Cosmic Creatures: The Friendly Firecat

This is another book in the Cosmic Creatures series by Tom Huddleston. In this story Charlie, her brother and her robot friend, Random go on holiday to visit Charlie's aunt on the planet Vela. Vela isn't the prettiest of planets but is home to the most amazing Cosmic Creatures - the Friendly Firecat! When Charlie sees them for the first time she is amazed, that is until the poachers arrive and try to take the cats away. It is up to Charlie and Random to save the day, the planet and most importantly the Firecats.

I think that this new series will be a brilliant addition to a child's collection, especially if they enjoy the Zoe's Rescue Zoo series - particularly as the illustrations are by the same artist, Sophy Williams. The story is bright and easy to follow, which would be great for new, confident readers just starting out chapter books. The story touches on friendships and what is right and wrong. I would definitely keep an eye out for these becoming popular…

128 Pages / Reviewed by Lauren Maidman

Suggested Reading Age 7+

Charlie and her parents are the first humans on planet Vela. There are plenty of unknown animals and plants to study. With the help of her best friend, Random, who happens to be a robot, Charlie get caught up in some exciting new adventures.

What I love about these animal stories is that they are a great step up from picture chapter books, for confident readers Ages 7+, to read alone or great bedtime stories to read to children. These books are well written with all the key English elements that are taught to KS2 children. When hearing children reading aloud, there are plenty of opportunities to spot word classes and punctuation.

With 112 pages they are not too daunting for first chapter book readers. These will fly off the shelves in our school library! Look out for The Runaway Rumblebear, also in this series. 

112 pages / Reviewed by Carol Wright, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 7+