I couldn’t put our Bookshelf Best, Small Wonder  by Ross Montgomery, down! What a gripping, heartfelt adventure. From the very first page, this story draws you into a world of bravery, loyalty, and the powerful bond between family. A Journey Filled with Courage Tick — known as Small Wonder by his grandfather — lives quietly at the edge of Ellia with his little brother and their wonderfully talented horse. But everything changes when a deadly assassin arrives and the kingdom i

We’re excited to share something special with you… Our fully resourced English planning based on Journey to the River Sea  has just been relaunched — and it’s better than ever. Back by popular demand, this much-loved unit has had a complete refresh, with: ✨ Brand-new lessons and activities ✨ Updated images and resources ✨ Fresh ideas throughout ✨ Clear, ready-to-teach planning that saves you time Journey to the River Sea fully resourced English planning The full unit include

If you’re looking for a funny, fast-paced story to hook young readers, Trouble on the Farm  is a brilliant addition to your Bookshelf Best shelf . Packed with humour, chaos, and lovable characters, this book is guaranteed to raise a few giggles. A Farm Visit Gone Wrong (in the Best Way!) Bella is thrilled to be visiting the farm. There are cows to meet, raspberries to pick, a big red tractor to explore, and plenty of time to play with Fetch the dog. But when Magda unexpectedl

Our Bookshelf Best: Letters from the Upside Down  by Katya Balen is a beautifully written, quietly powerful story about loss, hope, dealing with anger and unexpected connections. It’s one of those books that lingers long after the final page — gentle, thoughtful, and full of heart. A Story of Anger, Loss, Nature, and Healing Told through the surprising bond between a young boy and a group of pigeons, this story explores grief in a way that feels honest and deeply moving. Katy

Without a doubt, the Skandar series  is the first set of books I recommend to Upper Key Stage 2 readers — and Skandar and the Spirit War  is a powerful, action-packed finale that does not disappoint. From the very first page, this fifth and final book races towards an unforgettable conclusion. Bookshelf Best: Skandar and the Spirit War A Final Battle for the Island The Island is at war. Skandar is now an outlaw, forced into hiding after Rex Manning reveals a game-changing sec

Take your class on an unforgettable polar adventure with our brand-new English unit inspired by Race to the Frozen North  by Catherine Johnson! Fully Resourced English Planning based on 'Race To The Frozen North' by Catherine Johnson Matthew Henson’s extraordinary journey—from a harsh childhood to life at sea, to standing at the very top of the world in 1909—offers pupils a powerful story of courage, resilience, and determination. Although his achievements went unrecognised f

The Last Pebble  is a beautifully moving story about a young boy who feels lost and his stone-loving grandfather, whose quiet secret changes everything. With gentle humour and heartfelt moments, Alex Horne explores friendship, family, and belonging in a way that’s both tender and thought-provoking. Bookshelf Best: The Last Pebble by Alex Horne Perfect for Upper Key Stage 2 and easily this week's Bookshelf Best, this story opens rich opportunities for discussion and creative w

Some books find you at just the right moment — and I Am Rebel  was one of those for me! A lovely colleague recommended it over the photocopier, and I’m so glad she did. What a captivating read! Bookshelf Best: I am Rebel A Story of Loyalty and Courage Rebel is a small, scruffy farm dog who absolutely adores his owner, twelve-year-old Tom. Life on the farm is simple and perfect — until it isn’t. When Tom becomes frustrated with the world around him and decides to take a stand,

As a huge fan of Phil Earle’s writing, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on Until the Road Ends and it certainly didn’t disappoint! No...

Looking for your child’s next Bookshelf Best ? If they love adventures with a dash of magic and mystery, A Most Peculiar Toy Factory  by...

If you’re searching for your next Bookshelf Best  to recommend to young readers, look no further than The Vanishing of Aveline Jones  by...

If you’re looking for your child’s next great read, The Clockwork Key  is a dazzling start to the Relic Hunters series and this week's...

Shrapnel Boys by Jenny Pearson is a standout Bookshelf Best for any young reader fascinated by World War II stories. Perfect for KS2...

If you’re searching for your next Bookshelf Best  to inspire and engage upper primary readers, look no further than The Clockwork...

We are so  excited to unveil our six-week, fully resourced English planning based on the gripping adventure story ‘Darwin’s Dragons’ by...

If you're searching for a high-quality text for English planning  that sparks discussion, empathy and emotional depth, The Last House on...

Not all heroes wear capes — some have fur, oversized paws, and a howl that echoes loss and longing. Gill Lewis’s A Street Dog Named Pup...

If you're searching for a beautifully told children's story that combines adventure, empathy, and a strong moral compass, look no further...

If you’re searching for an inclusive, empowering read that speaks directly to the challenges of growing up and finding your place in the...

Welcome to this week’s Bookshelf Best , where we spotlight must-reads for young readers and their families. This time, we’re diving into...