Tower Hamlets Schools Library Services

Author: slsadmin

  • Islamic Golden Age online resource

    Islamic Golden Age online resource

    Created as part of the Our Global History series in partnersip with the Aldgate and Allhallows foundation.

    We’ve created an online resource to accompany the artefacts boxes available to loan. Available as a padlet.

    The resource box covers the founding of Islam, trade and the silk road, clothing, art, calligraphy, shadow puppet theatre, science, medicine, the expansion of the empire and warfare.

    The Islamic Golden Age artefacts box can be ordered via our request form, subject to availablity.

  • The Shang Dynasty online resource

    The Shang Dynasty online resource

    Created as part of the Our Global History series in partnersip with the Aldgate and Allhallows foundation.

    We’ve created an online resource to accompany the artefacts boxes available to loan. Available as a padlet.

    The Shang Dynasty was a Bronze age civilization, and the earliest Chinese civilization that we have archaeological evidence for. The resource box covers their religion, bronze-working, clothes and silk-working, money, jade-working, warfare, music, science, farming and games.

    The Shang Dynasty artefacts box can be ordered via our request form, subject to availablity.

  • Tower Hamlets Book Award 2024

    Tower Hamlets Book Award 2024

    Well done Matt Goodfellow!

    We’re please to announct that Matt Goodfellow has won the 2024 Tower Hamlets Book Award with The Final Year

    The book proved itself hugely popular, although Sana Rasoul’s The Twig Man came a close second (hey publishers, kids want more spooky books!).

    The finale was held at the Genesis Cinema with over 300 eager readers present to have books signed by our wonderful guests – Matt, Simon, Nathanael and Nazneen. The authors also judged the school performances and presentations – the variety of ideas on show this year was incredible, from poets to dramatised reviews to music, dance, video and drama! Blue Gate Fields Junior were the proud winners again this year – bringing props and drumming to the stage.

    A huge thank you to all of the schools for all of the work put into their performances – you really made the event special.

    About the Book Award

    The annual Tower Hamlets Book Award is just one of the exciting events made possible through subscriptions to the Tower Hamlets Schools Library Services.

    The Book Award is for pupils aged 10 to 13 (Years 5 to 8). The aim is to encourage children to read, to bring children together to enable debate and discussion about books and to encourage children to share the pleasure of reading.

    You can shadow the Book Award in small or not-so-small groups. In August we’ll publish a booklet with all the information you need to get your book group up and running. In September you’ll be sent a set of the shortlisted books. The book award guide will be available online and we’ll also send a printed copy.

    The shortlist

    The Books!

    Canary Wharf Group have kindly supported the 2024 award by funding a free set of the shortlist for all subscribing schools. These will be with you in September!

    Extra sets of the shortlist are now SOLD OUT

    City of Stolen Magic. Pathak, Nazneen Ahmed

    In 1855 India, under British rule, people born with magic are disappearing. When Chompa’s mother, Ammi, is kidnapped, Chompa enlists the help of Ammi’s friend Mohsin to find her. Their search takes them from rural India to London’s East End, where they uncover a plot by businessman Sir Clive Devaynes to exploit magic for power and wealth.

    The Twig Man. Rasoul, Sana

    A year has passed since Ari’s older sister, Lana, vanished. But Ari knows the truth: she was taken by the Twig Man, a terrifying creature lurking in the woods for a century. With no one believing him, Ari takes it upon himself to rescue Lana before it’s too late. However, time is running out as Ari finds himself next on the Twig Man’s sinister list.

    Safiyyah’s War Khan, Hiba Noor

    As war approaches Europe, Safiyyah’s life in Paris at the Grand Mosque remains peaceful. However, as the conflict encroaches, the city undergoes drastic changes: refugees arrive, wealthy Parisians leave, and German soldiers impose restrictions. Safiyyah observes the worsening conditions and discovers signs of rebellion within her community. Despite the risks, she resolves to take action.

    The Final Year. Goodfellow, Matt ; Todd-Stanton, Joe

    Ten-year-old Nate lives with his mum and younger brothers, Jax and Dylan. Nate’s best friend PS is moved to a different class, leaving Nate upset. Nate’s nemesis, Turner, becomes friends with PS, adding to Nate’s frustration. However, Nate finds solace in writing, encouraged by his teacher Mr. Joshua. When Dylan falls ill and is hospitalized, Nate’s world is shaken, and he must navigate his emotions and fears.

    The Song Walker. Bethell, Zillah

    In the heart of the desert, a young girl awakens with no memory of her identity, clad in a singular shoe and a mysterious black dress, clutching a heavy case. She encounters Tarni, who is embarking on her own enigmatic journey. As they traverse the expansive Australian Outback, seeking answers, they must confront not only the mysteries of their pasts but also the secrets they carry within themselves.

    Steady for this. Lessore, Nathanael

    Shaun (aka MC Growls) is ready to drop his best bars and smash the competition at Raptology. That way, he’s convinced Tanisha, his crush, will finally give him a chance. But when a livestream practice goes epically wrong, Growls’s dirty laundry is literally exposed. He’s finally achieved his dreams of going viral – not in the good way.

    Finn Jones was here. Green, Simon James

    Eric’s best friend, Finn Jones, was the world’s biggest prankster. Now Eric can’t believe Finn’s not here anymore. …Or is he?

    Eric seems to be getting messages from beyond the grave, and as he follows Finn’s wild, cryptic instructions, his hope grows that he’ll find Finn laughing at the end.

    The journey also brings memories – and a truth that seems impossible to accept.

    Follow us on Twitter (@thsls) and Insta/ Threads (@towerhamletssls). #thba 

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    Running your book club!

    Download our THBA book club booklet or read it online. A printed copy has been sent out with the free set of shortlist books.

    The booklet has everything you need to start a book club, including general and book-specific discussions and activities as well as ideas for groups wanting to bring a performance to the grand finale.

    Download booklet

    Book club booklet (read online)
    Booklet-for-web1

    The Grand Finale event

    We’re looking forward to another great finale event, with more performances, quizzes and competitions!

    • Venue:Genesis Cinema, Stepney Green.
    • Date and time: Friday 29th November. 10:30am to 1pm/ 1:30pm

    With guest authors

    • Simon James Green
    • Sana Rasoul
    • Matt Goodfellow
    • Nazneen Ahmed Pathak
    • Nathanael Lessore

    Bookshop on the day

    Brick Lane Books will be holding a book stall on the day selling books by the shortlisted authors (10% discount on cover price). If you’d like to pre-order books, please contact Brick Lane books directly Home – Brick Lane Bookshop.

    Presentation Competition

    Up to 8 schools can enter the presentation competition. Prizes and prestige to be won!

    The Genesis means that we’ve got our biggest stage and screen ever to present your work!

    If you wish to present a book at the finale there will be an option to register on the finale booking form.

    Performers at the 2021 finale
    • Prepare a short performance or presentation around one of the shortlisted books
    • Past performances have included acting and dramatisation, discussions, alternate scenes/ endings, film trailers, animation and more!
    • As usual, schools will be allocated slots in the competition on a first come-first served basis as they confirm which book they are presenting, and as long as this book has not already been chosen by too many other schools (all 7 books should have at least 1 presentation each).
    • let the Schools Library Service know which book you’re championing (preferably as soon as possible to ensure your choice of book!). If your book is already fully booked (pun intended), you’ll be asked to choose an alternative, so it’s good to have a reserve title in mind.
    • Presentations will be judged by our guest authors on the group’s ability to deliver their presentation in an entertaining, interesting and exciting way that will appeal to a pupil audience and inspire pupils to read their chosen book.
    • Performances must last no more than 4 minutes.
    Notes for participating schools…
    • Please let us know whether photos can be taken of your groups
    • A/V playback is available but CANNOT be provided by memory stick on the day. All files must be sent to the SLS in advance.
    • You may bring as many props and costumes as you require to the finale, but please take them with you when you leave! Costumes and other items may be borrowed from the Schools Library Services
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    Art Competition

    Every year we run an art competition based on the shortlist books.

    Pupils are challenged to create an artistic response of their choice to any of the 6 Book Award books.

    Previous competition entries have included…

    • Drawings/ paintings of scenes from the books
    • Poems inspired by the stories
    • Alternative endings/ scenes
    • Comic strips based on the books
    • Character portraits
    • Book cover designs
    • Bookmark designs
    • Models of scenes from the books

    Winners will be awarded a prize at the finale where shortlisted work will be on display (guest authors have been known to request competition entries to put on their websites!).

    Competition deadline

    ALL entries must arrive at the Schools Library Services (PDC, 229 Bethnal Green Road) by the close of Thursday 21st November for judging.

  • Picture book award 2024

    Picture book award 2024

    Five days of stories!

    A fun new event to celebrate the power of reading aloud and storytelling

    “Our kids don’t get storytime at home, they don’t read with their parent, so it was so important to give them this experience to learn to love to read.”

    “It should be made mandatory. It’s been good for the teachers’ well-being as much as the children’s. It’s not just another curriculum area. Its benefits are bigger than the time it takes”

    Feedback from the Farshore Storytime in School report (2023)

    This year the Schools Library Services is introducing a new book award for Key Stage 1 that’ll run during the summer term.

     Importantly, the purpose of the Picture Book Award is reading aloud for fun – with no need to have to link to a lesson or curriculum topic! It’s about inspiring a love of stories and being read to. We will be suggesting some fun activities to accompany each book – but these activities will be optional!

    The Winners!

    The votes have all come in and your pupils voted for…

    Best story : My brother is an Avocado : Written by Tracy Darnton, illustrated by Yasmeen Ismail

    Best Illustrations : My brother is an Avocado : Written by Tracy Darnton, illustrated by Yasmeen Ismail

    We’ll be in touch with Tracy and Yasmeen and we hope you all enjoyed these great books!

    Is this event free?

    Participating in the reading and voting is free to any school that subscribes to our service. There is a small charge for anyone wishing to attend one of the accompanying workshops.

    Non-subscribing schools may take part and borrow the 5 books, however they must book at least 1 place on one of the workshops.

    Event timeline

    • From 6th June : We can provide you with a selection of the 5 book award picture books (loaned from the Schools Library Services) to read with pupils in either year 1 or year 2. You choose any week as your reading week in which you read one book each day to the class or group (if you’re planning on attending one of our workshops, you may wish to choose a week after this date)
    • 19th June : Storytelling and story reading workshop with Alastair K Daniel
    • 26th June : Bag Books: multi-sensory stories workshop with Nina Martinez
    • At the end of your reading week! : Having been read all of the books, children will choose their favourite book of the five, we will tally the votes and announce the winner!

    The books

    These are all new picture books published within the last year and have been chosen to demonstrate the range of language styles, illustration and storytelling possible in the medium – we hope that your children (and teachers) will find each book an exciting new journey!

    • My brother is an Avocado : Written by Tracy Darnton, illustrated by Yasmeen Ismail       
    • Doris : Written and Illustrated by Lo Cole
    • The planet in a pickle jar : Written and Illustrated by Martin Stanev
    • The perfect sushi : Written by Emily Satoko Seo, illustrated by Mique Moriuchi
    • I want a dog : Written and Illustrated by Jon Agee       

    Storytelling & reading aloud workshops
    The Picture Book Award will also include the offer of two training sessions for teachers to be held at the Whitechapel Idea Store in June. These workshops will be great for any members of staff wanting to boost their confidence and learn some new techniques to bring to their classroom

    Storytelling and story reading workshop with Alastair K Daniel

    Wednesday 19th June : 16:30 to 18:00

    Alastair is a performance storyteller, researcher, writer and consultant in storytelling. The workshop will cover:

    • the commonalities between story reading and storytelling – not only the role of expression when reading or telling,  but also the need for a dialogic approach to sharing story with children
    • exploring, through practical activities, how using texts as a prompt for storytelling can deepen children’s understanding of those texts, as well as helping to develop  general language comprehension and confidence in oracy.

    Cost is £25 per person for subscribers to the SLS, £30 pp for non-subscribers).

    Bag Books: multi-sensory stories with Nina Martinez

    Wednesday 26th June : 16:30 to 18:00

    Nina is the Storytelling Manager and Trainer at Bag Books. Bag Books is a charity supporting people with learning disabilities through the provision of multi-sensory books and storytelling. Founded in 1993, Bag Books is the only charity in the world publishing multi-sensory books for people with severe or profound and multiple learning disabilities.

    This workshop will cover using multi-sensory stories in your classroom

    Cost is £25 per person for subscribers to the SLS, £30 pp for non-subscribers).

    Why take part?

    • Encourage the reading of picture books for fun.
    • Bring the work of new writers and illustrators into the classroom
    • Training provided will build the confidence of educators and develop their skills in story reading.

    Register

      You can register just to receive a set of the books to read or to attend one or both workshops

      If you’re booking to attend one or both of the workshops, please let us know the number of attendees (subject to available space)



      To reduce spam, please enter the following in the text box below (case sensitive) :

      PBA

      Registration for taking part and for the workshops closes 20th May

      Cancelation policy

      We will not be able to offer refunds for the workshops after 24th May. Cancellations and non-attendees will be invoiced for the full amount after this date.

    • TakeOff! 2024

      TakeOff! 2024

      The Takeoff! 2024 list is 21 great books for children in years 3 and 4 published (paperback) between April 2023 and April 2024

      These books are selected each year by Schools Library Services librarians and aim to cover a diverse  range of authors, subjects and genres.

      For new primary fiction for years 5 and 6, see our Must Read booklist!

      Posters for the 2024 booklists will be delivered to subscribing schools!

      See the full list of books
      TitleAuthorBlurb
      Secret Beast Club: The Dragons of Emerald YardBirch, RobinWhat do you do when there’s a dragon on the loose in Birmingham? Call the Secret Beast Club! Although Beast Club membersAlisha and Jayden will have to be quick before the dragon hunter catches him first…
      Peanut, Butter & Crackers: Puppy ProblemsBraddock, PaigeButter and Crackers’ lovely peaceful life is turned upside down when a new (and very clueless) puppy called Peanut arrives! But when Peanut wanders off and gets lost will Butter and Crackers be able to find him again?
      The Ghost Cat Who saved my LifeButchart, PamelaSav and Liam go investigating when the empty upstairs flat starts meowing, but when Liam gets stuck in the dreaded Bin Room who will save him?
      Mind and MeChawdhary, SunitaPet rabbit Pooey has gone missing! Can Maya and her magical, mischeiveous, shape-changing Mind work together to find her and save the day?
      BudgieCoehlo, JosephMean, cross Mr Buxton is a terrible neighbour, until Miles finds a lost budgie and discovers that actually, he and Mr Buxton have a lot more in common than he thought.
      Izzy the Inventor and the Curse of DoomDavidson, ZannaIzzy believes in science, not magic… until a  fairy lands in her life and sends her off to Fairytale Land! Now Izzy must use her scientific skills to rescue a cursed prince but what will she do about the unicorn and the dragon?
      Lenny Lemmon and the Invincible RatDavis, BenLenny’s school is having an Olden Days school day where everyone dresses up as if they were from the past. But when an escaped rat causes pandemonium what will Lenny do?
      Marnie Midnight and the Moon MysteryEllen Anderson, LauraMarnie the Moth starts her new school and is super keen to learn all about Moon Magic…only to discover, no one believes in it! With her best minibeast friends she investigates and has more than a few shocks and surprises as she trieds to uncover the truth.
      Ada Rue and the BanishedGetten, KereenA mysterious wall of fog on Ada’s new paper round is hiding a whole other world of magical people as well as the town’s nasty secret
      InvestiGators: All Tide UpGreen, John PatrickGraphic novel
      When the captain of a cruise ship is found drifting at sea, the search begins for his missing ship and passengers! Did it sink? Was it boat-napped? Are supernatural forces at play?!
      The Girl Who Became a FishHo-Yen,  PollyIta is terrified of the water and gets left out when her big brothers go swimming, but that all changes down by the river when she discovers that when she puts her hands in the water  they get covered in beautiful scales!
      Two SidesHo-Yen, Polly and Talib, BinnyLula and Lenka are best friends, until a mistake and an argument makes them split up. Will their differences keep them apart?
      Magic Faces: Superhero Mega MissionMerleh, EsiTwo supervillains have swooped in and stolen a priceless gem from the Museum and it’s down to Alanna and Austin and their magic superhero facepaints to save the day!
      Meet the Malik: Twin DetectivesMian, ZanibWhen Maysa and Musa’s cookies are destroyed at a baking competition at thier mosque the twins spring into action to find the culprit, but will they find them before their arch-nemesis Slime-Ah?
      Big Sky Mountain: The Sky EaglesMilway, AlexRosa lives with her Nan on Big Sky Mountain, but when Nan’s away what will Rosa do about a lost golden eagle?
      Major and Mynah: Operation RavenOwen, KarenSomeone has stolen the Crown Jewels from the Tower of London! Luckily Callie, Grace and Bo the Mynah bird are on the case with their amazing detective skills and magical hearind aids to help them.
      Kate on the Case: The Headline HoaxPeck, HannahSomeone’s been tampering with the local newspaper and spreading rubbish, quite literally. Kate and her mouse Rupert need to catch the culprit before the newspaper is forced to close forever!
      Blanksy the Street CatPuckett, GavinBlanksy the Cat discovers he’s a painting genius and soon he’s using his painting prowess to draw a  crowd and help his busker pal Pete.
      Dream Weavers: Night of the Scary FairiesSami, AnnabelleNeena is a dreamweaver and soon she and new best friend Tito are going on wild quirky adventures every night but when their classmates seem to switch bodies the best friends realise someone else is dreamweaving too…and causing chaos!
      Pea, Bee &Jay: The Big BullySmith, BrianThree friends have to deal with an enormous bullying Pumpkin, but is there more to the Pumpkin than they thought?
      Yomi and the Fury of Ninki NankaTijani, DavinaOn a trip to The Gamiba Yomi watches the Dragon King Ninki Nanka get kidnapped right out of the sky. Soon she has to save him and uncover the secrets of the mythical Nkara creatures that roam Africa.

    • Must Read Booklist 2024

      Must Read Booklist 2024

      The Must Read Book list is one of our annual selections of the best fiction for primary schools chosen by librarians from the Schools Library Service and primary and secondary schools, and is a suggested list to buy for your school library.

      For fiction for years 3 and 4, take a look at our Takeoff! booklist.

      The book list represents a selection of the best new fiction first published in paperback within the last year, and covers a diverse range of subjects, genres, authors and interests.

      Titles from the 2024 Teen and Primary lists will be chosen for the Tower Hamlets Book Award short list. Don’t forget to register for this event!

      Posters for the 2024 booklists will be delivered to subscribing schools

      Please contact the library for any further information.

      See the full list of books
      TitleAuthorBlurb
      Koku Akanbi and the Heart of MidnightAdebisi, Maria Motunrayo
      Kòkú, having spent his early years in Nigeria, now lives in the UK with Uncle Tunji. After a disastrous museum trip, his uncle sends him to reconnect with his roots in Olori. However, upon arrival, Kòkú finds himself thrust into a foreign culture and tribal conflict. He discovers he must save the night and its mystical beings from the ruling Ogun tribe’s schemes, despite his small stature and illness.
      Time to Shine at the River SchoolAdeyinka, SabineAs the new term begins at the River School, Jummy and her friends notice the once-beloved Shine-Shine River smells terrible and the egrets have vanished. Despite the distractions of school life—house rivalries, new friendships, and a corn-planting contest—Jummy’s house faces a water shortage. Investigating the mystery leads them to uncover secrets and test their trust in others. Through their adventures, they prove that school children can make a difference.
      The Song WalkerBethell, Zillah
      In the heart of the desert, a young girl awakens with no memory of her identity, clad in a singular shoe and a mysterious black dress, clutching a heavy case. She encounters Tarni, who is embarking on her own enigmatic journey. As they traverse the expansive Australian Outback, seeking answers, they must confront not only the mysteries of their pasts but also the secrets they carry within themselves.
      Squire and KnightChantler, Scott
      A young squire faces mysteries, monsters, and magic, while his inept knight takes credit. Squire, is often overlooked by the brawny Sir Kelton and finds himself in a cursed village with a demonic dragon. As Kelton rides off to slay a beast, Squire stays behind, uncovering strange secrets about the town.
      Call me LionChester, CamillaIn the midst of a Luton heatwave, ten-year-old Leo finds solace in dancing during the holidays, but loneliness pervades his days. When he befriends his new neighbor, Richa, who is outgoing and understanding, Leo’s world brightens. However, Leo grapples with Selective Mutism, unable to speak outside his family. Despite this, Richa accepts him wholeheartedly, sharing her own struggles. Their friendship blossoms, as they navigate loneliness, confront bullies, and conquer fears together. Richa and Leo’s journey is a heartwarming tale of transformation and the power of true friendship.
      Aubrey and the Terrible SpidersClare, HoratioIn a world where children rule, there’s something terrible lurking in the woods and hero Aubrey must confront the Spiders and work out whose side they’re really on…
      Attack of the Robot LibrariansCopeland, SamAs a new year begins at Little Strangehaven Primary, the weirdness continues. Laser-eyed robot librarians enforce class discipline, pedal-powered desks appear, and mysterious activities unfold in the cellar. Spy-detectives Tuchus and Topps suspect Pamela Stranglebum and her company, Minerva Industries, are behind it all. With their Scottish gargoyle friend Gregor, Lenny and Agatha embark on a mission to uncover the truth before it’s too late.
      Finding my VoiceDooley, AoifeFrankie is autistic and she’s a little nervous about starting her new secondary school. Everything is going well, she even starts playing in a rock band, but then bullies try to ruin it all.
      Black Hole Cinema ClubEdge, Christopher
      When Lucas and his friends gather at the local cinema for a movie marathon, they’re sucked into an unexpected adventure as a jet-black tidal wave emerges from the screen. From secret hideouts to prehistoric monsters, they embark on perilous missions, questioning if these movies are more than just fiction. With the fate of the world at stake, they must become heroes before the credits roll.
      Trixie Pixie: Toxic TakedownFalafel, OlafAs a strange sickness sweeps through Wormwood Town, suspicions arise about the water source. Trixie Pickle, the Art Avenger, harnesses the power of art to uncover the truth behind the town reservoir mystery. Amidst school boredom, comic creation with her friend Beeks, and tackling local bullies, Trixie finds inspiration from artistic legends like Botticelli, Damien Hirst, and Kehinde Wiley to triumph in her investigation.
      The Rescue of RavenswoodFarrant, Natasha
      Bea and Raffy live in Ravenwood, a historic house in northern England with a cherished treehouse in the ancient woods. Their idyllic summer is disrupted when Noa arrives, Bea’s parents plan to leave, and Uncle Jack wants to sell his share of the house, threatening their beloved ash tree. Despite internal conflicts, the children unite to protect their home and preserve what they hold dear.
      the Boy in the SmokeFaturoti, RachelIsaiah, despite being clever and popular, faces tough times as his family struggles financially after his father’s accident. Ashamed of their situation, he seeks to make money by representing his school at a Victorian exhibition. Discovering his tower block’s history as a former workhouse, Isaiah stumbles upon a time portal and befriends a boy named Jacob from the 1830s. As he uncovers Jacob’s peril, Isaiah grapples with the moral dilemma of altering the past to save his friend.
      Most Haunted TheatresFielding, Yvette
      Join ghost-hunting expert Yvette Fielding and her Most Haunted team as they explore Britain’s haunted theatres, revealing chilling tales such as the father of clowns, Charles Macklin’s ghost, and the tragic ballerina’s lingering spirit.
      The Case of the Lighthouse IntruderGetten, Kereen
      Fayson and her mother struggle financially in their small Jamaican apartment. When she visits her affluent cousins on a nearby island, Fayson is drawn into a mystery: a shadowy figure appears at the lighthouse each evening. With her detective dreams in mind, Fayson investigates, but faces unexpected challenges from a local child. Through her journey, she learns that true wealth lies in love, kindness, and friendship, not money.
      Ace and the Animal Heroes: The Big Farm RescueGill, JB
      Ace’s life takes a dramatic turn when he inherits a run-down farm from a long-lost relative. Equipped with magical wellies that allow him to communicate with animals, Ace must confront the villainous Councillor Crabbington, who threatens to shut down the farm. With the aid of his animal friends and newfound ally, Ace races to save the farm from impending doom.
      The Final YearGoodfellow, Matt ; Todd-Stanton, JoeTen-year-old Nate lives with his mum and younger brothers, Jax and Dylan. Nate’s best friend PS is moved to a different class, leaving Nate upset. Nate’s nemesis, Turner, becomes friends with PS, adding to Nate’s frustration. However, Nate finds solace in writing, encouraged by his teacher Mr. Joshua. When Dylan falls ill and is hospitalized, Nate’s world is shaken, and he must navigate his emotions and fears.
      The Lonely BookGrehan, MegA magical bookshop that always has a book for everyone, no matter what, suddenly has a book in it that doesn’t seem to have an owner – it’s lonely. Annie has to help it and her beloved bookshop and the answer might be closer to home than she thinks.
      Signs of Survival: A Memoir of the HolocaustHartman, Renee & Greene, Joshua M.In 1940s Czechoslovakia, Jewish sisters Renee and Herta faced imminent danger during the Holocaust. As the sole hearing member, Renee alerted her family to approaching Nazis. After their parents’ tragic capture, the sisters fled, eventually landing in Bergen-Belsen concentration camp. Relying on sign language and each other, they navigated sickness and starvation, fighting for survival in the face of despair.
      StitchKenny, Padraig
      Stitch and his friend Henry Oaf, owe their existence to the brilliant Professor Hardacre. However, when the professor’s nefarious nephew takes control, Henry becomes the target of his twisted experiments. Determined to evade capture, Stitch and Henry must navigate a world where they’re viewed as monsters. Will they outwit their captor and find acceptance in a world they were never meant for?
      Safiyyah’s WarKhan, Hiba Noor
      As war approaches Europe, Safiyyah’s life in Paris at the Grand Mosque remains peaceful. However, as the conflict encroaches, the city undergoes drastic changes: refugees arrive, wealthy Parisians leave, and German soldiers impose restrictions. Safiyyah observes the worsening conditions and discovers signs of rebellion within her community. Despite the risks, she resolves to take action.
      Dread Wood: Fright BiteKillick, Jennifer
      Colette’s birthday celebration takes a chilling turn at Neon Perch’s escape room, where the game taps into each player’s deepest fears. Locked in with terrifying creatures, including giant rats, the friends face a nightmarish ordeal they never anticipated.
      JamieLapinski, L.D.Jamie is non binary, but what do they do when they have to choose a secondary school, and they only seem to have room for grils or boys? Does Jamie have to choose?
      The Case of the Chaos MonsterLawrence, PatriceAfter an orchestra explodes, London’s music disappears and a monstrous threat emerges. Detectives must track down the thief through iconic landmarks and dark streets to save the city.
      Moon FlightLewis, Gill
      Tilbury Twitch-Whiskers, seventh-born rat of his litter, resides in Tilbury Docks with his doting mother. Each year, ratlings attempt to unlock the Gilded Cage to return the cursed diamond, the Cursed Night. This year, Tilbury and his sister, witness Tilbury’s success in opening the cage, sparking their adventure to the City in the Clouds, fraught with danger and excitement.
      Wider than the SeaMolloy, SerenaRó struggles with reading and avoids speaking in class, finding solace in drawing and her friendship with Sunny the dolphin. Her home life is tense, with her parents constantly arguing or ignoring each other. Ró hides her difficulties from her parents, fearing she’s the cause of their unhappiness. As her friend The Bean gains popularity for his athletic prowess, Ró feels increasingly isolated, especially when Sunny goes missing.
      Ink GirlsNijkamp, Marieke and Bi, Sylvia11-year-old Cinzia is a printer’s apprentice. She adores Mestra Aronne for taking her in—most guilds don’t have room for apprentices with a crippled leg—and she loves life in the raggedy workshop, where secrets and stories are always circulating. So when Mestra Aronne is imprisoned for publishing accusations against the ruling family, Cinzia will do anything to prove that Mestra Aronne only told the truth.
      FablehouseNorry, E.L.
      When Heather arrives at Fablehouse children’s home, she finally finds a safe haven and genuine friends. Exploring the ancient woodlands with her newfound companions, they encounter Palamedes, a Black Knight from King Arthur’s court. As the children and staff start behaving oddly, Heather and her friends, known as The Roamers, must confront the dark forces lurking beneath Fablehouse to protect their home and its inhabitants.
      The Silver RoadO’Hart, Sinead
      One stormy night, Rose encounters a massive ice giant made of hailstones who gives her a strange reddish stone before disappearing. Seeking guidance from her elderly friends Nellie and Gracie, Rose learns of a hidden world of magic beneath her feet on the Silver Road. Realizing the stone’s destructive potential in the wrong hands, Rose vows to protect it. However, when she faces bullying and escalating dangers, Rose’s quest becomes an epic struggle to save both the stone and her world.
      Last Girl inParkinson, Cheryl DianeKerry-Ann’s passion for cricket runs deep, thanks to her Jamaican grandpa’s early teachings. When elite players try to exclude her and her team from the local club, Kerry-Ann devises a bold plan to overcome their challenges. In a magical time-slip adventure, she learns about her grandparents’ struggles as part of the Windrush generation, inspiring her to fight for fairness and continue enjoying the game they both cheris
      City of Stolen MagicPathak, Nazneen Ahmed
      In 1855 India, under British rule, people born with magic are disappearing. When Chompa’s mother, Ammi, is kidnapped, Chompa enlists the help of Ammi’s friend Mohsin to find her. Their search takes them from rural India to London’s East End, where they uncover a plot by businessman Sir Clive Devaynes to exploit magic for power and wealth.
      The Twig ManRasoul, SanaA year has passed since Ari’s older sister, Lana, vanished. But Ari knows the truth: she was taken by the Twig Man, a terrifying creature lurking in the woods for a century. With no one believing him, Ari takes it upon himself to rescue Lana before it’s too late. However, time is running out as Ari finds himself next on the Twig Man’s sinister list.
      The Piano at the StationRutter, HelenLacey spends most of her time in isolation at school thanks to her quick tongue and even quicker temper, but when new music teacher Mr Day introduces her to a piano, Lacey’s life starts to change, but what happens when her family find out about her music?
      The Legend of Ghastly Jack CrowheartSchauer, LorettaLife at the Squawking Mackerel Inn is miserable for Lil, burdened with messy tasks and constant bullying. But when the notorious Rotten Bob Hatchet and his gang terrorize travelers, Lil teams up with a new friend, Ned, and a cantankerous crow, to concoct a plan. Armed with odd items from the lost property cupboard, revolting dumplings, and knicker elastic, they create the legend of Ghastly Jack Crowheart, the Demon Highwayman, to fend off Rotten Bob.
      Ajay and the Jaipur MoonShah, VarshaAjay and his friends run their own newspaper, but struggling are struggling with sales. When a meteor crashes in India with a large prize for its discovery, they see an opportunity to change their fortunes. Billionaire Mrs. Surya offers not only cash but also access to her secret space program. Determined to win, the friends head to Jaipur, but they soon uncover secrets beyond their imagination.
      Rani Reports on the Missing MillionsShewhorak, Gabrielle and Satish
      Ten-year-old Rani eagerly anticipates her nani’s visit from Mauritius, hoping she’ll inspire her junior journalist competition entry. On Nani’s arrival, they stumble upon a treacherous treasure hunt organized by an eccentric millionaire. Seeing it as the perfect article topic, Rani and Nani join the race to solve the clues. However, they face fierce competition, including the missteps of wannabe journalist Lexi. Can Rani and Nani crack the puzzle before time runs out?
      GunhildTornager, Fred
      Gunhild, a fire Jotun raised among humans, dreams of becoming a god despite widespread doubt. As she navigates Norse mythology and encounters famous gods like Odin and Thor, her determination and alliance with the mischievous Loki propel her forward. Facing foes and winning allies, Gunhild fights smart to achieve her dream against all odds.
      The Prisoner of BhopalWalker, TimOn his tenth birthday, Amil discovers a secret First World War journal hidden in a trunk, revealing a shared magical gift with his great-grandfather: they can read the wind. As the journal’s pages come to life, they uncover the mystery behind Amil’s presence and face a catastrophic event when poison gas leaks from a pesticide plant into the air above Bhopal.
      The Storm SwimmerWeze, ClareGinika is sent her to live with her grandparents by the sea, where she initially struggles with homesickness. However, she befriends Peri, a boy who lives in the sea and communicates in a unique language. Their secret friendship flourishes until Peri’s health deteriorates due to human noise and lights. With only her new friend Ted in the know, Ginika faces a daunting challenge in helping Peri without revealing his existence.
      Doughnuts, Thieves and ChimpanzeesWharton, AlexAlex Wharton’s latest poetry collection, penned during his tenure as Children’s Laureate Wales, 2023-2025, is a delightful blend of humor and playfulness. From poems about emotions to ones featuring mice, school, and monsters, there’s even a quirky piece about a horse on the loo! With rhythmic rhymes, catchy rhythms, and even rap and song, these verses are perfect for lively readings. Wharton, a seasoned spoken word poet, aims to ignite a passion for poetry in young minds by demystifying various poetic forms like haiku and limericks and providing ample examples.
      Quiet StormWhittam, KimberlyStorm has always been in the shadow of her best friend Zarrish. As Zarrish moves on to new interests and friends, Storm feels left behind. When Storm breaks the school’s sprinting record, she discovers a passion for sports and the teamwork it entails. Through experiences of rejection and embarrassment, Storm learns the importance of lifting each other up, ultimately finding her voice and courage to pursue her interests.

    • Teen Booklist 2024

      Teen Booklist 2024

      The Teenage Book list is selected annually by librarians from the Schools Library Service and secondary schools, and is a list of recommended fiction to buy for your school library.

      The teen list represents a selection of the best new fiction first published in paperback within the last 12 months, and covers a diverse range of subjects, genres, authors and interests.

      Titles from the Teen and Primary lists will be chosen for the Tower Hamlets Book Award short list in July. Remember to let us know if you want to participate in this event!

      Posters for the 2024 booklists will be delivered to subscribing schools!

      Please contact the library for more information on the Teen List or to request additional posters (subscribing schools only – subject to availability).

      See the full list of books

      TitleAuthorBlurb
      Where the light goesBarnard, SaraIn the aftermath of a devastating tragedy, protagonist Emma finds herself grappling with the shattered pieces of her once idyllic life. As she struggles to make sense of her new reality, she embarks on a poignant quest for healing, guided by unexpected friendships and the resilience of the human spirit.
      You’re not supposed to die tonightBayron, KalynnAt Camp Mirror Lake, guests pay to be scared in a full-contact terror game. Charity Curtis has been cast as the ‘final girl’ as her summer crew recreate scenes from a classic slasher film, Curse of Camp Mirror Lake. But when people start disappearing and one shows up dead, Charity and her girlfriend need to figure out what this killer is after. Is there is more to the story of Mirror Lake and its dangerous past than Charity ever suspected?
      Warrior girl unearthedBoulley, Angeline16-year-old Perry Firekeeper-Birch plans to quit her museum internship until she meets ‘Warrior Girl,’ a Native American ancestor locked away in the archives. Determined to bring her home, Perry orchestrates a daring heist with friends, uncovering deeper secrets that must be rectified to preserve their ancestors’ legacy.
      You could be so prettyBourne, HollySet in a dystopian world, where girls are expected to maintain impossible beauty standards, there are two options for girls: be a Pretty or be an Objectionable. Belle works hard to be crowned a Pretty whereas Joni, works hard to escape the Education to be an Objectionable. Can these two girls from different worlds, work together, destroy the rules and set themselves free?
      Away with WordsCameron, SophieGala and her dad, from Cataluña to a town in Scotland. Gala doesn’t speak much English, and feels unable to be her usual funny self. Until she befriends Natalie, a girl with selective mutism. The two find their own ways to communicate, which includes collecting other people’s discarded words. They use the words to write anonymous supportive poems for their classmates, but then someone begins leaving nasty messages using the same method – and the girls are blamed.
      Kicked outDassu, A.M.Ali is a regluar year 8 kid, hoping to have the best summer ever with his friends Sami and Mark. But things don’t go as planned. Mark and Ali have been kicked out of their friends house and their friend Aadam is facing deportation. To top it off, Ali’s dad, who abandoned the family when Ali was little, is suddenly turning up everywhere in town, and a half-brother Ali never knew has shown up at Ali’s school.
      Electric LifeDelahaye, RachelEstrella is the perfect society. Everyone says so.
      But the nearest thing to a challenge is the constant stream of digital entertainment and virtual reality games that simulate a natural world that no longer exists. And that’s not enough for Alara. She’s bored.
      So, when she gets the chance to execute a secret mission in the toxic, dangerous wastes of London Below, she jumps at the chance even though it terrifies her as much as it excites her.
      Forget me notDerrick, AlysonStevie, and her girlfriend Nora have a plan. They will leave their small, ultra-conservative town and families behind after graduation and move to California, where they can finally stop hiding their love. but, when Stevie has a terrible fall, causing her to forget the last two years, she finds herself in a life she doesn’t quite understand. Can the two beat the odds a second time and find their way back together when “together” itself is just a lost memory?
      The witches of PendleFielding, YvetteA new family arrives in Pendle and discover a witch’s bottle filled with curses. Shortly after, the ghosts of the accused witches of the Pendle Witch Trials are released and looking for revenge. Ghost hunters Eve, Clovis and Tom must go up against the powerful witches and try and stop them before it’s too late.
      Crossing the lineFisher, TiaErik’s life has been falling apart ever since his dad died. Homework and being good at school stop feeling important when you’re the new man of the house. When Erik’s bad behaviour attracts the wrong crowd, he’s sucked into a terrifying new world of drug dealing, trap houses and violence. Making money feels good but Erik soon learns that a small favour can become a huge debt.
      Wild SongGourlay, CandyThe year is 1904. Luki has lived a tribal life in the mountains of the Philippines. Now she’s growing up, she is expected to become a wife and a mother, but Luki isn’t ready to give up her dream to become a warrior.When her tribe are offered a journey to America to be part of the St. Louis World’s Fair, Luki will discover that the land of opportunity does not share its possibilities equally . . .
      Boy Like meGreen, Simon JamesJamie Hampton reads a novel and his whole world changes. When a kind librarian leads Jamie to a disguised novel in the library that reflects his own confused feelings towards boys, Jamie sees that he’s not the only one who has checked the book out.
      This Book KillsGuron, RavenaWhen the most popular and richest kid in Jess Choudhary’s school, is found dead, everyone is left reeling and wondering who the murderer could be… Jess finds herself at the centre of the investigation when it’s revealed that he died in the exact same way as a character in a short story she wrote.
      Threads that bindHatzopoulou, KikaLo is decended from the fates. She has the ability to see threads that bind people together. Io must follow clues through the city’s darkest corners and unearth a conspiracy that involves some of the city’s most powerful players—before destruction comes to her own doorstep.
      StoneHawkins, FinbarWhen Sam discovers a silver-flecked stone after his father’s death, strange occurrences unfold. Magic and myth converge on the ancient hillside where the chalk white horse roams. As Halloween approaches, witches gather and Odin calls forth warriors. Only the mysterious Oona can soothe Sam’s grief, unveiling tarot secrets with her captivating presence.
      The first moveIreland, JennyJuliet believes girls like her – girls with arthritis – don’t get their own love stories. She plays online chess under a pseudonym. There, she isn’t just ‘the girl with crutches’.
      Ronan is the new kid: good looking, smart, a bad boy plagued by guilt over what happened to his brother. Chesslife is his escape. Juliet thinks Ronan thinks someone like Ronan could never be interested in someone like her – and she wouldn’t want him to be anyway – he always acts like he’s cooler than everyone else. Little do they know they’ve already discovered each other online, and have more in common than they think . . .
      The stories grandma forgot (and how I found them)Jassat, Nadine AishaTwelve-year-old Nyla’s dad died when she was four, or that’s what she’s been told.Grandma Farida insists she saw him in the supermarket, Nyla wonders if she is ‘time-travelling’ again – the phrase she uses when Grandma forgets. But when Grandma asks Nyla to find her dad and bring him home, Nyla promises that she will. As Nyla sets out on her journey, she hopes that uncovering the past will help her to understand the mystery at the heart of her family … and to work out who she is.
      As long as the lemon trees growKatouh, ZoulfaA year ago, before the revolution, Salama watched her brother marry her best friend, Layla, and wondered when her own love story might begin. Now she works at the hospital – helping those she can, closing the eyes of those she can’t. Layla and her unborn baby are all Salama has left. Unless you count Khawf. But he’s a hallucination; a symptom of the horrors she’s seen. Every day he urges Salama to leave. Every day she refuses.
      Steady for thisLessore, NathanaelShaun (aka MC Growls) is ready to drop his best bars and smash the competition at Raptology. That way, he’s convinced Tanisha, his crush, will finally give him a chance. But when a livestream practice goes epically wrong, Growls’s dirty laundry is literally exposed. He’s finally achieved his dreams of going viral – not in the good way.
      You think you know meMohamud, AyaanPeople like me are devils before we are angels.
      Hanan has always been good and quiet. She accepts her role as her school’s perfect Muslim poster girl. She ignores the racist bullies.
      A closed mouth is gold – it helps you get home in one piece.
      Then her friend is murdered and every Muslim is to blame.
      The world is angry at us again.
      How can she stay silent while her family is ripped apart? It’s time for Hanan to stop being the quiet, good girl. It’s time for her to stand up and shout.
      Delicious MonstersSambury, LiselleThis story follows two girls a decade apart, and their shared experiences in a remote mansion that is steeped with mystery. Daisy and her mother move to their family mansion after the passing of Daisy’s uncle. Daisy begins having disturbing experiences that make her question the history of the property and her mother’s story regarding it all.As Brittney investigates the mansion in the present, Daisy’s story runs parallel in the past, both timelines propelling the girls to face the most dangerous monsters of all: those that hide in plain sight.
      100 tales from the Tokyo Ghost CaféSedgwick, JulianAkira must make the long journey in north Japan to find his family and save his young sister, before time runs out. On his journey Akira and his companions encounter a host of yokai monsters and famous ghosts, discovering a sometimes comical and sometimes terrifying world of interlinked and ghostly short stories along the way
      RavencaveSedgwick, MarcusOn holiday in Yorkshire, James is bored out of his mind being dragged around various old ruins as his dad tries to trace his family’s roots. Then one day as his parents bicker and his moody teenage brother ignores him, James hears mischievous laughter and the ghost of a young girl appears to him at Crackpot Hall. When she appears again after another argument between James and his brother, he goes after her, leading to a gruesome discovery that reveals a terrible truth about his family.
      Friendship never endsSheppard, AlexandraSunita, Gifty, Dawn and May are about to have a summer they’ll never forget. Each girl spends their summer learning about first crushes, new friends, the strain of growing up and hopefully not growing apart, family ties, and their own ambition.
      Happy HeadSilver, JoshWhen Seb is offered a place on a radical retreat designed to solve the national crisis of teenage unhappiness, he is determined to change how people see him and make his parents proud. But the deeper into the programme he gets, the more disturbing the assessments become, until it’s clear there may be no escape…
      The last whaleVick, ChrisAbi, banned from her school for questionable IT use, heads to a remote Norwegian island with her grandma. Despite idyllic surroundings, the lack of WiFi hinders her eco-activism mission. Using a borrowed AI, she tracks whales crucial to Earth’s survival, but an incident puts her family at risk. Set across decades, this eco-thriller imagines a future where failing to address climate change imperils humanity, highlighting the importance of whale conservation across generations.
      Vern, custodian of the universeWaiters, Tyrell
      Vern decides to return to his family in the Sunshine State, starting a new dead-end job as a custodian at a local science facility with a shady motive. Things aren’t entirely what they seem at Quasar, and when Vern accidentally plugs in a mysterious machine he finds himself standing on the brink of the destruction of every planet in the Multiverse.
      What happens after midnightWalther, K.L.Lily Hopper has two more weeks until she’s officially finished with boarding school. With graduation quickly approaching Lily is worried that she’s somehow missed out on the fun of being in high school. So, when she receives a mysterious note inviting her to join the anonymous senior class Jester in executing the end-of-year prank, Lily sees her chance to put her goody-two-shoes reputation behind her.
      Stars in their eyesWalton, Jessica ; AskaMaisie is on her way to Fancon where she will come face-to-face with her idol, Kara Bufano, fellow amputee and hardcore heroine of her favourite TV show. But when Maisie and her mum arrive at the convention centre, she is stopped in her tracks by Ollie, a cute volunteer working the show. They are kind, charming, and geek out about nerd culture just as much as Maisie does. And as the day wears on, Maisie’s heart swells with feelings for Ollie in ways that she’s never felt before.
      Is this what it feels like to fall in love?
      Postcards from ValhallaWeston, DannyOne morning, Viggo wakes to the news that his older brother, Magnus, has gone missing on Shetland. Viggo’s dad, Jonathan, went ‘off grid’ in the same location and disappeared 5 years ago.Viggo and his mother have no option but to go to Shetland – but from the moment they set off, he’s troubled by strange visions. As the search for Magnus begins, Viggo’s troubling visions start to intensify. Soon he is finding it difficult to separate fact from fantasy.
      Bite RiskWillis, S.JWhen everyone’s a werewolf, it’s hard to spot the monster…One night a month when the full moon rises and kids like him must lock up their parents while they transform into werewolves. Strange things begin happening in the town and people are going missing. It’s up to Sel and his friends to what is happening, before it’s too late!

    • Junior Poetry Slam 2024

      Junior Poetry Slam 2024

      The Junior SLAM is run by the Schools Library Service and The Poetry Society and has engaged primary school children in Tower Hamlets for several years now. It is a project that will focus not only the participants’ literacy and oracy, but also crucially on their emotional literacy.

      The 2023 Slam is supported by Arts Council England and the Samuel Butler Educational Foundation

      Schools taking part received :

      • INSET training for up to 3 staff members
      • 2 days of workshops with a poet in your school
      • Performance day at the SLAM Finale

      For more information about the slam, email : schoolslibraryservices@towerhamlets.gov.uk

      Slam performances 2024

      Following their coaching, pupils took to the RichMix stage putting on solo and group performances. Performance poet Kat Francois returned as our MC on the day.

      19 classes of pupils performed solo and group poems over 3 slam events. We have permission to present five of these classes here.

      St Annes & Guardian Angels School performances. Awarded ‘Best line in a group poem’ for the Wednesday AM Slam.

      Harbinger School’s performances. Awarded ‘Best line in a solo poem’ in the Wednesday AM Slam.

      Lansbury Lawrence School’s (Kahlo Class’) performance – Kahlo class were awarded the prize for most supportive audience.

      Performers from St Pauls Whitechapel Primary School in the Wednesday PM session. Awarded the prize for ‘Best attitude’.

      St Saviours’ school performances. St Saviours were awarded the prize for ‘Best line in a group poem’ in the Wednesday PM Slam.

    • Worries and hope

      Worries and hope

       

      We’ve selected a series of books that teachers may find useful when addressing pupil’s questions or worries in relation to current world events.

      These are examples and this isn’t an exhaustive list. Teachers are welcome to request books on these or similar topics or discuss suggestions with our librarians.

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