Deborah Abela’s Book Recommendations

We couldn’t share Deborah Abela’s story without asking for her favourite book recommendations. From scruffy dogs to clever orphans and courageous monsters, here are Deborah’s top picks to add to your reading list…

1. Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo (Age 7–12)
Deborah loves this gentle story about a young girl who moves to a new town with her quiet, preacher father, and makes friends with a large, scruffy dog. Together, they help bring an entire community closer — a heartwarming reminder that sometimes, the right friend can change everything.

2. A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness (Age 10+, note: deals with grief)
This moving story follows a young boy facing the heartbreak of his mother’s illness. When a monster appears at his window, it begins telling him fables that help him face the inevitable with courage and kindness. A powerful, emotional read that stays with you.

3. Withering-by-Sea by Judith Rossell (Age 8–12)
Beautifully illustrated and cleverly written, this adventure follows a young girl who leaves an orphanage for a mysterious school for smart, resourceful girls — and helps outwit dangerous criminals along the way.

4. A Series of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket (Age 7–12)
A wonderfully funny, dark series about three orphaned siblings who must use their wits to stay one step ahead of the scheming Count Olaf. Clever, quirky, and filled with unexpected twists.

What Will You Read Next?

A huge thanks to Deborah for sharing her favourite reads with us! Have you discovered any of these yet? Maybe your next great story is waiting on one of these pages…