Author & Illustrators
As a real fan of Pages and Co by Anna James, I was quite desperate to get my hands on this new book in a fresh series from her. I was not in the least bit disappointed. There is something about her writing that firstly makes you wish that you had thought of it yourself.
Anna James’ writing is delicious in every sense of the word. Her books make you feel hungry and just wish you were there. Whilst at first glance this seems like a predictable tale, it has charm and magic all its own. The quote on the cover by Kieran Larwood (Podkin One-Ear) sums it up for me. “Crackling with enchanting magic.”
This book positively fizzes with magic and interesting ideas. The cover by Artem Cheboka is lovely, but the internal illustrations by David Wyatt are just stunning. They bring the story to life and whole pages of detailed drawings make you want to look even more closely at what is going on.
This is one of my favourite books of this year and I cannot wait for the next Chronicle!
An exciting fantasy story set in an animal world. From the moment the Bard arrives on one Bramblemas Eve in the very first pages, beginning to tell his interpretation of the fable of Podkin One-Ear, it is clear that Kieran Larwood’s story of adventure and magic among the world of rabbits is a winner. His delightful and bewitching use of language and appropriately complex narrative make for a fantastic read.
The story is anchored around the title character Podkin, but his role in the tale is equally supported by his older, and oftentimes wiser, sister Paz who makes for a great female role model among other characters in the tale. Despite being rabbits, each character is very relatable and they all have human characteristics. There are enough twists and turns along the way to make even older readers question Podkin and his two siblings’ next moves in their quest to keep their magic dagger, one of the twelve gifts from the Goddess, safe from the evil Gorm and their vicious leader.
Podkin One-Ear is an adventure tale that draws the reader in immediately from the get-go.
An appealing mystery story set in Viking times and written by historian and BBC broadcaster Dr Janina Ramirez.
Alva lives in the settlement of Kilsgard with her mother, uncle, baby brother and pet wolf, Fenrir. After her father’s disappearance, Alva finds herself following a trail of runic clues as a puzzle unfolds that readers race to solve alongside Alva.
Filled with historical details of vividly imagined life in Viking England, this is a gripping historical mystery that will keep readers guessing.
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