Author: BookNook

Kiki Kallira Breaks a Kingdom by Sangu Mandanna, Reviewed by Rosa

I enjoyed this book a lot, it was so realistic I felt like I stepped into the main character, Kiki’s world that she created called Mysore. Mysore is a fantastical world that Kiki made up, it has tons of peaceful markets and joyful people dancing and music calmly sweeping through the breeze.  But a monster is tearing it apart and she is the only one who can stop it…

This book was enjoyable as the author created characters with so much personality, they felt real! Kiki is a super interesting main character as she worries a lot but is an amazing artist. That gives it suspense as she might not be brave enough to fight Mahishasura, the demon monster that is willing to take over Mysore and expand the crack between universes so he can also take over the world.

This book was so thrilling and had such good twists that I couldn’t stop reading! I like that the characters aren’t all friendly, so she has a few arguments and huffs with some. Even though it wasn’t very much of a funny book some of the parts were quite rib tickling. Kiki being an artist is an excellent part as it enables the city to be of her own magical devising. Kiki’s city was so enchanting and divine I wish I could take a holiday there!

Five stars from me!

My name is Rosa and I am nine, I live in Hove with my cat Minty, annoying brother Otto and my parents. I love reading and writing. Writing is not just popping words on a page, to me it’s a step into a new world, everything is amazing and crazy, nothing is boring and grey. Reading is one of my total passions. My favourite books are usually mystery/action and include The Percy Jackson series, Harry Potter and some other smashing books. I have also written two books: Story Le Jenrale; and Paris at its Worst. Currently I am writing another, it is a picture book this time and is called Don’t Zigzag the Zoo.

About the book

Kiki Kallira is more of a worrier than a warrior – but today she will learn to be a hero. The mythical beasts she loves to draw have come to life, and she is the only one who can defeat them. A middle-grade fantasy inspired by Hindu legends about anxiety, creativity and finding your own strengths. For 8+ fans of Abi Elphistone and The Land of Roar.  

Kiki Kallira has always been a worrier. Did she lock the front door? Is there a terrible reason her mum is late? Recently her anxiety has been getting out of control, but one thing that has always soothed her is drawing. Kiki’s sketchbook is full of fantastical doodles of the Hindu myths and legends her mother has told her since she was tiny. 

One day, her sketchbook’s calming effect is broken when her mythological characters begin springing to life and Kiki is pulled into the mystical world she drew.  

There, she discovers the band of rebel kids who protect the kingdom, as well as an ancient, monstrous god bent on total destruction. Kiki must overcome her fear and anxiety to save both worlds – the real and the imagined – from his wrath. 

But how can a girl armed with only a pencil defeat something so powerful?

‘A fast-paced, vivid and exciting adventure story with real heart, I couldn’t stop reading!‘ – Robin Stevens, author of the Murder Most Unladylike series

Aziza’s Secret Fairy Door by Lola Morayo and Cory Reid, reviewed by Evie

I liked this book because she goes to somewhere called Shimmerton and meets the gigglers and that’s where the adventure stars! She quickly looks at her fairy door she made all day then she reached out to touch the doorknob and…that’s how she arrived in Shimmerton. Do you have intrest in adventures? Also do you have fascination in fairies? If so, join Aziza and her magical adventure! The best bit was when she met the one and only princess peri who was the princess of Shimmerton. You would like this book if you liked the stories Magic Ballerina by Darcey Bussell. Adventures await!

Hey I am Evie! I love playing with my friends, dancing, singing and having adventures through the stories that I read. My favourite stories so far are the Magic Ballerina books where some magic ballet shoes take dancers on magical adventures 🩰 . I also love crazy Roald Dahl books – they are so funny 😆 people get stretched, blown up and even disappear and I love snowy stories like Snow Day and also the enchanting Snow Dragon.  Reading is so amazing as every time you turn a page you go into another world and I love that 🥰.

About the book

Aziza’s Secret Fairy Door is the first title in an inclusive magical adventure series, perfect for readers of 6-8 from debut author Lola Morayo. It is inspired by world mythology and is gorgeously illustrated in black and white throughout by Cory Reid.

Open the door to a world of magic and adventure . . .

A mysterious gift arrives on Aziza’s birthday. It is a secret fairy door that will whisk her away to Shimmerton, a magical world with princesses, naughty fairies, shapeshifters, unicorn shopkeepers and mischief around every corner. But when the precious jewelled doorknob is taken, Aziza is trapped. Will she ever see her home and family again? Maybe her new friends, Peri and Tiko, can help . . .

Packed with mischief, friendship and magic, Aziza is perfect for fans of Isadora Moon.

Look out for the second title in the series Aziza’s Secret Fairy Door and the Ice Cat Mysterycoming soon.

How to Save the World with a Chicken and an Egg by Emma Shevah, reviewed by Evie-Belle

This book was an excellent read because I love anything to do with animals!
I loved how each chapter there is a different point of view from the two main characters. I was then able to understand about each of their feelings. Both main characters have very different personalities but they make a perfect team. So this book is also about team work and friendship – as well as animals of course !
‘How to save the world with a chicken and an egg’ also taught me facts about dogs sense of smell and exploding ants ….along with mucus, fudge and saliva!
I didn’t want it to end because it was so good , and even now that I am now reading a new book – I cannot stop thinking about how amazing this one was to read !

Hi , I’m Evie-Belle age 10. Reading is one of my favourite things. I LOVE BOOKS  – even if I have borrowed a book and read it I have to buy a copy for myself for my bookshelf !  I also love writing stories. My other passion is animals, my favourites are cows, dogs, frogs, horses and guinea pigs, One other thing ….I love strawberry milkshake. 

About the book

A terrific environmental escapade from acclaimed author Emma Shevah! ‘A truly excellent eco-adventure.’ M. G. Leonard

This story isn’t just about birds. It’s about secrets, the seaside, how seagulls can trick worms into thinking it’s raining.

It’s about mucus, fudge and dogs needing a wide variety of sniffs.

But if you want the simple version, it’s about what happened here last summer. How a girl called Ivy and a boy called Nathaniel solved a mystery and saved the world’s animals: one at a time …

A brand new topical and heartfelt middle grade adventure from the critically acclaimed writer of Dream on, Amber and Dara Palmer’s Major Drama. A terrific positive-action mystery in the wake of Greta Thunberg – perfect for eco-aware young readers!

Song of the Far Isles by Nicholas Bowling, Reviewed by Sophie

About the book

From Costa Award-shortlisted author Nicholas Bowling comes a tale of adventure, myth and music to make your heart sing … ‘Nicholas Bowling is a thrilling writer.’ THE TELEGRAPH

Oran lives on Little Drum, where music is everything. Every islander has a birth instrument and a life song – and the ancestors, called ghasts, linger to hear the music.

But when the Duchess arrives from the mainland bringing orders of silence, she threatens the ghasts’ existence, the very soul of the community.

When Oran hears of a mythical instrument with the power to manipulate hearts, she brings her ghast best friend, Alick, on a quest to find it, play it, and change the Duchess’s mind …

From the author of the Costa Children’s Book Award-shortlisted In the Shadow of the Heroes comes a thrilling Celtic-inspired fantasy adventure.

The adventure and magic of Neil Gaiman’s Stardust with a Hebridean-inspired fantasy setting and lovable characters reminiscent of Pixar’s Brave.

A story about how music has the power to reveal, to inspire, and to bind people together.

Pax, Journey Home by Sara Pennypacker and Jon Klassen, reviewed by Jude

Pax Journey Home is a beautiful story about the bond between a fox and a boy. This is the sequel to Pax, which tells the story of how the boy met the fox.  In this book, after being separated for a long time, the boy and the fox are drawn back towards each other.

Peter the boy is a bit lost after his tragic back story and Pax the fox is enjoying the births of his new family. At the beginning, I found this book quite hard to get into, partly because I haven’t  read the first book (though you don’t really need to have read it ). Once I did get going, I found their friendship amazing and touching. I loved the ending and found it really moving. Overall, I really liked this book, especially the way it takes it in turns to tell the boy’s side and the fox’s side of things.  

I think if you enjoy stories about the bonds between animals and humans and feel like you’re getting too old for pet stories like the Holly Webb animal books, then this is the perfect book as it’s a little bit more grown-up. 

Jude is 10 and lives in Brighton. Jude is a keen nature enthusiast and doesn’t just like the cute animals. He likes loads of authors and especially loves  J.R.R Tolkien, David Walliams, Roald Dahl, Ross Montgomery , Derek Landy , Michel Rosen , Katie & Kevin  Tsang , J.K Rowling , Tim Tilley and SF Said. Jude really loves exciting adventure stories but in real life, rather than being slaughtered by goblins, he would rather live in the One Hundred Acre Woods with Winnie the Pooh. The character he would least like to be stuck in a lift with is ChildChewer from The BFG.

About the book

From bestselling and award-winning author Sara Pennypacker comes the long-awaited sequel to Pax; gorgeously crafted, utterly compelling with stunning illustrations by award-winning author and illustrator Jon Klassen.

It’s been a year since Peter and his pet fox, Pax, have seen each other. Once inseparable, they now lead very different lives. Pax must protect his litter of kits in a dangerous world. Meanwhile Peter, orphaned after the war, has left his adopted home and joined the Water Warriors, a group determined to heal the land from the scars of the war.

When one of Pax’s kits falls desperately ill, he turns to the one human he knows he can trust. And no matter how hard Peter tries to harden his broken heart, love keeps finding a way in. Now both boy and fox find themselves on journeys toward home, healing – and each other.
A breathtaking novel about chosen families and the healing power of love.

Earth Friends: River Rescue by Holly Webb, Reviewed by Aletha

Earth Friends River Rescue is an interesting story about caring for the environment. It is about a girl called Izzy who is new at the school. When her friend Poppy has Izzy over to her house for a playdate, they then walked Poppy’s dog,  Billy.  However Billy fell in a river that was full of rubbish and  got his paw stuck in an old bike that someone had dumped in there. Izzy then has the epic idea to clean up the river!

I am a big fan of Holly Webb books but I especially liked this one because it is full of nature, friendship and fun!  My favourite part is when Izzy’s enemy Ali pushed Izzy in the river and then there’s a big surprise that follows!!! It is very satisfying because usually Ali gets away with murder!

Although I didn’t find it tricky, this book is a bit more grown up than the other Holly Webb books like The Secret Puppy and The Lost Kitten.

Aletha is 7 and three-quarters. She lives in Brighton and has a guinea pig called Bella. Her favourite authors are Jacqueline Wilson, Roald Dahl, Jill Murphy and J.K Rowling. The fictional world she would most like to live in is the Land of Roar and the character she would most like to be is Evie from the book Evie and the Animals. The character she would least to be stuck in a lift with is Draco Malfoy.

About the book

The second fantastic book in the series about four friends who want to make the world a better place.

Izzy and Poppy are being taken for a walk along the river by Poppy’s boisterous dog, Billy, when he decides to chase after a water-rat. Both animals land in the river, which is so choked with rubbish that Billy can’t get out. His paw is stuck in an old bike wheel and the girls must work to free him. The adventure gives Izzy a great idea for their next project, though, and it’s a very very muddy one…

A brilliant series about the small changes that make a big difference, with themes of environmentalism and friendship. Written by Holly Webb, bestselling author of the Pet Rescue Adventure series.

With cover illustration by Owen Gildersleeve.

Look out for the other books in the Earth Friends series: Fair Fashion, Green Garden, Pet ProtectionOriginally published as Izzy’s Rescue, this edition of the book comes with a brilliant new cover!

The Mask of Aribella by Anna Hoghton, reviewed by Leontine

 The mask of Aribella- I was really interested when I read that it would have magic, adventure and Venice in this book-The mask of Aribella – three things I like. I wasn’t disappointed.

There was lots of heart-racing and spine-chilling moments that made the book irresistible for me.

 The detail of life in Venice at the time there were Doges -in Venice- was one of the many things I enjoyed about this story. Some things are still the same now!

 A few things you will read about if you decide to try it are: the island of the dead, a powerful mask, a hidden painting and a black cat.  

 The setting, Venice, caused it to be even better, with the canals and intricate masks, the characters even travelled by gondola!

I thought the characters were really well imagined, especially the evil one whose part in the story I found really fascinating.

4.8/5 stars from me.

Now one of my favourite books, I would recommend it to people who like the harry potter books.

I hope Anna Hoghton (the author) writes a sequel!

My name is Leontine, I’m 10 years old and I live in Hove with my French mum, my Italian dad and my annoying little brother, who is 7 years old. I love reading books especially books about adventure, magic, myths and mysteries. I also enjoy reading comics with my brother.

About the book

Perfect for fans of The Thief Lord!

Aribella lives in Venice, the daughter of an impoverished lace-maker. But she has a deadly secret: when angered, sparks shoot from her fingertips. Unable to keep her power hidden, she flees – but when dark spectres rise from the lagoon, the fire in her hands saves her life. A stranger witnesses the attack – and through him, Aribella leaves her old life behind and discovers the world of the Cannovacci, magical warriors sworn to defeat the strange spectres menacing the city …WINNER of the North Somerset Teachers’ Quality Fiction Award 2020

Ace of Spades by Faridah Abike-Iyimide, reviewed by Abi

When I finished reading Ace of Spades, I was overcome with a very unfamiliar feeling: I wanted to go back to the very first page and read it cover to cover again. Set in an elite private school and told in alternating perspectives, we follow two Black teens: Chiamaka, a Italian-Nigerian-American teen who is Head Girl, popular, and isn’t afraid to get what she wants to stay in power; and Devon, a Black American teen and talented musician who just wants to keep his head down, focus on his music, and protect his secret. When an anonymous texter named Aces begins bringing Chiamaka and Devon’s secrets to light, Chiamaka and Devon reluctantly team up together to take the anonymous texter down.

The story is excellently paced, the mystery dark and delicious and addictive. Faridah plays with our emotions, dropping hints here and there, expertly instilling a growing sense of dread and horror that I really enjoyed. Yet, when I think about Ace of Spades, its brilliance isn’t just because it is mind-blowing and terrifying. Rather, the genius in the mystery is its thoughtfulness and that is speaks to real experiences that will resonate with readers – and I wish I could elaborate on this, because if this book wasn’t spoiler-free, this review would be twice as long with my thoughts on how I thought the reveal was brilliant. I highly recommend this book to everyone, it’s an amazing read and will leave you shocked.

I have two sisters, both are younger than me (I’m the oldest child). I’ve lived in Brighton and Hove my whole life. I live with both of my parents and siblings. I have 6 cats which can be very stressful at times. I’m currently in Year 10 but I only have a few months till Year 11. When I’m older I want to become an English teacher, I want to inspire young people to follow their dreams.

About the book

“One of 2021’s biggest books.” gal-dem

“This summer’s hottest YA debut.” Entertainment Weekly

An instant New York Times bestseller, ACE OF SPADES is Gossip Girl meets Get Out, with a shocking twist. Buried secrets come to light when two students are targeted by an anonymous bully with an explosive agenda.

Hello, Niveus High. It’s me. Who am I? That’s not important. All you need to know is…I’m here to divide and conquer. – Aces

Welcome to Niveus Private Academy, where money paves the hallways, and the students are never less than perfect. Until now. Because anonymous texter, Aces, is revealing the darkest secrets of two students.

Talented musician Devon buries himself in rehearsals, but he can’t escape the spotlight when his private photos go public.

Head girl Chiamaka isn’t afraid to get what she wants, but soon everyone will know the price she has paid for power.

Someone is out to get them both. Someone who holds all the aces. And they’re planning much more than a high-school game…

Unputdownable and utterly compulsive, this high-octane thriller takes a powerful look at institutionalized racism. As seen in Vogue, The Guardian, Marie Claire, The New York Times, Elle, Buzzfeed, Cosmo and Entertainment Weekly, and on BBC Front Row, perfect for fans of Karen McManus, Holly Jackson and Angie Thomas.

“ACE OF SPADES is the thought-provoking thriller we ALL need.” Nic Stone, #1 NYT bestselling author

“A heart-racing and twisty thriller.” Alice Oseman

“Strong Gossip Girl vibes and a whole lot of mystery.” Buzzfeed

“Thunderous and terrifying. There’s no way you’re putting this down until you get to the last page.” Maureen Johnson, NYT bestselling author

Wave Riders by Lauren St John, Reviewed by Alma

I Ioved Wave Riders because it kept me on my toes, as I didn’t know who I could trust. The characters were so relatable, especially when they were at the party, and the story was so realistic I felt I could go inside it. There was also a mystery character, so I was always guessing who it was. However, when it was (finally) revealed I was really surprised because there was NO WAY I would have guessed!

Wave Riders is about orphaned twins, Jess and Jude, who are living the dream sailing around the world. But when their guardian, Gabe, goes missing they are thrown into a world of mystery where nothing is as it seems. As the back of the book says: “How do you solve a mystery when that mystery is you?”

Hi, I’m Alma and I live by the sea with my Mum, Dad, sister and tortoise. I love Harry Potter and anything dragon. I am passionate about the environment and want to be a marine biologist when I grow up. I love art and drawing, but more than anything I love writing and reading stories. I like fantasy or contemporary books but love to read almost anything.

About the book

“A summer holiday in a book… unforgettably exciting.” Piers Torday

“Lauren St John at her very best… a gripping adventure across stormy seas, stately homes and boarding schools, with a fabulous plotted mystery at its core. I couldn’t put it down.” Abi Elphinstone

A storm is coming. What will it take to survive? An exciting adventure set at sea, from the bestselling author of the Laura Marlin Mysteries and Kat Wolfe Investigates .

Twins Jess and Jude Carter live a dream life sailing from one exotic destination to the next with their guardian, Gabriel. But after Gabe vanishes and a storm smashes up their lives, they’re left penniless and alone. When a wealthy, glamorous family offer them a home, everybody tells them they’re the luckiest children in the world. But the Blakeneys’ stately mansion is full of secrets – secrets that seem entangled with the twins’ own fate. As they race to uncover the truth, Jess and Jude must confront their deepest fears.

How do you solve a mystery when that mystery is you?

Wave Riders from Lauren St John is an exciting and compelling middle-grade tale of sailing, family and identity.

Don’t Doubt the Rainbow: The Five Clues by Anthony Kessel, reviewed by Alex

One year after Edie Marbles mum dies in a devastating train accident, Edie finds a letter in the pocket of her coat. It contains the first of five clues, written by her mum before her death, that will take Edie on a journey she never imagined.

Overall, I would give this book ★★★★☆ because it was captivating and almost hypnotic, while remaining realistic. And, the plot being set in London around a
schoolgirl, it was relatable, too. The book had an air of humour around it but was wholly a mystery/detective story, which I quite liked.

I am intelligent, funny and a very enthusiastic reader. I enjoy reading action-adventure and crime novels. My favourite book series is Skulduggery Pleasant, but I have also read The Inheritance Cycle, Alex Rider, The Hunger Games and the Scythe series. When I’m not reading I like to draw and especially write.

About the book:

The first book in the series, The Five Clues, is a real-time murder-mystery thriller and family drama, combining an exciting race against time with a heart-rending story about a teenager learning to live with the loss of a beloved parent.

Walking back from her mother’s grave, 13-year-old schoolgirl Edie Marble finds a note in a pocket of the sheepskin coat that she hasn’t worn since the day, a year earlier, when she received the awful news of her mother’s death. The note is from her mother, who had been looking into a corporate human rights violation and had become fearful for her life after receiving death threats. She trusts only Edie – because of their special bond and Edie’s intelligence – and has laid a trail of clues for Edie to find that will help her to shed light on the violation and uncover the mystery around her death.

Through her wit and determination, Edie steadily gathers evidence and negotiates the dramatic twists and turns of the story by collaborating with her friends and family to gradually unearth a sinister attempt by a pharmaceutical company to conceal their illegal development of a lethal virus.

As Edie’s investigations progress she is introduced, in parallel, to the Three Principles, which help her conquer various psychological stresses and support her in coming to terms with her grief.Reading age 11+