Well here we are! The last few weeks of a very strange and different academic year. I, for one, am looking forward to September already when hopefully some form of normality will return and we
can have lots going on in the library as in previous years: more story telling, more class visits, book clubs and themed days……..
One of the more positive aspects of lockdown was the chance to read more – Waterstones and Amazon did a roaring trade, I am sure! I hope that you found the book suggestions useful in our daily
tweets and monthly updates and it was great to see pupils coming to the library to enjoy new titles that had been added or to suggest books that we should stock. Hopefully we can encourage the pupils to leave reviews of books that they have read – something else to look forward to in September!
Non Fiction Book of the Month
Marcus Rashford: You are a Champion
From Marcus Rashford – an international footballer and leading voice and activist in the UK – comes this inspiring, positive and practical guide giving you the tools you need to reach your full potential. Marcus Rashford has joined forces with Carl Anka to show you that possibilities for you really can be endless by giving young people advice on having the right mindset and positive thoughts to change their lives. This book can teach you to build mental resilience and allow you to achieve your dreams. A brilliant book for older readers “Marcus has spoken for and inspired millions of children….that is so powerful”
Fiction Book of the Month
The Boy Who Sailed the Ocean in an Armchair by Lara Williamson
A previous Waterstone’s Book of the Month, this story tells the tale of Becket, Billy and their dad who run away in the middle of the night to live by the sea, leaving their almost – mum, Pearl, behind. Becket is very confused – why has his dad done this? It’s all a mystery. So with the help of a snail called Brian ( of course!) they set of on a journey of discovery to reunite them all with Pearl but it is not plain sailing….but when is it ever ? “A touching, funny tale”………… “An incredible, emotional read”……… “An epic voyage of discovery”
SUMMER READING CHALLENGE 2021
Here is something you may like to access during the school holidays. Run annually by the Reading Agency in conjunction with public libraries this reading challenge runs from 10th July until 11th
September. The theme this year is Wild World Heroes which will consider conservation and the environment and because of this they have also teamed up with WWF. It offers children the chance to access lots of amazing books, try out lots of different activities to keep them busy and be recognised for their efforts with special awards. There is lots more information on their website summerreadingchallenge.org.uk where you can join and become a member – check it out.
STOCKPORT LIBRARIES
Now that lockdown has been eased a little, public libraries have re-opened and many have extended their hours. It is definitely worth having a look online at all they offer these days. Book Start offers free packs of books for babies and toddlers and older children who are blind and deaf. Ziptales has 500+ interactive stories – voiceovers and animation – quizzes, games and lots more that should keep children occupied in the school holidays. There is also homework help available directing children to the right place to help them with their school work.
STOCKPORT CHILDREN’S BOOK AWARDS
This event was started in 1996 and still continues today. Aimed mostly at primary aged children there is an award for best fiction book for 9 – 11 year olds that some children at St James may enjoy.
The shortlist for 2021 is :
Voyage of the Sparrow Hawk by Natasha Farrant
The House of 100 Clocks by A.M.Howell
The Vanishing Trick by Jenny Spangler
There is also an art competition where children are invited to create a piece of art in any medium
inspired by any of the shortlisted titles.
The whole event will be celebrated at an award ceremony in July, location of which is yet to be
decided.
To find out more go to Stockport Libraries on your search engine
Waterstone’s Children’s Book Winners 2021 (younger readers)
When 11 year old Addie decides to memorialise the victims of historic witch trials that took place in her Scottish hometown, she hopes that will also change how her neighbours see her.
“a very powerful book”…… “a stunning, moving book”……..”life changing”…….”beautiful and important”
Wranglestone by Darren Chatton (older readers)
This merges a love story with a terrifying post-apocalyptic zombie thriller.
“properly scary and properly heart warming…”
Alice through the Looking Glass
This year will celebrate the 150 the anniversary of Lewis Carroll’s famous sequel to Alice in Wonderland and a number of events are taking place.
Head to storymuseum.org.uk/about-us/alices-day-1.
The Royal Mint has also released two special £5 coins – one depicting Alice and the Cheshire Cat and another with Tweedledee and Tweedledum
And Finally …….
We are all looking forward to our Harry Potter Day on Monday 19th July when Year 7s can enjoy all things magical. If you wish to read any of the Harry Potter books or discover more about the exciting themes and interesting characters, head to HarryPotterMagic.com to find out more
Have a fabulous summer and stay safe
Mrs Peters
Librarian
