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WE VALUE CHILDREN AS UNIQUE INDIVIDUALS WITH THEIR OWN PURPOSE

PRIMARY READING SPINE

INTRODUCTION

Our Bishop Bewick reading spine is a stunning collection of books selected carefully for their superb stories, exquisite illustrations and their ability to bind our school communities together with common experiences. Essentially, we have developed the spine to promote a love of reading, with books that represent and celebrate all children, regardless of their gender, ethnicity or social class. We similarly wanted to empower our teaching staff by providing them with a robust tool that would support them when recommending both captivating and enthralling books to our children.

 

In addition to this, it has been constructed to ensure that our children are offered a superb diet of stories that will delight and inspire them, when they share and talk about these books as part of their reading for pleasure programme. The themes we have chosen for our spine help our children to make sense of the world around them, as well as their own emotions and experiences.

 

We have developed a progressive reading spine which ensures the children get a broad and balanced reading diet by the time they leave us in Year 6. The stories and poetry increase in complexity and challenge to ensure that we promote a love of reading that we hope will engage and delight children across our Bishop Bewick schools.

HOW TO PLACE AN ORDER:

Staff in our Primary Schools can place an order by clicking the button below. Please note, you must be a member of this site in order to do this.

INSPIRED BY THE NORTH

It is important that our readers see themselves and their community in the books that they read.

Early Years

A lovely book that explores childhood worries and how to overcome them. It is not until a visit to his grandma's that he learns how to combat his fears with the aid of his imagination – and some tiny worry dolls. This was selected as many children will be able to empathise with Billy and may find strategies to support them in their daily struggles.

INSPIRED BY THE NORTH

"Silly Billy"

By Anthony Browne

Early Years

Lions aren't allowed at school, but Iris's lion doesn't want to be left behind. He even stows away on the school trip to the museum, causing much madness and mayhem as he hides among the exhibits. This is a warm and funny book, with exquisite illustrations that will delight children across our Trust.

INSPIRED BY THE NORTH

"How to Hide a Lion at School"

By Helen Stephens

Early Years

Join Maya and all her friends as they get together at the dojo for their Saturday karate class! Chosen as it is a gorgeous book that celebrates working together with determination to succeed.

INSPIRED BY THE NORTH

"Karate Kids"

By Holly Sterling

Early Years

Based in our beautiful Northumberland, children will love hearing about the rural adventures of Floss in this stunning picture book. The border collie, having lived as a pup in the city, moves to a Northumberland farm and must learn how to round up the sheep.

INSPIRED BY THE NORTH

"Floss"

By Kim Lewis

Early Years

Rabbit is your typical rabbit who loves doing normal rabbity things! However, he also loves doing other things as well! When Rabbit disappears, his friends don’t know where he has gone and are left feeling lost and upset! Luckily, there is hope, as Rabbit leaves very special gifts for them to help them discover their own talents! Not only is Rabbityness a beautiful picture book that celebrates individuality but it also introduces children to dealing with loss in a positive way.

THE WORLD AROUND US

"Rabbityness"

By Jo Empson

Early Years

This is a lovely story about eight different families, who are all very different. As the story unfolds, we celebrate these differences whilst at the same time the reader arrives at an understanding that they are similar in lots of ways too. A beautiful rhyming text to promote diversity.

THE WORLD AROUND US

"We are Family"

By Ryan Wheatcroft

Early Years

This fabulous story is about a boy called Ravi. One day, he unleashes the tiger within! He quickly learns how to understand his feelings and deal with his emotions, giving him the tools necessary to make amends.

THE WORLD AROUND US

"Ravi's Roar"

By Tom Percival

Early Years

A sweet story about a little girl and her family who deal with the challenges of having a family member incarcerated. Chosen to help children reflect on consequences and forgiveness. This book would link well to work in PSHE, RE and topics that explore right and wrong.

THE WORLD AROUND US

"My Brother is Away"

By Sara Greenwood

Early Years

This striking picture book will inspire our children to look after and protect the world around us. This heart warming story shows how even the smallest person can make a difference! Mr Hoot lives in a tree outside Ben’s house. When the tree faces being cut down, a young hero fights tirelessly to save the home of the beautiful owl!

IN OUR HANDS

"Saving Mr Hoot"

By Helen Stephens

Early Years

This funny story follows squirrel on a mission to find the leaf thief! He wakes one day to find that the leaves on the trees are missing. On his journey to discover the truth, he makes many new friends! This is a great book to help our children learn about how the world around them changes throughout the year!

IN OUR HANDS

"The Leaf Thief"

By Alice Hemming & Nicola Slater

Early Years

This beautifully illustrated book shares the perspective of a young boy who would run the country very differently to the adults! It is perfect for inspiring and encouraging aspirations amongst our young children!

IN OUR HANDS

"If I Were Prime Minister"

By Trygve Skaug & Ella Oksted

Early Years

This stunning picture book is ideal for introducing children to the carbon cycle.
Our children will love joining Wilson on his journey from the ocean to the sky! The story is perfect for encouraging our young children to look after our planet!

IN OUR HANDS

"Somebody Woke Wilson"

By Sarah Roberts & Hannah Jayne Lewin

Early Years

Martha is a little girl who loves to draw maps of her thoughts and dreams! She dreams BIG, of a future where anything is possible! Children will love the detailed pictures, the non-fiction labels and the facts that they discover on each page. The beautiful book celebrates our world and is full of optimism for the future.

DISCOVERY

"Martha Maps It Out"

By Leigh Hodgkinson

Early Years

This amusing story is about a little girl called Lucy, who goes dress shopping with her Aunt. All she wants is a dress with pockets, somewhere to put her precious objects - for fossils and flints and butterscotch mints! Will Lucy be able to find the ideal dress to embrace her inquisitive nature and marvellous sense of adventure?

DISCOVERY

"A Dress with Pockets"

By Lily Murray & Jenny Lovlie

Early Years

This beautifully illustrated book is perfect for introducing our children to the story of H20. The poetry informs and teaches our children, while the stunning pictures engage and capture their attention. A fantastic book of discovery and wonder.

DISCOVERY

"Once Upon a Raindrop"

By James Carter

Early Years

One of the most beautiful picture books around; this book shows how a group of insects deal with an unexpected arrival. Selected because of the stunning illustrations and a way to explore the unknown. This book would link to work in Science but is worth a deep read all on its own just for its sheer surreal beauty.

DISCOVERY

"It Fell from the Sky"

By The Fan Brothers

Early Years

This charming story, with its gorgeous illustrations, is about a little boy who is the custodian of the night. It is a great story for reassuring those children who are afraid of the dark, as it shows them the night through a different lens.

OUT OF THIS WORLD

"The Night Box"

By Louise Greig & Ashling Lindsay

Early Years

This enchanting story is about a little boy called Theodore, who loves to make new discoveries whilst out on his little boat. When he discovers a mermaid, he is quickly reminded of the importance of looking after the world in which he livea, as well as the people and creatures in it.

OUT OF THIS WORLD

"Mermaid's Tale"

By Beatrice Blue

Early Years

This beautiful tale of friendship helps our children to appreciate and celebrate being different. Maud hides in her cave as she is afraid of flying, but makes a gorgeous new friend in Mouse. This book will immerse your children, with its stunning pictures and captivating story of courage.

OUT OF THIS WORLD

"The Night Dragon"

By Naomi Howarth

Early Years

A modern classic that spans the world and prioritises kindness. There are lots of lovely details to explore in the illustrations and children will definitely benefit from reading it more than once. Selected to encourage thinking about the wider context of the world, this book links to Geography, PSHE, Art, Science - pretty much everything.

OUT OF THIS WORLD

"Here We Are"

By Oliver Jeffers

Early Years

This funny story is about a little boy called Albert who is desperate for a pet. This delightful story celebrates finding companionship in the most unlikely of places. Children will find hilarity in Albert’s commitment to his new pet!

JUST FOR FUN

"The Pet Potato"

By Josh Lacey & Momoko Abe

Early Years

This book is glorious; an absolute delight from start to finish. Nibbles the naughty book monster is eating his way through fairy tales that don’t belong to him. Chosen because we simply couldn’t put it down - the illustrations and layout make it a joy to read. It would link well to work on fairy tales and PSHE but I can promise every child will enjoy it for the main character.

JUST FOR FUN

"Nibbles The Book Monster"

By Emma Yarlett

Early Years

This brilliant, funny picture book is about Barbara. She becomes overwhelmed with emotions, resulting in the Wobbler making its appearance. This heart warming book follows Barbara as she learns how to deal with such big feelings! It is perfect for helping our children understand how to address their own big feelings too.

JUST FOR FUN

"Barbara Throws a Wobbler"

By Nadia Shireen

Early Years

A beautifully illustrated picture book which divides the world into three sections: big, small and in-between. Chosen to provoke high quality talk about the everyday and faraway world around us. This book makes links to mathematics, science and will be particularly enjoyed by children developing their curiosity about the wider world.

JUST FOR FUN

"Big and Small and In-between"

By Carter Higgins

Early Years

This enchanting story with its stunning illustrations, is about Square. He inadvertently discovers that he is an artist when he makes sculptures out of his blocks. In this clever, funny book, children will be given the courage to follow their own ideas around and express themselves in the medium of art.

SPOTLIGHT ILLUSTRATOR

"Square"

By Mac Barnett & Jon Klassen

Early Years

This entertaining book is designed to be a little bit funny and a little bit spooky! It tells the story of three friends who play hide and seek. One enters forbidden territory and it is Circle’s job to rescue him. This book is perfect to celebrate those with a sense of adventure!

SPOTLIGHT ILLUSTRATOR

"Circle"

By Mac Barnett & Jon Klassen

Early Years

This quirky picture book is about a bear who sets out in search of his missing hat.
On his quest to find it, he asks many animals if they have seen his hat. One of them is not truthful with him! The beautiful and stylish illustrations, with their muted colours, will delight and fascinate our children.

SPOTLIGHT ILLUSTRATOR

"I Want My Hat Back"

By Jon Klassen

Early Years

Adults and children alike will enjoy poring over the gorgeous illustrations in this fabulous book by Jon Klassen. They will delight in the story of the little fish who steals a hat from a much bigger fish! Young readers will find humour when the confident little fish finally gets his comeuppance at the end of the story!

SPOTLIGHT ILLUSTRATOR

"This is Not My Hat"

By Jon Klassen

Key Stage 1

A truly beautiful, gentle book that looks at the impact of industrial employment on family generations. The story is spare but perfectly formed; the illustrations really add to the depth of the tale. A great book to read alongside work on family and human geography.

INSPIRED BY THE NORTH

"Town is by the Sea"

By Joanne Schwartz

Key Stage 1

Polonius, the pit pony, escapes from the coal mine and joins a family of Travellers. He loves his new family and the lifestyle that they offer him. As the story evolves, Polonius really wants to show how much he appreciates his new family! This gorgeous story is perfect for exploring the values of independence, courage and hard work.

INSPIRED BY THE NORTH

"Polonius the Pit Pony"

By Richard O'Neill

Key Stage 1

In a world which has been drained of its colour, it is us to a team of dedicated children to rebuild a better future that is filled with hope. This stunning picture book is ideal for teaching children about the importance of a thriving community.

INSPIRED BY THE NORTH

"In Our Hands"

By Lucy Farfort

Key Stage 1

This beautiful picture book, written and illustrated by a local author, follows the adventures of Bob, everyone's favourite man on the moon! He knows everything that we need to know about the moon and space, but he is left confused when he discovers a new tree! Children will love following Bob on his crazy adventures.

INSPIRED BY THE NORTH

"Bob and the Moon Tree Mystery"

By Simon Bartram

Key Stage 1

With its stunning illustrations, this lyrical picture book is perfect for teaching and celebrating diversity. It tells the story of a young Asian girl who notices that her eyes look different from those of her peers'. This exquisite picture book is empowering as it teaches the reader about self love, while drawing upon the strength of powerful women.

THE WORLD AROUND US

"Eyes That Kiss in the Corners"

By Joanna Ho

Key Stage 1

This beautiful picture book follows two sisters, Faizah, on her first day of school, and Asiya, her older sister, who wears her blue hijab for the first time. This powerful story celebrates the bonds of family, whilst at the same time is ideal for teaching our children about resilience and being proud of who you are.

THE WORLD AROUND US

"The Proudest Blue"

By Ibtihaj Muhammed with S K Sli & Hatem Aly

Key Stage 1

The Forgettery is a poignant story that tells the story of Amelia and her grandmother, who has dementia. This heart-warming and beautifully crafted story celebrates the importance of making memories, while at the same time opening up discussions around this sensitive, yet very relevant topic.

THE WORLD AROUND US

"The Forgettery"

By Rachel Ip & Laura Hughes

Key Stage 1

A charming picture book that captures a gentle pace of life and examines the importance that every person plays in a community. It looks at the relationship between a father and son as they observe the roles of the people around them. This book would work well with geography, history and PSHE topics but it’s worth a read for the delicious recipe!

THE WORLD AROUND US

"The Baker by the Sea"

By Paula White

Key Stage 1

This endearing story is about the life of a mighty oak tree that lives at the centre of the community. Sadly, the old tree gets chopped down, but there is hope …. a little girl plants one of her acorns in the community garden. A lovely story to promote caring for the world in which we live.

IN OUR HANDS

"Adoette"

By Lydia Monks

Key Stage 1

This is a very poignant story about a hardworking mother and her daughter, who are forced to visit the local food bank. Although the mother is ashamed about visiting the food bank, the little girl is still filled with hope for the future. This very relevant story is essential for developing empathy and understanding amongst our children, for those who are vulnerable in our community.

IN OUR HANDS

"It's A No Money Day"

By Kate Milner

Key Stage 1

This exquisite picture book is about a polar bear who finds himself away from home, stranded in the woods. The other animals are initially frightened of him and think him to be odd. One day, he crafts wings out of the leaves that he has been collecting and attempts to fly back home using them. A heart-warming story about helping outsiders, while also highlighting the plight of polar bears in today's changing climate.

IN OUR HANDS

"Leaf"

By Sandra Dieckman

Key Stage 1

This beautiful anthology contains a powerful collection of poems about nature. Dreaming forests, bouquets of buried stars, the brushed lava fur of a mountain gorilla … these are but a few of the stunning images that the poetry conjures. This exquisite book will inspire our children about our wonderful word of nature, while also promoting a lifelong love of poetry.

IN OUR HANDS

"Our Earth is a Poem"

By Various

Key Stage 1

This is an empowering story that introduces our children to the world of engineering. Zara travels around the city with her gran and learns about some of the brilliant engineers in her world. This inspires her to make her own incredible inventions. This book is perfect for complementing STEM and celebrating great women in this field.

DISCOVERY

"An Engineer Like Me"

By Dr Shini Somara & Nadja Sawell

Key Stage 1

This lyrical book takes children on a fascinating prehistoric adventure. It contains an excellent collection of poetry, information and vibrant illustrations about dinosaurs and palaeontology. This book is perfect for inspiring our students to discover our prehistoric past through a new lens.

DISCOVERY

"The Beasts Beneath Our Feet"

By James Carter & Alisa Kosareva

Key Stage 1

A perfect compliment to work on the world around us, this book encourages the reader to slow down and observe the wonder in the world around us. Taking different elements of the natural world as its focus, each element is explored in glorious detail. The illustrations grab the reader’s attention but the vocabulary rich text is the real star.

DISCOVERY

"Slow Down"

By Rachel Williams

Key Stage 1

Children will enjoy this beautiful picture book as they embark on an epic adventure in a submarine to visit the oceans. This book introduces children to different bodies of water and the creatures and plants that inhabit them. The colourful illustrations will captivate our readers and highlight the importance of looking after our beautiful oceans.

DISCOVERY

"Meet the Oceans"

By Caryl Hart

Key Stage 1

Kitty’s mum is a superhero. Kitty is desperate to be like her mum, but she is afraid to go out at night alone. This gorgeous story follows Kitty as she overcomes her fears, making friends along the way. This story is perfect for inspiring friendship and bravery amongst our children in a world unbeknown to us!

OUT OF THIS WORLD

"Kitty and the Moonlight Rescue:

By Paula Harrison & Jenny Lovlie

Key Stage 1

In the midst of winter, the animals are suffering - they are cold and hungry, The Crow bravely sets off on a perilous journey to find the Sun, and beg for warmth. This beautiful picture book shows how courage and kindness are what really matter in our world.

OUT OF THIS WORLD

"The Crow's Tale"

By Noami Howarth

Key Stage 1

This stunning book is about a little girl called Nyla, who leaves her home in the country to live in a big city. Nyla desperately misses what she has left behind, until a comet makes its entrance!

OUT OF THIS WORLD

"The Comet"

By Joe Todd-Stanton

Key Stage 1

This delightful story is about a sea-born creature, who never quite belongs. As the book unfolds, she discovers who she really is and finds her true home. This book is perfect for celebrating differences amongst our children.

OUT OF THIS WORLD

"Here Be Monsters"

By Jay Hulme & Sahar Haghgoo

Key Stage 1

This uplifting, rhyming story is set in a fairytale world. Its main character, Wolf loves to read. He soon realises that in most of the stories he reads, the heroes are handsome, tough and strong. When a giant invades his library, Wolf, the unlikely hero saves the day. This book is ideal for challenging stereotypes and inspiring courage!

JUST FOR FUN

"A Hero Called Wolf"

By Lucy Rowland & Ben Mantle

Key Stage 1

Beast Feast is a delightfully funny book! It is about a Beast who catches a tasty dinner - a child! As the story unfolds, Beast’s friends write him letters instructing him how to cook dinner. The children will love opening the hilarious letters and watching an unlikely friendship unfold as the child suggests different meals for him to try!

JUST FOR FUN

"Beast Feast"

By Emma Yarlett

Key Stage 1

This excellent anthology of poems is designed to be read aloud. There are a range of poems to perform, with tongue twisters that the children will find funny. This book is perfect for inspiring our young poets, with its contemporary illustrations and its humorous content. A must read for KS1.

JUST FOR FUN

"Poems Aloud"

By Joseph Coelho & Daniel Gray-Barnett

Key Stage 1

In this clever and fascinating book, Joseph Coelho presents us with some fantastic tales using just ten words. Each story is furnished with a stylish illustration that will unlock the imaginations of our young readers. This book is perfect for inspiring creativity in future writers.

JUST FOR FUN

"Ten Word Tiny Tales"

By Joseph Coelho

Key Stage 1

In this surreal tale of cooperation, a mouse is swallowed by a wolf. When inside the wolf's tummy, he meets Duck who has made a home for himself inside the wolf’s belly. He quickly learns that life is not so bad until the hunter arrives and threatens to hurt Wolf. The children will not only find this stunning picture book hilarious, but they will also learn about the value of working together.

SPOTLIGHT ILLUSTRATOR

"The Wolf, The Duck and The Mouse"

By Mac Barnett & Jon Klassen

Key Stage 1

This funny story is about two boys who are searching for something exciting but they keep missing! This tale is perfect for teaching our children about resilience and working together. They will also enjoy poring over the stunning illustrations, with the illustrators beautiful attention to detail.

SPOTLIGHT ILLUSTRATOR

"Sam and Dave Dig a Hole"

By Mac Barnett & Jon Klassen

Key Stage 1

This visually stunning picture book is a story of Turtle and Armadillo. Turtle loves standing in a particular spot and invites his friend to stand in the same spot too. This funny story, along with its well crafted illustrations, will engage both teachers and students alike.

SPOTLIGHT ILLUSTRATOR

"The Rock from the Sky"

By Jon Klassen

Key Stage 1

Our children will love this version of The Three Billy Goats Gruff, with its beautiful pictures and hilarious content! Barnett and Klassen superbly write a fantastic twist to this traditional tale that will engage and intrigue our KS1 children. This is a perfect picture book for inspiring our children to be creative in a fun way!

SPOTLIGHT ILLUSTRATOR

"The Three Billy Goats Gruff"

By Mac Barnett & Jon Klassen

Key Stage 2

George, a nine year old boy, works in a local mine. Not long after he starts work, a terrible storm leads to flooding in the mine. He is left trapped in the dark! George spots a shadowy figure that seems to be telling George to follow him. The big question is, ‘Should he?’ This intriguing story was chosen due to the setting being similar to our own local heritage!

INSPIRED BY THE NORTH

"The Storm and the Minotaur"

By Lucy Strange

Key Stage 2

Alfie is 1000 years old and has lived through history but after losing his mum, all he wants is to be like any other child and grow old. We chose this book to celebrate the work of a brilliant local author as the children also stumble upon place names they may recognise from the north east.

INSPIRED BY THE NORTH

"The 1000 Year Old Boy"

By Ross Welford

Key Stage 2

This story, written by a great local author, is about Oskari, a 13 year old who is sent into the wilderness on an ancient test of manhood. Armed with just a bow and arrow, he must survive. However, his test takes a turn, when he finds an escape pod from a burning airliner: Air Force One. Terrorists have shot down the President of the United States. Children will be gripped by the tale of Oskari and the President as they are hunted by a deadly enemy.

INSPIRED BY THE NORTH

"Big Game"

By Dan Smith

Key Stage 2

This charming story is about Nanty Solo - she can turn children into birds. The children very much want to fly - they are free to soar, hope, and explore. Soon the terrified parents see their lives through a different lens, and soon reach the realisation that they want to say yes to life too. This heartwarming tale is perfect for encouraging our children to find joy in what they do and take chances.

INSPIRED BY THE NORTH

"The Woman Who Turned Children Into Birds"

By David Almond

Key Stage 2

Sade has been escaping into an imaginary world ever since her mum sadly passed away. She ventures into a magical world, filled with beauty and adventure. However, her normal world is falling apart - her relationship with her dad is hard, and children at school are cruel and unkind. This beautiful story tackles big feelings, showing our children that it is better to share our feelings and emotions.

THE WORLD AROUND US

"Sade and Her Shadow Beasts"

By Rachel Faturoti

Key Stage 2

An inspirational poetry anthology that encourages children to take joy in their identities.Ranging from body image to heritage to individuality; these beautiful poems will delight and provoke deep thinking. Featuring work from Jason Reynolds, Jay Hulme, Nikita Gill and many others. A powerful read for when time is short and you want to leave the children with something to ponder.

THE WORLD AROUND US

"Courage In A Poem"

By Various

Key Stage 2

Written as a collaboration between the author Rebecca Westcott with the diary entries of 11 year old Libby Scott; this book focuses on the life of Tally and how she experiences the world as an autistic person. Encouraging empathy and understanding that will appeal to all children.

THE WORLD AROUND US

"Can You See Me?"

By Libby Scott

Key Stage 2

The tales behind some of our favourite foods; the book is a fully illustrated exploration of the myths and folklore that inspired Chinese food. Separated into course like a Chinese menu, these stories will delight and surprise all readers. An unforgettable book that will draw the children in and provoke a deeper interest in the food we eat and the diversity of cultures all around us.

THE WORLD AROUND US

"Chinese Menu"

By Grace Lin

Key Stage 2

An absolute classic; based on a true story. In 1941, an angry boy called Joseph is sent to live in a run down zoo with a woman who does not like children. As the bombs fall, Joseph builds a bond with Adonis, the Silverback Gorilla who lives in the zoo. A wonderful story about the power of kindness; be prepared to think about this one for a long time after you have finished reading it with your class. A great book if you are studying World War II but it will resonate with all children’s innate sense of justice.

IN OUR HANDS

"When The Sky Falls"

By Phil Earle

Key Stage 2

A beautiful and very clever picture book about evolution and the impact of human intervention. A lyrical model of Darwin’s theory of natural selection; this book repays being read more than once - each time a new detail, a new understanding is revealed. Accessible to all but with ambitious vocabulary and deep scientific understanding behind the poetry of the language. A really great book to deepen scientific enquiry and encourage curiosity.

IN OUR HANDS

"Moth"

By Isabel Thomas & Daniel Egneus

Key Stage 2

A moving picture book that offers understanding rather than a solution. It follows a boy with a stammer who has had a difficult day with his speech and the emotional impact on him. Through the loving and positive relationship with his father he comes to have a different perspective on his speech. Just beautiful; a really caring, beautiful book which promotes empathy and acceptance.

IN OUR HANDS

"I Talk Like A River"

By Jordan Scott & Sydney Smith

Key Stage 2

An absolute page turner: adventure, mystery,loyalty, betrayal, hilarious narrator - this book has it all. Told from the perspective of Maggie, the forgotten middle child, living within a protected enclosure whilst a war rages outside. Her world changes forever when she meets an outsider in need of help. A great story to get children to think about how they become who they want to be.

IN OUR HANDS

"The Middler"

By Kirsty Applebaum

Key Stage 2

Take your class on a tour of the world from your classroom. Travelling through deserts, mountains, polar wildernesses and the blue ocean, you will discover the infinite variety of life that class it home. Interspersed with the stories of children and adults who have taken action to protect the planet we call home. A great book to dip in and out of.

DISCOVERY

"What A Wonderful World"

By Leisa Stewart-Sharpe

Key Stage 2

An illustrated guide to the process and people involved in making a book; from the acquisition, to artwork, to printing and publicity. A book to inspire curiosity about the number of people and processes involved in making an everyday object. Great to use alongside a book making project, careers work and exploring the world around us.

DISCOVERY

"How to Make a Book"

By Becky Davies & Patricia Hu

Key Stage 2

An enthralling tale of dark magic, myth and adventure. Isabella and the Isle of Joya will stay with you long after you have finished the last page. The world built by Kiran Millwood Hargrave is so rich and full; the characters nuanced and fascinating yet it is the fast-paced action that really keeps you reading. For lovers of mystery, exploration and bravery.

DISCOVERY

"The Girl of Ink and Stars"

By Kiran Millwood Hargrave

Key Stage 2

Part poem, part sketchbook, part story; this is a warm-hearted book from established author Michael Morpurgo. It follows Pippa through a day, as she stays in the country with her Aunty Peggy. We encounter wildlife, people and places; all complimented by poems from a selection of authors. A really, rich reading experience to share with a class community.

DISCOVERY

"Where My Wellies Take Me"

By Clare & Michael Morpurgo

Key Stage 2

A beautifully illustrated mythological non-fiction book that explores and explains the world and behaviour of dragons. This book reveals everything you need to know about observing and communicating with dragons. The illustrations are detailed and engaging but the text is the real star of the show. Everyone will enjoy this book.

OUT OF THIS WORLD

"The Secret Lives of Dragons"

By Prof Zoya Agnis & Alexander Utkin

Key Stage 2

Set in a world of magic, dragons and spells our story starts with a boy in disgrace. Patch Brightwater has been thrown in jail for casting a forbidden spell but he realises a greater danger is about to befall them all. With the help of his friends, both human and otherwise, he sets out to prevent disaster. A classic fantasy adventure story.

OUT OF THIS WORLD

"A Darkness of Dragons"

By S A Patrick

Key Stage 2

A groundbreaking illustrated encyclopaedia of Greek mythology that brings an ancient subject to life. A selection of Olympians, gods, goddesses, heroes, mortals and monsters. Each double page spread vividly lays out a detailed exploration of each subject. A book to read over a few sittings and enjoy over multiple reading sessions.

OUT OF THIS WORLD

"Mythologica"

By Steve Kershaw & Victoria Topping

Key Stage 2

Travelling back to the time of the Vikings, we follow Arthur as he finds the courage to defend his village and defeat the mighty beast Fenrir. Part picture book, part comic book with perfect illustrations by Joe Todd Stanton. A great way to enrich Viking work or to revisit a favourite subject. A quicker read for when time is short but it will quickly become an often requested book.

OUT OF THIS WORLD

"Arthur and the Golden Rope"

By Joe Todd-Stanton

Key Stage 2

A twisted version of the classic fairy tale by children’s laureate Joseph Coehlo. Beginning with the death of Cinderella, she is granted three nights by the Shadow of Death to seek revenge on her cruel sisters. A haunting and humorous tale, that is just dark enough. An enjoyable way to freshen up a familiar story for older children.

JUST FOR FUN

"Zombierella"

By Joseph Coelho

Key Stage 2

A hilarious, laugh out loud story about a biscuit factory that might be a portal to another dimension. Haddie is on a mission to prove that the local factory is a super secret science lab and the cause of the arrival of orange monsters about to send the world kablooey! Great fun; a story that will have a class desperate to hear more.

JUST FOR FUN

"The Unbelievable Biscuit Factory"

By James Harris

Key Stage 2

The first of a series that features Lin, the cutest Panda in the world. She is so adorable that she is shipped to the nearest zoo, leaving her brother behind, to be ogled at by the public. She decides to become the worst panda ever in an effort to change her destiny. Everyone will love Bad Panda and will be following her every step of the day.

JUST FOR FUN

"Bad Panda"

By Swapna Haddow & Sheena Dempsey

Key Stage 2

An absolutely glorious story about a boy who starts to count and simply can’t stop. Brandon often shows off and he is challenged to count to ten million; from there all kinds of surprising things start to happen. An interesting idea that is a great, enjoyable read.

JUST FOR FUN

"Count"

By Melvin Burgess

Key Stage 2

A treat for fans of folklore and the beautiful illustration of Jon Klassen. Based on a Tyrolean folk tale but adapted for a modern audience. A brave girl named Ottila has escaped from terrible danger and after finding herself lost in the cold, dark forest she reaches a house inhabited by a talking skull. The tale is dark and spare but also charming and surprising. A great read for a dark afternoon.

SPOTLIGHT ILLUSTRATOR

"The Skull"

By Jon Klassen

Key Stage 2

A moving story of the love and connection between a boy and his pet. When Peter has to move to his grandfather’s house due to the war he has to leave Pax behind but after one night he sneaks out: determined to find his beloved friend. A profound story in the line of Charlotte’s Web and Watership Down. an emotional read that will really provoke an emotional response in the reader.

SPOTLIGHT ILLUSTRATOR

"Pax"

By Sara Pennypacker & Jon Klassen

Key Stage 2

The glorious combination of Lemony Snicket and Jon Klassen creates a picture book of emotional depth and humour. Lazlo is afraid of the dark but it usually stays in the basement; until one night it visits him in his room. A satisfying ending to a story with sparse poetic language and almost film like illustrations. It should become a firm favourite.

SPOTLIGHT ILLUSTRATOR

"The Dark"

By Lemony Snicket & Jon Klassen

Key Stage 2

This picture book tells the story of Annabelle who discovers a box of yarn on a grey, dull day. She first knits herself a jumper but finds a multitude of uses for the ‘leftover’ yarn. An allegory for the never ending nature of love and giving and the way it can change a culture and a community. A thought-provoking story with beautiful illustrations and a warm-hearted centre.

SPOTLIGHT ILLUSTRATOR

"Extra Yarn"

By Mac Barnett & Jon Klassen

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