#ratskullrodents
“This action-packed story is beautifully told, presenting a delightful, vivid adventure with rich language and imagery.”
Victoria Atkin, Literacy Lead, Bell Lane Primary School
When Gus the cat finds out his beloved owner has had something very sacred of his go missing, Gus smells foul play and is ready to investigate. What Gus isn’t quite ready for is just how difficult and downright dangerous it will be to get it back…
Or listen to James read Chapter 1 (with a little help from his cat, Luna) below:
eBook now only 99p!
A mystery/adventure story for young readers
If you’re aged 7-11 and like adventure and mystery stories that involve courageous cats, revolting rats and gullible guinea pigs, all within a book that is going to keep you hooked, but challenge your reading, then Raid of the Ratskull Rodents is the book for you.
A book that helps readers to learn new words
Raid of the Ratskull Rodents is a book full of different and challenging vocabulary, but rather than let readers be baffled by this, I have highlighted certain vocabulary in bold, then provided definitions in footnotes at the bottom of the page. I hope this will be a feature that young readers will really appreciate.
Why did I write it?
Being a full-time Primary School teacher, I know exactly how to challenge and engage Primary School children’s reading. It has also been a long-time ambition of mine to write a children’s book. I always knew that I wanted to write a book which children would enjoy, but also feel challenged by. I also knew, through my teaching experience that one of the things children need most throughout their reading is exposure to different and challenging vocabulary.
Where can I buy it from?
Raid of the Ratskull Rodents is now in stock in Northern bookshops such as Through the Wardrobe Bookshop (Mirfield), Castlegate Books (Knaresborough), Once Upon a Time Bookshop (Alston), The Guisborough Bookshop and Book Corner (Saltburn). However it can be ordered into ANY bookshop.
It is now available on Amazon in paperback and ebook formats and can be ordered through Waterstones.
Are you a shop, a school or a library? The book can be ordered through sites such as Ingram, Bertrams and Gardners.
I am a bookshop, library or school. Can I know more?
Below you can find a PDF with more information about my book and how to order to it.
Can I meet you?
I do frequently return to the UK and may be available for school author visits, events organised by bookshops, libraries and literature festivals, so don’t hesitate to ask when I’m next back.
I am however readily available for Skype sessions and am happy to talk to schools or classes about my top tips for writing and publishing a book.
What do readers think of it?
“For people who love cats and detectives. I enjoyed the classic cat and rat chases. “
Harrison Clemie, 10 years old, Scotton Lingerfield Primary School
“Raid of the Ratskull Rodents is an exceptional choice fit for all ages. Jam-packed with adventure and description, fun and excitement.“
Abigail Parkin, 11 years old , Mirfield Free Grammar School
“Raid of the Ratskull Rodents is a rare book that can engage readers of almost any age.”
Peter Anstee, author of ‘Differentiation Pocketbook’ and ‘Independent Learning Pocketboook’
“I am learning lots of new words and the characters are a little bit mean which is funny. I am curious like Ember so I enjoy reading about their adventures.”
Elina Reiter, 7 years old, Manor Lodge School
“A tale infused with rich vocabulary, which, when combined with the genius footnotes will extend the range of any young reader.”
Matt O’Grady, Head teacher, West Horndon Primary School
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James Steptowe 