Mel Taylor-Bessent Books

This is the first book in a super-fun and positive new series aimed at younger readers who are not yet ready for Dork Diaries, Lottie Brooks or Diary of a Wimpy Kid.

It follows the life of Riley Wright, a girl starting in Year 4 at a school where her Dad is going to be the new Headteacher! Riley is often embarrassed by her father and hopes to blend into her new environment, so she is horrified when he announces that she is his daughter on the first day. Despite this, she manages to make a best friend (Emmie) that morning and is shown her secret library in a long-forgotten cupboard, which becomes the girls’ refuge during the next few weeks.

Unfortunately, Riley’s Dad shatters the relative peace by announcing a talent show where all pupils showcase a skill, firstly to their class, and then to the whole school. Riley doesn’t believe that she has any talents at all and worries every day about what she could do, although it turns out that she is brilliant at helping Emmie with her own act.

There are positive messages about things usually turning out better than you expect, not becoming worked up about difficulties with one tricky person, and learning from our mistakes. The story gives a great insight into friendships at school and will give plenty of laughs about family and growing up. I think it is perfectly pitched for the middle of primary upwards and would be popular with those who have enjoyed Jen Carney’s stories.