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May marks the official start of summer, the perfect time to start thinking about books and reading lists for the holidays. Today, we’re looking at some of the best books for children and teens published this month, with something in here for every age and interest.
For early readers, we have an underwater adventure, a time-travel story, a retelling of Aesop’s Fables and the arrival of Dog Man as Gaeilge! For 10-plus, a brilliant title about the death of a childhood friend and a story about an unlikely hero gaining superpowers. Finally for older readers, an LGBTQ+ coming of age story and a thrilling new murder mystery.
The Pain in the Chest by Áine Murray and Bronagh Lee (The O’Brien Press), for readers aged four-plus, is an insightful debut on anxiety, exploring how focusing on the ‘what ifs’ can keep us from experiencing life at its fullest. Featuring eye-catching illustrations, we follow a little girl who is constantly held back from trying new things by the pain in her chest. A useful story for little readers who can find their worries overwhelming.
You’re So Amazing! by James & Lucy Catchpole and Karen George (Faber & Faber), also for four-plus, is the story of Joe, a fantastic no-nonsense character, who knows he is amazing — because everyone keeps telling him so. But Joe doesn’t see what’s so brilliant, brave and inspiring about doing ordinary things with a physical disability. Thoughtful and very funny, Joe makes us all think twice about our response to disability.
A Limerick Fairytale by Gráinne O’Brien and Lena Stawowy (The O’Brien Press), ages four-plus, is a retelling of ‘Cinderella’ that puts the city of Limerick on centre stage. Prince Hugo is desperate to find a perfect Princess. During a ball in Curraghchase House, he meets his match in Limerella; who promptly ignores his advances. Perfect for readers who love a tale with a twist, with fabulous illustrations showcasing some of Limerick’s most famous spots.
My Brother is an Avocado by Tracy...