Lord of the Flies by William Golding Review

During the silent but terrifying Cold War William Golding produced his masterpiece, Lord of the Flies. Not only is it a gripping tale about a group of schoolboys forced to survive on a deserted island after a plane crash, it is also a brilliant allegorical tale about the conflicts between civilization and primal savagery. This simple and easy to understand symbolism has made Lord of … Continue reading Lord of the Flies by William Golding Review

Popular children’s author Joanna Cole dies aged 75

Joanna Cole, the author of the Magic School Bus series of children’s books has sadly passed away at the age of 75. The cause of death was announced as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. “Joanna Cole had the perfect touch for blending science and story,” Dick Robinson, the Scholastic chairman and CEO said in a statement released on Wednesday. “Joanna’s books, packed with equal parts humor and … Continue reading Popular children’s author Joanna Cole dies aged 75

The Amulet of Samarkand Review

The Amulet of Samarkand is a very unique novel, and one that bridges the gap between children’s and young adult fiction with great success. This is the story of an ambitious but young magician and an ancient exasperated demon bound to do this childs bidding. For children this is a nice challenging read, and for adults it’s a witty, fast paced adventure tale with plenty … Continue reading The Amulet of Samarkand Review

The Indian in the Cupboard Review

When Omri turns nine he is disappointed to find that all his best friend Patrick got him was a small plastic native American brave. He also gets a metal cupboard from his older brother, a cupboard which can be locked by a mysterious skeleton key that had once belonged to his great-grandmother. Omri places the little figure in the cupboard over night and turns the … Continue reading The Indian in the Cupboard Review

James Clyde and the Diamonds of Orchestra Review

James Clyde did not have the greatest start in life, as an infant he was deposited at a children’s home by his wounded, blood-soaked grandfather. As a result, he grows up under a cloud of mystery. His grandfather remains in his life and James always visits him over the Christmas holidays, he is a rather unusual man it has to be said. It is on … Continue reading James Clyde and the Diamonds of Orchestra Review