Category Archives: Blog

Howling Stones book review

I read this short chapter book to see if it might be suitable for some 7 and 8 year old children I know. The theme of the story is very topical especially as natural habitats are being lost and biodiversity declining with the loss of some species. The story is fast paced with interesting language… Continue Reading

World Book Day

Happy World Book Day! Today seems the perfect time to say a big thank you to all my readers and those who have supported me in my writing. There are obviously lots of budding footballers out there as according to my latest Public Lending Right figures which keeps track of books borrowed in libraries, Mole… Continue Reading

Chick-a-boo launch

It was great to receive my first copies of Chick-a-boo, my latest yellow early reader about a cheeky runaway chick. It is published by Maverick Books and is delightfully illustrated by Natasha Rimmington. For details see http://www.bookdepository.com/Chick-a-boo- Amanda-Brandon/9781848868137        Continue Reading

Roman Tales – The Chariot Race

If you are studying the Roman period in primary school then check out my story The Chariot Race in the colourful and lively Storytime – a plastic free monthly magazine with great stories and activities for youngsters, plus there are downloadable teaching resources and books to win. The story appears in issue 83 and features a… Continue Reading

World Book Day

World Book Day is fast approaching and is a celebration of reading. The event is marked on March 4 but books can be enjoyed any day of the year. Sharing stories together for just ten minutes a day can encourage a child’s love of reading and improve their vocabulary. Picture books are also a great… Continue Reading

Guided Reading for home schoolers

When families are self-isolating or home schooling, there’s no better time to share a story or two. There are plenty of fantastic reads available with follow-up activities to spark children’s imaginations. When learning to read children need plenty of practice and lots of encouragement which hopefully will lead to a life long love of reading.… Continue Reading

Unicorn Training – the magic is here!

Unicorn Training is out now! The story of naughty Splodge and his owner Tilly has been brought to life thanks to the fantastic illustrations of Mike Byrne and there are also a smattering of sparkles across the cover to add that touch of magic. For more details see http://www.quartoknows.com/books/9780711251175/Unicorn-Training.html Continue Reading

Knit in Public Day

Granny Mutton says get those needles clicking for the largest knitting event in the world. World Wide Knit in Public Day. Knitters from 57 countries will be taking part and events in the UK will be held on June 8 including Blake House Craft Centre, near Braintree, Brentwood Art Trail, The Yarn Dispensary Faversham, The… Continue Reading

Mole in Goal scores a hit

Mole in Goal has scored a hit review with Cathy of Chez L’Abeille, an early years teacher and blogger who described it as “a great book in which disability is sensitively explored.” To see the full review go to http://www.beecathy.wordpress.com Continue Reading