Patron of Reading Blog: Winter Reads

 

Written by our current Patron of Reading, Mike Revell

What a year this has been, eh? I’m sorry I haven’t been able to visit King’s in person. But before you all head home for the school holiday, I thought I would show you some of the best wintry, Christmas, and festively magical books I’ve enjoyed this year.

Whether you’re looking for something to enjoy as a family, or you want a moving, magical adventure all to yourself, there’s lots here to dive into.

The world might have changed a lot in 2020, but it hasn’t stopped our fantastic authors from telling stories. And stories, I think, are more important now than ever.

Check out these great reads – and let me know what you think!

For younger readers (and all the family!)

One of my favourite festive books is the charming story of Winston the mouse, in How Winston Delivered Christmas by Alex T Smith.

This is an extra-Christmassy book that all the family can enjoy together, because in every chapter there’s an activity to try. This includes things like writing a letter to Father Christmas, and even creating decorations to hang on the tree!

You’ll love the artwork and the adventures that Winston gets up to as he tries to deliver a Christmas letter that didn’t make it to Santa.

For a bit of festive fun

If you’re looking for an engrossing, fun-filled book that’s full of energy and friendship, Tinsel by Sibéal Pounder is a great book to read with some mince pies.

Sibéal is the author of the hilarious Witch Wars and Bad Mermaids books, and there’s a familiar sense of wonder in this cracking adventure! 

For a wondrous dose of wintry magic

One of the best books I’ve read this year is The Midnight Guardians by Ross Montgomery. If you’ve ever had imaginary friends (mine was a squirrel called Multi… for multi coloured. Yep.) then you’ll love this.

This story follows Col, who is evacuated during the Second World War. But when Col learns his sister is in danger back in London, he sets out on a mission to save her – complete with a tiger, a badger and a knight!

For a twist on an old classic

The Miracle on Ebenezer Street by Catherine Doyle will take you on an enchanting adventure with three Christmases: past, present and future.

A Christmas Carol is a timeless classic that has had its fair share of modern takes – but you’ve not read it like this before!

There’s something about this that feels just right. It’s charming and merry, but thoroughly modern. This is a book that can be read and reread for years to come.

For spooky winter-time chills

If you like your stories a little spookier, then try The Ghost of Gosswater by Lucy Strange. This gothic tale is brought to life by vibrant language, beautiful locations, and a compelling mystery.

Dive into this gripping book and you’ll enjoy investigating family secrets, and journeying to the eerie Skelter Island – where ghosts are rumoured to visit the living!