Author & Illustrators
A brilliant book, the first in a series, published by Firefly Press in 2017. The compelling title features Aubrey, a “rambunctious child”, an adventurer and determined discoverer. ‘The Terrible Yoot’ refers to dad’s depression; he becomes sad, pale, confused and rather lost – “Sometimes he seemed so wispy he might have been made of mist.” Horatio Clare writes openly and honestly about Jim’s battles and Aubrey’s responses to what he witnesses. There is plenty of humour, plenty of adventure and some remarkably adept description. All in all, a very grounded and relatable story.
Aubrey and the Terrible Ladybirds is the second thrilling anthropomorphic adventure in a trilogy by Horatio Clare. Aubrey is shrunk to the size of an earwig and travels on the back of a swallow to learn about ‘The Great Hunger’. He discovers that pesticides and intensive farming methods are having a detrimental effect on the wildlife of Europe. This may seem like a strange premise for a children’s novel, but it’s not the main theme and Branford Boase winner Clare has a deft touch; he’s an incredibly witty and wise storyteller. There are other themes at work in this rich and fantastic story – immigration, tolerance and respect; but ultimately this is a novel about the universal truths of love, compassion and kindness – to each other, the environment and animals.
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