Recently there has been a lot of discussion around books that are perfect for whole school assemblies. I have been working with a few schools in developing their assemblies based around special events in the year, keeping in mind that children should see themselves in books as well as being able to see others in new ways. The books in this blog post will be shared with a school who will share these in assemblies, classrooms and the library!
Gerald Needs a Friend, written and Illustrated by Robin Boyden, Published by Quarto Books
Gerald runs his life like clockwork and feels content with how his day and evening are planned! That is until he heads to town and meets Marcy and Marcel who run a new stall on the market. They seem to have all the answers to problems and treasures as well. Gerald stays all day and though shy at first, he grows in confidence and has fun until the clock strikes 5 and Gerald finds himself rushing home to stick to his schedule. Stunning and detailed illustrations will make you take ages to turn the page as there is so much colour and joy in each double page spread. A perfect story for those who need a little push out of their comfort zones to find that fun can be had outside of structure. Gerald learns that his life, though wonderful, is better when shared with friends.
Esme’s Rock, Written by Simon Philip, Illustrated by Magda Brol, Published by Oxford University Press
A very Flintstones vibe can be found within the pages of this delightful story. Esme, a young, curious and very loud cave girl draws attention to herself and spills secrets with no ill intention at all, she is just very loud! While preparing for her best friend Morris’s surprise birthday party, Esme begins to stress with all the work that still needs to be done. Shouting her frustrations, these reverberate to neighbouring villages and people come to pitch in. Morris is delighted with his surprise and the party is a huge success. The villagers can now rely on Esme to bring them together with her uniquely loud voice! Enchanting and fun illustrations transport the reader back in time to the land of mammoths and cave dwelling. A brilliant story of coming together for the greater good and learning to use your talents for the best purpose.
Upside Down Friday, Written by Lana Spasevski, Illustrated by Nicky Johnston, Published by EK Books
Fridays are upside down and uncomfortable for Hugo, and he feels flutters in his tummy as he faces another strange day. Fridays turn Hugo’s whole world upside down and it really affects him emotionally and mentally. Finding his way to school, he meets Maddie, a giraffe, who plans to be Hugo’s buddy. Her kindness and gift of a red balloon help to send some of the tummy flutters away and he smiles, more ready to face the upside down Friday. Anxiety is described so delicately in this book, as though falling from a height, and young readers will certainly be able to empathise with those feelings, especially around changes to routine and structure. Simply, yet beautifully illustrated, with plenty of the colour red, readers will rejoice with Hugo as he faces his fears with his new friend.
Tisha and the Blossom, Written by Wendy Meddour, Illustrated by Daniel Egnéus, Published by Oxford University Press
This may be one of the most inspirational books I have read. While reading about Tisha’s day of hurrying, I felt a keen sense of needing to slow down and to stop trying to race towards the next part of the day. Tisha is a quiet child, introspective and listening, taking in the world around her. Unfortunately, everyone needs her to hurry today and she feels it deeply. Luckily, her mum listens and understands her need for time and space so they take a walk, count what they see and enjoy a family picnic when Tisha can finally catch the blossom falling from the trees. Wendy Meddour and Daniel Egnéus are a dream team for picture books, her words being illustrated in the most stunning colours and images. I love Lubna and Pebble, Tibble and Grandpa but I feel a great respect for the peace of Tisha. A wonderful celebration of mindfulness.
Winnie and Wilbur Around the World, Written by Valerie Thomas, Illustrated by Korky Paul, Published by Oxford University Press
Winnie and Wilbur have been on so many adventures together and they have truly captured children’s imaginations around the world. This is exactly where this story is set- around the world. Borrowing a book about animals from the library inspired Winnie to travel to see these creatures in real life, from the Savannah to the desert, ocean to forest and back again, it is a thrilling adventure for the pair- perhaps a bit too thrilling towards the end! Showcasing exactly the power of words, books and libraries, this adventure is funny and full of Korky Paul’s enticing and well known illustrations. Wilbur is tasked with choosing his favourite animal at the end- can you guess what he might choose? The ultimate character pair, Winnie and Wilbur are two of the best picture book characters in the world!
Howard the Average Gecko, Written by Wendy Meddour, Illustrated by Carmen Saldaña, Published by Oxford University Press
Howard is rather good at trumpeting his own horn…he thinks rather highly of himself. As he brags about being king of the jungle due to his extraordinary talents of camouflage, he misses out on all that surrounds him. It takes a brave stick insect to boldly drop Howard down to earth again and when he learns that he is just average, he is heartbroken. Believing so strongly that he was unique, it is hard to hear he is not the only one with this skill. However, he meets new friends who like him just the way he is! This charming tale will help readers to feel proud of who they are and to learn to accept themselves and their friends, respecting them for who they are. The lovely, colourful illustrations bring a sense of fun to the story. Another fantastic book for young readers with an affirming message by Wendy Meddour.
I am a primary school teacher, turned librarian. Now I have the title Reading Advocate for ASSET Education Trust, based in Suffolk.
I read constantly and have more books than bookshelves, but I wouldn't have it any other way.
I celebrate reading every day at work and at home with my two children, aged 11 and 9.
I sit on the National Executive Committee for the Federation of Children’s Book Groups and run an OU/UKLA Teachers as Readers group!
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