Now You See Me - Young Adult Book Review

So this week I'm still on a YA Mission. I've just finished reading, 'Now You See Me' by Emma Haughton. 

Once again Usborne YA fiction did not let me down. The suspense is created from the beginning and the emotions are displayed brilliantly.

We find Hannah is left with lots of questions when at the age of 12 years old, her mum dies. Then a year later, her best friend disappears. She and Danny were like family. Three years later Danny is still missing. Hannah is still very close to Danny's mum, dad & sister, Alice. She spends much of her time with them. Her father has never been the same since her mum died. He is always working and there is obvious tension between her father and Danny's parents. Every chapter in the book had me asking questions about what would happen next. What was going on with her father? What happened to Danny? Would her life make sense?

Even though the book is from Hannah's point of view, being a parent I could understand how Martha must feel. She is utterly torn apart when her son disappears. I don't think any parent could give up hope until some kind of conclusion was drawn. 

Emma has written a very dramatic thriller that is un-put-downable. I loved Hannah's character. I loved her loyalty, her ability to care for others through her unselfishness, especially when it comes to looking after Alice. Particulary when she has so many mixed emotions herself. A teenage girl - her mother sadly passed, her best friend missing and her father taking little interest in her. She has lots of unanswered questions and deals with life amazingly. But I love that she still shows her teenage tendencies too.

I also love the structure of the book; the beginning giving us a great insight into what happened. The second part is full of even more suspense. I couldn't put it down.

If you're interested in purchasing this fantastic debut novel by Emma Haughton, please see 'The Story Explorers Club Book Shop'.

Can't wait to read her next one, 'Better left Buried'.

Young Adult Fiction Giveaway

It's got to be said, I'm very impressed with Usborne's Young Adult Section. The books are aimed at 14 years + and I'm just working my way through some of their books at the moment. I would definitely say they are suitable for adults too!

In my excitement for this wonderful collection, 

I have a giveaway!  

'The Memory Chronicles by Lenore Appelhans - Series 1' 

paperback for 1 lucky reader!

The Memory Chronicles, was the first Usborne Young Adult book I read. It was a bit different to the usual type of thing I would read, a mixture of sci-fi and fantasy, but with the added element of contemporary gave it a completely different twist.

When Felicia Ward finds herself trapped between what seems to be earth and heaven, she spends endless days replaying memories and trying to understand how she ended up dead! The replaying of the memories is my favourite part. It is a great way of finding out more about Felicia without actually telling us about her character.

When she meets the guy that broke her heart, but yearns for the one she thought she left behind, her emotions run high.

The pressure is on when Felicia finds out she is the key to breaking free from Level 2.

It was interesting to read about how afterlife could be. In a way that I've never thought about it before. It was an intriguing read. I think this is a fantastic debut novel that has the thrill of the chase, addicatable characters and a plot that is full of suspense.

The second book in the series, 'Chasing Before,' is available as an ebook, and again Lenore Appelhans didn't disappoint when it came to finding out what happened next.

To enter the giveaway, simply complete the contact form on Victoria J Brown's website, advising you want to enter the prize draw. You'll also be entered into the Usborne Books £100 Monthly Prize Draw.

Our time with All Saints Primary School

Vicky had fun visiting All Saints Primary School in Thirsk in November. She held some creative writing workshops with YRs 3-6 followed by a writing competition. 

Winners were taken from each year group, they definitly used their imaginations well.

The school decided to do a sponsored write rather than a sponsored read. They all put pen to paper, taking ideas from the creative writing session and wrote their own stories. Vicky wasn't looking for the best writing, spelling, grammar etc. although those things are important, she wanted the children to use their creative skills and imagination.

Each child who participated received a certificate, each child who raised over £15 or more received a an Usborne Creative Writing Book.

The younger children participated in storytelling, joining with singing and actions throughout the sessions.

Mary Davies, YR 5/6 Teacher, English Co-ordinator & SENCO

of ‘All Saints Roman Catholic Primary School, Thirsk’ says

‘This was a great opportunity to develop my pupils’ English skills in a fun and exciting way. The children were really enthusiastic about the competition element of the story writing, but learned some important new skills through Vicky’s input in school. Furthermore, the whole school were thrilled with the fantastic selection of new books we acquired for our library through the sponsorship!! Thank you Vicky!’ 

http://org.usbornebooksathome.co.uk/storyexplorers 

www.victoria-brown.com