Recommended children's booklists sorted by age or topic

Author & Illustrators

Lydia Corry Books

Mooncat and Me

Picturebook

A beautiful book exploring the theme of change and transition and in particular dealing with the anxiety around moving house and changing schools. The book is full of imagination, depicted through the main character, Pearl, who expresses her thoughts and feelings about the changes she is experiencing in a relatable way. This book reminds readers about the importance of not having to face challenges alone and that it’s OK to ask for help.

Moving home is a real emotional rollercoaster for Pearl, supported by her imaginary Mooncat when she needs him most. Mooncat helps Pearl feel safe as she explores her new surroundings with her mum and when she faces the challenge of starting her new school.

The story ends perfectly and although this is a must-read for a child moving house or school, it’s a beautiful story for all as way to explore dealing with the changes and transitions we encounter in different stages of life. I especially loved the details in some of the pictures, especially where they depicted different people – a great opportunity to use imagination and wonder empathically about the stories about the lives of others. The reader might wonder if Mooncat visits them too.

The Corgi and the Queen

Caroline L. Perry & Lydia Corry

Picturebook

Can one dog help a young princess learn how to become a beloved queen? The true and touching story of Queen Elizabeth II and her first corgi, Susan. As a young girl, Elizabeth’s life changed for ever when her Papa was crowned King George VI and the family moved into Buckingham Palace. But one thing has never changed: she always has her corgis at her side. This is the story of her beloved first corgi, Susan, who accompanied Princess Elizabeth everywhere she went – even secretly riding in her glass carriage on her wedding day to Prince Philip! Susan was there for Elizabeth when her Papa died and she was crowned Queen Elizabeth II, and remained at her side as a faithful companion in her early years as a Queen and later as a mother. This picture book provides a fascinating window into the life of Queen Elizabeth II from princess to beloved Queen, told through her enduring love of corgis.

The Pirate Mums

Jodie Lancet-Grant & Lydia Corry

Picturebook

Billy’s family is not what you’d call ordinary. His mums won’t listen to NORMAL music. They love to sing sea shanties and dance jigs in the lounge. Their clothes are highly unusual, they have a rude parrot for a pet, and their taste in house design is, well . . . FISHY.

Billy wishes his family could be more like everyone else’s. Until a swashbuckling adventure changes everything!

The Girl Who Talked to Trees

Lydia Corry & Natasha Farrant

Short story collection

Magical interlinked stories about what one girl learns from talking to trees throughout Time and from around the world. Olive’s best friend is a four-hundred-year-old oak tree, and it is in danger. As she tumbles into its magic world, she makes it a promise. From deep roots to high branches, a Persian garden to an underwater forest, from tulip trees to wild apple to vengeful box, she listens to the trees telling stories for all time. And she keeps her promise. With a conservation message and facts about tree science alongside the magicand wonder of seven beautifully imagined original stories, this full-colour book enchants and reminds us of the importance of trees in our lives.