The Lion and the Unicorn is a beautifully illustrated picture book about a young boy whose father goes off to fight in the war. It is the story about the loneliness and sadness experienced by children during the Second World War, but also about different kinds of courage.
A miniature guide to the life and legacy of Queen Victoria, complete with colour illustrations and photographs.
This book covers the various stages of Victoria’s life and reign as well as additional details about everyday life during the Victorian reign.
Recommended for ages 7-11.
This story by the popular children’s author Jacqueline Wilson has recently been made into a television series on CBBC.
Hetty Feather tells the story of a Victorian orphan girl called Hetty and the adventures she has under the strict rule of the matron at the Foundling Hospital, where she is sent to learn to become a maid. Also available is Hetty Feather’s Christmas.
A popular novel set in Ancient Asia, suitable for Upper KS2 or more confident readers. The Firework Maker’s Daughter is the captivating story of Lila, who wants to be a firework maker just like her father. Follow her dangerous quest through strange lands as she journeys to the evil Fire-Fiend. Highly recommended.
This is a multi-million-selling series that has also been televised with Disney and is hugely popular among fans of action and adventure.
Percy Jackson’s modern world is turned upside down when he finds out he is descended from Greek gods. What follows is battles with monsters and epic quests in an action-packed series that merges Greek mythology with the modern world.
There are also Teachers’ Notes available to download from the publisher.
Fans of Percy Jackson will enjoy this edge-of-your-seat Egyptian adventure from the same author.
This fast-paced narrative follows the story of two siblings who find themselves thrown into an action-packed adventure where the world of Ancient Egypt meets modern life, complete with gods, pharaohs and ancient magic.
This is a good choice for upper KS2, full of mystery and a sure winner for fans of action and adventure.
There’s a Viking in My Bed by ‘king of comedy’ Jeremy Strong is the hilarious story of Sigurd the Viking, who finds himself transported to a modern-day seaside town in England. Will he be able to adapt to modern ways?
This is a witty, light-hearted text to use to help draw out the differences between Viking and modern times. More for entertainment than historical accuracy, this is a popular choice in lower KS2.
A super-fun novel by Jeremy Strong that tells of the crazy adventures of Perilus, a Roman boy who dreams of riding chariots in the Circus Maximus.
Romans on the Rampage is a laugh-out-loud and easy-to-read story offering a bit of light relief and is perfect to read aloud to lower KS2. There’s also a free accompanying Teachers’ Resource Pack available.
A well-loved option for a class reader or chapter book to study at KS2. First published in 1963, Stig of the Dump is a classic children’s novel about a young boy called Barney who encounters a strange cave-dwelling creature called Stig. Stig takes Barney on a series of fantastic adventures into prehistoric times.
This memorable text is a popular choice for a class reader or a literacy unit. Many teachers enjoy the opportunity to introduce pupils to a classic children’s book and there is also an accompanying Read & Respond (click to see on Amazon) book to help teachers with planning.
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