Senior School Book Recommendations

Thank you for your feedback regarding the Book Recommendations. It has been lovely to hear how some students have been inspired by their peers to try a new book or series.

Next term, Year 4 will embark on a novel study of Kensuke's Kingdom, which is one of my all-time favourites. Kensuke's Kingdom is written by Michael Morpurgo, an incredible author based in Cornwall, near my hometown. I may be a little biased, but I think the setting descriptions are particularly beautiful and awe inspiring.

Michael Morpurgo also wrote War Horse, Adolphus Tips, and many other children's classics. My recommendation this week would be to pick up anything by Michael Morpurgo for Year 3 students and older. Just avoid Kensuke's Kingdom if you are in Year 3 or 4... we don't want any spoilers next term!

Here are some of the children's recommendations.

Year 3 Recommendations

Maeve recommends the Lottie Brookes series by Katie Kirby. Maeve reported that she loves these stories as they are funny. She particularly likes the diary style and stories about friendship and embarrassing moments. This series has been around a while and is particularly good for students who enjoy a fast paced and relatable storyline. Students who like Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Dork Diaries will enjoy this series.

Benedict recommends Stink by Megan McDonald. Stink is Judy Moody's little curious and imaginative brother. Benedict loves these stories as they make him laugh and take him on adventures to lots of different planets. The Stink series by Megan McDonald is a perfect bridge from picture books to longer novels to improve reading stamina and promote engagement. With plenty of humour, quirky facts, and lively illustrations, these books are a great choice for engaging children.

Year 4 Recommendations

Charlotte recommends Bailey Finch Takes a Stand by Ingrid Laguna. Charlotte likes this book because the character has to be very brave. She also really likes that we learn a lot about the main character's dog. This is a great book which addresses some important themes, including standing up for yourself and others and finding the confidence to speak up even when it is hard or scary to do so.

Grace also recommended the Lottie Brookes series. She says it is really funny and keeps her interested all the way through.

Mason recommends The Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien. Mason said he likes this epic book because it has lots of action, like battles and dangerous adventures. The Lord of the Rings is an exceptional book. I would recommend it to students who already have a passion for reading and enjoy taking on a more challenging text. It is long, and some of the vocabulary and descriptive language is very advanced.

Year 5 Recommendations

Milo recommends Skulduggery Pleasant by Derek Landy. Milo likes this book because there is excitement on every page. He loves the humour, magic, and adventure. Milo says, "Anyone who likes horror and comedy will enjoy this."

Evie recommends Figgy in the World by Tamsin Janu. Evie likes this book because it has lots of drama, and she loves drama. Figgy is a unique, strong, and brave character. Evie recommends this book to anyone who likes drama and mystery.

Elsie recommends Ali Cross by James Patterson. Elsie likes this book because it is interesting. Ali is a detective's son who solves mysteries and goes on adventures. Elsie enjoys listening to this as an audiobook. 

Audiobooks are  a great way to ensure reluctant readers or busy children with multiple after-school commitments still have access to engaging stories and hear plenty of high-level vocabulary and book talk.

Claire Dusting

Year 5CD Teacher and Years 3-6 English Leader

cdusting@sjelst.catholic.edu.au