Read the latest book reviews of Minipreneur’s favourite children’s books published by the imprints of Farshore this season. As part of HarperCollins, Farshore is dedicated to making every child a confident and enthusiastic reader. With a diverse and inclusive range of books, they inspire a love of reading from the earliest years through to the teenage years. From imaginative picture books to gripping fiction, Farshore’s stories transport young readers to incredible worlds, fostering creativity, curiosity, and a lifelong passion for books.
Shadow Thieves
Written by acclaimed sports writer turned debut novelist Peter Burns, Shadow Thieves is a thrilling boarding-school adventure with echoes of Harry Potter and Skandar. Set in an alternate London, we follow 13-year-old Tom Morgan, a streetwise boy whose friends are seized and sent to a grim workhouse. Desperate to save them, Tom crosses paths with the mysterious Corsair, who whisks him away to a boarding school for thieves in the snowy Alps. What follows is a dazzling tale of deception, daring heists, and ancient secrets, with a cast of unforgettable characters and a world of peril lurking in every corner. We think this is a middle-grade series destined for global appeal. Parents will appreciate the rich literary content while children will devour the fast-paced adventure and intrigue. £7.99 published by Farshore.
How To Save Your Granny From a Runaway Train
Written by bestselling and award-winning author Swapna Haddow and illustrated by the brilliantly funny Jess Bradley, this hilarious science-packed adventure is a treat for curious young minds. Granny is in peril, but only a clever mix of physics and problem-solving can save the day. With bonkers dilemmas – from tricking sharks and lifting jumbo jets to stopping runaway trains – children are challenged to put scientific principles into action through easy-to-follow experiments. The graphic novel style, laugh-out-loud humour, and clever STEM integration make this a must-read for fans of Dog Man and Bunny Vs Monkey. Haddow’s infectious wit shines through, complemented by Bradley’s vibrant illustrations and comic strip energy. Parents will relish how seamlessly science is smuggled into fun, and children will delight in saving Granny from one outrageous scenario after another. £10.99 published by Red Shed.
Elements of the Day
Written by talented debut science communicator Samantha Lewis and illustrated by gifted artist Hao Hao, this stunning hardback introduces children to the extraordinary role of elements in our daily lives. From magnetic breakfast cereal to the alchemy of gold and even the hidden science in sand, the book uncovers how elements shape everything we see, touch, and taste. The narrative takes readers from dawn until bedtime, weaving scientific fact with fascinating stories and striking visuals. Hao Hao’s vibrant illustrations bring abstract ideas to life, making chemistry engaging and accessible. With consultancy from Professor Andrea Sella, the science is both accurate and inspiring. Perfect for fans of Horrible Histories or Adam Kay’s children’s books, it transforms everyday objects into magical moments of discovery. Parents will value the educational depth, while children will marvel at the wow-factor of hidden science. £12.99 published by Red Shed.
Beano – Betty and the Yeti: Friends at First Fart
Created by Beano and author-illustrator Hugh Raine, this riotous new graphic novel brings fresh life to a British comic institution. Betty is a plucky heroine with a secret: she shares her bedroom with a Yeti. As Yeti learns to act human, chaos ensues – from wrecked houses to empty wallets – with plenty of fart-fuelled laughs along the way. With Beano’s trademark humour, slapstick energy, and activities woven throughout, this first instalment in the series is perfect for fans of Bunny Vs Monkey. Hugh Raine’s bold, colourful illustrations leap off the page, making this a vibrant introduction to graphic storytelling. Rooted in Beano’s DNA of fun, resilience, and creativity, it encourages confidence through laughter. Parents will appreciate its iconic heritage, while children will giggle at every messy, smelly mishap. £9.99 published by Farshore.
