Books Worth Reading
Discover Something Wonderful
Reading is about so much more than examinations.
A good book can transport us to unfamiliar places, introduce us to extraordinary characters and challenge the way we see the world.
Here I'll share books I've enjoyed, stories that have stayed with me and recommendations for readers who want to explore beyond their school texts.
Some will be modern classics, others contemporary fiction. All will offer something worth discovering.
This Term's Recommended Read
The Whale Rider
Witi Ihimaera
Set within a Māori community in New Zealand, The Whale Rider tells the story of Kahu, a young girl whose extraordinary connection with the whales, the environment and her indigenous culture challenges generations of tradition.
Blending myth, cultural heritage and contemporary life, this beautifully written novel explores family, identity, belonging and the courage to challenge expectations.
Why I recommend it
You will laugh, you will cry, and you will feel a profound admiration for Kahu and those who accompany her on her extraordinary journey to find her place among her people.
What makes this book particularly rewarding is the way it invites us into a different culture while exploring questions that are familiar to us all.
It is a story to enjoy, reflect upon and return to.
Something to think about:
Can we respect tradition while recognising that some things need to change?
More Books to Discover
The Explorer
Katherine Rundell
A thrilling adventure set in the Amazon rainforest, celebrating friendship, courage and the wonder of discovery.
A Kind of Spark
Elle McNicoll
When Addie learns about the women accused of witchcraft in her Scottish village, she begins a campaign to honour their memory.
A moving and thought-provoking story about difference, understanding and finding the courage to make your voice heard.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
Mark Haddon
Recommended for older readers, 13+. Contains strong language and mature themes.
When Christopher sets out to investigate the mysterious death of a neighbour's dog, he discovers unexpected truths about his family.
A fascinating novel that challenges our assumptions about difference, communication and the ways we understand the world.
The Boy at the Back of the Class
Onjali Q. Raúf
When a new boy joins their class, a group of children discovers that he has fled his home because of war.
A moving and often humorous story about friendship, kindness and the extraordinary difference ordinary people can make.
Preparing for the 11+?
Reading widely is one of the most valuable ways to develop vocabulary, comprehension and confidence with unfamiliar texts.
Our dedicated 11+ Recommended Reading List introduces children to classic literature, with rich language, varied sentence structures and opportunities to explore different literary periods.
Above all, reading should be enjoyable. Encourage children to explore books that capture their imagination, whether classics or contemporary stories.