Ahoy! Pirates!

It's International Talk Like a Pirate Day, me hearties. Discover author Justin Somper's favourite pirate books, read kids' reviews of piratical-themed reads, and tell us about your favourite pirate stories

Knight School by Jane Clarke and Jane Massey – review

Reba and Amatullah, aged 2: 'This story will appeal to all young children especially those starting school soon.'

Young Critics competition – just a few days left to enter!

The closing date is Monday 24 September so get tapping away to be in with a chance of winning book tokens and sets of books

Justin’s Funny Faces Sticker Activity Book by Justin Fletcher – review

Jennifer and Minnie: 'On the last page is Justin's face that you can add stickers too so warts, evil eyes funny teeth...'

Knight School by Jane Clarke – review

Reba and Amatullah'The simple text engaged Amatullah fully and the cute colourful pictures were a delight to look at'

I Didn’t Do It! by Tony Ross – review

Angus and Isobel 'a wicked and wickedly amusing tale of what children get up to when they're left alone'

Bobbo Goes To School by Shirley Hughes – review

Reba and Amatullah 'Amatullah enjoyed this story and babbled away beside me, telling me her own version of the story afterwards'

The story of the little mole who knew it was none of his business by Werner Holzwarth – review

Jennifer and Minnie: 'This is a book about poo. Lots and lots of poo. So obviously it's the best book in the world'

Happy Roald Dahl Day!

It's Roald Dahl Day today and we're celebrating with a Dahly takeover of the site in honour of the great storyteller. Join in the fun, from listening to the great man himself read from the BFG and testing your knowledge of his books in a quiz to sharing your favourite Roald Dahl character

Dahlicious Dress Up Day – which character will you be?

Which of your favourite Roald Dahl characters will you dress up as for Dahlicious Dress Up Day on Friday 28 September? Share your ideas and costume tips here