In this episode, Kita Mitchell, joins us to talk about her latest novel, Don’t Tell Mum I made a Mammoth.
I chatted to Kita about writing books, working for Fireman Sam, and how her daughters give her book ideas.
Kitawas a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
***COMPETITION***
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Don’t Tell Mum I made a Mammoth head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Mammothcomp and tell us what animal you’d like to bring back from extinction.
Hey, hey, hey! Welcome back to the Big Kids Book Club.
It’s Tuesday, so what should we talk about today? How about new books!
Today we look at a book that’s either just been released or soon to be hitting shelves, but either way they should be on your wish lists!
Today’s book: Ember Shadows and the Fates of Mount Never by Rebecca King
Publisher: Hachette
Pages: 256
Release Date: 18/08/2022
In a land trapped by fate, only courage can re-write the future.
In the magical village of Everspring, everyone receives a fate card before their twelfth birthday, sent down from the mysterious Mount Never. It tells them their purpose, their profession and how old they’ll be when they die.
Nearly 12-year-old Ember Shadows has always believed she is destined for great things. But when her fate card arrives, it’s blank. What does that mean? Then, worse still, her sister’s card decrees she will die before her next birthday. No way is Ember’s going to let that happen.
Determined to challenge what – or who – is responsible for these cards, Ember sets off up the mountain, a place no one is allowed to go. She encounters forbidden realms full of magic, trickery and curious creatures. In a thrilling race through a magical landscape, Ember Shadows must uncover the secret behind the fate cards in order to save her sister …
But will Ember like what she finds at the top of the mountain?
With hints of Alice in Wonderland, shades of The Phantom Tollbooth and echoes of Pixar’s Inside Out, this a thrilling, warm-hearted race through magical realms, a classic magical adventure, beautifully illustrated throughout.
In this episode, Louise Finch, joins us to talk about her Debut Novel, The Eternal Return of Clara Hart.
Emma chatted to Louise about tackling
Louisewas a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
***COMPETITION***
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of The Eternal Return of Clara Hart head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Claracomp and tell us what day you’d like to live on repeat.
In this episode, Janelle McCurdy, joins us to talk about her Debut Novel, Mia and the Lightcasters.
I chatted to Janelle about taking ten years to get published, Digimon, and video games influence on her writing.
Janelle was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
***COMPETITION***
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Mia and the Lightcasters head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Miacomp and tell us what 2 animals you’d combine to make your own unique Umbra.
Hey, hey, hey! Welcome back to the Big Kids Book Club.
It’s Tuesday, so what should we talk about today? How about new books!
Today we look at a book that’s either just been released or soon to be hitting shelves, but either way they should be on your wish lists!
Today’s book: Alex Neptune: The Dragon Thief by David Owen
Publisher: Usborne Publishing
Pages: 256
Release Date: 04/08/2022
Meet Alex Neptune, the boy with the power of the ocean in his hands – a brand-new hero for fans of Percy Jackson and Dragon Realm!
For as long as Alex Neptune can remember, the ocean has been trying to kill him. So he’s not too happy when a bunch of sea creatures drag him to the abandoned aquarium on the hill, where an imprisoned water dragon needs his help. But how can he say no to a magical myth?
Recruiting his tech-genius best friend Zoey, legend-lover Anil, a sharp-shooting octopus, four acrobatic otters and a thieving seagull, Alex plots a heist to break the dragon out. And suddenly discovers the power of the ocean at his fingertips…
In this episode, David Owen, joins us to talk about his Debut Middle Grade – Alex Neptune: Dragon Thief
I chatted to David about environmental issues, seaside mythology and whether or not seagulls count as sea animals??? You decide!
David was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
***COMPETITION***
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Alex Neptune: Dragon Thief head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Neptunecomp and tell us what’s your favourite sea creature?
Hey, hey, hey! Welcome back to the Big Kids Book Club.
It’s Tuesday, so what should we talk about today? How about new books!
Today we look at a book that’s either just been released or soon to be hitting shelves, but either way they should be on your wish lists!
Today’s book: Mia & the Lightcasters by Janelle McCurdy
Publisher: Faber & Faber
Pages: 416
Release Date: 04/08/2022
Beware of the shadows, the Reaper King is coming…
Mia always dreamed of being an umbra tamer until she met the wild creature on the Nightmare Plains. Since that day, she prefers to stay safe within the walls of Nubis. Safe, that is, until a surprise attack. With her parents captured, Mia’s only hope is to travel to the City of Light to find help.
But with only her little brother, two friends and one solitary tamed umbra, the journey feels impossible. Mia not only has to overcome her fears, she also has to learn to harness her umbra taming abilities if they are to complete the quest in time.
In this episode, Fleur Hitchcock, joins us to talk about her latest novel, Mouseheart.
I chatted to Fleur about writing in cities she knows, blending fact and fiction, and writing mysteries from back to front.
Fleur was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
***COMPETITION***
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Mouseheart head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Mousecomp and tell us your favourite play or musical
In this episode, Alex Cotter, joins us to talk about her latest novel, The Mermaid Call.
I chatted to Alex about writing a novel vs non-fiction, mental health in books, and the line between friend and villain.
Alex was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
***COMPETITION***
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of The Mermaid Call head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Mermaidcomp and tell us what sort of unique mermaid you’d like to be.
Hey, hey, hey! Welcome back to the Big Kids Book Club.
It’s Tuesday, so what should we talk about today? How about new books!
Today we look at a book that’s either just been released or soon to be hitting shelves, but either way they should be on your wish lists!
Today’s book: The Day No One Woke Up by Polly Ho-Yen
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Pages: 240
Release Date: 21/07/2022
Something strange is happening in Ana’s city… she’s the only one awake. Confused and curious, Ana sets off to explore, bumping into the one other person who’s been able to rouse themselves – her ex-best friend, Tio. On a mission to discover what’s happening, Ana and Tio journey through the city looking for clues, their friendship mending with every step.
When a mysterious creature suddenly materialises in front of them, Ana realises they’ve found the answer they’ve been looking for.
In this episode, Tom Vaughan, joins us to talk about his newest book, A Gangster Stole My Trunks.
I chatted to Tom about writing more humour, the challenge of murder mysteries, and finding story ideas at a retirement home.
Tomwas a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
***COMPETITION***
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of A Gangster Stole My Trunks head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Gangstercomp and tell us what themed cruise you’d love to go on?
In this episode, Natasha Devon, joins us to talk about her debut novel, Toxic
I chatted to Natasha about writing a novel vs non-fiction, mental health in books, and the line between friend and villain.
Natasha was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
***COMPETITION***
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Toxic head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Toxiccomp and tag a good friend.
Hey, hey, hey! Welcome back to the Big Kids Book Club.
It’s Tuesday, so what should we talk about today? How about new books!
Today we look at a book that’s either just been released or soon to be hitting shelves, but either way they should be on your wish lists!
Today’s book: Youngblood by Sasha Laurens
Publisher: Razorbill Publishing (Penguin Random House)
Pages: 416
Release Date: 19/07/2022 (US)
High school sucks. Especially for the undead.
Kat Finn and her mother can barely make ends meet living among humans. Like all vampires, they must drink Hema, an expensive synthetic blood substitute, to survive, as nearly all of humanity has been infected by a virus that’s fatal to vampires. Kat isn’t looking forward to an immortal life of barely scraping by, but when she learns she’s been accepted to the Harcote School, a prestigious prep school that’s secretly vampires-only, she knows her fortune is about to change.
Taylor Sanger has grown up in the wealthy vampire world, but she’s tired of its backward, conservative values—especially when it comes to sexuality, since she’s an out-and-proud lesbian. She only has to suffer through a two more years of Harcote before she’s free. But when she discovers her new roommate is Kat Finn, she’s horrified. Because she and Kat used to be best friends, a long time ago, and it didn’t end well.
When Taylor stumbles upon the dead body of a vampire, and Kat makes a shocking discovery in the school’s archives, the two realize that there are deep secrets at Harcote—secrets that link them to the most powerful figures in Vampirdom and to the synthetic blood they all rely on.
In this episode, Cat Gray, joins us to talk about her debut novel, Spellstoppers.
I chatted to Cat about writing another book as her debut then having to write a new one, enjoying magical worlds, and feeding owls.
Cat was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
***COMPETITION***
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Spellstopper head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Spellcomp and tell us what magical knick-knack you’d love to help around the house
Black Panther meets Percy Jackson in this action-packed and empowering middle-grade superhero series about a British-Nigerian girl who learns that her Afro hair has psychokinetic powers.
Onyeka has a lot of hair – the kind that makes strangers stop in the street. She’s always felt insecure about her vibrant curls, until she makes an important discovery: she can control her hair with her mind!
Her mother quickly whisks her off to the Academy of the Sun, a school in Nigeria where Solari – children with superpowers – are trained. But Onyeka and her new friends at the Academy soon have to put their powers to the test as they find themselves embroiled in a momentous battle between truth and lies…
When getting stuck into Onyeka, the first real comparison I had for it was with a Middle Grade, African version of X-Men. With the children with mutant like powers, a system to ranks them, and an elite school designed to help them navigate the world with these various abilities and gifts.
Placed into this is the very unique aspect of a protagonist with a power that runs through their hair and you have something that blends both interest and excitement. The initial chapters gives us a build up of Onyeka as a character, but when her powers awaken in a swimming accident, it becomes clear that there’s more than meets the eye and with her mum we’re transported back to Nigeria and a whole conspiracy of these super-humans known as Solari and their influence on the government and society.
Of course, Onyeka, having never been to Nigeria is beset with the culture shock initially, but finds that underneath the strange circumstances she finds herself in, she uncovers a conspiracy that entangles her family, and most directly her father – a wound that’s opened up through her time spent in Nigeria.
The action scenes are really engaging, and characters feel wonderfully diverse and fleshed out in what feels like a series that could really grow wings and become as big as say Percy Jackson, and others like it.
I listened to the Audiobook version of this and it was amazingly narrated by the wonderfully talented Nneka Okoye, who delivered chapter after chapter of engrossing story-telling, and enchanting characterisations.
An immediate additional to all Middle Grade TBR lists!
In this episode, Emma Finlayson-Palmer, joins us to talk about her debut novel, Autumn Moonbeam Dance Magic.
I chatted to Emma about positive rep in her books, how she’s written for every age range, and making books Spell-tacular.
Emma was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
***COMPETITION***
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Autumn Moonbeam Dance Magic head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Moonbeamcomp and tell us what song always gets you on the dancefloor.
Hey, hey, hey! Welcome back to the Big Kids Book Club.
It’s Tuesday, so what should we talk about today? How about new books!
Today we look at a book that’s either just been released or soon to be hitting shelves, but either way they should be on your wish lists!
Today’s book: Reluctant Vampire Queen by Jo Simmons
Publisher: Hot Key Books
Pages: 352
Release Date: 07/07/2022
Meet Mo Merrydrew – independent young woman, Mini Battenberg fan, president of the debating society – and reluctant vampire queen…
Fifteen-year-old Mo Merrydrew isn’t exactly expecting to be asked to be Vampire Queen of Great Britain when she’s cycling home from school one wet Tuesday evening. Apparently, she is ‘the Chosen One’. Aside from being uncomfortable with the idea of unelected power (not very democratic), there’s the blood drinking to consider (Mo is a vegetarian), and frankly it’s just not really the sort of role Mo’s looking for (she wants to aim for a real job in politics).
But – if you’re Vampire Queen, you probably don’t have to do PE any more, and when the dreamy Luca, a vampire familiar, turns up, it all suddenly starts to look a bit more appealing…
Geek Girl meets Buffy in a brilliantly funny new teen series from bestselling author Jo Simmons.
In this episode, P J Canning, joins us to talk about his debut book, 21% Monster.
I chatted to Peter about writing as a pantser, coming up with the book concept while eating crisps, and his 10 year journey to get published.
Peter was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
***COMPETITION***
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of 21% Monster head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Monstercomp and tell us what you’d like to be 21% of?
Hey, hey, hey! Welcome back to the Big Kids Book Club.
It’s Tuesday, so what should we talk about today? How about new books!
Today we look at a book that’s either just been released or soon to be hitting shelves, but either way they should be on your wish lists!
Today’s book: Toxic by Natasha Devon
Publisher: UCLan Publishing
Pages: 322
Release Date: 07/07/2022
Llewella has straight-A grades, a lead in the school play, a prefect badge, a successful blog and a comfortable life. Despite this, she feels like a brown, chubby square peg at a school full of thin, white girls.
She’s never had a best friend.
Could the new student at sixth form – glamorous, streetwise Aretha – be the one?
Llewella and Aretha get tight, quick. Before long, Llewella is following a diet Aretha has designed for her and has abandoned her own passions to dive headfirst into Aretha’s world.
She’s determined to be the most loyal, greatest friend she can be, even when Aretha says and does things which make her feel the opposite of great.
Even when the anxiety disorder she thought was cured starts to re-emerge.
In this episode, David Long, joins us to talk about his latest books, Spies and Tutankhamun’s Treasure.
I chatted to David about writing over 60 books, how much he writes vs research, and his love of histroy.
David was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
***COMPETITION***
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of tutankhamun’s treasure head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #pharaohcomp and tell us what law you’d make if pharaoh for a day
Hey, hey, hey! Welcome back to the Big Kids Book Club.
It’s Tuesday, so what should we talk about today? How about new books!
Today we look at a book that’s either just been released or soon to be hitting shelves, but either way they should be on your wish lists!
Today’s book: Empress Crowned In Red
Publisher: Hot Key Books
Pages: 768
Release Date: 07/06/2022
The hotly anticipated finale to the epic, fierce and magnetically addictive Caribbean-inspired Witches Steeped in Gold. Bow down witches…
Enemy witches Iraya and Jazmyne have each achieved their darkest desires. For the former, the doyenne who killed her family is dead. For the latter, the crown has been won. For both, their treacherous alliance is over – until a hidden evil rises from their last adversary’s ashes, forcing them to join forces once more to defend Aiyca and their respective orders.
Laying claim to the island of Iraya’s birth right and the bloody crown Jazmyne wears, this mysterious assailant is rearing monsters in the name of war. A war neither Iraya or Jazmyne are prepared to fight. New alliances must be forged to protect Aiyca and once again the two witches must work together to defeat an enemy who threatens both their worlds.
Who will be the one sitting on top of the throne in the end – Iraya, Jazmyne, or another? Two witches. One motive. And everything to fight for.
In this episode, A. M. Dassu, joins us to talk about her latest novel, Fight Back.
I chatted to Az about Boy, Everywhere getting buzz, the challenges of writing book two, and getting first drafts onto the page.
Az was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
***COMPETITION***
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Fight Back head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Aaliyahcomp and tag friend or family who’ll stand up with you against injustice.
Hey, hey, hey! Welcome back to the Big Kids Book Club.
It’s Thursday, so it’s time to jump right into another Mid-Week Review!
Today’s book: Into the Sideways World by Ross Welford
Publisher: Harper Collins
Pages: 416
Release Date: 20/01/2022
Suggested Age Range: 8+ Middle Grade
Genre(s): Adventure, Time-Travel, Other Worlds, Science Fiction
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (out of 5)
When twelve-year-olds Willa and Manny hear of a mysterious animal prowling their town, they are determined to prove it is real. Following the creature into a cave one full moon, they are swept into an alternate, ideal, world – one where pollution and conflict have been conquered decades ago and even their own families seem happier.
But when they return, no one believes them. So, with a global war looming in their own world, their quest for proof of the Sideways World becomes ever-more urgent, in a nail-biting race against time.
And Willa and Manny will have to make an impossible decision: because once you find a perfect world, can you ever leave it behind?
The story of Into the Sideways World is one that takes a little to get into. The premise is that it’s about 20 years in the future, and the world is on the precipice of war. (scarily relevant right???)
As Willamina, known simply as Willa to her family watches the nightly news, she finds herself worrying about her father being reactivated for active service should World War III break out. Added to this the financial decay of their family’s holiday park business is putting a strain on her parent’s relationship, and her sister Alex is stand-offish, Willa finds only her friend Manny for comfort.
When they first go into the strange world, its off the back of this mutant animal and a cave – the whole premise is a bit wibbly-wobbly, but then what sci-fi, time travel story isn’t without it’s fair share of make-believe.
It takes them a while to come to terms with the new world – there’s so many changes. 1. Dad no longer has his beard and him and mum are very much in love. 2. Her brother, who died just 8 days old survived thanks to better medical advances in this sideways world. And more importantly, 3. there’s no impending war here.
It takes Willa and Manny a day to come to terms with the fact that they’ve not travel forward or backwards in time – but sideways. All thanks to the change of 1 single moment in our history. A missed shot, and a grasped opportunity.
The books twists about the concept of peace, compromise, and stopping and listening to one another to a whole other level, with it’s impact able to cure more than our obsession with killing one another. But with the WWW (World Without War) celebrations approaching, Willa and Manny head back to their world, and come up with a plan to return to the Sideways world as they call it to get evidence that a world of peace is a possibility – before it’s too late!
I liked the drama and characters interaction in the book. I particularly liked the exploration of the brother’s character, with Willa getting to know the boy who was gone before she was born, and finding a peace in living a day in somebody else’s shoe, namely, her own self from another world.
Ross’s writing style is pensive, but full of charm and not without humour. Which is important when handling heavy exterior themes such as war and the fallout that it has at the family level. The seriousness is balanced by the heart-warming interactions between the family members, and reflects the inner thoughts and feelings of words unspoken, and the power they have should we find the courage to say them.
Overall, I feel with the way the world is at the moment – the greater historical climate we’re living through, I think this book holds up to be one of Ross’ best and deepest.
Perfect for a project in the classroom, or simply to read at home and think. A real conversation starter.
In this episode, Fiona Longmuir, joins us to talk about her debut novel, Looking for Emily
I chatted to Fiona about entering pitch comps on a whim, how strange clock museums inspire a writer, and possible Drop Dead Fred inspired sequels.
Fiona was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
***COMPETITION***
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Looking for Emily head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Emilycomp and tell us what you like to do at the seaside?
Hey, hey, hey! Welcome back to the Big Kids Book Club.
It’s Tuesday, so what should we talk about today? How about new books!
Today we look at a book that’s either just been released or soon to be hitting shelves, but either way they should be on your wish lists!
Today’s book: Spies by David Long & Illustrated by Terri Po
Publisher: Faber & Faber
Pages: 224
Release Date: 02/06/2022
A single spy can save thousands upon thousands of lives…
For as long as there have been secrets to keep, there have been spies, the world over, trying to uncover this classified information. Spying goes on all the time, and everywhere, but some of the most astonishing exploits occur during wartime.
The stories in this beautiful collection unpick some of the most astonishing missions undertaken during World War Two – actions that helped to save many lives. Amazingly, many of these tales had to remain a deadly secret at the time and are little known even to this day.
Discover twenty-seven of the most courageous and daring, including: Giliana Gerson, Britain’s first female spy, Harry Ree, teacher turned saboteur, Margery Booth, the spy who sang for Hitler, Roald Dahl, the spy who became a bestselling author, Noor Inayat Khan, the first woman wireless operator, Scotch Lass, Britain’s smallest ever agent, ‘Major Martin’ the man who never was and many more!
Welcome back to the show. Today we’ve got a special episode for you! We were recently invited to come up to NYALit Fest at UCLan (Preston) for a weekend with all our favourite authors. During the weekend, UCLan Publishing – the hosts of the festival – gave us our own little room to record in, so we did what we did best and spoke to authors about their books, the festival, and more!
Come listen to our mad capped adventures here, as the second part to finish off our experience there.
In this episode, Yarrow Townsend, joins us to talk about her latest novel, Map of Leaves
I chatted to Yarrow about blending experiences of nature into the book, stories from a riverboat and getting translated to German.
Yarrow was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
***COMPETITION***
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Map of Leaves head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #LeavesComp and if you could ask a tree a question, what would you ask?
Winter was the only season every Lake-Lander feared…
In a post-apocalyptic America, a community survives in a national park, surrounded by water that keeps the Dead at bay. But when winter comes, there’s nothing to stop them from crossing the ice.
Then homebody Peter puts the camp in danger by naively allowing a stranger to come ashore and he’s forced to leave the community of Wranglestone. Now he must help rancher Cooper, the boy he’s always watched from afar, herd the Dead from their shores before the lake freezes over. But as love blossoms, a dark discovery reveals the sanctuary’s secret past. One that forces the pair to question everything they’ve ever known.
Peter’s trying his best in a world that’s harsh and resentful, full of mistrust and aggression. In the lakes of Wranglestone, the small community of survives only get by thanks to taking the extreme measures required. But Peter forgets these when a stranger arrives on a canoe with their dying wife… and finds a knife in his gut for his troubles.
This spirals into a look at the human condition, and what it truly means to live when the world is dead and dying. They call the resurrected dead monsters, but who truly is the monster in this world?
And if that wasn’t bad enough, not only is Peter’s having trouble enough with the community of survivors, but he’s also having trouble coming to terms with who he is and his emotions for the handsome and rugged Cooper. The boy is the perfect outdoorsman to Peter’s naïve indoory being. Can two such polar opposite people really attract?
But not all is as it seems, as the infected within the community are left out for the masked ones to come and collect them. Nobody knows where they are taken, but when Cooper becomes infected too, Peter’s not about to let him simply be given away as nothing more than dead meat. T
The boys discover that love can conquer many barriers – death being just one of them. And when their homes are in danger, they’ll work as one to show everybody the true monsters working behind the scenes.
Hey, hey, hey! Welcome back to the Big Kids Book Club.
It’s Tuesday, so what should we talk about today? How about new books!
Today we look at a book that’s either just been released or soon to be hitting shelves, but either way they should be on your wish lists!
Today’s book: Secrets of the Shadow Beast by Diane Magras
Publisher: Penguin Random House
Pages: 336
Release Date: 14/06/2022
In Brannland, terrifying beasts called Umbrae roam freely once the sun sets, so venomous that a single bite will kill a full-grown adult—and lately, with each day that passes, their population seems to double.
The only people who can destroy them are immune children like Nora, who are recruited at the age of seven to leave their families behind and begin training at a retrofitted castle called Noye’s Hill.
But despite her immunity, Nora’s father refused to let her go. Now, years after his death by Umbra attack, Nora is twelve, and sees her mother almost killed by the monsters too. That’s when Nora decides it’s time for her to join the battle.
Once she arrives at Noye’s Hill, though, she and her new friends are left with more questions than answers: Where are the Umbrae coming from?
Could the government be covering up the true reason their population has whirled out of control?
And was Nora’s father, the peaceful, big-hearted man who refused to let Nora fight, in on the treacherous secret?
Welcome back to the show. Today we’ve got a special episode for you! We were recently invited to come up to NYALit Fest at UCLan (Preston) for a weekend with all our favourite authors. During the weekend, UCLan Publishing – the hosts of the festival – gave us our own little room to record in, so we did what we did best and spoke to authors about their books, the festival, and more!
Come listen to our mad capped adventures here, with a second part coming out very soon!
In this episode, Keren David, joins us to talk about her latest novel, Say No to the Dress
I chatted to Keren about how writing stories for friendship, exploring Jewish heritage, and the positive message of saying YES!
Keren was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
***COMPETITION***
If you want to be in with a chance of winning 1 of 10 copies of Say No to the Dress head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #DressComp and tell us what colour you look good/like to wear?
Two girls on opposite sides of a war discover they’re fighting for a common purpose—and falling for each other—in Zoe Hana Mikuta’s high-octane debut Gearbreakers, perfect for fans of Pacific Rim, Pierce Brown’s Red Rising Saga, and Marie Lu’s Legend series.
We went past praying to deities and started to build them instead...
The shadow of Godolia’s tyrannical rule is spreading, aided by their giant mechanized weapons known as Windups. War and oppression are everyday constants for the people of the Badlands, who live under the thumb of their cruel Godolia overlords.
Eris Shindanai is a Gearbreaker, a brash young rebel who specializes in taking down Windups from the inside. When one of her missions goes awry and she finds herself in a Godolia prison, Eris meets Sona Steelcrest, a cybernetically enhanced Windup pilot. At first Eris sees Sona as her mortal enemy, but Sona has a secret: She has intentionally infiltrated the Windup program to destroy Godolia from within.
As the clock ticks down to their deadliest mission yet, a direct attack to end Godolia’s reign once and for all, Eris and Sona grow closer—as comrades, friends, and perhaps something more…
This book really sucked me in with the premise – cyberpunk style badass mecha pilots and a corrupt regime to burn from the inside – errr… yes please!
But the story is far more than just a theme pasted liberally over a blanket YA story – instead Zoe has written a wonderfully angsty novel full of morally grey characters that delve into the very best that YA has to offer. The richness of the world comes alive from the very 1st page and it juggles quite a lot of sci-fi terms and ideas, that while for a sci-fi fan like myself are vibrant and creative takes on well-trodden and loved series for inspiration, are introduced in a way that fans dipping their toes into heavy Sci-fi for the first time won’t be scared off.
That being said, I do feel like this book resonated more with me because the themes are ones that I’ve fully got behind, because I won’t lie that there’s possibly some characters that I feel are not necessary, or that I wasn’t the biggest fan of, but then there are moments where I was forced to sit the f**k down and finish the chapter and to hell to all my other God-damn responsibilities because I was so invested in what happened next.
The character dynamics between Eris and Sona are for sure the highlights beyond giant mech battles and the revolutionary drama, as it’s a twisting, bubbling mess but in all the right ways. As the book progresses and more and more of their relationship starts fitting into place, you find yourself rooting for them come the final chapters and “Hell to the YES!” was that a great ending to the book.
That being said, I do think that YA Sci-Fi is always a harder sell to the general YA market, as the concept, then any Fantasy/Romance YA. Alas, I suppose I’m in the minority, but after finishing the book, I’m more than happy to be.
Pride Month promotes: W/W Relationships 🏳️🌈 🧯🐙🐐🎀🩱
In this episode, Helena Close joins us to talk about her latest novel, Things I Know.
I chatted to Helena about how writing stories in all their messiness, bringing hope out in novels, as well as the woes of being a Munster fan.
Helena was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
***COMPETITION***
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Things I Know head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #SaoirseComp and tag in your friends and family who support you.
Hey, hey, hey! Welcome back to the Big Kids Book Club.
It’s Tuesday, so what should we talk about today? How about new books!
Today we look at a book that’s either just been released or soon to be hitting shelves, but either way they should be on your wish lists!
Today’s book: TJ Powar Has Something to Prove by Jesmeen Kaur Deo
Publisher: Nosy Crow
Pages: 272
Release Date: 02/06/2022
When TJ Powar—a pretty, popular debater—and her cousin Simran become the subject of a meme: with TJ being the “expectation” of dating an Indian girl and her Sikh cousin who does not remove her body hair being the “reality”—TJ decides to take a stand.
She ditches her razors, cancels her waxing appointments, and sets a debate resolution for herself: “This House Believes That TJ Powar can be her hairy self, and still be beautiful.” Only, as she sets about proving her point, she starts to seriously doubt anyone could care about her just the way she is—even when the infuriating boy from a rival debate team seems determined to prove otherwise.
As her carefully crafted sense of self begins to crumble, TJ realizes that winning this debate may cost her far more than the space between her eyebrows. And that the hardest judge to convince of her arguments might just be herself.
In this episode, we’re live at NYA Lit Fest 2022, talking to authors Ann Sei lin, Gabriela Houston, and Jennifer Claessen.
We caught up with friend of the show, Gabriela, about updates for her upsoming books, while Jennifer spoke to us about her debut novel, October Witches, coming out from UCLan Publishing in September.
I chatted to Ann about how writing the influences for Rebel Skies, what it feels like to be a debut author, and the wonder of seeing fans in person.
Ann, Gabriella and Jennifer were great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful they were able to join us on the show.
***COMPETITION***
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Rebel Skies head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #RebelComp and tell us what Origami creature you’d bring to life with magic?
In this episode, Katie Clapham joins us to talk about her debut novel, Three Girls.
Katie chatted to Emma about how writing the importance of friendship, writing good guys into YA, and finding the magic in every day stories.
Katie was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
***COMPETITION***
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Three Girls head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #GirlsComp and tag in your two best friends!
Hey, hey, hey! Welcome back to the Big Kids Book Club.
It’s Thursday, so it’s time to jump right into another Mid-Week Review!
Today’s book: S.T.E.A.L.T.H Access Denied by Jason Rohan
Publisher: Nosy Crow
Pages: 304
Release Date: 07/04/2022
Suggested Age Range: 8+ Middle Grade
Genre(s): Action, Adventure, Robots, Sci-Fi
Star Rating: 🤖🤖🤖🤖🤖(out of 5)
They’re in a race to save his dad… and the world.
When his dad disappears, Arun Lal is amazed to discover that he was secretly working on a classified project and has been kidnapped by people intent on stealing it. Along with his geeky best friend Sam and tough-talking Donna, Arun is plunged into a race to rescue his father and find his creation before the thieves can turn it into a destructive global weapon…
Full of thrilling high-octane car chases and more, this is the first in an explosive new action-adventure middle grade series. Perfect for readers aged 9+ and fans of Alex Rider, CHERUB and Mission: Impossible. Arun, Donna and Sam are ordinary school kids with an extraordinary secret. They are S.T.E.A.L.T.H., a crack team of agents in charge of the most cutting-edge piece of tech the world doesn’t know exists: MANDROID. Always flying under the radar, they solve crimes, prevent disasters and rescue the innocent – and they STILL have to get their homework in on time!
S.T.E.A.L.T.H Access denied is a story that really encapsulates the excitement and fun of Alex Rider, without the necessarily overly elaborate plots of a boy-spy/secret agent. Instead, the story begins as Arun skips school with his friends Donna and Sam, with the trio coming face to face with a mysterious stranger within the first few paragraphs.
This sets us up for what is a roaringly fast paced action thriller, sort of like the drama “24”, with a race against time to save Arun’s father and to save the world from imminent danger.
The banter between the three main characters is strong, as is their general dynamics. Each of them have their own personality, while offering something specific to the table – be that Arun puzzle solving, Donna quick thinking, or Sam’s technical knowledge. The group works well and I think most readers will find their favourite among them in a sort of Percy Jackson or HP, middle grade trio protagonist groups way.
The core plot is involved, exciting, and it really keeps up at pacy beat – never allowing for the book to drag, but then never being too skinny on the details or the description. Together with the blend of narrative, mainly from Arun’s POV, but with small interludes from alternative POVs, you get a full sense of the chaos unfolding before them.
The final third of the book reveals what is the premise moving into the future books in the series, with the arrival of MANDROID, and what this means for Arun and his friends. In a sense this is very much a prequel book, laying down the valuable groundwork for even bigger and better books to come, but that doesn’t make it any less special! A great read.
A must buy for: Fans of Alex Rider or Thunderbirds.
In this episode, Jason Rohan, joined us on the show to talk about his newest novel, S.T.E.A.L.T.H: Access Denied
Jason and I chatted about the working for Marvel, creating stories and then trunking them, and how influences like Thunderbirds
Jason was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
***COMPETITION***
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of S.T.E.A.L.T.H: Access Denied head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #STEALTHcomp and tell us if you’d rather be a super-hero or evil genius.
Hey, hey, hey! Welcome back to the Big Kids Book Club.
It’s Tuesday, so what should we talk about today? How about new books!
Today we look at a book that’s either just been released or soon to be hitting shelves, but either way they should be on your wish lists!
Today’s book: Looking For Emilyby Fiona Longmuir
Publisher: Nosy Crow
Pages: 272
Release Date: 02/06/2022
A hugely gripping, fast-paced mystery adventure, with brilliant twists and turns, from a fresh and exciting new voice in children’s books.
When twelve-year-old Lily moves to the sleepy seaside town of Edge, she’s sure that nothing exciting is ever going to happen to her again. But when she stumbles upon a secret museum hidden in the middle of town, she realises that there might be more to her new home than meets the eye.
The Museum of Emily is filled with the belongings of one seemingly ordinary girl – a girl who, many years ago, disappeared from the town without a trace.
With the help of her new friends Sam and Jay, Lily is determined to solve the mystery and find out who Emily was, why she disappeared and who has created the strange, hidden museum.
With a one-of-a-kind mystery, a brilliant trio of protagonists, and an action-filled story, Looking for Emily is the unmissable middle grade debut of 2022.
It’s the end of the month so I’m joined by Rab (@rabtales), Emma (@EmmaKeane10) and Laura (@librarylaurapod) to talk about our monthly topic. This month is Mental Health Awareness May, where we talk about positive representation and media in the Middle Grade and Young Adult genre.
Before we start this episode, below are some links to resources that you or anybody can use to promote positive Mental Health Awareness, depending on your respective region.
How’s it going Big Kids Book Club fans? Now, no doubt the eagled eyed among you might realise that somethings have changed around here at the BKBC HQ?
Well, since the last few months and 2022 in particular, the podcast has bumped up a notch in terms of viewership, followers, and our partnerships with publishers meaning that it was time to turn this little side hustle into a full blown thing!!!
Additionally, my amazing friend, Emma, is picking up a lot more solo interviews and effectively has become the podcast’s full official co-host, as well as TikToker extraordinaire…
Yes. I did just say TikTok… We’re on TikTok peeps!
So, this whole upscaling of the podcast has meant that we’re making more content for you to enjoy, as well a slick brand new look for the website, podcast, and all our social media; including this beautiful brand, spanking new logo!
Isn’t it beautiful?
We think so 😊
But it’s super exciting for what’s coming up for the podcast. We’re looking at more ways to engage with more authors, fans, bloggers, and other industry reps.
We’ll also be looking at how we can do more for the listeners, and we’ll have more information coming very, very, very soon about some very exciting ideas and opportunities 😆
We’ll be updating all our social media over the next few weeks, so anything currently not updated will be, and we’ll be putting out a load more content which we’d love to have your feedback on.
I’ll finish here with a very cute photo of myself, Emma, and friend of the show Rab at the recent NYALitFest up in Preston at the University of Central Lancashire, with the amazing publishers UCLan Publishing. An amazing weekend we’ll always remember.
But that’s all for this weekend – have a great one. Don’t forget to check out our bookshop, where you can support us and help us grow. Additionally, if you’re not already, follow us on Twitter and TikTok.
But until next time…
Take Care, Stay Safe, But most importantly, Keep on Reading.
In this episode, David Valdes, joined Emma on the show to talk about his newest novel, Spin Me Right Round
David and Emma chatted about the fun of time travel, the difficulties of sexual identity in the past, and when you know an idea is a book or a play!
David was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
***COMPETITION***
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Spin Me Right Round head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Spincomp and tell us what one thing from the 80’s you’d love to see come back into fashion.
In this episode, Sophie Cameron, joins us to talk about her newest Middle Grade novel, Our Sister Again.
Sophie and I chatted about how writing YA at university, tackling issues of grief, and how becoming a mother change her view on stories.
Sophie was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
***COMPETITION***
If you want to be in with a chance of winning a copy of Our Sister Again head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Floracomp and share a memory of a precious loved one.
bigkidsbookclub.com 