The Fourth Bookmark

In this action packed episode, Krish dives into the thrilling dystopian world of The Maze Runner by James Dashner. Waking up with no memories in a mysterious place, surrounded by towering walls and a deadly, changing maze, this story is full of danger, suspense and shocking twists. Krish shares why this book is such a page turner, explores the characters and explains why reading the book before watching the film is a must.

Krish is then joined by award winning school librarian, author and podcaster Lucas Maxwell for an inspiring conversation about libraries, reading and helping children fall in love with books. From book recommendations to library clubs and surprising facts about what librarians really do, this chat is packed with brilliant insights for young readers.

Key topics covered in this episode:

• Why libraries are so important for children and communities
• How librarians recommend the right books
• How libraries can be welcoming, fun and creative spaces
• Fantastic book recommendations for every type of reader
• Why The Maze Runner keeps readers hooked from start to finish

Whether you love fast paced adventures, enjoy discovering new books or want to know more about how libraries help readers like you, this episode is not to be missed.

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Podcast Booklings Chat https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/booklings-chat/id1808171372

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“Reading for pleasure is the single biggest indicator of future success.” - Rob Biddulph, Author & Illustrator.

In this exciting episode, Krish explores the magical world of Magyk, the first book in Angie Sage’s Septimus Heap series. Set on a snowy night and filled with secrets, magic and danger, Magyk pulls you into a world where nothing is quite what it seems. With powerful wizards, dark villains and some very strange creatures, this story is packed with surprises.

Krish is then joined by bestselling author and illustrator Rob Biddulph for a thoughtful conversation about books illustration and creativity.

Key topics covered in this conversation:

• Why book covers and illustrations play such a powerful role in reading
• How drawing and comics can help children tell their own stories
• Where story ideas come from and how to grow them into full books
• Why reading for pleasure is so important for children’s futures
• How books build curiosity imagination and confidence

Whether you love drawing, dream of writing your own stories or are searching for your next magical read, this episode is a great listen!

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Website https://www.robbiddulph.com/  

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/rbiddulph/

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Welcome to 2026 and the National Year of Reading in the UK. Krish kicks off the year with a brilliant spotlight on Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer, the story of a 12-year-old criminal mastermind who discovers that fairies are real and they are armed with high tech weaponry. With underground police forces, fairy gold and unforgettable characters, this book is perfect for anyone who thinks books aren't for them, as this action-packed adventure proves that reading can be as exciting as any video game or movie.

Then things go global, as Krish is joined by four book-loving friends from around the world: Julian from Australia, Vivvaan from India, Joep from the Netherlands and Harry from the UK, for an honest, fun conversation about:

• What they like to do in their free time besides reading
• Why reading matters (even if you would rather be gaming or playing sports)
• The books that got them hooked on reading
• Where they get their book recommendations from
• What they would say to fellow children who think reading isn't for them
• And their ultimate book recommendations.

If you love books, or trying to get back into reading or think you might not be “a reader” at all, this episode is here to prove that there is a book out there waiting to blow your mind. Enjoy the episode!

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https://www.instagram.com/vivie.reads/

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“The classics matter but there’s a whole world of brilliant,diverse stories being written today and every child deserves to discover them” - Justin Somper, Author of The Pirate Academy Series.

In this exciting holiday episode, Krish dives into the thrilling world of The Pirate Academy, Justin Somper’s action-packed series set in a school where courage, loyalty and quick thinking are tested every day. From daring training missions to unforgettable friendships, Krish shares what makes the series such a gripping read and why it’s perfect for readers who love fast-paced stories with heart.

Krish is joined by Justin Somper for an inspiring conversation about writing stories that truly connect with young readers. Justin reflects on travelling the world visiting schools, how you can instantly tell when a school values reading, and why libraries and school librarians play such a vital role in helping children find books they’ll love. They also talk about what children everywhere have in common as readers, the power of choice, and how seeing parents enjoy books can spark a lifelong love of reading.

Key topics covered in this episode:

• What makes The Pirate Academy such a compelling adventure series
• What school visits reveal about reading habits around the world
• Why children are honest, curious readers who know what excites them
• The importance of libraries, librarians and reading role models
• How seeing parents enjoy books can spark a lifelong love of reading

Whether you are a passionate reader, a parent or someone searching for the next great book, this episode is a must listen!

Follow Justin Somper

Website https://justinsomper.com/

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/justinsomper/

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In this episode, Krish dives into Rowan of Rin by Emily Rodda, a powerful adventure about courage, destiny and discovering strength you never knew you had. Following quiet, reluctant hero Rowan as he joins a dangerous mountain quest, the story explores bravery in its truest form: feeling scared, but choosing to take the next step anyway.

Krish also sits down with Sian Allan from The Smith Family, an education charity in Australia dedicated to helping children build confidence, curiosity and a lifelong love of reading. In this conversation, Sian shares why early literacy matters, how families can make reading playful and meaningful and why stories shape the way children understand themselves and the world.

Key topics covered in this episode:

• ​Rowan of Rin, a magical adventure about courage, prophecy and unexpected heroes
• ​How early reading experiences shape confidence, language and learning
• ​Practical ways families can make story time exciting and enjoyable
• ​The power of stories to help children explore new worlds and ideas
• ​How The Smith Family supports young readers through long-term educational programmes

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Website: https://www.thesmithfamily.com.au/

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In this episode, Krish journeys into The City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau, the gripping first book in the Books of Ember series. Set in an underground city built to shelter humanity after a global disaster, the story follows Lina Mayfleet and Doon Harrow as they uncover a long-lost message and risk everything to save their dying world. It is a story of courage, curiosity and hope and a reminder that asking questions can change everything.

Krish also chats with Sophie Hiscock from First Story UK, a brilliant organisation helping young people discover the power of their own voices through creative writing. Sophie shares how storytelling can build confidence, why finding your unique voice matters and how writing and reading together can open up endless possibilities.

Key topics covered in this episode:

• The City of Ember, a thrilling story of mystery, courage, and discovery
• How First Story UK empowers young people through creative writing
• Why every child’s voice deserves to be heard
• Tips for starting your own writing journey
• The importance of creativity and imagination in an age of AI

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Website: https://www.firststory.org.uk

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“If you’re enjoying a book, that’s all that matters and if you don’t, it’s okay to put it down and try something new.” – A. F. Steadman

In this heartfelt episode, Krish gallops back into the breathtaking world of Skandar but this time, it’s to talk about the epic conclusion of A. F. Steadman’s spellbinding series with Skandar and the Spirit War. From wild unicorns and elemental magic to friendship, bravery and betrayal, Krish unpacks why this series is one of his all-time favourites and why Skandar and The Spirit War is his favourite of all five books.

Krish is joined by A.F. Steadman herself for an exciting conversation about how she reimagined unicorns as fierce, dangerous creatures, why she wanted to show the real bond between Skandar and his sister Kenna, and how the series grows darker as the characters mature. They also talk about her brand-new book The First Unicorn Rider, a prequel set a thousand years before Skandar’s story, following the very first unicorn rider, George Penhaligon.

Key topics covered in this episode:

• Skandar and the Spirit War, the epic finale of an unforgettable fantasy series
• How A. F. Steadman reinvented unicorns as fierce, untamed creatures

• Sibling love, loyalty and courage in the face of darkness
• Behind-the-scenes insights into writing twists, magic and emotion
• Introducing The First Unicorn Rider, a brand-new prequel adventure

Whether you’re a long-time fan or a new reader discovering the series for the first time, this episode celebrates the power of imagination, friendship and growing up with stories that shape who we are.

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Website https://afsteadman.com/
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“Being read to as a small child and reading yourself when you're older can help you be healthier as an adult and even live longer.” – Franziska Liebig, Arts Council England

In this exciting episode, Krish dives into Alex Rider: Stormbreaker by Anthony Horowitz, a fast-paced spy adventure filled with gadgets, danger and daring missions. When fourteen-year-old Alex discovers his uncle’s death was not an accident, he is thrown into a world of secret agents, powerful billionaires and high stakes missions that test his courage at every turn.

Krish also talks with Franziska Liebig from Arts Council England, the organisation dedicated to ensuring everyone can experience the magic of books and creativity. Fran shares how reading can change lives by improving wellbeing, sparking imagination and helping every child find their own story. Together, they explore the power of books to inspire empathy, confidence and lifelong curiosity.

Key topics covered in this episode:

• Alex Rider: Stormbreaker, thrilling read for young spies and adventurers
• How reading builds creativity, imagination and wellbeing
• Why every kind of reading counts, from comics to novels
• The importance of seeing yourself represented in stories
• Exciting reading initiatives ahead of the National Year of Reading 2026

Follow Arts Council England
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Website: https://www.artscouncil.org.uk

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Website: https://www.anthonyhorowitz.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AnthonyHorowitzAuthor

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In this episode, Krish explores Dragon Born by Struan Murray, the first book in a captivating new fantasy series filled with dragons, danger and discovery. The story follows twelve-year old Alex Evans, a girl who has always played it safe until one extraordinary day she learns that she is not entirely human but a dragon in disguise. Taken to the hidden island of Skralla, Alex must learn to accept her true nature while confronting a dark force that threatens to begin a war between humans and dragons.

Krish also speaks with Struan Murray, the award-winning author of Orphans of the Tide and a master of mythic storytelling. Author Struan shares how a chance meeting with a so called “dragon scholar” inspired Dragon Born, what makes dragons such lasting symbols of wonder and why fantasy stories help young readers explore bravery, identity and belonging. Together they talk about the joy of imagination and how stories in every form can awaken a lifelong love of reading.

Key themes discussed in this episode:

• The first spark behind Dragon Born and the unusual Oxford encounter that started it all
• Why dragons continue to fascinate readers across every generation
• How fantasy helps children explore real emotions and courage
• The importance of reading freely from books to comics to games
• The comfort of rereading favourites and the excitement of discovering something new
• The one book Struan would give to his younger self and why

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Website: https://www.struanmurray.com

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In this episode Krish dives into Northern Lights (The Golden Compass in the US), the first book in Philip Pullman’s legendary His Dark Materials trilogy. Packed with daemons, armoured bears, witches and a mysterious substance called Dust, this thrilling adventure follows Lyra Belacqua as she uncovers dangerous secrets and sets out on a daring journey to rescue her kidnapped friend.

Krish also sits down with Emily Drabble, Head of Children’s Books at BookTrust UK, the UK’s largest reading charity. Emily shares how BookTrust inspires children and families to discover the joy of reading, why it’s vital to start reading from birth, and how diverse and inclusive stories help every child see themselves in books.  

Key topics covered in this episode:

• Northern Lights, a story full of magic, mystery and unforgettable characters.

• How BookTrust supports children and families with free books and reading programmes.

• Why representation and new voices in children’s literature matter.

• Tips for families to make reading fun and exciting at home.• The upcoming National Year of Reading 2026 in the UK.

Vote for Krish in the Signal Awards!
The podcast has been nominated, and you can support by voting for the Listeners’ Choice Award here:

https://vote.signalaward.com/PublicVoting#/2025/shows/genre/kids

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Website: https://www.booktrust.org.uk

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