Read the latest book reviews of Minipreneur’s favourite children’s books this summer from Andersen Press, Bloomsbury Education, Bonnier Books, Farshore and Floris Books. Thoughtfully curated to both entertain and educate, this selection of books offer parents a reassuring blend of enrichment and enjoyment for the growing minds of middle grade readers.
Will Shakespeare Mysteries: The Pearly Pants
From acclaimed novelist Kaz Penney, co-author of the bestselling House of Shadows and Throne of Swans duologies, and brought vividly to life by the wonderfully expressive illustrations of Sammy Elgie, Will Shakespeare Mysteries: The Pearly Pants is a riotously funny historical mystery that cleverly blends fact with fiction. Perfect for readers aged 7+, this second adventure in the series follows a young Will Shakespeare and his loyal friend Tybalt as an ill-fated school archery trip to Scotland descends into glorious chaos. When a terrible crime takes place at the Macdeaths’ castle, the pair must investigate a baffling mystery involving three witches, a missing aristocrat and the theft of a very unusual pair of trousers. Packed with playful humour, energetic illustrations and clever historical references, the story encourages curiosity while celebrating friendship, courage and problem-solving. Parents will appreciate the imaginative introduction to Shakespeare’s world, and children will relish the hilarious twists, eccentric characters and wonderfully chaotic adventure. £7.99 published by Andersen Press
The Week Junior: Awesome World Puzzles
From the expert editorial team behind bestselling children’s magazine The Week Junior comes The Week Junior: Awesome World Puzzles, an engaging activity book designed to challenge young minds while encouraging curiosity about the world. Perfect for young readers aged 8+, this vibrant collection combines memory games, word puzzles, number challenges, crosswords, sudoku, word searches and spot-the-difference activities with fascinating facts about our planet. Beautifully presented with colourful photography and a clear, accessible layout, it offers an ideal balance between entertainment and enrichment, helping children develop problem-solving skills, concentration and general knowledge. Whether enjoyed independently during quiet moments or shared as a family activity, the puzzles provide a rewarding way to learn beyond the classroom. Parents will value its ability to inspire independent thinking and purposeful play, and children will embrace the satisfaction of solving challenges while discovering remarkable facts about the world around them. £6.99 published by Bloomsbury Education
Terrible True Tales: Pirates
From bestselling Horrible Histories author Terry Deary, whose celebrated series has sold more than 30 million copies worldwide, comes a thrilling collection of pirate adventures that combines historical fact with his trademark humour and storytelling flair. Perfect for young readers aged 7+, Terrible True Tales: Pirates brings the golden age of piracy vividly to life through four action-packed tales featuring legendary figures, daring escapes and unforgettable characters. From Captain William Fly’s notorious exploits to Grace O’Malley’s fearless reign on the seas, each story reveals the fascinating reality behind pirate legends while exploring courage, survival and adventure. Engaging illustrations by Helen Flook, alongside helpful notes that extend historical learning, make this an excellent choice for both enthusiastic history fans and reluctant readers. Parents will appreciate its ability to transform the past into an exciting learning experience, and children will relish the swashbuckling stories, dramatic twists and fascinating discoveries. £8.99 published by Bloomsbury Education
Terrible True Tales: Shakespeare
From award-winning children’s author Terry Deary, creator of the much-loved Horrible Histories series, comes a brilliantly entertaining introduction to Shakespeare’s world, blending historical insight with lively storytelling and laugh-out-loud humour. Perfect for young readers aged 7+, Terrible True Tales: Shakespeare explores four iconic plays through the eyes of children who might have lived during the Elizabethan era, offering a fresh perspective on the playwright’s extraordinary imagination and the theatrical world around him. From the magical confusion of A Midsummer Night’s Dream to the tragedy of Romeo and Juliet, Deary transforms classic literature into accessible, engaging adventures filled with drama, intrigue and memorable moments. Packed with historical details, energetic illustrations by Tambe and additional notes to encourage further exploration, this collection provides an ideal introduction to Shakespeare for young readers. Parents will appreciate its ability to make literary heritage feel accessible and exciting, and children will discover the joy, humour and human stories behind some of the world’s greatest plays. £8.99 published by Bloomsbury Education
Weather, Camera, Action!
Written by Channel 4 News weather presenter and qualified meteorologist Liam Dutton and illustrated by award-winning artist Giordano Poloni, Weather, Camera, Action! is an inspiring introduction to the extraordinary forces that shape our planet. Perfect for young readers aged 7+, this beautifully presented non-fiction title takes children on a fascinating journey through hurricanes, monsoons, volcanic lightning, jet streams and countless other spectacular weather phenomena. Dutton’s talent for explaining complex scientific ideas in an engaging and accessible way shines throughout, encouraging curiosity about both the natural world and the growing importance of understanding climate change. Poloni’s bold, vibrant illustrations complement the lively narrative, transforming intricate meteorological concepts into memorable visual experiences. Blending scientific accuracy with genuine excitement and a spirit of exploration, this is an outstanding resource for inquisitive minds with an interest in science and geography. Parents will appreciate its educational depth and contemporary relevance, and children will be captivated by the dramatic power and beauty of Earth’s ever-changing skies. £10.99 published by Templar Books, an imprint of Bonnier Books.
Where’s Moana? A Disney Moana Search and Find Activity Book
Where’s Moana? is a vibrant search-and-find activity book from Disney that invites young readers to immerse themselves in the colourful world of Motunui alongside some of Disney’s most beloved characters. Perfect for children aged 7-9, every richly illustrated spread is packed with surprises as Moana, Pua and the mischievous Heihei hide within bustling island scenes and memorable locations from both Moana and Moana 2. Beyond the simple pleasure of spotting favourite characters, the book encourages concentration, visual perception and attention to detail, making it an engaging activity for independent play or shared family time. The beautifully detailed artwork rewards repeated visits, with fresh discoveries waiting on every page. Timed to coincide with renewed excitement surrounding the forthcoming live-action film, this entertaining activity book offers hours of imaginative fun. Parents will value its ability to encourage focus and observation, and children will delight in every colourful challenge and hidden discovery. £7.99 published by Studio Press, an imprint of Bonnier Books.
Where Are Woody and Buzz? A Disney Pixar Toy Story Search and Find Activity Book
Where Are Woody and Buzz? is a delightful celebration of one of Disney’s most treasured franchises, inviting young readers to revisit favourite characters through a series of richly detailed visual puzzles. Perfect for children aged 7-9, the book features 14 bustling scenes inspired by all five Toy Story films, including iconic locations such as Andy’s Room, Pizza Planet and Bonnie’s Room. As children search for Woody, Buzz, Jessie, Bo Peep, Rex and their friends, they naturally develop concentration, visual discrimination and problem-solving skills while enjoying familiar scenes in a fresh and interactive format. Released alongside the excitement surrounding Toy Story 5, this engaging activity book offers hours of rewarding entertainment for devoted fans. Parents will appreciate the screen-free challenge and developmental benefits, and children will relish hunting for every hidden character and surprise. £7.99 published by Studio Press, an imprint of Bonnier Books.
Spider-Man Travel Puzzles
Spider-Man Travel Puzzles is an entertaining collection of 100 brain-teasing activities that combines the excitement of the Marvel universe with rewarding mental challenges. Perfect for children aged 7-9, this compact activity book features an impressive variety of word games, number puzzles, logic challenges, memory tests and picture activities, all cleverly themed around travel and holidays. Alongside Peter Parker, Miles Morales, Gwen Stacy and a host of familiar Spider-Man characters, young readers are encouraged to think creatively, strengthen problem-solving skills and build concentration whether travelling by car, train or plane, or simply enjoying time at home. The portable format makes it an excellent companion for family holidays, long journeys and school breaks, delivering educational value without sacrificing fun. Parents will welcome the opportunity for purposeful, screen-free entertainment, and children will enjoy hours of superhero-inspired puzzles and satisfying challenges. £6.99 published by Studio Press, an imprint of Bonnier Books.
Quentin Blake’s Amazing Animal Stories
Written by acclaimed children’s author John Yeoman and illustrated by Sir Quentin Blake, former Children’s Laureate, Hans Christian Andersen Award winner and one of the world’s most celebrated illustrators, Quentin Blake’s Amazing Animal Stories is a timeless collection of humorous tales that continues one of the most treasured creative partnerships in children’s publishing. Perfect for readers aged 6-9, the book whisks children across jungles, deserts and mountains where they encounter talking animals, magical happenings and delightfully unexpected twists. From ingenious mice and mischievous birds to clever jackals and unforgettable hippopotamuses, every story is infused with Yeoman’s playful wit and lyrical storytelling. Blake’s instantly recognisable illustrations burst with warmth, movement and character, adding an irresistible sense of joy to every page. Ideal for reading aloud or encouraging growing confidence in independent readers, this charming collection has enduring appeal. Parents will treasure its wit, imagination and literary heritage, and children will delight in its unforgettable animal adventures and wonderfully quirky humour. £14.99 published by Farshore.
Shadow Thieves: Island of Skulls
Written by critically acclaimed author Peter Burns, whose debut novel Shadow Thieves was nominated for the Carnegie Medal 2026, Shadow Thieves: Island of Skulls delivers a thrilling second instalment in this fast-paced adventure series. Perfect for readers aged 10-13, Tom and his fellow students from Beaufort’s School for Deceptive Arts are sent to a mysterious Mediterranean island once owned by the notorious Duke of Nimes, where rumours of hidden treasure and a devastating secret weapon quickly transform a school expedition into a dangerous race for survival. As double agents emerge from the shadows and trust becomes increasingly fragile, Tom must rely on his instincts, courage and quick thinking to protect his friends. Blending the excitement of a boarding-school adventure with espionage, puzzles and high-stakes action, Burns creates an irresistible page-turner filled with twists and suspense. Parents will appreciate its intelligent storytelling and themes of loyalty and resilience, and children will be gripped by its relentless adventure, ingenious mysteries and unforgettable characters. £7.99 published by Farshore.
The Snow Queen
Written by award-winning children’s author Bette Westera and illustrated by Aida De Jong, The Snow Queen is a beautifully crafted retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s timeless fairy tale, reimagined for a new generation of readers. Told through short, engaging chapters that are ideal for shared bedtime reading, the story follows the unbreakable friendship between Arne and Janna after the mysterious Snow Queen steals Arne away to her frozen palace. Refusing to abandon her friend, Janna embarks on a courageous journey filled with unforgettable encounters, from talking crows and kindly royalty to robbers, reindeer and wise strangers who help guide her onwards. Westera’s lyrical storytelling preserves the enchantment of the original while emphasising themes of loyalty, resilience, compassion and the transformative power of friendship. De Jong’s luminous illustrations infuse every page with warmth, wonder and winter magic, creating a truly immersive reading experience. Parents will treasure its timeless values and exquisite storytelling, and children will be enchanted by its magical adventure and unforgettable characters. £14.99 published by Floris Books.
