Book 1 - The Boy at the Back of the Class by Onjali Q. Rauf

This is an inspiring tale that will help children think about what it is to be a good person whatever their circumstances, and challenge prejudice and push for fairness, whenever possible.  It highlights the power of friendship and kindness in a world that doesn't always make sense and reminds us that everyone needs a place to call home.  

This is the story about how one ordinary nine-year-old child and three classmates are full of empathy for Ahmet, a boy who comes to their school as a refugee from Syria (the boy at the back of the class).  The four friends make a huge impact on Ahmet's life, their community, and the wider world.  

Book 2 - Can you feel the noise? By Steward Foster

This is a moving, emotional and thought-provoking story of a young girl whose music-loving life is turned upside down. The main character, Sophie, shows inner strength and perseverance in the face of a life-changing event. 

Book 3 - Crater Lake by Jennifer Killick

Crater Lake is a fast-paced, high action read full of suspense, scares, twists and turns.  When Lance's class arrives at a brand new Crater Lake activity centre for their school trip, it's immediately clear something is not quite right.  Aside from the weird lace of staff and a very odd manager, there's also the panicked man covered in blood shouting at them all to run!  I thoroughly enjoyed reading the spooky page-turner.  Read it - if you dare!

Book 4 - Born to Run by Michael Morpurgo

This is a story that will really pull on the heartstrings and one that will stick in your mind long after you’ve finished it.  But rest assured, anyone who loves animals will enjoy this story.  Joy and heartbreak combine in this bittersweet tale of a champion greyhound’s journey through life and from owner to owner. 

Book 5 - Orphans of the Tide by Struan Murry

Dark, thrilling and jaw-dropping, Orphans of the Tide is a must-read for anyone who fancies being whisked away on a journey as stormy as the seas surrounding the City. 

The main character, Ellie, is a magnificent heroine, too; while she’s full of spark and fighting spirit, she’s also struggling to cope with the death of her brother.  As we discover more and more about her, things get even more interesting…

Book 6 - The Outlaw Varjak Paw

This is the sequel to the class story, Varjak Paw, which we enjoyed in Term 1.  Having saved the city cats from a fate worse than death, Varjak Paw finds himself the elected and popular leader of a new gang.  Then the city erupts in an all-out gang war, as the evil Sally Bones attempts to control the lives of all cats.  Varjak and the others must fight their way to freedom or die trying.  This is another thrilling adventure, for all Varjak fans, both young and old.

Book 7 - Race to the Frozen North:  The Matthew Henson Story

This is a thrilling fictionalised account of the life of Matthew Henson, the first African-American man to travel to the North Pole.  Based on the story of real-life, 19th-century explorer, Matthew Henson.  This book sheds important light on the way prejudice has 'white-washed' the way we learn about the past.  

Book 8 - Dragon Mountain by Katie and Kevin Ksang

Dragon Mountain is the first in a series of books.   It is full of powerful messages about friendship and loyalty - alongside a welcome theme of recognising everyone's strengths.  With jaw-dropping twists, nail-biting clashes, astonishing creatures and a beautifully realised world, there's so much fun to be had in the Dragon Realm.