RECOMMENDED READING GUIDE • 2009 • TREOIR LÉITHEOIREACHTA

EDITED BY
PADDY O’DOHERTY
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WELCOME
T HIS annual recommended reading guide is published by Children’s
Books Ireland (CBI) and is free of charge thanks to the support
of libraries, booksellers and schools across the country.
RECOMMENDED READING GUIDE • 2009 • TREOIR LÉITHEOIREACHTA

Now in its 19th consecutive year, the national Children’s Book

Festival has established itself as the foremost celebration of children’s
books and reading in Ireland.
Following the success of last year’s programme, the festival will
again run for the entire month of October. It includes author readings,
illustrator workshops, storytelling sessions, competitions, quizzes and
countless other activities which will be taking place in libraries,
schools, bookstores and art centres across the island of Ireland.
EDITED BY

BookFest is a selection of the best and most exciting books PADDY O’DOHERTY
AS
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published this year (some publications from late 2008 that missed

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last year’s guide are also included). Although this booklet is available
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in September, it contains some books that are due to be published

BookFest is the recommended
in October to December, and is designed as a useful reference
reading guide of the annual
guide through till 2010. Unfortunately not every good book can be
Children’s Book Festival
included so do keep your ear to the ground and your eye on your
library shelf for other fantastic 2009 publications.
The books are divided into age sections, but please take this as a
rough and very flexible guide. Picturebooks can and should be
enjoyed at any age. Of course there are subjects that are more
appealing at certain times of our life, and some topics that might
not be suitable for younger children, but keep the age guide fluid
and dip into whichever books sound interesting to you. The books
in each age group are listed in alphabetical order of author.
Many thanks to the section editors and their teams of reviewers;
more than 85 people kindly undertook to read and review this list of
200 books. And thanks to Oldtown Design for their work on BookFest
and to Jenny, CBI’s administrator, for her enthusiasic input.
Further information about the festival is available on
www.childrensbooksireland.ie or from your local library.
I hope you enjoy the festivities and this 2009 BookFest selection.

Paddy O’Doherty
Editor

FUTHER INFORMATION: CHILDREN’S BOOKS IRELAND

Event Guide/CBI Membership 17 North Great George’s Street,
Further Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.childrensbooksireland.ie Dublin 1.
Events Information . . . . . . . . . . . . tom@childrensbooksireland.ie Tel: (01) 872 7475
BookFest Reading Guide . . . . . . . jenny@childrensbooksireland.ie Fax: (01) 872 7476

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 3
ACKnowledgements

CBI is very grateful to our funding partners who this year have enabled author residencies to take place
across Ireland during the Children’s Book Festival and we would especially like to thank the Irish
Copyright Licensing Agency and Foras na Gaeilge. We would also like to thank the Department of
Education, Northern Ireland for their continuing support.

  

  

The Children’s Book Festival is also indebted to the library festival organisers, The O’Brien Press,
International Education Supplies, Oldtown Design, Eason and Sons and all the participating publishers,
who every year help us to reach as many young readers as possible.

A special word of thanks to the Arts Council who, as our core funder, support us to celebrate books and
reading for children.

THE YOUTH LIBRARIES GROUP

T he Youth Libraries Group (YLG) is a very active section

of the Library Association of Ireland, which promotes
children’s books and reading through planned programmes.
It organises seminars, workshops and lectures on topics
relating to children’s books, activities and children’s
libraries. For more information please contact us at
ylg@libraryassociation.ie
New members and fresh ideas are always welcome.
Details of membership of the YLG are available from: The
Secretary, Library Association of Ireland, 53 Upper Mount
Street, Dublin 2 or www.libraryassocation.ie
Clár/Contents
Welcome and contact information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 3
Acknowledgements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 4
Note from Youth Libraries Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 4
Contents /Reviewers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 5
Bisto Awards 2008 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 6–7
Recommended Reads:
• Age 0–4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 8–17
• Age 5–8 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 18–25
• Age 9–12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 26–34
• Age 12–14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 35–42
• Age 14+ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 43–49
• Poetry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 50–52
• Information books . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 53–59

Irish-published children’s books . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 60–61

Competitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 62–63

Editor: Paddy O’Doherty

Section Editors: Valerie Coghlan, Debbie Thomas, Juliette Saumande, Síne Quinn, Helen Carr, Déirdre Ní Chonghaile,
Enda Wyley, Irene Barber
Reviewers: Carrie Anderson, Irene Barber, Emma Bates, Sarah Bourke, Martin Bradley, Úna Breathnach,
Emma Cafferky, Anna Carey, Jennifer Carpenter, Helen Carr, Seamus Cashman, Valerie Coghlan,
Ruth Coleman, Louise Conlon, Catherine Cotter, Margrit Cruickshank, Catherine Ann Cullen,
Donal Cumiskey, Tom Donegan, Robert Doran, Robert Dunbar, June Edwards, Karen Evans,
Jacqueline Fallon, Kieran Fanning, Jenny Faulkner, Eoin Fegan, Adela Fernandez, Anne Gannon,
Adrienne Geoghegan, Lesley Grant, Kate Harvey, Jo Holmwood, Charis Hughes, Lucinda Jacob,
Ashe Conrad Jones, Mary Ester Judy, Celia Keenan, Denise Kelleher, Patricia Kennon, Shona
Kirkpatrick, Siobhán Kirwan-Keane, Melissa Latham, Catherine Loane, Natasha Mac a’Bhaird,
Niall MacMonagle, Nora Maguire, David Maybury, Philomena Manson, Erika McGann, Kunak
McGann, Paula McGeever, Katy McGuinness, Claire McVeigh, Jane Mitchell, Andrea Morrow,
Liz Morris, Eilís Murphy, Lindsay Myers, Déirdre Ní Chonghaile, Alison Nolan, Ruaidhrí Ó Báille,
Roibeárd Ó Conchúir, Carol O’Connor, Irene O’Dea, Annie O’Doherty, Paddy O’Doherty, Sarah
O’Dwyer, Jane O’Hanlon, Ciara O’Hara, Joanne O’Loughlin, Terrie O’Sullivan, A.J. Piesse,
Conan Quinn, Síne Quinn, Carole Redford, David Reale, Kathleen Ryder, Beverly Shaw, Juliette
Saumande, Aishwarya Subramanian, Debbie Thomas, Déirdre Uí Ghrádaigh, Máire Uí Mhaicín,
Deirdre Walsh, Mags Walsh, Aoife Webb, Sarah Webb, Enda Wyley.
Cover Illustration: Illustration by Alan B in collaboration with the young artists of Tory Top Library, Cork
Design & Layout: Oldtown Graphic Design & Typesetting, www.oldtown.ie
Print: Printed in Ireland by Character Print Solutions, www.character.ie
denotes an Irish author / illustrator / publisher
denotes an Editor’s Choice
CBI has made every effort to ensure the information provided in this guide is correct,
however, CBI cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions.

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 5
 Bisto Book of the Year
CBI BISTO BOOK OF SHORTLISTED TITLES
THE YEAR 2008 Eoin Colfer
Siobhan Dowd AIRMAN
BOG CHILD PUFFIN BOOKS
DAVID FICKLING ISBN 9780141322216 (PBK)
ISBN 9781862305915 (PBK)

CBI BISTO HONOUR Roddy Doyle

HER MOTHER’S FACE
AWARDS 2008 SCHOLASTIC
Honour Award for Fiction ISBN 9781407107875 (PBK)
Kate Thompson
CREATURE OF THE NIGHT
THE BODLEY HEAD
ISBN 9780370329307 (PBK)

Honour Award for Susan Edwards,

Illustration Ré Ó Laighléis
Oliver Jeffers agus Emily Colenso
THE GREAT PAPER CAPER AN PHLEIST MHÓR
HARPERCOLLINS MÓINÍN
ISBN 9080007182336 (PBK) ISBN 9780955407987
(BOG, LE DLÚTHDHIOSC)

Judges’ Special
Honour Award PJ Lynch
Kate Thompson THE GIFT OF THE MAGI
HIGHWAY ROBBERY WALKER BOOKS
THE BODLEY HEAD ISBN 9781844280384 (HBK)
ISBN 9780061730344 (HBK)

EILÍS DILLON AWARD Áine Ní Ghlinn

Mary Finn agus Carol Betera
ANILA’S JOURNEY BRIONGLÓIDÍ
WALKER BOOKS CLÓ MHAIGH EO
ISBN 9781406306590 (PBK) ISBN 9781899922499 (BOG)

6 BOOKFEST 2009–2010
 LEABHAR NA BLiANA

AR
EBRSA!
T I N G
CEL
T Y Y E
T W E N

BISTO BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARDS

The CBI Bisto Book of the Year Awards identify, honour and promote excellence in books for young
people by Irish authors and illustrators.
CBI is now accepting submissions for the Bisto Book of the Year Awards 2009. Established in 1990,
and sponsored since their inception by Bisto (Premier Foods Ireland), they have been the leading awards
for children’s books in Ireland for the past 18 years. These awards are open to Irish children’s authors
and illustrators, writing in Irish or English, and published in Ireland or abroad.

Please send 14 copies of eligible titles to:

Bisto Book of the Year Award

17 North Great Georges Street
Dublin 1

The closing date for all submissions will be the 11 December 2009. No late entries will be accepted.

For full terms and conditions and entry forms please visit www.childrensbooksireland.ie – or call the
CBI office on (01) 872 7475 with any specific queries.

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 7
Age 0-4
GILES ANDREAE ILLUSTRATED BY DAVID WOJTOWYCZ
ABC JUNGLE JAMBOREE
ORCHARD BOOKS, OCT 2009, £10.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781408306796

The Giraffes Can’t Dance team are back with this zippy rhyming picturebook.
Each letter of the alphabet is represented by a different animal, from angel
fish to zebra. The illustrations sing with colour and vitality. Ideal for reading
aloud at home or in the classroom. [SW]

CHIARA BORDONI
USBORNE SING-ALONG NURSERY RHYMES
USBORNE BOOKS 2009, £9.99 (HBK), ISBN 978074609772

A charming, sturdy book for little hands with a CD to add musical fun to the
rhymes. Read these with the emphasis on the rhythm and rhyme and soon
everyone will be clapping along. Little ones can turn the pages with the tabs
so they learn about how books work. [JaF]

XAVIER DENEUX
MY ANIMALS
BLOOMSBURY 2009, £6.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780747597100

Black and white layouts are very appealing to young babies and toddlers and
the cartoon-style illustrations in My Animals make the most of this high
contrast medium. Small cut-out peep holes add a tactile dimension to the
reading process, while splashes of colour focus the eye on the tiniest of
details. [LMy]

MEM FOX ILLUSTRATED BY HELEN OXENBURY

TEN LITTLE FINGERS AND TEN LITTLE TOES
WALKER BOOKS 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781406319569

A charming mix of rhythmic and repetitive words and line and watercolour
pictures of gloriously huggable babies show that all over the world babies are
different, and yet the same. Perfect for reading aloud – baby’s older siblings
will love joining in too. A great present for a family with a new baby. [VC]

MARGARET MAYO ILLUSTRATED BY ALEX AYLIFFE

SNAP!
ORCHARD BOOKS 2009, £10.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781846167102

The illustrations of water creatures are convincing, colourful and energetic.

The text is all about movement and action and small children will enjoy doing
those actions themselves. For reading aloud, the rhythm of the text needs an
energetic style – not one for bedtime but great fun for playtime. [JF]

8 BOOKFEST 2009–2010
 Age 0-21/2
LESLIE PATRICELLI
HIGHER! HIGHER!
CANDLEWICK PRESS 2009, £10.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780763632410

‘Higher Higher’ are all the words needed as a child, her swing and the reader
begin an adventure that travels beyond the clouds. In space there is time for a
quick hi-five with a friendly Martian, then back to earth and the arms of Dad.
Bold colours and strong lines capture the excitement and freedom of swinging
through the air. The repeated refrain adds to the anticipation of what might
happen next! [DW] READ ALSO: The Birthday Box

JESSICA SPANYOL
PAULINE AND THE GIRLS
WALKER BOOKS 2009, £4.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781406309454

This pint-sized hardback with extra thick pages matches good design and
zany, colourful illustrations with a delightfully quirky story. Mummy Pauline is
a Minibug who has four little girls. They have adventures together in their
fabulous yellow Playtime Truck, sliding, bouncing, playing. Slightly bonkers
but great fun. [SW] READ ALSO: Stacy and her Luxury Lady Helicopter

ED VERE
CHICK
PUFFIN BOOKS 2009, £7.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780141384863

Colourful and quirky, this sturdy pop-up book follows the adventures of a little
chick from his first steps in the world to his first night in the nest. Young chil-
dren will love the comical chick and his proud mum, the simple, bold text and
the interactive flaps and disks. [LMy]

KEN WILSON-MAX
LENNY IN THE GARDEN
FRANCES LINCOLN 2009, £9.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781845079802

Lenny is a little boy spending some time in the garden, in his nappy, with his
Mum, his dog and a variety of insects that catch his attention. Illustrations are
clear and uncluttered but the text is the real strength here. One for reading
many times with words full of rhythm and rhyme. A sing-song voice will bring
it alive and little ones will love to ‘read’ along once they know it well. [JaF]

LOUISE YATES
A SMALL SURPRISE
JONATHAN CAPE 2009, £10.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780224083416

One of my favourite picturebooks of the season. Rabbit is small, but that

doesn’t stop him applying to the ‘Magnificent Menagerie’, because he has a
special talent. He can disappear and reappear right in front of your eyes. The
illustrations are superb, crisp, lively, and full of expression. Highly
recommended. [SW]

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 9
Age 21/2-4
EDITOR’S CHOICE
JOHN BURNINGHAM
IT’S A SECRET!
WALKER BOOKS 2009, £11.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781406314472

A very special book because it lets us in on the secret of what cats get up to at
night, but even more special because it is so beautifully crafted. In seemingly
simple artwork, Burningham conveys much in strokes of pen or brush, for example
Malcolm and his humans escaping hoodie dogs, dancing together at a glorious
rooftop party, and awaiting the stately arrival of the Queen of the Cats in her
palanquin. The secret is revealed but readers will want to keep looking to see how
eloquently words and pictures together do this. [VC] READ ALSO: Borka

MARA BERGMAN ILLUSTRATED BY NICK MALAND

OLIVER WHO TRAVELLED FAR AND WIDE
HODDER 2009, £10.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780340981634

‘Oliver Donnington Rimmington-Sneep’ is the little boy at the centre of this enter-
taining, delightfully jaunty rhyming picturebook. Oliver wakes up in the middle
of the night to find that his teddy bear is missing. He searches for him, first in his
room, and then as the pages turn he travels on through deserts and over moun-
tains, until he finds his Ted and comes full circle back to bed. The illustrations
are full of humour and altogether it is a really enjoyable bedtime read. [LJ]

KATIE CLEMINSON
BOX OF TRICKS
JONATHAN CAPE 2009, £10.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780224083447

Little Eva, strikingly conjured in fluid brush strokes of soft red, grey and black
ink, jumps into the box which arrives bearing her birthday gift to find herself
transformed into a master magician. In a series of dramatic gestures (Ta-dah!
says the text), she conjures and commands her very own wild rumpus – an
enormous dancing polar bear called Monty, multitudinous rabbits, the perfect
birthday feast and the very best cheetah/monkey/panda/alligator jazz combo
around. Joyously riotous ink-bespattered illustrations complement a spare text
that dances from the page. [AJP]

JULIA DONALDSON ILLUSTRATED BY DAVID ROBERTS

THE TROLL
MACMILLAN 2009, £10.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780230017931

A troll living under a bridge with only fish to eat knows he should catch a goat.
The pirates on their ship far out to sea know they must find buried treasure so
that they can buy a cookery book to improve their awful culinary skills.
Roberts’s assured pen line flows across the generously sized pages carrying a
lively mix of verbal and visual storytelling that confounds expectations about
how trolls and pirates behave, especially when they meet each other. Delicious
fare for the older end of the age group – and not just for fish eaters either! [VC]

10 BOOKFEST 2009–2010
 Age 21/2-4
JULIA DONALDSON ILLUSTRATED BY LYDIA MONKS
WHAT THE LADYBIRD HEARD
MACMILLAN 2009, £10.99 (HBK), ISBN 978230018174

The rhythmic, rhyming nature of the verbal text is both charming and engaging.
The alluring front cover features the cunning farmyard animals that plot
against the dastardly robbers. The strong primary colours of the visual text
make the illustrations jump off each page. However, the invitation to find a
glittery ladybird on each page is a distraction to what is otherwise a delightful
read. While not rivalling The Gruffalo, it is enjoyable. [JC]

JOYCE DUNBAR ILLUSTRATED BY PATRICK BENSON

ODDLY
WALKER BOOKS 2009, £11.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781844280322

Lostlet, Strangelet and Oddlet each find the answer to the question of who
they really are by offering what each treasures most to a lost little boy.
Wonderfully recitable repetition in the text is shrewdly and sensitively comple-
mented in the illustrations through a visual vocabulary of repeated shapes,
patterns and textures, rendered in a glowing palette of amber, green and gold,
as this warmly comical picturebook guides very young readers through first
questions about comfort and companionship. [AJP]

ADDY FARMER ILLUSTRATED BY KARIN LITTLEWOOD

SIDDHARTH AND RINKI
TAMARIND 2009, £5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781848530089

This attractive book is the warming story of a lonely child, new to a cold rainy
climate, who loses the precious toy elephant that is his confidant. Happily this
loss proves the opportunity for the other children forge relationships with the
new boy as together they search through the ‘jungle’ for the lost toy. A ‘must’ for
our schools and homes from Tamarind, who do so much to see that all our chil-
dren see themselves reflected in the texts they read from the earliest stage. [LJ]

LIZZIE FINLAY
DANDYLION
RED FOX 2009, £5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781862305960

Dandylion is a wildflower and that makes him different from the rest of his class.
He’s fun, but the fun turns to trouble and Dandylion is banished, but without
him life is dull. The class needs Dandylion’s spontaneity – a spontaneity that is
encapsulated in simple line and controlled use of colour to convey atmosphere
in a delightful story showing how difference is to be celebrated. [VC]

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 11
Age 21/2-4
ANGELA MCALLISTER ILLUSTRATED BY SARAH FOX-DAVIES
LITTLE MIST
SIMON & SCHUSTER, SEPT 2009, £5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781416904328

In this book of gentle images, Little Mist, the snow leopard cub, is introduced
to the natural world in which he will one day roam. Featuring creatures of the
snow-capped mountains beyond his den, the author gives Little Mist a taste of
adventure as he strides out alongside his mother. For now, though, he is safe
at his mother’s side dreaming of the future. This is a comforting night-time
read full of dreamy illustrations and reassuring conversations between a
mother leopard and her cub. [DW]

EDWARD LEAR AND ANGELA MCALLISTER (NEW VERSE)

ILLUSTRATED BY KEVIN WALDRON
THE OWL AND THE PUSSYCAT
SIMON & SCHUSTER, OCT 2009, £10.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781847383488

The adventures of the Owl and the Pussycat are known to many but do you
know what happened after they danced by the light of the moon?! In this new
version of the popular tale we find out with a brand new verse finishing the
story! The illustrations give this well-known tale a fresh modern feel, the
pictures are full of action and movement, using a variety of vibrant colours
that capture attention and imagination. A lovely interpretation that will please
both old and new fans! [EC]

KUNAK MCGANN ILLUSTRATED BY GREG MASSARDIER

THE TRAIN DRIVER
THE O’BRIEN PRESS 2009, F5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847170835

Dara loves trains so imagine his delight when he gets the chance to be a train
driver for the day! This is a lovely bright and colourful book; the characters are
likable and appealing to children. The inclusion of a very recognisable DART
will delight any child who has experienced it and is a nice touch! The story is
exciting with plenty of read-along opportunities afforded by the repeated train
noises. This book is a lot of fun and a must for any train lover! [EC]

COLIN MCNAUGHTON ILLUSTRATED BY EMMA CHICHESTER CLARK

NOT LAST NIGHT BUT THE NIGHT BEFORE
WALKER BOOKS 2009, £11.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781406304268

This charming and beautifully illustrated picturebook uses a bouncing

rhyming text with the refrain ‘Not last night but the night before, three black
cats came knocking at the door…’ The man in the moon arrives, then three
little pigs, Little Bo Peep and lots of other familiar guests – each one carrying
a big present. On the last double page this colourful crew of 25 or more char-
acters all sing a funny version of Happy Birthday. A lovely book for a birthday
or any day. [PO’D]

14 BOOKFEST 2009–2010
 Age 21/2-4
ERIC HILL FORAS NA GAEILGE (AN LEAGAN GAEILGE)
BRAN AGUS A MHÚINTEOIR
AN GÚM 2009, F4.95 (CRUA), ISBN 9781857917505

Níl ach beirt charachtair sa leabhar seo. Tá sé éasca le láimseáil do lámha

beaga. Cabhróidh sé go mór chun páiste a ullmhú don bhunscoil nó chun
cabhrú le páiste socrú síos ar scoil. Beidh aoisghrúpa áirithe in ann ionnannú
a dhéanamh le Bran sa suíomh ina bhfuil sé. Foghlaimeoidh páistí mórán
rudaí ón leabhar seo, ina measc, dathanna, uimhreacha agus an foclóir d’earraí
éagsúla. Feicimid go bhfuil caidreamh maith ag Bran leis an múinteoir.
Tabharfaidh sé seo misneach do pháiste óg atá le tosú ar scoil. [DNíC]
FÉACH FREISIN: Bran agus a Mhamó, Bran agus a Dhaideo

THACHER HURD
BAD FROGS
WALKER BOOKS 2009, £10.99 (HBK) ISBN 9781406317046

Green, slimy, cheeky and rude, Thacher Hurd’s bad frogs are very bad frogs
indeed: they ride motorbikes, slurp ice creams, make bad noises at the dinner
table, fight with their toothbrushes and even kiss their girlfriends … and
what’s more they get away with it! Illustrated in bold comic style, this funky
picturebook is sure to delight and annoy at the same time … why do frogs get
to have all the fun? [LMy]

MIJ KELLY ILLUSTRATED BY MARY MCQUILLAN

ATCHOO! GOOD MANNERS FOR COMPLETE ANIMALS
HODDER 2009, £10.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780340945254

Suzy Sue is a little girl who sneezes in other people’s faces. But her animal
friends are determined to teach her good manners. Written in rhyme, this is a
jaunty, fun picturebook with humorous, child-friendly illustrations, and a clever
twist at the end that older children (and their parents!) will appreciate. [SW]

KAZUNO KOHARA
JACK FROST
MACMILLAN, SEPT 2009, £10.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780230705401

Bold lino cuts, shifting from initial monochrome into a softer powder blue,
combine with simple, lively dialogue and quietly elegiac prose to tell this beau-
tifully executed story of how Jack Frost magically appears to entice a lonely
little boy and his somewhat bemused dog out to skate, sledge, and build snow-
men in a sensitively evoked winter landscape. Text leads the page turns;
pictures occasionally burst out of the frames; the angular figures are offset by
soft scatterings of snow. The combination is arresting and spellbinding. [AJP]

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 13
Age 21/2-4
ANGELA MCALLISTER ILLUSTRATED BY SARAH FOX-DAVIES
LITTLE MIST
SIMON & SCHUSTER, SEPT 2009, £5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781416904328

In this book of gentle images, Little Mist, the snow leopard cub, is introduced
to the natural world in which he will one day roam. Featuring creatures of the
snow-capped mountains beyond his den, the author gives Little Mist a taste of
adventure as he strides out alongside his mother. For now, though, he is safe
at his mother’s side dreaming of the future. This is a comforting night-time
read full of dreamy illustrations and reassuring conversations between a
mother leopard and her cub. [DW]

EDWARD LEAR AND ANGELA MCALLISTER (NEW VERSE) ILLUSTRATED BY

KEVIN WALDRON
THE OWL AND THE PUSSYCAT
SIMON & SCHUSTER, OCT 2009, £10.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781847383488

The adventures of the Owl and the Pussycat are known to many but do you
know what happened after they danced by the light of the moon?! In this new
version of the popular tale we find out with a brand new verse finishing the
story! The illustrations give this well-known tale a fresh modern feel, the
pictures are full of action and movement, using a variety of vibrant colours
that capture attention and imagination. A lovely interpretation that will please
both old and new fans! [EC]

KUNAK MCGANN ILLUSTRATED BY GREG MASSARDIER

THE TRAIN DRIVER
THE O’BRIEN PRESS 2009, F5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847170835

Dara loves trains so imagine his delight when he gets the chance to be a train
driver for the day! This is a lovely bright and colourful book; the characters are
likable and appealing to children. The inclusion of a very recognisable DART
will delight any child who has experienced it and is a nice touch! The story is
exciting with plenty of read-along opportunities afforded by the repeated train
noises. This book is a lot of fun and a must for any train lover! [EC]

COLIN MCNAUGHTON ILLUSTRATED BY EMMA CHICHESTER CLARK

NOT LAST NIGHT BUT THE NIGHT BEFORE
WALKER BOOKS 2009, £11.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781406304268

This charming and beautifully illustrated picturebook uses a bouncing

rhyming text with the refrain ‘Not last night but the night before, three black
cats came knocking at the door…’ The man in the moon arrives, then three
little pigs, Little Bo Peep and lots of other familiar guests – each one carrying
a big present. On the last double page this colourful crew of 25 or more char-
acters all sing a funny version of Happy Birthday. A lovely book for a birthday
or any day. [PO’D]

14 BOOKFEST 2009–2010
 Age 21/2-4
ANNA MCQUINN ILLUSTRATED BY BEN FREY
MY FRIEND AMY
ALANNA BOOKS 2009, £11.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780955199837

This is essentially a story of friendship. Amy and Monifa are best friends
since their first day at school; they both love art, dressing-up and animals.
One is Chinese and one West African, and ethnicity is explored without domi-
nating this portrayal of friendship. By emphasising the common interests
that the two girls enjoy together, cultural differences can be observed without
being the only story, and on this basis the book succeeds. The images are
colourful mix of photographs, loose sketching and digital collage, from this
young Canadian illustrator. [AO’D] READ ALSO: My Friend Jamal
SEE ALSO: View both complete books on www.alanna.demon.co.uk

CHARLOTTE MIDDLETON
CHRISTOPHER NIBBLE
OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS 2009, £10.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780192728654

This charming eco-friendly picturebook introduces Christopher Nibble, a

quirky, lovable guinea pig. Christopher saves the day when he resists the
temptation to eat the last remaining dandelion leaves available to his fellow
guinea pigs. The ‘reach-out-and-touch-me’ texture of the illustrations is remi-
niscent of Lauren Child’s collages. The illustrations give the book an
old-fashioned quality; yet, the story is contemporary, as the guinea pigs bid on
guinea pig ebay to snap up any last remaining dandelion leaves. This is an
entirely endearing and playful picturebook. [JC]

LYDIA MONKS
EEEEK, MOUSE!
EGMONT 2009, £10.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781405232586

Following the success of her picturebook Aaaarrgghh, Spider! Monks continues

to tap into the fears and phobias of many people with Eeeek, Mouse! But Minnie
isn’t at all afraid, she wants to save the sweet mouse from Daddy’s super duper
trap. She ends up saving an entire family of mice but hadn’t noticed that the cat
also has a plan. Monks’ bold colours and collage illustrations are full of fun,
humour and interesting detail. [PO’D] READ ALSO: Aaaarrgghh Spider!

MAOLÍOSA NÍ CHLÉIRIGH MAISITHE AG RÓISÍN CURÉ

TURAS GO MAIGH EO
AN GÚM 2008, F6.50 (CRUA) ISBN 9781857917437

Scéal bríomhar fantaiseach é seo do pháistí óga faoi thuras a dheineann

ainmhithe áirithe i gcarr ó Bhaile Átha Cliath go Maigh Eo agus na heachtraí a
tharlaíonn dóibh. Tá an pros i bhfoirm rannaireachta, rud a oireann go mór
leis an téama finscéalach. Ní mór aire faoi leith a thabhairt do na léaráidí
spreagthacha greannmhara ós rud é go gcuireann siad chomh mór leis an
scéal. Muna mbaineann an léitheoir nó an t-éisteoir sult as an leabhairín
gleoite seo, is orthu féin an locht. [RÓC]

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 15
Age 21/2-4
TASHA PYM ILLUSTRATED BY JOEL STEWART
HAVE YOU EVER SEEN A SNEEP?
DOUBLEDAY 2009, £10.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780385612838

Oscar is trying to escape his strange, quirky world inhabited by other-worldly

creatures worthy of the imagination of Dr Seuss. The verbal text is economical
yet effective. Told through a second-person narrative, Oscar draws the reader
into his world and uses speech bubbles to question the reader directly. The
use of sepia-shaded colours gives the book an old-fashioned and nostalgic
feel. This visually stunning picturebook offers the reader an imaginative jour-
ney through Oscar’s unusual and unpredictable world. [JC]

CATHERINE RAYNER
ERNEST
MACMILLAN, SEPT 2009, £10.99 (HBK), ISBN 978023052199

Ernest is a moose so large that he doesn’t fit into the pages of his book.
Squidging, squodging or squeezing doesn’t help despite the best efforts of his
chipmunk accomplice until she has an idea as big as Ernest. Pared back
artwork and text combined build to an unexpected and very creative solution
to Ernest’s dilemma. Rayner’s line is simple but sure, her colours muted but
telling, investing her characters with attractive attitude. A delightful picture-
book about creativity, friendship and fun. [VC]

ROB SCUTTON
LOVE, SPLAT
HARPERCOLLINS, SEPT 2009, £5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780007293407

Splat is a cat on a mission! He is in love and today is the day he will finally pluck
up the courage to tell her! This is a great book to read with children. The text is
funny and quick, including some repeated rhyming motifs which could encour-
age beginner readers to join in. The illustrations are a treat. The characters are
drawn in such a way that it seems you could almost feel their fur! Each page is
full of quirky drawings bound to make you smile and hidden details that ensure
repeated readings! This is definitely a book you will read again and again. [EC]

FIONA TIERNEY ILLUSTRATED BY MARGARET CHAMBERLAIN

LION’S LUNCH?
THE CHICKEN HOUSE 2009, £5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781906427085

Lion’s Lunch? is the tale of a young girl, Sarah, who melts the heart of a bad-
tempered lion. While there is plenty of opportunity for vocabulary development
with this book, the verbal text could have been more concise. Furthermore,
when combined with the colourful, childlike illustrations, the double-page
spreads appear unruly, making it difficult to establish a focal point in the illus-
trations. However, Chamberlain’s use of colour throughout is striking, and her
illustrations are energetic and vivacious. A lively but demanding read. [JC]

16 BOOKFEST 2009–2010
 Age 21/2-4
MARTIN WADDELL ILLUSTRATED BY LEONIE LORD
THE DIRTY GREAT DINOSAUR
ORCHARD BOOKS 2009, £10.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781846160455

This is a book about making a mess and tidying up – thankfully heavily

disguised! Hal is playing in the garden when a ‘Dirty Great Dinosaur’ turns up.
So begins a romp through the pages which ends when Hal, aided by his dog,
ties the Dinosaur with the garden hose. Hal’s Mum makes dinner for it and then
with a great burp it runs off as fast as it had come. Leonie Lord’s illustrations
in dinosaur green and brown and vibrant crayon-like line complete the fun. [LJ]

KEVIN WALDRON
MR PEEK AND THE MISUNDERSTANDING AT THE ZOO
TEMPLAR PUBLISHING 2008, £5.99 (HBK), ISBN 9871840118148

A button pops off Mr Peek’s suit as he sets off to do his round of inmates in
the zoo. His resulting irritated mutterings to himself cause consternation
among the animals who feel his critical words are aimed at them. But all is
happily resolved when he finds he has been wearing his son’s smaller suit and
he hasn’t really got fat, old and sweaty, and nor have the zoo’s inhabitants.
Waldron’s retro artwork is a joy in this beautifully designed and highly appealing
picturebook. [VC]

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AGE 5-8
EDITORS’ CHOICE
MAEVE FRIEL ILLUSTRATED BY JOELLE DREIDEMY
TIGER LILY: A HEROINE FOR ALL SEASONS!
STRIPES PUBLISHING 2009, £4.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847150844

In this third Tiger Lily book a stranger arrives in The Middle of Nowhere and is look-
ing for a film location. When the weather turns stormy everyone seeks refuge in the
Old Jam Factory theatre where Tiger Lily performs her version of the 1001 Nights.
Packed with richly descriptive language and references to great works of literature,
from Scheherazade to Mary Poppins, this is another sparkling story featuring
this feisty character. [PO’D] READ ALSO: Tiger Lily: A Heroine with a Mission

JAMES ALLISON ILLUSTRATED BY DANI CRUZ

DEMON FROM THE DEEP END
THE O’BRIEN PRESS 2009, F6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847171344

What happens when a horror movie maker starts turning into a monster he
might put in one of his own films? Evan Crogan is about to find out when a
free trip to Spain with best friend Liam takes a surprisingly spooky, goopy
turn. The boys discover a creature called the Blobster lurking in their hotel
swimming pool, and vanquishing it won’t be easy! Snappy, fun and imagina-
tive, Evan’s adventures bounce along at a good pace and are complemented
perfectly by Cruz’s energetic illustrations. [CH]

PHILIP ARDAGH ILLUSTRATED BY JIM PAILLOT

GRUBTOWN TALES: STINKING RICH AND JUST PLAIN STINKY
FABER & FABER 2009, £4.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780571242320

Philip Ardagh’s latest Grubtown Tales will appeal to young readers in search of
escapism. The antithesis of the ordinary world, Grubtown is full of oddballs
who do strange things like knit houses or put windows in airing cupboards.
Narrated by Beardy Ardagh, who rightly points out that ‘silly is in the eye, ear
or nose of the beholder’, this is a hilarious, nonsensical read that children will
adore. The use of different font styles and quirky illustrations adds to the fun
of this text. [JE] SEE ALSO: www.philipardagh.com

SIMON BARTRAM
THE DISAPPEARING MOON
TEMPLAR PUBLISHING 2009, £4.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781840117196

Bob, the Man on the Moon, has been saving for months to see the Stupendous
Alacazamo. But when the magician finishes his act with a flourish, Bob can’t
believe his eyes. Not only is he out of a job, the earth is out of its closest neighbour.
Can Bob and his six-legged sidekick solve the case of the missing moon? This jaunty
tale will delight children with its outrageous characters, from Matilda Boilankle
to Tarantula Van Trumpet, and its whacky black and white illustrations. [DT]

18 BOOKFEST 2009–2010
 Age 5-8
JUDY BLUME ILLUSTRATED BY KATE PANKHURST
THE PAIN AND THE GREAT ONE: GOING, GOING, GONE!
MACMILLAN 2009, £7.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780230700284

The annoyances and affections of siblinghood are caught brilliantly in these

seven short stories. Whether it’s getting lost in the shopping mall or removing
a pussy willow from the nostril, Judy Blume inhabits the mind of younger
brother Jake (aka the Pain) and older sister Abigail (the Great One) wittily and
convincingly. Elevating these stories above the usual tirades of exasperation
and envy is the love that can’t help bubbling between brother and sister,
despite their worst efforts. [DT] READ ALSO: Soupy Saturdays; Cool Zone

BRIANÓG BRADY DAWSON MAISITHE AG MICHAEL CONNOR

SCUAB FIACAL DANNY
THE O’BRIEN PRESS 2009, F5.95 (BOG) ISBN 9781847171283

Ní maith le Danny a chuid fiacla a ghlanadh. Tá áthas an domhain air nuair a

fheiceann sé go bhfuil a scuab fiacal caite. Tagann mamó ar cuairt agus
tugann sí scuab fiacal nua dó. Le cúnamh óna chairde cuireann sé deireadh
leis an scuab fiacal, dar leis. Scéal an-ghreannmhar é seo a thaitneoidh le
páistí d’aon aois. Is deas an leabhar é le léamh do pháistí nach bhfuil ag tosú
ar léitheoireacht go neamhspleách go fóill. Tá na pictiúir monacrómatacha i
stíl cartúnach agus cuireann siad leis an ngreann sa scéal. [ÚB]

MÁIRE BREATHNACH MAISITHE AG ROBERT BALLAGH

VERA AGUS A VEIDHLÍN
AN GÚM 2008, F10.50 (CRUA), ISBN 9781857917185

Grúpa ceoil sráide, veidhlín i bhfuinneog siopa agus Mam spreagtha ag Vera le
veidhlín a cheannach di is bun leis an scéal seo. Leanann an dúil sa cheol agus
san úirlis chomh maith leis an bhfoghlaim as sin. Tá idir scéal, eolas, dúil sa
cheol agus cíocras chun foghlama sa leabhar tarraingteach seo. Is gné ar leith
iad na léaráidí móra maisiúla réalaíocha déanta ag Robert Ballagh. [DUÍG]

JEREMY BROOKS ILLUSTRATED BY JUDE DALY

LET THERE BE PEACE
FRANCES LINCOLN 2009, £11.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781845075309

This thoughtfully crafted book uses simple language and colourful illustra-
tions to highlight the use of prayers from many nations pleading for world
peace and a respect for our environment. Pictures of barbed wire and barren
landscapes reflect the desolation and despair of war and contrast with images
of flowers, rainbows and lush gardens representing a peaceful world. The
linked hands of the children of all nations symbolise an unbroken chain of
prayers for peace and unity. [TO’S] READ ALSO: A World of Prayers

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 19
Age 5-8
JANE CLARKE MICHEÁL Ó CONGHAILE (AISTRITHEOIR)
CHARLES FUGE (LÉARÁIDÍ)
MURCHA SA bPOLL BÁITE
CLÓ IAR-CHONNACHTA 2008, F7.50 (BOG), ISBN 9781905560431

Seo é an dara leabhar faoi Mhurcha an siorc beag bán. Eachtra lán d’fhionraí
is d’aicsean scanrúil atá mar bhunús leis an dara scéal seo. Tá ardchaighdeán
ealaíne agus léaráidíochta sa dá leabhar, agus insint réidh thaitneamhach ar
na heachtraí, atá aistrithe ag Micheál Ó Conghaile i stíl prósúil atá fréamhaithe
go láidir i gcanúint Chois Fharraige. [MUíM]

LUCY COURTNEY ILLUSTRATION AND CONCEPT BY SARAH MCCONNELL

SCARLET SILVER
HODDER 2009, £7.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780340989128

Scarlet Silver has finally set sail. Her family have embraced their pirate
heritage and now their adventures can begin – when they learn to be pirates,
that is. Swashbuckle School seems the perfect place but the Silvers quickly
learn that you can’t trust all pirates. Scarlet Silver is the first in a series devel-
oped from McConnell’s picturebook, Don’t Mention Pirates. While the story
could flow better in places, and some jokes get lost, readers will enjoy this fun
read. [ACJ] READ ALSO: Five other books in the series

JOY COWLEY ILLUSTRATED BY ROBYN BELTON

THE DUCK IN THE GUN
WALKER BOOKS 2009, £5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781921150838

The General and his men are ready for war. However, they cannot load the gun
because a duck is nesting inside it! A ceasefire is called and, while both sides
wait for the duck’s eggs to hatch, the men get busy painting the enemy town.
When the General recalls his men to war they have other ideas. This powerful,
anti-war tale was first published 25 years ago. Beautiful atmospheric water-
colour paintings make this a sure classic. [AGe]
READ ALSO: Mrs Wishy-Washy’s Farm SEE ALSO: www.joycowley.com

DEBI GLIORI
WITCH BABY AND ME AT SCHOOL
CORGI 2009, £4.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780552556774

A witch for a baby sister, a mostly invisible pet dog whose stink is blamed on her
... as if Lily didn’t have enough problems. But now she’s starting a new school,
where her only friend has been sent home with Mystery Spots. This quirky story
takes sibling rivalry to new heights in the form of the Nose, the Chin and the
Toad who have their witchy eyes on Lily’s school. Wittily written and illustrated,
this book will engage schoolgoers, siblings and spook-lovers. [DT]
READ ALSO: Witch Baby and Me

20 BOOKFEST 2009–2010
 Age 5-8
ESTHER GÖBL UÍ NUALLÁIN MAISITHE AG EMILY COLENSO
EACHTRAÍ UCHTAIGH: SCÉALTA DO DHAOINE ÓGA
MÓINÍN 2009, F8.00 (BOG), ISBN 9780955407994

Cnuasach gearrscéalta é seo atá dírithe ar mhothúcháin an pháiste sna blianta

luatha dá shaol bunscoile: ina measc sceoin, eagla, imní, grá, misneach,
míshocracht faoi tharlúintí nua. Sna scéalta seo cíortar páistí óga ag plé le
maistíní ar scoil, le cailliúint fiacaile, le sprid chomórtasach pháistí eile i
gcúrsaí spóirt agus faisin, agus thar aon ní eile leis an gcúlra baile a thugann
uchtach don duine óg a bhealach a dhéanamh trína chuid deacrachtaí le
cabhair a chlainne agus na ndaoine eile a ghlacann cúram de. [MUíM]

ANN JUNGMAN ILLUSTRATED BY JAN SMITH

FRANK N. STEIN AND THE GREAT GREEN GREEDY
GARBAGE MONSTER
BARN OWL BOOKS 2009, £4.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781903015803

The monster that Frank N. Stein made turns out to be a very popular waste
disposal unit. That is, until the dustmen think they’ll be put out of work and
the Greens think he shouldn’t be eating recyclable waste. Poor Steinasaurus
Rex starts to feel rejected and lonely so his friends manage to build him a
monster girlfriend but can they bring her to life? Typos aside, this is an easy
but humorous read, well illustrated with simple line drawings and an environ-
mentally friendly theme. [KF] READ ALSO: Betrayal!; The Footballing Frog

JENNY KORALEK ILLUSTRATED BY GRIZELDA HOLDERNESS

QUEEN ESTHER
FRANCES LINCOLN 2009, £11.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781845071318

Swirling pastels bring magic to this simple retelling of a Bible story, and the stars
and moon in Esther’s hair are striking. The disturbing tale is haunted by the
gallows built by Haman, Grand Vizier to the King. Haman plots to kill Esther’s
people, the Jews, starting with her beloved cousin Mordecai. Through Esther’s
courage her people are saved and the book ends in celebration, but the sight of
Amman’s wife and co-conspirator weeping as he is led away paints a fuller and
darker picture. [CAC] READ ALSO: The Moses Basket, The Coat of Many Colours

ELIZABETH LAIRD ILLUSTRATED BY SHELLEY FOWLES

THE OGRESS AND THE SNAKE, AND OTHER STORIES
FROM SOMALIA
FRANCES LINCOLN 2009, £5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781845078706

These traditional Somali stories were told to author Elizabeth Laird by a wide
variety of people, from midwives to merchants, and that diversity is reflected in
the range of tales assembled. Sharing a desert setting, the collection interweaves
short animal fables, morality tales and more epic adventures to offer a fascinating
glimpse of Somali legends and life. Simply and engagingly recounted, the
compact style and expressive drawings make this well-chosen collection a
pleasure to read. [CH] READ ALSO: A Fistful of Pearls, and Other Tales from Iraq

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 21
Age 5-8
OISÍN McGANN
THE BABY GIANT
THE O’BRIEN PRESS 2009, F5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847170880

The familiar story of how Irish giant Finn McCool outwits the Scottish giant by
pretending to be his own baby son is told with gusto through the words and
pictures of Oisín McGann. The words, illustrations and design work in tandem
to tell the story in a clear, easy-to-follow way and the text layout is excellent for
those beginning to master reading. This is a retelling rather than a reinvention
and the abundant humour is not allowed to interfere with the clear story. [AGa]
READ ALSO: Mad Grandad’s Wicked Pictures SEE ALSO: www.oisinmcgann.com

NICOLA MOFFATT MAISITHE AG MARGARET ANNE SUGGS

LÁ BREÁ FUAR
AN GÚM 2008, F4.50 (BOG), ISBN 9781857917130

Is ceann de shraith leabhar léitheoireachta é seo do pháistí atá ag tosnú ar

léamh na Gaeilge. Níl mórán de scéal ann. Tá na léaráidí ildaite agus tais-
peáintear na h-éadaí éagsúla go soiléir. Úsáidtear athrá tríd an leabhar a
chuideodh le stór focail an léitheora. Is é aidhm na leabhair seo ná páistí a
spreagadh chun na scileanna léitheoireachta atá foghlamtha acu a chleach-
tadh. Éiríonn leis an leabhar sa mhéid seo ach ní fheadar an músclódh an
scéal suim léitheoireachta i bpáistí. [ÚB]

TOMM MOORE RETOLD BY MARY WEBB

THE SECRET OF KELLS
THE 0’BRIEN PRESS 2009, F12.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781847171221

Young Brendan’s dull bubble of monastic life at Kells is burst by the arrival of
Aidan, a master illustrator from Iona, clutching the book he is illuminating. Ventur-
ing into the forest to help complete the old monk’s work, Brendan encounters
wolves, a fairy and the monster Crom Cruach. The beauty of this book-of-the-film
lies in the whirling illustrations, which blaze from the page. A background page on
the Book of Kells and a copy of Chi-Ro page complete this exquisite companion to
the film. [DT] READ ALSO: The Secret of Kells by Eithne Massey, a novel for 9–12s

CHRIS MOULD
THE TREASURE KEEPERS
HODDER 2009, £6.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780340950562

The sixth book in the Something Wickedly Weird series sees Stanley Buggles
and his friends in the Secret Keepers’ Alliance guard their island home, Cramp-
ton Rock. The team foils attempts to blow up the island for the treasure hidden
in the underground mines. A pacy story for newly confident readers with a large
cast of characters including pirates, werewolves and a talking pike, this book is
sufficiently ‘weird’ without being frightening. Chris Mould’s artistic skill shines
through the atmospheric and humorous black and white illustrations. [AGa]
READ ALSO: The Wooden Mile SEE ALSO: www.somethingwickedlyweird.com

22 BOOKFEST 2009–2010
 Age 5-8
LINDA NEWBERRY ILLUSTRATED BY STEPHEN LAMBERT
CAT TALES: SMOKE CAT
USBORNE BOOKS 2009, £3.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780746097298

Award-winning storyteller Linda Newberry has created a charming tale about

how the past and present are inextricably linked. The reader is drawn into the
mystery of the house next door where an old lady and a greyish-blue cat are
only visible to the little boy who is new to the neighbourhood. The simple ink
drawings are a real addition to the story, giving a good sense of all the characters.
This is a ghost story that definitely won’t scare young readers. [JE]
READ ALSO: Cat Tales Shop Cat

TOM PALMER ILLUSTRATED BY BRIAN WILLIAMSON

FOOTBALL ACADEMY: BOYS UNITED
PUFFIN BOOKS 2009, £4.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780141324678

Football fans will love this book about Jake Oldfield who secures a contract with
United. Jake is worried about his height and the fact that he supports City. His
biggest obstacle however is Ryan, team captain and bully, who wants Jake off
the team. Like in the best sports fiction, the sport here becomes a vehicle to
explore important themes like bullying and growing up. The football lingo, name
dropping, tight plot and remarkably fleshed out characters will reel in even the
most reluctant boy. [KF] READ ALSO: Football Academy: Striking Out

SALLY POMME CLAYTON ILLUSTRATED BY VIRGINIA LEE

PERSEPHONE
FRANCES LINCOLN 2009, £11.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781845075330

The Greek myth is retold with drama and pathos. The power of Hades is empha-
sised as he suddenly appears out of the forest in his chariot. Virginia Lee’s
illustrations depict wonderfully the despair of Demeter at the loss of her daugh-
ter and Persephone’s sense of isolation and powerlessness. For the young reader
the text is brief, informative and dramatic, while the glory of summer and the
desolation of winter during Persephone’s absence are skilfully represented in the
illustrations. [TO’S] READ ALSO: Tales Told in Tents: Stories from Central Asia

SHOO RAYNER
VIKING VIK AND THE BUG HOUSE
ORCHARD BOOKS 2009, £3.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781846167263

Sibling rivalry, fun and frolics and an adventure with a host of creepy crawlies
is what this entertaining little book is all about. Set in the year 874 when
Vikings ruled the waves, it is full of witty references to Viking lifestyles –
although young readers will also enjoy the similarities to contemporary life
such as nagging mums, bothersome brothers and household chores! The
balance between text and illustration on every page is perfect for this age
group. [JE] READ ALSO: Viking Vik and the Trolls

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 23
Age 5-8
GABRIEL ROSENSTOCK MAISITHE AG RÓISIN CURÉ
AN tOLLAMH FOLAMH
COIS LIFE 2009, F10.00 (CRUA), ISBN 9781901176940

Ní maith leis an ollamh seo aon rud a bheith lán agus mar sin folmhaíonn sé
chuile rud ach amháin an nead. Creideann sé go bhfuil an saol ró lán cheana.
Faigheann sé damhán alla ina phóca agus luch mharbh sa tarraicán nuair a
fholmhaíonn sé iad. Tá go leor athrá agus léaráidí den scoth sa leabhar.
Athraíonn sé a aigne faoi rudaí folmha nuair a fhaigheann sé bronntanas dá
bhreithlá agus ní bhíonn ann ach bosca folamh. [DNÍC]

MARGARET RYAN ILLUSTRATED BY SARAH HORNE

ROODICA THE RUDE AND THE FAMOUS FLEA TRICK
CATNIP PUBLISHING 2009, £4.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781846470721

Princess Roodica makes no secret of her dislike of the Romans who have
conquered her kingdom. She takes every opportunity to be rude to them,
much to the horror of her mother and two sisters. When the Romans steal a
chair made by her sister, Roodica sets out to rescue it, which means war.
A giggle fest with page-turning fun and antics. [PM]
READ ALSO: Roodica the Rude and the Chariot Challenge

TOON TELLEGEN ILLUSTRATED BY JESSICA AHLBERG

LETTERS TO ANYONE AND EVERYONE
BOXER BOOKS, SEPT 2009, £9.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781906250942

A squirrel writes a letter to a table. A jealous crow writes to a sparrow and gets
a chirpy reply. On New Year’s Eve the animals write to the sun. Each time the
wind plays postman. All life is here in Tellegen’s philosophical fables, from
the aphid who is ashamed of himself to the lonely penguin whose party invita-
tions melt into the ocean. Ahlberg’s lively ink and watercolour illustrations
add to the charm of the unusual and surreal text. [CAC]
READ ALSO: The Squirrel’s Birthday and Other Parties

JENNY VALENTINE ILLUSTRATED BY JOE BERGER

IGGY & ME
HARPERCOLLINS, SEPT 2009, £5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780007283620

This first book for younger readers from this award-winning writer is a collec-
tion of anecdotes from real life that any two-sister or two-sibling family will
enjoy. Iggy and her big sister Flo play games, do art, create pretend worlds, go
on a long car journey, move house… The tone is affectionate, the observations
sharp and the humour, especially Dad, is hilarious. Although well written, they
lack plot or tension and remain snapshots. [PO’D]

24 BOOKFEST 2009–2010
 Age 5-8
JEANNE WILLIS ILLUSTRATED BY NICK MALAND
THE GOFFINS FUN AND GAMES
WALKER BOOKS 2009, £4.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781496308709

George is a young boy who befriends some rather unusual house guests called
Lofty and Eave. They are not like any people that he knows but they seem to
know a lot about George’s family. Join them in their adventure: you won’t be
disappointed. Text and illustration work together wonderfully in this imagina-
tive book, which is better suited to the upper end of the age group. [PM]
READ ALSO: The Goffins Lofty and Eave

JEANETTE WINTERSON ILLUSTRATED BY ROSALIND MACCURRACH

THE LION, THE UNICORN AND ME
SCHOLASTIC, OCT 2009, £12.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781407109060

A humble little donkey narrates this delightful retelling of the very first Christ-
mas. He was chosen by an angel over all the other animals, including the Lion
and the Unicorn, to do a very important job. He takes off for Bethlehem on a
magical journey with Joseph and Mary. It’s an evocative tale, full of warmth
and humour with gorgeous pen and ink illustrations and gold highlights. [AGe]
READ ALSO: The King of Capri SEE ALSO: www.jeanettewinterson.com

New for Autumn from

Fantastic new reads for all ages!

This eagerly-
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For more details on these
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AGE 9-12
EDITOR’S CHOICE
PHILIP REEVE
FEVER CRUMB
SCHOLASTIC 2009, £12.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781407102429

For Engineer-apprentice Fever Crumb, one should always do ‘the rational

thing’. But lost in a futuristic London alive with political struggles, deadly
secrets and violent passions, Fever is brought to uncover her own dark side:
her unimaginable past, her uncontrollable feelings and above all her desire to
be herself. This prequel to the Mortal Engines series is both exciting and
clever. It will hook up existing fans as well as newcomers to Reeve’s extraordi-
nary worlds. Fantastic stuff! [JS] SEE ALSO: www.mortalengines.co.uk

MARY ARRIGAN
ESTY’S GOLD
FRANCES LINCOLN 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781845079659

This absorbing and tense story follows Esty and her family as they struggle to
survive the potato famine and its turbulent effects on 1840’s Ireland. Esty’s
resilience and perseverance are challenged to the limits during their journey
as she leads her family’s attempts to carve a new life in the harsh and violent
goldfields of Ballarat in Australia. The skilful storytelling in this sophisticated
yet accessible novel effectively addresses the topical issues of social injustice,
emigration, class tensions and cultural displacement. [PK]

JON BERKELEY ILLUSTRATED BY BRANDON DORMAN

THE LIGHTNING KEY: THE WEDNESDAY TALES
HARPERCOLLINS 2009, £8.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781847384447

In this exciting finale to this trilogy, orphan Miles Wednesday sets out to retrieve
the magical Tiger’s Egg. With his angel friend Little and the mad Baltinglass of
Araby by his side, he travels to distant lands to discover the secrets of the egg
and face old enemies. Once again Berkeley captures a truly magical story with a
fluid use of language that wraps itself around the reader and carries you on the
journey alongside Miles and his companions. Highly recommended for young
and older readers. [RC] READ ALSO: The Palace of Laughter; The Tiger’s Egg

TERENCE BLACKER
MISSING, BELIEVED CRAZY
MACMILLAN 2009, £9.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780330458481

There’s more than one way to raise money for charity, but Trix and her friends
have decided that cake sales and charity treks were not good enough. Instead,
they’re going to fake Trix’s kidnap and send the ‘Help Find Little Trixie’ fund to
the starving children of Africa. Told in the voices of all the protagonists involved
in the scam except for Trix herself, this is a crazy-mad book about serious
subjects, like caring for others, knowing oneself and plucking chickens! [JS]

26 BOOKFEST 2009–2010
 Age 9-12
PÁDRAIC BREATHNACH MAISITHE AG OLIVIA GOLDEN
AN CAITÍN A D’ITH AN PÍOTSA
CLÓ MHAIGH EO, NOV 2009, F8.50 (BOG), ISBN 9781899922567

Taitneoidh an scéal seo thar cionn le páistí. Is aoibhinn leo píotsa agus athnú
caitíní. Tógtar an léitheoir ar an turas leis an bpíotsa chuig Baba Mhór. Tá
athrá sa scéal rud a thabharfaidh deis don léitheoir a bheith páirteach ann.
(COVER NOT AVAILABLE AT
Beidh an scéal seo oiriúnach ar scoil chun dul le réimse téamaí. Is aoibhinn TIME OF GOING TO PRESS)
liom an scéilín seo mar gheall ar an íomhá shoiléir a chruthaítear in aigne an
léitheora leis na focail atá scríofa agus leis na cinn nach bhfuil. [DNÍC]

MIGUEL DE CERVANTES RETOLD BY MARTIN JENKINS,

ILLUSTRATED BY CHRIS RIDDELL
DON QUIXOTE
WALKER BOOKS 2009, £16.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781844287475

Inspired by books of chivalry, an old country gentleman becomes convinced that

he is Don Quixote de la Mancha, a famous knight-errant, and embarks on a series
of comic (mis)adventures with his faithful squire, Sancho Panza. Jenkins’ adap-
tation captures the wit and spirit of Cervantes’ novel in simple, consistent prose
that can be appreciated by readers of all ages. Riddell’s vibrant illustrations blur
the lines between fantasy and reality, allowing the reader access to Don Quixote’s
imagined world of giants, enchanters, and damsels in distress. [KH]

GENNIFER CHOLDENKO
AL CAPONE SHINES MY SHOES
BLOOMSBURY, SEPT 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781408801550

Choldenko’s second historical novel features Moose and his family living on
Alcatraz Island in 1935. Famous inmate Al Capone gets Moose’s sister
Natalie into a special needs school on the mainland, but Moose soon learns
that every favour must be repaid. Friendships are complicated and he finds it
is impossible to placate everyone. In a suspense-filled and historically accu-
rate novel, Moose and his friends become entangled in an escape attempt.
With diverse characters and a captivating storyline, this book is highly recom-
mended for all readers. [LC] READ ALSO: Al Capone Does My Shirts

SE CONNOLLY ILLUSTRATED BY AXEL RATOR

DAMSEL
MERCIER PRESS 2009, F8.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781856356183

A most enchanting story where some stereotypes are turned on their heads
and dealt with with a great sense of humour. The main character, Annie Brave,
is expected to become a damsel when she grows up, but is forced to act as a
hero because ‘there were no heroes available’. With the help of her father’s
unfinished ‘Guide to Hero Training’, she embarks on a journey that will bring
her to face not only dragons but her own destiny. [AF]

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 27
Age 9-12
KIERAN MARK CROWLEY
COLM & THE LAZARUS KEY
MERCIER PRESS 2009, F8.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781856356466

Bickering detectives and shadowy crime lords descend on the Red House
Hotel, where Colm and his family are reluctant guests. Colm quickly realises
that things are not what they seem, and that unless he can unravel the
mystery first, they will be overcome by the curse of the Lazarus Key. Set in
Ireland, this is a fast-paced, supernatural thriller for kids, with lashings of
humour, particularly between Colm and his bullying, love-sick cousin The
Brute. A sure hit for anyone who enjoys a good mystery. [CL]

JUDI CURTIN
ALICE TO THE RESCUE
THE O’BRIEN PRESS, SEPT 2009, F7.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847171757

Megan doesn’t want her best friend to go to France and leave her alone for
four months. However, after she makes a wish that Alice will have to stay in
Limerick, even she is surprised by the consequences! This is a touching story
about the ways friendship can fix even the most seemingly difficult problems.
With delightful characters and mini-adventures along the way, this is a
perfectly heartfelt story that all pre-teen and teenage girls can relate to. [ML]
READ ALSO: Alice and Megan Forever

KATE DICAMILLO ILLUSTRATED BY YOKO TANAKA

THE MAGICIAN’S ELEPHANT
WALKER BOOKS, SEPT 2009, £8.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781406324471

Newbery Medal-winner, DiCamillo has created a magical, lyrical and haunting tale
about an orphaned boy at the end of the 19th century in a city called Baltese. The
prose is formal and old fashioned, yet easy and flowing. The full-page black and
white illustrations are mysterious and atmospheric. When an elephant magically
appears, it brings both despair and hope. This is a story about trusting the
unexpected, striving for the impossible, and about the effects and futility of
war. A beautifully written and memorable story. [PO’D] READ ALSO: Because of
Winn-Dixie; The Tale of Despereaux SEE ALSO: www.TheMagiciansElephant.com

CHRIS D’LACEY
DARK FIRE
ORCHARD BOOKS 2009, £12.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781846169540, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781846169557

The fifth and longest book in the popular Fire Within series continues David
Rain’s epic adventures as he is sent to destroy the remaining traces of dark
fire, the deadliest force in the universe. This quest will involve the terrible
choice of sacrificing a Clay Dragon in order to stop the rise of a Darkling.
Although the multiple storylines would bewilder new readers and the dense
plot occasionally sags, fans of the series will eagerly devour the new instalment
of this mythic fantasy sequence. [PK]

28 BOOKFEST 2009–2010
 Age 9-12
DEBORAH ELLIS
BEYOND THE BARRICADE
OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS 2009, £5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780192727633

Dedicated ‘to those who take liberation into their own hands’, this sequel to
The Prison Runner is based on the author’s interviews with real Bolivians. A
thought-provoking, insightful story about the difficult decisions impoverished
cocaleros must make when the army destroys all the coca leaves, their only
source of income. The blockade of the highway by these coca-farming families
gives Diego a chance to make new friends and to prove his resourcefulness
and courage, but will it cost him his chance to return home? [LMo]
READ ALSO: The Breadwinner; Mud City

MORRIS GLEITZMAN
THEN
PUFFIN BOOKS 2009, £5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780141324821

After escaping persecution and death in Once, 10-year-old Jewish Felix treks
through the Nazi-occupied Polish countryside to temporary refuge but constant
terror. Gleitzman threads grey through a time that’s so easily spun in black and
white. There’s the farmer who grew up hating Jews and saves Felix’s life; the reluc-
tant Hitler Youth member, and Zelda, the six-year-old daughter of Nazis, for whom
Felix would die. Gleitzman’s aim – ‘to grasp the unimaginable with my imagina-
tion’ – is superbly achieved in this wonderful book. [DT] READ ALSO: Once

MARK HADDON
BOOM!
DAVID FICKLING, SEPT 2009, £14.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781846577352

It’s hard to fathom how Mark Haddon gets away with this ‘I was abducted by
aliens’ plotline. But he pulls it off with wit and gusto. When Jimbo and Char-
lie eavesdrop on a conversation in the staffroom they are drawn into a
hair-raising yet hilarious mystery, complete with secret codes, teachers with
tails and a spider called Britney. Boom! is an audacious delight for anyone
who’s ever set foot in a classroom. [DT]
READ ALSO: The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time

FRANCES HARDINGE
GULLSTRUCK ISLAND
MACMILLAN 2009, £10.00 (HBK), ISBN 9781405055383

Arilou is one of the Lost, a seer who can leave her body, and mind-fly across
the land. When Gullstruck Island’s officials come to test her powers, Arilou
and her sister Hathin find themselves at the centre of a deadly conspiracy.
With this fast-paced and original novel, Frances Hardinge has created a world
so like our own that we believe the story totally. Yet, it is so different that we
also give ourselves over to the fantasy. Brilliant adventure, memorable charac-
ters, an utter joy to read. [MEJ]

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 29
Age 9-12
AJ HEALY
TOMMY STORM AND THE GALACTIC KNIGHTS
QUERCUS, NOV 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847247551

AJ Healy brings back Tommy Storm in the next instalment of this humorous
science-fiction series. The unlikely hero is back to save the universe with the
help of his unusual friends and fellow Galactic Knights from the Milky Way.
Healy puts a futuristic twist on today’s culture while maintaining a thought-
provoking narrative. This fun and imaginative world with plenty of action and
adventure leaves us looking forward to Tommy Storm 3 to find out what happens
next! [CA] READ ALSO: Tommy Storm SEE ALSO: www.tommystorm.com

FE HIGGINS
THE EYEBALL COLLECTOR
MACMILLIAN 2009, £8.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780230532281

Another wonderful story from FE Higgins, set in the dark and dismal city of
Urbs Umida. It tells the sorry tale of Hector’s quest for revenge against a
shallow, greedy villain who has a taste for expensive glass eyes. It has every-
thing a swashbuckling adventure could need – poisonings, mystery, riddles,
butterflies, you name it, with a smattering of grisly bits thrown in. An impres-
sively imaginative book that will delight new and existing fans alike. [CL]

ROSE IMPEY
6 FEET DEEP
ORCHARD BOOKS, DEC 2009, £5.99 (PBK), ISBN 781846162855

Most teenagers find their parents’ normal behaviour mortifying, but what if
your relative is prepared to spend the longest time possible in a Perspex box
underground? Divided between disapproval and loyalty to his mother, Jordan
just wants everything back to normal. His discomfiture as he struggles to deal
with the fallout from his mother’s record bid can, at times, seem a little unre-
lenting. But that said, this is an entertaining, inventive read; there’s plenty
here to empathise with for children putting up with embarrassing parents. [SB]
READ ALSO: Introducing Scarlet Lee

GARETH P JONES
THE THORNTHWAITE INHERITANCE
BLOOMSBURY 2009, £5.99 (PBK) ISBN 9780747599821

Orphaned twins Ovid and Lorelli Thornthwaite are trying to kill each other. They
have been continuously plotting and scheming to dispatch each other in
complex and dastardly ways for so long that no one can really remember how it
all began. However, some new information about their parents’ death forces
them to think differently about their relationship. Part murder mystery, part
crime caper, this is a pacey and entertaining read, ideal for those who enjoy all
things gothic. [MW] READ ALSO: Lemony Snicket: A Series of Unfortunate Events

30 BOOKFEST 2009–2010
 Age 9-12
EMMA KENNEDY
WILMA TENDERFOOT AND THE CASE OF THE FROZEN HEARTS
MACMILLAN 2009, £5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780330469517

Wilma Tenderfoot is not one for taking no for an answer. Unknown and unwanted,
hapless and unloved, she lives at the Institute for Woeful Children. Yet, she
dreams of one day becoming a great detective like her hero, Theodore P Goodman
and discovering the secrets of her own past. Headed by the accident-prone
Wilma and her beagle Pickle, who keeps eating all the clues, this quirky cast
of characters and funny tale is sure to appeal to any budding detective fans. [RC]

SUZANNE LAFLEUR
LOVE, AUBREY
PUFFIN BOOKS 2009, £9.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780141326870

Aubrey finds herself in a scary and tragic situation. Being alone is fun at first,
until she is found by her Gram and they are forced to face the reality of her
situation. Love, Aubrey is a story that combines tragedy, family and friendship
in a straightforward sense. Suzanne LaFleur tells this tale from the perspec-
tive of an 11-year-old dealing with issues that are bigger than herself. Strictly
for mature readers, this story will bring on laughter and tears within pages of
each other. 11+ [ML]

DEREK LANDY
SKULDUGGERY PLEASANT: THE FACELESS ONES
HARPERCOLLINS, SEPT 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780007302161

The nation’s favourite skeleton detective is back again and this time he may
have finally met his match. Forced to operate outside the official remit of the
Sanctuary, Skulduggery, Valkyrie, et al must adopt ever more temerarious tactics
as they race to avert the apocalyptic arrival of the dreaded Faceless Ones. Once
more Landy exhibits his mastery of desert-dry dialogue, which combined with
inventive characterisation and turbo-charged narrative delivers a fantastically
entertaining read. [TD] READ ALSO: Skulduggery Pleasant: Playing with Fire
SEE ALSO: www.skulduggerypleasant.com

LOIS LOWRY
THE WILLOUGHBYS
BOXER BOOKS, SEPT 2009, £9.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781906250966

The Willoughby children, like any self-respecting old-fashioned family, have

certain priorities: becoming orphans, saving abandoned babies, recruiting a
forever-baking nanny, and, most importantly, ensuring that all ends happily ever
after! Lois Lowry has created a wonderfully whimsical tale which both apes and
celebrates the quirks and clichés of times gone by. A glossary of archaic words
and bibliography of classic texts adds a further dimension to this affectionate
and highly amusing pastiche. [TD] SEE ALSO: www.loislowry.com

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 31
Age 9-12

TADHG MAC DHONNAGÁIN MAISITHE AG KIERON BLACK

OISÍN
AN GÚM 2008, F8.00 (BOG) ISBN 9781857917420

Scéal stairiúl é an scéal seo atá bunaithe ar na scéalta Fiannaíochta agus a

thugann cur amach do pháistí maidir le nósanna, tréithe fathrúnda, agus ré na
Fiannaíochta. Tugann an scéal le fios don léitheoir conas mar a tháinig Oisín,
mac le Fionn, ar an saol, agus conas mar a fuair Oisín a ainm. Cabhraíonn na
léaráidí le ciall na diamhrachta, atá riachtanach i scéal mar seo, a threisiú os
rud é go bhfuil an scéal féin curtha i láthair i stíl nósúil fhíorasach. [RÓC]

MICHAEL MORPURGO
RUNNING WILD
HARPERCOLLINS 2009, £12.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780007267019

After his father dies, Will and his mother travel to Indonesia. Will realises his
dream of riding on an elephant, when the tsunami strikes. The story centres
on Will’s struggle for survival with only the elephant and other jungle animals for
company. Forced to rely on his inner resources, Will comes to terms with his grief,
cares for the animals and finds the courage to withstand hardship. A reflective
coming-of-age story, with lots of action and suspense, which will appeal to animal-
lovers and thrill-seekers alike. [SKK] SEE ALSO: www.michaelmorpurgo.org

TRIONA NÍ LIONÁIN MAISITHE AG PETER DONNELLY

CARRAIG NA CAILLÍ
AN GÚM 2009, F10.19 (BOG), ISBN 9871857917369

Mam imithe ag obair, Daid sa leaba tar éis oíche ar an bhfarraige sa bhád
tarrthála agus gach rud curtha i dtreo don lá mór iascaireachta a bhí beartaithe.
Géilleann Colm don chathú dul amach sa bhád ina aonar. Tugann sé aghaidh
ar Charraig na Caillí ainneoin a dhainséirí agus atá sé agus leanann eachtraí
as sin a shasóidh léitheoir óg. Tá rialacha farraige agus go leor eolais faoi
chleachtais shábháilte ar an bhfarraige sa scéal agus tagann an líníocht agus
na mothúcháin a léirítear go breá leis. [DUÍG]

LÁRA NIC OIREACHTAIGH MAISITHE AG AN t-ÚDAR

CÁ BHFUIL TÚ, A PHÁDRAIG?
AN GÚM 2009, F15.00 (CRUA), ISBN 9781857917482

Suíomh comhaimsire, a bhaineann le tógáil mótarbhealach M3 in aice le

Teamhair, ceann de bhuanna an scéil seo. Úsáidtear an suíomh chun nasc
sách cliste a dhéanamh idir shaol Aoife agus lucht na hagóide atá ag gearán
faoi thógáil an bhóthair agus seanscéal Naomh Pádraig mar a bhain leis an
gceantar sin. Cuidíonn na léaráidí móra agus an léarscáil leis an ngné
comhaimsire a bhéimniú. Is ó Phádraig féin a thagann úsáid nua don tseam-
róg chun cabhrú leo an fhadhb a réiteach. [DUÍG]

32 BOOKFEST 2009–2010
 Age 9-12
JOE O’BRIEN
FÉILE FEVER
THE O’BRIEN PRESS 2009, F7.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847171733

Despite gaining promotion to Division 1, Danny’s team the Littlestown Crokes are
struggling. When their full forward is injured just weeks before the all-important
Féile, they turn to their newest recruit, an Aussie Rules player, to turn their
season around. However, Todd is not all he seems. Can they succeed? O’Brien’s
authentic depiction of exciting match action will be enjoyed by all young GAA
fans and is accompanied by some more serious family problems. An appropriate
read for the GAA’s 125th anniversary year. [LC] READ ALSO: Little Croker

MARGARET PETERSON HADDIX

THE MISSING, BOOK ONE: FOUND
HODDER 2009, £5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780340970669

The first of a seven part series by acclaimed author Margaret Peterson Haddix,
this is a fast paced, science-fiction mystery story. Centred on adopted kid,
Jonah, his friend Chip, and sister Katherine, the book launches a series without
taking away from the story. Time travel, FBI conspiracy, disappearing people
and planes are all combined with issues of identity and destiny to make this
book an exciting and nerve-wracking read with a great cliffhanger! [CA]
READ ALSO: The Missing, Book Two: Sent

MARCUS SEDGWICK ILLUSTRATED BY PETE WILLIAMSON

THE RAVEN MYSTERIES, BOOK ONE: FLOOD AND FANG
ORION 2009, £7.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781842556924

Part Addams Family, part Sherlock Holmes, this new series of hair-raising
mystery stories will have young sleuths hooked from the outset. In this first instal-
ment, Sedgwick introduces us to the ghoulish Otherhand family and the
eccentric goings-on of their castle home. Narrated in the first person by Edgar –
pet Raven detective extraordinaire – the tone is appealingly light and accessible,
Williamson’s creepy illustrations adding just the right measure of expression and
humour. Highly recommended. [TD] SEE ALSO: www.marcussedgwick.com

SHAUN TAN
TALES FROM OUTER SUBURBIA
TEMPLAR PUBLISHING 2009, £12.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781840113136

In 15 short tales (some all in pictures), author-illustrator Shaun Tan depicts

life in the enigmatic Outer Suburbia: the visit of a foreign exchange student,
the rage of an irritable neighbour who breaks toys that stray into her garden,
the domestication of ballistic missiles… Tan’s tone is often slightly distant,
creating a sense of the past, of a world familiar yet unfamiliar; sometimes
lightly nostalgic, sometimes verging on the menacing, but always melding word
and picture to make a glorious, imaginative experience for his readers. [VC]

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 33
Age 9-12
VICTOR WATSON
PARADISE BARN
CATNIP PUBLISHING, SEPT 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781846470912

It’s September 1940 in the English village of Great Deeping. Despite the shadow
of war and ongoing aerial battles overhead, life seems straightforward. Then a
violent murder shatters the veneer of calm. Best friends Molly and Abigail along
with Adam, a recent evacuee from London, become embroiled in solving the
mystery. This coming-of-age story, combining rich historical detail with suspense
and adventure, effectively depicts how suspicion and prejudice can challenge the
bonds of friendship and community during a time of conflict. [PK]

ROSEMARY WELLS ILLUSTRATED BY PJ LYNCH

LINCOLN AND HIS BOYS
CANDLEWICK PRESS 2009, £9.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780763637231

In the bicentennial year of Abraham Lincoln’s birth, this is a family portrait

from the perspective of two of his sons covering a period before and after his
election as US president. It is well researched and captures the social history
of the period and life in the White House with child’s eye detail. PJ Lynch’s
meticulous, realistic images reveal the close, warm relationship Lincoln had
with his boys. Any child with an interest in history, America, and particularly
its presidents will be fascinated. [AO’D] SEE ALSO: www.pjlynchgallery.com
Age 12-14
EDITOR’S CHOICE
MARCUS SEDGWICK
REVOLVER
ORION 2009, £9.99 (HBK), 1SBN 9781842551866

Revolver is a spellbinding tale of suspense. Left alone with his dead father, Sig is
in shock, when there’s a knock on the door. Set in the Arctic Circle in 1910, Sedg-
wick cleverly weaves the story back and forth, allowing events to unfold. Can Sig
solve the mystery and save his family? Revolver is beautifully written, providing
breathtaking descriptions of the landscape, and capturing the greed, desolation
and desperation of the last of the Alaskan gold rushes. A powerful read, almost
cinematic in its imagery. [SQ] READ ALSO: My Swordhand is Singing; The Kiss of
Death; Blood Red, Snow White SEE ALSO: www.marcussedgwick.com

RANDA ABDEL-FATTAH
WHERE THE STREETS HAD A NAME
SCHOLASTIC 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781407112145

Hayaat’s Palestinian grandmother dreams of seeing the soil of her old home in
Israeli-occupied Jerusalem. Hayaat risks passing checkpoints and crossing the
Segregation Wall to collect some, so her grandmother might have peace. Set in
contemporary Occupied Palestinian Territories, this wonderful book gives a fascinat-
ing insight into the difficulties of life in a land under occupation. Hayaat, herself a
scarred victim of an Israeli bullet, is an indomitable protagonist whose humour helps
her get through. An important book. [JM] READ ALSO: Ten Things I Hate About Me

SARAH REES BRENNAN

THE DEMON’S LEXICON
SIMON & SCHUSTER 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847382894

This sophisticated novel features a plot which moves upwards, downwards and
sideways, twisting and turning in numerous unpredictable directions. At its
centre is an engrossing tale of two teenage brothers on the run with their mother,
as they try to evade the clutches of a sinister circle of magicians. The potent
blend of magic, necromancy and demonology provides the material for a novel
guaranteed to appeal to fans of gothic fantasy. [RDu]

MEG CABOT
THE PRINCESS DIARIES: TEN OUT OF TEN
MACMILLAN, OCT 2009, £9.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780330450584

This final volume finds Princess Mia turning 18 and about to leave school.
Mia faces many issues that teenagers will relate to – exams, boy trouble, the
intricacies of female friendship, pressure to please her parents. While the plot
is a little predictable, Mia is an engaging heroine and the final outcome, tying
up all the loose ends, is extremely satisfying. [CMcV] READ ALSO: The Princess
Diaries: 1–9 SEE ALSO: www.megcabot.co.uk; www.miathermopolis.com

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 35
Age 12-14
DEAN VINCENT CARTER
BLOOD WATER
CORGI 2009, £5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780552555739

The action is immediate, drawing you in straight away and does not abate in
this pacy horror. Sean is the accidental hero, as he witnesses a slug-like crea-
ture claim its first victim, and recruits his brother to help destroy it. Amid a
backdrop of apocalyptic flooding, much gory murder and mayhem ensues, as
they try to stop the mysterious creature and find out what it really wants. Ideal
for a reluctant reader, who likes the non-stop action of a computer game, and
plenty of gore. [CMcV] READ ALSO: The Hunting Season; The Hand of the Devil
SEE ALSO: www.deanvincentcarter.com

SUZANNE COLLINS
THE HUNGER GAMES
SCHOLASTIC 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781407109084

Would you watch a reality TV show where children fight each other to the death?
Katniss wasn’t given the choice. Chosen by lottery, she is thrown in to the
Hunger Games, televised across the nation of Panem, where she must kill twelve
other children to win her freedom. Suzanne Collins delivers suspense and blis-
tering action, while committing to a harsh portrayal of the necessary violence.
Crossing adventure, science fiction, politics and romance, this is an exceptional
discussion of government control and our obsession with reality TV. [DC]
READ ALSO: Catching Fire: book two of ‘The Hunger Games’ trilogy

SARAH DESSEN
LOCK & KEY
PUFFIN BOOKS 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9870141324937

Life has not been kind to Ruby Cooper. Abandoned by her mother, her world is
transformed when she goes to live with her long-lost sister. Suddenly she has
everything she has learnt to live without – love, security, a proper home, and
friendship with Nate, the boy next door. So why is escaping the only thing she
can think about? A compelling read – Ruby’s journey from fierce independ-
ence to realising it’s okay to let people in is beautifully evoked. [NMaB]
READ ALSO: Just Listen; The Truth about Forever

JULIA DONALDSON
RUNNING ON THE CRACKS
EGMONT 2009, £6.99 PBK, ISBN 9781405222334

The Gruffalo writer Julia Donaldson’s first teen novel tells the story of two
unhappy teenagers. Fourteen-year-old Leo’s parents have been killed in a
plane crash, and Finlay’s parents are caring but intrusive. Finlay, a Glaswe-
gian, befriends Leo and helps her to find her estranged Chinese family. The
picture of Glasgow and its people is very authentic and attractive. The narra-
tive form, however, is imbalanced and certain devices slow the action, in what
promised to be a taut thriller. [CK]

36 BOOKFEST 2009–2010
 Age 12-14
PAULINE FISK
FLYING FOR FRANKIE
FABER & FABER 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780571236190

Two young girls growing up on opposite banks of the river form an unlikely bond.
For Charis Watts, Frankie Bradley’s friendship is a thrilling counterpoint to a life
of painful ordinariness and the worries of her own home life. When privileged
Frankie becomes ill, Charis attempts to fulfil the most challenging of her friend’s
dying wishes. Unfortunately, the book’s tendency to glamorise terminal illness
makes for a mawkish read that may, of course, be just the thing for a particular
type of pre-teenage girl. [KMcG] READ ALSO: Sabrina Fludde; Midnight Blue

ROSEMARY HAYES
PAYBACK
FRANCES LINCOLN 2009, £6.99, (PBK), ISBN 9781845079352

Taking us from Pakistan to London this is a prevalent story about Halima, a young
Muslim girl, whose life is turned upside down when she discovers she has been
promised in marriage to someone she has never met for the repayment of an old
debt. As frank as it is compelling, Payback is written with an honesty that is
wonderfully familiar and genuine. This book will ignite in any young reader the
passion and right to choose their own destiny and to follow their heart. [CO’C]

JULIE HEARN
ROWAN THE STRANGE
OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS 2009, £10.99 ISBN 9780192792150

Set in World War II, 13-year-old Maurice Rowan Scrivener suffers from panic
attacks and subsequent behaviour that endangers him and those around him.
His family take him to a mental institution for treatment. The story shifts to
life inside and the loveless treatment of patients. Electric shock treatment is
administered experimentally to the forgotten patients, and serves as academic
research. The book focuses on our ability to make a heart connection in
extreme circumstances. Written in an engaging style. For mature readers. [CC]
READ ALSO: The Merrybegot

MARY HOFFMAN
TROUBADOUR
BLOOMSBURY 2009, £10.99, (PBK), ISBN 9780757492518

Troudabour is a tale of war and love, set during the Crusades in Southern
France in 1209, where to own land and to disbelieve were fatal agitators of the
Catholic Church. It follows Elinor, a young noblewoman, who rather than settle
for a prearranged marriage becomes a minstrel and flees her home, and
Bertran, the troubadour who courageously travels the land singing songs warn-
ing of war and helping all around him. A window opens at a time in history that
will both captivate and intrigue young minds. [CO’C] READ ALSO: Stravaganza
City of Secrets; The Falconer’s Knot SEE ALSO: www.maryhoffman.co.uk

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 37
Age 12-14
ANTHONY HOROWITZ
THE POWER OF FIVE, BOOK FOUR: NECROPOLIS
WALKER BOOKS 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781406321081

When Scarlet is pulled through a portal she is thrown into the fight against
the Old Ones. As she learns of her powers and the epic fight surrounding
her, Matt and his friends must travel across the world to Hong Kong, to find
Scarlet and unite the five. Horowitz never fails to impress with excellent
dialogue and slick action. Brilliantly written and a great set-up for the final
instalment. [DC] READ ALSO: More Bloody Horowitz, Raven’s Gate
SEE ALSO: www.powerof5.co.uk

GERRY HUNT
BLOOD UPON THE ROSE: EASTER 1916
THE O’BRIEN PRESS, OCT 2009, F12.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781874170897

Hunt’s graphic novel representation of the events of the Easter Rising follows
a traditional Republican narrative. A certain level of knowledge is presumed,
and perhaps a glossary and chronology would be useful. Illustrations are
bright and appealing, and the dramatis personae are instantly recognisable
from period photographs. The action proceeds at a good pace, even if at times
it veers into Boy’s Own territory, and all told is an enjoyable read. [MB]
READ ALSO: Outlaw: The Legend of Robin Hood by Tony Lee

NICK LAKE
THE SECRET MINISTRY OF FROST
SIMON & SCHUSTER 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847383099

Half Inuit, half Irish and heir to an enormous estate, newly orphaned Light is
the fascinating central character in The Secret Ministry of Frost. She sets off
to find her father, who is missing and presumed dead in the Arctic, and soon
discovers that she has unsettling links with Inuit folklore.
Part mystery, part fantasy and part adventure, Lake deftly brings both the
characters and the Arctic landscape to life, and delivers a gripping plot that
keeps you guessing. Highly recommended! [RDo]

YS LEE
THE AGENCY: A SPY IN THE HOUSE
WALKER BOOKS 2009, £6.99, (PBK), ISBN 9781406315165

‘Agent’ Mary Quinn, a young girl rescued from the gallows, is taken to Miss
Scrimshaws Academy for Girls, aka ‘The Agency’, where she becomes a
trainee detective. Mary’s first employment is with a rich merchant family, the
Thoralds, where deception and dark secrets begin to unfold. The story builds
to an exciting climax, as Mary’s own dark secrets are revealed. Colourful and
action packed, a stand-alone adventure, but leaves you looking forward to the
next episode in this Victorian detective trilogy. [AN] SEE ALSO: www.yslee.com

38 BOOKFEST 2009–2010
 Age 12-14
SOPHIE MASSON
THE MADMAN OF VENICE
HODDER 2009, £5.99 (PBK), IBSN 9780340883655

A missing girl, a powerful countess, a plague of pirates and a madman, who

roams the streets of Venice searching for his lost love. When an English
merchant, his daughter and his young clerk come to the magical city to inves-
tigate the mystery, they could never have imagined the places they’d visit or
the many people involved. Masson creates a hypnotic tale that will hold your
attention from start to finish. Set in 1602, The Madman of Venice is a
romance, an adventure and a mystery. [IO’D] READ ALSO: Malvolio’s Revenge

GERALDINE MCCAUGHREAN
THE DEATH DEFYING PEPPER ROUX
OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS, OCT 2009, £12.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780192756022

Great writing, fantastic, slightly subversive humour: this charming story, by an

award-winning author, has it all. Pepper Roux’s adventures see him captaining
a ship, rustling horses and defying a death predicted for him at 14. The char-
acters spring to life from awful and ridiculous Aunt Mireille to the camp, red
satin-wearing ship’s steward, Duchesse, and the wonderful Pepper himself. A
thrilling adventure, edgy and quirky but with broad appeal. [PMCG]
READ ALSO: Peter Pan in Scarlet SEE ALSO: www.geraldinemccaughrean.co.uk

OISÍN MCGANN
THE EVIL EYE
BARRINGTON STOKE 2009, £5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781842996317

The evil emperor Balor uses his magical eye to incinerate his enemies. The
young warrior Lug seeks revenge for his father’s death and sets out to kill the
mighty Balor. A no-nonsense interpretation of the Tuatha Dé Danann legend,
The Evil Eye even features some wry humour. The battle sequences are gritty
and realistic and the violence handled with stark brutality. Great action and
very accessible for reluctant readers. [DC] READ ALSO: Daylight Runner

OISÍN MCGANN
THE WISDOM OF DEAD MEN
CORGI, SEPT 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780552558655

In an alternative 19th century, Berto Wildenstern has become The Patriarch,

head of Ireland’s most powerful family. And if he wasn’t busy enough avoiding
a nasty death at the hands of relatives eager for his position, he now has a
mystery to solve. Women are dying in strange fires and Berto and his younger
brother Nate must figure out the cause. With strange mechanical animals
(engimals), mafia-like intrigue and treachery at every turn, McGann’s sequel to
Ancient Appetites delivers on every level. Highly recommended. [DC]
READ ALSO: Under Fragile Stone

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 39
Age 12-14
SOPHIE MCKENZIE
THE ONE AND ONLY
SIMON & SCHUSTER 2009, £5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9871416917359

The final book in the All About Eve trilogy. Eve’s tyrannical father has sent her
away to a strict convent school. Luke misses her badly, and turns to another
girl for comfort. But when Eve returns, she is devastated to discover that he
has been with someone else. Can Luke save their relationship? Fast-moving
and entertaining – McKenzie has captured male teenage angst perfectly.
[NMaB] READ ALSO: Six Steps to a Girl; Three’s a Crowd

JANE MITCHELL
CHALKLINE
WALKER BOOKS 2009, £5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781406315172

Chalkline tells the gripping story of Rafiq, taken from his family and recruited
as a boy soldier to fight for the freedom of Kashmir. Rafiq undergoes a startling
transformation from nine-year-old child to fanatical believer. His sister refuses
to give up hope that he will return, and her story runs parallel to his emphasis-
ing the contrast in their daily lives. Mitchell deals sensitively with difficult
issues of family and identity in this heartbreaking and uplifting book. [RDo]

ROBERT MUCHAMORE
THE ESCAPE
HODDER 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780340956489

Charles Henderson, one of the few British spies left in Paris during World
War II, enlists the help of Marc, a 12-year-old on the run from a brutal orphan-
age, in searching for Rosie and Paul, two English children fleeing from the
Germans. They also must get to Henderson with blueprints their father has
stolen for a portable radio. As they embark on a dangerous journey, it comes
apparent that maybe working undercover they can help win the war. Descriptive
and well researched. A gripping clever read! [AN]
READ ALSO: Eagle Day; Secret Army; Brigands MC and the rest of the CHERUB
series SEE ALSO: www.cherubcampus.com; www.hendersonsboys.com

APRILYNNE PIKE
WINGS
HARPERCOLLINS 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780007314362

Aprilynne Pike’s debut, Wings, is an excellent read for any girl in her early teens.
Wings is the first in a series of four books about a seemingly ordinary 15-year-
old girl called Laurel, who is just starting high school. When Laurel discovers
that she is a faerie, it will change her life forever. But how long can she keep this
a secret? Laurel is thrown into an ancient and long battle between faeries and
trolls. I can’t wait to read more of Pike’s exciting series. [SO’D]

40 BOOKFEST 2009–2010
 Age 12-14
CHRIS PRIESTLY ILLUSTRATED BY DAVID ROBERTS
TALES OF TERROR FROM THE TUNNEL’S MOUTH
BLOOMSBURY, OCT 2009, £10.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781408800140

When Robert Harper boards a train to his new school alone, he pays no heed
to his irritating stepmother’s eerie premonition. That is until the train stops at
the mouth of a tunnel, and a strange woman begins to tell Robert extraordi-
nary stories. Unsettling, and chilling, Priestly’s tales are served up with just
the right amount of suspense, pace and thrill to keep a reader wanting more.
A spine-tingling read. Beautifully illustrated throughout. [SQ]
READ ALSO: Uncle Montague’s Tales of Terror; Tales of Terror from the Black Ship

MEG ROSOFF
THE BRIDE’S FAREWELL
PUFFIN BOOKS, SEPT 2009, £10.99 (HBK), ISBN 978014383934

On the morning of her wedding, Pell decides to run away. With only her horse,
Jack, and her brother, Bean, for company, Pell embarks on an exciting journey
that is as perilous and full of uncertainty as it is brave. Along the way, Pell
meets a host of colourful characters, and not only loses, but also finds, more
than she could ever have anticipated. Vivid, intriguing protagonists and
gentle, beautiful prose make this an enchanting and compelling read. [CO’H]
READ ALSO: How I Live Now; Just in Case

DARREN SHAN ILLUSTRATED BY MEL GRANT

DARK CALLING
HARPERCOLLINS 2009, £12.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780007260430

In Shan’s ninth book of the Demonata series, Kernel is a disciple fighting to

prevent demons from entering and destroying our universe. Kernel is taken on
a journey to many different worlds and places, each one more amazing and
strange than the previous. Shan’s vivid imagery and gory detail is recom-
mended for readers 12+. Dark Calling explains many of the mysteries of the
series, and sets up the next and final book. Overall, it’s a fast-paced thrill
ride, with some very original twists. [CQ]

SARAH SINGLETON
THE POISON GARDEN
SIMON & SCHUSTER 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847382979

Set in 1850’s England, this murder-mystery tale details the exciting exploits of
Thomas Reiter, who inherits a magical box, granting him access to a mysterious
garden. The story is rich with complex ‘other dimensions’ and ornate language.
The action scenes are powerful and engaging, however, elaborate passages and
heavy descriptions sometimes slow progress. Strong characterisation with an
intriguing and cleverly constructed plot makes this an enjoyable read with a
highly rewarding conclusion. [JM] READ ALSO: Sacrifice, Out of the Shadows

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 41
Age 12-14
KATE THOMPSON
THE WHITE HORSE TRICK
THE BODLEY HEAD, OCT 2009, F10.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780370329932

This is a lively, busy book from Kate Thompson’s fresh imagination. A seven-
year-old boy’s abduction sets the plot rolling, and the dynamic play between
ploddies and fairies, between a dystopian Ireland and a ‘perpetually perfect’
Tír na nÓg, prompts interesting ideas about climate change, civic
responsibility, music and magic. Thompson’s story, with its biblical and
mythic echoes and mind-grabbing ending, taps into our longing for paradise.
Terrific. [NMacM] READ ALSO: The New Policeman

JENNY VALENTINE
THE ANT COLONY
HARPERCOLLINS 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780007283590

This third novel from the 2007 Guardian Children’s Fiction Prize-winning
author is set in a house of bedsits in a run-down area of London. We get to
know the disparate inhabitants, primarily Sam, a 17-year-old runaway, escap-
ing a wrongdoing, and Bohemia, the 10-year-old daughter of a young
joint-smoking mum. Bohemia helps Sam to see that you can’t escape yourself
just by being in a different place. This is a poignant story with a strong sense
of place, dialogue that rings true and memorable characters. [PO’D]
READ ALSO: Finding Violet Park; Broken Soup

SARAH WEBB
AMY GREEN – TEEN AGONY QUEEN: BOY TROUBLE
WALKER BOOKS 2009, £5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781406316919

Popular chick lit author Sarah Webb’s first foray into teenage fiction. Thirteen-year-
old Amy Green finds herself in the unexpected role of agony aunt to other teenage
girls, when her aunt Clover asks her to help out with her work for a magazine.
From mean kiss-and-tell boys to separated parents, Amy and Clover try to help their
readers cope with all that life throws at them. And Amy learns a lot about herself
along the way. Light, fluffy and fun. [NMaB] SEE ALSO: www.askamygreen.com

VARIOUS AUTHORS
FREE? STORIES CELEBRATING HUMAN RIGHTS
WALKER BOOKS/AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781406318302

This wonderful anthology of 14 stories, contributed by children’s authors from

around the world to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Universal Decla-
ration of Human Rights, celebrates the meaning of freedom in its myriad
forms. With uplifting and positive tales in a wide mix of styles, and including
contributions from Eoin Colfer and David Almond, this eclectic anthology is
sure to have something to appeal to every reader. The stories examine young
people’s experience of freedom and all feature plucky protagonists and
redemptive themes. [JM]

42 BOOKFEST 2009–2010
Age 14 +
EDITOR’S CHOICE
MARIKO TAMAKI ILLUSTRATED BY JILLIAN TAMAKI
SKIM
WALKER BOOKS 2009, £9.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781406321364

Covering a year in the life of Skim, a Japanese-Canadian goth-schoolgirl, this

is a beautiful, funny, insightful graphic novel. Filtered through Skim’s
reflective, hopeful and gently cynical eyes, we witness the frenzy of grief
following a suicide, and crushes, heartbreak and shifting friendships. The
words and the artwork – a pen and ink evocation of both modern Canada and
classical Japanese imagery – merge seamlessly and the dialogue is natural
and believable. No huge events but completely compelling. [HC]

JAY ASHER
THIRTEEN REASONS WHY
PUFFIN BOOKS 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780141328294

After the suicide of Clay’s high school friend Hannah, he receives the tapes she
recorded as a suicide ‘note’ – one for each person she considers instrumental in her
decision to take her life. Clay listens to all thirteen tapes as Hannah reveals, in her
final thoughts, how seemingly small actions can have an effect on other people’s
lives. Thought-provoking without being preachy, this book provides an insight
into the sometimes brutal social lives of teenagers. Compulsive reading. [DK]

BERNARD BECKETT
GENESIS
QUERCUS 2009, £10.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781847247230

In this original thriller, Beckett imagines a post-apocalyptic civilisation wherein

artificial intelligence has come to rival the human mind in the battle for
evolutionary supremacy. The story unfolds through a series of philosophical
dialogues, wherein student Anaximander is required to fundamentally question
what it means to be a living, sentient being. This subject matter is enlivened
by a prose style that serves to both energise and illuminate, ensuring pleasure
and reward for the inquisitive reader. [TD]

JUDY BLUNDELL
WHAT I SAW AND HOW I LIED
SCHOLASTIC 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781407114958

Judy Blundell’s new novel is a sleek noir tale for young adults. Set in the US
in 1947, it’s the story of Evie, a precocious 15-year-old on holiday in Florida.
As her mother Bev and stepfather Joe make new friends, Evie is besotted with
Joe’s old army buddy Pete, little realising that Pete and Bev are having an
affair. Blundell vividly evokes the atmosphere of post-war America, and the
result is a compulsively readable story of a young girl coming face-to-face with
challenging adult realities. [AC]

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 43
Age 14 +
KEVIN BROOKS
KILLING GOD
PUFFIN BOOKS 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780141319124

Dawn Bundy has two dachshunds, an invisible coat, a Jesus and Mary Chain addic-
tion, a missing father and a drink-and-tranquilliser addicted mother. All of these
things are connected. She also has a mission; she’s out for revenge. God made her
father disappear, so she’s going to do her best to return the favour. Brooks’
revelations constantly throw new light on details the reader thinks they know. Harsh
at times, but also funny and humane. [LG] READ ALSO: Black Rabbit Summer

MELVIN BURGESS
NICHOLAS DANE
ANDERSEN PRESS 2009, £10.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781842701812

Set in 1984, this courageous novel takes us into a Dickensian world of exploita-
tion and abuse of vulnerable boys by both society and those mandated to care
for them. Here young inmates are beaten with sickening regularity. Burgess
portrays frankly, but not gratuitously, the brutality which repeatedly results in
blood flowing after canings. More devastating is the depiction of sexual abuse
and its consequences for both individuals and society. The ending, devoid of
the romanticism of easy solutions, exudes human sympathy and hope. [CR]
READ ALSO: Sara’s Face; Bloodtide; Bloodsong

CYLIN BUSBY AND JOHN BUSBY

THE YEAR WE DISAPPEARED
BLOOMSBURY 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781408802014

John Busby’s exceptional true story of being shot on police duty and entering
the witness protection programme will appeal to those interested in detective
fiction, thrillers and memoirs. Narrated by both John and his daughter Cylin,
nine at the time of the events, it seems clear that the shooting is related to
mobster activity in Falmouth, Cape Cod, to which John has refused to turn a
blind eye. The father/daughter team do not flinch from describing violence or
corruption. A gripping and shocking story. [PMcG]

ANNE CASSIDY
JUST JEALOUS
SCHOLASTIC 2009, £5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781407104041

Elly has always had a close relationship with her next-door neighbour Carl,
who seems to enjoy the fact that she fancies him, but never takes things too
far. Elly has never taken any of Carl’s many girlfriends seriously until blonde,
gorgeous Sandy appears on the scene. When she realises that this isn’t going
to be just another quick fling, Elly is determined to break up the couple – but
things quickly go too far. An unsettling tale of obsession and revenge. [AC]
READ ALSO: Looking for JJ; The Dead House

44 BOOKFEST 2009–2010
 Age 14 +
LUCY CHRISTOPHER
STOLEN – A LETTER TO MY CAPTOR
THE CHICKEN HOUSE 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781906427139

In a shocking opening scene, 16-year-old Gemma is drugged and kidnapped

from Bangkok airport by the attractive but sinister Ty. She wakes up alone with
him in an isolated house in the middle of the Australian outback, from which
escape seems impossible. Written in the form of a letter to her captor, Gemma’s
story explores her increasingly complicated feelings for Ty, against the vividly
portrayed, desolate landscape. With disturbing and thought-provoking themes,
this is a hard-hitting read for older teens. [KMcG]

BR COLLINS
A TRICK OF THE DARK
BLOOMSBURY, SEPT 2009, £7.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780747599159

When Zach’s parents take the family to France for the summer they think that
his troubled past will be left behind in England. However Zach’s new home is
not the idyll it initially seems. He is drawn to the dangerous ruin nearby,
despite all the warnings to stay away. Who is the mysterious figure at the ruin,
and why does he follow Zach? This book provides a thrilling glimpse into the
world between life and death and will have the reader gripped throughout. [EF]

NARINDER DHAMI
BANG, BANG, YOU’RE DEAD!
CORGI 2009, £5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780552560436

There have been many horrific instances of school shootings in modern soci-
ety, but what makes Bang, Bang, You’re Dead!, so compelling is that it is told
by Mia, who believes that her twin brother Jamie is responsible. The author
builds the tension superbly and the reader feels as if they are inching their
way along the school corridor towards classroom 9D and the gunman. Short
sharp sentences increase the feeling of hysteria. The ending is completely
unexpected and rather a shock. [KR]

SIOBHAN DOWD
SOLACE OF THE ROAD
DAVID FICKLING 2009, £10.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780385609715

We first meet 15-year-old Holly Hogan/Solace as she stows away on a ferry

bound for Ireland. This is a story of childhood neglect and cruelty, incarceration,
institutional care and foster care. Love and friendship are always transitory
and unstable for Solace. She is filled with rage at her treatment, rage against
the adult world. The journey is well told and tightly plotted. One of Dowd’s
strengths as a writer is her plot mastery. This is a gripping, well-written and
truthful book. [CK]

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 45
Age 14 +
PAUL DOWSWELL
AUSLANDER
BLOOMSBURY 2009, £5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780747589099

In this historical novel set in Nazi Germany, Piotr Bruck is born in Poland to
‘ethnic Germans’. When his parents are killed in an accident, Piotr is moved
to Berlin and adopted by a middle-class, fervently National Socialist family.
The novel turns into a well-paced thriller as he becomes involved with resist-
ance activities. This is a historically accurate picture of German culture and
society under National Socialism. Particularly welcome is the novel’s head-on
engagement with the racial theories that underpinned Nazi ideology. [NM]

GAYLE FORMAN
IF I STAY
DOUBLEDAY 2009, £10.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780385616201

Mia is a promising cellist who has a loving boyfriend and a generous, happy
family. Life is good until she and her family are involved in a catastrophic car
crash. While Mia lies in a coma, she narrates her out-of-body experiences as
she attempts to decide between clawing her way back to a life without her
parents and little brother, or allowing herself to die. Though Mia’s choice is
harrowing, the mood is kept positive by flashbacks to happier times. An inter-
esting novel for mature teenagers. [MC]

LARA FOX
MISS UNDERSTANDING: MY YEAR IN AGONY
HODDER 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780340988824

Sixteen-year-old Anya has moved from a fee-paying school to a comprehensive

after her parent’s acrimonious divorce. She starts an anonymous blog and
becomes the school agony aunt. ‘She tells it like it is’: the problems and advice
are at times sad, hilarious and quite explicit. The language is clever, the refer-
ences to TV, music and so on refreshingly contemporary, loadsa celeb and brand
name drops, txt msgs, etc. The plot takes an interesting swerve where blog and
real life merge. An original, strong new voice in light teen fiction. [PO’D]

ADÈLE GERAS
DIDO
DAVID FICKLING 2009, £12.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780385615174

In Carthage, Queen Dido has built up a glorious city from nothing. She and her
people are happy and prosperous until the arrival of a band of war-torn, storm-
tossed refugees on a mission from the gods brings a love that will lead to
tragedy. Told over the course of a day and a night and from the perspectives of
the court members whose lives will be drastically changed by its events, this
engaging book gives life and immediacy to the legend of Dido and Aeneas. [AW]

46 BOOKFEST 2009–2010
 Age 14 +
HELEN GRANT
THE VANISHING OF KATHARINA LINDEN
PUFFIN BOOKS 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780141325736

Isolated at school, Pia Kolvenbach takes refuge in the scary ghost stories told
by her kindly old neighbour, Herr Schiller. But the real nightmare begins when
10-year-old Katharina Linden disappears without a trace. Determined to solve
the mystery, Pia finds an unlikely partner in her classmate Stefan, and
together they discover a truth more terrifying than any ghost story. With some
interesting characters and a great plot twist at the end, this book will keep
readers enthralled. [EMcG]

GABY HALBERSTAM
THE RED DRESS
MACMILLAN 2009, £5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780330450539

Rifke struggles with the endless rules enforced by her overbearing mother.
After a terrible fight, she decides to escape to her aunt and uncle in Kimber-
ley. But her plan goes terribly wrong. Stuck on the train until the last stop,
she’s now stranded in the South African wilderness for a month. This original
and exciting story perfectly blends the trials of a typical teenager, who longs
to be like her peers, with the stunning backdrop of South Africa. Well worth
the read. [EM] READ ALSO: Blue Sky Freedom

CLAIRE HENNESSY
EVERY SUMMER
POOLBEG PRESS 2009, F7.99 (PBK), ISBN 97818422334

Shy, awkward Alice and her two closest friends – bossy, high-achiever Lynn and
self-contained, beautiful Chloe – are all determined to do something different
with their summers, to break out of their old and increasingly stifling roles.
Over the summer the girls deal with crushes, break-ups, loyalty and betrayal.
Young Dublin author Hennessy has crafted a believable story about the dynam-
ics, tensions and misunderstandings within friendship groups. This is quite a
light read, but one that deals convincingly with real teenage concerns and
preoccupations. [HC] READ ALSO: That Girl; Good Girls Don’t

CELINE KIERNAN
THE CROWDED SHADOWS
THE O’BRIEN PRESS, SEPT 2009, F10.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847171115

This sequel to last year’s The Poison Throne continues the story of Wynter
Moorehawke as she struggles to understand the terrible changes that have
taken place in the Kingdom. In The Crowded Shadows she continues her
search for the rebel Prince Alberon. The book lacks some of the thrilling,
breathless pacing of the first book, but it provides a lot of useful background
information and is a satisfying read. [AS] READ ALSO: The Poison Throne

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 47
Age 14 +
MARGO LANAGAN
TENDER MORSELS
DAVID FICKLING 2009, £12.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780385613231

Tender Morsels is a fascinating new adaptation of the ‘Snow White and Rose
Red’ story. After a traumatic adolescence, Liga Longfield is granted access to
an alternate reality where everything is perfect and where she can bring up her
daughters in peace. But the three women cannot be isolated from the real
world forever. Lanagan takes on a number of dark themes (including rape) and
the plot is often disturbing, but this wonderfully complex, lyrical book is a
worthwhile, though challenging, read. [AS]
READ ALSO: The Best Thing; Touching Earth Lightly

MELISSA MARR
FRAGILE ETERNITY
HARPERCOLLINS 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780007267194

The Faerie Courts are beginning to find their feet in the new regime. Aislinn and
Keenan rule the Summer Court, Niall is now the Dark King, and Donia is the
Winter Queen. The mortal fly in the ointment, however, is Aislinn’s boyfriend
and Niall’s friend, Seth. His presence destabilises all the courts and sooner or
later something will have to change. The third in Marr’s series, the story contin-
ues at a fast pace here, with all the characters needing to make hard decisions
they may yet come to regret. [LG] READ ALSO: Wicked Lovely; Ink Exchange

SOPHIE MCKENZIE
THE FIX
BARRINGTON STOKE 2009, £5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781842996058

Blake loves football and is the best player on his local team. He is overjoyed
when they reach the cup semi-final. However his life is not perfect – his
mother is short of money and struggles to pay the rent. When a stranger offers
Blake the chance to earn some money by losing the cup match, he is torn. Is it
OK to betray the team if it helps his mother? Reluctant teen readers will be
gripped by Blake’s moral dilemma. [EF]
READ ALSO: From Barrington Stoke: The Return of Johnny Kemp by Keith Gray

PATRICK NESS
THE ASK AND THE ANSWER
WALKER BOOKS 2009, £12.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781406310269

The sequel to the winner of both the Tiptree and the Guardian Children’s Book
awards, this continues Todd’s and Viola’s stories, giving them new and ever greater
difficulties to face. Through their actions, both good and bad, they learn that – as
another character says – ‘We are the choices we make’. Caught up in war, they
both find themselves carrying out actions they would have thought impossible. A
compelling, fast-moving read exploring what it is to be an adult, and the impossi-
bility of avoiding hard choices. [LG] READ ALSO: The Knife of Never Letting Go

48 BOOKFEST 2009–2010
 Age 14 +
ÁINE NÍ GHLINN
TROMLUÍ
COIS LIFE 2009, F10.00 (BOG), ISBN 9781901176957

Tá gluaiseacht an-bhreá faoin scéal seo ón tús. Cuireann an malairt cló ar

gach ré píosa le seo sa chaoi nach bhfuil tú cinnte cá bhfuil an tromluí agus
cá bhfuil an gnáthshaol, más ann dó in aon chor. Fágtar an léitheoir le go leor
ceisteanna ag an deireadh ach is aistear an-taitneamhach é, a bhogann go
tapaidh ó eachtra go heachtra, chun an deireadh sin a bhaint amach. B’fhéidir
gur sin is tromluí ann. [DUíG]

ANNA PERERA
GUANTANAMO BOY
PUFFIN BOOKS 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780141326078

While 15-year-old Lancastrian, Khalid, is visiting relatives in Karachi, he is

arrested, tortured and interrogated before being sent to Guantanamo. Perera
doesn’t skimp on the details of his imprisonment and the physical and
emotional torture that he suffers, but there is an understanding in her writing
that nothing is simply black and white. US soldiers are not all tarred with the
same brush and not everyone in Guantanamo is deemed to be innocent, or
guilty. An irrefutable, impeccably paced and rewarding book. [DM]

BALI RAI
CITY OF GHOSTS
DOUBLEDAY 2009, £12.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780385611695

Passion, oppression, revolution, prejudice, loyalty, betrayal and love are all
powerfully evoked in this atmospheric and absorbing historical novel. Set in
Amritsar in Northern India in 1919, this is the story of Sohni, the daughter of
a wealthy merchant, soldier Bissen Singh, and orphans Gurdial and Jeevan.
Although there is a supernatural element to the narrative, it remains plausible
throughout. The plot is centred on the horrific real-life Jallianwala Bagh
Massacre, and provides a fascinating insight into life in colonial India. [CO’H]
READ ALSO: (Un)arranged Marriage; Rani & Sukh

RACHEL WARD
NUMBERS
THE CHICKEN HOUSE 2009, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781905294930

This is a thrilling, fast-paced teen novel, which centres on protagonist Jem’s

ability to see the date of people’s death. The action gathers pace when Jem
and her friend Spider go on the run. Jem’s special ability raises questions
about fate and determinism, but it is the relationship between her and Spider
that makes the reader emotionally invested in the outcome of the story. The
book’s themes are central to teenage experience: change, identity, love; self-
realisation. The result is a thoroughly compelling read. [JH]

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 49
POETRY
EDITOR’S CHOICE
SELECTED BY MICHAEL ROSEN ILLUSTRATED BY PAUL HOWARD
CLASSIC POETRY: AN ILLUSTRATED COLLECTION
WALKER BOOKS 2009, £9.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781406317435

Here are over eighty of the most powerful poems written in the English language,
from Shakespeare to 20th century poets such as Langston Hughes and Judith
Wright. Beautifully designed, with stunning pictures by the artist Paul Howard,
this collection is a hugely informative read. Lively biographical sketches run
alongside each poem, while useful notes grace the back of the book. An imagina-
tive and compelling read, sensitively illustrated, with a passionate introduction by
the editor, this anthology is quite simply a classic. Age 8+ [EW]

GABRIEL FITZMAURICE ILLUSTRATED BY STELLA MACDONALD

G.F. WOZ ERE
MERCIER PRESS 2009, F7.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781856356220

Another zany collection of rhymes addressed to ‘the child in all of us.’ For
‘pre-teens’, this new book is concerned with more serious themes such as
death, loneliness, bullying, first love, difference and hypocrisy. ‘The last thing
to hold onto … far out in the wilds’ (‘A Teddy’s for a Lifetime’), ‘For adults
with sad faces/ Who’ve forgotten how to play’ (‘Adults’), this collection would
make a terrific cross-curricular classroom resource. [JO’H]

ANDY GRIFFITHS ILLUSTRATED BY TERRY DENTON

THE BIG FAT COW THAT GOES KAPOW!
MACMILLAN 2009, £4.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780330456371

This small black and white picturebook contains 10 pieces which are topped and
tailed by the titular ‘Cow that goes Kapow!’ Minimal text accompanies the busy,
detailed illustrations ‘guaranteed’, as it says on the cover, ‘to make reading simple
and fun for all’. This is the tenth collaboration between these two Australian
author/illustrators and would make an excellent classroom resource for the less
confident reader as well as an hilarious read for any young reader. Age 6+ [JO’H]

SELECTED BY PAUL B JANECZKO ILLUSTRATED BY CHRIS RASCHKA

A FOOT IN THE MOUTH: POEMS TO SPEAK, SING, AND SHOUT
CANDLEWICK PRESS 2009, £12.99 (HBK), ISBN 978076306633

This is a lively, wonderfully illustrated book that simply begs you to shout out
loud each poem! There are tongue twisters, rhymed poems, poems for one,
two and three voices, bilingual poems, limericks and poems for a group.
Young readers can revel in the sounds that poetic masters such as Lewis
Carroll, Edwin Morgan, Edward Lear and others have made – or they can even
practise Spanish with Sandra Cisnero’s poem ‘Good Hot Dogs’. A colourful,
fun read for poetic experts and novices alike. Age 7+ [EW]

50 BOOKFEST 2009–2010
 Poetry
SELECTED BY PAUL B JANECZKO ILLUSTRATED BY CHRIS RASCHKA
A KICK IN THE HEAD: AN EVERYDAY GUIDE TO POETIC FORMS
CANDLEWICK PRESS 2009, £9.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780763641320

The poet Robert Frost once remarked that poetry without rules is like tennis
without a net. But poets are a rebellious lot and what makes this collection
fun is not just the way poets abide by but also subvert the rules of poetic form,
so as to remain true to the poem’s spirit. As a result, this collection is an
enthusiastic response to the rules of poetry. Added to this, Chris Raschka’s
wonderful Asian-inspired illustrations make this a rich, imaginative read.
Highly recommended. Age 8+ [EW]

BRIAN MOSES AND JAMES CARTER ILLUSTRATED BY CHRIS GARBUTT

GREETINGS, EARTHLINGS! SPACE POEMS
MACMILLAN 2009, £4.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780330471749

Containing 76 poems of various lengths, this new collection seeks to be

informative and engaging, whilst retaining a comic twist, the hallmark of all
Brian Moses’ work. Correcting myths and raising some serious questions, the
two poets achieve a good balance which is nicely complemented by the illus-
trations. Those familiar with Brian Moses’ work will not be disappointed and
these poems are meant to be played with, the more serious carrying a strong
ecological message. Age 6+ [JO’H]

ALAN MURPHY
THE MONA LISA’S ON OUR FRIDGE
AVANTCARD PUBLICATIONS 2009, F12.50 (PBK), ISBN 9780956173109

What a breath of fresh air! And with a bite to its verse and illustration. This is
a most welcome addition to Irish published (written and produced over a
Lismore bookshop) books for children, for its adventuresome energy, its
delight in words and picture, and the range of its thoughtful meanderings.
Alan Murphy, writer and illustrator, takes a Monty Python route in verse for
young readers. No straight edges and the words, as one poem is titled, all
‘Funk and Jazz’. Irish ME Trust sponsored. Age 10+ [SC]

ÁINE NÍ GHLINN MAISITHE AG CAROL BETERA

BRIONGLÓIDI AGUS AISTIR EILE
CLÓ MHAIGH EO 2008, F8.50 (PBK), ISBN 9781899922499

Bhain cuid de na dánta seo an anáil díom ar a n-úire agus ar a n-áilleacht.

Cuimhníonn ispín go mba mhuicín í tráth; déanann eilifint taibhreamh faoi
chodladh i nead éin; samhlaíonn seilide an leon ag teitheadh roimhe.
Faighimid léargas suntasach i ndánta eile ar intinn agus ar ábhair bhuartha an
pháiste. In ‘Fíorchara’, mar shampla, blaisimid d’uaigneas agus d’easpa
muiníne an pháiste aonair a shantaíonn comhluadar inar féidir leis/léi a
bheith compordach muiníneach. Cnuasach ar leith é seo. Ná caill é. [RÓB]

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 51
Poetry
ART Ó SÚILLEABHÁIN MAISITHE AG ANNIE WEST
HANNAH SA CHRANNTEACH
CLÓ MHAIGH EO 2008, F8.00 (PBK), ISBN 9781899922482

Léimid filíocht sa leabhar seo a bhfuil téamaí comhaimseartha inti.

Cabhraíonn na léaráidí daite le tuiscint an léitheora ar an ábhar. Úsáidtear
rithim go cliste sna dánta sa leabhar seo rud a thaitneoidh go mór le páistí. Tá
éagsúlacht téamaí sa leabhar. Fáilteoidh múinteoirí bunscoile ach go háirithe
roimhe le cur lena stór áiseanna do mhúineadh na Gaeilge. [DNíC]

SELECTED BY ROGER STEVENS ILLUSTRATED BY SARAH NAYLER

THE JUMBLE BOOK
MACMILLAN 2009, £4.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780330468657

Many dyslexic children find it easier to read words written on yellow paper.
Hence, this excellent jumble of short poems is produced on yellow paper.
Though all proceeds from this book go to Dyslexia Action, these are not just
poems for dyslexic children, but for all children to enjoy. There are real poetic
gems here by a talented crew such as John Agard, Brian Moses, Kit Wright,
Michael Rosen and others. Simply produced, fine poetry that will have chil-
dren turning the pages for more. Age 8+ [EW]

FIONA WATERS (ED)

POEMS THEN & NOW
EVANS PUBLISHING 2009, £5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780237538965

Fiona Waters, an accomplished anthologist for young readers, creates a most

rewarding collection of classic and contemporary poetry, stimulatingly
presented in general theme and in pairs: the opening spread has Scott’s ‘The
Nativity Chant’ speaking to Plath’s ‘Morning Song’; later ‘Daffodils’ meets
‘Chickweed’ (Lowbury) and Blake’s ‘Tiger’ is indulged by Gareth Owen’s
‘Moggy in the City’ rooting in dustbins. I have admired this book since its
hardcover publication for what it offers young readers, and its tribute to poetry
itself. Sensitively illustrated. Age 8+ [SC] READ ALSO: Why Does My Mum
Always Iron a Crease in My Jeans? Fiona Waters, editor (Puffin, 2005)

BRIAN WILDSMITH’S
FAVOURITE NURSERY RHYMES
OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS 2009, £8.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780192727664

Brian Wildsmith has written and illustrated more than eighty books for chil-
dren and is considered to be one of the greatest living children’s illustrators.
In this book he selects his favourite nursery rhymes and exuberantly illustrates
them. Nursery rhymes have always served as a powerful early introduction to
poetry. In this book the charm and rhythm of old favourites such as Humpty
Dumpty, Old King Cole, Mary Had a Little Lamb, all imaginatively illustrated,
will surely inspire and delight any reader, young or old. Age 4+ [EW]

52 BOOKFEST 2009–2010
INFORMATION BOOKS
EDITOR’S CHOICE
LEONIE FLYNN, DANIEL HAHN, SUSAN REUBEN (EDS)
THE ULTIMATE BOOK GUIDE
A&C BLACK 2009, £12.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781408104385

This is a brilliant book with hundreds of lively reviews of great books for 8–12
year olds. The books are listed alphabetically by title and the reviews are
interspersed with special features on various genres. There are frequent top
ten lists; for example: top ten funny books. But the most appealing feature for
adults trying to develop a reading culture in their homes, schools or libraries
is the section on what to read next. Books by the same author or in the same
or similar genre are recommended and readers are born! Age 8+ [IB]

ANTHONY ADOLPH
WHO AM I?: THE FAMILY TREE EXPLORER
QUERCUS 2009, £14.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781847245090

This book is designed to encourage children to investigate their personal

history and trace their family tree. It is an excellent source of information,
laden with facts, photos and interactive activities which allow the reader to
become actively engaged in the process. By the end of the book, the reader
will have created their own family tree, through a comprehensive study of their
ancestors. This book is an excellent reference book, highly recommended for
children with a strong interest in this area. Age 8+ [BS]

PHILIP ARDAGH ILLUSTRATED BY MIKE GORDON

HENRY’S HOUSE: BODIES
SCHOLASTIC 2009, £5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781407107172

The Henry’s House series are books which are both factual and fun. In Bodies
we learn lots of weird and wonderful facts about our bodies through Henry’s
encounters with Dr X Ray and other characters who he meets in the different
rooms in his house. We learn everything from how our nose works to how our
body fights germs in an exciting and fun way. Age 7+ [EB]
READ ALSO: Dinosaurs; Creepy Crawlies

NICK ARNOLD ILLUSTRATED BY TONY DE SAULLES

THE HORRIBLE SCIENCE OF YOU
SCHOLASTIC, SEPT 2009, £12.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781407108636

This is another triumph for the very successful Horrible Science series. The
Shrinking Scientists move in with the Normal family and study how the
family’s bodies work. The result is, as usual, zany, irreverent and fascinating.
A difficult topic is rendered intelligible by selecting aspects which appeal to
young readers and which are relevant to their lives. The brightly coloured
comic-book style illustrations are more than half the fun. Age 8+ [IB]
READ ALSO: Wasted World SEE ALSO: www.horrible-science.co.uk

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 53
Information Books
HARRIET BLACKFORD ILLUSTRATED BY BRITTA TECKENTRUP
BIG NOISY BOOK OF DINOSAURS
BOXER BOOKS 2009, £12.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781906250416

Eye-catching, informative and fun, this colourful book and accompanying DVD
are sure to have children entranced. The bright and busy double-page spreads
are filled with the quirky but clever illustrations of Britta Teckentrup. The
book manages to create an informative picture of when dinosaurs roamed the
Earth whilst relating to the modern-day world youngsters will be familiar with.
The DVD is a wonderfully noisy addition which can be viewed scene by scene
in correspondence with the text. A hugely enjoyable book. Age 6+ [JO’L]
SEE ALSO: www.brittateckentrup.com

TERRY DEARY ILLUSTRATED BY MARTIN BROWN

WHO’S HORRIBLE IN HISTORY
SCHOLASTIC 2009, £12.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781407107899

Prepare to meet the top fifty baddies in (British) history: awful assassins,
manic monarchs, ruthless rulers – they are all here in glorious colour. Each
has a double spread with a comic book treatment on the left-hand side and
facts both funny and foul on the right. Most of these baddies came to a pretty
sticky end themselves. Only one chapter on women: Wicked Women of course!
Lovely clear layout, interesting text and lively illustrations, it’s no wonder
these history soundbites sell in their millions. Age 8+ [IB]

MARIA DE FATIMA CAMPOS

VICTORIA GOES TO BRAZIL
FRANCES LINCOLN 2009, £12.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781845079277

This is a very interesting and factual book about a young girl’s visit to Brazil to
learn about the country where her mum was born. It is full of colourful photo-
graphs of her trip which tell of her adventure all by themselves with simple text
to accompany them. It’s perfect for any child interested in other countries and
cultures. Incidentally, Victoria has Down syndrome but that doesn’t stop her
and, quite rightly, there is no reference to her condition in the text. Age 6+ [EB]

ILLUSTRATED BY BRIN EDWARDS, TREVOR BOYER, IAN McNEE

AND IAN JACKSON
NATURETRAIL BOOK OF THE COUNTRYSIDE
USBORNE BOOKS 2009, £12.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781409507291

A very bright and colourful guide to the countryside, crammed with interesting
facts about our wildlife. It explores birdwatching, trees and wild flowers. With
clever illustrations, diagrams, photos and charts it is an attractive and child-
friendly handbook. There are great top-tips and handy hints for exploring the
countryside. A great book for adults and children alike. Age 8+ [SK]
SEE ALSO: www.usborne-quicklinks.com and enter the keyword ‘countryside’

54 BOOKFEST 2009–2010
 Information Books
JO FOSTER ILLUSTRATED BY SCHOULAR ANDERSON
HISTORY SPIES: ESCAPE FROM VESUVIUS
MACMILLAN 2009, £4.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780330449007

History Spies: Escape from Vesuvius provides an interesting and factual insight
into Roman life, AD 79, through the eye of History Spy, Charlie Cartwright. The
reader is brought on an adventurous journey through space and time focusing
primarily on life in the Roman Empire. However, it is by no means an ordinary
history book, as the presentation of written text combined with a wide variety of
illustrations ensures it is a highly enjoyable read, humorous and entertaining.
Age 9+ [BS] READ ALSO: History Spies: Back to the Blitz

ANITA GANERI ILLUSTRATED BY MIKE PHILLIPS

HORRIBLE GEOGRAPHY: PLANET IN PERIL!
SCHOLASTIC 2008, £6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781407105772

Winner of the Blue Peter Book Award, this book is a fantastic resource for any
school interested in reducing their carbon footprint or obtaining a green flag. It
is an informative and funny handbook, which is packed full of planet facts and
practical hints to encourage children to lead a greener life. The information
and tips are given in a fun way, covering all the big green issues, including air
pollution, diminishing fuel resources and global warming. A must read for the
youngest eco-warriors among us. Age 7+ [KE]

ROB LLOYD JONES ILLUSTRATED BY DAVID HANCOCK

SEE INSIDE THE MIDDLE AGES
USBORNE BOOKS 2009, £9.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780746096925

This is a great factual picturebook that focuses on all aspects of life during
the Middle Ages, including a monk’s life, the lord’s life, castle life and market
life to name a few. The pictures are bright and colourful with lift-up flaps to
reveal more about each picture. The flaps also enlarge certain aspects of the
pictures. This book is excellent for individual or shared reading. Age 6+ [JeF]

PENNY ANN LANE

FIRST SHAPES IN BUILDINGS
FRANCES LINCOLN 2009, £11.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781845076955

This book uses iconic buildings, such as the Louvre Museum in Paris and
Rome’s Pantheon, to introduce shape to young children. It takes basic shapes,
such as the square and circle, and illustrates them using photographs of well-
known architectural structures. It is both an original and fascinating way to
develop both shape and architecture for the very young. Beautifully presented
in a way that could cater for a range of interest levels and ability, this is an
excellent resource for both the school and home. Age 4+ [AM]

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 55
Information Books
DIANNE LEUTNER ILLUSTRATED BY DANIEL POSTGATE
REMEMBERING…
THE CHILD BEREAVEMENT CHARITY 2009, £5.00 (PBK), ISBN 9780952166184

This book sensitively deals with the topic of death and would be a helpful
resource when helping a child come to terms with the loss of someone close.
The book when completed by the child, alone or with the help of an adult, will
consist of personal memories of the person. Beautifully laid out, there are
plenty of headings to prompt the child along with some blank spaces for more
specific thoughts and feelings. This book is highly recommended to help at a
difficult time. Age 6+ [AM]

VINCENT MCDONNELL,
THE STORY OF THE GAA
THE COLLINS PRESS 2009, F6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781905172962

This is a very informative book detailing the major events in the history of the
Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA), Ireland’s main sporting organisation. The
book would appeal to both boys and girls aged 10 upwards as it gives a brief
insight into the key figures who have been responsible for the association’s
success since its foundation in 1884 and describes with admiration some of
the great players who have displayed their magnificent skills in front of a
packed Croke Park, Ireland’s most famous sporting landmark. Age 10+ [DR]

HAZEL MASKELL ILLUSTRATED BY ADAM LARKUM

WHAT’S BIOLOGY ALL ABOUT?
USBORNE BOOKS 2009, £8.99 (PBK), 9780746089422

A really interesting book with leading questions that will stimulate a keen
interest in biology. It deals with a wide range of topics from intestines to
insects, meiosis to muscles and seaweed to sweat! It is factual and informa-
tive while being colourful and fun. The artwork and photographs are excellent.
This book would be a hit with 5th and 6th class pupils. Age 10+ [SK]

URMI RAHMAN PHOTOGRAPHS BY PRODEEPTA DAS

B IS FOR BANGLADESH
FRANCES LINCOLN 2009, £11.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781845079185

Using photographs and informative text, this A–Z guide creates a warm,
welcoming impression of Bangladesh. The author’s affection for the
Bangladeshi people and culture is inherent in the intimate portraits of daily
life provided. Its pages are adorned with intricate decorative patterns from
local art. Together with the colourful array of photographs detailing various
aspects of culture, commerce, food and wildlife, Bangladesh is brought vividly
to life for the reader. A valuable resource for project work or as an enjoyable
insight into a fascinating culture. Age 7+ [JO’L]

56 BOOKFEST 2009–2010
 Information Books
DAVE REAY ILLUSTRATED BY ALAN ROWE
YOUR PLANET NEEDS YOU! A KIDS’ GUIDE TO GOING GREEN
MACMILLAN 2009, £4.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780330450959

Superhero Maximus is given a mission by the President of the Earth to stop

the planet from heating up. Along with his two sidekicks, Henry and Flora, he
combats some of the Earth’s worst climate offenders in this quirky, fast-paced
book. Parts of the story are told in comic form, which ensures the book will be
a great hit with younger readers. Add in plenty of gross facts, and tips to
encourage children to ‘Reduce, Reuse, Recycle’, and you’re on to a winner
with this fantastic book. Age 7+ [KE]

ANTHONY ROBINSON & ANNEMARIE YOUNG ILLUSTRATED BY JULIE ALLAN

MOHAMMED’S JOURNEY
FRANCES LINCOLN 2009, £11.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781845076535

This is a true story about a Kurdish boy, Mohammed, who flees Iraq with his
mother to seek asylum in England. The story, told in his own words, outlines
some of the persecutions experienced by the Kurds. It begins with the disap-
pearance of his father, which prompts the family to leave Iraq, and describes the
fear and hardship of their journey to England, where he and his mother were
granted leave to stay in 2002. A poignant and moving account, well worth
reading. Age 10+ [EM] READ ALSO: Hamzat’s Journey: A Refugee Diary

STEWART ROSS
MOON
OXFORD UNIVERSITY PRESS 2009, £14.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780199116911

This book celebrates the historic voyage of Apollo 11 in 1969, outlining each
part of the trip: the preparation, journey, arrival and landing. It also explores the
Moon from many angles looking at its significance in history, literature, art, film
and poetry. Just in time for the 40th anniversary of the date that man first
walked on the Moon, this is a detailed and comprehensive book. Fact filled, it is
an excellent resource for project work and general interest. 10+ [EM]

IVOR SANTER ILLUSTRATED BY LUCY MCCRIRICK

GREEN FINGERS AND MUDDY BOOTS: A YEAR IN THE
GARDEN FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
FLORIS BOOKS 2009, £14.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780863156922

This informative guide to gardening is clear, simple and beautifully illustrated

with both drawings and photographs. Developed in association with the Royal
Caledonian Horticultural Society, it comes with its own CD with downloadable
worksheets. Topics include how plants grow, getting started, creepy-crawlies,
birds and wildlife as well as a seasonal guide to gardening. With step-by-step
activities, as well as useful information, this book would be of great use to
parents, teachers and children. Age 8+ [AM]

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 57
Information Books
ALAN SNOW
HOW DOGS REALLY WORK!
HARPERCOLLINS 2009, £5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780007309917

This is a humorous approach to the inner workings of a dog. It combines humor-

ous text and pictures to teach children how a dog’s body operates. A detailed
key is provided to help navigate around the dog’s body. How Dogs Really Work!
is a fun-filled book ideal for both adults and children alike. Age 6+ [JeF]
SEE ALSO: How Cats Really Work!

JOHN STRINGER
ENERGY
EVANS PUBLISHING IN ASSOCIATION WITH WWF 2009, £7.99 (PBK), ISBN 9780237539207

Part of a series on Sustainable Futures, this is a well-researched authorative

book on the sources of energy both renewable and non-renewable. Interesting
case studies, relevant photographs, fact boxes and quotes support the text
though not in a gimmicky way. This is a serious book more concerned with the
message than the reader and concludes with advice on how to be more energy
efficient. Highly recommended. Age 10+ [IB]
READ ALSO: Waste, Recycling and Reuse

TANYA LEE STONE

ALMOST ASTRONAUTS: 13 WOMEN WHO DARED TO DREAM
CANDLEWICK PRESS 2009, £12.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780763636111

These were exceptional pilots who dreamed about the possibility of becoming
astronauts and showed they had all the necessary skills. They were 13 women
who had the ‘right stuff’. The problem was they were the wrong gender and it
was the wrong time. This engaging book chronicles their story, detailing their
experiences, the prejudice they faced, and how they became role models for
future generations of women in the space industry. A comprehensive reference
book. Age 11+ [EM]

MITCHELL SYMONS ILLUSTRATIONS BY ARTFUL DOODLERS

WHY DO FARTS SMELL LIKE ROTTEN EGGS?
DOUBLEDAY 2009, £7.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780385615617

This is a comical and fascinating book, in which the author Mitchell Symons
gives the answers to some of the world’s most frequently pondered questions:
Why do we burp? Does sugar make kids hyperactive? Is it dangerous to pick a
scab? and Does the Loch Ness Monster really exist? The text is informal in
style and easily followed, ensuring that it would appeal to even the most reluc-
tant of readers. This book would make a great gift for kids who enjoy reading
about weird and wonderful facts. Age 7+ [KE]

58 BOOKFEST 2009–2010
 Information Books
MIKE UNWIN
RSPB NATURE GUIDE
A&C BLACK 2009, £8.99 (PKB), ISBN 9781408105146

This is a fantastic book for nature lovers. It contains seasonal activities and
information as well as a year planner and personalised sections to be completed.
It’s one of those books you would keep close and refer to time and time again. I
learned a lot from this guide and it’s perfect for children who love to explore
nature. (RSPB: Royal Society for the Protection of Birds) Age 7+ [EB]

SYBELLA WILKES
OUT OF IRAQ
EVANS PUBLISHING 2009, £14.99 (HBK), ISBN 9780237539306

Sybella Wilkes is an information officer with the United Nations High

Commission on Refugees. Out of Iraq is primarily a collection of refugees’
stories in words and paintings of Iraqi people exiled in Syria. Recent historical
events are covered to give context to their stories, but this is no polemic. The
stories speak eloquently for themselves: the terror, the grief, the uncertainty,
the hardships visited on ordinary people caught up in an invasion and subse-
quent civil unrest. This is a powerful book and should reach the widest
audience. Age 10+ [IB]

MARCIA WILLIAMS
MY SECRET WAR DIARY
WALKER BOOKS 2009, £12.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781406309409

This is a little treasure of a book – the social history of World War II as experi-
enced by Flossie Albright from Dorchester, aged nine when the war began. The
diary entries are informative, funny and occasionally poignant, and the diary is
liberally illustrated with Flossie’s own drawings, photographs, correspondence,
maps, pressed flowers, posters and newspaper cuttings. It’s all there: evacuees,
land girls, ration books, family life played out against the backdrop of war. The
book is robust and well constructed so that the stuck-in bits stay put. Age 8+ [IB]

AJ WOOD AND CLINT TWIST

CHARLES DARWIN AND THE BEAGLE ADVENTURE
TEMPLAR PUBLISHING 2009, £14.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781840111538

This lavishly produced large-format hardback with its magnetic keyhole open-
ing on the cover, unlocks the 19th century world that Darwin inhabited. It is
an account of his voyage on HMS Beagle 1831–36, and is packed with
magnificent illustrations, envelopes and pull-outs to open and maps to unfold.
There are chapters on his preparation for the journey, South America, Cape
Horn and the wildlife, flora and fauna of the Galápagos. This is an informative
and beautiful book about Darwin’s life and discoveries. [PO’D]
READ ALSO: What Mr Darwin Saw by Mick Manning (Frances Lincoln, 2009)

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 59
Irish-Published Children’s Books
AN GÚM CLÓ MHAIGH EO
http://www.irish.ie/ForasnaGaeilge http://www.leabhar.com/
STEVE CANNON EITHNE NÍ GHALLCHOBHAIR, CAROL BETERA A MHAISIGH
MAIRÉAD AGUS AN FOGHLAÍ MARA TOMÁS NA HORDÓIGE
€5.50 (BOG), ISBN 9781857917222 €8.00 (BOG), ISBN 9781899922543
ERIC HILL CAITRÍONA NÍ MHURCHÚ
BRAN AGUS A DHAIDEO ROBERTO AGUS DRAOI NA gCAT
€4.95 (CRUA), ISBN 9781857917215
€8.00 (BOG), ISBN 9781899922550
ERIC HILL
PÁDRAIC BREATHNACH, OLIVIA GOLDEN A MHAISIGH
BRAN AGUS A MHAMÓ
AN CAITÍN A D’ITH AN PÍOTSA
€4.95 (CRUA), ISBN 9781857917208
€8.50 (BOG), ISBN 9781899922567
ERIC HILL
BRAN AGUS A MHÚINTEOIR
€4.95 (CRUA), ISBN 9781857917505
COIS LIFE
KAZUNO KOHARA http://coislife.ie/
MÁIRE NIC MHEANMAN A CHUIR I nGAELIGE SIOBHAIN GROGAN
TAIBHSÍ SA TEACH CÉN t-AM É?
€5.50 (BOG), ISBN 9781857917543
€9.00 (CRUA), ISBN 9781901176902
TADHG MAC DHONNAGÁIN, KIERON BLACK A MHAISIGH
ÁINE NÍ GHLINN
OISÍN
TROMLUÍ?
€7.00 (BOG), ISBN 9781857917420
€10.00 (BOG), ISBN 9781901176957
NICOLA MOFFAT, MARGARET ANNE SUGGS A MHAISIGH
LÁ BREÁ FUAR GABRIEL ROSENSTOCK, RÓISÍN CURÉ A MHAISIGH
€4.50 (BOG), ISBN 9781857917130 AN tOLLAMH FOLAMH
€10.00 (BOG), ISBN 9781901176940
LÁRA NIC OIREACHTAIGH
CÁ BHFUIL TÚ, A PHÁDRAIG? DERMOT SOMERS
€15.00 (CRUA), ISBN 9781857917482 AR MUIR IS AR SLIABH
€12.00 (PBK), ISBN 9781901176971
PAULA NÍ CHIONNAITH, STEVE SIMPSON A MHAISIGH
AN TEIST AOIFE VALLEY
€8.00 (BOG), ISBN 9781857917284 TEACH AN OIGHIR
€10.00 (CRUA), ISBN 9781901176926
MAOLÍOSA NÍ CHLÉIRIGH, RÓISÍN CURÉ A MHAISIGH
TURAS GO MAIGH EO
€9.50 (CRUA), ISBN 9781857917437 CLÓ IAR CHONNACHTA
LAOISE NÍ CHOMHRAÍ http://www.cic.ie/
AG TAISTEAL LE TARLACH SA PHOLAINN
€10.50 (CRUA), ISBN 9781857917413 MICHEÁL Ó RUAIRC
EIBHLÍS NÍ DHONNCHADHA, DÓMHNAL Ó BRIC A MHAISIGH NA LUCHA AG RINCE
NÓINÍN AGUS RÓLLAÍ PÓLLAÍ €8.00 (BOG), ISBN 9781905560424
€9.50 (CRUA), ISBN 9781857917475 JANE CLARKE, MÍCHEÁL Ó CONGHAILE (AISTRITHEOIR)
TRÍONA NÍ LIONÁIN, PETER DONNELLY A MHAISIGH CHARLES FUGE (LÉARÁIDÍ)
CARRAIG NA CAILLÍ MURCHA SA bPOLL BÁITE
€8.00 (BOG), ISBN 9781857917369 €7.50 (BOG), ISBN 9781905560431

FRAINC Ó MURCHADHA, RIAIN DARCY A MHAISIGH

PÁIRC AN LEASA MERCIER PRESS
€7.00 (BOG), ISBN 9781857916355
http://www.mercierpress.ie/
KORKY PAUL AGUS VALERIE THOMAS
LIAM MAC CÓIL A CHUIR I nGAELIGE SE CONNOLLY, ILLUSTRATED BY AXEL RATOR
CITÍ CAILLEACH – LEABHAR MÓR DAMSEL
€12.50 (BOG), ISBN 9781857917468 €8.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781856356183

ALAN TITLEY KIERAN MARK CROWLEY

GLUAISEACHT COLM & THE LAZARUS KEY
€7.50 (BOG), ISBN 9781857917550 €8.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781856356466

60 BOOKFEST 2009–2010
 Jan 2009-Dec 2009

GABRIEL FITZMAURICE CATHERINE BRUZZONE & SUSAN MARTINEAU

ILLUSTRATED BY STELLA MCDONALD TRANSLATED BY RACHEL NÍ CHUINN
G.F. WOZ ERE HIDE & SPEAK IRISH
€7.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781856356220 €9.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847171474
JUDI CURTIN
MÓINÍN ALICE TO THE RESCUE
€7.95 (PBK), ISBN 9781847171757
http://www.moinin.ie/
GERRY HUNT
ESTHER GÖBL UÍ NUALLÁIN BLOOD UPON THE ROSE, EASTER 1916
MAISITHE AG EMILY COLENSO €12.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847170897
EACHTRAÍ UCHTAIGH: SCÉALTA DO DHAOINE ÓGA
€8.00 (BOG), ISBN 9780955407994 CELINE KIERNAN
THE CROWDED SHADOWS
KAREN TAZI BOOK 2: THE MOOREHAWKE TRILOGY
NA CLOCHA SÍNEACHA €10.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847171115
€TBC (BOG), ISBN 9780955407970
NATASHA MAC A’BHÁIRD
ILLUSTRATED BY CARTOON SALOON
POOLBEG OLANNA’S BIG DAY: BRIDGES SERIES
http://www.poolbeg.com/ €7.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781847171719

CLAIRE HENNESSY EITHNE MASSEY, ILLUSTRATED BY LISA JACKSON

EVERY SUMMER BEST-LOVED IRISH LEGENDS
€14.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781847171375
€7.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781842233467
JOHN QUINN EITHNE MASSEY, ILLUSTRATED BY CARTOON SALOON
SPECKY BECKY BUCKS THE DREAMING TREE: BRIDGES SERIES
€7.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781847171580
€7.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781842234068
EITHNE MASSEY
THE COLLINS PRESS THE SECRET OF KELLS
€7.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847171214
http://www.collinspress.ie/
KUNAK MCGANN, ILLUSTRATED BY GREG MASSARDIER
VINCENT MCDONNELL THE TRAIN DRIVER: PANDA CUB NO. 9
THE STORY OF THE GAA €5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847170835
€6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781905172962 OISÍN MCGANN
MICHAEL SMITH THE BABY GIANT: PANDA LEGENDS NO. 4
TOM CREAN: FEAR SAN OIGHEAR €5.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847170880
EACHTRAÍ ÉIREANNAIGH SAN ANTARTACH LINDA MOLLER
€7.99 (BOG), ISBN 9781848890077 THE GREAT PIG ESCAPE
MICHAEL SMITH €6.99 (PBK, ISBN 9780862786670
TOM CREAN: ICE MAN TOMM MOORE, RETOLD BY MARY WEBB
THE ADVENTURES OF AN IRISH ANTARCTIC HERO ILLUSTRATED BY CARTOON SALOON
€7.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781905172313
THE SECRET OF KELLS
€12.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781847171221
THE O’BRIEN PRESS EANNA NÍ LAMHNA
PATRICE AGGS PHOTOGRAPHS BY ANTHONY WOODS
DUCKS IN TROUBLE: PANDA NO. 20 WILD DUBLIN, EXPLORING NATURE IN THE CITY
€5.95 (PBK), ISBN 9781847171542 €14.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847171429
JAMES ALLISON JOE O’BRIEN
DEMON FROM THE DEEP END FÉILE FEVER
€6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847171344 €7.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847171733
BRIANÓG BRADY DAWSON, MICHAEL CONNOR A MHAISIGH PETER PRENDERGAST
SCUAB FIACAL DANNY: SOS 16 ILLUSTRATED BY CARTOON SALOON
€5.95 (BOG), ISBN 9781847171283 THE ROMANIAN BUILDER: BRIDGES SERIES
MARIAN BRODERICK €7.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781847171054
ILLUSTRATED BY FRANCESCA CARABELLI ENDA WYLEY, ILLUSTRATED BY CARTOON SALOON
A WITCH IN A FIX I WON’T GO TO CHINA: BRIDGES SERIES
€6.99 (PBK), ISBN 9781847171306 €7.99 (HBK), ISBN 9781847171597

BOOKFEST 2009–2010 61
COMPETITIONS
COVER DESIGN COMPETITION
Following the success of last year’s Children’s Book Festival Cover
Competition, CBI has once again teamed up with The O’Brien Press
to give budding artists the chance to design the front cover of a
professionally published book!

A special edition of Sam McBratney’s classic title The Lough Neagh

Monster is due for release in 2010 and we need YOU to create a
brand new cover design that will appeal to the young readers of
today. So if you fancy seeing your handiwork on the shelves of your
local library or bookshop next spring, simply pick up an entry form
and get drawing!

Entry forms are available at participating libraries and schools and

can also be downloaded at www.childrensbooksireland.ie. The
closing date is 13 November 2009.

Left: Last year’s winner, Holly Crowley Walsh

INTERNATIONAL
EDUCATION
SERVICES
Ireland’s Leading School
and Library Supplier
 COMPETITIONS
NAME THE DINOSAUR COMPETITION
This year CBI invited a group of fearless young artists from Cork City to work with illustrator Alan
Barrett to create the new poster image for the 2009 Children’s Book Festival. Now we want YOU to
complete this process by giving a name to the book-loving dinosaur featured in the final design!

The Challenge
Firstly, you must come up with the most original, unusual or amusing name for the dinosaur character
featured in the 2009 festival poster (see picture below).

Then, you need to complete the following tiebreaker sentence in no more than 15 words, writing from
the dinosaur’s point of view:

I like nothing better than sitting in my hammock reading…

Example answer: I like nothing better than lying in my hammock reading my favourite book and
sipping on a nice cool glass of Dino Juice!

The Prize
This competition will be judged in two age
categories – under 10s and 10+.

The winner of each category will receive a

selection of top titles from this year’s BookFest
guide, plus many other fantastic book-related
prizes.

A donation of books to the value of €1,000

will also be made to the winning entrants’
nominated school or public library.

How to Enter
Simply visit www.childrensbooksireland.ie
and submit your answer via the online
entry form. The closing date is
1 November 2009.

BOOKFEST 2009–2010
63
Celebrate the Children's Book Festival with

NEW
An exciting new series of multicultural books for children

Olanna's Big Day The Dreaming Tree

Natasha Mac a'Bháird Eithne Massey
Illus. Ray Forkan Illus. Marie Thorhauge
Olanna is delighted Roberto finds it hard
when the school band to adjust to a new life
gets to play in the St. in Ireland - he doesn't
Patrick's Day parade - even have anyone to
she's been practising play football with! His
really hard on her tin granny reminds him
whistle. But then disaster of the story of the
strikes! Can Olanna dreaming tree but he
save the day? Maybe doesn't see how a
with a little help from story can help him.
her granny in Nigeria! But maybe it can ...
Age 6+, ­7.99/£6.99 hb, Age 6+, ­7.99/£6.99 hb,
ISBN 978-1-84717-171-9 ISBN 978-1-84717-158-0

I Won't Go to China The Romanian

Enda Wyley Builder
Illus. Marie Thorhauge Peter Prendergast
A trip to China to see Illus. Ross Stewart
Granny? Sounds like Joe has so many
fun! But Chang-ming questions for the new
will miss playing in the builder. But Radu can't
big match - he's not speak any English.
going! Maybe his Now Joe will never
teacher has an idea learn about buildlng!
that might help ... Or will he?
Age 6+, ­7.99/£6.99 hb, Age 6+, ­7.99/£6.99 hb,
ISBN 978-1-84717-159-7 ISBN 978-1-84717-105-4

Bridging Cultures,
Teachers! Check out Bridging Reading Abilities
www.obrien.ie for lots Bridges are a new series of books celebrating Ireland's
of great teaching ethnic and cultural diversity. Beautiful full-colour
resources to help you
hardback books with high quality stories and engaging
get the most from
Bridges! illustrations, Bridges can help children with their
understanding of different cultures and of the many
different experiences of living in Ireland today in a fun
Kindly Supported By
and enjoyable way. With story levels that are accessible
to a wide range of reading and
language abilities.

The O'Brien Press, 12 Terenure Road East, Dublin 6.

P: 01 4923333; F: 01 4922777; E: books@obrien.ie; www.obrien.ie