Kids' Picks
Picture books
Grandfather's Coat. Jim Aylesworth
This is a delightful retelling of an old story about a beautifully tailored coat that, as time goes by, is cut down and repurposed several times until it becomes so small that it becomes a mouse family’s blanket. The book is full of detailed colourful drawings that provide opportunities for discussion and repetition of some of the words also makes it an engaging story for young listeners.
Anna Hibiscus’ Song. Atinuke, Lauren Tobia
Anna Hibiscus is overwhelmed with happiness. As she wanders around her African village speaking to various members of her family she asks “I am so happy! What can I do?” then makes up a happiness song with the ideas she is given. This book is illustrated with beautiful pictures that reflect the joy and colour in Anna’s life.
Fiction 7-9
Kidnapped. Jason Butchett
Sam has an amazing ability: he can take himself back to the 17th century where he hangs out on a pirate ship. There he spends his days helping to fend off enemies, outsmarting sharks and sharing in many other adventurous piratical activities. Young readers will be entertained by his antics at sea and will enjoy the illustrations scattered throughout this book.
The Mystery of the Secret Room. Helen Moss
Intrigue and mystery abound in this story. A group of friends are suffering from mid-winter holiday boredom when they accidentally discover a secret room. What follows provides enough adventure to fill their days as the children solve mysteries and at the same time learn about their smuggler ancestors. This is a great and exciting read.
Fiction 10+
The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora. Pablo Cataya
When Arturo’s friend arrives with her family to stay for the summer he is shocked at how much she has grown up. That he finds her attractive concerns him. As the summer progresses another problem arises as property developers move into the neighbourhood. Set in Miami and with a strong Cuban influence this story has a vibrancy that makes you feel you are there.
Tui Street Tales. Anne Kayes
The children from Tui Street experience a series of great adventures that have one thing in common: they are all related to fairy-tale characters. The story begins when Jack finds evidence of a giant living in the huge tree on his front lawn. The excitement continues as each of the street’s children find themselves at the centre of a mystery. This is a great story written by a New Zealand author.