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Showing posts with the label reading lists

Books... book.. books...

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Searching for inspiration? In no particular order, books which might inspire  this Christmas. Buy them from a local independent bookshop and preserve our access to good reading. I loved the BBC series tracing world history through objects which is now available to pick through; this book is another way into a fascinating subject. Aimed at ages 8+ or so.      The idea of a poem a day isn't new but this new anthology has a varied range of styles and poets (Maya Angelou and Robert Burns!) Read a poem and journal or share your reactions. An inspiring workbook for 9+ boys and girls. Learn step by step how to develop confidence and be true to your talents.

Is your child a budding Greta Thunberg? Read this

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Where the River runs Gold by Sita Brahmachari is a fantastic read... the first chapter didn't grab me but, oh my goodness, the second did. Humans have destroyed the natural world and climate disasters have done the rest, leaving food shortages and searing temperatures  Society is fragmented, with the fortunate few living a disposable lifestyle and the remainder working to indulge them... Does this sound familiar? Shifa, the heroine, and her brother Themba are sent to a 'pollination camp' where children slave in polytunnels, replacing extinct bees (if you think this could never happen, read this:   The vanishing bee explained . Relationships, bullying and loss are all examined as the action moves at breakneck speed. An uplifting and challenging book. If your child: Wants to be challenged Was a fan of Louis Sacher's 'Holes' Enjoys dystopian fiction Cares about climate change I highly recommend this book to them. Buy it at an independent books

A moving and inspiring read for 11 - 14 year olds

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Beginning in the run-up to the First World War, The Skylarks' War by Hilary McKay is an incredible (and very moving) read. Winner of the 2018  Costa Children's Book Awards, the story is a worthy addition to the canon of children's books set during WWII and WWI which includes Carrie's War, the Silver Sword, Goodnight Mister Tom and Charlotte Sometimes. I particularly like the way that McKay explores gender stereotypes (the heroine, Clarry, is always battling against the 'girls don't do that' sentiment of the times)  and the gaps between public behaviour and private fears. You engage with the characters almost immediately. Their behaviour is never cliched and you find yourself warming to people you expected to loathe. Look out for lots of plot twists and some deeply emotional moments) I strongly recommend this to our students! Read more about the book here