Info Trail provides a clearly structured scheme of 54 books covering themes from science, history and geography. In each of these strands there is a mix of text types, including recount, explanation and argument, resourcing children’s encounters with each of the writing types recommended in the National Literacy Strategy.

The organisation into four clear reading bands makes the overall scheme easy to manage. Each title is clearly illustrated with striking photographs and attractive artwork.

The range of titles should prompt children’s curiosity. Tongues, for example, provides a fascinating insight into a neglected subject. There are also innovative titles, such as The Birthday Treasure Hunt, and a geography title in which readers use map-reading skills such as keys and scales to join in the adventure.

The texts contain clear elements of non-fiction, including contents pages and an index. Each book is also supported by a teaching anthology for use in a shared context.

At a time when many schools are refining reading but pooling a lot of effort into the development of writing, this resource has much to offer. The range of text types provides a useful support to developing children’s understanding of how writing can be structured and creates the potential for a clear link between reading and writing.