David Farr

It’s been a short while since I’ve found myself lost in a middle grade novel. And I have truly missed it. This proof copy of the Book of Stolen Dreams (received from the wonderful Angela Williams at from Usborne) is a story that reminds me of why I love middle grade stories, both reading and writing them. A magical adventure story encompassing the themes of family, bravery, loss and justice.

If you’re looking for the perfect magical-filled read for a 10-12-year-old, come visit Mr Bs Emporium in The City of Bath to grab yourself a stunning finalised and published copy of David Farr’s novel.

R. J. Palacio

Ever wished you could change something about the way you look? Maybe you want a straighter nose, smoother skin or smaller ears. It would just be easier if we were perfect, right? Wonder is a book that shows its readers just how beautiful they are, despite their ‘imperfections’. We may not be able to choose the body we want to walk around in or the face we want looking back at us in the mirror, but we can choose other more valuable qualities. Kindness, friendship, courage, self worth, sympathy, growth. These are worth proving to yourself and to others. Because the thing about aspiring to the perfect look is that, it doesn’t exist.

Ross Welford

What would you do if you could turn back time? Say hello to a long lost friend? Hug a childhood pet one last time? Put in the winning lottery numbers? How about saving your Dad’s life? Do you think you’d be able to get your head around all the rules of time travel? Al tries his best but it’s a lot to expect from a twelve year old, especially a twelve year old trying to save a life.

An astonishing race-against time read for any middle grade lovers of adventure and science fiction.

A. F. Harrold

Some people are afraid of the dark. Others of spiders. Or heights. Or even clowns. For Rudger, he fears being forgotten. This is a beautiful story encompassing the lessons of love, loss and imagination.

A child’s mind is a magical, wonderful place, wouldn’t you say?

Pádraig Kenny

When there’s a hole in the world, when space has a tear in it, how are things supposed to stay as they are? The Family are exactly that, a family. Not conventional as you know a family to be but a family nonetheless. And family grows together, understands each other and protects each other. At least, that’s the aim, isn’t it?

If you like Miss Peregrine’s home for Peculiar Children, The Monsters of Rookhaven will have you turning the page late into the night and early into the morning.

Angharad Walker

Would do whatever it takes to stop the pain? Would you go anywhere? Solitude is a boy who did just that. However, there’s a blurry line between truth and lies. And that’s no truer for Sol and Dom’s story. An emotional, captivating read that will leave you questioning the scary parts of life.

Sarah J Maas

You don’t get to choose what happens to you after your parents are murdered. Not when you’re just 8 years old. But I’m sure being trained as the kingdom’s most deadly assassin isn’t something you’d choose to happen to you. But at least then you’d have the skills to fight for your freedom. To become the King’s Champion. Even if it is the same King who murdered your parents and all your people. Freedom is freedom. Right? I am desperate to read through the rest of the series and follow Caelena on her bloody, merciless path to freedom.

Phil Hickes

Books hold secrets that are just waiting to be read. That’s never been more true than for Aveline Jones when she finds a copy of an old, creepy book full of ghost stories. Now, ghost stories might be no big deal for you. Especially if they’re just ‘stories.’ But what if they weren’t just ‘stories’. Aveline’s troubles begin when the book’s secrets start to spill out from the pages and she’s left in danger as she tries to fix the haunting horrors that escape the book. A spooky read perfect for Halloween, but I wouldn’t read it without a torch to hand. You’ve been warned.

The House at the Edge of Magic, Amy Sparkes – Walker Books

What would your first instinct be if, over night, a new house appeared on your street? What if you found out the house was full of magic? Nine is the poised Artful Dodger in this magical tale full of mayhem, adventure and imagination. Sparkes tells a tale independence, freedom and friendship, all with a reminder that not all magic can be controlled.

Lesley Parr

World War Two is a terrible memory we all live with. Some more than others. Within these pages you’ll find beautiful welsh landscapes, charming characters and a captivating story. The story has the makings of a classic and feels timeless. Highlighting friendship and love, loss and belonging, it’s a gripping tale with a mystery at its centre. For me, it was Jimmy’s journey to acceptance that was truly warming.

S.E.Durrant

Life is tough. It’s unpredictable and it’s so very confusing. And even more so for children who have had to muster their way through a difficult start. This beautifully quiet book will hit you right in the feelings. S.E.Durrant has earned my respect for her sensitive and beautiful storytelling of such a difficult issue.

David O’Connell

A rags to riches ghostly mystery story. Who wouldn’t want to inherit a chocolate factory? Even if that does mean following messages from your relative’s ghost and putting up with your estranged evil aunt and two dangerous twins. After reading this, you’re going to want to try coming up with your own adventure steered by candied clues. Or just hit the snack cupboard like I did!

Steven Butler

Looking for your next getaway location? Then don’t overlook the opportunity to stay at The Nothing to see Here Hotel. As long as you have some magical blood running through your veins, of course. A creative, funny and inventive book for kidlit and middle grade readers. It’s a fast paced read that will keep its readers turning the page and holding their breath as they wait to see just what fabulous magical guest they might run into next.

Phillip Pullman

A worthy winner of the Carnegie Award, 1995 – both the year it was released and the year I was born! It has gone on to win further awards since and understandably so. I wish I hadn’t waited so long to read this book because I have fallen in love with every aspect of the story. A world such like our own and yet set so far apart. The whole story is fast-paced and engrossing. Pullman’s ability to world build is phenomenal, his characters, setting and magic are truly wonderful. He is an inspiration to writers of the fantastical.

Susanna Bailey

Snow Foal is a beautiful tale of a love, friendship, trust and hope. It would make a wonderful Christmas gift for any eight- to twelve-year-old with its stunning snowfall descriptions.This is Susannna Bailey’s debut novel and it is a truly inspirational and heart-wrenching piece. Bailey uses language beautifully to evoke emotion from her readers and delves into all the senses. I highly recommend this book for anyone looking for a heart-warming and comforting read.

Neil Gaiman  

Where would you go if your family were taken from you in the night? Who would take you in? You wouldn’t bet on it being the kind gathering of ghosts who occupy the graveyard just a few streets away, would you? There’s so much to learn from ghosts, and so many abilities to perfect, so its a good thing Bod finds his place among them. Especially with the danger he faces ahead. Enthralling characters and an engrossing yet brutal plot, it goes without saying Neil Gaiman is an expert story teller. He has an explorative and beautiful use of language which allows for such a visceral read.

Ross Mckenzie

This book offers magic and wonder. With a focus on relationships and conflict, the book has so much to offer.

Unlike a lot of middle grade books, The Nowhere Emporium is written in omniscient third as oppose to first person or close third person. For those who are unaware of the term, think of the term omniscient to describe a being as all knowing. Well in a book, omniscient third means the narrator is the voice telling the story instead of a particular character and therefore the author has more flexibility to reveal plot.

Unfortunately, for me, as a Potterhead, there were a few too many similarities in this to the Harry Potter series such as when Silver is found by Sharpe in a group home, hated and feared by everyone which is too reminiscent of Dumbledore’s collection of Tom Riddle. Also, although I loved the concept of Silver’s book and all its potential, it was a little too close to Tom Riddle’s (Voldemort’s) diary. I wanted a little more originality when it came to some of these scenes. For other lovers of all things magic, I’m sure you’ll enjoy finding the links between this and similar magical inspired books.

Ross Welford

In some point in your life, have ever wished that you could live forever? Have you ever thought about everything life has to offer and wished you could stay to experience every minute of it? I’m sure you have. But for Alfie Monk, the idea of living beyond yet another lifetime is too much to bare. Crazy right?!

But who are we to judge? We’re not the ones who have already lived for over a thousand years.

There is so much about this book that I love:

•The pace! – It’s fast and energetic from the start. The chapters are short and snappy (something I love in books) and so makes getting to the end of 410 pages breezy.

•The characters! – the dual narrative really works. The contrast of a 1,000-year-old boy to an 11- year-old boy is very cleverly done. Roxy is crafted so beautifully. She’s witty, intelligent, charismatic and so free-spirited. She brings out the best in both boys, especially Aidan.

•The adventure! – Welford has his readers biting their nails throughout before they reach the nerve-wrecking climax.

•The ending!

Carlie Sorosiak

If you’ve ever owned a dog, you’ll know what a privilege and honour it is to have something love you as much as they do. This story has a unique voice that makes my heart smile. A cosy, light-hearted read for pet-owners and wannabe pet-owners to enjoy. Rightfully awarded the Waterstones’ Children’s book of the Month for September 2020, if you love heart warming stories, dogs, dancing and bacon give this book a read.

Jamie Littler

Don’t you just a beautifully illustrated book? I do. It was Frostheart’s vivid colours and beautiful illustrations that originally pulled me towards the shelf.  Thankfully, the pages inside do so well to live up to the excitement the front cover builds. You’re sure to fall in love with Ash as he discovers his magical powers, laugh along with the crew of the FrostHeart as they fight the harsh conditions of a futurist Earth and feel the intense danger of the Leviathans that pray on all the human-kin. If you like quests and adventure then this book is for you. FrostHeart is a brilliant fantasy novel for older middle-grade children with strong characters, vivid winter settings and action-packed scenes.