Saturday, 31 March 2012

The Bumper Book of London by Becky Jones and Claire Lewis

Now that we've had some sunny days, lots of us have found ourselves itching to emerge from our winter hibernation and get outside for some fun in the fresh air!

The Bumper Book of London is the perfect companion for your adventures. Packed full of exciting ideas for days out, handy maps and fascinating facts, this book has enough in it to keep you busy all spring, and all summer.  And don't worry, with lots of indoor attractions too, there will still be plenty to do on those inevitable rainy days.

Becky Jones and Claire Lewis are also the authors of London Adventure Walks and know the area like the back of their hand, so this book is definitely worth having if you're short of ideas and want to get out and about this Easter.

Age 5-15, PB, Frances Lincoln, £9.99

Thursday, 29 March 2012

Books You've Always Meant to Read - Pride and Prejudice


In the spirit of the new adults fiction section in store, I have chosen to review one of my favourite novels; Pride and Prejudice. An unforgettable read, I fell in love with this novel whilst studying it at school
Arguably Jane Austen’s most famous and popular novel, Pride and Prejudice is a must read for all lovers of classic prose. This definitive piece of literature, first published in 1813 is still popular and relevant for today’s contemporary readers, with its beautifully written plot resonating with the reader long after they have put it down.
Following the tumultuous love lives of the five Bennett daughters, headed by the well-loved heroine Elizabeth and driven by the empty headed Mrs Bennett, this creatively woven novel  includes themes of social class and wealth as they are each faced with their own often humorous dilemmas. Though the young women are not affluent in wealth, they certainly are in wit and intelligence, as the reader will easily be able to relate to them. Not forgetting the proud and prominent character of Mr Darcy, this novel includes every vital ingredient needed to create the perfect page turner.
A vivid and heart-rending read, it is brimming with entertaining and often poignant moments that will keep the reader engaged throughout. Not to be deterred with its label as a classic or ‘chick-lit’, I can truly recommend this to any book worms or readers in need of a simply beautiful read; they can’t get much better than this.

Saturday, 10 March 2012

Small and Tall Tales of Extinct Animals

Small and Tall Tales of Extinct Animals, by Helene Rajcak

Gaint Beavers? Dwarf Hippos? Sea Cows? Unheard of, right? Wrong! All these animals existed many years ago before their species died out. Find out more about these creatures and many others in this fascinating book documenting their stories, complete with drawings bringing them back to life. Buy it now whilst there's £1 off!

Age Range: 6-12, Hardback, £14.99

Seasons

Seasons, by Blexbolex

This beautiful book is filled with gorgeous illustrations bursting with bright colours and bold shapes highlighting all the things we love about the seasons. From winter chestnuts to spring swallows this book covers all the beauties we witness and experience during the changes of the seasons.

Age Range: Children/ Juvenile, Hardback, £12.99

Dog Loves Drawing

Dog Loves Drawing, by Louise Yates

Louise Yates' latest book is the winner of the Roald Dahl's Funny Prize and its clear to see why with its colourful and exciting images that come to life on the page. A great way to encourage children to explore their imaginations run wild...just like dogs!

Age Range: 0-5, Paperback, £5.99

Don't Put Your Pants On Your Head, Fred!

Don't Put Your Pants On Your Head, Fred!, by Caryl Hart

Fred is always in a muddle getting dressed, he just can't get it right! Will the Queen be able to help him or will he wind up causing hassle in the castle? This funny book is laugh out loud and easy to read with its lively animation and rhythmic sentences. Perfect for any mischevious child who just can't figure out where his pants go!

Age Range: 0-5, Paperback, £5.99

Croc and Bird

Croc and Bird, by Alexis Deacon 

Two eggs hatch together. One's a bird. One's a crocodile. Surely they're not brothers?

This stunning book follows the story of these two characters and how they teach each other their individual skills. A touching tale of how family ties aren't always so obvious to everyone but can be found right under your nose!

Age Range: 0-5, Hardback, £10.99