Korero Pt England

KPE Episode 409: "Piri and the Tekoteko"

2012-01-25T02:33:00.004+13:00

Ahsin from Room 17 has been reading a book called "Piri and the Tekoteko" written by an author named Robyn Waitangi Nightingale. Gabriel interviews him about it.

The story begins when Piri and his nanny are on their Marae. Piri sees a terrifying tekoteko on top of the Whare nui. A tekoteko is a carving of a Maori figure. This one is a wooden statue that sits on top of a Whare nui. It can be just an head, or it can be a full body.

You will enjoy listening to this podcast and finding out more about this fascinating subject.

KPE Episode 408: "Lucky"

2012-01-19T02:23:00.008+13:00

Shoal interviews Vivienne about "Lucky" by Ellen Miles.

Charles and Lizzie Peterson love puppies, especially Buddy, their adorable pet. But there are a lot of young dogs that need love and proper care. The Petersons act as a foster family, helping to find puppies a perfect forever home. Charles is on a backyard camping trip when he discovers a lost puppy by the stream. Lucky is scared, dirty, and hungry. It's up to Charles and his new friend David to bring this dog to safety. Will they be able to find Lucky's home?

KPE Episode 407: "EJ12 Girl Hero"

2012-01-13T02:02:00.002+13:00

In this podcast Litia interviews Shoal about a book she has been reading.

This book is called "EJ12 Girl Hero" and is written by Susannah McFarlane. Emma Jacks is an ordinary girl. She is also a gymnast. She's competing in a competition and wants to be able to do big jumps onto the beam for the routine that she is doing but she doesn't believe she can. But actually, she is NOT so ordinary as you will find out when you listen to this podcast...

KPE Episode 406: ""What do you want for Dinner?"

2012-01-08T01:27:00.003+13:00

Onosa'i and Ahsin from Room 17 chose "What do you want for Dinner?" for this episode of KPE. It is a School Journal story.
The story begins with the Dad asking the kids what they would like to have for dinner, and because they are Kiwi kids they wanted Fish and Chips of course. You will find out a bit about what Onosa'i and Ahsin want for dinner too as you listen to this podcast!

KPE Episode 405: "My Dad's got an alligator"

2012-01-04T01:16:00.003+13:00

"My Dad's got an alligator" by Jeremy Strong is reviewed by Kobe and Tau from Room 17.

Nicholas is used to his loopy father's antics. But it looks like dad has finally flipped when he brings an alligator home to be the family pet. With Crunchbag around there is never a dull moment. This riotous reptile is soon eating the Sunday lunch, is in the neighbours' pond and is on the loose.

KPE Episode 404: "What made Tiddalick Laugh"

2012-01-02T00:47:00.004+13:00

Piriniha and Tau from Room 17 created this podcast of "What made Tiddalick Laugh" by Joanna Troughton.
This is a story from the Australian Dreamtime about a greedy frog who drank all the water and left the other animals to go thirsty.

KPE Episode 403: "What a Mess, Fang Fang"

2012-01-01T12:45:00.000+13:00

Fang Fang was born in China but moved to Australia when she was very little. She speaks English and Chinese. But Fang Fang doesn’t like to speak Chinese. She wants to be like the other kids at school. Their parents all speak English.

She always makes a mess when she eats wontons. How can she be neat and clean like her twin cousins? She needs some special magic!

Makalita and Vanessa who are Year 6 students from Room 17 review this book called "What a Mess, Fang Fang" by Sally Rippin.

KPE Episode 402: "Muddletopia"

2011-12-31T20:36:00.000+13:00

Gabriel and Ahsin from Room 17 review a book from the Kiwi Bites series, "Muddletopia" by Kyle Mewburn.

Muddletopia is the most confusing planet in the galaxy. Not only is it completely flat but all the buildings look the same. The most confusing thing of all is that, at first glance, everyone looks alike. One day, Queen Malvina decides to make life easier by putting labels on everything, including people. She believes this will make Muddletopia a much less muddled place to live. However when a big earthquake shakes up Muddletopia everyone discovers just how confusing labels can be.

KPE Episode 401: "Gulliver's Travels"

2011-12-31T12:15:00.000+13:00

Starford and Waata review the classic tale, "Gulliver's Travels" by Jonathan Swift in this episode of KPE. Many kids have seen the movie made from this book, but as these boys share, it is a great idea to read the book too. Check out their podcast and tell them what you think of the story.

KPE Episode 400: "Chicken Feathers"

2011-12-06T02:00:00.000+13:00

This is an amazing event in the history of Korero Pt England -KPE has published 400 episodes today.

That means Pt Englanders have reviewed 400 books!

Ka pai Pt England kids!

Litia and Vivienne from Room 17 are the producers of this celebration podcast and have done us proud again.

They have chosen "Chicken Feathers" by Joy Cowley for this landmark episode, and we know you will enjoy their review. And check out the very cool photography while you listen...

Joshua lives with his parent on a farm with three thousand chickens. Joshua has been around chickens so long that he knows just about everything that there is to know about a chicken. But then Joshua meets Semolina who is quite different from any other chicken he’s ever seen.

Joshua’s father Tucker gives Semolina to his son one day. “She’s a character this one… Too old to lay, fights with the other chickens,” Tucker says. But Joshua likes the scruffy old chicken with ragged feathers nonetheless.

Then Joshua learns the truth about Semolina. The old chicken can talk just a like a human. Joshua tries to tell his parents but they don’t believe him.....

KPE Episode 399: "Follow that Lion"

2011-12-05T21:45:00.001+13:00

Jessica interviews Makalita from Room 17 for this episode of KPE. "Follow that Lion" by Rosemary Hayes is a book in the Aussie Nibbles series.

Hector's mum does some very strange things, but even he is astonished when his mum brings home a lion, and expects it to be a vegetarian. The lion wants meat desperately, and so follows a mad chase.

They say the author's message is to get a pet that you can look after properly! And we're guessing that a lion doesn't quite fit the bill...

KPE Episode 398: "Only Tadpoles have Tails"

2011-12-05T07:46:00.001+13:00

"Only Tadpoles have Tails" by Jane Clarke is the latest podcast by Maru and Caroline from Room 17. This is a lovely story about friendship and responsibility.

Kicky the frog is upset that he still has his tadpole tail. He endures teasing from the other rainforest frogs because he is the only one who still has a tail. Although his friend assures him that it's only a matter of time before it falls off, he is still impatient - until piranhas attack and Kicky's tail saves the day. The tail helps him to swim faster and escape the piranhas, before it finally drops off.

KPE Episode 397: "Lucy's Bear"

2011-12-04T01:00:00.000+13:00

Caroline and Maru from Room 17 are pleased to share their review of "Lucy's Bear" by Philip Holden in this episode of KPE.

Theodore Bear is Lucy's constant companion, and certainly the best dressed teddy bear in Auckland. He secretly longs to play rugby for New Zealand, but at present he is quite content to accompany Lucy on an adventure-packed South Island holiday.

KPE Episode 396: "Meet The Kreeps New Step-Mummy"

2011-12-03T08:02:00.001+13:00

Brooklyn interviews Maru about "Meet The Kreeps New Step-Mummy" by Kiki Thorpe. This is the second book in the Kreeps series.

Polly can't believe that her dad actually likes Veronica Kreep. But that doesn't compare to how she feels now that the two are getting married! And if Polly thought the Kreeps were bizarre, that was only because she hadn't met the extended Kreep family yet! One thing's for sure, marrying a Kreep is anything but boring! Polly Winkler just wants to be a normal kid in a normal family. When you're ten, that's hard enough. But it's even harder when your dad decides to marry the mother of the weirdest family in town!

Polly seems to be the only one in her family who sees how strange the Kreeps really are. Her older sister is too busy cheerleading to notice anything and her younger brother is consumed with preparing for the county spelling bee championship.
With the Kreeps around, Polly is always at risk of dying of embarrassment. But at least she knows that life will never be boring!

KPE Episode 395: "The Lost Watch"

2011-12-03T07:41:00.001+13:00

Makalita interviews Jessica about Phillipa Werry's very popular book, "The Lost Watch".

This is a great story about about things going wrong when someone had forgotten to "be in the right place, doing the right thing, at the right time"! And the courage it takes to own up when you have done the wrong thing.

KPE Episode 394: "Jason Prince"

2011-11-30T22:58:00.001+13:00

Alexandria has been reading "Jason Prince" by Max Dann and Caroline interviews her for this podcast.

We find out about the life of a Prince in this "Aussie Bites" book and these girls really enjoy talking about it.

Jason Prince lives in an enormous mansion with twenty-seven servants and his own theme park. But he has only ever left his grounds once. Now he meets Grace, and she sets out to show him how the other half lives!

KPE Episode 393: "Big Fish, Little Fish"

2011-11-30T22:49:00.001+13:00

"Big Fish, Little Fish" by Melanie Drewery is the latest book to be podcast by Kobe and Logan.

All New Zealanders are familiar with the sea because our country is surrounded by water. And lots of us have great fishing memories and stories.

Check out this podcast and tell us what you think of the fishing story at the centre of this book...

KPE Episode 392: "The BFG"

2011-11-29T22:00:00.000+13:00

"The BFG" by Roald Dahl needs no introduction and you will enjoy participating in Chante and Brooklyn's review of this well loved book.

For listeners who have missed out on this story, here is an introduction:

This story is about a little girl named Sophie. One night, when Sophie cannot fall asleep she sees a giant blowing something into the bedroom windows down the street. What could it be? The giant notices her, reaches through the window, and carries her to his home in Giant Country. Once there, he tells her that he is the world's only benevolent giant, the Big Friendly Giant or BFG, who operating in the strictest secrecy, collects good dreams that he later distributes to children.

Listen to their podcast and tell us which part of the BFG is YOUR favourite....

KPE Episode 391: "The Wednesday Wizard"

2011-11-29T17:23:00.001+13:00

"The Wednesday Wizard" by Sherryl Jordan is presented by Darius and Marvin from Room 17. This is a medieval wizard / time travel story. They have a really interesting and wide ranging discussion in this podcast and we are confident you will enjoy it.

Check it out and tell us what you think...

When apprentice wizard Denzil miscasts a spell, he finds himself transported from his medieval village to the twentieth century. After much mischief and mayhem, he manages to return to his own time and place.

KPE Episode 390: " The Icecream Cowboys"

2011-11-28T08:28:00.001+13:00

Kobe and Logan discuss "The Ice-cream Cowboys" by Adrian Boote in this latest podcast.

George Dobbs is a worrier who even worries about worrying! When the Ice Cream Cowboys promise that their ice cream can make him fearless he's not so sure, but, unfortunately the ice cream falls into the wrong hands and now he really needs to worry.

This book is a sequel to "The Lemonade Genie", so you might like to read that next!

KPE Episode 389: "Josh and the Tooth Fairy"

2011-11-27T22:44:00.001+13:00

Caroline and Alexandria from Room 17 share a story from a School Journal called "Josh and the Tooth Fairy"

Has the tooth fairy ever visited you? Maybe you could share your experiences with us in the comments below.

School Journal Part 1, Number 1 2009

KPE Episode 388: "Tongue-Tied"

2011-11-14T13:30:00.000+13:00

Crusader from Room 17 has been reading "Tongue Tied" by Paul Jennings and Darius interviews him about it.

"Tongue Tied" is one of 8 stories in an anthology and it may surprise you to hear these boys enjoyed it!

Sure it takes place behind a toilet!!! BUT it has romance, kissing and a creepy scene with a fish! We think you need to check this out....

Have you ever

* Swallowed a live fish

* Seen bugs in hailstones

* Had luminous teeth

* Used a smell-detector

* Been a ghost

No? Then read about kids who have – eight twisted tales to leave you tongue-tied.

By the master of madness – The one and only Paul Jennings

KPE Episode 387: "Goodbye Toss"

2011-11-14T02:30:00.000+13:00

Vivienne has read "Goodbye Toss" by Diane Noonan and Ashleigh is her DJ for this podcast.

'Super Ace' is the name Toss and Al give to the cool new go cart they are making for the annual derby which has the whole school agog with rumour.....

This book has a lot to offer Pt England kids because we are really into the soap box derby - as anyone who visits our school knows. Our shiny red go cart sits in the foyer and every year we bring it out to race in the Auckland champs.

Anyway, listen to this podcast and hear about some other kids who love their derby racing....

KPE Episode 386: "Singenpoo Strikes Again"

2011-11-13T03:00:00.000+13:00

Marvin has been reading "Singenpoo Strikes Again" by Paul Jennings and Darius interviews him.

Cats are dumb. They can't read. At least that's what Major Mac thinks. But Scott knows that Singen Poo is a special kind of cat, and if he can prove it, they'll beat that bulldog Mungo the Marvellous and mean Major Mac. Scott knows that his cat, Singenpoo can read. But will he be able to prove it? The competition is on... The hilarious sequel to The Paw Thing.

KPE Episode 385: "Agnes the Sheep"

2011-11-12T18:44:00.001+13:00

This hilarious yarn about Agnes, a sheep with a very bad temper, follows the efforts of a couple who try to save her from the slaughterhouse.

William Taylor has written another kiwi tale about Belinda and Joe, two feuding classmates, who become unlikely allies when they are named caretakers of a sheep. Not just any sheep, but a hulking, obstinate sheep named Agnes. It all begins when they are assigned to visit a local "pioneer." Bored at first with the assignment, they soon find that the life of Mrs. Carpenter was anything but ordinary.

You will enjoy Vivienne and Ashleigh's discussion of this book, but if you get confused about where the 'Angus' references come from, you have to say....."Only in G.I."!

KPE Episode 384: "Wearing the Poppy"

2011-10-26T00:30:00.000+13:00

Chante talks to Brooklyn about "Wearing the Poppy" by A J Toledo.

If you have ever wondered;

Why do New Zealanders wear red poppies on ANZAC Day? What is ANZAC Day all about? Why does a flower mean so much to so many people?

Then this book is for you...

This moving story of the first ANZACs is told through the experiences of one family, whose letters, diaries and memories bring to life New Zealand in the First World War. How the red poppy came to symbolize a lost generation is a poignant and fascinating account, filling in the gaps for young New Zealanders who are discovering their own family history.

KPE Episode 383: "Sniwt"

2011-10-25T09:30:00.000+13:00

Vivienne from Room 17 interviews Shoal about "Sniwt" by Justin D'ath.

You will have guessed that this is TWINS backwards. The main characters in this story are twins called Sally and Olly. These twins are kidnapped by aliens, and as the story goes along there is a lot to get your nodz around! Two zzziplas, one pair of twins, a blinding pink flash and then - ffzzzzzpwt! - goodbye Sally and Olly, hello Solly and Ally. Twins become sniwT. And only the Chykkans can fix-up the mix-up.

Tell us what you think....

KPE Episode 382: "The Cabbage Patch War"

2011-10-25T07:00:00.000+13:00

Starford and Kingston review "The Cabbage Patch War" by Paul Jennings for this episode of Korero Pt England.

What does this story include? Try this....

A barbecue from hell. Spuds on the roof.

A visit from the police. It was war,

a fight to the finish between Dad and Whacka.

And Chris was right in the middle of it.

All because Dad vomited in the cabbage patch.

KPE Episode 381: "Attacked"

2011-10-24T20:03:00.001+13:00

Shoal and Ashleigh have been reading "Attacked" by G Brassi.

This is a very popular book with Pt England kids and you will discover why when you have heard this podcast.

Attacked is the story of a fishing adventure which takes place around the islands near Whitianga. Livvie goes fishing with Jack and his dog, Serge. When Jack is attacked, Livvie has to overcome her own fears, not to mention engine problems, to get them all back to shore in one piece...

KPE Episode 380: "The Base"

2011-10-24T19:27:00.005+13:00

Onosai and Kobe review a book called "The Base" by Carlo Gebler.
As well as learning about "The Base" we find out in this podcast that both of these boys have lived on a farm before they came to live in Auckland! See if you can figure out where they lived.
In this story:

"The Coin children are delighted when they find an abandoned shed, perfect for their new base. But when they disturb some surprising visitors, they realize it's not only their secret...."

KPE Episode 379: "Giant Jim and the Hurricane"

2011-10-21T13:03:00.001+13:00

Tau has has been reading "Giant Jim and the Hurricane" by Jeremy Strong. Donyae interviews him for this podcast.

Check it out....

When Giant Jim comes to town, people are terrified they'll be eaten, or squashed. But Jim is a good giant - he only eats omeletes, likes music and wants somewhere to live. Unfortunately he just can't do things right. He makes a racket with his saxophone, squashes the Town Hall and his hen even lays a giant egg on the library - and so he is banished. When a hurricane hits the town Jim's hen looks after people while he puts the town back together again. People are delighted and Giant Jim is allowed to live in a huge barn in the town.....

KPE Episode 378: "Wonderful Wheels Day"

2011-10-21T12:51:00.000+13:00

Alexandria and Makelita have been reading "Wonderful Wheels Day" by Philippa Werry and Alice Bell. Read this taster below, listen to the podcast, and tell them what you think. Maybe you have read this book too and can leave your opinion below...

Henry’s teacher Miss Grace wants to reward room 4 for their excellent work

and behaviour. If all the students keep trying hard they will get a Wonderful

Wheels Day at the end of the term. On Wheels Day you get to bring inline

skates or skateboards or bikes to school and ride them around the playground

while everyone else is in class. Everyone in room 4 is excited – except Henry.

Henry is dreading Wheels Day. He can’t ride a bike or use rollerblades. The

trouble is he has no balance. Henry is worried that he will make a fool of

himself in front of all his friends and plans to come up with a way of getting out

of Wheels Day.

KPE Episode 377: "Zac's Wild Rescue"

2011-10-21T12:40:00.002+13:00

Donyae has been reading "Zac's Wild Rescue" by H.I. Larry and Waata is his DJ for this podcast. This book is from the Zac Power series and in this book Zac has two new gadgets to test drive. Are they cool enough for Zac's wild rescue at the zoo?

As well as listening to the podcast, we recommend you visit the very cool website developed around the Zac Power series.

KPE Episode 376: "The Witches"

2011-10-03T07:47:00.000+13:00

Thea and Gloria from Room 13 are back with another engaging podcast for KPE. These young ladies may only be in Year 4, but they sure know how to spin a good yarn and make you want to read the book they are discussing!

This time they have chosen to review "The Witches" by Roald Dahl. Roald Dahl has his own website.

This Roald Dahl classic tells the scary, funny and imaginative tale of a seven-year-old boy who has a run-in with some real-life witches! "In fairy tales witches always wear silly black hats and black cloaks and they ride on broomsticks. But this is not a fairy tale. This is about REAL WITCHES. REAL WITCHES dress in ordinary clothes and look very much like ordinary women. They live in ordinary houses and they work in ordinary jobs. That is why they are so hard to catch." Witches, as our hero learns, hate children. With the help of a friend and his somewhat-magical grandmother, our hero tries to expose the witches before they dispose of him.

KPE Episode 375; 'Rose's Challenge'

2011-10-02T21:55:00.003+13:00

"Rose's Challenge by Sherryl Clark is reviewed by two of our Year 4 students, Thea and Gloria from Room 13.

In their very first podcast for KPE they have chosen the third book in an Australian series about a girl named Rose who lives in 1900 and is determined to change the world!

Although this book is part of a series, these two girls have done a great job of giving their listeners a clear idea of what is happening in the story (without giving away the ending) and we are sure you will want to get your hands on it to have a read. You will enjoy the story as well as finding out about life in very different times from how we live now.

Rose's journey continues in this, the third of four books about a Federation girl who's determined to do things her way! Rose is finally allowed to go to school - the magnificent St Swithin's! But Rose has never been to school before - will she be able to keep up? Will she fit in? And will she be allowed to join the cricket team?! In the meantime, change is afoot in Melbourne: Federation is imminent, and the suffragette movement is gathering force. When Mother gets ill and Aunt Alice takes a position in a poor state-run school, Rose realises that she has taken a lot for granted - but the changes taking place around her will change Rose's life forever...

KPE Episode 374: "Cross Now"

2011-09-28T20:57:00.000+13:00

Tyla and Jonita from Room 14 have chosen to share a story from

School Journal Part 3 Number 2 2002

"Cross Now!" was written by Roly Hermans, who is actually a Senior Constable in the Police force. We expect you will learn quite a bit about road safety from this podcast.

Take a listen....

KPE Episode 373: "Karius and Baktus"

2011-09-27T22:54:00.000+13:00

In this podcast Rita and Chante from Room 17 discuss "Karius and Bactus" by Thorbjorn Egner .

This book is a real classic in Norway.

The book is about two men, Karius and Baktus, who live in the teeth in the mouth of a boy named Jens. They feed on whatever Jens eats, especially when he eats candy. If he keeps his teeth clean, Karius and Baktus starve. But Jens loves candy, so they have plenty of food. When they're not hungry, the two men make holes in Jens' teeth (the holes are their houses).
In Norway, parents read this story to their children in order to teach them to keep their teeth clean.

KPE Episode 372: "Merry Christmas, Geronimo!"

2011-09-27T22:34:00.003+13:00

"Merry Christmas, Geronimo!" by Geronimo Stilton is reviewed by Toko and Casey from Room 21.

These two reviews from Amazon tell us some other readers ideas about this book....

Trouble follows this mouse wherever he goes. His name is Geronimo Stilton, editor of the Rodent's Gazette. Geronimo was planning a wonderful Christmas dinner for his neighbors, family, and friends. He goes out to buy Christmas presents, but forgets to blow his candle out. He comes to his home and finds his house burned.

I was so excited about Christmas, I could squeak! My favorite nephew Benjamin was going to come over, and we were planning to trim the tree and eat lots of delicious holiday Cheesy Chews. But before you could say "cat alert," disaster struck! I slipped over my tail and ended up in the hospital. And then my mouse hole caught on fire! Holey cheese, this was turning out to be the worst Christmas ever....

KPE Episode 371: "Kura Toa: Warrior School"

2011-09-15T20:32:00.000+12:00

This podcast by two Room 17 boys, Waata and Darius , reviews "Kura Toa: Warrior School" by Tim Tipene.

In this book, a high school student named Haki must learn what it takes to become a warrior.

After a mysterious old man who seems to know a lot about him steals a precious jade stone from him, Haki’s search for his belongings brings him into conflict with his family, his friends, and his school. Throughout the search, he must confront his fears, find a way to answer the challenge to serve his people and his land, and fight the taniwha, a dangerous mythical predator that lives in deep rivers and dark caves.

KPE Ep 370: "The Amazing Days of Abby Hayes: Reach for the Stars"

2011-08-30T13:00:00.000+12:00

Rita and Vivienne from Room 17 bring us "The Amazing Days of Abby Hayes: Reach for the Stars" by Anne Mazer.

My performance in Peter Pan will be a "thing of beauty." It will be a "joy forever," because my family will never stop talking about it. Neither will Ms. Bunder. The tryouts are in only two weeks. I must prepare myself in every way. Once I get my part, I will rehearse without cease! But first I must decide which part I want. Captain Hook? Peter Pan? Wendy? Or any of the other roles?

You are about to be wonderfully entertained because after you have listened to their podcast you must check out the website for this book. You will have hours of fun! Let us know how you got on in the comments below.

KPE Ep 369 : "Goosebumps- Zapped in Space"

2011-08-29T09:22:00.000+12:00

Gabriel and Waata from Room 17 bring us the 23rd Goosebumps book "Zapped in Space", by R.L. Stine. You will enjoy their lively dialogue and the animations interspersed throughout the podcast.

It's a space jam-med with aliens!
Strap yourself into the console! You've just entered Madame Zapp's new Virtual Reality arcade. But once you take on these virtual worlds, forget about scoring. You'll be too busy trying to stay alive!
If you're a real space cadet, check out "Adrift Off Vega" where you end up in space, fighting super-smart - and super-deadly - Arcturian aliens. Or maybe you'd like to try an Arctic adventure in "Abominable Snow Woman." But remember to pack your parka - or you could end up a human popsicle...
The choice is yours in this scary GOOSEBUMPS adventure that's packed with over 20 super-spooky endings!

KPE Ep 368: "Nasty Stinky Sneakers"

2011-08-28T15:37:00.001+12:00

Darius and Waata from Room 17 review
"Nasty Stinky Sneakers" by Eve Bunting.

You will enjoy their banter and their fun graphics!

Colin has spent weeks perfecting his sneaker odor for the Stinkiest Sneakers in the World contest. If he wins, he'll get three brand-new pairs of Slam Dunkers sneakers: one for himself, one for his little sister, Amy, and one for his best pal, Webster.
But now, after weeks of working toward stinky perfection -- not washing his feet, wearing no socks, jogging to get his feet juicy, and even sleeping with his sneakers on -- the nasty, stinky sneakers are missing!

KPE 367: "The Diary of Charlotte McKenzie"

2011-08-27T19:22:00.000+12:00

Chante interviews Brooklyn about "The Diary of Charlotte McKenzie" by Kerry Greenwood.

As the horrors of the First World War are drawing to a close, a danger has arisen that will kill more people around the world than the Great War itself - an influenza pandemic.

Charlotte McKenzie, assisting the doctor next door, finds herself experiencing at close hand the effects of this devastating disease - and when it finally attacks her own family, how can Charlotte cope?

You will enjoy hearing about this fascinating novel, and you will find out some surprising things about our two podcasters as well.

What do you want to do when you grow up?

KPE 366: "What do you want for Dinner?"

2011-08-27T18:02:00.002+12:00

Ahsin and Onosa'i from Room 17 publish this podcast for KPE. They have chosen to review one of the stories in a School Journal. You will learn all kinds of interesting things about New Zealand and how kiwis live as you listen to this. Maybe you could share some of your own experiences in the comments!

KPE 365: " Friend in Paradise"

2011-08-27T08:22:00.000+12:00

Crusader and Kingston review "A Friend in Paradise by Des Hunt. This book was a finalist in the 2003 New Zealand Post Children’s Book Awards.

When 12-year-old Robbie's father dies of cancer he starts to spin out of control, taking out his anger on his mother and sisters. At her wits' end, his mother arranges for him to spend the holidays with his Uncle Jim, on a farm near Opotiki where his father grew up. He decides the holiday might not be a dead loss after all when he visits a secret valley his father used to call Paradise, where he unexpectedly finds a new friend. But danger also lurks in Paradise, danger that entangles him in an awesome adventure that will take him all the way to the fiery volcano of White Island. Robbie must use his knowledge, wit, computer savvy and all his courage to save his new friend..and his own life.

Make sure you check out their cool animation in this podcast too. Tell them what you think.

KPE Episode 364: "No Half Measures"

2011-07-13T18:43:00.001+12:00

"No Half Measures" by Dunedin author Judy Knox this is the story of a camping holiday in the wilds of South Westland that goes horribly wrong.

Litia has been reading this book and is interviewed by Shoal. You will enjoy this podcast and the fabulous animation Litia has included as part of the images accompanying the podcast.

Mitch is on a tramping trip with his bossy twin sister and their uncle when his uncle is badly injured, his sister twists her ankle, and Mitch realises it is up to him to go for help.

He heads into the wilderness, hoping to meet someone, but he finds himself in the middle of a ring of desperate criminals with no apparent way out.

Mitch is a strong character, and makes a nicely plotted development from laziness and uncertainty to tenaciousness and courage by book's end.

KPE Episode 363: "Maximum Boy"

2011-07-11T21:08:00.002+12:00

Max "Maximum Boy" Silver is a 11 year old hero. He lives on the north side of Chicago next to Lake Michigan. He lives with his mum, his dad and his teenage sister, Tiffany. He has braces, glasses, and superpowers: he can lift freight trains, fly faster than a space shuttle, and burp the alphabet. He has an adult friend named Porter "Tortoise Man" Torrington, who has a power called the Tortoise Ray.

Max has a few weaknesses. Milk products and sweet potatoes give him a bad upset stomach. Ragweed makes him sneeze his head off. Seeing and hearing maths makes him weak and dizzy.

Check out what Kingston and Starford have to say about "Maximum Boy" by Dan Greenburg in this podcast - and have a look at their fabulous animation. Don't forget to give them some feedback....

KPE Episode 362: "Hooligan Wreckit"

2011-06-19T14:34:00.001+12:00

This is a VERY popular book at Pt England School and a number of children have chosen to podcast it over the past 5 years.

Have a listen to this rendition of "Hooligan Wreckit" by Vivienne and Brooklyn from Room 17.

Julian Eckett is trapped on the park's iron fence, late at night, with a dead goldfish in his bag and a police car approaching. The belt hook of his cargo pants lassoed the arrowhead of the ancient iron railings as he launched himself over them. He tried to look cool, like someone leaning on a fence, as the policeman's torch shone brightly in his eyes. 'I can explain, but it's a secret'.....

Hooligan Wreckit, Goldfisherman, by Liz Dickson

KPE Episode 361: "Budgie"

2011-06-16T18:01:00.001+12:00

Jessica and Vanessa from Room 17 have podcast "Budgie" by Steven Woolman.

Lou's little blue budgie is her best friend. He keeps her company and cheers her up when she is sad. One day Budgie flies away, and she is devastated. She does everything she can to find her friend. Will she ever see him again?

KPE Episode 360: "End of the Alphabet"

2011-06-16T05:26:00.001+12:00

We have another Fleur Beale podcast to share with you. In this episode Vivienne interviews Litia about "End of the Alphabet" - a book Litia has been reading in the holidays. You will find this a detailed and fun review of this book - we highly recommend you take a listen.

Ruby Yarrow is a 14 year old who lives in a busy, loving, chaotic family with her mum, stepdad, brother and two little stepbrothers. Ruby feels a bit like a doormat - she has to help out in the family a lot while her brother doesn't. He wins lots of prizes at school and she has a learning difficulty and needs a reader/writer to help her in exams. Ruby's surname Yarrow is at the end of the alphabet and when the roll gets called out she's always at the end and she hates it. She feels she's always at the end of the line. Not that she's a misery bag at all. She has great friends and loves clothes, fashion magazines and sewing and she's got a real knack for it. She's very keen to go on the school trip to Brazil and so gets a job to earn the money to go - works in a supermarket for an old grump, learns a bit of Portuguese, meets exchange students….

KPE Episode 359: "Grandma Joins the All Blacks"

2011-06-15T17:08:00.016+12:00

You will enjoy this conversation between Donyae and Onosai about rugby! They discuss their own rugby, our own All Blacks and of course Grandma - the heroine of this story.

When Grandma finds out the All Blacks are sick and tired of training, she combines her famous zest for life with a hearty helping of her special marmalade, and soon has the team back on track for the big test match.

"Grandma Joins the All Blacks" is written by Helen McKinlay.

They have learnt from this that you should do good things to those who help you - that does sound like a familiar saying, doesn't it!

KPE Episode 358: Emily's Hens

2011-06-13T02:04:00.000+12:00

Vanessa and Jessica from Room 17 have been reading " Emily's Hen" written by Rosie Boom.

This is one of several stories in a School Journal and is about a girl called Emily who wanted to keep hens. She gets her way and then quickly learns that hens require a lot of care and she has to look after them.

KPE Episode 357: "The Magic Wand"

2011-06-12T18:32:00.021+12:00

Makalita and Alexandria have been reading "The Magic Wand" by Ursula Dubosarsky . This is a book in the Aussie Nibbles series.

"When Becky's little brother Ed annoys her, she puts a spell on him with her magic wand, and he disappears! Where is he? Has he really disappeared? Becky is worried."

They tell us the korero for this book is, "If someone is annoying, you shouldn't do something bad to them. Don't let your anger get the best of you!"

KPE Episode 356 :""The Dog I Share"

2011-05-30T05:36:00.000+12:00

"The dog I share" by Janice Marriott is podcast by Chelsea and Te Roimata from Room 21

If you would like to read it yourself, check it out online here...

KPE Episode 355 :"My Dad, the All Black"

2011-05-30T01:07:00.000+12:00

Crusader and Waata from Room 17 review the perfect book in the Rugby World Cup year - "My Dad, the All Black".

As New Zealand gears up for total rugby fever, these boys from Room 17 bring this classic from Sandy MacKay back to KPE.

Will McCann, 12 years old, is a top notch rugby player. Everybody says he gets his talent from his famous All Black father, but Will never knew his dad. After a game goes wrong, Will wonders if he plays rugby because he loves the game, or because everybody says he should?

When Will's grandad dies, Will meets Jim, his reclusive uncle with a troubled past. Why has Uncle Jim stayed away from Will and his mum for so many years? What really happened the night Will's dad died? While, on the other side of the world, the All Blacks battle for the 1999 Rugby World Cup, Will battles to discover the truth about the past. He eventually unlocks a secret that helps him decide things for himself.

Anyone who ever wanted to be an All Black should read this book!

KPE Episode 354 :"Seven Wheels of Power"

2011-05-29T21:04:00.000+12:00

Ashleigh and Brooklyn are in Room 17 and they have been reading "Seven Wheels of Power" by Dawn Barnes.

Seven Wheels of Power is the first book in the Black Belt Club series of martial arts adventures, which follows four young karate students, Max, Maia, Antonio, and Jamie. In the Seven Wheels of Power, the four members of the BBC must use their martial arts to defeat the Death Master - the darkest force in the universe, which has threatened to end all life and create a world of horror and fear! Pretty scary stuff... even if you have ablack belt in karate. As the four work together to defeat the Dark Master, they must each use courage, intelligence and abilities they never even knew they had.

KPE Episode 353 :"My Dog the Dinosaur"

2011-05-29T20:49:00.000+12:00

Vivienne and Litia from Room 17 have created another fantastic episode of KPE
.
Take a listen and tell them what you think of this book and their podcast....

Gunk's dad wears fluffy chicken slippers.

His sister, Fliss, is into weightlifting and his mum is searching for aliens.

Gunk has Spot, his pet dog or is it? (a dog, that it.) Spot has a long neck, a flat tail and eats lettuce. Lots of it. Come to think of it, Spot is the silliest-looking dog Gunk has ever seen. Spot is scared of cats, too, and Fliss′s motorbike. And then Spot starts to grow...

Will Spot ever learn to bark? What strange secret does Pete, the girl next door, keep in her shed? Can Gunk teach Spot to like dog food? Or, will everyone in the world want to take Spot away when they find out that he isn′t really a dog?

KPE Episode 352 :"Payback"

2011-05-29T20:45:00.000+12:00

Kingston and Crusader have reviewed "payback" by Michelle Kelly in this episode of KPE.
Watch their podcast, and read more about the story below...
And most importantly, tell us what YOU think!

Riley Mitchell is nearly 14 years old. He is a popular guy, funny and confident. The
only problem is that he is really, really short. In fact Riley is pygmy-sized. Usually
this doesn’t bother him. After all, it didn’t stop him from going out with one of
the most popular girls in school and being best friends with Karl and Alex, two
sporty types who also happen to make excellent bodyguards. But things seem to
be going pear-shaped lately. Kelly isn’t talking to him and he has no idea why.
Vince McGerk, the school bully, won’t stop hassling him about his diminutive
stature, and now Riley has had enough. In a moment of extreme insanity Riley hits
Vince over the head with his plaster cast (result of a skateboarding accident),
knocking him clean off his feet. While Riley’s actions turn him into a temporary
hero he knows that it is only a matter of time before Vince gets him back.

Thing get even worse when Riley joins his school’s softball team. He plays
backstop and Vince McGerk is chosen as pitcher. While Riley loves softball and
representing the school he can’t fully enjoy himself. When and how will Vince get
him back? To make matters even worse the doctor has referred Riley to a growth
clinic. Riley always assumed that he would grow, sooner or later. What if this isn’t
true and he is destined to be a “midget” for his whole life?

KPE Episode 351 :"Maximum Boy"

2011-05-09T01:45:00.000+12:00

Kingston and Crusader from Room 17 have been reading "Maximum Boy" by Dan Greenburg.

Max "Maximum Boy" Silver is a 11 year old hero. He lives on the north side of Chicago next to Lake Michigan. He lives with his mum, his dad and his teenage sister, Tiffany. He has braces, glasses, and superpowers: he can lift freight trains, fly faster than a space shuttle, and burp the alphabet. He has an adult friend named Porter "Tortoise Man" Torrington, who has a power called the Tortoise Ray.
Read more about this series here

KPE Episode 350 :"Jim's Run"

2011-05-08T01:37:00.000+12:00

Onosa'i and Logan from Room 17 have their first podcast for 2011 to share with the world!

They have been reading "Jim's Run" by John Parker.

This is the story of a boy who wants some trendy sneakers. To prove to his parents just how much he does need them, he decides to enter the toughest fun-run in the country.

KPE Episode 349 :"TT's Terrible Tuesday"

2011-05-07T07:36:00.001+12:00

"TT's Terrible Tuesday" by John Parker is podcast by Starford and Donyae from Room 17.

This junior graphic novel tells of a day in the life of Top Tom - a pampered cat with a bad attitude. Being rather spoilt, TT refuses to eat the new breakfast cereal being offered, one, which he believes, is of an inferior nature. This proves to be a mistake when his refusal is taken to indicate ill health and TT is rushed...to the VET!

KPE Episode 348 :"Something Weird About Mr Foster"

2011-05-06T07:07:00.000+12:00

Darius and Waata from Room 17 have been reading "Something Weird About Mr Foster" by Ken Catran.

Joe Bennett is a typical intermediate student. He enjoys school for the most part but would like it even more if it weren’t for Raymond. Raymond is the school bully. He is mean and ugly. Raymond takes money off the other kids and never pays them back. He’s always getting into fights. Joe spends a lot of his time avoiding Raymond so that he doesn’t have to give him money.

Raymond is the reason why Joe leaves school through the teachers’ car park one day, instead of out the front gates. This is when he sees something extraordinary. His favourite teacher, Mr Foster drops a ball on the ground and instead of going over to pick it up he simply reaches out his arm, which grows and grows to over 4 metres long! Joe can hardly believe what he has seen, but he’s sure he’s not imagining it – especially when weird things start to happen. Joe has a very strange feeling that Mr Foster can read his mind and suddenly he has this amazing power and strength. Raymond is no longer a problem anymore – in fact, now the other kids aren’t scared of Raymond; they’re scared of Joe! But it seems that time is running out for Mr Foster. He is from outer space and all of the parts that make up his physical form are becoming weaker by the day. Earth is too polluted by humankind and Mr Foster is slowly dying. Joe needs to use all of his resources in order to save Mr Foster. The only problem is that he needs Raymond’s help to do it…

KPE Episode 347 :"The Seed"

2011-05-05T08:51:00.002+12:00

Starford and Ahsin from Room 17 have recorded this podcast about "The Seed" by Isabel Pin.

The Scarabs and the Chafers were two tribes that never ever crossed each other's borders. But on one particular day something that fell out of the sky landed right in the middle of the border that divided their regions. The two tribes' ability to remain peaceful began being tested. Unfortunately they prepared for war as each tribe wanted to own the thing.

In the meantime, though, this strange thing that fell out of the sky, transformed into a beautiful cherry tree and its branches spread over both their lands. Both tribes realised they could SHARE its beauty and its fruit forever.

The happy ending in this story certainly does involve everyone winning.

War was avoided.

The two tribes learned to share.

Everyone lived in peace and harmony.

Tell Starford and Ahsin what you think about this podcast...

KPE Episode 346 :"Leaving One-Foot Island"

2011-05-04T20:32:00.001+12:00

Chelsea and Aneisha from Room 21

Chelsea and Aneisha from Room 21 have produced this podcast about "Leaving One-Foot Island" by Graeme Lay.

These Year 7 girls have read this book for older children and teenagers that is a moving story of the harsh reality of the extreme differences between life in the Pacific Islands and New Zealand. The story tells about a girl who moves to New Zealand from the Cook Islands and the hard times she faced learning to live in a strange culture.

Take a listen and give them some feedback.....

KPE Episode 345: "The Sticky Witch"

2011-03-30T12:31:00.000+13:00

Brooklyn and Chante from Room 17 have been reading "The Sticky Witch" by Hillary McKay.

This podcast includes a lively and expressive discussion of the book -and you will learn a few things about these girls along the way.

Tom, Ellie and Whiskers the cat have to stay with Aunt Tab, aka The Sticky Witch. That's bad. Everything in her house is sticky with treacle.The Sticky Witch has lots of rules but the most important one is: "stay away from my treacle pond". When Tom and Ellie investigate, what they find is beyond their wildest imaginings!

You are in for a treat!

KPE Episode 344 :"Go Girl! Sleepover"

2011-03-27T16:27:00.001+13:00

Rita and Shoal present "Go Girl! Sleepover" by Rowan McAuley for their first podcast in their new class, Room 17.

Olivia is having her first sleep over ever at her friends house. But she is being teased by her friend Ching Ching's brothers. Will Olivia be okay? Will her Mum have to come and get her before the sleepover?

KPE Episode 343: The Secret of Kiribu Tapu Lagoon

2011-03-26T11:21:00.000+13:00

"The Secret of Kiribu Tapu Lagoon" by Tandi Jackson is podcast by Joshua and Erene.

This book has also been reviewed by Simone and Caprice. You might like to check their review out as well.

KPE Episode 342: "Tree Hut Treaty"

2011-03-25T16:44:00.000+13:00

Kobe and Logan are now in Room 17 and they have chosen the well known New Zealand book, "Tree Hut Treaty" by Wiremu Grace for their first podcast for 2011.

This book is based around the themes of the Treaty of Waitangi and explores the ideas of Partnership, Participation and Protection. The story of kids in the same street learning to share a tree hut, and the treaty they sign to protect their rights, is quite similar to what happened in New Zealand way back when the European settlers and Maori leaders did a similar thing.

KPE Episode 341: A Dog So Small

2011-01-31T14:22:00.001+13:00

"A Dog So Small" by Philippa Pearce is reviewed by Matthew R and Joshua.

This book is set in London and talks about the power of the imagination. Take a look at how it starts...

The story opens with Ben Blewitt waking early on the morning of his birthday, anticipating that he will have a dog of his own. His grandfather had promised him one for his birthday and even though Ben knows the impossibility of having a dog in London, he still expects to receive news of the dog, if not the animal itself, on his birthday. Instead he receives a picture done in wool, of a Chihuahua called Chiquitito (the Spanish word for very, very small) which had been given to Ben's Granny by her son Willy as a souvenir of his third (and last voyage) as a sailor.

Ben is bitterly disappointed and swears never to visit his grandparents again, but he goes to stay with them in their home in the country shortly afterwards.

Listen to the podcast to find out more....

KPE Episode 340: Hooligan Wreckit

2011-01-25T11:05:00.001+13:00

Aneisha and Selina have been reading a book from the Kiwi Bites series.

"Hooligan Wreckit- Golldfisherman" by Liz Dickson is quite a crazy story. Check this out for starters...

"Julian Eckett's belt hook of his cargo pants lassoed the arrowhead of the ancient iron railings as he launched himself over them. He tried to look cool, like someone leaning on a fence, as the policeman's torch shone brightly in his eyes. 'I can explain, but it's a secret.' 'Try me,' said the burly policeman."

KPE Episode 339: Fantastic Mr Fox

2011-01-18T11:03:00.001+13:00

Kayla and Sylvia bring us the wonderful Roald Dahl story called, "The Fantastic Mr Fox". The antics of Bogus, Bunce and Bean - and how they are out-foxed- are loved by readers old and young. We expect you know this story well. Why don't you have a listen to these two girls and maybe leave them a comment about YOUR favourite part of the book!

KPE Episode 338: Ace Reporter

2011-01-11T13:52:00.000+13:00

Oshania and Rita present "Ace Reporter" by Quentin Flynn for this episode of KPE.

Brendan Sloan is a reporter for his school newspaper...

"An ace reporter always writes the best stories. Brendon Sloan is waiting for the delivery of a new video game. Then he will be able to write a really good story for the school newspaper. But while he waits, some very strange things happen.

What will Brendan Sloan write about?"

KPE Episode 337: Caught By the Sea

2011-01-10T17:31:00.000+13:00

This is Terina and Tauwhare from Room 15's first podcast. They discuss a true story about Rosemary Keating’s ordeal at sea after she and her diving buddy became separated. We hear about how she struggles to survive and find her way back to shore.

Water Safety was a big topic at Pt England School in Term 4 of 2010 because we had the first mobile swimming pool in New Zealand at our our school so all our students could learn water safety.

Find out more about that here and here.

KPE Episode 336: "Ollie's Bubble Bother"

2010-12-25T10:30:00.001+13:00

"Ollie's Bubble Bother" by Julie Mitchell is podcast by Senolita and Mary from Room 15. This zany story tells what happens when a boy called Ollie eats soap. We don't recommend eating soap!

KPE Episode 335: Big Fish Little Fish

2010-12-20T22:24:00.000+13:00

Unaloto and Kobe podcast "Big Fish Little Fish" by Melanie Drewery.

Jeremy wants to win the local fishing competition. He has his heart set on the first prize of a spinning sure-catch reel and a snap-resistant rod. He has plans to go out on his friend's dad's speed boat, but then his grandad offers to take him out in his old rowboat - and his mum accepts on his behalf!

The author's message is that it's not the size of the fish, it is the reason for catching the fish that counts. A section at the back of the book has information on fishing and the whaling industry in New Zealand.

KPE Episode 334: "The Witches"

2010-12-03T04:58:00.001+13:00

This Roald Dahl classic tells the scary, funny and imaginative tale of a seven-year-old boy who has a run-in with some real-life witches! In fairy tales witches always wear silly black hats and black cloaks and they ride on broomsticks. But this is not a fairy tale. This is about REAL WITCHES. REAL WITCHES dress in ordinary clothes and look very much like ordinary women. They live in ordinary houses and they work in ordinary jobs. That is why they are so hard to catch. Witches, as our hero learns, hate children. With the help of a friend and his somewhat-magical grandmother, our hero tries to expose the witches before they dispose of him.

Check out what Kade and Matthew R from Room 17 have to say about this famous book.

KPE Episode 333: "Trapped"

2010-12-02T04:35:00.011+13:00

A short, action story about teenagers whose boat overturns trapping one of them underneath. The illustrations on every page are realistic rather than cartoony.

Dante and Lola from Room 15 are our hosts for this podcast from KPE. Have a listen and tell them what you think!

KPE Episode 332: "River Crossing"

2010-12-01T16:08:00.001+13:00

Josh is 12-yrs-old and his summer holidays are about to change. His best friend Steve has been killed in an accident and Josh now has to spend the summer on his aunt and uncle's farm, much to the disgust of his cousin Brian. But when Brian falls over a bank, it is up to Josh to save him...

You will enjoy listening to Joe and Kobe discuss this book. Let them know what you think....

KPE Episode 331: "The Princess Test"

2010-12-01T03:53:00.000+13:00

In this humorous retelling of Hans Christian Andersen's "The Princess and the Pea," Lorelei must pass many difficult tests in order to prove that she is a true princess and win the hand of Prince Nicholas. Mubasshira and Jarna from Room 17 do a great job of bringing this book to life through their podcast....

KPE Episode 330: "Scary Story"

2010-11-30T22:49:00.000+13:00

Starford and Waata have enjoyed yet another of Joy Cowley's wonderful books written for New Zealand kids.

Ross Beansack, the big hairy author, has been asked by young readers to write a story about ghosts. The very modern publisher is horrified when she hears of his plans. "We don't do ghosts," she says. "Go back home and save the rainforest." Ross Beansack sets off to do his own research in the local haunted house ...

KPE Episode 329: "Treasure Deep"

2010-11-30T08:19:00.001+13:00

Litia and Ashleigh have brought us a podcast about another one of David Hill's fabulous books - Treasure Deep.

Glyn and Api are best mates, they always have been. That they come from different backgrounds, Api is Maori and Glyn is Pakeha, is something that neither has given a thought to, until now. But problems start to appear, and Colin the Cop doesn't help matters. The boys make a scary discovery in nearby sandhills, which turns their world upside down.

KPE Episode 328: "Black Gold"

2010-11-29T21:01:00.000+13:00

Darius and Crusader bring us this novel by Julia Owen for their latest KPE podcast.

Ollie and Rimu have been planning and dreaming about their week at the coast for two months - one week of fishing, swimming, and camping all by themselves. No adults, far away from the rest of the world, free to do whatever they want, whenever they want.

Equipped with only the bare essentials, they head off into the dawn for what would turn out to be a much more exciting and dangerous adventure than they had dared to hope for.

Other people had set up camp in their cave! These people were armed and very dangerous-looking. Whatever they were up to, they had nearly finished and were making ready to leave very soon.

When Ollie was captured, Rimu has to use his wits to out-think the crooks.

Aided by the abused Storm, he set in action a daring plan to rescue Ollie, free the contraband and escape the clutches of the avenging poachers.

We know you will enjoy this book...

KPE Episode 327: "The War of the Worlds"

2010-11-29T20:44:00.000+13:00

"The War of the Worlds" by HG Wells is a world famous science fiction classic and this version of his book is retold by Pauline Francis. This is the story of large metal cylinders which fall to earth, signalling the beginning of a Martian invasion. The Martians gradually take over London and the surrounding area, causing death and destruction.

Kayde and Matthew T from Room 17 have really enjoyed reading this and share their thoughts in this podcast.

KPE Episode 326: "Yo, Shark Bait"

2010-11-29T18:45:00.000+13:00

Rory has always loved fishing. He loves getting out on the water and enjoys

the thrill of reeling in a really big fish. But everything changes when Rory goes

out with his family during a fishing competition. His Uncle Eddie hooks a huge

shark and Rory accidentally falls in the water. Luckily, a petrified Rory is

rescued before the shark can do any damage, but the incident affects him

deeply. He begins to suffer from anxiety and panic attacks. Fishing no longer

holds the same appeal.

After this incident occurs Rory’s school principal puts him in charge of

organising the school’s fishing competition. Rory can’t face the idea of going

out on the water again, but feels he has to organise the event or he will look

foolish in front of his peers. Rory forms a committee which includes his best

friend Sam, a new student called Susi and two other girls called Adele and

Christine. To Rory’s horror, Mr Lonigan insists that Rory’s archenemy Bart

also be involved. Bart knows about Rory’s encounter with the shark and takes

every opportunity to taunt him about it......

This is a very exciting story and Aidan and Matthew have lots more to share in this podcast. Check it out...

KPE Episode 325: "Aristotle"

2010-11-10T08:32:00.002+13:00

Aristotle is the story of a little kitten who did not know that cats have nine lives. His mother decided to let him go to his new home totally unaware of this important fact. Her decision was based on the realisation that he was much bolder than his brothers and sisters and had such an adventurous nature that she knew he would use them all at once.

When he goes to live with Bella Donna, his nine lives expire one by one at an alarming rate. Falling out of trees, down chimneys and getting trapped under milk-jugs are just some of his exploits.

Escaping from Gripper the dog and avoiding being run over by a lorry simultaneously, leaves Aristotle with his ninth and final life. Is it just a coincidence that he has survived several narrow squeaks and lives to old age or might it have something to do with the fact that Bella Donna is not just an ordinary cat-owner?

Check out this podcast by Brooklyn and Jay'Lee and tell them what you think.

KPE Episode 324 :"Alien Time"

2010-11-03T08:20:00.001+13:00

Shawn and Joe from Room 17 review "Alien Time" by Donna Malane

Jasper is a pretty normal eleven-year-old New Zealand kid, until one night he has an alien visitor, who gives him a gift that enables him to see into the future. When he discovers his Dad doesn't appear to have a future, he has to rely on his wits and friend Elliot to try and save him.

Check out their podcast and let them know what you think...

KPE Episode 323 :"Attacked"

2010-11-02T20:01:00.000+13:00

"Attacked" by G Brassi, is the story of a fishing adventure which takes place around the islands near Whitianga in Coromandel, NZ.

Joshua and Shawn from Room 17 have created this podcast.

KPE Episode 322: "Ambushed"

2010-11-01T21:02:00.000+13:00

Aidan and Joe from Room 17 share another exciting book by Fleur Beale with us in this latest podcast from KPE. Here's a little background about "Ambushed" to wet your appetitie...

Richard is the only one of his family who doesn’t want to leave Cray’s Creek. He and his friends try everything they can think of, to get his parents to change their minds, but to no avail. At his new school in his new town, Richard finds it impossible to make friends. Both his sisters seem to have no trouble at all. He is lonely, bored and very homesick when a group of boys take him under their wings. Unfortunately for them, when they try to bully Richard they find he is not going to become a another of their victims. Richard sets out to orchestrate ‘the revenge of the newcomers’ – and there is no shortage of willing accomplices.