Lisa Williamson’s The Summer After the Night Before YA Book Review

Posted on November 10, 2026 by alibrarylady

Award winning author Lisa Williamson’s latest YA novel, The Summer After the Night Before, focuses on a group of teenagers during the long summer after their GSCE exams and explores complex themes of sexual consent, loyalty, friendship and truth in a powerful yet engaging narrative. The story is told by sixteen year olds, Molly, Rhiannon and Ben and their three distinct voices provide the emotional pull to this challenging yet sensitive story.

Cover design by Michelle Brackenborough

Study leave has begun and the band of friends are celebrating with a house party; Molly outgoing, popular and attractive is enthusiastic and excited, Rhiannon her more reserved friend is less sure and would prefer a quiet night with her best friends meanwhile her twin brother Ben, awkward and a little unsure of himself has been in love with Molly since he was in eleven even though she only views him as a friend. A light-hearted opening as these three prepare for the evening with friendly banter and happiness provides the reader with the different perspectives of each of them and is instantly engaging. However as the party progresses heavy drinking affects their behaviour and Molly and Ben share a drunken kiss. The following morning Molly wakes up in Ben’s bed with virtually no memory of events since their return home. The long carefree summer the friends anticipated is now replaced with tension, evasion and lies, fractured friendships and torn loyalties.

The three person narrative is skilfully used by Williamson to bring each character’s personality, emotions and attitudes to life for the reader. We see not only how each person thinks but also how each friend views the others providing an insight into their behaviour. Molly is undoubtedly popular; friendly, outgoing and a natural people pleaser she is also a bit of a flirt something that irritates her more reserved friend Rhiannon. Rhiannon in turn appears to her friends to be serious, perhaps a little negative at times, but when we read the sections told from her perspective her insecurities are more apparent providing a reason for her comments. Ben meanwhile is a little harder to read, in many ways a typical 16 year old boy hiding his emotions. As the story develops things become darker and the differing viewpoints ensure that as a reader we can explore the motivations and reactions of the three teens as they and their friends attempt to deal with the fall out from the party. It becomes clear that the actions taken and decisions made on that night will have far reaching consequences.

Despite the difficult subject matter this is an extremely readable book and each character, both the teens and their parents, have an authentic feel. Rhiannon and Ben’s well meaning mum with her laminated revision timetables, Molly’s dad struggling to cope following her mum’s walk out the year before plus the other teens in the friendship group, Liv and Theo, Georgie and Cal, are all well drawn people. Teens reading this will, I think, recognise each of them.

The conclusion of the story is not a neat happy ending but this too reflects real life. This would be a good starting point for discussion as it conveys extremely well the complexities of life and emotions and may encourage young adults to have conversations about the important issues raised. The subject is both topical and important and can be a difficult one for adults to broach with teens so this book could enable conversations. Lisa Williamson has written books for both middle grade and teen audiences and The Summer After the Night Before is definitely more suitable for a YA readership. However it has recently been nominated for the Carnegie Award for Writing for Children and Young People which will have the effect of raising its profile across a wide age range. Wearing my school librarian hat I should mention that the book depicts many of its characters embarking on sexual relationships and participating in under-age heavy drinking something that needs bearing in mind when recommending the book to pupils with a range of cultural and religious backgrounds. At the end of the book a list of organisations offering advice and support to victims of abuse is provided.

The Summer After the Night Before was published in May of this year by David Fickling Books and I would like to thank the publisher and Dannie Price for providing my review copy.

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Goodnight Silver by Abi Elphinstone illustrated by Olivia Lomenech Gill

Posted on October 26, 2026 by alibrarylady

Recent research has added to the belief that reading can help children and young people understand their emotions better and navigate any challenges that they may face. Since I read Abi Elphinstone’s debut, The Dreamsnatcher, ten years ago I have been struck by how well she incorporates this important aspect in her stories of magic and adventure. Awe and wonder, hope and faith are emotions many would agree have a positive impact and should be nurtured in our young readers. Goodnight Silver successfully combines a thrilling, magical adventure with a kindly encouragement to children to be courageous and optimistic even when life appears difficult or sad.

Emmy is a pessimist. She doesn’t believe in magic or miracles as her recent experience has shown her that looking forward to something with anticipation and love does not always guarantee that things will end well. She and her parents have travelled to the mountains of Mongolia on a much needed family holiday. Her parents are full of excited anticipation but Emmy is worried and anxious that things may go wrong. Emmy’s fears are fulfilled when she is separated from her parents in a blizzard and she is forced to take shelter in a cave. It is in this cave that an unexpected encounter starts to change the frightened girl’s attitude. There is another who has hidden there and from the darkness a lost snow leopard cub emerges who is drawn to Emmy and she in turn is reassured by the beautiful animal’s presence. She resolves to help him and maybe even find his mother. Then when the two of them emerge they meet a boy in the woods named Tuli who is bursting with joy, optimism and hope. Although initially overwhelmed by his exuberance Emmy gradually and tentatively allows herself to hope a little too. This lovely trio then embark on a quest to find a secret land named Whisperfell where the animals live in peace. But danger lurks nearby in the shape of a hunter who is closing in on his prey.

Abi Elphinstone’s own love of nature shines through her writing and this story conveys the drama and majesty of part of the natural world she herself knows well. For her readers this offers the opportunity to experience the drama and beauty of it through the eyes of Emmy and Tuli. The adventure flows naturally with episodes of drama interspersed with thoughtful passages about the importance of family and friendship. The reason for Emmy’s own worry and sadness is poignantly expressed but not dwelt on, allowing children just enough of a glimpse of personal grief to be able to understand her character a little better. The magic and danger of the quest will grip young readers and there are moments of great tension building to a satisfying and uplifting climax. Personally I do love the way in which Abi makes even an adult reading her stories believe in magic! This is joyful book full of love for our natural world but with a focus on enjoyment and nurturing rather than a fear of loss and destruction. Both Emmy and Tuli are characters who one grows to care for and as I said at the start of this review will help youngsters understand both others and themselves a little better.

Goodnight Silver is a magical adventure that will transport its readers to a world they may well want to visit too. The finished copy will be fully illustrated by Olivia Lomenech Gill and the sneak preview of one or two in my proof plus the stunning cover suggest this will be a beautiful book. Published on 27th October by Simon and Schuster Children’s Books. I would like to thank Ellie Curtis for kindly providing my proof copy.

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The Best New Information Books for Children

Posted on October 3, 2026 by alibrarylady

Are you looking for information books to inspire youngsters? This trio of new titles may be just what you need.

Myths and Legends : THE HEROES GODS and MONSTERS who SHAPED OUR HISTORY written by Frances Durkin Illustrated by Nur Ventura

Cover of the book 'Myths and Legends' by Frances Durkin, illustrated by Nur Ventura, featuring various mythical creatures and characters against a colorful background.

Frances Durkin and Nur Ventura know how to balance reader appeal and engagement with learning in the books on which they collaborate and this new book by the duo is another excellent example of their successful approach. In Myths and Legends readers are introduced to incredible stories from all the world that tell us about terrifying creatures, controlling the weather and creating countries. Children are often fascinated by myths and legends from ancient times up to today and this book accompanies the reader from Anubis of Ancient Egypt up to Bigfoot in the USA and Canada of the 1950s. Among the twenty stories featured are the more familiar such as Isis, Zeus, Heracles, Loki and Dracula but also some that children may not have learned about such as Grandmother Mago, a Korean creation myth or Nanny of the Maroons, a Jamaican rebel legend. This variety adds to both the enjoyment and the learning for youngsters and adults alike making this a good book to share.

Perhaps the most striking feature of Myths and Legends is the inclusion of creative activities and science experiments which bring many of these stories to life for young learners. For example after reading about the double page spead about the story of Anubis and its cultural links a small text box directs the reader to the linked activity in the second section of the book where you can learn how to mummify a piece of fruit. The story’s practical suggestion is cleverly linked to the myth each time such as designing a coat of arms for the Lancelot story of making a minature rock garden for the Grandmother Mago story. This is an inspired way in which to involve children in the myths and legends they have just learned about and increases the relevance of them to today’s world.

The presentation of the book is excellent, marrying the informative text with vibrant illusrations which increases appeal and engagement. There is also a comprehensive and well executed glossary including specific vocabulary such as ‘Aaru: the place where good souls go in the ancient Egyptian afterlife‘, and more general such as ‘Fearsome: very, very frightening!’ A wonderful information book with a broad appeal Myths and Legends is published on 3rd September by b small publishers aimed at readers of approxitely 8+ and I would like to thank Sam Hutchinson for my review copy.

How To Understand & Apply AI! by Sam Hutchinson and Ste Johnson

Book cover titled 'How to Understand & Apply AI!' aimed at kids, featuring illustrations of a robot and children engaging with technology and learning about artificial intelligence.

Almost everyday one reads a new article about AI, its use and misuse, the pros and cons of the world of artificial intelligence and how to cope with its impact. It can be bewildering for adults so how can children learn about and understand this new machine? B Small publishing have an excellent series of book on Learning Skills and the latest title in this collection is a perfect toolkit for children navigating the world of AI. The information is conveyed in clear and simple language with the use of text boxes, charts and graphs ensuring that facts are presented in a readily accessible manner. Colourful and well designed this book has an instant appeal and is less intimidating than full pages of text.

The content of How to Understand and Apply AI! is also carefully conveyed with the first double page spread asking, What is AI? and describing both the good and bad aspects of artificial intelligence. The following pages are all tagged with ‘AI in the World’, ‘How AI Works’ or ‘Types of AI‘ making the book easier to navigate. For example under the tag ‘AI in the World’ are examples such as pedestrian crossing sensors, and AI uses in history by people such as Alan Turing. How AI Works looks at facial recognition technology, the necessary inputs to enable the machine to make decisions, and how it organises information. Definitions of specific vocabulary are included throughout and there is also a helpful glossary at the end of the book. Children will also learn about bias, how to spot fake news and understand more about AI’s impact on us all. The content has been checked by an AI consultant, George Walkley, which ensures that this informative and reliable book is an excellent starting point for children who are beginning to learn about the subject. This would be an excellent reference book for KS2 school libraries and classrooms and is a useful guide for adults too! Published on 1st October and I would like to thank b small publishers and Sam Hutchinson for providing my review copy.

Scientists Making a Difference: 47 Inspirational Scientists Changing the World and How You Can Join Them by Dr Shini Somara illustrated by Manuel Sumberac and Adam Allsuch Boardman

A colorful book cover titled 'Scientists Making a Difference' by Dr. Shini Somara, featuring illustrations of various scientists, scientific tools, and elements of science against a vibrant red background.

This collaboration between award winning engineer Dr Shini Somara, Imperial College London and The Gatsby Charitable Foundation hopes to inspire young people to become involved in the broad field of science in some way. Each of the scientists included are working on projects that will benefit us all and the different specialisms they represent range from AI and astrophysics to neuroscientists and zoologists. Presented in an interview format which ensures a more personal approach to the subject readers will learn not only about the individual’s achievements and motivation but also their route into scientific employment. The book answers questions about why these professors, entrepreneurs, technicians and apprentices do what they do and helps children think about the questions they would like to ask of them and about their own futures. The range of people included should ensure that youngsters reading can find someone with whom they can relate and maybe be inspired by. The scientists include people like Jenny Linden who is tracking wild African dogs to help protect them from climate change, Dr Luke Allsopp who is working to understand how bacteria causes infections in people with Cystic Fibrosis and trying to improve treatments and Professor Eleanor Dommett who is researching ADHD in the hope to make education more accessible and helpful for everyone. This is just a brief taste of the different areas explored and the wide ranging subject matter is impressive.

The Gatsby Charitable Foundation, set up by Lord Sainsbury is working to strengthen STEM education in secondary schools and also help build the UK’s future technical workforce. They have generously arranged for every state secondary school to receive two free copies of the book as part of a kit that includes a teachers guide suitable for KS3/KS4, a timeline and 12 posters covering topics from the book. The topics explored in Scientists Making a Difference include: Decoding Data, Understanding the Brain, Nurturing Nature, Generating Clean Energy and Feeding the Future.

This is another high quality title from What On Earth Books, well presented, packed with information and with QR codes throughout the book which will take you to videos where you can meet the scientists and learn more about their work. I should like to thank the publishers and Laura Smythe for providing my review copy.

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Pick of the New Fiction for Children of All Ages

Posted on September 30, 2026 by alibrarylady

How Not To Be A Pirate: The Trouble with Curses by Jenny Pearson illustrated by Paula Bowles

Jenny Pearson has already amassed a large fan club due to her skill at balancing humour and gentle understanding in her novels for children. How Not To Be A Pirate is slightly shorter than some of her previous books and is also fully illustrated in dual colour by Paula Bowles and is therefore suitable for a slightly younger audience. It does however bear her trademark stamp of life lessons cunningly disguised as slapstick fun. The first in a new series introduces us to the likeable Wilbur. Wilbur is learning to be a pirate and along with his new shipmates, Ellie and Gilbert, is attempting to pass his Level One Pirate Grading. Unfortunately Wilbur is not ideal pirate material; he hates heights, is constantly seasick and is too scared to fire a cannon. He would much rather be busy in the kitchen creating culinary delights. However he finds himself in a race to find one of the legendary Hag Stone. The new friends face one disaster after another and danger is never far away. Readers will quickly empathise with the three would be pirates. Ellie is small but determined, oozing the self-confidence that Wilbur lacks but keeping a family secret from her new friends.

Funny, exciting and with a gentle thread of wisdom regarding self-belief, finding courage when needed and being true to yourself this visually appealing book has much to commend it to readers of about 8+. It is also set up nicely for readers to move on to the second book in the series, The Trouble With Monsters, due out early next year. Published by Usborne Books on 13th August who I would like to thank for my review copy.

Front Foot by Tom Palmer illustrated by Robin Boyden

This sporting series published by Barrington Stoke got off to a successful start with The Fear in which we met young Afghan refugee Azeem as he learned to overcome his anxiety and enjoy playing football once again. In this second book, Front Foot, the sport featured is cricket but once more Tom Palmer incorporates themes of community and family within the action. Azeem’s dad is a passionate cricket fan and dreams that one day his son will play cricket in England wearing the traditional cricket whites. However Azeem’s friends are all much more enthusiastic about football. Trying to persuade his friends to adopt cricket as a pastime and teaching them how to play is a welcome distraction for Azeem as he and his father anxiously await news of Azeem’s mum and little sister. They are both in a refugee camp and Azeem’s father is trying to hasten their journey on to England to join them.

When Azeem is playing with his friends he notices a group of older boys in the park watching and rather than be intimidated by their appearance Azeem tries a more friendly approach and invites them to play with him and his best friends. Quickly the boys become a team and even acquire a coach so Azeem’s chance to play a proper game of cricket is starting to become a possibility. Azeem’s positivity and attitude provide a welcome role model for youngsters and this is a thought provoking story. At under 70 pages Tom Palmer manages to pack a lot in to this empathetic story and Robin Boyden’s illustrations throughout increase the appeal to less committed readers. Published on 10th September for readers aged 9+ with a reading age of 7 this would be a useful addition to primary school libraries. I would like to thank Barrington Stoke and Poppy McLean for my review copy.

Cleopatra’s Amulet by Lindsay Galvin

The previous books by Lindsay Galvin have in the main had events in British History as their focus. In her latest book she has transported her readers to Ancient Egypt and it proves to be an excellent setting for this author’s winning combination of factual history and myth. The story centres around the twelve year old Princess Cleopatra in the aftermath of the kidnap of her father, the Pharoah Ptolemy XII. Alongside her elder sister, Berenike, she is forced into exile and journeys along the Nile to the mysterious pyramids with her faithful cat by her side. The reader is swiftly immersed into the pampered life of Cleopatra’s family and the world of the people of Alexandria and the ensuing adventure will enthral youngsters with its tension and sinister mystery. Cleopatra and her new friend, the Roman scribe Fabius face great danger including crocodile infested waters and the shadowy tunnels of the pyramids themselves.

With thoroughly researched historical detail and the incorporation of myth and legend Cleopatra’s Amulet has much to commend it as a classroom read but children will enjoy both the adventure and the relatable characters of Cleopatra and Fabius for its own sake. The build up of suspense and the subtle clues for children to spot will motivate children to read on and the relatively short chapters also help for those who are building reading stamina. At the end of the book Lindsay Galvin has included some interesting facts about Ancient Egypt, the gods and customs of the time plus a description of the preparation for the after life which is not suitable for the squeamish! Published by Chicken House on 10th September and I would like to thank the publishers and Laura Smythe for my review copy.

Then We’ll Be Happy by Alan Carrigan

Inspired by his own experience of having cerebral palsy Alan Carrigan has written the kind of book he needed as a teenager but was unable to find. Witty, moving and enlightening Then We’ll Be Happy is a powerful coming of age novel with an important message about the realities of living with a disability. It tells the story of seventeen year old Sam who despite having cerebral palsy wants to control his own like. When he discovers, at the very last minute, that he will be unable to go on a school trip as he will be unable to access the bus taking the pupils and will have to spend the day with the class bully instead his patience runs out. He starts a campaign for an accessible bus however events then spiral and Sam finds himself in situations that are entirely new to him. Through his efforts to bring a wider awareness to the needs of those with disabilities he forges new and deeper friendships and tackles new experiences. The narrative voice of Sam is hugely affecting and brings home the many issues he faces and the frustrations and concerns that are part of his daily life. But this is never a gloomy read but instead captures and conveys the cheeky and likeable character of Sam and his irrepressible humour and lack of self pity.

Through the narrative Alan Carrigan explores both the complexities of finding independence as a young person with a disability and the impact of others’ expectations and perceptions. The overall tone is light hearted yet there are poignant moments and the role of Sam’s mum as his carer is depicted with understanding. There is wit and wisdom throughout this affecting novel and the information conveyed, on both social and medical aspects, in Then We’ll Be Happy will valuable for both the disabled and non-disabled. Enjoyable and informative this will be an excellent read for youngsters aged 14+. Published by Chicken House on 13th August and I should like to thank Laura Smythe for my review copy.

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Kitty and Mary: The Forgotten Bennet Sisters by Julia Gray and Imogen Russell Williams

Posted on September 14, 2026 by alibrarylady

Last year saw celebrations to mark 250 years since the birth of one of England’s most beloved authors, Jane Austen. In addition to events around the country the BBC showed a new drama Miss Austen, based on the novelist’s sister Cassandra. Despite my best intentions my personal attempt to pay homage to this important author was delayed until this year when I happily participated in a re-read of Pride and Prejudice alongside two librarian friends. This was an enjoyable and in some ways surprising experience. There were aspects of the novel that I had forgotten and I do think my memories had been affected by film adaptations that I had seen in the interim. I delighted in meeting Lizzie again and her close bond with her sister Jane was as I remembered it. The other Bennet girls were vague in my memory despite the Lydia and Wickham storyline. My re-read reminded me once more of the quiet and bookish Mary, a character who is rather neglected in Austen’s writing and Kitty is little more than a name mentioned alongside the wilful Lydia.

Then one of those happy coincidences occurred. I was contacted by Jade from Andersen Press and asked if I would be interested in a proof copy of Kitty and Mary: The Forgotten Bennet Sisters written by Julia Gray and Imogen Russell Williams, two writers whose work I admire. How could I possibly resist! The timing was perfect and I am grateful to have been provided with the opportunity of reading this delightful book. Somehow these two writers together have conjured up an enjoyable and engrossing story that captures the wit and social awareness of Austen’s original. Kitty and Mary begins six months after Pride and Prejudice’s ending and Elizabeth is married to Mr Darcy, Jane is married to Mr Bingley and Lydia is married to Wickham. Meanwhile Mary is stuck at home at Longbourn with her parents, subjected to her mother’s caustic tongue and criticisms and is constantly at her beck and call. Kitty meanwhile is flitting between her two sisters’ estates searching for a suitable husband at local balls and dinners. When Mary is offered the chance of escape, even though it entails an arduous sea voyage to India, she is determined to seize this opportunity.

The ensuing narrative is told through the two sisters’ journal entries and letters they write to each other saved until they are able to each read them. In this way the reader experiences the gradual development of both young women as they learn what is most important to them and discover that happiness is achieved by being true to oneself. It is Mary who is perhaps the more surprising character as her reserve in Pride and Prejudice almost made her appear a little severe. Her journey to India enables her to gain an independence denied her at home and her experiences and new found friendships allow Mary to truly blossom. I found this aspect of the novel particularly appealing and delighted in Mary’s new found enthusiasm for life and how she overcame her previous awkwardness and shyness. Mary’s departure means that the lively Kitty is required to return to Longbourn to support her mother, a suffering made a little more bearable by the arrival of a handsome, eligible bachelor at a neighbouring estate.

Despite the differences in their personalities the bond between the two sisters is apparent and it is clear that Kitty misses her sister’s wise counsel as she deliberates on her budding romance with the handsome poet, Mr Whittaker. Mary also confides in her sister over matters that are causing her hurt and worry and the respect each sister feels for the other is touching. Through this sharing of innermost thoughts, concerns and worries the characters of Mary and Kitty are brought to life for the reader and the two young women become well rounded, believable and, cleverly, still feel true to the original girls depicted in the original novel.

The research and historical detail adds considerable depth to the storyline and I would be fascinated to know how the two authors worked on this dual narrative so successfully. This delightful novel is a real treat for those who have loved Pride and Prejudice yet would also be an enjoyable and engrossing read for those new to these characters. Kitty and Mary is a delightful read and will have appeal to teen readers who enjoy both historical fiction and romance. Suitable for readers aged 14+, published on 10th September and highly recommended. I am most grateful to Jade at Andersen Press for providing my proof copy.

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Findings of the First Reflecting Disability Study on Children’s Literature

Posted on September 11, 2026 by alibrarylady

Today, 11th September, Reflecting Disability announces the long-awaited results of its study into the representation of disabled people in children’s books. It is the first project of its kind to offer a comprehensive and robust exploration of the extent and quality of disabled characters in picture books, fiction and non fiction across a full year (2024) of UK children’s publishing for 3-11 year olds. This study was funded by Arts Council England and analysis carried out by The Reading Agency shows that 10% of children’s books feature disabled people in some way. 

“This research provides the children’s publishing sector with an important evidence base. While it is encouraging to see many positive representations, the findings also highlight significant opportunities for publishers, authors, and illustrators to ensure that more children can see themselves, their families and their communities reflected in the stories they read. We look forward to seeing the sector build on this work and use the forthcoming toolkit to support even more inclusive and representative children’s literature.” Julia Kingsford, Director of Literature and the South West, Arts Council England 

With 90% of children’s books not yet featuring disabled people in any way, the findings highlight valuable opportunities for publishers and creators to build on the promising initial picture. The study also found that books rarely reflected the specific conditions, impairments and differences that children most commonly experience (social/behavioural, learning and mental health). Books depicted characters with mobility conditions (for example, wheelchair users), deaf characters and those with vision impairments more often but usually placed them in the background. Many representations of disabled people and the equipment they use also lacked accuracy and/or consistency.

“For true inclusion we need to go beyond representation. The stories that were truly nuanced, where the disabled characters came across as fully rounded people, were a joy to read. But there were a frustrating number of books where a small tweak, or just asking the right questions at the development stage, could have completely transformed the representation and made it more authentic. I would urge publishers and creators to consider the whole context of a disabled person’s life and convey that through nuance rather than didacticism. To show rather than tell.” Beth Cox, Creative Editorial Inclusion Consultant and Reflecting Disability Co-Facilitator

The study also analysed potential barriers to reading, including inaccessible design and layout, hard to read text and language that makes the book unnecessarily hard to understand – 67% of books reviewed had at least one barrier to reading. This is a significant gap that leaves many disabled people, including children and the adults reading to them, struggling to access books that reflect their own experiences.

“Over two thirds of the books reviewed had at least one barrier to reading. While we need more books in different formats (like audio, digital and braille), we also really need all books to build in basic accessibility from the start. Things like layout, font, visual clutter and the relationship between words and pictures can have a huge impact on how easily a child can access and enjoy books. And what makes a book more accessible for disabled children often makes it better for everyone.” Alex Strick, Author and Reflecting Disability Co-facilitator

Facilitated by Beth Cox and Alexandra Strick, Reflecting Disability was developed through a disabled-led process. It was guided by a Steering Group of authors, illustrators and experts and alongside advice and guidance from The Centre for Literacy in Primary Education (CLPE) who have carried out the Reflecting Realities research since 2017. The Steering Group researched and agreed category labels to describe d/Deaf, disabled and neurodivergent characters in children’s books, with the aim of allowing comparative analysis against UK population statistics.

Reflecting Disability will launch a toolkit later this year which will provide in-depth analysis of the quantitative and qualitative data and, most importantly, practical guidance to support publishers and creators.

If you would like to view the Reflecting Disability announcement of findings in full please visit the offficial website here 

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A guest post by Hannah Rix co-founder of Little Reads

Posted on September 10, 2026 by alibrarylady

Today I am delighted to welcome Hannah Rix to my blog. In these first few weeks of the school year the focus for everyone is initially on settling in and ensuring children feel happy and secure. We also aim to start with positivity and enthusiasm regarding teaching and learning. The subject of Hannah’s guest post is one that was important to me as a school librarian and continues to be so as part of my book recommendations and themed lists. The balance in schools between learning to read and learning to become a reader is an important and potentially tricky aspect of the curriculum. I hope you find Hannah’s thoughtful article both interesting and helpful.

Screenshot from Little Reads App picture credit Hannah Rix

Why loving reading and learning to read are two different things

Written by Hannah Rix, co-founder of Little Reads.

If you asked me when I became a reader, I couldn’t tell you exactly when it happened. It was far later than you’d think, and it nearly didn’t happen at all.


But the reading itself? That I remember.

Mum and dad reading We’re Going on a Bear Hunt and The Tiger Who Came to Tea. A bedroom bookshelf that never seemed to empty. The stack of Judy Moody books my mum handed me, and tearing through the lot (then Jacqueline Wilson, then Harry Potter, then everything).

None of it felt like learning. Which is probably strange because it was genuinely hard for me.

I struggled with reading as a child. I dreaded reading aloud, and it always felt like I needed to try that bit harder than my friends. And I doubt anyone would have guessed I’d end up an English teacher, least of all me. (Reading aloud never did come naturally either… even as a qualified teacher I’d practise reciting chapters and poems ahead of time before reading them to my class. Storytelling is a skill all of its own.)

What got me to being a ‘reader’ had absolutely nothing to do with schemes or levels. It was a mum who read everything (so much so that our loft ceiling once fell through under the weight of the books she couldn’t bear to part with) and hours spent talking to her about the books she had read, was reading or would like to read. That was powerful. The love came first. The skill limped along behind.

Then I spent ten years as an English teacher assuming the two came as a package. Turns out I was wrong.

Think about how we ask after a child’s reading. At parents’ evening it’s how are they getting on. In the book bag it’s a reading record waiting for a signature. On the report it’s a band and a target. It all boils down to one question. Can they turn the letters into words? But there’s a second question hiding underneath, and it hardly ever gets asked. Do they love it?

Learning to read is a skill. Decoding, analysing, comprehending. It can be taught, tested, tracked and levelled. Schools are good at it because they have to be.

Loving reading is a relationship. You aren’t thinking about decoding, you’re too busy being somewhere else. And you can’t put that on a tracker.

I’ve taught children who could read anything you put in front of them and wouldn’t dream of opening a book for fun. And children who found the words a genuine slog but loved stories with their whole hearts.

The trouble starts when the machinery built for the skill gets pointed at the love.

Read for twenty minutes because it brings your reading age up. Put that one back, it’s not your level. Finish the chapter, there’s a comprehension sheet coming. All perfectly well meant, and none of it anyone’s fault (teachers are beholden to the curriculum, and we all know how hard they work). But bit by bit a child learns that reading is a job with a target attached. And the love can’t survive that for long.

We’d spend a term on books the kids loved (The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, Wonder, Harry Potter) and they’d light up at Christopher’s swearing or Auggie’s bravery. Then we’d rush the ending because an assessment point was looming. All the love squeezed out by the clock.

I also saw what happens when you switch it all off. At the complex needs school where I spent three years as English Lead, reading had nothing to do with exams or levels. For many pupils it meant being able to communicate and take part. They chose what they fancied, not what came next on a band.

One pupil couldn’t hold a book herself but was reading well above her age, and I just knew she’d love the sass of Tracy Beaker. Cue our Wednesday afternoons becoming a tour of Jacqueline Wilson’s entire catalogue. No tracker. No target. Just a girl and stories she grew to love.

Which brings me to librarians, who’ve always understood this better than most. A library doesn’t ask a child what level they’re on before it lets them in. It just says, here are the books, which one do you fancy?

Browsing is how a reader finds their thing. Mine is people (I’ll happily read a book that goes nowhere if I get to set up camp inside a character’s head). My own school librarian (shout out Miss Lawrence) always had time to pair you with a great book. Never judgemental. Nobody keeping score. That’s where loving to read really starts to grow legs.

It’s a big part of why I built Little Reads. I wanted somewhere that treats loving reading as the reason, not a by-product of a lesson. A library of 3,000+ books I’ve hand-picked for ages 5 to 11, with no quizzes and nobody marking progress. No ads either. Just the books.

Hannah Rix

One honest note, because your readers know children at every stage. Little Reads is built for children who already love reading. If a child is still finding their feet with the words themselves, an app made for teaching that skill will serve them better. This one is for the ones who’ve already fallen in love and want a few more pages to turn.

If you asked me when I became a reader, I couldn’t tell you exactly when it happened. It was far later than you’d think, and it nearly didn’t happen at all.

I still couldn’t tell you when I became a reader. But I know it wasn’t a level going up. It was Judy Moody, a full bookshelf, and someone who never once asked what page I was on.

Teaching a child to read is one of the most important jobs there is. But loving reading is a separate gift, and it needs looking after in its own right. So next time someone asks whether a child can read, maybe ask the second question too. Do they love it? (And maybe keep an eye on the loft.)

Hannah Rix is a former English teacher and the co-founder of Little Reads, a curated library of 3,000+ hand-picked children’s books for ages 5 to 11. You can find it at readingmate.co.uk/littlereads

P.S. A Library Lady readers can get 30 days free with the code LIBLADY30.

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Top New Children’s Books for Summer Reads

Posted on August 6, 2026 by alibrarylady

Real life has rather got in the way of both reading and reviewing over the last month or so however I wanted to share some new books that I have particularly enjoyed and would like to recommend. Four very different books for quite a wide range of tastes and ages have made up my recent reading. Do you know a young person who is looking for that perfect summer holiday read? I do hope that one of the books included here will be the ‘right book’ for the young readers in your life.

Help! Aliens Stole My Grandad by Hannah Moffatt Illustrated by Rory Walker – a winning combination of comedy and emotional understanding.

Extremely silly, action packed, told in short chapters and festooned with quirky illustrations Help! Aliens Stole My Grandad is perfectly designed to appeal to young readers of about 7+. However adults with responsibility for choosing reading matter for children will also approve of its thoughtful approach to the subject of grief, loss and the bond between child and grandparent. This is a winning combination of comedy and emotional understanding.

Harrison’s family are preparing to fulfil his Grandad’s last wish by firing his ashes into space on a firework. Unfortunately things do not quite go to plan and the following night after Grandad’s firework has gone astray Harrison meets an alien pirate crew at his bedroom window. They are demanding answers from the Earthling Prime Minister. Somewhat foolishly Harrison tells them he is who they are looking for! The ensuing adventure takes Harrison on a trip to outer space where he meets a would-be young pirate named Red who accompanies him on his search for the pirates’ missing lucky pink parrot. What could possibly go wrong? Well, quite a lot! Featuring a moon made of cheese, cows that make milk shake, ferocious pirates and a magic pirate hat this jolly tale zips along at quite a pace. The witty dialogue, puns, and traditional pirate catch phrases would make this a great book to read aloud, especially for an adult who enjoys ‘doing the voices’. Great fun but also with a kind incorporation of emotional themes such as friendship, bravery and grief this would be an excellent addition to primary school libraries. Published on 28th May by Everything With Words I should like to thank Mikka Haugaard for my review copy. There are also some excellent teaching resources available on the Hannah Moffatt’s website here.

Cat School: Odd Cat Out by Rose Robbins – balances themes of overcoming school anxiety and adopting a welcoming and inclusive attitude to others with fun and kind friendship

The first in a new graphic novel trilogy featuring kittens Tangle and Eno and their new neurodivergent friend Pelly this accessible story deals with many elements with which young readers will empathise. The kittens are leaning how to tackle new experiences, emotions including anxiety and forging friendships. The plot explores the difficulties some have with change of any sort and Pelly in particular finds it tricky to fit in at her new school feeling alienated and deciding to stay at home instead. She is convinced that she has to hide her true self in order to be accepted by the others and does not know how to go about it. Through the efforts made by her new friends she realises that she is fine just the way she is and is eventually persuaded to return. The illustrative style is jolly with an appeal to youngsters and much detail to explore and there is gentle humour too. Cat School: Odd Cat Out balances themes of overcoming school anxiety and adopting a welcoming and inclusive attitude to others with fun and kind friendship. In addition to being a book many children will enjoy reading for its own sake this would a good title to have available for those children who are struggling to overcome school anxiety and a useful prompt for class discussion on this topic too. Published by Scallywag Press on 6th August and I should like to thank Laura Smythe and the publishers for my review copy.

When Skeletons Rise by Coral Rumble illustrated by Katie Murphy – accessible and engaging but displaying considerable depth and insight.

Coral Rumble’s first prose novel for children, Jakub’s Otter was a beautiful story that featured in my favourite books of 2024. It was always, for me at least, going to be a hard act to follow. Happily her follow up displays once more the tender, wise understanding that endeared me to Jakub’s story. Books written for children encompass many aspects of life but key to their success with their target audience is, I believe, characters with whom children can relate. In When Skeletons Rise Coral Rumble has created in eleven year old Arlo a boy who conveys the complexity of youngsters at this pivotal stage of their lives. Arlo is dealing with big issues but at the same time all the everyday occurrences common at this age such as making friends and navigating a home move coupled with the final year at primary school. This engaging adventure will keep its readers entranced until the final page.

Arlo has been unsettled by his move to Cornwall following the ‘disappearance’ of his dad. He has a strong bond with his mum but the change and the tricky issue of making new friends is making things stressful for him. Luckily Arlo is blessed with an understanding class teacher, Mr Murray, who along with a couple of cheerful classmates are making things easier for Arlo. A class project linked to an historical local shipwreck captures Arlo’s imagination and his enthusiasm for pirate stories. As he digs into the background of the disaster he uncovers hidden secrets but alongside his school research hidden secrets are also emerging about his own family. Arlo is scared that this may wreck his new found happiness.

At just under 200 pages and with short chapters this is accessible for many young readers yet it is also a book with considerable depth of understanding and insight. This would be an excellent book to discuss in a classroom covering as it does family separation, loyalty and honesty, financial worries and intergenerational friendships. The characters in this well plotted story really shine and I think children will be reassured by the kind understanding displayed by the many adults who help Arlo throughout the story. There is a lovely positive feel to the writing and When Skeletons Rise is a wonderful way of highlighting the good to be found in communities. Another gem! Published by Troika Books in June and I would like to thank the publishers for my copy.

Cut Him Out In Little Stars by Lucy Strange – a sweeping Second World War story of first love, loss and a compelling mystery that has a lasting impact

Cover illustration by Micaela Alcaino

As a school librarian I sometimes used to suggest an author to a pupil in the upper primary years who they could ‘grow up with’. In other words someone who wrote across different age groups and would therefore supply that comforting familiarity of style but with content suitable for the reader as they grew and matured in their understanding. Lucy Strange needs no introduction to those familiar with the current ‘middle grade’ market having been shortlisted and won several awards for her historical fiction. Cut Him Out In Little Stars is her first title for the YA audience and is a sweeping Second World War story of first love, loss and a compelling mystery that has a lasting impact on those involved. I loved this and wallowed in the world created by this excellent writer.

Cut Him Out In Little Stars features Juliet, a young girl struggling to cope with the loss of her dashing RAF boyfriend. When she is despatched by her exasperated father to stay with her older sister on the coast her life becomes yet more complicated. Back in her childhood home she is reminded once more of the mother she lost when she was very young as long buried memories return. In addition she learns a shocking secret about her boyfriend and becomes involved in attempts to solve the mystery of the death of a local girl. These various threads are brought together skilfully and naturally as the plot gradually immerses the reader in the lives of the locals. As with her previous novels Strange has a gift for creating an enveloping atmosphere that increases the impact of the events portrayed. Against the backdrop of war, the dangers of the sea and the enemy combine with the suspicion of various characters and their possible involvement in the black market and even murder. There is a palpable sense of danger that increases as one reads on through the story. Juliet is a wonderful character whose development from a sheltered and naive girl into a resolute young woman who faces up to challenges endears the reader to her. This is a coming of age story that explores questions of identity and the importance of loving relationships and her growing maturity will inspire and reassure young teen readers. A cast of wonderful characters including Juliet’s artist sister Frances, the charming Bertie and the kindly bookshop owner Mrs Sylvester add to the enjoyment. The title is a reference to Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet and Lucy Strange has said she was also inspired by classics such as I Capture the Castle but this is a very much an engaging read for today’s readers. And this Juliet has a happy ending too. What more could you want! Published by Chicken House on 13th August and highly recommended. I should like to thank the publishers for my copy.

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UK’s top prize for published poetry for children CLiPPA awarded to John Agard

Posted on July 10, 2026 by alibrarylady

The winner of the UK’s major award for published poetry for children, the CLiPPA (CLPE Children’s Poetry Award) was announced yesterday afternoon at a ceremony at the National Theatre on London’s Southbank watched live by thousands of primary school children.

The winner of the CLiPPA 2026 is John Agard for his collection The Poetry World of John Agard, illustrated by Shirley Hottier (Otter-Barry Books).

John Agard won the CLiPPA with his wife Grace Nichols in 2003 with Under the Moon and Over the Sea and again in 2009 with The Young Inferno, illustrated by Satoshi Kitamura. He was on the shortlist in 2025 with Wise Up! Wise Down, with fellow poet Jon-Arno Lawson and Kitamura again. This third win is unprecedented in the award’s history. A towering figure in the children’s poetry world, John Agard is also a recipient of the Queen’s Gold Medal for Poetry (2012) and the BookTrust Lifetime Achievement Award (2021).

Poet and Children’s Laureate Wales Nicola Davies, chair of this year’s judges, says: “The first time I saw John Agard perform his work, over thirty years ago, I knew at once he was the most extraordinary artist. His poems gleam with human warmth and sunshine, but like all bright lights they cast important shadows, and illuminate things we have not noticed before. You can carry John’s words in your head and your heart and warm your soul on them forever. His book The Poetry World of John Agard will invite new generations of readers into his wonderful universe and I’m delighted that it is this year’s CLiPPA winner.”

The Poetry World of John Agard features 80 of Agard’s best poems, with new illustrations by Shirley Hottier. Taken from early collections including I Din Do Nuttin (1983), Laughter is an Egg (1990) and We Animals Would Like a Word with You (1996), many drawing on John’s Caribbean childhood, these poems resonate with young readers today but have also inspired many of the UK’s best-known young poets.

As well as spotlighting the best new collections for children, the CLiPPA inspires young people to embrace and share poetry through its Shadowing Scheme, which has been particularly popular in the National Year of Reading. CLPE is delighted to announce that record numbers took part this year, over 600 schools and over 120,000 children.

Jonathan Douglas, Chief Executive of the National Literacy Trust, CLPE’s parent organisation, who opened the event, said:

“John Agard’s poetry welcomes young readers to the magic and mystery of words, and his flamboyant, exuberant performances, whether live or on film, have turned countless numbers of children into poetry lovers. In the National Year of Reading 2026, when the nation is invited to “Go All In” on their passions through reading, we’re delighted to celebrate John with the award of a third CLiPPA and it’s a privilege to do so in the company of so many excited, enthusiastic poetry fans, of all ages.”

The CLiPPA award ceremony took place on the Lyttleton stage with live performances from each of the shortlisted poets. They were joined onstage by the young winners of the CLiPPA Shadowing, children who have taken a favourite poem from the shortlisted collections and created a live performance. As well as the primary schools in the audience, many hundreds more watched the ceremony via the livestream.

Thank you to Andrea Reece for her invaluable help in preparing this blog post and for providing the photo below of John Agard enjoying the ceremony yesterday.

Copyright Ellie Kurrtz

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The Children of Wolf Rock by Natasha Farrant

Posted on July 2, 2026 by alibrarylady

High in the mountains of western Scotland, there is a loch, and on its shores there is a castle, and in that castle there is a school…

A scene setting opening followed by an inviting almost conspiratorial narrative seductively draws the reader in and within a couple of pages one is there. We are at Stormy Loch Academy sure that something special is about to occur. Natasha Farrant has rapidly become one of my favourite contemporary children’s writers. I am unable to resist her skill at providing just enough detail to draw her reader in then tease them with a thought or comment which makes them want to discover more. The Children of Wolf Rock is a compelling, warm hearted adventure encompassing many themes but with that touch of magic that encourages young readers to believe in their own ability to cope in adversity.

Cover illustration by David Dean

Stormy Loch Academy is an unusual school. The headmaster, Major Fortescue, leads with understanding, encouraging a sense of responsibility, whilst allowing his charges some independence, and he ensures that his students make the most of the beauty of their wonderful surroundings. Amongst the new pupils at the academy are Minna, Kass and Tom all of whom are looking for a safe haven from their chaotic home lives. Whilst out exploring the three new friends encounter Addie, a teenager hiding out in the wild with her dog and her guitar for company. Gradually they discover that Addie is not all she initially seems to be and as an ex-student of Stormy Loch she has knowledge of Major Fortescue and their everyday school lives. At first Minna, Kass and Tom believe her stories but when she disappears they are forced to face the lies she has told them. However the children are determined to discover the truth and travel to London to learn more.

Natasha Farrant provides background to her characters enabling her readers to understand better the behaviour of each of them. Minna is loved and cared for but has difficulties coping with mainstream schooling and at Stormy Loch she feels free, happy and truly more at peace. Although not specifically mentioned in the narrative it is apparent that Minna is neurodivergent and this is portrayed with understanding. Kass meanwhile is the son of explorer parents who are constantly travelling on film assignments and his start at the school has been marred by cruel bullying. Following his parents’ divorce Tom is unhappy and vulnerable and is therefore drawn into the gang of bullies who are taunting Kass. These three children find solace in their surroundings and ultimately in the friendship they gradually form. The writing ensures that this feels both believable and encouraging to the book’s intended readership as they learn about resilience, determination and discovering what is most important to each of them.

Farrant wraps up these life lessons in a tale that carries the children up and down the country in their quest and this is an exciting adventure for children. The scene setting provides a wonderful backdrop and the healing power of nature runs through the story in a soothing manner. As with her other novels the author manages to mesh all these different aspects together well. Adults reading her books will recognise the important themes and messages contained within but for youngsters they will be concentrating on the characters and the outcome both of which are happily developed and resolved. I should mention that key to the plot is the subject of coercive control within a family setting but this is conveyed with sensitivity and in an age appropriate manner.

The Children of Wolf Rock is a thoroughly entertaining adventure featuring likeable and resourceful characters and Natasha Farrant has once more created an excellent narrative which is both multi-layered and thoughtful. Published by Faber Books on 4th June this is recommended for readers of about 10+. Thank you to Sarah Doyle at Faber for providing my review copy.

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