I‘ve built a library of articles for parents and students alike, designed to help you prepare for different stages of school life, like 11+, KS3 and KS4, how to get ready for exams (based on my experience as an AQA Examiner), alongside resources to help with key GCSE texts including An Inspector Calls, Macbeth and Lord of the Flies. And take a look at some of the book reviews I’ve written, too!
Articles
8 Brilliant Books That Get Children Off Screens and Into Stories
Struggling to get your KS3 child reading? Discover brilliant book recommendations that build healthy reading habits and prepare students for GCSE.
Book Review: When the Sky Falls by Phil Earle (Why KS3 Students Shouldn’t Miss This Powerful Story)
When the Sky Falls by Phil Earle is a moving WWII story about friendship, courage and resilience. A perfect choice for KS3 students in Years 7–9.
Book Review: A Kind of Spark by Elle McNicoll (Why KS3 Students Should Definitely Pick This Up)
If you’re after a story that’s heartwarming, powerful and makes you see the world a little differently, A Kind of Spark by Elle McNicoll is the perfect choice. It’s an uplifting, important story about courage, kindness and speaking up, and it’s a brilliant read for students in Years 7, 8 and 9.
Book Review: Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan (Why KS3 Students Will Love This Epic Adventure)
A funny, fast-paced read packed with monsters, myths and magical quests…here’s why Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief is a must-read for KS3 students who love action and adventure.
Book Review: Wonder by R.J. Palacio (Why KS3 Students Should Read It)
Wonder by R.J. Palacio is a heartfelt, uplifting story that KS3 students will love. This review explores why it matters, what it teaches, and how it helps readers reflect on kindness, empathy and being brave.
Book Review: The Boy at the Back of the Class by Onjali Q. Raúf (Why KS3 Students Should Read It)
The Boy at the Back of the Class is a moving and memorable story that KS3 students will love. This review explores what it’s about, why it matters, and how it can help young readers develop empathy, understanding and reading confidence.
Book Review: Crater Lake by Jennifer Killick (Why KS3 Students Will Love This Creepy, Funny Read)
Like creepy stories with a sense of humour? Crater Lake is a spooky, funny, fast-paced adventure that KS3 students will love. Think Goosebumps meets school trip gone wrong…here’s why it’s worth a read.
Book Review: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (Why KS3 Students Will Love It)
If you’re in Years 7–9 and love stories that are exciting, dramatic and packed with big ideas, The Hunger Games is a must-read. This review explains what it’s about, why it works so well for KS3 readers, and how it can inspire your English skills.
Book Review: Ghost Boys by Jewell Parker Rhodes (Why KS3 Students Should Read This Powerful Story)
Ghost Boys by Jewell Parker Rhodes is a powerful, thought-provoking story that tackles racism, injustice and courage in a way that KS3 students can connect with. This review explores why it’s such an important read for Years 7–9 and how it builds empathy, understanding and discussion.
Book Review: Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer (Why KS3 Students Shouldn’t Miss This Clever, Action-Packed Adventure)
Looking for a clever, fast-paced adventure to hook KS3 readers? Artemis Fowl is packed with action, wit and a brilliant anti-hero at the centre of a magical tech-fuelled world. Here’s why it’s a top pick for Years 7–9.