Anita Loughrey's blog. This is my journal about my experiences and thoughts on writing. As well as news about me and my books, it includes writing tips, book reviews, author interviews and blog tours.
For more information about me and my books see my website: www.anitaloughrey.com. Follow me on Twitter @amloughrey, Facebook @anitaloughrey.author and on Instagram @anitaloughrey
To celebrate today’s launch of Pirate Academy: Sword Echoes (Thursday 29th May), I’m thrilled to share my review of the latest swashbuckling instalment in this action-packed series. With betrayals, magical secrets and high-seas adventures, Book 3 takes readers deeper into the world of the Pirate Federation and the dangerous League of True Pirates.
Find out why this gripping new chapter is a must-read for fans of daring missions and unforgettable characters.
********
Title: Pirate Academy: Sword Echoes
Written by: Justin Somper
Illustrated by: Teo Skaffa
Published by: UClan Publishing
Sword Echoes, the third book in the Pirate Academy series, picks up immediately after the events of Book 2, launching readers straight into another thrilling adventure filled with unexpected twists and double-crossing characters.
The story begins with a shocking revelation: a beloved teacher from Barracuda Class is unmasked as an agent of the League of True Pirates. As Jacoby struggles to process the betrayal, he uncovers evidence suggesting that one of his classmates might be the League’s next target.
Determined to fight back, the Barracudas bravely infiltrate the League, an organisation bent on destroying the honourable Pirate Federation and dismantling the safety rules they view as restrictive. Their mission is fraught with danger as they attempt to stop the League from carrying out its destructive plans.
Meanwhile, Jasmine sets sail on a daring solo mission to reunite with her father, only to find herself navigating treacherous waters. Far from the Academy, Neo follows a trail of clues left by his mother, leading to a mysterious sword with extraordinary powers. Rooted in a believable magical system, the sword is not only a powerful artefact but also a link to Neo’s past, offering a deeper understanding of his background.
The idea of three sister swords, each with unique abilities and the potential to become even more powerful when united, adds a fascinating layer to the story and leaves readers eager for the next instalment.
The narrative is fast-paced and emotionally engaging, with each character driven by personal stakes and clear motivations. Neo, Jasmine and Jacoby each have distinct voices, and the shifting perspectives add richness to the plot. Their individual journeys are compelling and equally enjoyable to follow.
Pirate Academy: Sword Echoes explores themes of family, loyalty and friendship, all wrapped up in a high-seas adventure. It’s a perfect choice for readers who enjoy action-packed stories and swashbuckling pirates.
Today I am spotlighting a middle grade adventure, Wildlands by Brogen Murphy, which was published on 6th March 2025 by Puffin Books, a subsidary of Penguin Random House. The story was sparked by Brogen’s university studies in zoology.
A UTOPIAN FUTURE. A FORBIDDEN WILDERNESS. TWO SISTERS TRYING TO SURVIVE.
Twenty-five years into the future, no humans are allowed in the Wildlands – a vast area in Britain where wolves, lynx and bison roam free. The only exception is a high-speed train line between London and Glasgow that crosses right through the heart of the project. Thirteen-year-old Astrid and her little sister, Indie, are onboard when their train slows to a brief, unexpected stop… and they find themselves accidentally left behind.
Stranded in this place of astonishing natural wonders and terrible dangers, they have only a rucksack, a phone without signal – and each other. As every wrong turn takes them deeper into the Wildlands, do the sisters have the ingenuity and determination to survive? How far would YOU go to find your way home?
Perfect for fans of The Explorer and The Last Wild, this gripping and heartfelt survival story by debut author Brogen Murphy takes place in an imagined rewilded future, teeming with lost flora and fauna that we can only dream about encountering today.
About the Author
Exploring a utopian vision of the future where society has taken radical steps to address humanity’s relationship with the environment, the book touches on the themes of rewilding and sustainability, sisterhood and belonging. The thrilling plot draws in readers while also raising compelling questions about humanity’s relationship with nature. Brogen’s background in climate activism and green technology gives them an authentic perspective on the issues raised in the story.
After graduating with a degree in Zoology from the University of Cambridge, Brogen Murphy set about trying to figure out how best to save the world. After a (very) brief stint in climate activism, they spent fifteen years promoting clean technologies that help build a low-carbon future. They are currently on a nomadic adventure with their wife, searching for the perfect place to live.
Title: Paper Dragons: The Rise of the Sand Spirits
Written by: Siobhan McDermott
Illustrated by: Yuzhen Cai
Published by: Hodder Children’s Books
Paper Dragons: The Rise of the Sand Spirits is a vibrant and imaginative sequel that expands on the rich world introduced in The Fight for the Hidden Realm. Siobhan McDermott continues to build a universe steeped in Chinese mythology, filled with colour, complexity and magic. From the underwater city of Hok Woh to the crowded streets of Omophilli, every setting bursts with detail and originality.
The story follows Zhi Ging, a determined and compassionate young Silhouette, as she and her companions face twelve demanding trials in their quest to become Cyo B’Ahon, apprentices to the immortals. Each challenge tests a different discipline such as Concealment, Perception and Recall, with unexpected twists along the way. Zhi Ging must also navigate a hostile relationship with Iridill, a fellow student from her hometown who is driven to sabotage her progress. As yellow lines appear mysteriously on the walls, suspicion falls on Zhi Ging, threatening everything she has worked for.
The narrative builds on familiar elements we met inn the first book, including jellyfish that assist the immortals, animated paper birds and a mischievous phoenix named Malo. There are dark turns too, as Zhi Ging uncovers that many former Silhouettes have been turned to stone and children across the realm are vanishing under suspicious circumstances. The Matchmakers, once trusted figures, appear to be involved, especially when Zhi Ging discovers grains of sand hidden inside the buns they force upon others. This clue draws the elusive Sand Spirits into the plot and adds layers of mystery.
The novel shines in its creativity and magical world building. The Floating Markets and mystical creatures offer moments of wonder while Zhi Ging’s personal journey, including startling revelations about her past, keeps the emotional core strong. I loved the training exercise and when Zhi Ging had to recover the missing students and the expert way the tension builds to the major twist that sets up an exciting next instalment.
The Rise of the Sand Spirits is a compelling read. The blend of folklore and original fantasy makes for a thrilling and thoughtful adventure. Zhi Ging is a strong lead and her world is one readers will want to return to. Fans of the series should definitely read, or even like me reread, the first book before diving into this one but they will likely find themselves, again like me, eager for book three.
Highly recommended for readers who enjoy magical schools, mythology-inspired fantasy and determined heroines.
The Ordinary Life of Jacominus Gainsborough by Rébecca Dautremer is due for publication by Post Wave Children’s Books this week on the 22nd May 2025
This timeless picture book captures the quiet wonder of an ordinary yet extraordinary life. Through 12 beautifully illustrated scenes and portraits of our hero at different ages, follow Jacominus Gainsborough – a humble, fluffy white rabbit – through the changing seasons as life unfolds all around him.
From childhood through to old age, Jacominus is fortunate to be surrounded by family and friends. He may not be the biggest or strongest, but he grows, learns, faces moments of sadness and also finds great joy. This celebration of his life, as he becomes a father, and then a grandfather, tells the story of a soul who has loved and been loved, of the pride of having done one’s best and of the happiness of a life well lived.
Rébecca Dautremer brings a universal message of the beauty of being alive in this lyrical, stunningly illustrated story.
About the Author Illustrator
Rébecca Dautremer is a celebrated French illustrator and author. She graduated from the Arts Décoratifs School in Paris and went on to illustrate several bestselling picture books, including L’Amoureux which won the Prix Sorcières.
In 2016 she found a new publishing home with Editions Sarbacane where she was able to express her creativity and unique personal style through her own stories. She created the character of Jacominus Gainsborough in 2018, and her books have been translated in 20 languages and published worldwide.
I would like to thank Antonia Wilkinson for sending me the PR for this book. Thank you.
Tamsin Mori’s latest middle-grade fantasy adventure delivers everything young readers love: mystery, magic, friendship and a brave but relatable hero. This story is as meaningful as it is exciting. There are themes of honesty, courage, self-discovery and the importance of being true to yourself.
The book follows 11-year-old Callen, who moves into a crumbling country mansion called Gargoyle’s Rest after his grandmother’s death. The estate is steeped in secrets, with sprawling grounds, a lake, battlements and mysterious gargoyles that have slept for decades. When Zariel, a lioness shaped gargoyle with wings, suddenly awakens, Callen finds himself drawn into an ancient magical legacy involving guardian protectors, magical creatures and a powerful source of magic in the basement which is under threat.
Callen’s journey to become a Guardian is anything but straightforward. Zariel is sceptical of him, and Callen struggles with self-doubt, secrecy and the pressure to prove himself. His attempts to impress new friends with half-truths spiral into bigger problems, teaching him the hard way trust must be earned through honesty. The emotional growth he experiences, particularly in learning to be himself adds depth to the adventure.
The mansion itself becomes a character in its own right, full of hidden tunnels, old diaries, and forgotten history. However, I found it frustrating the sister’s diary disappears and never reappears even when Callen proves he is up to the task.
One highlight is the involvement of Callen’s parents, who play active roles in the plot rather than being sidelined. Their protective instincts and disbelief in Callen’s abilities feel authentic, echoing Zariel’s doubts and reinforcing Callen’s internal conflict. The way they step up and help to fight the evil felt instinctive.
The world-building is rich and immersive. Magic is cleverly integrated into the real world with clearly defined rules, which prevents it from becoming a convenient fix. Instead, the characters rely on teamwork, quick thinking and bravery to solve problems and face rising dangers. I particularly appreciated the nuanced view of magic in that it was neither good nor evil but shaped by the intentions of those who wield it:
“Magic is neither good, nor bad – it simply multiplies the dreams you feed it. Be careful what you wish for…”
The pacing is fast and engaging, helped by short, punchy chapters that keep readers gripped. Vivid descriptions bring the setting and characters to life, while the story’s twists are both clever and satisfying.
Overall, Gargoyles: Guardians of the Source is a captivating, action-packed read for ages 8+, with heart, humour and a meaningful message.
Get ready for a deliciously fun food face-off in My Rice is Best by Selina Brown and Maxwell A Oginni. This joyful new picture book celebrates culture, friendship, and the meals that make us feel at home. It was published by Puffin last week, on Thursday 8 May 2025.
Blurb
A laugh-out-loud, heartwarming picture book that brings the joy of food, friendship, and cultural pride to life, written by Selina Brown, winner of the 2025 London Book Fair Trailblazer Award, and CEO of the internationally renowned Black British Book Festival.
My Rice is Best explores the playful rivalry between two friends who both believe their rice dish is the ultimate favourite.
Shane is convinced that nothing beats a big, delicious bowl of rice and peas—it’s the best rice in the world! But when he brings his favourite meal to school, he discovers that his friend Yinka is just as passionate about her jollof rice. What follows is a hilarious and heartfelt showdown to settle the age-old question: which rice reigns supreme?
With vibrant illustrations from Maxwell A. Oginni’s which bring to life the humour and playfulness, the book offers an entertaining way-in to help children embrace new cuisines and celebrate cultural identity and diversity. With the rising demand for inclusive stories that celebrate different cultures, My Rice is Best is a timely and essential addition to any child’s bookshelf.
Review
When Shane brings his beloved rice and peas to school, he doesn’t expect a rice rivalry with his friend Yinka, who swears by her jollof rice.
What follows is a funny and heartwarming showdown that explores identity through the universal love of food.
Packed with humour and vibrant illustrations, My Rice is Best is the perfect picture book for sparking conversations about heritage and sharing stories around the table.
This book is a mesme-ricing celebration of what brings us together. (Saw the pun on amazonn and it made me laugh!)
About the Author
Selina Brown is an Author, Marketing Consultant and Event Producer. At 16 she became the Youth MP for Nottingham, her love for words gained her two Degrees and a Masters at 21 years old. After living and working in New York, Jamaica, Kenya and Gambia Selina founded Little Miss Creative, an award-winning Female Development Agency that empowers girls in schools across the UK.
During the pandemic she wrote the picture book series Nena that became popular in 2020. The same year Selina launched the internationally renowned Black British Book Festival, which aims to celebrate new and emerging Black British authors across all genres of literature.
About the Illustrator
Maxwell Afolabi Oginni is a Nigerian-born, London-based animator & illustrator. Classically trained in 2D character animation, he has worked in the mainstream industry for over 18 years as director, animator, illustrator & story artist for TV commercials, music videos, feature film & popular children’s entertainment productions such as, Sony Pictures Animation’s ‘Young Love’, Mr Bean: The Animated Series, JoJo & Gran Gran, Hey Duggee, School of Roars, plus various other titles.
Having developed his own distinct style, Maxwell has also established himself as a skilled & ambitious creative with a fresh & dynamic approach. His unique artworks have been acknowledged by various institutions & highly respected industry professionals throughout his career.
With the third book in Ravena Guron’s brilliantly original fantasy series released just this week (8th May), there’s no better time to go back to where it all began. Today, I’m diving into The Thief of Farrowfell, the first instalment in Jude Ripon’s thrilling adventures. This is a story packed with edible magic, daring heists, and a heroine you won’t forget.
The newly released sequel continues Jude’s journey, now living a more stable life with the Westons, until, of course, danger calls her back. With raw magic resurfacing, shady dealings in the Consortium, and a terrifying beast threatening Farrowfell, Jude, Moorley, and their unlikely allies must once again risk everything to protect their world.
But before all that, let’s look at how it started…
********
Blurb
Twelve-year-old Jude Ripon has never been taken seriously by her family of magic-stealing masterminds. To them, she’s just the youngest, only good for keeping watch while they carry out daring heists.
Desperate to prove her worth, Jude decides to steal valuable magic from the fanciest house in town . . .
But Jude’s stolen prize was protected by a curse which threatens to wreak havoc on the family business.
While attempting to untangle the mess she’s made (and wondering why anyone would want to curse an honest thief trying to earn a living), Jude discovers just how far her family will go to stay at the top of the criminal world.
Suddenly, her quest to become a true Ripon isn’t straightforward any more . . . see my review below:
********
Review
Title: The Thief of Farrowfell
Written by: Ravena Guron
Illustrated by: Alessia Trunfio
Published by: Faber & Faber
This fast-paced and imaginative fantasy introduces a standout concept of ‘edible magic’ in a richly built world filled with tension, heart, and originality. Jude, the youngest in a notorious family of thieves, is eager to prove herself, but when she steals a powerful, cursed spell, things spiral out of control. What follows is a gripping story of resilience, loyalty, and the cost of power.
Though the beginning took time to hook me, the unique magic system and dynamic plot soon drew me in. Jude is a compelling protagonist who is resourceful, sharp, and brave, especially as she begins to challenge the toxic values she was raised with. Her relationship with her seemingly perfect sister Moorley evolves meaningfully, and the backdrop of familial neglect and emotional manipulation adds surprising depth to the narrative. While heavier than the cover or synopsis suggests, these themes are handled thoughtfully and with age-appropriate sensitivity.
The Hall of Knowledge is a particular highlight which introduces an evolving, sentient library that feels both magical and plausible. The contrast between raw and tamed magic and their effects, gives the story a strong thematic spine. Twists and turns are well-timed, the pacing is sharp, and the ending strikes the right balance between closure and anticipation.
********
As you can see, The Thief of Farrowfell is a gripping and imaginative start to what’s shaping up to be an outstanding fantasy series. With its unique magic system, complex family dynamics, and high-stakes adventure, it’s no surprise that Jude Ripon’s world has captured so many readers. This series will especially resonate with young readers looking for something inventive and substantial.
If you’ve already read the first book or if this review has convinced you to start, now is the perfect time to continue the journey as Book 3 is out now. Find out what happens next as Jude and Moorley take justice into their own hands and face a new threat to Farrowfell.
Jude Ripon returns in her most dangerous mission yet.
Out now from Ravena Guron.
********
Blurb for Book Three The Battle of Farrowfell
Jude Ripon must fight to defend Farrowfell in its darkest hour. The thrilling finale to the epic fantasy series from bestselling and award-winning author, Ravena Guron.
Will raw magic be their doom . . . or their saviour?
Jude is living happily with Moorley, Uncle Runie and Spry. But then the Dark Rivers start failing and raw magic is everywhere. The Consortium jumps into action and assures everyone that the situation is under control, but the people they are arresting are never seen again. And anyway, Jude knows better than to trust those in power.
Jude and Moorley must find a way to reverse the effects of the raw magic. All their usual leads are sending them to dead ends, until Jude meets a strange boy called Darcius who seems to know far more than he should . . .
Can they resist the temptation of raw magic and save Farrowfell once and for all?
********
To read more reviews for The Theif of Fellowfell check out:
A born and bred Londoner, Ravena Guron writes MG and YA, usually featuring antiheroines or snarky narrators. She is a lawyer with a degree in biochemistry, and hopes to use the knowledge gained from her experiences to plot her books, whether that’s wild MG fantasy adventures, or twisty YA murder-mysteries.
Ravena Guron is a British Indian biochemist turned lawyer turned MG author, a superb new voice who brings her own captivating brand of energy, wild adventure and joy to the genre. The Thief of Farrowfell was the first in the series following Jude Ripon, and was shortlisted for Penguin’s WriteNow scheme, as well as being highly commended in the FAB Prize. Ravena also writes YA, including the acclaimed This Book Kills, which has won regional awards and is shortlisted for the British Book Awards.
Ravena is a Londoner through and through: born, raised and educated in London, she lives there still.
About the Illustrator
Alessia Trunfio was born in southern Italy in but grew up in Rome, where she still lives. Alessia has worked as background artist for some of the most important animation studios in Italy. Fundamentally passionate about cinema, anime, literature, indie music, and fried food, Alessia is an eclectic, energetic, and inexhaustible illustrator.
To follow the rest of the tour please take a look at the scheule below:
I would like to thank The Write Reads for inviting me to take part in this ultimate tour. Thank you.
The fourth and final instalment in Jenny Moore’s Emba Oak series delivers exactly what the title promises, an epic ending, brimming with adventure, peril, humour, and heart.
As Emba’s twelfth birthday approaches, the stakes have never been higher. The malevolent Necromalcom inches closer to achieving immortality, and both the human and dragon realms teeter on the brink of doom. With time running out, Emba embarks on her most dangerous mission yet, one that forces her to confront her evil father, make impossible choices, and wrestle with her evolving identity.
Jenny Moore reunites us with all our favourite characters, each of whom is given a moment to shine in this fast-paced, emotionally rich finale. From ghost armies to dragon sacrifices, betrayal to heartwarming reunions, the story manages to be thrilling and deeply moving all at once. Emba’s inner struggles are explored with nuance, especially as she navigates themes of identity, loss, and love.
The narrative remains true to the tone of previous adventures, complete with the signature alliterated chapter headings that fans have come to adore. And while the tone is often light and humorous, Jenny doesn’t shy away from darker, more bittersweet elements, making this a truly layered conclusion.
What makes this finale so satisfying is how seamlessly it ties together the threads of the previous books. Long-standing mysteries, like the origin of the Tome of Terrible Tomorrows and the meaning of the Final Prophecy are finally resolved. Relationships between characters have matured and changed, and while the series comes to a natural close, Jenny leaves just enough intrigue to spark the imagination about what might lie beyond the final page.
Perfect for young adventurers aged 9 and up, Emba Oak and the Epic Ending is a triumphant conclusion to a brilliantly immersive series. I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for what Jenny Moore writes next.
********
To read my reviews of the other books in the Emba Oak series take a look at:
You can buy copies of all of Jenny Moore’s books from your local bookshops, which are always top of the list – if they don’t have the EmbaOak books in stock they’ll be able to order them in for you. Or you can purchase direct from the publisher Maverick Publishing, otherwise Jenny recommends Hive books or any of the usual online retailers, such as uk.bookshop.org, an organisation with a mission to financially support local, independent bookshops
My spotlight today is for Ava and the Acornwritten by Lu Fraser and illustrated by Paddy Donnelly. This tender, stay-with-you-forever picture book about one little girl’s relationship with her grandad, and the hope that lies in the changing of the seasons and the circle of life is the perfect introduction to life, love and loss for little ones. It was published on 12th September 2024 by Hachette Children’s Books
Blurb
All the things that you’ve lost – that you’ve loved – are not gone, When they’re held in your heart, a small part still lives on…
Together Grandad and Ava adventure along the twisting path and over the hill where, beneath the canopy of their friend the old Oak tree, they make wonderful memories to treasure and share – from summer picnics with jam-sticky fingers to carefree days kicking through russet leaves in autumn’s soft glow. But as the seasons change, so too does the old Oak tree and Grandad’s health…
Ava and the Acorn is a tender, unforgettable story about one little girl’s relationship with her grandad, and the hope that lies in the changing of the seasons and the circle of life.
A perfect introduction to life, love and growth for little ones, this beautifully lyrical rhyming story coupled with Paddy Donnelly’s perfect illustrations also explores the positive portrayal of intergenerational relationships and shared experiences.
About the Author
Lu Fraser is one of the most exciting new picture book voices. Her debut picture book, The Littlest Yak (illustrated by Kate Hindley) won the Oscars Book Prize, The Sainsbury’s Best Picture Book Award and The Sainsbury’s Children’s Book of the Year Award, whilst her second book, The Viking Who Liked Icing (illustrated by Mark McKinley) was shortlisted for the Waterstones Children’s Book Award.
Now she gets to write her own books in a shed in her garden. Lu lives in the south of England, in the middle of nowhere, with her husband and daughter and their pets.
About the Illustrator
Paddy Donnelly is an Irish illustrator now living in Belgium. He has over 15 years’ experience as an illustrator and designer, and especially loves working with a textured, painterly approach. His books include Dodos Are Not Extinct, Hom, Here Be Dragons and The Vanishing Lake.
His work has achieved international acclaim as he was nominated for the Kate Greenaway Medal 2022 and shortlisted for The World Illustration Awards in 2018. Paddy’s first book as both author and illustrator, The Vanishing Lake, was awarded the gold medal in the picture book category of the IPPY Awards.
I would like to thank Antonia Wilkinson for sending me the PR information. Thank you.
Fourth in a delightful illustrated series about puffins and teamwork for readers aged 5+.
Muffin, Tiny and the rest of the trainees are busy learning the skills they need to become rescue puffins. Life is always busy on the island of Egg, and the friends are delighted to be taking part in a special day of celebrations called Puffin Power, where they can practise all the things they’ve learned.
But when a chick goes missing the young rescuers must put their training into practice, and before long they’re deep in the cave network searching for the lost chick. It’s dark and spooky – what if the legend of the ghost puffin that haunts these caves is true? Muffin, Tiny and the others need to gather their courage and work as a team to rescue the chick and lead everyone to safety!
This highly illustrated series featuring a cast of adorable puffin characters is perfect for families to share, or for newly confident readers to enjoy reading to themselves.
Review
This delightful story, beautifully illustrated in black and white, features an irresistibly charming cast of puffins that young readers will want to return to time and time again. Ella Okstad’s expressive illustrations perfectly complement the narrative, supporting children who are transitioning from picture books to early chapter books.
I like the way that Cath Howe has alternated the main character in each of the Call the Puffins books. For the fourth adventure set on the Island of Egg, we are in Tiny’s point of view and his fear of the dark caves they have never explored. Flotsam the chick, who hatched from the rescued egg in Book One, bonds with Tiny but when Tiny is distracted during rescue practice Flotsam wanders off. Our heroes believe the only place Flotsam could have disappeared is into the cave. Tiny and Muffin quickly organize a rescue mission, leading to another suspenseful and heartwarming adventure.
One of the most impressive aspects of this book, and the series as a whole, is its use of foreshadowing. Cath Howe masterfully plants narrative clues, such as Old Kintyre’s bedtime story about the wandering puffin, which later echoes through the plot when Flotsam disappears. Similarly, the puffins’ earlier practice balancing on slippery logs cleverly sets the stage for a key rescue scene later in the story.
The book gently explores themes of belonging and rising to challenges, all within a framework of teamwork, empathy, and resilience. Readers will find messages about loyalty and cooperation woven subtly throughout.
Perfectly pitched for its audience, the story offers just the right mix of peril, suspense, and heartwarming moments to keep young readers engaged. It’s a joy to revisit these familiar characters in new situations, and the series continues to encourage developing reading and comprehension skills through its rich storytelling and thoughtful design.
I have also previously interviewed Cath Howe about her teacher resource, Let’s Perform for Writers’ Forum. You can find out more about this interview here: An interview with… Cath Howe.
You can buy copies of all the Call the Puffins! books by Cath Howe and Ella Okstad from your local bookshop, or online at uk.bookshop.org.
Much To Do About Writing 