Books by Cressida Cowell

Book SynopsisThe hilarious exploits of Hiccup Horrendous Haddock the Third - the smallish Viking with a longish name. Can he become the Hero everyone expects him to be? Read the HILARIOUS books that inspired the HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON films!Trade ReviewThis is a maniacally crazy story liberally spattered with appropriately riotous illustrations, lists and maps * Books For Keeps *This is a maniacally crazy story liberally spattered with appropriately riotous illustrations, lists and maps * Books For Keeps *It's a wonderfully vibrant story, illustrated with the author's hilarious drawings, and told with a delightfully gobby sense of humour * Books Quarterly (Waterstones) *It's a wonderfully vibrant story, illustrated with the author's hilarious drawings, and told with a delightfully gobby sense of humour * Books Quarterly (Waterstones) *Cowell is a new star in children's fiction * The Times *Cowell is a new star in children's fiction * The Times *Great jokes and suberb characters will appeal to boys and girls alike * With Kids *Great jokes and suberb characters will appeal to boys and girls alike * With Kids *Very funny indeed * Maidenhead Advertiser *Very funny indeed * Maidenhead Advertiser *Witty writing and funny drawings and notes ensure that this clever Viking story keeps its readers laughing * Junior Education *Witty writing and funny drawings and notes ensure that this clever Viking story keeps its readers laughing * Junior Education *CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE WEEK: 'This book is great fun and has a Blackadderish sense of humour ... full of the sort of jokes that will make schoolboys snigger.' * Nicolette Jones, The Sunday Times *A wonderfully wittily written and illustrated story. * Waterstones Quarterly Magazine *A wonderful adventure * The School Librarian *A wonderful adventure * The School Librarian *How to Train Your Dragon is a delightful narrative caper... It offers a challenging read to 11-year-olds, and rewards reading aloud, especially for those who relish an element of theatre at story time. * Lindsey Fraser, Sunday Herald, Glasgow *[Cressida Cowell] puts a contemporary spin on the old brains over brawn moral and brings the story to a climax with a thrilling dragon duel. Lots for lots of different readers to enjoy. * Books for Keeps *... raucous and slapstick... liberally illustrated with [Cressida Cowell's] riotous drawings, notes and maps. * The Financial Times *Bulging with good jokes, funny drawings and dramatic scenes, it is absolutely wonderful. * Independent on Sunday *An excellent sequel to How to Train Your Dragon, this highly amusing adventure story with a dash of toilet humour is perfect reading for boys and girls alike aged 8-12. * Publishing News *Full of madcap action, to-the-death battles and hysterical Viking tomfooleryCowell is a new star in children's fiction * The Times *extraordinary, funny and cool * Tom Dillon, Mill Lane Primary School *good holiday reading for any young adventurer * Reading evening post *As the tension mounts, an hilarious and warming story emerges. It cries to be read aloud. * The School Librarian *A maniacally crazy story liberally spattered with . . . riotous illustrations, lists and maps. * Books For Keeps *'Irresistibly funny, exciting and endearing' * The Times *'If you haven't discovered Hiccup yet, you're missing out on one of the greatest inventions of modern children's literature.' * Julia Eccleshare, Guardian children's editor *

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Book SynopsisThe second adventure in the gripping and mysterious eco-adventure series The Light Thieves from Helena Duggan, bestselling author of A Place Called Perfect. 'Fizzling with ideas, (The Light Thieves is) a wildly imaginative adventure which reads like a blockbuster movie.' - Christopher EdgeOnly kids can save the world. The sun's light is being stolen. It's a catastrophe for the planet and every living thing on it! Friends Grian, Jeffrey and Shelli are desperately trying to work out how it's happening. They know tech genius Howard Hansom is behind the theft and they're determined to stop him. But they can't use any of Hansom's smart technology in their quest as it will track them wherever they go. The three young heroes need to find a strange black mirror to help them save the sun. Time is running out. Can kids really save the world? 'The Light Thieves is a feast of fun, fiction, fantasy and fear. Opens with a bang and never lets up until the last page. I loved it.' - Eoin Colfer

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Book SynopsisRead the HILARIOUS books that inspired the HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON films! Hiccup Horrendous Haddock the Third is a smallish Viking with a longish name. Hiccup''s father is chief of the Hairy Hooligan tribe which means Hiccup is the Hope and the Heir to the Hairy Hooligan throne - but most of the time Hiccup feels like a very ordinary boy, finding it hard to be a Hero. Hiccup''s best friend Fishlegs thinks he has a nasty cold, but Old Wrinkly has diagnosed . . . VORPENTITIS, caused by the sting of a Venomous Vorpent, which is pretty much ALWAYS FATAL!The only antidote is the Vegetable-that-No-one-Dares-Name - the POTATO. But the only way for Hiccup to find the cure is to face Norbert the Nutjob and the terrifying Sea Dragon, the DOOMFANG. Can Hiccup survive the quest to save his best friend - and discover how to cheat a dragon''s curse?How to Train Your Dragon is a major award-winning DreamWorks film series. There is also a new live action movie due to be released in 2025. The TV series, Riders of Berk, can be seen on CBeebies and Cartoon Network.Trade ReviewOutrageously funny and inventive, here's a novel with huge appeal...It's hard to beat this story for sheer entertainment and larger than life, distinctive - and differentiated - characters * Books For Keeps *Outrageously funny and inventive, here's a novel with huge appeal...It's hard to beat this story for sheer entertainment and larger than life, distinctive - and differentiated - characters * Books For Keeps *Jam-packed with clever jokes and humorous drawings and scenes, it is just the ticket for hours of bedtime reading * Shetland Times *Jam-packed with clever jokes and humorous drawings and scenes, it is just the ticket for hours of bedtime reading * Shetland Times *Fiercely exciting and laugh-aloud funny * The Times *Fiercely exciting and laugh-aloud funny * The Times *Another rip-rollocking tale with crazy characters, juicy dialogue and graphic, scratchy illustrations * Junior *'Outrageously funny and inventive ... a novel with huge appeal ... It's hard to beat this story for sheer entertainment and larger than life, distinctive - and differentiated characters.' * Books for Keeps *Another rip-rollocking tale with crazy characters, juicy dialogue and graphic, scratchy illustrations * Junior *'Fiercely exciting and laugh-aloud funny, it is as full of joy for children of 7+ who have given up reading as for those who love it.' * Amanda Craig, The Times *CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE WEEK: This book is great fun and has a Blackadderish sense of humour ... full of the sort of jokes that will make schoolboys snigger. * Nicolette Jones, The Sunday Times *How to Train Your Dragon is a delightful narrative caper... It offers a challenging read to 11-year-olds, and rewards reading aloud, especially for those who relish an element of theatre at story time. * Sunday Herald, Glasgow *... raucous and slapstick ... liberally illustrated with [Cressida Cowell's] riotous drawings, notes and maps. * The Financial Times *[Cressida Cowell] puts a contemporary spin on the old brains over brawn moral and brings the story to a climax with a thrilling dragon duel. Lots for lots of different readers to enjoy. * Books for Keeps *Bulging with good jokes, funny drawings and dramatic scenes, it is absolutely wonderful. * Independent on Sunday *Rollicking fun with a whiff of the past. * Guardian *'If you haven't discovered Hiccup yet, you're missing out on one of the greatest inventions of modern children's literature.' * Julia Eccleshare, Guardian children's editor *

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Book SynopsisThe hilarious exploits of Hiccup Horrendous Haddock the Third - the smallish Viking with a longish name. Can he become the Hero everyone expects him to be? Read the bestselling series that inspired the hit DreamWorks film How to Train Your Dragon.Trade ReviewHighly original. Uproarious. * Woman's Weekly * 'What a fab book ... will definitely make you laugh out loud!' * Torquay Herald Express * 'If you haven't discovered Hiccup yet, you're missing out on one of the greatest inventions of modern children's literature.' * Julia Eccleshare, Guardian children's editor * Cowell writes laugh-out-loud books with plenty of boy appeal. Cowell's anarchic drawings suit the slapstick humour. * The Herald * Bulging with good jokes, funny drawings and dramatic scenes, it is absolutely wonderful. * Independent on Sunday * 'a hilarious and gripping adventure, beautifully paced and studded with great dramatic scenes.' * Amanda Craig, Times * [Cressida Cowell] puts a contemporary spin on the old brains over brawn moral and brings the story to a climax with a thrilling dragon duel. Lots for lots of different readers to enjoy. * Books for Keeps * ... raucous and slapstick ... liberally illustrated with [Cressida Cowell's] riotous drawings, notes and maps. * The Financial Times * How to Train Your Dragon is a delightful narrative caper... It offers a challenging read to 11-year-olds, and rewards reading aloud, especially for those who relish an element of theatre at story time. * Sunday Herald, Glasgow * CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE WEEK: This book is great fun and has a Blackadderish sense of humour ... full of the sort of jokes that will make schoolboys snigger. * Nicolette Jones, The Sunday Times * Fiercely exciting and laugh-aloud funny, it is as full of joy for children of 7+ who have given up reading as for those who love it. * Amanda Craig, The Times * '... inspired series ... its enchantment lies primarily in the comical, affectionate and often irritable relationship between Hiccup (the only nerd in the violent Viking Hooligan tribe) and his runty little dragon Toothless.' * Amanda Craig, The Times * 'another triumph from the creative pen of Cressida Cowell.' * Writeaway.org * '... full of charm ... imaginative and bursting with inventive, off-the-wall humour, making them great stories to be read aloud.' * Waterstones Books Quarterly * ' The combination of cartoons with sharp wit is what makes this book so uniquely special.' * Books Quaterly (Waterstones) * Has a good story to it -- Jamie, aged 9 * Daily Record * Descriptive and flowing, Cowell's Dragon novels have become deserved hits at the cinema, too. * Time Out * Cressida Cowell's How to Train Your Dragon books fill every spread with scales and fangs and typographical jeux d'esprit * The Independent * Cowell is a master of storytelling...On a profound level, this series celebrates divergence and being true to oneself, teaching children that they don't have to be carbon copies of their parents * Hay Festival of the Arts * Wise, colourful and funny * Dorset Echo * Funny, thrilling and ideal for children needing to discover the hero inside themselves * The Times * Cressida Cowell's series of the memoirs of Hiccup the Viking are funny, outrageous and will lure in the most reluctant reader * The Spectator * Top stuff * The Daily Telegraph * Gripping adventure stories complete with quests and battles, a vivdly imagined alternative world * The Daily Telegraph * This book will definitely make you laugh out loud * Torquay Herald Express * Cowell's wittily written books have become today's childhood must-read stories * Books Quarterly (Waterstones) * What we have here is Harry Potter meets Blackadder. The result is a story that anyone with a tolerance of snot and gore would find richly entertaining * The Glasgow Herald * This light-hearted, well-illustrated mock saga would appeal to girls and boys. My Dad liked it too. More please. -- Geoffrey Truscott, aged 11 * The Glasgow Herald * Bulging with good jokes, funny drawings and dramatic scenes, it is absolutely wonderful * Independent on Sunday * I can't praise this wonderful adventure too highly -- Amanda Craig * Independent on Sunday * One of the most enjoyable and original children's stories I have heard in a long time * The Independent * Her genuinely fierce, intelligent and scary dragons nearly steal the show, but Hiccup and his diminutive sidekick ultimately come out on top, both displaying a proper hero's mix of quick wit, courage and loyalty * Kirkus * The start of the most original series for kids in ages. Funny, clever and great for the whole family to share * Dundee Courier * A laugh out loud romp of a Viking adventure * Observer * Hilarious * guardian.co.uk * Proper modern classics * Sunday Express * By turns hilarious and wise, it's never predictable, brilliantly illustrated and always delightful * The Times * Filled with thrilling adventure and action-packed heroes -- Charlotte Tarling, Year 6 * Country Child * If you haven't discovered Hiccup yet, you're missing out on one of the greatest inventions of modern children's literature -- Julia Eccleshare, Guardian's children's books editor Mentioned in the 100 Best Children's Books Ever (Novels) * The Daily Telegraph * The first in the successful series... perfect for tricky boy readers, as the action scenes are first-class. * The Sunday Telegraph * Full of bright wit and brutal honesty, this is a brilliant book that launched a huge series ... This is a fantastic adventure that explores failure as well as success and weighs the cost of being different against the price of fitting in with sneaky maturity and shining humour * The List * Has a good story to it -- Jamie, aged 9 * Daily Record * Descriptive and flowing, Cowell's Dragon novels have become deserved hits at the cinema, too. * Time Out * Cressida Cowell's How to Train Your Dragon books fill every spread with scales and fangs and typographical jeux d'esprit * The Independent * Cowell is a master of storytelling...On a profound level, this series celebrates divergence and being true to oneself, teaching children that they don't have to be carbon copies of their parents * Hay Festival of the Arts * Wise, colourful and funny * Dorset Echo * Funny, thrilling and ideal for children needing to discover the hero inside themselves * The Times * Cressida Cowell's series of the memoirs of Hiccup the Viking are funny, outrageous and will lure in the most reluctant reader * The Spectator * Top stuff * The Daily Telegraph * Gripping adventure stories complete with quests and battles, a vivdly imagined alternative world * The Daily Telegraph * This book will definitely make you laugh out loud * Torquay Herald Express * Cowell's wittily written books have become today's childhood must-read stories * Books Quarterly (Waterstones) * What we have here is Harry Potter meets Blackadder. The result is a story that anyone with a tolerance of snot and gore would find richly entertaining * The Glasgow Herald * This light-hearted, well-illustrated mock saga would appeal to girls and boys. My Dad liked it too. More please. -- Geoffrey Truscott, aged 11 * The Glasgow Herald * Bulging with good jokes, funny drawings and dramatic scenes, it is absolutely wonderful * Independent on Sunday * I can't praise this wonderful adventure too highly -- Amanda Craig * Independent on Sunday * One of the most enjoyable and original children's stories I have heard in a long time * The Independent * Her genuinely fierce, intelligent and scary dragons nearly steal the show, but Hiccup and his diminutive sidekick ultimately come out on top, both displaying a proper hero's mix of quick wit, courage and loyalty * Kirkus * The start of the most original series for kids in ages. Funny, clever and great for the whole family to share * Dundee Courier * A laugh out loud romp of a Viking adventure * Observer * Hilarious * guardian.co.uk * Proper modern classics * Sunday Express * By turns hilarious and wise, it's never predictable, brilliantly illustrated and always delightful * The Times * Filled with thrilling adventure and action-packed heroes -- Charlotte Tarling, Year 6 * Country Child * If you haven't discovered Hiccup yet, you're missing out on one of the greatest inventions of modern children's literature -- Julia Eccleshare, Guardian's Children's Books Editor Mentioned in the 100 Best Children's Books Ever (Novels) * The Daily Telegraph * The first in the successful series... perfect for tricky boy readers, as the action scenes are first-class. * The Sunday Telegraph *

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Book SynopsisThe hilarious exploits of Hiccup Horrendous Haddock the Third - the smallish Viking with a longish name. Can he become the Hero everyone expects him to be? Read the bestselling series that inspired the hit DreamWorks film How to Train Your Dragon.Trade ReviewThe ninth book in Cowell's Dragon series... raises questions about courage and loyalty, and it's funny too. (The Sunday Times' 100 Best Children's Books) * The Sunday Times *The ninth book in Cowell's Dragon series... raises questions about courage and loyalty, and it's funny too. (The Sunday Times' 100 Best Children's Books) * The Sunday Times *Is, as always, thrilling, funny and brilliantly illustrated * Daily Express *Is, as always, thrilling, funny and brilliantly illustrated * Daily Express *Top stuff * The Daily Telegraph *Top stuff * The Daily Telegraph *A hilarious plot which also manages to be quite gripping...Cowell is a splendid storyteller with a gift for inventing outlandish names...ceaselessly inventive...young readers are lucky to have her * Books for Keeps *A hilarious plot which also manages to be quite gripping...Cowell is a splendid storyteller with a gift for inventing outlandish names...ceaselessly inventive...young readers are lucky to have her * Books for Keeps *Utterly fantastical but emotionally resonant * The Sunday Times *Utterly fantastical but emotionally resonant * The Sunday Times *Cowell's How to Train Your Dragon books are national treasures; this is especially good, with a wisdom about heroism which raises the series to classic status * The Times *Cowell's How to Train Your Dragon books are national treasures; this is especially good, with a wisdom about heroism which raises the series to classic status * The Times *The unique blend of child centred humour and sublime prose made Hiccup an instant hit * Read It *The unique blend of child centred humour and sublime prose made Hiccup an instant hit * Read It *Short chapters, clever slapstick, child-friendly character names ...plus goofy, childlike drawings will keep even reluctant readers engrossed, laughing and turning the pages * Writing Magazine *Short chapters, clever slapstick, child-friendly character names ...plus goofy, childlike drawings will keep even reluctant readers engrossed, laughing and turning the pages * Writing Magazine *This highly amusing adventure story with a dash of toilet humour is perfect reading for boys and girls alike * Publishing News *PRAISE FOR THE HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON BOOKS:'Fiercely exciting and laugh-aloud funny, it is as full of joy for children of 7+ who have given up reading as for those who love it.' * Amanda Craig, The Times *This highly amusing adventure story with a dash of toilet humour is perfect reading for boys and girls alike * Publishing News *CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE WEEK: This book is great fun and has a Blackadderish sense of humour ... full of the sort of jokes that will make schoolboys snigger. * Nicolette Jones, The Sunday Times *... raucous and slapstick ... liberally illustrated with [Cressida Cowell's] riotous drawings, notes and maps. * The Financial Times *[Cressida Cowell] puts a contemporary spin on the old brains over brawn moral and brings the story to a climax with a thrilling dragon duel. Lots for lots of different readers to enjoy. * Books for Keeps *'a hilarious and gripping adventure, beautifully paced and studded with great dramatic scenes.' * Amanda Craig, Times *Bulging with good jokes, funny drawings and dramatic scenes, it is absolutely wonderful. * Independent on Sunday *'If light amusement is required, Cressida Cowell's How to Break a Dragon's Heart delivers all it promises. There are lots of illustrations and a playfulness with language that will draw in even the most reluctant reader.' * Daily Telegraph *'is not only funny, well written and thrilling, but also wise about what we owe those who love us.' * The Times *'Ahead of the film of the same title due to be released next March, this is a special edition of the first book in the uproarious series about Viking Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III. Highly original, and full of useful tips for dragon-owners everywhere.' * Woman's Weekly *Top stuff. * Daily Telegraph *Especially good... raises the series to classic status. * Times *Ceaselessly inventive... young readers are lucky to have her. ***** * Books For Keeps *Always thrilling, funny and brilliantly illustrated. * Daily Express *

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Book SynopsisA classic Emily Brown bedtime story about being scared of the dark. From Children''s Laureate, Cressida Cowell.Emily Brown and her rabbit, Stanley, are trying to sleep. But a Splish-Splosh noise is keeping them awake...It''s a Thing! And this Thing just won''t go to sleep. Emily Brown and Rabbit try everything, but nothing works. Just what could be the matter?This warm and witty picture book is perfect for sharing with children who may be afraid of the dark. With a gentle message that things are never quite as scary as they first seem.It''s funny, it''s got twists and turns, and shows us, among other things, that we can spend too much time nurturing our fears rather than trying to conquer them. The GuardianTrade ReviewA fantastic tale. * North West Evening Mail *Imaginative, funky * Daily Mail *Rascally bedtime fare * Booklist Online *The illustrations are often dark and complex but they are entirely appropriate to the story * School Librarian *Cowell's narrative is both deeply rooted in the conventions of folk tale...and yet refreshingly contemporary and colloquial in tone. Such layers of richness are confidently matched by Layton's brilliantly anarchic illustrations...Emily Brown and Stanley are most appealing characters and, like Sendak's Max, more than a match for wild Things * Books for Keeps *A warm-hearted and witty take on the classic theme of being scared of the dark * Family Interest Magazine *A simple story, imaginatively reflected in wildly wonderful artwork, that will delight both old and young readers * Carousel *This is a wonderful story about a small girl dealing with a very high maintenance monster called the Thing. It's funny, it's got twists and turns and shows us, among other things, that we can spend far too much time nurturing our fears rather than trying to conquer them * The Guardian *A warm-hearted and witty take on being scared of the dark * Guernsey Press & Star *

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Book SynopsisEmily Brown and Stanley are back in this fun-filled Christmas picture book. By the author of the bestselling How to Train Your Dragon series.It''s Christmas Eve, and who''s that outside the window? It''s Father Christmas! In his shiny new turbo-charged sleigh, complete with sat-nav. But things aren''t going quite to plan...Can Emily Brown and Stanley save the day? They''ll just need some emergency reindeer, a star map and ... MAGIC!A charmingly funny adventure about cherishing traditions, this is classic Christmas storytelling at its best. *With a shiny gold cover!*Written by Cressida Cowell, the bestselling author of the How to Train Your Dragon series.Illustrated by Neal Layton, the artist behind Stanley''s Stick and Danny McGee Drinks the Sea, shortlisted for the Laugh Out Loud Picture Book Award.Trade ReviewAny parent whose child has resisted bedtime will relate to this funny tale. * The Sun *A supremely witty take, verbal and visual, on the improbably magic of present delivery. * The Sunday Times *Cressida Cowell...is a bona fide superstar of the children's books circuit. * Huffington Post *The gorgeous story has an important message about cherishing traditions, old and new, that children everywhere will understand. A winning combination of a bunny, gifts ad enchanting illustrations ensure the Christmas magic is complete. * The Sun *A supremely witty take, verbal and visual * The Sunday Times *Deliciously droll * The New Statesman *Fabulously fun artwork from Neal Layton and a laugh-out-loud text from the author of How to Train Your Dragon, Emily Brown is a character that everyone will love. This festive tale serves as a perfect introduction to the series, or a great addition for long-standing fans. * Booktrust *Cowell is best-known for her books for older readers, but Emily Brown proves she understands younger readers and their delight in repetition, catchphrases and manageable disaster. Layton's illustrations, meanwhile, literally pop off the page, with cut-out cartoon-style characters placed upon a watercolour and pencil-sketch background in an effective collage-inspired style. * Irish Times *A story that celebrates the best of Christmas * Storytime magazine *

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Book SynopsisWELCOME TO THE BOOK THAT STARTED IT ALL ... now a beautiful hardback with colour illustrations and all 48 collector cards. This gift book is a must-have for all How to Train Your Dragon fans. Hiccup Horrendous Haddock the Third is a smallish Viking with a longish name. The HAIRY HOOLIGAN TRIBE think he''s totally useless, but Hiccup is about to face his destiny ... and one tiny dragon. Can he prove his worth and become a HERO, or will he be banished for ever? How to Train Your Dragon book is now a major DreamWorks film. How to Train Your Dragon is a major DreamWorks franchise starring Gerard Butler, Cate Blanchett and Jonah Hill and the TV series, Riders of Berk, can be seen on CBeebies and Cartoon Network.Trade ReviewIf you haven't discovered Hiccup yet, you're missing out on one of the greatest inventions of modern children's literatureQuite simply, Cressida Cowell has an exceptional ability to give children what they like. Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III is a Viking who doesn't fit in: gawky and geeky, his adventures with his hunting-dragon Toothless are madcap and marvellous. Give it to a child, and see them become engrossed immediately. * The Independent *Pretty much everyone I know who has children adores these audiobooks and have listened to them on many a long (and otherwise fractious) car journey. Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III is a famous dragon trainer but he had to learn the hard way. Proper LOL funny as read by former Doctor Who David Tennant, you'll love listening to them too. -- Sarra Manning * Sarra Manning, Red Magazine Online *

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Book SynopsisFrom the bestselling author of How to Train Your Dragon and The Wizards of Once comes an out-of-this-world new adventure ...K2 O''Hero is a seemingly ordinary boy - after all, he and his twin sister Izzabird have been sworn to keep their family''s magical history a secret. Not even their infuriating stepsiblings, Theo and Mabel, know that magic exists. They believe K2 to be the most hopeless person they have ever known.But K2 has a secret gift: he draws maps of worlds that are beyond the wildest of imaginations. Worlds with six hundred moons, burning rivers and dark, twisty jungles alive with plants that hunt by the smell of fear. But what K2 doesn''t know, is that the maps he draws are real. When their baby sister Annipeck is kidnapped, the warring stepsiblings will have to use K2''s gift to find a crossing point into one of those worlds and embark on a daring rescue mission. With a terrible beast and a petrifying robot assTrade Review'A new Cressida Cowell series lifts the spirits as autumn damp descends...A witty, rip-roaring battle of good and evil, secrets and lies, monsters and magic ensues, illustrated with Cowell's signature black and white sketches, and underpinned by an ecological message. FAB-U-LOUS. -- Sally Morris * The Daily Mail *'a pacey, thrill-packed, highly imaginative new series that should pull in the most reluctant readers' * The Times Children’s Book of the Week *This rollicking story never lets up in energy, inventiveness and...good humour... Cressida Cowell is a genuine one-off.... Started 25 years ago, this story now forms the cornerstone for what looks likely to be yet another wildly popular series still to come. -- Books for Keeps * Books for Keeps *[T]his thrilling, past-paced adventure will whisk you away on a fascinating journey of imagination. * The Week Junior *Embraces the philosophical while also being huge fun. It has laughs, silliness, seriousness, a diverse blended family, a shy boy with a secret gift, an environmental message, magical maps of other worlds, monstrous beasts, a robot assassin, a pacey plot and Cowell's trademark riotous drawings. * The Sunday Times *Readers are dragged straight into a thrilling adventure story from the very first page with Cressida Cowell's ultra welcoming text and inviting illustrations. They are the kind of illustrations that are beautiful but also super unintimidating, the kind that make kids want to get out a pencil and draw their own pictures. This fits so well with the story, which is at its heart about the power of children's creativity and imagination -- BookTrust * BookTrust *'In my opinion, this is the best story the author has written.' Without a shadow of a doubt, this will be one of the best reads of the year. The story strikes a quirky balance of wild and outrageous storytelling that only great authors can dream up. It is full of brilliant characters, dialogue, and a daring rescue mission with terrible beasts and a robot assassin.... Dream BIG and travel well. -- Mr Ripley Enchanted Books * https://www.mrripleysenchantedbooks.com/2022/08/cressida-cowell-which-way-to-anywhere.html *Which Way to Anywhere is such a fun novel...a fun, thrilling many-worlds fantasy with magic and technology and a whole lot of heart. * www.bookwormhole.co.uk *Toppsta children's reviews:'We have loved all of Cressida Cowell's books and 'Which way to anywhere' is no exception! I love how the beautiful line drawn illustrations that covered the pages of her Wizards of Once series have continued in her new book as I really feel they give another dimension to the story. If you love adventure stories and magic then you'll love this book! I really hope it is made into a series.' Stjohnsyear6'Amazing, amazing, amazing! Two families are thrown together by marriage and, they don't like each other very much. However, a number of strange and wonderful things happen that mean that they have to work together and put their differences aside if they are to save the world. I loved this book as it was epic and fast paced and crazy... I especially loved the toothbrushes!' 9 year old The-face'I have always loved Cressida Cowell's books, and this wasn't an exception. It says at the back of the book that it may become a series! I really hope the next one will come out soon and that I can get my hands on it to read. This book is very enthralling adventure story and is just as good as How to Train your Dragon and The Wizards of Once. It is very bad for bedtimes, if you read it at bedtime like I did; you don't notice it getting later and later and you may be very tired the next morning! This book has also got brilliant grey drawings, they make me laugh because they have little features that are similar with the characters in the author's other books. I liked these similarities because I could even link all her book's characters as descendants of each other and all of them fitted together to almost make one story.' Dragonrider age 10 * https://toppsta.com/books/details/381721/which-way-to-anywhere#reviews *Magical worlds as only Cressida Cowell can. Just like The Wizards of Once series, this first book in the Which Way to Anywhere series is incredibly imaginative while this time linking into normal daily life and family matters with a blended family struggling to get along.There is also an environmental thread where humans have been the key in driving a beautiful species to near extinction. But they also may have the answer to bring it back to its full potential.The characters are all quirky in their own way, my favourite being K2 who has always been overshadowed by his loud, feisty twin sister Izzabird. All he wants is to prove himself, and he finally gets an opportunity to do something none of his siblings can - help save their baby sister.An out of this world, exciting, funny, gripping and magical adventure! * www.whatbooknext.com *I have missed 'The Wizards of Once' so much since the series ended, and 'Which Way to Anywhere' fills that black hole inside of me where 'Wizards' once occupied. The hallmark Cowellisms are present, with enough creativity to carve its own path in children's literature and make me excited to read more in this world. This is the perfect balance of silly and sentimental, with scenes in the third act worthy of tissues. Characters are alive and imperfect, providing a truly fantastic trajectory of growth and learning that readers will learn and grow from themselves. I can always rely on Cowell's characters to do the impossible, all the while reminding us that we can do the impossible ourselves if we only try.A truly exciting and fast-paced plot that not even my two kittens could distract me from, the illustrations also fed my imagination. Cressida Cowell's stories are my comfort reads, and 'Which Way to Anywhere' deserves its place in Cowell's iconic bibliography, as it soars just as high as 'How to Train Your Dragon' and enchants us just as much as 'The Wizards of Once'. * Gavin Hetherington, BookTuber *The depths of our Children's Laureate's imagination knows no bounds in this action-packed adventure about a boy who can create maps to transport himself into imaginary worlds... With a colourful cast of goodies and baddies, this is an epic start to a new series * The Bookseller *Wild magic, Cowell's trademark bonkers humour, rich environmentalism and the complexities of family love are woven deftly through the first book in a fabulous new series -- Imogen Russell Williams * The Guardian *'A new series by Cressida Cowell is always an event.... a highly imagined roller-coaster of a fantasy, written with the author's familiar panache...The story - illustrated with Cowell's familiar, scratchy sketches - has everything that her fans have come to expect...[A]s with all the best fantasy there is skilled balance between humdrum drama and high thrills...a joyously anarchic story which addresses the theme of childhood loss with real psychological acuity. And at the heart of this modern fantasy a very modern message: that those who appear to be worlds apart often have more in common than they assume.' * The Telegraph *Wild magic, Cowell's trademark bonkers humour, rich environmentalism and the complexities of family love are woven deftly through the first book in a fabulous new series. -- Imogen Russell Williams * The Guardian *

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Book SynopsisFrom the bestselling author of HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON comes an out-of-this-world new series packed with epic adventure, thrilling space travel and forbidden Magic.''Wild magic . . . fabulous'' Guardian''thrill-packed, highly imaginative'' The Times''secrets and lies, monsters and magic'' Daily MailThere is no Magic here on Earth. At least, that''s what you''ve been told . . . But in an ordinary-looking house in an ordinary-looking village, live a group of children who are about to uncover a secret.When 11-year-old K2 O''Hero discovers he has a Magical gift allowing him and his siblings to travel to alternative worlds (yes, there really are alternative worlds out there), some very weird things start happening. And when someone they love is in danger, the children must set off on a rescue mission to a planet on the other side of the Galaxy . . .A family with a Magical secret . . .Trade Review'A new series by Cressida Cowell is always an event.... a highly imagined roller-coaster of a fantasy, written with the author's familiar panache...[A]s with all the best fantasy there is skilled balance between humdrum drama and high thrills...a joyously anarchic story which addresses the theme of childhood loss with real psychological acuity. And at the heart of this modern fantasy a very modern message: that those who appear to be worlds apart often have more in common than they assume.' * The Telegraph *Wild magic, Cowell's trademark bonkers humour, rich environmentalism and the complexities of family love are woven deftly through the first book in a fabulous new series -- Imogen Russell Williams * The Guardian *'A new Cressida Cowell series lifts the spirits as autumn damp descends...A witty, rip-roaring battle of good and evil, secrets and lies, monsters and magic ensues, illustrated with Cowell's signature black and white sketches, and underpinned by an ecological message. FAB-U-LOUS. -- Sally Morris * The Daily Mail *'a pacey, thrill-packed, highly imaginative new series that should pull in the most reluctant readers' * The Times Children’s Book of the Week *This rollicking story never lets up in energy, inventiveness and...good humour... Cressida Cowell is a genuine one-off.... Started 25 years ago, this story now forms the cornerstone for what looks likely to be yet another wildly popular series still to come. -- Books for Keeps * Books for Keeps *[T]his thrilling, past-paced adventure will whisk you away on a fascinating journey of imagination. * The Week Junior *Embraces the philosophical while also being huge fun. It has laughs, silliness, seriousness, a diverse blended family, a shy boy with a secret gift, an environmental message, magical maps of other worlds, monstrous beasts, a robot assassin, a pacey plot and Cowell's trademark riotous drawings. * The Sunday Times *Readers are dragged straight into a thrilling adventure story from the very first page with Cressida Cowell's ultra welcoming text and inviting illustrations. They are the kind of illustrations that are beautiful but also super unintimidating, the kind that make kids want to get out a pencil and draw their own pictures. This fits so well with the story, which is at its heart about the power of children's creativity and imagination -- BookTrust * BookTrust *'In my opinion, this is the best story the author has written.' Without a shadow of a doubt, this will be one of the best reads of the year. The story strikes a quirky balance of wild and outrageous storytelling that only great authors can dream up. It is full of brilliant characters, dialogue, and a daring rescue mission with terrible beasts and a robot assassin.... Dream BIG and travel well. -- Mr Ripley Enchanted Books * https://www.mrripleysenchantedbooks.com/2022/08/cressida-cowell-which-way-to-anywhere.html *Which Way to Anywhere is such a fun novel...a fun, thrilling many-worlds fantasy with magic and technology and a whole lot of heart. * www.bookwormhole.co.uk *Toppsta children's reviews:'We have loved all of Cressida Cowell's books and 'Which way to anywhere' is no exception! I love how the beautiful line drawn illustrations that covered the pages of her Wizards of Once series have continued in her new book as I really feel they give another dimension to the story. If you love adventure stories and magic then you'll love this book! I really hope it is made into a series.' Stjohnsyear6'Amazing, amazing, amazing! Two families are thrown together by marriage and, they don't like each other very much. However, a number of strange and wonderful things happen that mean that they have to work together and put their differences aside if they are to save the world. I loved this book as it was epic and fast paced and crazy... I especially loved the toothbrushes!' 9 year old The-face'I have always loved Cressida Cowell's books, and this wasn't an exception. It says at the back of the book that it may become a series! I really hope the next one will come out soon and that I can get my hands on it to read. This book is very enthralling adventure story and is just as good as How to Train your Dragon and The Wizards of Once. It is very bad for bedtimes, if you read it at bedtime like I did; you don't notice it getting later and later and you may be very tired the next morning! This book has also got brilliant grey drawings, they make me laugh because they have little features that are similar with the characters in the author's other books. I liked these similarities because I could even link all her book's characters as descendants of each other and all of them fitted together to almost make one story.' Dragonrider age 10 * https://toppsta.com/books/details/381721/which-way-to-anywhere#reviews *Magical worlds as only Cressida Cowell can. Just like The Wizards of Once series, this first book in the Which Way to Anywhere series is incredibly imaginative while this time linking into normal daily life and family matters with a blended family struggling to get along.There is also an environmental thread where humans have been the key in driving a beautiful species to near extinction. But they also may have the answer to bring it back to its full potential.The characters are all quirky in their own way, my favourite being K2 who has always been overshadowed by his loud, feisty twin sister Izzabird. All he wants is to prove himself, and he finally gets an opportunity to do something none of his siblings can - help save their baby sister.An out of this world, exciting, funny, gripping and magical adventure! * www.whatbooknext.com *I have missed 'The Wizards of Once' so much since the series ended, and 'Which Way to Anywhere' fills that black hole inside of me where 'Wizards' once occupied. The hallmark Cowellisms are present, with enough creativity to carve its own path in children's literature and make me excited to read more in this world. This is the perfect balance of silly and sentimental, with scenes in the third act worthy of tissues. Characters are alive and imperfect, providing a truly fantastic trajectory of growth and learning that readers will learn and grow from themselves. I can always rely on Cowell's characters to do the impossible, all the while reminding us that we can do the impossible ourselves if we only try.A truly exciting and fast-paced plot that not even my two kittens could distract me from, the illustrations also fed my imagination. Cressida Cowell's stories are my comfort reads, and 'Which Way to Anywhere' deserves its place in Cowell's iconic bibliography, as it soars just as high as 'How to Train Your Dragon' and enchants us just as much as 'The Wizards of Once'. * Gavin Hetherington, BookTuber *The depths of our Children's Laureate's imagination knows no bounds in this action-packed adventure about a boy who can create maps to transport himself into imaginary worlds... With a colourful cast of goodies and baddies, this is an epic start to a new series * The Bookseller *

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Book SynopsisFrom the author of How to Train Your Dragon: Two young heroes fight to save their beloved homes in the next thrilling installment of the internationally bestselling Wizards of Once series. Xar and Wish are heroes with a huge task ahead -- confronting the Nuckalavee is not for the fainthearted. But with Magic and Iron together, they might just have a chance of saving their beloved homes from those who seek to destroy everything they hold dear. The third electrifying book in The Wizards of Once series fizzes with magic and introduces us to a host of glorious new characters: bears and piskies and magical pins and needles to name but a few. Beloved bestselling author Cressida Cowell once again brings her trademark wit and stunning combination of action, adventure, humor, and incredible artwork to this epic new adventure, sure to transport and enchant readers. Stunningly written, magnificent in scope, hilarious and thrilling, Knock Three Times im

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Book SynopsisThe hilarious exploits of Hiccup Horrendous Haddock the Third - the smallish Viking with a longish name. Can he become the Hero everyone expects him to be? Read the bestselling series that inspired the hit DreamWorks film How to Train Your Dragon.Trade ReviewAnother enchanting series of adventures about Hiccup * Daily Express *Another enchanting series of adventures about Hiccup * Daily Express *Told with Cowell's familiar narrative drive, humour and inventive, emphatic language * School Librarian *Told with Cowell's familiar narrative drive, humour and inventive, emphatic language * School Librarian *These are glorious stories in every way * The Times *These are glorious stories in every way * The Times *Lots of illustrations and a playfulness with language that will draw in even the most reluctant reader * The Daily Telegraph *Lots of illustrations and a playfulness with language that will draw in even the most reluctant reader * The Daily Telegraph *Not only funny, well written and thrilling, but also wise about what we owe those who love us * The Times *Not only funny, well written and thrilling, but also wise about what we owe those who love us * The Times *These are glorious stories in every way * The Times *These are glorious stories in every way * The Times *'If light amusement is required, Cressida Cowell's How to Break a Dragon's Heart delivers all it promises. There are lots of illustrations and a playfulness with language that will draw in even the most reluctant reader.' * Daily Telegraph *'Cressida Cowell's splendid series about the nerdy Viking Hiccup and his tiny dragon Toothless remain perennial favourites, and the latest, How to Break a Dragon's Heart is not only funny, well written and thrilling, but also wise about what we owe those who love us.' * Amanda Craig, The Times *'If you haven't discovered Hiccup yet, you're missing out on one of the greatest inventions of modern children's literature.' * Julia Eccleshare, Guardian children's editor *'... full of charm ... imaginative and bursting with inventive, off-the-wall humour, making them great stories to be read aloud.' * Waterstones Books Quarterly *'Ahead of the film of the same title due to be released next March, this is a special edition of the first book in the uproarious series about Viking Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III. Highly original, and full of useful tips for dragon-owners everywhere.' * Woman's Weekly *'With consistently funny stories told in inventive language - including the opportunity to extend your knowledge of Dragonese - these books always entertain.' * Waterstone's Books Quarterly *'another triumph from the creative pen of Cressida Cowell.' * Writeaway.org *'... inspired series ... its enchantment lies primarily in the comical, affectionate and often irritable relationship between Hiccup (the only nerd in the violent Viking Hooligan tribe) and his runty little dragon Toothless.' * Amanda Craig, The Times *PRAISE FOR HICCUP:'Fiercely exciting and laugh-aloud funny, it is as full of joy for children of 7+ who have given up reading as for those who love it.' * Amanda Craig, The Times *Irresistably funny, exciting and endearing * Amanda Craig, The Times *CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE WEEK: This book is great fun and has a Blackadderish sense of humour ... full of the sort of jokes that will make schoolboys snigger. * Nicolette Jones, The Sunday Times *How to Train Your Dragon is a delightful narrative caper... It offers a challenging read to 11-year-olds, and rewards reading aloud, especially for those who relish an element of theatre at story time. * Sunday Herald, Glasgow *... raucous and slapstick ... liberally illustrated with [Cressida Cowell's] riotous drawings, notes and maps. * The Financial Times *[Cressida Cowell] puts a contemporary spin on the old brains over brawn moral and brings the story to a climax with a thrilling dragon duel. Lots for lots of different readers to enjoy. * Books for Keeps *'a hilarious and gripping adventure, beautifully paced and studded with great dramatic scenes.' * Amanda Craig, Times *Bulging with good jokes, funny drawings and dramatic scenes, it is absolutely wonderful. * Independent on Sunday *'Cowell writes laugh-out-loud books with plenty of boy appeal Cowells anarchic drawings suit the slapstick humour.' * The Herald *'If light amusement is required, Cressida Cowell's How to Break a Dragon's Heart delivers all it promises. There are lots of illustrations and a playfulness with language that will draw in even the most reluctant reader.' * Daily Telegraph *'is not only funny, well written and thrilling, but also wise about what we owe those who love us.' * The Times *'Ahead of the film of the same title due to be released next March, this is a special edition of the first book in the uproarious series about Viking Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III. Highly original, and full of useful tips for dragon-owners everywhere.' * Woman's Weekly *

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Book SynopsisThe hilarious exploits of Hiccup Horrendous Haddock the Third - the smallish Viking with a longish name. Can he become the Hero everyone expects him to be? Read the bestselling series that inspired the hit DreamWorks film How to Train Your Dragon.Trade ReviewVikings, dragons, Romans and mayhem cavort across the pages in their usual irreverent and hilarious style * School Librarian *Vikings, dragons, Romans and mayhem cavort across the pages in their usual irreverent and hilarious style * School Librarian *These Hiccup stories are a sure-fire hit with children aged 6 and over. Full of quirky, child-like illustrations, they sparkle with humour and wit. The adventure is rip-roaringly fast and will engage from the very first page * My Books Mag *These Hiccup stories are a sure-fire hit with children aged 6 and over. Full of quirky, child-like illustrations, they sparkle with humour and wit. The adventure is rip-roaringly fast and will engage from the very first page * My Books Mag *Good jokes, funny drawings and dramatic scenes * Daily Echo *Good jokes, funny drawings and dramatic scenes * Daily Echo *This is book three in the How to Train Your Dragon series. They keep getting better and better. It's the best book ever! * guardian.co.uk *This is book three in the How to Train Your Dragon series. They keep getting better and better. It's the best book ever! * guardian.co.uk *'If you haven't discovered Hiccup yet, you're missing out on one of the greatest inventions of modern children's literature.' * Julia Eccleshare, Guardian children's editor *'Irresistably funny, exciting and endearing' * Amanda Craig, The Times *CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE WEEK: 'This book is great fun and has a Blackadderish sense of humour ... full of the sort of jokes that will make schoolboys snigger.' * Nicolette Jones, The Sunday Times *A super story, inventive, ingenious, perpetually surprising. One to cherish. * Armadillo, Spring 2003 *A wonderfully wittily written and illustrated story. * Waterstones Quarterly Magazine *How to Train Your Dragon is a delightful narrative caper... It offers a challenging read to 11-year-olds, and rewards reading aloud, especially for those who relish an element of theatre at story time. * Lindsey Fraser, Sunday Herald, Glasgow *... raucous and slapstick... liberally illustrated with [Cressida Cowell's] riotous drawings, notes and maps. * The Financial Times *[Cressida Cowell] puts a contemporary spin on the old brains over brawn moral and brings the story to a climax with a thrilling dragon duel. Lots for lots of different readers to enjoy. * Books for Keeps *Cowell brings Hiccup to life in this silly and delightful little novel. * St Paul Pioneer Press *Bulging with good jokes, funny drawings and dramatic scenes, it is absolutely wonderful. * Independent on Sunday *'hilarious' * www.writeaway.org *'funny and well writen' * Cheri Lloyd *'another fiendishly funny catalogue of disaster' * Pet O'Connell *We've loved Hiccup's dragon training adventures from the start. (tBk's Top 40 Children's Books) * tBk Magazine *It's the best book ever! They keep getting better and better. * The Guardian *

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Book SynopsisRead the HILARIOUS books that inspired the HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON films! Hiccup Horrendous Haddock the Third is a smallish Viking with a longish name. Hiccup''s father is chief of the Hairy Hooligan tribe which means Hiccup is the Hope and the Heir to the Hairy Hooligan throne - but most of the time Hiccup feels like a very ordinary boy, finding it hard to be a Hero. Over on Lava-Lout Island, the volcano is ready to blow. Now Hiccup faces a terrifying Quest to Stop the Volcano Exploding, alongside his best friend Fishlegs and Humungously Hotshot the ex-Hero.But not only is Lava-Lout Island full of EXTERMINATOR DRAGONS, Hiccup''s ARCH ENEMY is also lurking - and he''s seeking REVENGE! How to Train Your Dragon is a major award-winning DreamWorks film series. There is also a new live action movie due to be released in 2025. The TV series, Riders of Berk, can be seen on CBeebies and Cartoon Network.Trade Review'exuberantly illustrated ... laugh out-loud books, they will convert even the most relcutant reader to take their first dip.' * Julia Golding, TES *'a hilarious and gripping adventure, beautifully paced and studded with great dramatic scenes.' * Amanda Craig, Times *'Cowell writes laugh-out-loud books with plenty of boy appeal ... Cowell's anarchic drawings suit the slapstick humour.' * The Herald *'Fiercely exciting and laugh-aloud funny, it is as full of joy for children of 7+ who have given up reading as for those who love it.' * Amanda Craig, The Times *Irresistably funny, exciting and endearing * Amanda Craig, The Times *CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE WEEK: This book is great fun and has a Blackadderish sense of humour ... full of the sort of jokes that will make schoolboys snigger. * Nicolette Jones, The Sunday Times *How to Train Your Dragon is a delightful narrative caper... It offers a challenging read to 11-year-olds, and rewards reading aloud, especially for those who relish an element of theatre at story time. * Sunday Herald, Glasgow *... raucous and slapstick ... liberally illustrated with [Cressida Cowell's] riotous drawings, notes and maps. * The Financial Times *[Cressida Cowell] puts a contemporary spin on the old brains over brawn moral and brings the story to a climax with a thrilling dragon duel. Lots for lots of different readers to enjoy. * Books for Keeps *Bulging with good jokes, funny drawings and dramatic scenes, it is absolutely wonderful. * Independent on Sunday *'funny, outrageous and will lure in the most reluctant reader.' * The Spectator *'If you haven't discovered Hiccup yet, you're missing out on one of the greatest inventions of modern children's literature.' * Julia Eccleshare, Guardian children's editor *

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Book SynopsisThe hilarious exploits of Hiccup Horrendous Haddock the Third - the smallish Viking with a longish name. Can he become the Hero everyone expects him to be? Read the bestselling series that inspired the hit DreamWorks film How to Train Your Dragon.Trade ReviewA funny and outrageous story that will appeal to even the most reluctant reader * Family Interest *A funny and outrageous story that will appeal to even the most reluctant reader * Family Interest *Inspired * The Times *Inspired * The Times *A hilarious and gripping adventure, beautifully paced and studded with great dramatic scenes * The Times *'This fast paced adventure is packed with hilariously named characters and mythical monsters that will grab any young boys attention.' * Books for Keeps *A hilarious and gripping adventure, beautifully paced and studded with great dramatic scenes * The Times *'genius' * The Times *'... full of charm ... imaginative and bursting with inventive, off-the-wall humour, making them great stories to be read aloud.' * Waterstones Books Quarterly *'another triumph from the creative pen of Cressida Cowell.' * Writeaway.org *'... inspired series ... its enchantment lies primarily in the comical, affectionate and often irritable relationship between Hiccup (the only nerd in the violent Viking Hooligan tribe) and his runty little dragon Toothless.' * Amanda Craig, The Times *'Fiercely exciting and laugh-aloud funny, it is as full of joy for children of 7+ who have given up reading as for those who love it.' * Amanda Craig, The Times *Irresistably funny, exciting and endearing * Amanda Craig, The Times *CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE WEEK: This book is great fun and has a Blackadderish sense of humour ... full of the sort of jokes that will make schoolboys snigger. * Nicolette Jones, The Sunday Times *How to Train Your Dragon is a delightful narrative caper... It offers a challenging read to 11-year-olds, and rewards reading aloud, especially for those who relish an element of theatre at story time. * Sunday Herald, Glasgow *... raucous and slapstick ... liberally illustrated with [Cressida Cowell's] riotous drawings, notes and maps. * The Financial Times *[Cressida Cowell] puts a contemporary spin on the old brains over brawn moral and brings the story to a climax with a thrilling dragon duel. Lots for lots of different readers to enjoy. * Books for Keeps *'a hilarious and gripping adventure, beautifully paced and studded with great dramatic scenes.' * Amanda Craig, Times *Bulging with good jokes, funny drawings and dramatic scenes, it is absolutely wonderful. * Independent on Sunday *'Cowell writes laugh-out-loud books with plenty of boy appeal Cowells anarchic drawings suit the slapstick humour.' * The Herald *'If you haven't discovered Hiccup yet, you're missing out on one of the greatest inventions of modern children's literature.' * Julia Eccleshare, Guardian children's editor *Scary, crazy... and very funny. * First News *

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Book SynopsisRead the HILARIOUS books that inspired the HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON films!Hiccup Horrendous Haddock the Third is a smallish Viking with a longish name. Hiccup''s father is chief of the Hairy Hooligan tribe which means Hiccup is the Hope and the Heir to the Hairy Hooligan throne - but most of the time Hiccup feels like a very ordinary boy, finding it hard to be a Hero. Hiccup Haddock Horrendous the Third just wants a nice PEACEFUL birthday. But Hiccup''s dad wants to steal the prized How to Train Your Dragon book, and prove that his Hooligans are just as good as the Bog Burglars - except Hiccup''s dragon Toothless has EATEN it!So when Camicazi suggests stealing a copy from the grim Meathead Public Library, it seems like a good idea. BUT IT ISN''T! The library is guarded by the Horrible Hairy Scary the Librarian, four hundred Meathead Warrior Guards AND their Driller-Dragons . . . Will Hiccup survive - or is he DOOMED on his own biTrade ReviewA book to dip into, with jokes, riddles and everything you wanted to know about Hiccup's world * Publishing News *A book to dip into, with jokes, riddles and everything you wanted to know about Hiccup's world * Publishing News *Brilliantly funny * Bournemouth Daily Echo *Brilliantly funny * Bournemouth Daily Echo *'exuberantly illustrated ... laugh out-loud books, they will convert even the most relcutant reader to take their first dip.' * Julia Golding, TES *As laugh-out-loud books, they will convert even the most reluctant reader to take their first dip * Times Eductaional Supplement *As laugh-out-loud books, they will convert even the most reluctant reader to take their first dip * Times Eductaional Supplement *'a hilarious and gripping adventure, beautifully paced and studded with great dramatic scenes.' * Amanda Craig, Times *'Cowell writes laugh-out-loud books with plenty of boy appeal ... Cowell's anarchic drawings suit the slapstick humour.' * The Herald *'Fiercely exciting and laugh-aloud funny, it is as full of joy for children of 7+ who have given up reading as for those who love it.' * Amanda Craig, The Times *Irresistably funny, exciting and endearing * Amanda Craig, The Times *CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE WEEK: This book is great fun and has a Blackadderish sense of humour ... full of the sort of jokes that will make schoolboys snigger. * Nicolette Jones, The Sunday Times *How to Train Your Dragon is a delightful narrative caper... It offers a challenging read to 11-year-olds, and rewards reading aloud, especially for those who relish an element of theatre at story time. * Sunday Herald, Glasgow *... raucous and slapstick ... liberally illustrated with [Cressida Cowell's] riotous drawings, notes and maps. * The Financial Times *[Cressida Cowell] puts a contemporary spin on the old brains over brawn moral and brings the story to a climax with a thrilling dragon duel. Lots for lots of different readers to enjoy. * Books for Keeps *Bulging with good jokes, funny drawings and dramatic scenes, it is absolutely wonderful. * Independent on Sunday *'funny, outrageous and will lure in the most reluctant reader.' * The Spectator *'If you haven't discovered Hiccup yet, you're missing out on one of the greatest inventions of modern children's literature.' * Julia Eccleshare, Guardian children's editor *

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Book SynopsisRead the HILARIOUS books that inspired the HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON films! Hiccup Horrendous Haddock the Third is a smallish Viking with a longish name. Hiccup''s father is chief of the Hairy Hooligan tribe which means Hiccup is the Hope and the Heir to the Hairy Hooligan throne - but most of the time Hiccup feels like a very ordinary boy, finding it hard to be a Hero. When we last left Hiccup things were getting very dark indeed. The Dragon Rebellion has begun. Snotlout is the new Chief of the Hooligan Tribe. Stoick has been banished and given the Slavemark. And Alvin the Treacherous has EIGHT of the King''s Lost Things, and has been proclaimed the new King of the Wilderwest ... But what can Hiccup do, now all alone and in exile, hunted by both humans and dragons? Can he find the Dragon Jewel, mankind''s last and only hope and become the Hero once again?How to Train Your Dragon is now a major DreamWorks franchise starring Gerard Butler, Cate BlTrade ReviewA delight for 8+ * The Times *A delight for 8+ * The Times *Cowell's loopy, scattershot imagination is as compelling as ever * Financial Times *Cowell's loopy, scattershot imagination is as compelling as ever * Financial Times *Cowell is an effortlessly funny writer and is brimming with creativity...Highly recommended * Birmingham Post *Cowell is an effortlessly funny writer and is brimming with creativity...Highly recommended * Birmingham Post *Action and excitement aplenty * The Daily Telegraph *Action and excitement aplenty * The Daily Telegraph *PRAISE FOR THE HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON BOOKS:'Fiercely exciting and laugh-aloud funny, it is as full of joy for children of 7+ who have given up reading as for those who love it.' * Amanda Craig, The Times *The most inventive, entertaining and demanding contemporary children's epic * telegraph.co.uk *The most inventive, entertaining and demanding contemporary children's epic * telegraph.co.uk *CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE WEEK: This book is great fun and has a Blackadderish sense of humour ... full of the sort of jokes that will make schoolboys snigger. * Nicolette Jones, The Sunday Times *... raucous and slapstick ... liberally illustrated with [Cressida Cowell's] riotous drawings, notes and maps. * The Financial Times *[Cressida Cowell] puts a contemporary spin on the old brains over brawn moral and brings the story to a climax with a thrilling dragon duel. Lots for lots of different readers to enjoy. * Books for Keeps *'a hilarious and gripping adventure, beautifully paced and studded with great dramatic scenes.' * Amanda Craig, Times *Bulging with good jokes, funny drawings and dramatic scenes, it is absolutely wonderful. * Independent on Sunday *'If light amusement is required, Cressida Cowell's How to Break a Dragon's Heart delivers all it promises. There are lots of illustrations and a playfulness with language that will draw in even the most reluctant reader.' * Daily Telegraph *'is not only funny, well written and thrilling, but also wise about what we owe those who love us.' * The Times *'Ahead of the film of the same title due to be released next March, this is a special edition of the first book in the uproarious series about Viking Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III. Highly original, and full of useful tips for dragon-owners everywhere.' * Woman's Weekly *Top stuff. * Daily Telegraph *Especially good... raises the series to classic status. * Times *Ceaselessly inventive... young readers are lucky to have her. ***** * Books For Keeps *Always thrilling, funny and brilliantly illustrated. * Daily Express *A modern classic. Cowell is an effortlessly funny writer and is brimming with creativity. Highly recommended. * Birmingham Post *A delight for 8+. * The Times *Cowell's loopy, scattershot imagination is as compelling as ever. * Financial Times *Action and excitement aplenty. * Daily Telegraph *The most inventive, entertaining and demanding contemporary children's epic. * Daily Telegraph (Peter Florence) *Gripping adventure stories complete with quests and battles, a vividly imagined alternative world. * Daily Telegraph *Gloriously funny. * The Daily Telegraph *

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Book SynopsisRead the HILARIOUS books that inspired the HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON films! Hiccup Horrendous Haddock the Third is a smallish Viking with a longish name. Hiccup''s father is chief of the Hairy Hooligan tribe which means Hiccup is the Hope and the Heir to the Hairy Hooligan throne - but most of the time Hiccup feels like a very ordinary boy, finding it hard to be a Hero. High up in the treacherous mists of the Murderous Mountains, Hiccup and the Company of the Dragonmark are in hiding. The witch''s Spydragons are guarding the shores of Tomorrow - but Hiccup is determined to become King of the Wilderwest. Can Hiccup dodge the dragons and steal the King''s Things back from Alvin before the Doomsday of Yule? And is there a traitor in Hiccup''s camp who in the end will betray them all?How to Train Your Dragon is now a major DreamWorks franchise starring Gerard Butler, Cate Blanchett and Jonah Hill and the TV series, Riders of Berk, can be seen on CBeeTrade ReviewA smart, funny read that will keep children on the edge of their seats * Daily Express *A smart, funny read that will keep children on the edge of their seats * Daily Express *There is heartfelt emotion behind the jokes and wild pencil drawings * The Sunday Times *There is heartfelt emotion behind the jokes and wild pencil drawings * The Sunday Times *Exudes relentless energy...embelished with plenty of the clashing fonts, ink blots and scribbly pencil drawings that make this series of books so unique...takes the saga to a new level and is an enormously enjoyable read * The Bookbag *Exudes relentless energy...embelished with plenty of the clashing fonts, ink blots and scribbly pencil drawings that make this series of books so unique...takes the saga to a new level and is an enormously enjoyable read * The Bookbag *Exciting adventures, great characters and plenty of jokes and funny drawings make Hiccup's adventoures some of our favourite books * tBK Mag *Exciting adventures, great characters and plenty of jokes and funny drawings make Hiccup's adventoures some of our favourite books * tBK Mag *As gripping and as rousing as ever...as with the best children's literature, these books are about much bigger things: endurance, loyalty, friendship and love. And Cowell's illustrations and visual storytelling enhance the action no end * The Daily Telegraph *PRAISE FOR THE HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON BOOKS:'Fiercely exciting and laugh-aloud funny, it is as full of joy for children of 7+ who have given up reading as for those who love it.' * Amanda Craig, The Times *As gripping and as rousing as ever...as with the best children's literature, these books are about much bigger things: endurance, loyalty, friendship and love. And Cowell's illustrations and visual storytelling enhance the action no end * The Daily Telegraph *CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE WEEK: This book is great fun and has a Blackadderish sense of humour ... full of the sort of jokes that will make schoolboys snigger. * Nicolette Jones, The Sunday Times *... raucous and slapstick ... liberally illustrated with [Cressida Cowell's] riotous drawings, notes and maps. * The Financial Times *[Cressida Cowell] puts a contemporary spin on the old brains over brawn moral and brings the story to a climax with a thrilling dragon duel. Lots for lots of different readers to enjoy. * Books for Keeps *'a hilarious and gripping adventure, beautifully paced and studded with great dramatic scenes.' * Amanda Craig, Times *Bulging with good jokes, funny drawings and dramatic scenes, it is absolutely wonderful. * Independent on Sunday *'If light amusement is required, Cressida Cowell's How to Break a Dragon's Heart delivers all it promises. There are lots of illustrations and a playfulness with language that will draw in even the most reluctant reader.' * Daily Telegraph *'is not only funny, well written and thrilling, but also wise about what we owe those who love us.' * The Times *'Ahead of the film of the same title due to be released next March, this is a special edition of the first book in the uproarious series about Viking Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III. Highly original, and full of useful tips for dragon-owners everywhere.' * Woman's Weekly *Top stuff. * Daily Telegraph *Especially good... raises the series to classic status. * Times *Ceaselessly inventive... young readers are lucky to have her. ***** * Books For Keeps *Always thrilling, funny and brilliantly illustrated. * Daily Express *By turns hilarious and wise, it's never predictable, brilliantly illustrated and always delightful. * The Times *As gripping and as rousing as ever... as with the best children's literature, these books are about much bigger things: endurance, loyalty, friendship and love. And Cowell's illustrations and visual storytelling enhance the action no end. * The Daily Telegraph *Exciting adventures, great characters and plenty of jokes and funny drawings make Hiccups adventures some of our favourite books. * tBk Mag *Embellished with plenty of the clashing fonts, ink blots and scribbly pencil drawings that make this series of books so unique. How To Betray a Dragon's Hero takes the saga to a completely new level and is an enormously enjoyable read. * Bookbag *Cressida Cowell's 11th and penultimate volume in the phenomenal How to Train Your Dragon series. * Sunday Times *A smart, funny read that will keep children on the edges of their seats. * Daily Express *If you haven't discovered How To Train Your Dragon you are missing out on one of the greatest inventions of modern children's literature. * The Guardian *The penultimate book in the popular series. * The Schools Advertiser *

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Book SynopsisA stunning reissue of this classic picture book. When the Queen steals Emily Brown''s favourite toy and erstwhile companion, a toy rabbit called Stanley, Emily sets out to get him back and teach that naughty queen a valuable lesson! Winner of the 2006 Nestle Gold Award, chosen for the Richard & Judy Christmas book party, a Bookaboo Book Club book as seen on CITV and read by Amanda Holden.''Charming, funny and gets my vote as the best picture book of the year.'' - Financial TimesWritten by Cressida Cowell, the bestselling author of the How to Train Your Dragon series. http://www.cressidacowell.co.uk/Illustrated by award winning Neal Layton, creator of Stanley''s Stick.http://www.neallayton.co.uk/Trade ReviewEmily is a great character * motherandbaby.co.uk *A great friendship story * londonmumsmagazine.com *Leaves you with an instant feeling of justice and a job well done. This funny story with a strong moral message taps into a child's special bond with a toy * The Lady *A must-read * School Librarian *Captures the unbreakable bond between children and their mankiest toys * The Sunday Telegraph *A very funny book about imagination and play * Waitrose Weekend *Big. Witty. Wild. * Families Magazine *Charming, funny and gets my vote for the best picture book of the year -- Jill Slotover * Financial Times *Neal Layton's illustrations capture both the vigour and the dreaminess of childhood * The Guardian *A touching story about how your favourite toy isn't necessarily the newest or most expensive and will engage any small child * The Mail on Sunday *A brilliant story with fabulous illustrations * Angels & Urchins *Cowell's text is modern, jazzy and fun * Children's Books Ireland *Both author and illustrator are highly acclaimed in their own right and together in this absolutelu exquisite picture they have surpassed even their own high expectations. Wonderfully imaginative with a subliminal message too that toddlers everywhere will thoroughly enjoy * Love Reading 4 Kids *An engaging celebration of well-loved toys and imaginative play * The Scotsman *Cowell has written the picture book of the year * The Times *A quirky and fantastical funny book * Carousel *This first time pairing of two acclaimed talents has created a visual feast * The Guardian *A marvellous story about love and the right way to treat a friend, perfectly finished with Neal Layton's brilliantly wacky illustrations * Lincolnshire Echo *Charming, funny and gets my vote as the best picture book of the year * FTMagazine *. . . a touching story . . . * The Mail on Sunday *A brilliant crescendo story with fabulous illustrations. * Angels and Urchins *Cowell's text is modern, jazzy and fun. She creates a very real character in Emily Brown and her pet rabbit Stanley. Layton's illustration style perfectly accompanies the text...This book is energentic and fun. Highly recommended! * Children's Books Ireland *Cowell has written the picture book of the year. * The Times *Inspired partnership. * The Sunday Telegraph *Illustrated with gloriously messy collages by Neal Layton, the funkiest illustrator on the block. * Daily Mail *A picture book that will be sought and loved . * The Independent *Charming, funny and gets my vote for the best picture book of the year. * Financial Times *A touching story that will engage any small child. * The Mail on Sunday *Amazing adventures. * Guardian *A marvellous story about love and the right way to treat a friend, perfectly finished with Neal Layton's brilliantly wacky illustrations. * Lincolnshire Echo *

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Book SynopsisEmily Brown and her side-kick rabbit, Stanley, are back and this time they''re on a mission to cheer up one very unhappy teddy bear. But, no matter what they try, the teddy bear is STILL miserable. Emily Brown has had ENOUGH!With an important message that children will understand, this is storytelling at its best, from an exciting creative team in children''s books.''Will both delight fans, and give them something to reflect on. Layton''s illustrations are a joy, matching the text perfectly.'' - BooksellerWritten by Cressida Cowell, the bestselling author of the How to Train Your Dragon series. http://www.cressidacowell.co.uk/Illustrated by award winning Neal Layton, creator of Stanley''s Stick. http://www.neallayton.co.uk/Trade ReviewA fun story to share * The Bookbag *Will both delight fans and give them something to reflect on * Bookseller *Just the right mix of whimsy and humour and firmly on the right side of cuteness...A delight * Peters Gazette *A great story about cheering someone up from one of our best-loved author/illustrator combinations * Angels & Urchins *Lovely * The School Librarian *Show the joys of children using their imaginations. The illustrations work perfectly with the story...a fun story to share * The Bookbag *The Emliy Brown books are undoubtedly true modern classics. An absolute joy to read * huffingtonpost.co.uk *This reprint from the delightful 'Emily Brown' picture book series is bright and breezy, warming and witty ... This gifted author/illustrator partnership has produced a fantastic picture book for children to enjoy * Carousel *A great story... from one of our best-loved author/illustrator combinations. * Angels & Urchins *Shows the joys of children using their imaginations... the illustrations work perfectly with the story. * Bookbag *A visually sumptuous read, blending illustrations with graphics and photography for a textured feel. * Junior *Lovely. * School Librarian *

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Book SynopsisEmily Brown, Stanley the bunny and Matilda the elephant are busy going on adventures, but every time they get to a particularly exciting part . . . Ring! Ring! goes the Emergency Telephone and it''s Matilda''s mummy on the end worrying that Matilda isn''t wearing her wellies, or eating properly or almost anything. How can Emily Brown persuade her that sometimes adventures are good? This brilliant title from this award-winning team is a witty and poignant book about the importance of spending quality time with your children and allowing them to explore the world around them.''A sensitive and witty handling of fears that has a valuable lesson for adults too. Great fun.'' - Daily MailWritten by Cressida Cowell, the bestselling author of the How to Train Your Dragon series. http://www.cressidacowell.co.uk/Illustrated by award winning Neal Layton, creator of Stanley''s Stick. http://www.neallayton.co.uk/Trade ReviewAn absolute cracker of a picture bokk to stretch your imagination * Newbury Weekly News *No.8 in The Hit List - Over protective parenting causes problems in the latest in the delightful Emily Brown series * The Independent on Sunday *[A] delicious fantastical adventure * The Guardian *This zany story is full of fun as well as being an imaginative exploration of insecure emotional attachment...Quite superb * Books For Keeps *Aimed squarely at mums and dads who will be sharing this, the message is delivered in a light-hearted, wryly knowing way, with plenty of colourful, visual adventures for the young reader to enjoy * Carousel *A sensitive and witty handling of fears that has a valuable lesson for adults too. Great fun * Daily Mail *This zany story is full of fun as well as being an imaginative exploration of insecure emotional attachment. Layton's illustrations are perfect foils for the story. Quite superb. ***** * Books For Keeps *Neal Layton's artwork is an absolute joy. * INIS *Already firm favourites.. each story has been brilliant. * School Librarian *The latest in the delightful Emily Brown series. * Independent on Sunday *Great fun. * Daily Mail *Superb. ***** * Books For Keeps *Plenty of colourful visual adventures for the younger reader to enjoy. * Carousel *

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Book SynopsisRead the HILARIOUS books that inspired the HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON films! Hiccup Horrendous Haddock the Third is a smallish Viking with a longish name. Hiccup''s father is chief of the Hairy Hooligan tribe which means Hiccup is the Hope and the Heir to the Hairy Hooligan throne - but most of the time Hiccup feels like a very ordinary boy, finding it hard to be a Hero. It is the Doomsday of Yule. At the end of this day, either the humans or the dragons will face extinction. Alvin the Treacherous is about to be crowned the King of the Wilderwest on the island of Tomorrow. His reign of terror will begin with the destruction of dragons everywhere.The fate of the dragon world lies in the hands of one young boy: Hiccup Horrendous Haddock the Third. If Hiccup can''t beat Alvin the Treacherous then the entire human AND dragon race will become extinct. The time has come to prove himself, once and for all. Will Hiccup - with the help of his friends FishlTrade ReviewThere is a deep humanity to the novel's resolution, which understands that endings are not really endings at all, and that life contains a mixture of the good, the evil and the just plain ordinary. The best children's books make the world magical. As every child looks for Narnia in the back of a wardrobe, so I hope that, for years to come, children will see dragons all around them. How to fight a dragon's fury is a resounding finale, full of fire and smoke, love, honour and old fashioned thrills. It's a triumph. -- Philip Womack * The Daily Telegraph *Very funny * Evening Echo (Cork) *Praise for the series: Cressida Cowell's How to Train Your Dragon books fill every spread with scales and fangs and typographical jeux d'esprit * The Independent *I am really sad this series has ended because it's my absolute favourite series. I have enjoyed all of Hiccup's adventures and really wish dragons were real; I would love to go into my garden and discover a Riproarer or maybe a triple-headed Deadly Shadow * The Guardian *Brilliantly written * Woman’s Way *An epic finale -- Noah Sanders, aged 10 * Northern Scot Midweek Extra *There are some really touching moments alongside rip roaring adventure...I am going to really miss Hiccup's dragon Toothless * South Wales Evening Post *Cowell's How to Train Your Dragon books stand out not only for their humour, excitement, and startlingly vivid descriptive language, but also, more surprisingly, for their profound meditations on complex political, historical, emotional and moral themes. They incite children to reason and to question, and inspire their imagination and inquisitiveness. * Philosophy Now Magazine *Cowell still writes these with pep and inventiveness * The Daily Telegraph *If your child's already a fan they'll devour this in a few hours; if not, cancel all Christmas plans and prepare for some mammoth reading sessions * The School Run *My children's book of the year... [How to Train Your Dragon] has kept a consistent flow of brilliant characters, jokes, stylish writing, illustrations and ideas - and the finale is tremendous. Her geeky, once-despised Viking hero, Hiccup, saves humanity (and dragons) from certain doom in an unpredictable, satisfying way. This series is one of the greatest ever written for those between eight and 12. Buy them all and your holidays will be blessed with perfect peace. -- Amanda Craig * The New Statesman *Wihtout question, Cowell has crafted a modern classic. The world she has created, throwing readers back into a time when dragons and humans inhabited the same place, is every bit as consuming and deep as Harry's in Hogwarts ... And so the fight -- part Doctor Who, part biblical epic -- begins.gripping, a worthy end to something very special * The Big Issue *Cressida Cowell won the Philosophy Now prize this year ... it turns out that the adventures of Hiccup, the Heroes and the dragons raise big questions about courage, parent-child relationships, friendship, bullying, what is means to be a boy and particularly, what is truly valuable. This opens with a sock-it-to-'em chapter and builds from there * The Sunday Times *This book is awesome; a truly fitting finale for such an amazing series * The guardian.com *Flaming good * Daily Express *The future is in the hands of a popular hero, Hiccup, who'll make you laugh along the way. Superb illustrations, too. * Chase *The story is full of excitement, danger, magic and triumph. This tremendous final adventure for Hiccup and his dragons is unmissable * The Week Junior *[Toothless] is the world's most adorable dragon, and there are probably very few who would argue that * Express.co.uk *With a story that soars and dips, twists and turns like a dragon's flight path, this is the brilliant final episode in a series that belongs on the bookshelves of every child who loves a turbulent thriller of a take * Daily Record *If your children haven't discovered these brilliant stories yet, they're missing a trick. * Daily Express *Now out in paperback is How to Fight a Dragon's Fury, the 12th and last in the series of Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III's hilariously haphazard instruction manuals on how to be a hero the hard way * Evening Echo (Cork) *This is my favourite book ever! It's about different types of dragons, how they behave and how to find them! ... I adore this book so much that I couldn't stop reading it! * The guardian.com *There is a deep humanity to the novel's resolution, which understands that endings are not really endings at all, and that life contains a mixture of the good, the evil and the just plain ordinary. The best children's books make the world magical. As every child looks for Narnia in the back of a wardrobe, so I hope that, for years to come, children will see dragons all around them. How to fight a dragon's fury is a resounding finale, full of fire and smoke, love, honour and old fashioned thrills. It's a triumph. -- Philip Womack * The Daily Telegraph *Cowell addresses some big issues in this magical and mysterious tale that is bound to become a modern classic * The Independent *Very funny * Evening Echo (Cork) *Praise for the series: Cressida Cowell's How to Train Your Dragon books fill every spread with scales and fangs and typographical jeux d'esprit * The Independent *I am really sad this series has ended because it's my absolute favourite series. I have enjoyed all of Hiccup's adventures and really wish dragons were real; I would love to go into my garden and discover a Riproarer or maybe a triple-headed Deadly Shadow * The Guardian *Brilliantly written * Woman’s Way *An epic finale -- Noah Sanders, aged 10 * Northern Scot Midweek Extra *There are some really touching moments alongside rip roaring adventure...I am going to really miss Hiccup's dragon Toothless * South Wales Evening Post *Cowell's How to Train Your Dragon books stand out not only for their humour, excitement, and startlingly vivid descriptive language, but also, more surprisingly, for their profound meditations on complex political, historical, emotional and moral themes. They incite children to reason and to question, and inspire their imagination and inquisitiveness. * Philosophy Now Magazine *Cowell still writes these with pep and inventiveness * The Daily Telegraph *If your child's already a fan they'll devour this in a few hours; if not, cancel all Christmas plans and prepare for some mammoth reading sessions * The School Run *My children's book of the year... [How to Train Your Dragon] has kept a consistent flow of brilliant characters, jokes, stylish writing, illustrations and ideas - and the finale is tremendous. Her geeky, once-despised Viking hero, Hiccup, saves humanity (and dragons) from certain doom in an unpredictable, satisfying way. This series is one of the greatest ever written for those between eight and 12. Buy them all and your holidays will be blessed with perfect peace. -- Amanda Craig * The New Statesman *Wihtout question, Cowell has crafted a modern classic. The world she has created, throwing readers back into a time when dragons and humans inhabited the same place, is every bit as consuming and deep as Harry's in Hogwarts ... And so the fight -- part Doctor Who, part biblical epic -- begins.gripping, a worthy end to something very special * The Big Issue *Cressida Cowell won the Philosophy Now prize this year ... it turns out that the adventures of Hiccup, the Heroes and the dragons raise big questions about courage, parent-child relationships, friendship, bullying, what is means to be a boy and particularly, what is truly valuable. This opens with a sock-it-to-'em chapter and builds from there * The Sunday Times *This book is awesome; a truly fitting finale for such an amazing series * The guardian.com *Flaming good * Daily Express *The future is in the hands of a popular hero, Hiccup, who'll make you laugh along the way. Superb illustrations, too. * Chase *The story is full of excitement, danger, magic and triumph. This tremendous final adventure for Hiccup and his dragons is unmissable * The Week Junior *[Toothless] is the world's most adorable dragon, and there are probably very few who would argue that * Express.co.uk *With a story that soars and dips, twists and turns like a dragon's flight path, this is the brilliant final episode in a series that belongs on the bookshelves of every child who loves a turbulent thriller of a take * Daily Record *If your children haven't discovered these brilliant stories yet, they're missing a trick. * Daily Express *Now out in paperback is How to Fight a Dragon's Fury, the 12th and last in the series of Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III's hilariously haphazard instruction manuals on how to be a hero the hard way * Evening Echo (Cork) *This is my favourite book ever! It's about different types of dragons, how they behave and how to find them! ... I adore this book so much that I couldn't stop reading it! * The guardian.com *

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Book SynopsisFrom the bestselling author of How to Train Your Dragon comes an exciting high-adventure series - set in an ancient, magical time, full of Wizards, Warriors, Giants and Sprites. Winner of the Blue Peter Book AwardThis is the story of a young boy Wizard and a young girl Warrior who have been taught since birth to hate each other like poison; and the thrilling tale of what happens when their two worlds collide.Perfect for boys and girls who love fantasy adventure...Once there was Magic, and the Magic lived in the dark forests. Until the Warriors came...Xar is a Wizard boy who has no Magic, and will do anything to get it. Wish is a Warrior girl, but she owns a banned Magical Object, and she will do anything to conceal it. In this whirlwind adventure, Xar and Wish must forget their differences if they''re going to make it to the dungeons at Warrior Fort. Where something that has been sTrade ReviewWorld-conquering * The Guardian *The first volume of a new series by author and illustrator of the How to Train Your Dragon series is an event....Funny, thoughtful and surprisingly wise and lively, this is another coup from Cowell * The Sunday Times *Cowell's latest work offers a fully realized fantasy world abounding with witches, sprites, killer plants, and talking ravens. Her scrappy teenage protagonists are wonderfully flawed and almost scarily realistic in their bravery, selfishness, and desire to please their parents yet not surrender their individuality. The omniscient narrator's voice is pitch-perfect, sounding appropriately young without ever talking down to the target audience. Readers will fall in love with the imaginative worldbuilding and humorous dialogue and asides....A delightful magical romp. * Kirkus Reviews *The detail of Cowell's world is a delight...This one will run and run. * The Observer *I am pleased to report that The Wizards of Once...is terrific. It introduces us to a new fantasy world, though its roots again lie deep in a familiar mulch of history and legend. Not the Norse myths this time, but a fantasia of ancient Britain, a land of dark, mysterious forests and powerful magic. What follows is a rollercoaster of suspense and surprise...The book has all the familiar Cowell trademarks. The story never flags, even at moments of calm and reflection, and the writing has humour, grit and depth. She provides her own illustrations, and their scratchy style and scribbled annotations strike the right note. It all adds up to a beautifully designed hardback volume. * The Guardian *... sustain a sense of wonder and mayhem from start to finish. Cowell skillfully mixes adventure with silliness in a satisfying story for younger fantasy fans. * Publishers Weekly *... it is by turns grim, poignant, philosophical and terrifying, woven through with Cowell's slapstick humour. * The Times Literary Supplement *An exciting and promising start... A fantastical adventure ensues, filled with mythical beasts, cliff-hangers and an epic struggle between good and evil * The Scotsman *bristles with rambunctious energy and humour, and feels as if it has been slapped down on the page with glee and mischief....its characters, Xar the wizard who has no magic, and Wish the warrior princess, who happens to have a magic spoon, are irresistible. * Herald Scotland *Wizards, warriors, sprites and snow cats in a brilliant new fantasy adventure. * The Bookseller *The Wizards of Once is... terrific... a rollercoaster of suspense. * The Guardian *I loved The Wizards of Once. Of course! The new world Cowell has created is just as vivid...There's plenty of magic in Cowell's wild woods and it rises from the pages fresh and clear and with fizzling energy... And it's funny, as you'd expect. Cheerfully funny with daft jokes and slapstick and sharp dialogue... The underlying theme is one of tolerance of difference. She writes with empathy and encourages it in her readers that way. So much better to let kids come to their own conclusions once you've gently pointed them in the right direction. I think this is one reason why Cowell is so popular - there is a trust between author and reader that both feel and respect. * The Book Bag *It's so brilliantly entertaining, exciting and scary, you'll be desperate to get your hands on the sequel. * The Week Junior *Cressida Cowell is a gifted author with a real talent for taking her readers right inside her fantasy worlds. Now we have the start of a great new series, with more to look forward to...The illustrations by the author are an outstanding feature of the book - they really convey the atmosphere and propel the reader into this fantastical world. Totally absorbing. * Parents in Touch *I really enjoyed this book because there were moments of suspense where you could guess what would happen and 9 times out of 10 be shocked by what happened.It was really fun and a good read, I love how it all intertwines and locks. It is a book you get drawn into and can't put down and I can't wait for the next book in the series to come out because it leaves a real cliff hanger of an ending! An incredible read. 5 out of 5 * Primary Times *Fans of How To Train Your Dragon who have been waiting for Cressida Cowell's new series will not be disappointed. Wizards, warriors, magic and two fab new mini heroes. * Weekly Scoop *Without ever losing the qualities that have made her books so deservedly popular, very gently (and cleverly) Cressida Cowell leads her young readers into something deeper, something richer, something even more magical. In doing so, her contribution to children's literature follows exactly the same path. She is a true hero of current children's fiction. Her books are a gift and children, parents, carers, and teachers should all be deeply grateful for it. * Magic Fiction Since Potter *A treat for old fans and newcomers alike. * S Magazine *Packed with Cowell's own quirkly illustrations, and as imaginative, funny and warm-hearted as the Dragon books, The Wizards of Once is a pacy, exciting read that's sure to herald another hit series. * Gainsborough Echo *Funny, thoughtful, lively and suprisingly wise, it is another coup for Cowell. * The Sunday Times Ireland *The book bristles with rambunctious energy and humour, and feels as if it has been slapped down on the page with glee and mischief. And its characters are irresistible. * The Glasgow Herald *This is a spellbinding adventure. It's so brilliantly entertaining, exciting and scary, you'll be desperate to get your hands on the sequel. * The Week Junior *A wildly entertaining and funny adventure. It is a visual treat to snuggle up with or read together with an adult. * South Wales Evening Post (Swansea) *If your kids adored How to Train Your Dragon, they'll be thrilled by the new The Wizards of Once. * Family Traveller *The illustrations of Xar, Wish, the magical creatures, notices and maps will be familiar to fans of How to Train Your Dragon but they are darker and have more of a feel of Tinder or A Monster Calls. An enjoyable read for anyone who loves the idea that 'Once there was Magic'. * The School Librarian *Full of quirky illustrations, it is a pacy read. * Cornish Times *Packed with Cowell's own quirky illustrations and as imaginative, funny and warm-hearted as the Dragon books. * The Wrexham Leader *A new fantasy world drawing on the background of Ancient Britain. The book is engagingly written with humorous illustrations and sketches adding to the flavour and vividness of the writing. A must of any KS2 reader who likes fast-paced adventure. * The English Association *The story moves at a cracking pace. * Teaching English *I would recommend this book to people who like long adventures stories. I would say people aged 9 to 12 would like the story. I would say that this one of the best books I have read. 10 out of 10. * Cork Evening Echo *Cowell's latest work offers a fully realized fantasy world abounding with witches, sprites, killer plants, and talking ravens. Her scrappy teenage protagonists are wonderfully flawed and almost scarily realistic in their bravery, selfishness, and desire to please their parents yet not surrender their individuality. The omniscient narrator's voice is pitch-perfect, sounding appropriately young without ever talking down to the target audience. Readers will fall in love with the imaginative worldbuilding and humorous dialogue and asides....A delightful magical romp. * Kirkus Reviews *This book will delight and engage readers of fantasy both young and old. * School Library Connection *

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