Into the Forest by Anthony Browne

Review by Zidaan (3SM)

This book is about a young boy who takes a walk through a strange, mysterious forest. On the way, he is looking for an important member of his family – his dad! This book is interesting because on his journey he meets a number of fairy tale characters such as Little Red Riding Hood, Hansel and Gretel and Goldilocks and the three bears. 

This book teaches us to think more deeply about the message from these fairy tales and how to enjoy and appreciate nature. My favourite part is the twist at the end (no spoilers included). I did not like the part when the boy disobeyed his mum and went into the dangerous part of the forest as it made me feel scared.

I would recommend this book for Years 2,3 and 4, especially those that enjoy mystery and adventure.

 

My Family and Other Ghosts by Lou Kuenzler

Review by Joshan (4ED)

One night their dead grandfather visited to tell them some very exciting news. They were going to visit a haunted hotel where their dead grandfather used to live. Dad loves his experimental cooking especially his sprout biscuits this was opportunity to show off his cooking until,.The Smiths came to visit the hotel and then it was not a great time for Ash and Ivy… 

I LOVED this book! There was lots of ups and downs, yet this was so entertaining I woke up so early to read it in bed. 

I recommend this book to people who like suspense mixed with a lot of fun!!

Book cover of 'Into the Forest' by Anthony Browne
Book cover of 'My Family and Other Ghosts' by Lou Kuenzler

Arsenic for Tea by Robin Stevens

Review by Maala (5NB)

It is Daisy Wells and Hazel Wong’s Easter holidays and the two girls are staying at Daisy’s house, Fallingford. Daisy’s wealthy parents host a tea party for Daisy’s birthday. While everyone is having fun, someone is murdered! Wild storms outside prevent anyone setting foot in or out the house, leaving it up to the best friends to figure out who the murderer is before they strike again! 

I liked how there were so many other secrets to uncover as well as finding out who the murderer was. 

I would recommend this to people who like excitement and suspense.

 

Who Let the Gods Out by Maz Evans

Review by Rosemarie (6EC)

Elliot Hooper has a normal life. Or at least he did… until a strange girl crashes from the sky into his cowshed. This rude, over-confident girl seems to think she is immortal and, though he is not convinced, he decides to help- accidentally releasing an evil Deamon in the process Virgo is Member of the Zodiac council and guardian of the stationary cupboard – a true honour. She is determined to take the Ambrosia to prisoner 42 despite being ‘only’ 1,964. But, with the help of a strange mortal, she releases The Deamon King- not good at ALL. So, the Zodiac council instantly plant the blame on her and give her strict instructions to stop the evil king. The two of them become quite unusual friends as they work together to stop the evil demon king from destroying the world… with the help of the chill messenger god Hermes, the chubby king of gods Zeus, The squabbling sisters Aphrodite and Athene and so many more! And, maybe, just maybe, Elliot might be able to save his mother and himself from Mrs horses-bum and her plot to take their farm…

I love this book- it is actually a really good read and if you like (slightly bent) historical fiction and adventure then I would definitely recommend it!

This is probably a year 4+ book because any child younger might not understand all of the gods stuff- though it is a very good book for year 6’s who are doing Ancient Greeks.

Front cover of 'Arsenic for Tea' by Robin Stevens on a golden background.
Book cover of 'Who Let the Gods Out' by Maz Evans