The Naming of Tishkin Silk (Kingdom of Silk)

(The first book in the Kingdom of Silk series. Griffin has...)

The first book in the Kingdom of Silk series. Griffin has a secret in his heart that nobody else knows - until he meets Layla.Griffin Silk is from an uncommon sort of family, parents Ben and Annie Silk have a brood of five daughters ('the Rainbow Girls'), a son named Griffin, Griffin's best friend Layla who 'might as well be a Silk', Nell - the 'tiny bit magic' fairy grandmother. When he meets Layla, a princess with a daisy chain crown, he knows he's found a friend. So Griffin shares his inner thoughts with her and together they find a way to deal with his secret. Just like the mythical beast whose name he bears, Griffin discovers he has the courage of a lion. But it will take a friend like Layla to help him find the answers. This unique and tender novel is the first book in Glenda Millard's multi-award-winning Kingdom of Silk series, and will touch the heart of every reader. Through these whimsical, lyrical stories, Glenda Millard writes about families like no other writer writes about families. The books explore important themes of love, loss, friendships, home and belonging, in ways that pull at the heartstrings but are never over-sentimental. Honey for the soul. REVIEWS: "Poignant and lovely. Millard has that rare gift of making you feel in a few pages that you've known these characters, and this place, always." -- INDEPENDENT ON SUNDAY (BEST CHILDREN'S BOOKS). "This is a special, lyrical and lovely story. It gives you a vibrant sense of the countryside, and even more, it takes you inside the mind of an ordinary but most extraordinary boy, Griffin Silk. It will surely touch your heart." -- BERLIE DOHERTY, DOUBLE CARNEGIE MEDAL WINNER. "Soft, dreamy and slightly Bohemian. Sad yet hopeful, it's hard not to shed a tear at the end. Would read aloud well, engaging discussion. A real surprise. (A book of the week.)" -- PETERS EDUCATIONAL BOOKS. "The Naming of Tishkin Silk is a truly beautiful story of loss, hope, strength and love. Her depictions of rural Australia are stunning; the reader can nearly feel the heat of the sun through the branches of the apple tree. A splendid and unforgettable read." -- LIBRARY MICE. "A gorgeous read with some of the best scene setting I've ever read and with a family I adore. Even better, it's the first in a series!" -- BOOKA UHA'S BOOK NOOK. " 'Griffin came into the Silk family after Scarlet, Indigo, Violet, Amber and Saffron. He came early in the morning on that uncommon day, the twenty-ninth of February. His father's prediction, considering the date of Griffin's birth, was that he would be an uncommon sort of boy.' With these words The Naming of Tishkin Silk by Glenda Millard starts weaving gentle magic around your unsuspecting heart. Griffin is a member of the somewhat unusual and perhaps slightly bohemian Silk family, who live on the outskirts of a small Australian town. Griffin carries a secret deep inside him, a huge worry that he finds hard to share until he meets Layla, instantly recognisable to him as a princess because she is wearing a daisy-chain crown. Thanks to the thoughtfulness shown by his new friend, Griffin's courage grows and together they do something that heals the sorrow which all the family has felt after a terrible event no-one has been able to talk about for months. Just like Griffin, this is a truly "uncommon" short novel, the first in a seven part series. From unexpected characters to profoundly moving themes threaded together with sometimes astonishingly lyrical writing, this book is something utterly different and incredibly beautiful. I have never before come across such delicate and yet powerful writing in a novel for children. Unique, breathtaking and full of fierce love and deep sorrow, The Naming of Tishkin Silk is the sort of book that changes you forever, the sort of book you are just so glad to have inside you, to enrich even the happiest of days and to sustain you on dark nights. The dual aspect of this novel - intense sadness and intense happiness - reminded me of a passage in The Prophet by Khalil Gibran about joy and sorrow; "the deeper that sorrow carves into your being, the more joy you can contain.". Whilst this book deals with some of the most difficult themes you're likely to come across in books for its target age range (approximately 8-12), Millard does it with such quiet tenderness that it doesn't overwhelm. Indeed, like the adult characters inside the book, Millard enters the world children inhabit without patronising them, but rather with immense respect, sincerity and creativity. The stories we tell ourselves in an attempt to make sense of the world around us, adjusting to different family setups when new babies are born, sibling jealousy, and the value of having space and taking time to think form some of the varied threads woven throughout this precious book. Never once soppy or sentimental, Millard writes with honesty and integrity about deep and loving emotions. This is a tremendous book for exploring kindness and empathy. It's Australian setting is lightly but evocatively worn, grounding the somewhat enchanted story in a very real time and place. Yes, my praise for this book goes on and on! And yet, when this book first arrived in my home, I shelved it in a dusty corner. I judged the book by its cover, and the cover did not work for me at all (Caroline Magerl illustrated this first book in the series, but subsequent volumes have been illustrated by Stephen Michael King). It looked airy-fairy, hippy-dippy, saccharine and syrupy and not like something I would enjoy. Someone whose judgement I trust, however, kept telling me I should read the book. Pig-headedly, I kept ignoring this advice. But what a fool I was! Tishkin could have been part of me for two whole extra years if I had listened and not let my prejudices sway me. For once I had read the book, I was utterly smitten. I could not get hold of the rest of the series quickly enough. If, however, I still had a niggling doubt, it was about how children would respond to these books. Subtle and yet emotionally complex, featuring an unusual family, and dealing with issues as varied as death, illness, fostering, immigration and dementia over the course of the books now available in the UK (the 6th title in the series, The Tender Moments of Saffron Silk, is published next week on World Book Day, and the final will be available in September this year), I was very curious as to how young people, rather than adults would respond to these books. I only have one child's response to call upon, but M, my ten year old, has taken these stories to her heart as much as I have. She's read each one in a single sitting, and whilst she agrees they are indeed full of sadness, they are also "really funny and playful", "just the sort of family I want ours to be like". She has SO many plans for implementing aspects of these stories into our lives, from making the recipes which feature throughout the series, to adopting the special breakfast rituals the Silk Family has into our own home, from making our own paper to consecrating an apple tree for tea parties, from collecting shiny foil to painting special poems on walls and doors. I think I shall be posting our activities, our Kingdom of silk playing by the book for a long time to come on the blog! As it is, we've already got our own green rubber gloves with red nail polish..." -- PLAYING BY THE BOOK.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/190791224X/?tag=2022091-20

A Small Free Kiss in the Dark (Chinese Edition)

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/9866807894/?tag=2022091-20

(Layla Queen of Hearts * * ) Author: Glenda Millard May-2013

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B010BCZ7B8/?tag=2022091-20

(A Small Free Kiss in the Dark ) Author: Glenda Millard May-2011

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B010BCZF4C/?tag=2022091-20

Layla Queen of Hearts (Kingdom of Silk)

(Book two in the award-winning Kingdom of Silk series. A f...)

Book two in the award-winning Kingdom of Silk series. A friend like Layla comes along once in a lifetime. Griffin's Daddy used to say that Layla had been sent to comfort them after Tishkin went away, 'like an arm about their shoulders, a candle in the dark or like golden syrup dumplings for the soul'. When Senior Citizens' Day is announced at school, Layla wishes for someone special to take. It is then that the intriguing Miss Amelie comes into their lives. Through their new friendship, Layla and Griffin learn the importance of memories, generosity of spirit, and the small miracles that warm the heart. REVIEWS: "Poignant and lovely. Millard has that rare gift of making you feel in a few pages that you've known these characters, and this place, always." -- INDEPENDENT ON SUNDAY (BEST CHILDREN'S BOOKS). "A beautiful and touching story about an unusual friendship...A delicate and thoughtful read." -- PARENTS IN TOUCH. "Beautiful, dream-like and atmospheric drawings from illustrator Stephen Michael King complement Millard's unforgettable and ethereal story which is ideal to read aloud to younger children and guaranteed to delight all generations of the family." -- LANCASHIRE EVENING POST.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1907912258/?tag=2022091-20

The Naming of Tishkin Silk by Glenda Millard (2009-10-13)

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01K3I1R14/?tag=2022091-20

(The Naming of Tishkin Silk * * ) Author: Glenda Millard Feb-2013

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B010BCYWFA/?tag=2022091-20

The Tender Moments of Saffron Silk (Kingdom of Silk)

(Book 6 of the Kingdom of Silk series. The books explore i...)

Book 6 of the Kingdom of Silk series. The books explore important themes of love, loss, friendships, home and belonging, in ways that pull at the heartstrings but are never over-sentimental. Honey for the soul. Everyone knows that Saffron Silk has a talent for pretending to be someone else but when the firebirds rage inside her head, and it hurts even to breathe, Saffron barely has the energy to be herself.Saffron's family don't know about the firebirds that come to warn her of terrible headaches. And Saffron doesn't know how to tell them. But her brother Perry Angel has learnt to read hearts and recognise tender moments, and Perry knows that Saffron is frightened.Frightened of what might be wrong with her and afraid that she might have to leave the Kingdom of Silk forever...In Glenda Millard's beautifully written and multi-award-winning Kingdom of Silk series, we meet the uncommon Silk family. Parents Ben and Annie Silk have a brood of five daughters ('the Rainbow Girls'), a son named Griffin, Griffin's best friend Layla who 'might as well be a Silk', Nell - the 'tiny bit magic' fairy grandmother, and Perry Angel - an adopted son who joins the Silk family. REVIEWS: "Every action, every sentiment, every character amongst the pages of this book is a manifesto for family, for joy, for being kind, for never failing to show someone you love them, and for never ever failing to recognise the tiny tender moments that make one's life complete.Those tiny tender moments, they are those that "make the soul tipsy with ordinary happiness". This is why I love this series so much; it reminds us that true happiness is found in the simplest things." -- LIBRARY MICE. "Millard weaves difficult issues in a non-threatening way, but her language is so lyrical and poetic (but without lashings of sentimentality) you cannot helped but be moved." -- SHARON F JONES BLOG. "Like with many other books I review I ended up reading book first, then the previous 4/5 books, then I reread this one. I'm glad I was able to read the others (thanks to the lovely publicist), because my initial thoughts were that Saffron's father was a bit of a lunatic, her family was a bit too wacky, and I didn't entirely understand the various relationships. The first time round I fully related to Saffron's fear of what was wrong with her, just because it is so scary having your body do things which you've no control over & don't understand. The care and support of her friends and family made me cry (I cry when I'm happy, sad, & overwhelmed), especially that of Perry whose personal sacrifice I fully understood when I read the stories where he first appears. This entire series is such a sweet read, covering emotionally complex issues in a way that makes sense. I want a grandmother like Nell! She is heaps of fun, sees the positive in everything, and knows that not everyone can learn the same way, which is why Perry ends up being homeschooled 2 days a week and attending school for the rest. It is never openly said (as far as I can remember) but it's obvious that Perry has some form of Autism or Aspergers, and the way his adopted brother and sisters view him is touching. I loved how Layla brightens everyone's life after their dear sister Tishkin passes away. I admire Saffron's parents for sticking with their way of life and not minding what other people think, for picking meaningful names, for being able to follow their dreams. Liking handicrafts made me like Saffron's dad being a wood carver and a baker - the naming books sounds exquisite! This is a series I'll reread because they are touching, and the illustrations heighten the meaning behind the story. A family focused read with lots of grandmother magic!" -- NAYU'S READING CORNER. "Glenda Millard's Kingdom of Silk books have won many awards in her native Australia, and no wonder: there are very few books, for children or adults, which describe love so clearly or so lyrically. There are seven books in the series, The Tender Moments of Saffron Silk is number six, and it is definitely worth reading them all, and in order, to really get to know the Silks. They are an uncommon lot: the rest of the world might see them as eccentric, even weird, that doesn't bother them at all. Parents Ben and Annie have five daughters ('the Rainbow Girls'), a son named Griffin and an adopted son, Perry Angel, who joins the family midway through the series. Nell is 'the tiny bit magic' grandmother, and Layla, Griffin's best friend, understands them so well she 'might as well be a Silk'. They live on a beautiful plot of land in the Australian countryside, and Millard evokes the sense of place beautifully. Each book describes a different event in their lives, but the emphasis is always on themes of love, friendship and belonging. In The Tender Moments of Saffron Silk, Saffron, the youngest and most dreamy of the Rainbow Girls isn't well. She has terrible headaches, accompanied by blinding lights she thinks of as firebirds. The Silks have already lost one daughter, baby Tishkin, and everyone is scared for Saffron. Little Perry is the one to realise just how frightened Saffron herself is though, and to work out what special help she needs. Everything ends well, and a small Silk miracle takes place at the hospital. Millard has a light touch and avoids sentimentality, this is another beautiful and affecting read." -- LOVEREADING.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1907912320/?tag=2022091-20

Layla, Queen of Hearts

( When Layla's school announces a Senior Citizens' Day, L...)

When Layla's school announces a Senior Citizens' Day, Layla is at a loss. Who can she take? Her friend Griffin Silk offers to share his grandmother, Nell, but Layla desperately wants someone of her own. So Nell introduces Layla to Miss Amelie and a friendship begins. Layla soon learns that Miss Amelie has problems with her memory. Layla is determined to help―and a small but significant miracle occurs in this warm and loving novel about the healing power of friendship. Layla, Queen of Hearts is a 2011 Bank Street - Best Children's Book of the Year.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0374343608/?tag=2022091-20

All the Colours of Paradise (Kingdom of Silk)

(The fourth book in the Kingdom of Silk series. Since his ...)

The fourth book in the Kingdom of Silk series. Since his arrival at the Kingdom of Silk, Perry Angel has learned a lot about love. Apart from dressing up as Superman, Perry's favourite thing in the entire universe is drawing. But then something happens, and his friends are worried that he might never draw again. Mr Kadri from the Colour Patch Cafe understands that sometimes there are no words to describe our feelings. So when he announces a new category at the annual art exhibition, he gives Perry all the colours of Paradise, just in case he needs them. - REVIEWS - "If you haven't heard of the Kingdom of Silk books then it's high time you discovered them, as the series is going from strength to strength. Author Glenda Miller's latest instalment All The Colours of Paradise focuses on the story of Perry Angel, who is still finding his feet the world with the help of the Silk family.Addressing themes of love, understanding and family, it's an insightful and affecting read for older children, while avoiding heavy-handed sentimentality or cliche.Peppered with gorgeous little illustrations by Stephen Michael King, fans of the Kingdom of Silk will not be disappointed by the fourth in the series. Although it may feel like a rather long wait until the fifth book hits bookshelves in September" -- Alison Potter, JUNIOR MAGAZINE. "Most of the story is seen through Perry's eyes, as he adjusts to his new life and surroundings and this gives the text a moving undertone of innocence. Witnessing Perry's gradual realization that his new family and friends deeply care about him is poignant to say the least. As he struggles to make sense of his feelings, his musing, such as "Love is like chocolate, melting in the quiet dark inside of you", have the power to choke up even the most hardened adult reader. But while the writing is always deeply emotional, it is never becomes sentimental. The Silks epitomize the goodness of people, the importance of family, of celebrating difference, but the story is never sappy. Sad and joyous, yes. Full of yearning, love for those lost, yes. But never over-sentimental.Issues of bullying, fitting in, learning difficulties and even teenage pregnancy are dealt with with a lightness of touch which is all the more effective. Millard's deceptively simple style is like honey to one's soul. Rarely has a series of books had such an effect on me. Never have I felt such yearning to be part of a fictional family. Never have I cried both of sorrow and elation as much as I have with every single book in this series. It really is a magnificent series" -- Melanie McGilloway, LIBRARY MICE. "Told with real empathy and a deep understanding of family relationships and our inbuilt need for friendship, this is a gentle and charming story" -- PARENTS IN TOUCH

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1907912304/?tag=2022091-20

The Naming of Tishkin Silk

( Griffin Silk is an uncommon boy, from an uncommon sort ...)

Griffin Silk is an uncommon boy, from an uncommon sort of family—but lately Griffin isn’t so sure that’s a good thing. If he were an ordinary boy, he wouldn’t have to worry about the secret in his heart and maybe he would understand why his mother and baby sister have gone away. When Griffin starts school and meets the spirited Princess Layla, a once-in-lifetime friend who can heal souls, the answers to his questions gently start to unfold. And just like the mythical beast whose name he bears, Griffin discovers that he has uncommon courage and the heart of a lion. Sweet black-and-white illustrations enrich this heartwarming story about love, loss, friendship, and the importance of family.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0374354812/?tag=2022091-20

Mbobo Tree

(In the cleft of a rock, on the crest of a hill, grows a t...)

In the cleft of a rock, on the crest of a hill, grows a tree that belongs to no-one and to everyone. When a little baby girl is found swinging in the branches of the tree, the villagers name her Tiranamba Adesimbo Mbobo and love her as if she were their own. But Tiranamba never speaks a word. When the life-giving tree is threatened, Tiranamba finds her voice, and her bravery saves the village.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1847801196/?tag=2022091-20

The Tender Moments of Saffron Silk (Kingdom of Silk) by Millard, Glenda (2015) Paperback

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00YW4TMFO/?tag=2022091-20

A Small Free Kiss in the Dark

(New)

New

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004MKC610/?tag=2022091-20

When the Angels Came

(Will is desperate to cheer his grandpa up, but how? When ...)

Will is desperate to cheer his grandpa up, but how? When Will's Grandpa Jack has a stroke and can no longer live on his beloved farm, it seems like nothing interests him except causing trouble, or planning his escape from the nursing home where he now lives. Will is desparate to cheer his grandpa up, but how? then Will meets the motor-bike riding tansy and her mysterious angels! Ages 6+.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005WNUBQ8/?tag=2022091-20

A Small Free Kiss in the Dark

(Two young boys, an old tramp, a beautiful teenage dancer,...)

Two young boys, an old tramp, a beautiful teenage dancer, and the girl's baby--ragtag survivors of a sudden war--form a fragile family, hiding out in the ruins of an amusement park. As they scavenge for good, diapers, and baby formula, they must stay out of sight of vicious gangs and lawless soldiers. At first they rely on Billy, the only adult in the group. But as civil life deteriorates, Billy starts to fall apart. Skip, who is barely into his teens, must take over and lead them on a search for sanctuary. This complex and haunting exploration of life on the edge and what it takes to triumph over adversity is a story about the indomitable nature of hope.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/082342264X/?tag=2022091-20

(Mbobo Tree ) Author: Glenda Millard Oct-2010

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B010BCYK8O/?tag=2022091-20