BCS Book Squad
Ghostlines
Very good book. Not my favourite though. But it is very readable.
Natalie
Wolf Siren
Awesome book, would read again and recommend to other people.
Natalie
Not Going To Plan
Although I don't usually read books written in verse, after a recommendation from a couple of my friends I loved it: I thought the format of this book made it more impactful and I especially liked the creative ways the words were shown. This was the kind of book where every moment you're not reading it, you're thinking about and wishing you were reading it. It was powerful and interesting and empowering and it really made me think about the important issues raised in the book. It all felt really real and honest and I would really recommend it, even if it's a bit different from what you'd normally read!
Evelyn
The Boy I Love
I loved this book, even though it nearly made me cry at the end! I would describe it as a reminder that the LGBTQ+ has always been here, and will always be here no matter how society can try to hide us. I particularly liked the way that none of the characters were perfect, and that made them seem so much more real. This book was amazing and such an important and moving read. I would really recommend it!
Evelyn
Wolf Siren
Wolf Siren by Beth O’Brien is a compelling addition to a school library’s fantasy collection, offering a fresh and thoughtful reimagining of the familiar Little Red Riding Hood tale. Told from a new perspective, the novel weaves together themes of power, identity, and feminism within a richly imagined and magical world that is likely to appeal to younger secondary readers.
The protagonist, Red, possesses the unusual ability to control wolves—creatures that are feared and hunted within her village. This creates a strong narrative tension, while also introducing meaningful moral questions that encourage readers to think critically about fear, prejudice, and responsibility. Red’s internal struggle between obedience and independent thought is particularly well developed, making her a relatable and engaging character for students.
O’Brien’s world-building is a notable strength. The setting is vivid and immersive, enhanced by background stories and subtle references to the original fairy tale, which can help spark students’ interest in both classic and modern storytelling traditions.
One aspect to be mindful of is the pacing of Red’s journey; she spends a significant portion of the novel without a clearly defined goal, which may challenge some readers’ engagement. However, this also provides opportunities for discussion about character development and narrative structure in a classroom or reading group setting.
Overall, Wolf Siren is an enjoyable and accessible fantasy novel that would suit students, particularly those who enjoy magical worlds and character-driven stories. It is a worthwhile recommendation for students who are fans of fantasy and fairy tale retellings.
Mrs Ward
Popcorn
Popcorn by Rob Harrell is one of those books that makes you laugh—until it suddenly doesn’t.
It takes on a lot: anxiety, OCD, bullying, family pressure, and a grandmother living with Alzheimer’s disease—which hit especially hard, as Alzheimer’s is close to my heart. And yet, it never feels overwhelming. Instead, it holds you there, balancing humour and heaviness in a way that feels real.
The portrayal of anxiety is painfully accurate—the slow build, the spiralling thoughts, the sense that everything is about to “pop.” The kernel metaphor works brilliantly. What stands out too is how naturally coping strategies are woven into the story—no preaching, just quiet, useful support.
Andrew is easy to root for because he keeps trying, even when everything is going wrong. His friendships feel genuine, and the thread with his grandma is handled with such tenderness—no drama, just that quiet, recognisable grief.
This book really understands children as whole people dealing with big things. It’s funny, honest, and deeply kind. One I’d hand to any student who feels things a little too much.
Mrs Ward
Not Going To Plan
I was prepared to not like Not Going to Plan by Tia Fisher as not really being a lover of books written in verse, but I was very surprised as I loved it. It is an honest, engaging novel that really connects with young readers. It follows Marnie, who is suddenly expelled from her prestigious boarding school just before her GCSEs and forced to rebuild her life somewhere new. In her new school, she finds herself sitting next to Zed—quiet, highly intelligent, and seemingly her complete opposite.
Marnie shines in creative subjects like art and Spanish, while Zed excels in maths and science, but they quickly realise they share the same determination to succeed. What starts as a practical study arrangement gradually grows into something more meaningful, forming a bond neither of them expected.
One of the novel’s biggest strengths is how real the characters feel. Marnie isn’t portrayed as perfect, which makes her relatable, and her struggles with emotions, school pressure, and relationships give the story real depth. Her connection with Zed is especially compelling, and when their friendship is tested by an unfair and painful situation, it adds a powerful emotional layer to the story.
The book explores a range of important themes, including mental health, trust, growing up, and facing consequences. It also highlights how important support systems—friends and family—can be during difficult times. Despite tackling serious issues, the writing remains approachable, with moments of humour that balance the heavier topics.
Overall, it’s a thoughtful and memorable read that feels genuine and relevant, offering meaningful insights into choices, resilience, and what it means to grow up.
Mrs Ward
Chronicles of a Lizard Nobody
Chronicles of a Lizard Nobody by Patrick Ness is a warm, funny, and quietly powerful story about standing out, feeling unseen, and discovering your own worth. At its heart is Zeke, a timid young lizard who drifts through school convinced that no one really notices him. As the plot unfolds, a series of surprising and sometimes chaotic moments push him to step outside his comfort zone, slowly revealing a braver, more confident version of himself.
Zeke is an easy character to root for. His worries about fitting in and his sense of invisibility feel incredibly real, echoing emotions many readers will recognise from their own lives. The book balances these tender themes with plenty of humour—Zeke’s and his friends awkward mishaps are both entertaining and endearing—and the lively illustrations bring extra personality and warmth to the story.
The only part I found a little confusing was the whole “France on the knee” idea. At certain points, France starts talking, but it’s never entirely clear who is speaking—is it meant to be the president, or the country itself? It’s an odd detail, and the book doesn’t fully explain it. Still, if you simply accept it as one of the story’s quirky touches, as a younger reader (the book’s intended audience) likely would, it doesn’t get in the way of the overall enjoyment.
What makes the novel especially memorable is its message. Beneath the laughs and light-hearted moments lies a reminder that even when you feel small or overlooked, your presence still matters. It’s a story that entertains while gently encouraging readers to see their own value.
Mrs Ward