The front cover of the book 'But There Is No E in Phonics!' by Chiquita J Arnot. The cover has a pink background, showing a classroom setting with a blackboard, blue chair, clock & desk with papers and pens.

Meet Mrs Belvedere. An experienced if somewhat jaded teacher.

Every September she begins the new academic year with a mixed feeling of hope and curiosity. Oh, and a touch of cynicism.

Let’s face it, it can’t be any worse than last year, can it? The incident with the stick insects is just a dim and distant memory.

Journey with her as she navigates her way through endless meetings and ‘new’ initiatives. Meet the children who cause her incredulity and amusement in equal measure. Encounter the staff who will help and support, as well as those who...won’t.

‘But There Is No Ef In Phonics’

£11.99

  • This book captures the highs, lows and hilarious moments of the academic year in a primary school. From the young, innocent children to the seasoned, battle-weary staff, the characters are expertly and wittily described; you won't want to put it down!

    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    Sara, Chelmsford, Essex

  • It’s a book that is unshowy, deeply human, and told with the kind of authenticity that can’t be faked… written with heart, clarity, and care.

    Edward Couzens-Lake

    Read his full review, here.

  • Hilariously observant insight into the simplicity of childhood, the dedication of (often weary) teachers and importance of being able to find something to laugh about Believable characters which no doubt are present in every school up and down the country- a brilliant debut novel!

    ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

    Jane, Braintree, Essex

Modern wooden house with stone steps and a landscaped outdoor area in a mountainous setting during sunset.

The Story Behind The Story

Writing a book was not on my agenda. Although I had jokingly mentioned to a couple of colleagues that once retired, I would write a book about how illogical teaching phonics is, from a language which is not phonetic. The word ‘phonics’ begins with a ‘pee’ for crying out loud, and it goes downhill from there!

The English language is phonetic-ish. But there are so many rules and inconsistencies which make it challenging to read and write.

Young children are starting school with a low level of English language, arguably because they are not spoken to enough. They lack the richness of words; their complexities, nuance, tone, purpose. They certainly don’t need to know the clutter of new vocabulary required before they have a grip of the basics.

I think the character portrayed as Mrs Belvedere, is who I would have liked to have been as a teacher. I hope she can hang in a for a few years yet…

FAQs

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about my debut novel ‘But There Is No Ef In Phonics’.

If your question isn’t answered here, please do get in touch by clicking the button below.

  • Yes, definitely!

    It’s currently being written and if you sign up to my newsletter, you’ll be the first to hear about when it is released!

  • No!

    I have worked for seven headteachers, and got on with all of them. They all had different strengths which I could learn from.

  • My husband, Mr Moston was born in Coventry and had supported them for many years. I follow them, and make regular trips to home games.

  • Yes, and my whole family loved it.

    (P.S - Cromer features again quite a bit in my second book…)