This new 2007 edition of the Oxford Junior Illustrated Thesaurus contains entries in alphabetical order, with 20,000 imaginative and adventurous synonyms with supporting example sentences. It also features useful panels focussing on overused words and writing tips. The pages are clear, accessible and include new photographs and illustrations. The full alphabet appears on every page with a coloured tab on the letter of the page - plus the thesaurus quartiles are picked out in vibrant colours. Together, these are invaluable navigation tools for children practising their alphabet skills. Guidewords also appear on every page. Extra material at the back is accurately levelled to the curriculum for this age. The Top 10 Tips for Writing Stories are excellent. More help for better writing is given with the tips for spelling success, punctuation, simple grammar, and character and setting vocabulary.

Sheila Dignen