Year 8 recommended reading - September 2021

Recommended reading list for Year 8 These books are highly recommended reading for over the Summer holidays.

Whether you like histories, sci-fi, thrillers or books about nature, we’ve got you covered.

Historical books When The Sky Falls – Phil Earle A powerful tale set during WWII which follows a troubled boy as he discovers his growing love for an unlikely ally King of Shadows – Susan Cooper A historical fiction novel describing a young actor's travels to the year 1599.

Sci-Fi / Fantasy books There May be a Castle – Piers Torday A remarkable short story about love, loss and the power of the imagination My Sword Hand is Singing – Marcus Sedgwick An original interpretation of the ancient myth, this story follows a father and son partnership of vampire hunters.

The Fire Eaters – David Almond Set in Northumberland during the Cuban Missile Crisis, this book tells the story of a young boy who finds magic in an unusual place.

Star Girl – Jerry Spinelli A young, beautiful and mysterious girl enters the life of a young, shy boy, changing it forever.

A Monster Calls – Patrick Ness A 13 year old boy has recurring nightmares about a monster that wants to tell him stories.

North Child – Edith Pattou Based on a Nordic folk tale, this magical story follows a girl and a bear’s wintry quest

Mysteries, Thrillers and horrors The Colour of the Sun – David Almond The dreamlike tale of a boy rediscovering joy and beauty in life, even amid sorrow.

Cherub: The Recruit – Robert Muchamore An action-packed thriller following the CHERUB branch of British Intelligence.

A Song for Ella Grey – David Almond A dramatic story about best friends who get separated.

London Eye Mystery – Siobhan Dowd The story of how Ted, a boy with Asperger syndrome, solves the mystery of their cousin’s disappearance.

Where the World Ends – Geraldine McCaughrean Set in 1727, this book tells the story of a group of men and boys left stranded on an island.

Books from different cultures / perspectives The Apple Tart of Hope – Sarah Moore Fitzgerald A moving and poignant tale about the power of friendship The Skin I’m In – Sharon G Flake The story of a seventh grade student suffering from low self-esteem due to her skin colour.

Freak the Mighty – Rodman Philbrick An unlikely pair become close friends and take on the bullies.

West Hill School recommends…

Book of the week ‘The Wolves of Willoughby Chase’ by Joan Aiken.

Set in an alternative history timeline in 1832, with King James III on the throne, Britain is ravaged by wolves who have migrated through a newly-opened Channel Tunnel.