Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them: The Original Screenplay by J K Rowling ($27.95)
Now the theatrical release of the movie is out, it’s no surprise to see the screenplay as well. Written by Rowling herself, adapted from her own text. Like Harry Potter and the Cursed Child earlier this year, which I have written about, this might be the first screenplay kids sit down to read. Exposure to a diverse range of texts can only be a good thing in my book.
Gemina – The Illuminae Files #2 by Aime Kaufman and Jay Kristoff
Like Jon Klassen’s latest in my picture book post, I already have a copy of Gemina secreted away in my cupboard to give to Keira. But if I’m being totally honest, I’ll admit that as soon as she’s finished I’ll be plucking it out of her hand to read. Illuminae was terrifically original, pacy and exciting, and my hopes are high for its follow-up!
Here I Stand: Stories that Speak for Freedom, Amnesty International UK ($21.25)
Here’s a brief description of Here I Stand:
A selection of the world’s finest writers for young people – in conjunction with Amnesty International UK – explore the rights and freedoms still lacking in today’s society, covering issues such as gender equality, race hatred, surveillance, identity and freedom of speech. Contributors include: Tony Birch, John Boyne, Sita Brahmachari, Kevin Brooks, Kate Charlesworth, Sarah Crossan, Neil Gaiman, Jack Gantos, Ryan Gattis, Matt Haig, Frances Hardinge, Jackie Kay, AL Kennedy, Liz Kessler, Elizabeth Laird, Amy Leon, Sabrina Mahfouz, Chelsea Manning, Chibundu Onuzo, Bali Rai, Chris Riddell, Mary and Brian Talbot, Christie Watson and Tim Wynne- Jones.
It’s an important topic and look at that list of talented names – including Australian Tony Birch. If you’re unsure whether your child is ready for it or not, I’d suggest casting your eye over the comprehensive teaching notes. (Making it a good title for the classroom, too.)
The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas by John Boyne and Oliver Jeffers ($27.95)
If your child is already well into the young adult reading demographic, chances are they’ve already read The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas, whether out of interest or at school. If not, and you’d like to gift them something lovely, then consider this special anniversary edition, illustrated by Oliver Jeffers (making his second appearance in this Christmas series). It’s a contemporary classic.
Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs ($15.95)
I’m one of *those* parents who prefers kids to read the book ahead of seeing its movie adaptation. Sounds good in theory, doesn’t it? Virtuous, tough-but-fair? Well, here’s a secret: it rarely happens. At least until now. I put my foot down in this case. I know a lot of people who’s opinion I trust who’ve enjoyed this a lot. Seeing it’s become an international best-seller, I’m not surprised.
