In this episode, we explore some of the best books for children aged between around 7-9 years old, and look at some of the popular themes that bring children back to them again and again. 

We also talk to Dan Northover, Senior Primary Lecturer from The University of the West of England in Bristol, Year 6 Teacher, Bewick Abel Thompson, and bestselling author, Gill Lewis. 

We kicked things off by chatting to Dan again in the Spellbound studio…

Episode 5: Great Books For Children Aged 7-9 Years

UWE primary literacy expert, Jane Carter returns to discuss some of the best early chapter books for children (around 6+ yrs), when children are ready to read on their own. Melissa and Jane talk about the importance of reading for pleasure and of course, share some of their favourite books. 

Melissa also visit author and Guardian illustrator and cartoonist, Joe Berger, in his Bristol studio and welcomes children's literary scout, John McClay, into the studio for a chat.

Episode 4: Chapter Books for 6+

Melissa welcomes UWE primary specialist, Jane Carter, back into the Spellbound studio. They talk about the importance books play in all aspect of (primary) school life - from preparing them for what to expect and beyond. 

Melissa also pops along to independent book store, Max Minervas in Bristol and chats to children's author, Rachel Bright, who has written several books for children, including Love Monster, The Lion Inside and The Koala Who Could. Rachel is also the winner of the Evening Standard Oscar's Book Prize and the Sainsbury's Book Award.

Episode 3: Supporting Children Starting School

Melissa welcomes University of the West of England (UWE) Senior Primary Lecturer (and all round kids' lit expert), Jane Carter into the Spellbound studio to talk about some of the best picture books for young children, aged around 3 to 5 years old. 

They talk about the impact of reading on health and wellbeing, types of books to read at this age and some of their favourites. 

Melissa also heads off to London to chat to wonderful children's illustrator, Kaye Umansky - Kaye reads a few excerpts from some of her books for younger children.

Episode 02: Exploring Picture Books

In this pilot episode, Melissa chats to children’s literature expert, Lucy Shepherd; founder of Barefoot Books, Tessa Strickland and Director of the Bath Children’s Literature Festival, Gill McClay.

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