SCD Pageturners

Shrapnel Boys
Shrapnel boys was personally one of the best books ive ever read. With every page i turned my heart was actually beating to see if there would be another downfall or surprise.

Maryam

Ghostlines 
At first I was hesitant about this book but as soon as I started reading it I could not put it down. It was such a magical book it made me feel like part of the community on Ayrie. This book is a must read its so good!

Maya

Ghostlines 
Ghostlines was very magical. I felt like i was actually there on that island. I loved the theme of hope and the journey Tilda and Albie went on together mentally where they became friends and that Tilda improved her character by actually listening to others

Maryam

Chronicles of a Lizard Nobody
This book was really funny I loved the whole book. The pictures were brilliant and made me laugh out loud so much. I would definitely recommend this book.

Maya

Chronicles of a Lizard Nobody
This was a very nice read. Alicia was my favourite character (sorry Zeke), her bubbly charcter always improves my day! I also enjoy when it adds comedy like at the beginning (no spoilers). The only problem is that I know hate pelicans with every bone in my body.

Isabelle

Wolf Siren
I would definitely recommend this book.The ending was brilliant. I absolutely loved the book. it has a really good storyline and really well thought out characters. This book is a must read.

Maya

Wolf Siren
Wolf Siren is definitely my favourite of the Carnegies. It was such a magical read and the way it confronted real societal issues was really well written. I loved the writing style and was a really nice book to be absorbed into.

Elise

Chronicles of a Lizard Nobody
I found this book really enjoyable. It is such a stark contrast to the other books written by Ness. I absolutely loved the bird who wore sunglasses. I can't remember his name but he was hilarious. :)

Elise

Shrapnel Boys
Shrapnel boys was a great book. I love reading books set in World War 2 ,they always seem some of the most exciting adventure stories. The books follows brothers Ronnie and Mickey through the start of World War 2. Throughout the novel Ronnie becomes increasingly set on getting Micky away from the dangerous new life he is leading. I have never read a book set in World War 2 that focuses on fascism in the UK in World war 2 and It gave me more insight on what was happening in England. I liked the rising stakes throughout the book and I liked the fact it slowed down during the middle of the book and focused on the title ,Shrapnel Boys, it gave a nice break and a rest from the tension of the book (even though made me want to get back on the drama of the book). The title (Shrapnel Boys) was one of the things I disliked about the book .The book hardly focused on shrapnel and (as the blurb said it did) on Shrapnel hunting. The cover art also didn't make sense as it focuses on six boys which is misleading because people may think the six boys are the Shrapnel Boys and this is not true as only the three protagonists were given the name Shrapnel Boys. A great book, but the cover, not so great. But overall... I LOVED IT

Raphael

Shrapnel Boys
This book was amazing. I enjoyed reading this so much I was literally glued to the book! I would highly recommend it as it was one of my favorite books that I have read this year.

Maya

Wolf Siren
This is my favourite of the books I have read so far! I loved the twist on the original fairytale and the idea of the Wolfwomen.

Hannah

Black Star
Black Star was a great book, for me most of it embodies summer and the carefree element of it but I think it got a bit too dark at the end but over all I loved it and enjoyed the different style of writing. I have never played Baseball and I loved the fact It revolved around it showing sports are so much more than a game they can be the difference between happiness and unhappiness and you should always fight for equality for all. I LOVED IT

Raphael

On the Wall
On The Wall was an beautiful book. It was so peaceful and calm without it getting boring. it's a good book to get away from action while it stays engaging. I do wish it stayed from one point of views without too many main characters. As it was sometimes confusing. I absolutely loved it. Definitely recommend.

Lara

Shrapnel Boys
Shrapnel Boys was a good book. I loved the plot idea of living in World War 2 and establishing the good from the bad. It explores the bond of brothers and the fear of war. Following Ronnie, Lugs and Mickey on their adventure in the war was thrilling and fun. I do wish the plot moved faster and was as tiny bit more about the title as the story didn't really revolve around Shrapnel. It feels underwhelming since the title makes me think I'm about to read a story about Shrapnel boys. Overall a wonderful book just not for me :)

Lara

Popcorn
I loved reading popcorn. The illustrations were brilliant, it was super funny and made me understand what anxiety felt like. I would totally recommend this book to anyone.

Maya

Black Star
I didnt really like it but it was a very good book but had an un satisfactory ending but it had so much pontential like summer baseball a black girl trying to fit in

Henry

Shrapnel Boys
Absolutely AMAZING story with awesome cover artwork and a very satisfying ending :) It's got beautifully written characters and each of them have different personalities and opinions which helps us almost live in the book. Also, brilliant research btw :)

Annabella

Popcorn
Books about mental health can sometimes feel really isolated, but Popcorn by Rob Harrell does a brilliant job of showing how the chaotic problems of the world can weigh heavily on a kid's shoulders. The entire story takes place over just a single day—school photograph day—which is stressful enough on its own. For the main character, Andrew, his anxiety makes the day feel like an absolute minefield. What makes the book so unique is the way it honestly shows the feelings of children to adults. It captures that frustrating barrier where kids are dealing with massive, overwhelming emotions inside, but the adults around them don't always notice or know how to help. Andrew's anxiety acts like a lens for how intense the world can feel, with the book's title acting as a perfect metaphor for how his thoughts start bubbling up and popping out of control under pressure. Yet, despite dealing with these heavy themes, Andrew is a really likable, funny character, and his voice feels completely genuine. The humor keeps the story moving fast, and it highlights how crucial friendship is when you're trying to cope with things you can't quite explain to the grown-ups in your life. It is a fantastic, fast-paced read that strikes the perfect balance between a chaotic school comedy and a deeply empathetic look at how young people experience the world. Anyone who has ever felt overwhelmed by life or felt like the adults around them just didn't get it will completely relate to this.

Jasmin

Chronicles of a Lizard Nobody
It is pretty rare to find a book that is completely chaotic but also feels like a warm hug, but Chronicles of a Lizard Nobody manages to do both. On the surface, it’s a story about monitor lizards navigating the everyday drama of school, which sounds totally bizarre. But once you get into it, you realize Patrick Ness has written something really sweet. The main characters, Zeke and Daniel, are just trying to fly under the radar. When they get made Hall Monitors, it turns their lives upside down, forcing them into all sorts of weird situations with a cast of animal classmates. What makes the book so lovely to read is that it doesn’t treat school problems like a massive, terrifying ordeal, nor does it preach at you. Instead, it uses humor to gently take the sting out of things like bullying and trying to fit in. It reminds you that everyone—even the people who seem scary or mean—is usually just dealing with their own strange stuff. The illustrations by Tim Miller are amazing, too. They have this gentle, sketchy charm that brings the characters to life and makes the whole book feel really comforting to flip through. If you need a break from heavy reading and just want something that will make you smile and feel a bit better about the world, this is a brilliant one to pick up.5 stars

Jasmin

Chronicles of a Lizard Nobody
Chronicles of a Lizard Nobody (Gosh, what a long title!) was a very good read. It was so funny. I loved how it explored traits of different species of animals and yet, that each animal had individuality. I flew through it, because it was such a simple read. The climax was so unexpected! I hadn’t thought it would be so…captivating. Anyways, I would recommend it to young people, maybe those interested in animals, because it is simple to understand and it features lots of animals. Overall, a unique and amusing story for all ages. Totally worth reading.

Kayla

Wolf Siren
Wolf siren... Where do I start. Wolf siren is such a captivating tale and it has been the best carnegie book that I have ever read. With a heartfelt plot to the most amazing charecters. An awesome read!

Lara

Shrapnel Boys
This is my second review I have written on this book. The last time was a month or two ago but I haven't been able to forget this book. It is amazing. I felt during reading this like I was with the main characters. When they got hurt I was genuinely scared and anxious. I have never had this with another book. It is an amazing piece of writing. I don't know why this is longlisted if anything it should win. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book. I hope in future there will be more amazing historical, heart-warming fiction books

Isabelle

Birdie
I really liked the book I also fell in love with Mr Duke and the ending was my favourite part. I would definitely recommend this book for other readers.

Maya

Birdie
Birdie was a very good book for me. I really enjoyed the relationship between her and mr Duke, and found the critisism she got very emotional. It was super nice to see that there were actually some people who liked Birdie for who she was and makes me think anyone can change

Maryam

Popcorn
It was a very funny but meaningful book with a great storyline. The illustrations made me laugh every time and the book was very absorbing. It got me thinking about anxiety and feeling sympathetic towards people with it. It is a great book and I would recommend it to teenagers and children alike as it has a great moral, is an easy read but also talks about big topics made interesting with wonderful illustrations. I would definitely recommend it.

Botond

On the Wall
This was a really astonishing book I loved it like never before. This book was about a boy who is so centered he is quiet and collected I loved him from the first time he was described to me 10/10 would recommend

Isaac

On the Wall
ON THE WALL was a really good book it embodies mindfulness and the important concept of being in the present moment. It was great and I personally really enjoyed reading it. the only things I did not like was the fact some of the chapters were not so cohesive and some of them were a bit random and there were a few too many characters. but the fact that it was written in a bit of a different way was really interesting. I LOVED IT.

Raphael

Popcorn
Popcorn was a really nice read. It was really relatable and I loved the illustrations too! I think some of the coping techniques taught in the book are very applicable to real-life (for me) and I loved the idea of anxiety like a corn kernel. It was clever and witty. I would recommend to those who want a chill read, something simple yet moving. Five stars!!!

Kayla

On the Wall
I absolutely loved this book! It was such a calming read that was easy to understand. It was so enjoyable to sit down and be absorbed into this world. The way the boy exuded peace just translated through the pages and into me. Reading it was lovely

Elise

Wolf Siren
I really enjoyed Wolf Siren and I love how it acknowledges some themes that aren’t really in other books like disabilities and periods. The plot twist near the end was kind of unexpected but also made sense, overall a great book! :)

Annabella

Popcorn
I am not into reading but I say this book blew me away. Seriously I have never been more intrigued to know what happened next. Popcorn is a book by Rob Harrell this book is about a boy with anxiety going through one of his toughest days in the book. It is picture day and he is having the worst day ever. First a bully pins him to a wall and threatens him then a serious accident staining results in a new t-shirt. You will have to read to know is he ok 10/10 would recommend.

isaac

Popcorn
I found this book so interesting. You can't see how someone feels by looking at them. So seeing how his anxiety works is really interesting, I have never seen this in anonther book. p.s I love the font size and drawings :)

Isabelle

Ghostlines 
Ghostlines is a very captivating book that entices you and bribes you to read more. It has a wonderful story and is quite sad at the start because you think... (edited to prevent spoilers). I think this is a beautiful finishing and it is definitely a must read novel.

Amaru

On the Wall
This book was good, but rather slow. In my opinion, despite it saying that Finlay isn't thinking, he seems quite lost, as in he is drifting. However, Not all who wander are lost. P.S. Goodbye, Wall

Rahul

Birdie
Birdie was a great book, the protagonist Birdie Bagshaw embodies everything we should be, she is kind to animals, she is kind to people and she is brave, she shows us to never give up and to fight for who we love. The book is also very eye opening and shows us what young black people had to go through in the 1900s and it show us to always stand up for our friends if they are bullied. I LOVED IT.

Raphael

Shrapnel Boys
It was a very absorbing book that kept me thinking about Ronnie's problems all day. The storyline was great and it kept me in suspense until the very end. It displayed the effects of war on children very well. Showing the children's lives growing up in World War II, this book really inspired me to not give up hope even in hard times.

Botond

On the Wall
I really liked On the wall because I enjoyed the writing style and the storyline kind of spoke to me. It's because I get quiet and I get on with stuff but sometimes I just sit and I don't think. So it was nice to see it happen to someone else and how other people saw it. It just made me feel seen in a way I haven't seen in a book before.

Carolina

Shrapnel Boys
Shrapnel boys is an amazing book and I really love how dramatic and descriptive it is. I felt like I was in the book and I had a vivid image of the scenes. I would definitely recommend this book to everyone.

Benjamin

Popcorn
i really loved this book as it is something i deal with and i was so happy when i felt heard

Henry

Chronicles of a Lizard Nobody
I really liked this book and i loved how random this book could get at times and it was so funny because of the sashes and i loved this whole book in general and is such a fun thing to discuss

Henry

Wolf Siren
I loved this book, it really had me waiting for the next time I could sit down and read. It was a great book about bonds with nature and about how to not listen to the people who tell you that you can't do something.

Botond

Shrapnel Boys
i loved this book because it was all about trying your best and never giving up

Kyra

Wolf Siren
I really enjoyed this book because the setting of the woods was really brought to life for me, especially because i experienced it the same way that Red did, where she couldn't see everything how it is normally but how it was for her.

Maryam

Black Star
i loved how it was set out and a very quick read, it was very a interesting read

Kyra

Wolf Siren
I really liked Wolf Siren. It was one of the first Carnegie books I read, and I really enjoyed it! It was a beautiful fantasy tale. It had heartwarming characters. It charmed me. Five stars!

Kayla

Shrapnel Boys
Shrapnel Boys was a really fun read! I am always a fan of historical fiction in WW2, and this book certainly gave that! It was such a nice read! It’s about a boy called Ronnie, and it’s almost like a mystery book! It thrilled me to no end! I would recommend it to those who like historical fiction, like me! Five stars! ;D

Kayla

On the Wall
I don’t think there is any other book that can rival the amazingness of this book! It’s such a simple read, whilst at the same time so compelling and beautiful. I flew through it and loved it! The character dynamics are really cool, and I found the characters really relatable. I’d recommend to those who want a cozy read or an effortless experience. Five stars!

Kayla

Wolf Siren
I really enjoyed reading Wolf Siren it was a really great book I really loved the fact it was based of a fairytail but with a twist.

Raphael

Ghostlines 
I loved Ghostlines. It was a very relatable read and the main character, Tilda, was really lovable. I've read another book by the author, and obviously Balen did NOT disappoint! I loved the way it was written, with all its "and"s and continuous non-stop thought process. I loved the way it explored life on an island. Would recommend to those who love an adventure. Five stars!

Kayla

Black Star
I loved Black Star a lot. I am a very firm lover of verse novels, and the title is really nice. It wasn't that long of a read, and I loved the character dynamics, especially Sox and Cool Willie Green's relationship with Charley. I really like that it tackles racism and femininity and has a strong determined personality. Five stars!

Kayla

Birdie
This book is a beautiful, the author researched this so deeply and clearly cared about the pit ponies, miners and the characters.

Isabelle

Birdie
I think Birdie was a good book. I really liked the main character Birdie Bagshaw and her determination to save the pit pony, Mr Dukes (I think that's his name). I also really loved her relationship with Walter and the way the story tackles racism. I do wish that the cover had a better view of Mr Dukes, with his importance in the story and whatnot. Overall, a good read and would recommend to those who are interested in animals and perhaps history. It does use a lot of "thee"/"thou" if that bothers you, but it's fine with me. Loved it!

Kayla

Shrapnel Boys
Shrapnel Boys is the Best Book I've read so far. It is very easy to get behind Ronnie's motivation and to really, really hate Johnny. You feel all the same emotions as the the protagonist, the plot is exciting and dramatic, and Mr. Etherington being a War Veteran is great. Tiger is the Best, I rate this book 9.6/10

Rahul

Not Going To Plan
This verse novel was so so so good! It was so well paced and intriguing, I read it in only two days! The characters were so well written and loveable. The storyline was so believable and relevant to modern day as well as being interesting and engaging. The topics dealt with in the book were approached with sensitivity and maturity. I hope to read more verse novels in the future because I enjoyed this one so much. If you're looking for a quick, easy read then this is definitely the book for you!!!

Roseanna

Ghostlines 
The book Ghostlines is about a girl called Tilda who lives on the Island of Ayrie. The book has a lot of beautiful imagery and the protagonists are amazing and the journey they go on is very eye opening, a real page turner. The only things I didn't like was the plot was a bit rushed. I LOVED IT.

Raphael

On the Wall
this book is amazing as it is quite a chill book and a quick read it is also very nice and sweet book to read and enjoy

Kyra

When It's Your Turn for Midnight
This was a rather good Book, I'd give it a 7.738/10 -The Plot seemed Clear but was also fleshed out. - A good blend between Pass and Pressure - Likeable Characters - Liked the Parts abou the War - Happy but importantly Satisfying ending

Rahul

Popcorn
I really enjoyed popcorn as it is a really good book. At first I was a little unsure but I really enjoyed it. It displays a character with anxiety and their struggles at school picture day. It has a deeper theme of accepting issues, bullying and mental health issues and how it affects peoples lives. I would recommend this book.

Carolina

Popcorn
i liked the book because i liked the part about anxiety was my Favourite part 10/10

Jaxon

Birdie
Birdie's character is so unique, she talks sooooo much but it fills her role properly, she's also smart and courageous making this a lovely read.

Isabelle

Wolf Siren
I really loved this book although it is quite sad because it portrays females in a needy way however i love it as it shows feminine resistance and girl power!

Kyra

Shrapnel Boys
It is impossible not to care about the characters! The story had me on the edge of my seat!

Isabelle

Ghostlines 
Ghostlines is one of the best books I have ever read! From the engaging plot to the amazing characters, it is such a great read. I highly recomend.

Lara

Birdie
I love how this book shows how much animals can hep us adapt to changes, like Birdie and Mr Duke. he is such a sweet pony!

Hannah

On the Wall
I love the characters in this book, and how they help each other in small ways but end up making a big difference.

Hannah

The Boy I Love
This book was amazing! The beautiful storyline was so intriguing and the characters were so loveable and interesting. I loved how the reader finds out more about Danny and Stephens' backgrounds as they get to know each other. Stephen's traumas and PTSD was so well written and I loved how he started to acknowledge it more as the book went on. I wouldn't normally reach for a romance book, especially not if it isn't set in or around the present day but this book has definitely changed that! The boys' relationship is obviously so carefully created and realistic for the time period. I loved Stephen's character development as he looked to make Danny more serious but instead became more relaxed and happy himself. The two personalities compliment each other so nicely and I love the characters so much! The bittersweet ending was so beautiful and I couldn't think of a more fitting ending for the couple. If you are looking for a book to make you laugh, cry and everything in between, 'The Boy I Love' is definitely the book for you!

Roseanna

Black Star
Black Star follows the story of Charlene 'Charley' Cuffey. A determined 12 year old in America (with origins in Upper Kwanta/Ghana) during the 1920s . it takes you along her journey as she struggles with racism and segregation whilst trying to pursue her dream in becoming the first female baseball player. Black Star is the second in it's series and Charley is the grand-daughter of Kofi the protagonist of Door of No Return (the first book). The book is a verse novel and shows the story from Charley's eyes in poem form. Whilst effective the storyline could become quite confusing in some places. The representation of Charley is quite relatable as she is a girl trying to fight for her passion even if the present day has less racist struggles. Interestingly at the beginning of some chapters Nana Kofi shares his story with Charley. It gives insights on what happened to Kofi after the end of Door of No Return however you don't need to read the first book to understand Black Star. I love the link between the two books as you find out about Kofi's story whilst following his grand-daughter on her own adventure,struggles and you see how his life impacts hers. This book is emotional and will touch your heart. I would recommend this book to readers aged 11-14 who enjoy verse novels with historical fiction and a touch of adventure.

Lara

Birdie
This book is amazing I recommend this book so much. It is a beautiful, easy-to read story that got me lost into the pages of this book. I love the friendship between Birdie and Mr Duke. I loved it!!!!

Kyra

Wolf Siren
FIVE STARS!!! It was a really fun and interesting book to read! I couldn’t put it down and it had an awful lot of twists I wasn’t expecting! I absolutely enjoyed it and totally recommend to anyone and everyone. It isn’t gory or anything, so feel free to share with younger siblings!

Kayla