It’s North Wales, 1980s and a Northern Soul nightclub at the end of the pier. I read Wonderland by Patience Agbabi in one sitting: loved the immersive feel of this YA verse novel and the voice of the main character. It’s so vividly told I felt I was there! @fireflypress.bsky.social
Frank the Monster by Mats Strandberg, illustrated by Sofia Falkenhem, translated by Julia Marshall, is a quirky story full of warmth about a boy called Frank who accidentally turns into a werewolf. An original take on exploring fears and finding where you fit in. @geckopress.bsky.social
The Heart of the Storm by Teresa Heapy and Kate Read is an adventure story showing how in the face of adversity two forest enemies become friends. A story beautifully illustrated, filled with generosity, courage and kindness. @otterbarrybooks.bsky.social
Full of fun and brightly illustrated I Want Everything by Sophie Henn asks us to think about what really does make us happy. Great to spark conversations with young children.
The Magic Feather by Julia Donaldson and Catherine Rayner is a dream team partnership. A beautifully illustrated rhyming fairytale involving a magic feather, talking birds and a girl saving their nests from the queen’s woodcutters. A classic in the making.
The Brave Little Whale by Charlotte Manning is a beautifully illustrated story where we are invited on the amazing & often dangerous journey of a family of humpback whales, filled with facts along the way. I loved seeing the migration route map at the end too! @otterbarrybooks.bsky.social
Just Imagine have a fantastic Children’s Authors Live Event: Jack Noel and his graphic novel Dadbot series. For all teachers in Year 3-6 interested in bringing this excitement into their classroom on Friday, 8th May 1.30pm. @jonnybid.bsky.social
Link to sign up here:
vimeo.com/event/585181...
Kitty and Mary by Julia Gray and @imogenrw.bsky.social is a book I already know is my kind of book. Cannot wait to read this dual voice story written through letters and journals. 12+ Pub: 10th Sept 2026 @andersenpress.bsky.social
It’s a truth acknowledged by me that if you’re in want of a good read, you really need to place this one in your possession. It is an absolute joy of a read! Thank you @imogenrw.bsky.social and Julia Gray. A classic in the making. @andersenpress.bsky.social
The time has come to bring you the 2026 UKLA Book Awards Shortlist!
This year's list features a range of accessible and inclusive titles that really encourage reading for pleasure.
Find out more here: ukla.org/ukla-book-aw...
#kidslit #bookawards
