Next Week I am Reading .... Books for over Christmas
With the Christmas break upon us, we have swapped our weekly feature 'This Week I Am Reading...' for Mr Merrell’s compilation of recommended reads for each year group. We hope that you have a fun and restful break and find time to enjoy a good book at some point during the holiday.
Lower School
Pirate Stew by Neil Gaiman
A little boy and his sister are surprised to say the least when their babysitter turns out to be a huge, bearded pirate - and he's invited all his friends round for stew! A great book for storytime with brilliant illustration by former Children’s Laureate Chris Riddell.
Little Santa by Jon Agee
A wonderfully entertaining festive tale, perfect for anyone who has ever wondered what Santa was like as a child. Full of quirky detail and subtle humour.
How Winston Came Home for Christmas by Alex T Smith
Designed to be begun on 1 December and completed on Christmas Day itself, How Winston Came Home for Christmas follows Alex T Smith’s previous story about Winston the mouse in another festive adventure. A lovely Christmas story that's ideal for kids who love crafts.
Middle School
Oceanarium by Loveday Trinick Illustrator: Teagan White
With remarkable illustration that will make anyone want to dive in and learn more about the wondrous oceanic realms, this is a brilliant addition to the now extensive “Welcome to the Museum” series, which has featured the planets, plants, history and more.
The Book of Stolen Dreams by David Farr
A tense and exciting fantasy thriller set against the backdrop of a cruel dictatorship. Complex, magical and packed with great characters – both heroic and evil.
Sisters of the Lost Marsh by Lucy Strange
A wonderfully unpredictable, gothic-feeling fairy tale where the lines between reality and fantasy are deliciously blurred and the downtrodden female characters emerge strong and self-reliant.
Upper School
Green Rising by Lauren James
When teenagers across the globe develop the ability to grow plants from their skin, they become the subject of fierce debate - but could they use their powers to save the planet?
Musical Truth by Jeffrey Boakye
Ground-breaking musicians whose songs have changed the world. But how? Read this and find out. Thrilling, urgent, entertaining and thought-provoking,
When Shadows Fall by Sita Brahmachari Illustrator: Natalie Sirett
Kai is on a downward spiral, struggling with drug addiction and personal tragedy, but his friends will do anything to save him. A novel that looks at challenging but important issues in a sensitive way, emphasising the need to understand the causes of difficult or wayward behaviour.