Author & Illustrators
Nothing is the same for Joff this summer. His dad is sick, his mum is working, there’s a new kid in town. The days are long and hot, and change is in the air.
With his dog, Jet, Joff explores. The Chapel of Doom is always there, ancient and crumbling, with its warning signs and the legend of the Falling Boy.
But Joff isn’t going to go past those signs … is he?
Intense and compelling, this is a brilliant new story from the award-winning author of the bestselling Skellig.
The Colour of the Sun is a complex novel by beloved author David Almond, who is well known for Skellig.
In the aftermath of a death, Davie goes in search of the killer following his mother’s advice that “the day is long, the world is wide, you’re young and free”. Along the way, he meets a host of characters through whom he learns about love, feuds, loss, friendships and growing up, while coming to terms with the death of his own father. At times, you are left wondering what is real and what might be imagined as the two merge into Davie’s narrative.
The story mixes themes of grief, adolescence, childhood and the supernatural. The themes within the book are challenging, but the text is accessible – making it a suitable and thought-provoking choice for KS3 readers.
This fantastic picture book is an uplifting tale of sky-high courage, imagination and the bond between father and son which will warm your heart.
Joe is starstruck, determined to find his way up to the magical lights in the night sky. But when Joe and his dad put their heads and hearts together, there’s no stopping them. Together they climb ladders, construct towers, and launch rockets in a spirited quest to reach something unreachable.
This story is full of magic and will inspire children to work hard to achieve their dreams. The narrative highlights the importance of imagination, perseverance and connection and is beautifully written by internationally acclaimed author David Almond and enhanced with stunning illustrations by Gill Smith.
This best-selling story from acclaimed writer David Almond is a classic choice in Upper KS2.
When Michael moves to his new house, his world begins to unravel. His little sister is born prematurely and is struggling to thrive, his new home and garden are in much need of repair, and his parents have no time, patience or energy for him. Then two chance encounters bring a fresh perspective and focus to his life; Mina, an inquisitive and sometimes outspoken neighbour, and the ‘person’ in the garage.
David Almond’s million-copy bestseller is beautifully brought to life with the soulful addition of Tom De Freston’s artful illustrations. Dark and abstract, they provide a glimpse into the mind’s eye without overtelling the story, enhancing what is already a heart-wrenching, thought-provoking tale and another fabulous source for prediction and discussion.
The story could be challenging for some children and contains mature themes, but if sensitively approached, it is a uniquely memorable narrative that provides a good challenge in Year 6.
A lyrical, captivating and beautiful picture book by Carnegie Medal-winner David Almond, illustrated by Kate Greenaway Medal-winner Levi Pinfold.
When a great dam was built by the Kielder Water in Northumberland, the valley below slowly filled with water. But just before this, when the villagers had been moved out, two musicians went back to the abandoned valley. They tore down the boards over the houses, stepped inside and started to play – for this would be the last time that music would be heard in this place. In this astonishing picture book that combines themes of loss, hope and music David Almond pays homage to all musicians, showing the ancient and unstoppable power of creativity.
A simple but punch-packing tale from storytelling master David Almond.
When a brand new boy called George starts at school, Daniel and his best friend Maxie are looking forward to getting a chance to enjoy the company of a new classmate. Daniel agrees to keep an eye on the new boy, although he has to admit there are a few unusual things about George. A series of questions without answers begins to unravel – like why George is ushered unwillingly into a black van at the end of the play date, or why the teachers seem to have a weird response to George in class, or why there’s a sudden announcement that George will leave the school. And what exactly is inside that tall box that is wheeled into assembly the following week?
This is an innovative story that weaves themes of compassion, hope and community as well as what it means to be alive. The dignity and compassion with which Daniel and his friends treat George are beautiful. I also loved the characterisation of Daniel’s mum, who is full of love, acceptance and a happy dose of Geordie warmth. The way people have been treated in the family home often naturally affects how they treat strangers, and Daniel is a prime example of this. The dangerous impact of technology on children is touched upon, but so is its potential to enhance human experience when treated sagely, with respect for human experience kept at its heart.
True to style, David Almond weaves a thought-provoking tale with hints of darkness, plenty of hope and pause for reflection on what it means to be alive.
review
Year group(s) the book is most suitable for:
Year group(s) the book is most suitable for:
Does the book contain anything that teachers would wish to know about before recommending in class (strong language, sensitive topics etc.)?
Does the book contain anything that teachers would wish to know about before recommending in class (strong language, sensitive topics etc.)?
Would you recommend the book for use in primary schools?
yes
Curriculum links (if relevant)
Curriculum links (if relevant)
Any other comments
Any other comments
