Archives

Flambards by K.M. Peyton

Feb6

The Past v The Future

Flambards by K.M. Peyton is a marvellous YA historical novel. It is perfect for ages twelve and above.

I first read Flambards at school when I was thirteen, many years ago. I really enjoyed it then and I really enjoyed it now. It is a timeless classic for all to enjoy.

Flambards is set between 1908 – 1912. It is a time of change and progress. Horse drawn carriages will soon be a thing of the past. Whilst some cling to the old order of things, others embrace the change that will come with cars and planes as they are admired. “She felt humbled by their faith, excited by their courage…”

The social status will soon change with the advent of World War I but for now the old order of masters and servants exists. The forward thinking, kind hearted leading lady is just twelve as the book opens but she is remarkably perceptive. “People should earn their place and not be born into it.” She sees hearts and not wealth and social status.

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The Day I Fell Into A Fairytale by Ben Miller

Jan3

Magical

The Day I Fell Into A Fairytale by Ben Miller is a delightful tale for children ages eight and over.

The ordinary soon becomes the extraordinary and magical under the pen of Ben Miller. His stories always fire up the imagination.

We witness the importance of working together to right the wrongs of others. We need to have our wits about us as there will always be those who seek to deceive.

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The Boy, The Mole, The Fox And The Horse by Charlie Mackesy

Dec5

So Very, Very Beautiful

The Boy, The Mole, The Fox And The Horse by Charlie Mackesy is such a beautiful book about friendship, love and support. The message is simple – to love and be loved – but it is so very powerfully portrayed. This book is perfect for anyone of any age. All will enjoy it.

The drawings are simply done but there is so much power in them. The words are simple but the message is powerful. Every page is full of richness and beauty. It is a book to savour. It is a book to discuss illustrations and words with your children. It is a book to be enjoyed.

Friendship comes in many sizes. We all want to be loved and to be accepted. Good friends enrich our journey through life.

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How To Be More Paddington: A Book Of Kindness by Michael Bond

Dec5

Pure Delight

How To Be More Paddington: A Book Of Kindness by Michael Bond is a perfect book for anyone of any age who loves Paddington – and who can resist that little face? Many generations have grown up with this bear.

The book is beautifully illustrated by Peggy Fortnum to accompany the words of the author. Both pictures and words could be used as starting points for chatting with young children about the importance of being kind, just like Paddington.

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