Ginnette Cameron-Gardner/ Primary Teacher Librarian

Happy holidays everyone, hopefully you have borrowed lots of exciting books to read. Remember we are always happy to add to our collection. So, if you know of a book that  you think would be good for the Primary Library, let us know the author and title. We love recommendations as it helps us keep the collection vibrant and current.

Brightstorm: a sky-ship adventure by Vashti Hardy located at JF HAR.

Recently received is this adventure story that draws you in and becomes the book you cannot put down as you need to know what comes next.

Summary: Twelve-year-old twins, Arthur and Maudie Brightstorm, receive word in Lontown that their famous explorer father died in a failed attempt to reach South Polaris. Not only that, but he has been accused of trying to steal fuel from his competitors before he died! The twins don’t believe the news, and they answer an advert to help crew a new exploration attempt in the hope of learning the truth and salvaging their family’s reputation. As the winged ship Aurora sets sail, the twins must keep their wits about them and prove themselves worthy of the rest of the crew. But will Arthur and Maudie find the answers they seek?

Marsh and me by Martine Murray CBCA Honour Book of the Year for younger readers, 2018. Located at JF MUR.

This is a heart-warming novel about trust and acceptance. The story explores how Joey and Marsh, who are gently revealed to be convincing characters, handle their self-doubts, yearnings to be seen as having value and an identity, difficulties in making friends and how they develop self-worth. A reassuring, encouraging read.

Summary: Joey is a sensitive and timid boy who comes out of his shell when he meets Marsh, a young girl from Serbia who has built a tree house on his hill. But we soon find out Marsh has a complex story of her own. An exploration of the migrant experience that includes aspects of Serbian culture, music, folklore and language this is a story about feeling that we’re not good enough, discovering our talents, finding friends and appreciating differences. (Source: Books in Print)

If you enjoyed reading How to train your dragon by Cressida Cowell, then discover the magic of Cressida Cowell and read her Wizards of Once series.

Book 1 of the series is Wizards of Once, and book 2 is Twice Magic)
Summary: This is the story of two characters from opposing tribes in an enchanting forest. Xar, a young boy Wizard with no magic and a fervent desire to get some and Wish, a young girl Warrior who should not have magic but somehow does. They have been taught since birth that they should hate each other like poison. This is the thrilling tale of what happens when their two worlds collide.

For younger readers Cressida Cowell has produced picture books such as Emily Brown and the Elephant Emergency located at J COW, and That rabbit belongs to Emily Brown.

In this latter story Emily Brown’s old grey toy rabbit Stanley is so charming that the Queen steals it. Emily is determined to get Stanley back and teach that naughty queen a lesson. He may be a bit worn and not the newest, but he is well loved and that is what counts. This is a valuable lesson for children that the newest and brightest are not necessarily the best or best-loved. Do you have a well-loved favourite toy that may not be in the best condition but is still your favourite?  Will justice prevail?

Fabulous collage illustrations by Neal Layton will delight the young reader.

There are so many books to choose from that pull the reader into worlds of wonder. I hope that you have wonderful adventures in the worlds that are the settings of these and other books.  Happy holidays.