Central Teen Reading Group

Chronicles of a Lizard Nobody
Epic adventure, great character description and definitely one of the best book ive read in the last few months.

Lea

Wolf Siren
I thought this book addressed sexism in an almost discreet way, the main character wasn’t fully aware and rather it was just her society tho to the reader it’s a clear issue. I find this is a really good representation of how it’s seen in society as well as building awareness in younger readers, the mothers attitude compared to the protagonists is telling of how people’s awareness of these things grows with age. It’s also empowering to young readers as it is a great example of kids vs adults in ideas and reminds all readers that kids have great, fresh ideas and opinions too and deserve to be listened to. Overall I’d recommend as a great take on the fairy tale but also a deeper eye opening read. :)

Willow

Not Going To Plan
I found this book to be a really enjoyable and emotive read. The characters were intricate and detailed allowing for very realistic storytelling. I’ve always loved books in verse and I thought this was an intresting use, very fitting for the different perspectives. I’d definitely recommend on account for its drama and relatability. :)

Willow

Popcorn
Pop Corn is about a boy called Andrew and how he copes with his anxiety. It was very good and fun to read by using cartoon/Illustrations to show his feelings

Xavier

Chronicles of a Lizard Nobody
The book is about three Lizards friends (Zeke, Daniel and Alicia) trying to stop an evil Pelican bully called Pelicarnassus from attacking France. France just happens to be on Zeke the Lizard's knee! It is very funny and has lots of amusing moments, but also we find out that one of the characters has lost a family member, which has had a huge impact on their whole life. I really liked the illustrations in the text as it helped me imagine the characters better. I really want to read more about the characters, so I was really happy to find out there are more books in the series.

Xavier

Birdie
Birdie is a well researched and touching tale set in a post war Yorkshire mining community. A young girl, Birdie, is trying to find her way in a new community, whilst navigating new friendships, fighting racism and prejudice, along with demonstrating unwavering loyalty and compassion to a pit pony named Mr Duke. Birdie also fights to discover more about her family heritage and the sense of understanding this brings her. A thought provoking and moving read.

Sue

Popcorn
I really enjoyed this book, which is filled with humour, pathos and a realistic depiction of anxiety. Set over the course of one day, it was a roller coaster ride. Despite everything going wrong that could go wrong, the supporting characters helped Andrew get through.

Caroline

Ghostlines 
I loved listening to this book on Libby, as the narrator’s Scottish accent transported me to the Island and authentically voiced the characters. I particularly enjoyed the sense of adventure and exploration in the novel and the references to wildlife and customs. Throughout, Tilda is focused on her own feelings and love for the Island and finds it difficult to listen and understand Albie and her brother Rowan’s feelings and experiences. This drives the narrative, sense of loss, peril and reconciliation at the end.

Caroline