Bookshelf Best: The Clockwork Conspiracy by Sam Sedgman – A Must-Read Mystery for Upper Primary Pupils
- teachingfromtext
- Jul 18
- 2 min read
If you’re searching for your next Bookshelf Best to inspire and engage upper primary readers, look no further than The Clockwork Conspiracy by Sam Sedgman. This gripping, fast-paced mystery was recommended to me by a Year 6 pupil—and I’m so glad it was!
Set in the heart of London, this Bookshelf Best follows Isaac, a young aspiring inventor whose father is the horologist responsible for keeping Big Ben ticking. But when his father vanishes mysteriously on the night the clocks go back, Isaac is left with only a handful of cryptic clues and a mission to uncover the truth.
He teams up with Harriet, a clever and resourceful relative, and the pair plunge into a thrilling adventure through London. Along the way, they decode clues, confront shadowy figures, and uncover the secretive Machinists—a group with a dangerous plan that threatens more than just the ticking of the nation’s most famous clock.
Sam Sedgman expertly weaves themes of time, invention, family, and courage into a beautifully plotted narrative. Packed with puzzles, gadgets, and big reveals, this Bookshelf Best is perfect for readers who love mysteries where kids take the lead.
Why This Title Is a True Bookshelf Best
Ideal for Primary English planning linked to high-quality texts
Aligned with KS2 English reading objectives
A great springboard for discussion in guided reading or whole-class English lessons
Supports text-based English planning with rich vocabulary and a plot that encourages prediction and inference
Perfect for Year 5 and Year 6 pupils who enjoy adventure, suspense, and clever protagonists
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