How Book Censorship Creeps into UK Schools and How to Respond | Series 1, Episode 38
Season 1, Episode 38 of the School Reading List podcast. New book post, 30 great books for February 2026 and how book censorship is creeping into UK schools.
Recommended reading books for primary & secondary aged children in the UK
Javi De Castro is a Spanish illustrator and comic artist known for his work in graphic novels and comics. He has contributed to various publications and anthologies, and his illustrations have appeared in both print and digital media. De Castro is the creator of the graphic novel The Eyes, which was published in English by Europe Comics in 2017. His work often explores themes of mystery and the supernatural, utilising a distinctive visual style.
In addition to his solo projects, De Castro has collaborated with other writers and artists on a range of comic book projects. He has been recognised in the Spanish comics community, receiving the “Best New Talent” award at the 2016 Barcelona International Comic Fair. De Castro continues to produce comics and illustrations for a variety of audiences, with The Eyes (Europe Comics, 2017) marking a notable milestone in his international publishing career.
Season 1, Episode 38 of the School Reading List podcast. New book post, 30 great books for February 2026 and how book censorship is creeping into UK schools.
January 2026’s book club includes titles by Smriti Halls, Nicola Davies, Ella McLeod, Javi De Castro, Craig Steele, Rowan Foxwood, Sufiya Ahmed, Rebecca Orwin, Emma Green, C. M. Lewis, Steve Cole, Monique Turner, Katie Bernet, Sarah Brill, and Sam Prentice-Jones.
Here’s our selection of top new titles coming out in spring 2026. These reading recommendations include picture books, early and middle-grade fiction; young adult novels and non-fiction.
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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