Tom Gates Extra Special Treats

Tom Gates has hopes for special treats, but everyday school and family life provide plenty of complications before anything can go according to plan. Liz Pichon's illustrated diary style gives the story a friendly, energetic voice, mixing drawings with comic observations. Readers can enjoy familiar childhood ambitions while finding humour in Tom's excuses, reactions and the unexpectedly difficult business of getting what he thinks he deserves.

Age suitability and learning: Primary (6-8), Older children (9-12). The illustrations and conversational voice offer developing readers a welcoming route into a longer book, while older children can enjoy the humour and character details. Following the diary supports reading stamina, inference and understanding of perspective, with familiar situations prompting conversation about friendships and choices.

Available at QT Toys in Battersea.