The Literacy Classroom

Jill Tomlinson is best known for the classic 'The Owl Who is Afraid of the Dark'. However, she has written a number of other stories, many featuring young animals who encounter uncertainty and challenge as part of their growing up. Through entertaining adventures, each of the animals reach their own understanding and resolution. Each story is perfect for enabling young readers to articulate their own fears.

Kes Gray was noted by the Independent as one of the top 10 children's authors in 2003. His 'Daisy' books are ideal for introducing children to longer chapter books. On his own website he states that he likes books to have 'fizz'. Each book deals with a distinct theme. They also have a single point of view facilitating comprehension as children develop their reading stamina and begin to read longer texts.

Oliver Jeffers' first book 'How to catch a star', was published by Harper Collins in 2004. It was shortlisted for the Booktrust Early Years Award for Best New Illustrator and went on to win a merit award at the CBI/Bisto Book of the Year Awards. He has continued to publish breathtakingly beautiful stories with his own unique style.

Colin McNaughton's books are full of fun. He has written and illustrated over 70 children's books. He is well known for his Preston Pig books which are very popular with younger children. However, his pirate stories will challenge children in year 2. Children will get to know and love Captain Abdul and his antics.

Ronda Armitage wrote the much loved 'The Lighthouse Keeper's Lunch'. This has become a children's classic. Since its publication she has gone on to write 8 further stories about Mr and Mrs Grinling and their pet cat Hamish. Each of the books is illustrated by her husband David. Ideal for looking at story plot and how authors develop characters.

Wiinnie the Witch was created by Valerie Thomas and all the Winnie picture books are written by her. However, Winnie also appears as the protagonist in longer read aloud books which are ideal for bridging the gap between picture books and longer chapter books. These particular Winnie books are written by Laura Owen. As with the picture books they have all been illustrated by Korky Paul and as such children will delight in reading longer stories about a well known character.

Katie Morag has become a popular visitor to year 2 providing delightful stories to be studied in English as well as cross curricular links with geography. Katie is a determined and stubborn little girl who often ends up in considerable trouble but her determination always helps her to find her way out of her difficulties. These are brilliant stories for looking at setting and how author's create a sense of place.

David Roberts in Dirty Bertie has produced a series of books which are perfect for children who are beginning to develop their reading stamina. They are perfect for introducing longer texts to children. Each book comprises of several short stories about Bertie, who has shockingly dirty habits, from nose picking to weeing on the flowerbed. He will appeal to children's sense of humour and help to foster a love of reading.

The Dr Xargle books feature an alien perspective on human civilization, especially in the life of British children and their families. These humorous books will delight children as the aliens learn about human life through lectures and field trips. Lovely play on language in particular the use of nouns as the aliens make up their own names for babies, cars, dogs and cats to name but a few. Each of the stories is illustrated by Tony Ross.