messages shown in the illustrations which are often in contrast to the narrator’s words, for example, telling the reader that bird prefers to sit and do nothing when bird is making a poster or stating that Squirrel has no nerves when his facial expression shows otherwise.
Whilst this story is mostly told from the narrator’s viewpoint, Bird does react to what is said and this is shown in a different font which will help young children to distinguish between the voices. I really liked that Bird is a brilliant advocate for the different aspects of personality and was able to convince the narrator to define them as not just one personality trait but as a kaleidoscope of traits.
I loved the messages about self-expression, perception of others, identity and the different traits that define someone. This story opens up a perfect opportunity to discuss these messages with young children.
A stunning and thought-provoking picture book, with the most heart-warming messages, perfect for children of 3+.
Thank you to Little Tiger to sending me a copy of this book. It was my decision to read and review and my review is my honest opinion of the book.
Written by Christopher Edge Cover and interior illustrations by Mathias Ball Published by Walker Books
Fear Files: Hide and Seek is the start of a new spine-tingling, horror series that completely gripped me as I read the first case in the Darkive database where fear is taken to a whole new level.
Adam is on a weekend camping trip with best friend, Sol but, rather than the glamping experience he’d hoped for, he finds himself stuck in a farmer’s field in the middle of nowhere – and questioning his friendship. Determined to find some fun and adventure, Adam heads off to explore and soon finds a walled village at the edge of woodland. Despite Sol’s reservations, the boys enter the village only to discover that it is deserted. Rather than leave, Adam challenges a reluctant Sol to a game of hide and seek, but someone – or something – else is playing too … Can Adam stay one hide ahead of a scary seeker determined to find him?
Ready or not, here I come …
And so begins a deliciously scary, fast-paced and heart-racing read where tension builds inexorably as danger edges ever-and-ever closer taking the reader on a roller-coaster of emotion – from fear to relief and back again. I loved the twists in time and place within the ghost town, the use of shadow and darkness and the unsettling feeling of an ominous presence that cannot be escaped, no matter where you hide. I remember playing hide and seek at primary school where a favourite hiding place was the ‘witch’s hut’ at the bottom of the school field – no-one would dare seek you there, but you also scared yourself silly! And this is a story that will definitely bring frissons of fright. I absolutely loved the creepiness of this game as the countdown rang out, as hiders desperately sought a hiding place and as the seeker closes in … and the sense that, if caught, all would not end well … genuinely sent shivers down my spine and kept me eagerly turning pages until I reached the end … and, oh my goodness, that’s all I’m going to say …
As well as the first person account of events, there are also extracts from the Darkive case file for Adam Flynn which include encyclopedia entries, newspaper clippings and agent notes that makes this feel like the reader has been given a glimpse into a real, classified case … just brilliant … but I’m not sure I can destroy after reading. In fact, I’m bringing this straight to my school library! I also really liked the creepy illustrations and fingerprints on the pages which complement this scary story perfectly.
Get ready for an edge-of-your seat, spine-tingling adventure that is guaranteed to grip young readers of 9+ as they are given Level 4 clearance into the Darkive.
Thank you to Toppsta and Walker Books for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Today, I’m excited to be taking part in the cover reveal for a new middle-grade book, Lianna and the Hombit, by Valinora Troy which will be out on 29th January 2026.
13-year-old Lianna has lost everything: her home, her friends, and most devastatingly, her beloved Papa. Sent to live with her uncle, Lianna is certain he will be cruel and unkind, for why else would Papa have run away when he was young?
Robbed on arrival of her precious keepsakes, Lianna receives a worse-than-expected welcome from her uncle. His servants are hostile and even her grandparents seem to glare at her from their portraits over the fire.
When a magical creature resembling a small glass bird bursts into her life in a mix of sparks and fire, Lianna is eager to assist the hombit with its secret mission if it helps her return home. Which leads to Lianna undertaking a risky dive near perilous sea stacks known as ‘living rocks’.
When her dive goes wrong, she awakens a creature that seeks to rob her of her humanity.To survive, Lianna must uncover the dark secrets of her father’s past. Now she faces a stark decision: does she save herself or the town that rejects both her and her father?
A heart-warming story of the healing power of friendship when all seems lost.
Valinora Troy is a children’s fantasy writer from Ireland. She has a MA in Creative Writing Specialising in Writing for Children and Young Adults, and has served as a panellist for the CYBILS awards (elementary & middle grade speculative fiction category). Her short stories for adults have been in a number of publications. She is the author of ‘The Lucky Diamond’ trilogy, three middle grade children’s fantasy adventures. She has recently been shortlisted for the Staróg prize, and has served as a Reading Ambassador for Louth County Libraries.
Written by Katya Balen Illustrated by Gill Smith Published by Walker Books
The Appletree Animal Agency: Collie Chaos is the second book in this absolutely charming, cosy adventure series for young readers.
TheAppletree Animal Agency is having an official meeting in its headquarters which just so happens to be the most wonderful tree house. Mattie and best friends, Zoe and Casper are eager to help everyone in the village find their perfect pet and help them with care and training tips. The team are keen to re-home rescue animals Algernon the terrapin and Crumpet, a ginger cat, but could someone else also be in need of a new home?
On their way to help out at Dr Polly’s vet surgery and animal rescue centre, the children discover three-legged collie, Domino who has, once again, escaped from his owner, Mrs McDonald. Whilst Mrs McDonald clearly adores Domino, she is finding it hard to handle this rather naughty puppy who is set on having his own adventures, but could Domino have a reason for leaving his new home at every opportunity?
When Domino, once again, escapes during a snowstorm, the team are determined to find him before he lands himself in real trouble. But, when they finally find Domino, they discover the real reason he has been leaving home …
This is the most delightful adventure, filled with humour, heart and friendship – and plenty of chaos from Domino as he seeks his forever family. The village of Mossdale sounds absolutely idyllic and I loved that this time we visit during the lead-up to the Christmas Fête with snow falling – so cosy and definitely made me want to snuggle up with a hot chocolate – which I think is the perfect way to read this adorable adventure.
I adore the close friendship between Mattie, Zoe and Casper and their pets. The children clearly adore animals and take on a lot of responsibility in re-homing animals, working hard to ensure that they are with their perfect matches! I loved that the team didn’t see this as the end of their responsibilities but continued to help the new owners as they care for their pets, especially through their dog training sessions.
The black and white illustrations throughout are absolutely wonderful and complement the warmth and charm of this story perfectly, making it a fantastic chapter book for young readers.
Another heart-warming, delightful and fun-filled adventure from The Appletree Animal Agency that is guaranteed to enchant young readers of 7+.
Thank you to Walker Books for inviting me to take part in the Blog Tour and for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Written by Dominique Valente Artwork by Eleonora Asparuhova Published by Usborne
Witchlight is the enchanting sequel to Witchspark: a magical, mesmerising adventure glowing with heart, warmth and friendship, with danger, daring and dastardly villains, a story that held me spellbound as I ventured back to the Magic Isles …
Miss Hegotty’s Secret Society for Witches is meeting in none other than sentient house, Huswyvern, but poor Hus has got a cold – and its sneezing is causing chaos. Eglantine, who is magically bonded to Hus, is searching for a cure in her Grimoire – but it keeps directing her to a page that has been torn out!
Meanwhile, Miss Hegotty is determined to expose the truth about the binding of magic in young girls, and boys from poor backgrounds. Could the Department of Isle-Spark Regulation be involved in the binding in order to retain power amongst society’s wealthiest, and most powerful, men? As two courageous society members go undercover to seek answers, Eglantine and wyvern-butler, Arthur, are tasked with a new mission: to welcome a new society member.
Making their way to Edinburgh via lightning-carriage, Eglantine and Arthur meet aspiring journalist Myrtle who reveals that she is investigating a flu amongst magical creatures that is putting them in terrible danger. But magical creatures, and sentient houses, cannot become sick, so could they be affected by a magical curse? And who could be responsible for placing such a terrible curse upon them?
And so begins the most incredible, magical adventure as Eglantine and her friends enter a fight against injustices, a fight to help those who are being wronged and a fight to ensure a fair society with rights for all, including magical creatures. Can they find a way to counter a curse capable of great harm? Can they expose the truth before time runs out? And, can they save each other from power-hungry villains who will stop at nothing to keep the power to which they feel entitled? Be prepared for time and portal travel, disguise spells and genie wishes, ghosts and magical beings, including a book dragon!
It was wonderful being back in the company of Eglantine and her best friend, Princess Victoria, two incredibly courageous, resilient and determined young ladies who are resolved to stand up against injustice and to fight for those they love despite the danger this places them in.
The illustrations, including framed chapter headings and full-page illustrations, are gorgeous and really complement the magic, warmth and peril in this adventure.
A spellbinding, magical adventure which glows with warmth, hope and friendship, perfect for readers of 8+.
Thank you to Fritha Lindqvist and Usborne for sending me a copy of Witchlight. It was my decision to review it, and my review is my honest opinion.
Book Craic 