Beanstalk Brilliant Books - Diaries

Dear Diary: Books that feel like friends!

This month we have chosen a selection of diary-style books which we think are Beanstalk Brilliant! These types of books are an engaging way to bring stories to life, as they blend humour, everyday challenges, and personal thoughts in a relatable format. 

Several of the books we have selected showcase relatable young characters appealing to a broad range of children, and the style in which they are written is perfect for shared reading and enticing reluctant readers. Mixing doodles and fun illustrations with handwritten fonts and informal language makes the reading experience feel more personal and interactive. We have also included some fun and factual historical diaries which will enable children to find out about the past through the lens of a fictional character.

All the titles chosen allow readers to step directly into the shoes of characters who share similar feelings, frustrations, and joys, encouraging empathy and connection. Readers can explore themes like friendship, family dynamics, school adventures, and the ups and downs of growing up in a format that feels like a real-life glimpse into someone else's world.

About the book 

The Cheat Book by Ramzee

Kamal is better than anyone else in his school at fading into the background. When you're a refugee and you've started a new school three times in as many years, you learn to keep your head down.

But, after a major puke incident in front of the whole school, being invisible is no longer an option. And when Kamal finds a mysterious cheat book in the library that promises to help him gain popularity, he sees a chance to finally make his mark.

This hilarious guide to being 'too cool for school' (or just cool enough) from brilliant author-illustrator RAMZEE has black-and-white illustrations throughout.

Download these activities, including comic strip templates, discussion questions and diary pages.

Equally brilliant beanstalk books written as diaries

Buy any of these books here and Coram Beanstalk receive a 10% donation