Education
Seven of the best new chapter books for children By Sarah Campbell From animal lovers to budding detectives, fantasy fans to comedians, there’s a book out there for everyone! Here are some of our recent favourites, perfect for your next reading adventure.
Around the world The Last Mapmaker Christina Soontornvat. Set sail on the high seas with 12-year-old Sai in this extraordinary adventure set in a Thai-inspired fantasy world. As assistant to Mangkon’s most celebrated mapmaker, Sai seizes the chance to join an expedition to a land of dragons, dangers and riches beyond imagining. But Sai carries a secret that could ruin her dreams - and she isn’t the only one. Ages 8+.
Animal lovers
Kids who love fantasy
Michael the Amazing MindReading Sausage Dog Terrie Chilvers.
Spellstone Ross Montgomery.
A fun, illustrated early chapter book perfect for young doglovers! Michael’s dream is to become a global superstar but becoming famous is no walk in the park. How long will it take the other residents of Snufflesby-Sea to recognise Michael’s amazing talents; and those of his trusty sidekick, Stanley Big Dog? Ages 5+.
One of our all-time favourite children’s authors delivers a brilliant new fantasy adventure. Evie is used to going unnoticed. But then she meets the mysterious Wainwright and is recruited to a secret magical organisation. Suddenly Evie finds herself at the heart of an ancient battle to protect the most powerful magical weapon in the world. Ages 8+.
Reluctant readers
Funny books
The Day the Hiccups Took Over Jo Simmons, illustrated by Lee Cosgrove.
My Name is Sunshine Simpson G. M. Linton.
Hilarious and super accessible, this is a book packed with madcap reading magic. Frank has a big day ahead of him, with a trip to the dentist, a trumpet exam, a swimming contest and tickets to see his hero live on stage. But he wakes up with hiccups and they just won’t STOP! Can Frank turn calamity into a dramatic triumph? Ages 5+.
This book will make you both laugh and cry! Sunshine Simpson is a brand new best friend for independent readers. Grandad is always telling her to get out and find her own adventures but bad luck has a habit of coming her way. Sunshine needs to find her voice and show the world she can shine. Ages 8+.
Kids who love adventure The Thames and Tide Club Katya Balen, illustrated by Rachael Dean. Clem and her friends are members of a mudlarking club, searching for treasures on the banks of the River Thames. Before they know it they’re on the weirdest, wildest adventure they could imagine on a mission to save underwater London! The first in a new series. Ages 5+.
Budding detectives The Case of the Lighthouse Intruder Kereen Getten. Perfect for fans of Robin Stevens’ Murder Most Unladylike series, this is a gripping mystery. Fayson’s cousins recruit her to their top-secret gang but seem more interested in food, squabbling and falling asleep! So Fayson takes charge and tries to track down clues about the strange shadow that has been appearing in the island’s lighthouse. Can she solve the case? Ages 8+.
Sarah Campbell is co-founder of Parrot Street Book Club (<parrotstreet.com), an online children’s bookshop offering a handpicked collection of high-quality children’s chapter books, plus an award-winning monthly book subscription for kids ages 5 to 14. 20 Families Chiltern
Familiesonline.co.uk
