A community still battling the scars of World War and a family desperate for a mother figure - both a central to the plot of this book. Love, joy, grief, heartache, innocence and guilt - the characters of this story experience them all. The characters of Nettie, Alice, Dad and Aunty Edith are especially vivid, bringing the story to life.
Another instalment of the Percy Jackson series. It will be well received by fans, as it sticks to the tried and true formula that has made this series so popular. Riordan has done a good job of in keeping Percy, Annabeth an Grover as the central characters, while introducing some of the lesser known gods as the antagonists - in this case Hecate, goddess of magic, deception and crossroads. What could possibly go wrong? A lot!
A compelling and satisfying conclusion to the trilogy. Graci Kim has done a great job of rounding out the characters and story - there is a wee hint of romance, lots of action and some perilous decisions which leave the fate of some beloved characters hanging in the balance.
Part of the My New Zealand Story series, this book delves into the turmoil and injustices of the 1970s around overstayers and the targeting of the Polynesian community. The narrator's voice is authentic and the little details she includes in her dairy contribute to this. A book well worth reading. This would support the teaching of the Aotearoa Histories Curriculum.
It's hard to believe in this day and age that Nazi Germany were the hosts for the world's biggest sporting event. Even in 1936 the signs of what was to come were all there, for those who were willing to look. The premise of the book was a little far fetched, but the story is well written as usual!
This book has the feeling and sentiment of Les Miserables - the oppressed rising up together against an oppressor. Throw in some beautiful language and imagery, just a hint of magic and a city powered by the lights of the Governor and you have a powerful story.
Beautifully written, this is a story to capture the imagination of many an animal loving child. The power of nature, the dire consequences of human actions and inactions, the call of wild and power of the bond between a child and 'their animal' - this story has it all. Moving and almost haunting in it's depiction of the love and loss between April and Bear, it is reminiscent of the beautiful books Leila and the Blue Fox and Julia and the Shark by poet Kiran Millwood Hargrave.
A heart warming, gentle and endearing story of a robot who finds herself washed up on a deserted island (think Tom Hanks in Castaway) and who must learn to adapt and survive in the wild. The descriptions of how Roz interacts with the wide range of anthropomorphised animals, and how these animals respond to her are quite gorgeous. At times tense, at times funny and at all times eminently readable. This would make a great read aloud for primary children, probably Year 4 and up.
A very strongly written first book in a series. Lots of compelling relationships engage the reader and keep the story moving swiftly, along with lots of action and magic. There are some key plot twists that keep the reader guessing. This will appeal to readers who have enjoyed Harry Potter, Wings of Fire and Percy Jackson.
A great mystery adventure read for Year 7 and 8 students. This book would be great for use in a classroom as there are lots of questions that the story poses that would lead to deep and critical thinking, as well as asking students to consider a range of ethical dilemmas.
In a world where division and hatred appear to have become the norm, it is truly uplifting to read about how the Muslim community of the The Grand Mosque in Paris so readily, and at great risk to themselves, helped the Jews during World War Two. A very well written story that shines a light on a much lesser known aspect of WW2.
The second in the series that weaves the stories and beliefs of Korean mythology into the present day, in a similar way to what Rick Riordan did with Percy Jackson. This book continues Riley's story and we meet some new characters in the spirit realm.
A eye opening look into the poverty and challenges faced by the street children of Chennai in India. It reminded me a little of Lion, but for a younger age group.
Emotionally compelling, well researched, beautifully written historical fiction that poses some profound questions.
The dynamics of the relationships between the protagonist Ariel and a colourful cast of supporting characters, including her apple blossom princess sister, her absent minded lawyer father, a retired army sergeant with PTSD and her sister's boyfriend, Marcus, make this animal story well worth a read.
Powerful, challenging book that fits into the realistic genre. For use in the classroom, this book would pose some deep and critical thinking questions, as well as lending itself to a discussion about ethics and moral dilemmas. The age of the protagonist is my key problem with this book - I feel she is just a wee bit too young for this to be truly believable.
Very well researched book that delves into the science of code breaking and the Enigma machines of WW2. There are kids out there who will find this fascinating!
Absolutely stunning and powerful book. The story and the gorgeous illustrations marry together so beautifully.
Accurate, well researched historical fiction. The plot moves quickly and will keep the reader engaged in the tense, gripping fight for survival. The weaving of codes, cyphers and puzzles into the story adds to the tension of the story.
Fast-paced fantasy novel that would appeal to fans of Harry Potter, Keeper of the Lost Cities and Nevermoor.