Following the hugely successful Kings and Monkeys , Ugly Bugs and Apple Trees is another collection of stories for primary school assemblies, telling the tales of kings and farmers, tailors and apple trees, brothers and neigh­bours, and many more besides.

The tales are funny, poignant and thought-provoking. Each story is followed by a concluding piece which explores the theme and provides food for thought for those moments of reflection in assembly. The theme is explored in general terms and then with a Christian emphasis, so that those leading the assembly may choose the most appro­priate for their situation.

The stories are equally useful as a valuable PSHME (Personal, Social, Health and Moral Education) resource. Each story can be used as a starting point to help consider a particular issue. In addition, there is a selection of questions at the end of each story to aid or prompt discussion.

However you choose to use this book, it will provide an accessible, fun and stress-free resource for the busy teacher.

The assemblies are:

• The king's new gift
• Frank and Ernest
• The king who had no time to be king
• The new king
• A good neighbour
• The rich man's gift
• The tailor and the apple tree
• The two brothers
• Cedric and the beautiful garden
• Farmer Joe
• Two ugly bugs
• Simon, swiftest sword this side of Swainsford