The Reading Framework | Series 1, Episode 13
Season 1, Episode 13 of the School Reading List podcast. New book post, 30 great books for August 2023 and the DfE’s reading framework updates.
Recommended reading books for primary & secondary aged children in the UK
Sarah Asuquo is a UK children’s author and English teacher whose books address wellbeing, self-esteem and family change for primary readers. She writes picture books and fiction that combine clear, accessible text with practical prompts for discussion at home and in classrooms.
Her debut picture book, Shine, illustrated by Nadia Fisher and published by Scholastic, encourages children to value their differences and develop confidence. It was acquired by Scholastic UK in 2023 and is listed by libraries and retailers as a KS1–KS2 read-aloud with follow-up activities.
Asuquo’s second picture book, Roots of Love: Families Change, Love Remains (Scholastic, 2024), follows a child navigating parents’ separation, focusing on reassurance and the continuity of family love. The book is discussed in a Scholastic author Q&A and is catalogued with UK trade identifiers (ISBN 9780702324901).
Alongside picture books, Asuquo has written for older readers. Her YA title Breeze (2020) is available as an e-book and explores adolescence through a contemporary, high-interest narrative.
Asuquo contributes articles for parents and teachers on supporting children’s confidence and back-to-school transitions, drawing on classroom experience as well as her work with young people. Her public author pages and publisher materials describe an ongoing focus on inclusive stories and practical themes for schools and families.
Shine (Scholastic, 2023; ISBN 9780702324871) and Roots of Love (Scholastic, 2024; ISBN 9780702324901) are available in UK editions.
Season 1, Episode 13 of the School Reading List podcast. New book post, 30 great books for August 2023 and the DfE’s reading framework updates.
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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