Explore these Minipreneur book reviews of the latest children’s and YA titles from UCLan Publishing, featuring Pirate Academy: Sword Echoes, Gargoyles: The Watcher, Exit Stage Death and Birdy Arbuthnot’s Year of ‘Yes’ – bold, imaginative reads for older readers aged 9 to 14+. As an independent publisher rooted in the North, UCLan are fiercely committed to shaping a diverse, innovative, and creative literary landscape. With an unwavering belief in the transformative power of storytelling, UCLan champions books that inspire empathy, ignite imagination, and cultivate a lifelong love of reading for pleasure.
Pirate Academy: Sword Echoes
Written by acclaimed children’s author Justin Somper and vividly illustrated by the talented Teo Skaffa, this swashbuckling third instalment in the Pirate Academy series is packed with peril, intrigue and high-seas adventure. When a trusted teacher is unmasked as an agent of the League of True Pirates, Jacoby, Jasmine and Neo are flung into separate yet interwoven missions that test their loyalty, courage and destiny. From secret betrayals to magical relics, each chapter brims with fast-paced action and emotional depth. Neo’s quest for his mother’s legacy and the sword with mysterious powers adds a mythical edge to the narrative. Perfect for readers aged 9+ who love pirates, loyalty and plotting villains. Parents will admire the themes of bravery and friendship, and children will dive headfirst into this thrilling maritime world. £7.99 published by UCLan Publishing.
Gargoyles: The Watcher
Penned by the award-winning Tamsin Mori, this gripping middle-grade fantasy follows young Guardian Callen as he faces the daunting arrival of a Watcher and an escalating magical threat. Set in the richly imagined world of Gargoyles Rest, this novel blends myth, action and emotional nuance with wonderful clarity. As Callen races to find a missing kelpie and outwit a creeping blight, he must rely on his bravery and the strength of unlikely friendships. Mori skilfully balances high-stakes adventure with heartfelt moments, making it a rewarding read for fans of Abi Elphinstone and Katherine Rundell. Perfect for readers aged 9+, it’s a page-turner with genuine emotional punch. Parents will be drawn to the empowering story arc, and children will lose themselves in its magical landscapes. £8.99 published by UCLan Publishing.
Exit Stage Death
Written by debut novelist and theatre producer Ava Eldred, this sharp, stylish YA murder mystery blends the razzle-dazzle of musical theatre with a spine-tingling whodunnit. Camp Chance should be a dream for aspiring actor Livi Campbell, but when a fellow camper dies under suspicious circumstances, her summer becomes a race to solve the mystery before the final curtain falls. With a cast of colourful characters – from the enigmatic Juliet to heartbreaker Sam – and a setting that crackles with backstage drama, this is a thrilling ride for fans of One of Us Is Lying and Glee. Perfect for readers aged 13+, it explores ambition, friendship and secrets under the spotlight. Parents will appreciate the smart, layered storytelling, and teens will be utterly hooked by the drama on and off stage. £8.99 published by UCLan Publishing.
Birdy Arbuthnot’s Year of ‘Yes’
Crafted by the Carnegie-nominated, bestselling Joanna Nadin, this witty, nostalgic YA novel captures the spirit of 1960s Soho through the rebellious lens of Birdy Arbuthnot. Tired of her quiet Surbiton life, Birdy throws herself into a year of saying ‘yes’, leading to scandal, self-discovery and the fabulous world of the Mannering family. With her signature humour and impeccable sense of timing, Nadin weaves a coming-of-age story that’s as touching as it is entertaining. Brimming with charm, period detail and fierce female energy, this companion to A Calamity of Mannerings stands strong on its own. Ideal for readers aged 14+, especially those who adore witty heroines and vintage flair. Parents will chuckle at the era’s quirks, and teens will cheer Birdy on every dazzling step of the way. £9.99 published by UCLan Publishing.
