Are children’s books darker than they used to be?
The best children's books have always tackled challenging themes within a wonderful story and today's tales are no different
Reader reviews roundup
We're transporting you to magical lands, ancient manuscripts and fantastic animal adventures in this weeks' roundup!
Double Daisy by Kes Gray – review
Jinan: 'I liked this book because it's very funny'
Superkid by Claire Freedman and Sarah McIntyre – review
Zara- 'My 7 year old brother also picked it up because the front cover is right up his street, he loved it too'
Claude in the Spotlight by Alex T Smith – review
Prince Caspian: 'I think boys and girls will like this book (even though it is very pink)'
How we made: Horrid Henry
Author Francesca Simon and illustrator Tony Ross describe how their mischievous, much-loved characters give children the thrill of being bad – without the consequences
Michael Rosen’s A-Z: The best children’s poetry from Agard to Zephaniah – review
cute cat: 'Everyone will find a poem to suit them, even if it's just one'
Warrior Cats: Into the Wild by Erin Hunter – review
Clementine2828: 'I loved this book, I just couldn't stop reading it!'
Horrid Henry’s Car Journey by Francesca Simon – review
Prince Caspian: 'I think that anyone who's ever been on a long car journey will find this book funny'
Your stories: Sunset by Tigerwatcher – poem
A haunting and beautiful description of sunset by site member Tigerwatcher
Reviews roundup: your top reads this month!
In this brand new slot we discuss the children's books site's most-read book this month – as chosen by your reviews!
Which books might help a young child move from infant to junior school?
Book doctor: There are lots of books about starting primary school or moving on to secondary school, but few about changing key stages. Try books which are generally positive about school
Reader reviews roundup
It was half-term last week so you'll forgive us for being a bit slow out of the blocks... But we promise this roundup is worth the wait: historical tragedies, childhood adventures and a Samurai granny!
Longlist released for 2013 Guardian children’s fiction prize
Richard Lynch-Smith This year's selection is set to present a challenge for the judges, with books from John Green, Sally Gardner and Rebecca Stead all in contention