It's World Book Day!
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read
If you are a parent of a primary aged child or work in a primary school this is unlikely to be news.
There will have been varying levels of enthusiasm and angst in homes around the country about the costume wearing element of the whole thing. Depending on the book character getting through the school day may involved challenges such as sitting down, standing up, getting through doors etc not to mention actual school work.
As a kidlit author I am, probably obviously, all in favour of anything that encourages children to read. World Book Day and the National Year of Reading in the UK are great initiatives that hopefully make a difference. Reading is fun and the benefits go way beyond falling into a fantasy world that won’t let go, amazing as that is in itself.
As you may also be aware I am championing Indie Books in my newsletters this year. I thought I would share with you some of my favourite Indie Kids books.
Before I launch into my list I will remind you that kids books are not just for kids.
The Guardians of the Forest Series - Cheryl Burman.
I have to start with the (at the time trilogy) that I gave a ‘Lily’ to as my MG/YA series of the year. Since then Cheryl Burman has published a prequel and a sequel taking the series total to five. I love these twisting turning fantasy books. Will Melda be defeated? What will happen to the Danae? Animals, magic, good vs evil … The Guardians of the Forest Series has fans of all ages, including me. This is a continuous story so you need to read all the books and, at least the main three, (The Wild Army, Quests and Gryphon Magic) in the right order.
The Brass Ring Series - K. L. Small.
Another ‘Lily’ winning children’s series. This one is a trilogy with young Rusty going off on adventures via a carousel. If you’re wondering about the brass ring it plays a significant role. There’s a lot going on in these books and much to learn. They can be read as standalone but if you miss The Magic Carousel you miss, what I consider, an important part of the story.
Magic Mack and The MIschief Makers - J.C. Paulson.
I had to include this little treat of a book by an author better known for dealing with issues for bigger people.
Adorable Mack is magic. Paulson does have a way with words. This is her first foray into the land of the little people. I love the illustrations. Perhaps Mack might use his magic again some day. This not so little person enjoyed him discovering his magic.
Rainbow Dragon - Tanya Packer.
I LOVE this book so much. I found it hard to find better words than the ones below. I so wanted to hug Rainbow Dragon.
This is the cutest book. Love this story. The illustrations are beautiful and I love the message. Wonderful.
The Bee Book - Julie L. Kusma and Derek R. King.
These authors are prolific. I have no idea how many books they’ve published. I wonder if they know. This is one of my favourites.
This is a delightful book. Fabulous illustrations. Brilliant messages. Just love it.
As I have mentioned I am a kidlit author so here are my books with some kind words from reading humans.
If I Were Invisible …
'This is a really fun book that would enhance any child’s personal library. I think every early years classroom should have a copy too.'
‘How fantastic to be invisible! To do all the things you ever wanted to do and no one would know it was you! All the chocolate you can eat, be a little naughty at the playground, go anywhere all by yourself – ahh! All by yourself. Are there downsides to being invisible?’
The Palm Tree Swingers Island Band
'Don’t get the glums! Read this.'
‘…This is an extremely colourful, fun and eye catching children’s book. It tells us all about The palm tree swingers island band which consists of a tiger 🐅, orangutan 🦧, elephant 🐘, eagle 🦅, rhino 🦏, Komodo dragon 🐉, spider 🕷️ and a turtle 🐢 who each play a different instrument….We all had fun reading it to each other and pretending that we were the animals playing the different instruments. We made it into a great action story which is perfect fun for a rainy day or as a classroom activity. It wasn't just a fun book but it is also a great way to teach young children to read and learn about all the different animals, instruments as well as colours. The illustrations were absolutely fantastic!! …’
Santa’s Early Christmas
'Lily Lawson has delivered a special gift in this book, just like Santa does himself...''It's very worth purchasing as it's something that you could read year upon year.'
Christmas Capers
'With two stories in one, this mini-series is fun to read out loud to the little ones, and the gorgeous illustrations help too.'
Happy Reading however old you are.
Lily x
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