Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Finbar Hawkins, joins us to talk about his second YA novel, Stone.
I chatted to Finbar about writing scripts then books, struggling to write pain on the page, and more.
Finbar was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
https://open.spotify.com/episode/6OCvpMgmRc37vXoCxrmHJh?si=771d7114726b49fd
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Victoria Williamson, joins us to talk about her latest novel, War of the Wind
I chatted to Victoria about her always writing, how being a teacher helped her as a writer, and more.
Victoria 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 War of the Wind head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #WindComp and tell us of a unique way the wind could help our day to day lives?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 7th October
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Anne-Marie Conway, joins us to talk about her latest novel, How to be More Hedgehog
I chatted to Anne-Marie about her inspirations as a drama teacher, how characters come from very real sources, and more.
Anne-Marie 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 How to Be More Hedgehog head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #HedgehogComp and what creature you’d like to be more of?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 5th October
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 Girl, the Ghost and the Lost Name by Reece Carter
Publisher: Usborne Publishing
Pages: 352
Release Date: 29/09/2022
Maybe some ghosts enjoy walking through walls and being invisible – not me. I never asked to be a kid ghost.
With no memory of the kid she was before she was taken by the Witches, Corpse is bound to haunt the rock-that-doesn’t-exist for ever.
Until she learns of a treasure, one that can reunite Corpse with her family and her name.
She must set off for answers, on a journey across the stormy sea, battling magic, zombie-skeletons and monsters.
But the Witches want the treasure too. And they’ll do anything to get to it first.
Welcome to Elston-Fright, a forgotten town where witches lurk, sea monsters roam and a girl is on the hunt for answers…
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Reece Carter, joins us to talk about his debut middle grade novel, The Girl, The Ghost, and the Lost Name.
I chatted to Reece about coming up with spooky stories, his love of writing from school, and not being held back when writing.
Reece 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 The Girl, The Ghost, and the Lost Name head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Ghostcomp and tell us what place you’d like to haunt.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 3rd October
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, we go back into the depths of our archives to reveal our talk with Kieran Larwood, author of the 5 Realms series.
Kieran and I chatted about the fantasy stories that inspired him, how his drawings fuelled his imagination, and the joy of winning the Blue Peter Award.
Kieran was so fantastic to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Enjoy!
The Competition is closed on this archive episode.
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: As Long As the Lemon Trees Grow by Zoulfa Katouh
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing
Pages: 448
Release Date: 15/09/2022
Burning with the fires of hope and possibility, As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow will sweep you up and never let you go.
Salama Kassab was a pharmacy student when the cries for freedom broke out in Syria. She still had her parents and her big brother; she still had her home. She was even supposed to be meeting a boy to talk about marriage.
Now Salama volunteers at a hospital in Homs, helping the wounded who flood through the doors. She knows that she should be thinking about leaving, but who will help the people of her beloved country if she doesn’t? With her heart so conflicted, her mind has conjured a vision to spur her to action. His name is Khawf, and he haunts her nights with hallucinations of everything she has lost. But even with Khawf pressing her to leave, when she crosses paths with Kenan, the boy she was supposed to meet on that fateful day, she starts to doubt her resolve in leaving home at all.
Soon, Salama must learn to see the events around her for what they truly are-not a war, but a revolution-and decide how she, too, will cry for Syria’s freedom.
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Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Amy McCaw, joins us to talk about her latest YA novel, Mina and the Slayers
I chatted to Amy about her love of gothic novels, New Orleans as inspiration and more.
Amy 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 Mina and the Slayers head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #MinaComp and what creature of the night would you prefer to be turned into?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 23rd September
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Sarah Todd-Taylor, joins us to talk about her latest MG novel, Alice Eclair Spy Extraordinaire
I chatted to Sarah about her love of trains, all things spying, and more!
Sarah 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 Alice Eclair Spy Extraordinaire head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub. Send us a tweet using the hashtag #EclairComp and tell us your favourite sweet treat
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 21st September
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: Stone by Finbar Hawkins
Publisher: Head of Zeus / Zephyr Publishing
Pages: 288
Release Date: 01/09/2022
When Sam, grieving the death of his father, finds a silver-flecked stone, ice-cold to the touch, strange and eerie things begin to happen.
Myth, legend, magic and witchcraft mingle on the ancient hillside where the chalk white horse has galloped for centuries. Ravens wheel. Wolves prowl.
As Halloween draws close, witches dance. Odin gathers brave, fallen warriors to his side.
Only the mysterious new girl, Oona, can heal Sam’s heart, revealing tarot secrets with her bewitching ways.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, James Nicol, joins us to talk about his latest middle grade novel, The Spell Tailors
I chatted to James about memory tins, how the story becomes the readers when authors are done, and more.
James 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 Spell Tailors head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Tailorscomp and tell us what magical piece of clothing you’d love to own?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 19th September
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Natalie C Parker, joins us to talk about her debut MG novel, The Devouring Wolf.
I chatted to Natalie about werewolf facts, setting her werewolves in Kansas, and writing MG over YA.
Natalie was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
You can find more about Natalie and her books on her website: https://www.nataliecparker.com/
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Will Taylor, joins us to talk about his newest middle novel, The Language of Seabirds.
I chatted to Will about his writing journey, writing feelings for the first time, and how much of a history nerd he is at heart.
Will was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Check out more about Chris and his books at https://www.willtaylorbooks.com/
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Chris Whitaker, joins us to talk about his Debut young adult novel, The Forevers.
I chatted to Chris about success in writing, writing adult vs YA novels, and a whole lot more.
Chris was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
Check out more about Chris and his books at https://www.chriswhitaker.com/
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Catherine Doyle, joins us to talk about her latest MG novel, The Lost Girl King.
I chatted to Catherine about Celtic mythology, Tír na nÓg, and writing multiple books at once.
Catherine 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 Lost Girl King head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Kingcomp and tell us who you’d cross the world to save?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 9th September
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Angharad Walker, joins us to talk about her latest novel, Once Upon a Fever.
I chatted to Angharad about writing children’s fiction by accident, crafting the story through lockdown, and finally getting to see it out in the world.
Angharad 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 Once Upon a Fever head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Fevercomp and tell us if you’re the more level headed sibling, or the rebellious/adventurous one?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 7th September
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: Space Blasters: Suzie Saves the Universe by Katie Tsang & Kevin Tsang
Publisher: Farshore
Pages: 224
Release Date: 04/08/2022
From the authors of the Dragon Realm and Sam Wu series comes a rip-roaring intergalactic adventure featuring a gadget-obsessed girl who gets sucked into her favourite sci-fi TV show.
Save the universe in the awesome and hilarious new space-themed adventure series from bestselling authors Katie and Kevin Tsang!
Suzie Wen LOVES gadgets and inventing things – but her inventions don’t always turn out how she expects… and when Suzie invents the Super 3DTV Gizmo she ends up getting transported into her favourite TV show – Space Blasters!
On board the space ship with Captain Jane, Spaceman Jack and alien with attitude Five-Eyed Frank, Suzie is soon exploring new planets – like the smelly Planet Cheddar – and meeting plenty of aliens. But when moons start disappearing, it’s up to Suzie to save the universe. Can she put her inventing skills to use? And will she ever get home?
STEM themes woven throughout, including real mindbending space facts and pages from Suzie’s inventors’ notebook.
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Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Sufiya Ahmed, joins us to talk about her latest novel, Rosie Raja – Churchill’s Spy.
I chatted to Sufiya about writing books, history of heroes in WW2 and more.
Sufiya 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 Rosie Raja – Churchill’s Spy head over to Twitter and follow @BigKidsBookClub.
Send us a tweet using the hashtag #Rosiecomp and crack this code – ..-. .-. . . -.. — —
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 26th August
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
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.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 24th August
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.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
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.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 19th August
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
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.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 17th August
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…
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Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
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?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 12th August
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Kate Foster, joins us to talk about her debut novel here in the UK, PAWS.
I chatted to Kate about writing autistic characters, the friendship between dogs and people, and the balance of being an author.
Kate was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Check out PAWS from Walker Books – Out 4th August
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.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
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
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 8th August
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
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.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 5th August
EPISODE 150!!!!!!!
Thanks to everybody who’s supported the show up to now.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Lauren Wolk, joins us to talk about her latest novel, My Own Lightning
I chatted to Lauren about writing books set in settings dear to her, getting to write full time, and finding herself doubting success.
Lauren was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
My Own Lightning is out now in both the US and UK from Penguin Random House.
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.
But one question still remains: Why them?
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
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?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 1st August
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
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.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 29th July
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Sasha Laurens, joins us to talk about her latest novel, Youngblood.
I chatted to Sasha about studying Russian literature, writing characters struggling against the system, and more.
Sasha was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Find out more about the book here: Youngblood at Barnes & Noble
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.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
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
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 22nd July
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: Onyeka and the Academy of the Sun by Tola Okogwu
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Pages: 320
Release Date: 09/066/02/2022
Suggested Age Range: 9+ MG
Genre(s): Science Fiction, Action, Adventure, Mystery
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐(out of 5)
Waterstones Children’s Book of the Month for June 2022
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!
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Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
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.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 20th July
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.
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Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
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?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 15th July
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Simon Packham, joins us to talk about his latest book, Has Anyone Seen Archie Ebbs?
Out now from Firefly Press
I chatted to Simon about writing from acting, finding empathy in books, and rewriting the book multiple times.
Simon was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful he was able to join us on the show.
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.
Isn’t that how friendships work?
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Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
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
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 8th July
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Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Charley Robinson, joins us to talk about her YA Book Box subscription – Paper Orange
I chatted to Charley about her love of YA books, starting her own YA book festival and how to choose what goes into a book box subscription.
Charley was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Check out the Paper Orange YA Book Box here https://www.paperorange.uk/
Also check out Charley’s Etsy shop here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/lauracharleydesign
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Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
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.
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 1st July
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Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
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?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 29th June
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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.
Hey hey hey!
Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
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?
(UK residents only)
The competition closes midnight on 24th June
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: Wranglestone by Darren Charlton
Publisher: Little Tiger Press
Pages: 384
Release Date: 06/02/2020
Suggested Age Range: 13+ YA
Genre(s): Science Fiction, Horror, Post-Apocalypse, LGBTQ+
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (out of 5)
Shortlisted for the YA Book Prize 2021
Shortlisted for the Costa Children’s Book Award 2020
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.
Perfect for fans of: Warm Bodies by Isaac Marion
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Welcome back to this week’s Author Interview.
In this episode, Diane Magras, joins us to talk about her latest novel, Secret of the Shadow Beasts.
I chatted to Diane about blending video games into fiction, how Scotland is an inspiration, and re-writing the Hobbit at bedtime.
Diane was a great guest to have on the show and we are very grateful she was able to join us on the show.
Check out the book here: https://www.dianemagras.com/books/secret-of-the-shadow-beasts/
Hey hey hey!
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!
bigkidsbookclub.com 