A quick round up of the books I am looking forward to in 2013 for the children’s book fans out there. For some reason my picture downloader isn’t behaving, apologies for the lack of book covers. I’ll add them when I can.

It’s looking like a good spring so far, with some strong debuts from Irish writers and some interesting picture books also.

Jan/Feb

Curse of Kings by Alex Barclay
A very good historical fantasy – which I’ve just reviewed for the Irish Independent – once the review is published I will post it here. I liked it very much.
The book is out in late January.

Captain Underpants Number 10
Yeah, the great Captain is back.
If you child loves the Wimpy Kid, try these – they are excellent and so funny.

Queenie by Jacqueline Wilson
Set in a 1950s children’s hospital, my daughter (and I) are very excited about this one.

Back to Blackbrick by Sarah Moore Fitzgerald
I haven’t read this one yet, but my friend in children’s books, the lovely Kim Harte rates it highly and I look forward to reading it.

Darren Shan has about 200 Zom-B books out this year – the first in January. (It’s actually 4 I think. Maybe 6.)

March/April

Bye, Bye Baby by Sheena Dempsey
Conor Hackett from Walker Books says the finished edition looks ‘beautiful’ and I can’t wait to see this debut picture book from a highly talented Irish picture book maker.

Brave Beast by Chris Judge
Chris is back with a fab new Beast quest.

Ask Eve by Judi Curtin
A special World Book Day book featuring Judi’s much loved new character. Apparently there are not one but two new stories in this book – excellent!

Derek Landy is sneaking in a Skulduggery Pleasant 7.5:
Tanith Low in the Maleficent Seven (28th March)

And Eoin Colfer’s brand new series, WARP is out on 11th April. I’m very much looking forward to reading that one.

May/June/July

Magic Ink by Steve Cole
I’m a big fan of Steve’s and this looks like a great one for age 7+.

Stormbringers by Philippa Gregory
The second of her historical YAs – the first was excellent.

The Moon and More by Sarah Dessen, in which Emeline struggles to balance the value of what she has against the allure of the wider world. I adore Sarah Dessen. I found this on an American website, so the publication date may be for the USA.

August/September

Patrick Ness has a new children’s novel out in Sept – title to be confirmed – I adore Patrick’s books.

Ask Amy Green: Wedding Belles – by Sarah Webb
Yes, the very last in the series – book 6 – is published in September – the end of an era for me!

And there will hopefully be a brand new Judi Curtin also in September.

Happy reading!

Sarah XXX