Benji's Emerald King (The Woodland Explorers)

Benji's Emerald King (The Woodland Explorers) is the first book in what is set to be a very exciting series. Join Benji and his friends in their secret club, The Woodland Explorers Club. Benji lives and goes to school near Willow Wish Woods; the same woods that his Gramps grew up in, and who has many exciting and enchanting tales to share with Benji.

One day as Benji and his friends are in the woods during forest school, they hear an unusual sound. Following the tune through a clearing they discover it is coming from the biggest tree they have ever seen - an enormous oak tree. Unfortunately, the tree appears sad. As each day passes, the children return to the tree and discover its broken branch, litter and unusual markings on the bark. It calls for one thing.. A secret club to uncover why the beautiful tree is so sad and what is destroying the area. How can they help restore the wonderful wildlife to the woods Gramps speaks so fondly of?

This is a well written text for developing fluent readers. A key element in the structure is that each character is carefully described at the start of the story, allowing children to become fully engaged and aware of the characters before the story begins developing. All the pages are supported with clear illustrations which aid the reader with their understanding. 

This is a great story for children with lots of opportunity to develop their comprehension and understanding of nature and the environment. The book also includes extra woodland facts throughout the story - an engaging part which makes the reader feel included in the Woodland Gang! I can't wait to see what happens in book 2!

112 pages / Reviewed by Maria Faithorn, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 5+

Benji's Emerald King (The Woodland Explorers) is fully immersed in nature. All the additional details about tree etc would really engage children's imagination. A book for those who are exploring the world around them.

I will be using this book with my Year 1 children (age 5 and 6) as a lead into naming all the trees around school (a national curriculum requirement). They will enjoy the facts and the magic. Children love making up stories and this book will give them so many ideas for their own stories.

112 pages / Reviewed by Jen Bevan, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 5+