Do Children Read More Than We Think? | Series 1, Episode 29
Season 1, Episode 29 of the School Reading List podcast. New book post, 30 great books for April 2025 and Do Children Read More Than We Think?
Recommended reading books for primary & secondary aged children in the UK
Jamie Hammond is a British author–illustrator and children’s book designer. He works in trade publishing and has served as an art director in UK children’s fiction, alongside developing his own illustrated stories for middle-grade readers.
Hammond’s debut as author–illustrator, Grumpfort, was published by Usborne in February 2025. Written for roughly ages 8–12, the fast-paced, heavily illustrated novel follows Mo, an inexperienced “Warden” whose monster-hunting duties lead him into a conspiracy surrounding the fortress of Grumpfort. The book combines comic adventure with accessible page design to support developing and confident readers in upper primary and early secondary settings.
Following the success of his debut, Hammond announced a companion adventure, Dragonflare, an illustrated novel set in the same world and positioned for readers eight and up. Professional profiles also note his continuing work in children’s book design, bringing experience of layouts, typography and branding to series development.
Hammond’s public author materials emphasise themes of courage, friendship and inclusivity, and the value of seeing a diverse cast centred in humorous fantasy. He is represented by literary agent Lydia Silver.
Selected works: Grumpfort (Usborne, 2025); Dragonflare (forthcoming).
Season 1, Episode 29 of the School Reading List podcast. New book post, 30 great books for April 2025 and Do Children Read More Than We Think?
March 2025’s book club recommendations feature titles by Enomwoyi Damali, Swapna Haddow, Jamie Hammond, Nathanael Lessore, Tony Russell, Ally Sherrick, Sarah Harrison, Jess French, Robert Muchamore, Anthony Kessel, Philippa Gregory & R.M. Gray.
Here’s our selection of top new titles coming out in Spring 2025. These reading recommendations include picture books, early and middle-grade fiction; young adult novels and non-fiction.
Disclosure: If you buy books linked to our site, we may earn a commission from Bookshop.org, whose fees support independent bookshops, or Waterstones.com, or Blackwells.co.uk.
Keep up to date with our email newsletter and our latest social media posts about reading, children's books and literacy.
Our latest reading national curriculum year group recommended reading lists:
Picture books for the under 5s | Books for Reception | Books for Year 1 | Books for Year 2 | Books for Year 3 | Books for Year 4 | Books for Year 5 | Books for Year 6 | Books for Year 7 | Books for Year 8 | Books for Year 9 | Books for Year 10 | Books for Year 11