Younger readers
Hotel Flamingo, Alex Milway
A really wonderful first chapter book that celebrates a young girl's determination and the power of working together. Anna inherits the crumbling Hotel Flamingo from her great aunt. But, this is no ordinary hotel - all of her staff and her guests are animals. Will she have the courage to make it a success again? Warm-hearted and a delight to read. It's packed full of really lovely illustrations too.
Confident Readers
The Good Thieves, Katherine Rundell
A heist story set in 1920s New York. Vita Marlowe, the plucky heroine, whom polio has left with a weakened leg, is determined to break into the home her grandfather has lost to criminals and steal back his treasure. She will need to enlist the help of circus boys Arkady and Sam, with their acrobatic skill and gift for charming animals, and Silk, the pickpocket. She must also rely on her own skills as a marksman. This is a beautifully written book from start to finish.
Young Adult
Clap When You Land, Elizabeth Acevedo
Written entirely in verse, this book tells the story of two sisters who know nothing about each other. Camino lives in the Dominican Republic and Yahaira in New York. When their Papi dies in a plane crash they must come to terms with their father’s deceit and the impact it will have on their families. Grief, loss, love and forgiveness are the major themes here. Incredible writing.