Books by David Almond

Book SynopsisFrom the bestselling, award-winning David Almond comes a book of hope and joy: under a boundless starry sky, the unforgettable Sylvia Carr finds out what it means to be brave. For readers of Michael Morpurgo and Katherine Rundell, from the author of the beloved Skellig.She felt like a ghost. She woke in the night. What was that music?Sylvia has never been so far away. Her mother has brought her to this village, this place of silence and dark, endless forest, and she yearns for the city, the bright lights, her friends, even a phone signal.Late one night she hears the music, a weird jagged spiralling sound. It is played by Gabriel, a troubled, beautiful boy.Gabriel uses the strangest of flutes, a hollow bone. Play it well enough, he says, and you cross the borders between the living and the dead.Sylvia knows she''ll follow him into the depths of the forest. But will they ever find their way out again?PrTrade ReviewLyrical...hypnotic and beautifully written * The Daily Mail *This tale from rural Northumberland will stick with you...He explores our place in the world, our connection to nature. At some point it becomes a rather Blakean tale of self-discovery...rich, wise, and never boring * The Times Children's Book of the Week *A breathtakingly beautiful and lyrical novel * The Bookseller *A remarkable book that already feels like a classic, it is sure to become one * The Irish Times *Mystical * Financial Times *David Almond's novels are so simple on the surface, so hauntingly mysterious in their depths * Financial Times *This is a book of hope and joy - get out of your comfort zone, explore the extraordinary, get in touch with nature and share in the belief that young & old can create a better world. * Young Writers *

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Book SynopsisAdapted by the author from his award-winning debut novel, and staged at the National Theatre, directed by Trevor Nunn and performed by an all-star cast in 2002.Trade ReviewLyrical, innovative and unforgettably moving. * Sunday Express (Cressida Cowell) *Lyrical, innovative and moving...unforgettably moving -- Cressida Cowell * Sunday Express *The book I wish I'd written is Skellig by David Almond. Almond's book has a great sense of the mysterious; we are left with a sense of wonder. I wish that I had written it! -- Joseph Delaney * Books For Keeps *This modern classic has been reissued in a beautiful 15th anniversary edition -- Lorna Bradbury * The Sunday Telegraph *An exquisitely crafted book with a mystical core * The Daily Telegraph *The sort of children's book that makes adults find excuses to read more of them * Times Educational Supplement *Hard to put down -- Liz Lightfoot * The Daily Telegraph *Refusing to read this book on the grounds that you are not a child makes as much sense as refusing to read crime fiction because you are not a criminal. A deep and lovely book. -- Nick Hornby * The Times *An exquisite book * The Sunday Telegraph *Brings Magical Realism to working-class Northeast England * i (The Independent) *A story full of heart and magic and big confusing emotions, elegantly told by a master craftsman. A perfect piece of art -- Lucy Christopher * Big Issue (london) *Touched with a visionary intensity, this strange, hugely readable and life-affirming tale exercises every muscle of the imagination * The Guardian *Humorous, heart-stopping and haunting...an emotional roller-coaster of a read with a cliff-hanger of a conclusion. Inspired and inspiring. * Newcastle Journal *A visionary story...a lyrical, magical kind of book which can be read on many different levels * The Daily Mail *Voted Carnegie Medal's Number one Top Book of the past 70 years * The Times *I can't eat a chinese takeaway without thinking about this strange and beautiful book about an angel who seems to have lost his way. -- Gill Harvey * The Big Issue *A bookshelf essential. * The Guardian *Deservedly popular * The Observer *Powerful and moving * Guardian.co.uk *A beautiful story which will enchant young and old alike * Western Morning News *A modern classicListed as on the of the 100 Best Children's Books Ever (Novels) * The Daily Telegraph *One of those books that you can't put down -- Junior Reviewer Conor Neison, aged 12 * Evening Echo (Cork) *Acclaim for SKELLIG (the story):'Tremendously innovative, highly original and very moving. David Almond is a fascinating new voice.' * MELVIN BURGESS *This is a story which burns bright from first to last, and for long after the last is over. * MICHAEL MORPURGO *Touched with a visionary intensity, this strange, hugely readable and life-affirming tale exercises every muscle of the imagination. * THE GUARDIAN *Tense and involving ... something not to miss. * THE INDEPENDENT *Gripping, beautiful and brilliantly written ... everyone is raving about this unforgettable book. * THE SUNDAY TIMES *A stunning debut ... an extraordinary book. * THE SUNDAY TELEGRAPH *Acclaim for WILD GIRL, WILD BOY:'Touching, beautifully focused.' * THE STAGE *

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Book SynopsisA uniquely presented, touching tale of grief, solace and hope from a master of contemporary storytelling and a visionary artist.Imagine you wrote a story and that story came true. This is exactly what happens to Blue Baker when he writes about a savage living alone in the woods near his home. After his dad's death, Blue finds comfort in dreaming of a wild kid who survives on a diet of berries and the occasional hapless passer-by. But when the savage pays a night-time visit to the local bully, boundaries become blurred and Blue begins to wonder where he ends and the savage begins. Part novel, part graphic novel, this moving story features striking art from the award-winning Dave McKean.Trade ReviewThis book grabs the reader from the first page. * Scotland on Sunday *Remarkable story. * The Times *This is an extremely touching and cleverly conceived story within a story of how wounds can gradually heal and sadness fade: it is excellently served by its design, layout and high production values. * The Irish Times *

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Book SynopsisAn anthology of dark, powerful and moving short stories from a master storyteller and Hans Christian Andersen Award winning author, inspired by his childhood in the north-east of England.A diverse collection of stories from the author of the internationally award-winning Skellig, deftly interwoven with illuminating autobiographical pieces on the inspirations behind the fiction. David Almond says of this unique volume, Stories on the page are so beautifully neat. All that lovely black print; those lovely straight lines and paragraphs and pages. But stories are living things, creatures that move and grow in the imaginations of writer and reader. They must be solid and touchable, like the land, and must have fluid half-known depths, like the sea. These stories take place in a real world but in fiction, real worlds merge with dreamed worlds. Real people walk with ghosts and figments. Earthly truth goes hand-in-hand with watery lies.Trade ReviewThis coming of age collections of stories inspired by Almond’s childhood in the north east, which of course is so prevalent through his work. * The Bookseller *The work of a writer of great power, and a living insight for teenage readers into the power of imagination and the way that stories grow from seed to fruit * The School Librarian *The autobiographical notes are stories in themselves, encouraging young writers in their reminder that we all have the material for fiction a short memory away. . . As well as the living roots of the stories, the prefaces reveal where, how or why Almond wrote them, and that some have seen many drafts and may never be finished: more encouragement. * Observer *If anything will encourage teenagers to start writing, it is this superb masterclass in how setting, dialogue and character can convey powerful emotions in a few words. * Daily Mail *A powerful collection of stories, interleaved by Almond’s memories of the places he grew up in. It’s a meditation on the power of stories . . . extraordinary dreamy atmosphere and lyrical evocation of life by the sea. * Children’s Books Ireland Recommended Read *An absolute treat . . . he writes sparingly and beautifully. . . fiction to treasure * Books for Keeps *The tale-behind-the-tale preludes are intriguing—perhaps especially to big fans and those interested in the writing process—but the stories themselves shine brightest here. Taylor's illustrations, sometimes cartoonish, sometimes more abstract and moody, cast the Almondine experience in yet another new light. This is powerful, top-notch storytelling from Almond, who seems himself to be the titular "half a creature from the sea," in that he, as ever, fluidly blends past and future, the living and the dead, the ordinary and the transcendent. * Kirkus Reviews *

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Book SynopsisIn Stoneygate there was a wilderness, an empty space where the coal pit had once been. There, Kit met Askew, with his wild dog Jax. Askew, who ran the game called Death ... A superb book, winner of the Smarties Prize and the Michael L Printz Award.Trade ReviewMagic of a very different kind -- Erica Wagner * The Times *An enthralling, multi-layered and complex story with a tension that builds and grips the reader. A wonder ful read. * The Bookseller *A writer of subtle, page-turning and daring exactness. * The Times Educational Supplement *Extremely good. Written with an acute sense of place plus a touch of the supernatural. * The Independent *Sensitive and absorbing. * The Observer *Has the same mesmerising quality of writing and a hauntingly intense plot. * The Sunday Times *The book treats all the great universal themes of literature - love, loss, redemption, mortality - with elegant, tender simplicity, and it is bound to touch any reader of whatever age. -- Raymond Seitz * The Daily Telegraph *Very touching. * The Daily Telegraph *An essential read from an original voice. * The Daily Telegraph *A haunting read for thoughtful readers. * The Daily Telegraph *A moving rites-of-passage novel. * The Guardian Weekly *This superb piece of lyrically-written literary fiction captivates teenagers and their parents alike. * The Guardian *Almond's magic is subtle, breath-taking, redemptive. * The Times *Gripping, convincing and effortlessly well-written * The Observer Review *Dark and gripping. * The Times *Almond's masterpiece: Kit's Wilderness is one of those rare works that changes how we see the world * The Guardian *Could a children's book win the Booker? The best writing is the kind that defies categories, and Almond's Kit's Wilderness makes the grade. * The Times *You can feel the chill from the ghosts that haunt its pages. An essential read from an original voice in children's books. * The Daily Telegraph *David Almond is a writer of subtle, page-turning and daring exactness, and he applies the same potent poetic and emphatic skills in his equally moving new novel. * Times Educational Supplement *A children's book of stunning freshness and individuality. * Literary Review *Deeper and more unsettling than Almond's breakthrough book. * Books For Keeps *Dark and gripping. * The Times *

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Book SynopsisThis wonderful tale transports Mina to Kyoto, Japan, an entirely new and different cultural landscape, where she encounters the magic of origami and an older magic, too. She accepts an origami paper boat from a woman on the bus. ''Ko-ni-chi-wa,'' says the woman, ''Take it.'' And then, ''Float it.'' Mina watches as the woman''s fingers fold another elaborate paper form: creased, tugged and teased into the shape of a paper bird. She imagines what it would be like to be a sheet of paper in the woman''s hands, to become a paper Mina. The crowds around her disappear and Kyoto is gone.This is a beautiful story from one of the masters of magical realism, David Almond, with stunning illustrations from Kirsti Beautyman.Spell-binding... impossible to resist... breathless, intoxicating prose. [Almond''s] books seem to exist in their own otherworldly universe, outside all the trends in modern publishing, yet resolutely of the now. The Glasgow HeraldDavid

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Book SynopsisA heartfelt retelling of an ancient Irish tale by a master storyteller, paired with the extraordinary style of an award-winning illustrator.When young Kevin is sent to a monastery to be cared for, he yearns for the freedom of the woods and fields and misses his parents. One day he reaches out through the cell window towards the light and a blackbird lands in his hands and begins to build a nest there. Kevin waits patiently as the eggs are laid and the baby birds hatch. When they spread their tiny wings and fly off, three new wild things gone out into the world, at last Kevin can rest. PJ Lynch's atmospheric illustrations perfectly capture David Almond's moving retelling of this ancient Irish tale about the love of nature and a willingness to let go.

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewA tender story, cheerfully illustrated, about unconventional people and the freedom to be yourself. * The Sunday Times *I really like the way that David Almond writes. His descriptions are mesmerising. * Books Up North *Featured in a piece with David Almond showing readers where he works in WRD Magazine. * WRD *David Almond's glowing prose conjures a magical world, building a picture of a special girl w h o is very much a creature of the sea. […] Beatrice Alemagna's beautiful illustrations complement the text perfectly, evoking the sea, the shore, both the everyday and the mysterious: "Annie Lumsden, seal girl, fish girl, dolphin girl...”. The story and the pictures will haunt the reader long after the covers of the book are closed. * The School Librarian *“Annie Lumsden, The Girl From The Sea is tender and enchanting […] An unusual story beautifully told and presented for children of 9+. * Newbury Today *

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Book SynopsisJoe has birthday money to spend, and decides a cute dog he's seen in a pet shop window is the perfect purchase. For some reason, though, the pet shop owner is determined not to sell that particular dog This wonderful story was written by Carnegie award-winning author David Almond, and brought to life with the illustrations of Ayesha Lopez.Collins Big Cat Progress books are specifically designed for children at Key Stage 2 who have a Key Stage 1 reading level, giving them age-appropriate texts that they can read, building their confidence and fostering positive attitudes towards reading.Text type: A humorous storyCurriculum links: CitizenshipThis book has been quizzed for Accelerated Reader.

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Book SynopsisThe bestselling story about love, loss and hope that launched David Almond as one of the best children's writers of today. Winner of the Carnegie Medal and the Whitbread children's book of the Year Award. Trade ReviewLyrical, innovative and unforgettably moving. * Sunday Express (Cressida Cowell) *Lyrical, innovative and moving...unforgettably moving -- Cressida Cowell * Sunday Express *The book I wish I'd written is Skellig by David Almond. Almond's book has a great sense of the mysterious; we are left with a sense of wonder. I wish that I had written it! -- Joseph Delaney * Books For Keeps *This modern classic has been reissued in a beautiful 15th anniversary edition -- Lorna Bradbury * The Sunday Telegraph *An exquisitely crafted book with a mystical core * The Daily Telegraph *The sort of children's book that makes adults find excuses to read more of them * Times Educational Supplement *Hard to put down -- Liz Lightfoot * The Daily Telegraph *Refusing to read this book on the grounds that you are not a child makes as much sense as refusing to read crime fiction because you are not a criminal. A deep and lovely book. -- Nick Hornby * The Times *An exquisite book * The Sunday Telegraph *Brings Magical Realism to working-class Northeast England * i (The Independent) *A story full of heart and magic and big confusing emotions, elegantly told by a master craftsman. A perfect piece of art -- Lucy Christopher * Big Issue (london) *Touched with a visionary intensity, this strange, hugely readable and life-affirming tale exercises every muscle of the imagination * The Guardian *Humorous, heart-stopping and haunting...an emotional roller-coaster of a read with a cliff-hanger of a conclusion. Inspired and inspiring. * Newcastle Journal *A visionary story...a lyrical, magical kind of book which can be read on many different levels * The Daily Mail *Voted Carnegie Medal's Number one Top Book of the past 70 years * The Times *I can't eat a chinese takeaway without thinking about this strange and beautiful book about an angel who seems to have lost his way. -- Gill Harvey * The Big Issue *A bookshelf essential. * The Guardian *Deservedly popular * The Observer *Powerful and moving * Guardian.co.uk *A beautiful story which will enchant young and old alike * Western Morning News *A modern classicListed as on the of the 100 Best Children's Books Ever (Novels) * The Daily Telegraph *One of those books that you can't put down -- Junior Reviewer Conor Neison, aged 12 * Evening Echo (Cork) *Powerful and moving. * The Guardian *

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Book SynopsisAnother highly original and beautifully written novel from the award-winning author of Skellig and Kit's Wilderness. Shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal.Trade ReviewStrange and beautiful. * The Mail on Sunday *A beautiful and eerie tale. * The Guardian *Another astonishingly original novel. * The Observer *A remarkable novel about love and the heroic refusal to give in to sadness. * The Scotsman *Another beautiful book by David Almond for teenagers with yearning hearts. Surprsing, perfect and mysterious all at once. * The Times *Almond at his thought-provoking best * Time Out *Surprising, perfect and mysterious all at once . . . * The Times *With his magic realism style, he is becoming the Gabriel Garcia Marquez of children's fiction. * Janni Howker, Times Educational Supplement *David Almond understands the joy and fear of being alive better than most - Heaven Eyes is a mysterious gift of a novel. * The Times *Both original and unnerving, this really is a fantastic book. * The Bookseller *Almond's eerie tale is an astonishing piece of writing about the way that the living and the dead find comfort in each other . . . A very grown-up, totally compelling book, that, like Almond's brilliant Skellig, is about the lost and found, abandonment and redemption, love and faith - particularly faith in yourself and others. * Guardian *Beautifully written, intensely imagined, dark, ferocious yet suffused with hope, the book is a breathtaking experience. * Carousel *

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Book SynopsisAnother exceptional novel from David Almond - winner of the Whitbread Award and the Smarties Book Prize.Trade ReviewAn affecting meditation on pain, cruelty, class, belonging and the redeeming power of love. * The Sunday Times *A beautiful and brilliant novel. There really is nobody quite like Almond. * The Times *This is beautifully written and polished to a lapidary gloss. * The Guardian *A wonderful novel. * The Times *An astonishing, beautiful tale. Almond at his best. * The Daily Telegraph *A tale so marvellously told it seems a shame to label it as only for children. * The Daily Telegraph *Stays with you long after the book is closed. * The Guardian *Almond makes familiar issues fresh; his characters are finely drawn and his depiction of place perfectly realised. * The Guardian *Lyrical and atmospheric. * The Bookseller *A near-perfect piece of fiction. * Time Out *Luminous prose...every character is perfectly served by this fearless writer. * The Guardian *Subtle and energetic...a powerful and evocative study of loss. * The Times *[A] strange and haunting story. * The Observer *Once in a while a book comes along that takes over your head and your heart. [This is] such a book. * The Bookseller *Almond's best book yet...masterful in every aspect. * Financial Times *Gripping doesn't do it justice - it sweeps you up and wraps itself around you. * The Sunday Express *An uplifting, beautifully written story. * Independent on Sunday *A beautifully written, warm-hearted book. Almond's poetic, though gritty, prose avoids the pitfalls of sentimentality. * The Observer *Almond's books are always moving, uplifting tributes to the human spirit. * The Scotsman *

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Book SynopsisA stunning novel from the multi-award winning author of the modern children's classic Skellig. Clay was shortlisted for the Costa Children's Book Award and the Carnegie Medal and has been adapted by the BBC into a feature-length film.Trade ReviewAn effective, engaging story. * The Scottish Sunday Herald *Funny, mysterious, moving, frightening and so deftly constructed as to be fiercely compelling. This is extraordinary story telling. * The Sunday Times *A stunning read. * The Sunday Times *This adroit and perceptive novel has both immediate appeal and long-lasting resonance. * The Guardian *Both exhilarating and horrifying. * Time Out *Dark and thought-provoking. * The Guardian *The climax of this strange miraculous, beautiful book will make it a classroom classic. * The Times *This is the best that children's fiction has to offer. Brilliant. * The Guardian *His most mysterious and spellbinding work yet. * Daily Express *Hypnotic storytelling. * The Guardian *An astonishing journey. I believe that Almond's books should be compulsory reading in all secondary schools. -- Imogen Stubbs * The Daily Telegraph *... a work of art out of the simplest words ... * Amanda Craig, The Times *... funny, mysterious, moving, frightening, and so deftly constructed as to be fiercely compelling. ... not beneath the attention of adult readers. * Nicolette Jones, The Sunday Times *He weaves a story web, spiderlike, that holds the reader spellbound while he spins new thought-threads on universal themes * Carousel, Autumn 2005 *... lilting prose and a seamless blending of primitive magic with discerning realism. ... elegiac lyricism of a lament for lost innocence but punctuated by moments of sharply observed humour, this adroit and perceptive novel has both immediate appeal and long-lasting resonance. * The Guardian *'... another gripping read from one of the master storytellers.' * Books Quarterly *'...this story is totally accessible...an involving and thought provoking read.' * The Carnegie Medal Website *'Focusing on good and evil, love and desire and the supernatural, Clay transcends the limitations of some writing for children.' * Catriona Ferguson *

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Book SynopsisWhen a move to a new house coincides with his baby sister''s illness, Michael''s world seems suddenly lonely and uncertain. Then, one Sunday afternoon, he stumbles into the old, ramshackle garage of his new home, and finds something magical. A strange creature - part owl, part angel, a being who needs Michael''s help if he is to survive. With his new friend Mina, Michael nourishes Skellig back to health, while his baby sister languishes in the hospital. But Skellig is far more than he at first appears, and as he helps Michael breathe life into his tiny sister, Michael''s world changes forever . . .Skellig won the Carnegie Medal and the Whitbread Children''s Book Award and is now a major Sky1 feature film, starring Tim Roth and John Simm. David Almond is also winner of the 2010 Hans Christian Andersen award.Trade ReviewLyrical, innovative and unforgettably moving. * Sunday Express (Cressida Cowell) *Lyrical, innovative and moving...unforgettably moving -- Cressida Cowell * Sunday Express *The book I wish I'd written is Skellig by David Almond. Almond's book has a great sense of the mysterious; we are left with a sense of wonder. I wish that I had written it! -- Joseph Delaney * Books For Keeps *This modern classic has been reissued in a beautiful 15th anniversary edition -- Lorna Bradbury * The Sunday Telegraph *An exquisitely crafted book with a mystical core * The Daily Telegraph *The sort of children's book that makes adults find excuses to read more of them * Times Educational Supplement *Hard to put down -- Liz Lightfoot * The Daily Telegraph *Refusing to read this book on the grounds that you are not a child makes as much sense as refusing to read crime fiction because you are not a criminal. A deep and lovely book. -- Nick Hornby * The Times *An exquisite book * The Sunday Telegraph *Brings Magical Realism to working-class Northeast England * i (The Independent) *A story full of heart and magic and big confusing emotions, elegantly told by a master craftsman. A perfect piece of art -- Lucy Christopher * Big Issue (london) *Touched with a visionary intensity, this strange, hugely readable and life-affirming tale exercises every muscle of the imagination * The Guardian *Humorous, heart-stopping and haunting...an emotional roller-coaster of a read with a cliff-hanger of a conclusion. Inspired and inspiring. * Newcastle Journal *A visionary story...a lyrical, magical kind of book which can be read on many different levels * The Daily Mail *Voted Carnegie Medal's Number one Top Book of the past 70 years * The Times *I can't eat a chinese takeaway without thinking about this strange and beautiful book about an angel who seems to have lost his way. -- Gill Harvey * The Big Issue *A bookshelf essential. * The Guardian *Deservedly popular * The Observer *Powerful and moving * Guardian.co.uk *A beautiful story which will enchant young and old alike * Western Morning News *A modern classicListed as on the of the 100 Best Children's Books Ever (Novels) * The Daily Telegraph *One of those books that you can't put down -- Junior Reviewer Conor Neison, aged 12 * Evening Echo (Cork) *. . . gripping, beautiful and brilliantly written . . . Everyone is raving about this unforgettable book. * The Sunday Times *Touched with a visionary intensity, this strange, hugely readable and life-affirming tale exercises every muscle of the imagination. * The Guardian *A stunning debut . . . An extraordinary book. * The Sunday Telegraph *the most lyrical children's author now writing * The Guardian *'Truly original, mysterious and affecting . . . Almond treads with delicate certainty, and the result is something genuine and true' * Philip Pullman, The Guardian *'Tremendously innovative, highly original and very moving.' * Melvin Burgess *'it's a wonderfully original and beautifully written story and, oddest of all for a children's book, it manages to address the unlikely theme of spirituality with beguiling delicacy.' * The Irish Times *'His characters are proper, complex portraits of children that don't succumb to the gender clichés prevalent in children's fiction.' * The Irish Times *'A deep and lovely book' * The Times *'A bookshelf essential.' * The Guardian *A beautifully told modern fairytale. * Observer *

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Book SynopsisThere''s an empty notebook lying on the table in the moonlight. It''s been there for an age. I keep on saying that I''ll write a journal. So I''ll start right here, right now. I open the book and write the very first words: My name is Mina and I love the night. Then what shall I write? I can''t just write that this happened then this happened then this happened to boring infinitum. I''ll let my journal grow just like the mind does, just like a tree or a beast does, just like life does. Why should a book tell a tale in a dull straight line?And so Mina writes and writes in her notebook, and here is her journal, Mina''s life in Mina''s own words: her stories and dreams, experiences and thoughts, her scribblings and nonsense, poems and songs. Her vivid account of her vivid life.In this stunning book, David Almond revisits Mina before she has met Michael, before she has met Skellig.Shortlisted for the 2012 Carnegie Medal.Trade ReviewA wonderful book. It is joyous. Thank you, David Almond; I cannot remember when a book filled me with such claminosity. -- Marcus Sedgewick * Guardian.co.uk *A skillful, affecting and impassioned book. * The Times *A celebration of the richness of the everyday world and to read it is to feel uplifted. * The Sunday Times *A rare and beautiful novel. * The Scotsman *A pitch-perfect prequel to Skellig. A gloriously rich, multi-layered novel. * Ham & High *A poignant, heart-warming novel fuelled by Almond's generosity of spirit and his endorsement of childhood's individuality and quirkiness. * Books for Keeps *Another gem from this award-winning author. * INIS (Ireland) *A sensational meditation on creativity and the power of words. A must for any budding writer. * The Daily Telegraph *Almond's chatty, informal and unique writing is different from anything you have read by him before. * Newcastle Upon Tyne Evening Chronicle *Almond promotes and celebrates freedom for children and their thinking in this lyrical book about growing up. * The Guardian *A joyous celebration of what it means to be young and alive and enquiring. * Times Educational Supplement *A truly remarkable book. A extraordinary masterpiece. * School Librarian *One of the stand-out novels of the year. * The Bookseller *a master novelist * Independent *Intensely moving, this is a profoundly uplifting expression of joy, imagination and consciousness. Absolutely brilliant * The Newcastle Journal *There really is nobody quite like Almond writing in children's or adults' fiction today. * The Times *a writer of subtle, page-turning and daring exactness. * Times Educational Supplement *Almond manages to make a work of art out of the simplest words. * Amanda Craig, The Times *David Almond is a fine writer, one of the very finest we have. He is simply incapable of writing a bad sentence. * Michael Morpurgo *'Another brilliant novel from a master storyteller.' * Carousel *Unsettling but, as ever, beautifully written. * Daily Mail *'... exceptional, delicate writing ... make a moving and thoughtful story told with exceptional elegance.' * Julia Eccleshare *'exquisite prose which sparkles off the page' * Writeaway *BACKLIST REVIEWS: 'a book of startling quality and tremendous beauty' * The Bookbag *David Almond's novels all have a unique, mystical thread running through them. He weaves a story web, spiderlike, that holds the reader spellbound while he spins new though-threads on universal themes. * Carousel *One of these days, someone is going to notice that David Almond has been kidnapped by children's publishing and demand him back for adults. But until then, we must rejoice in every new offering of his. * Sunday Telegraph *"superb coming-of-age novel from one of our master story-tellers." * Bookseller *"This is a novel of power and beauty." * The Daily Telegraph *A remarkable and thought-provoking prequel. * INIS *A standalone exploration of a child's relationship with language, ideas and living things... the reader is with her all the way. * Observer *The creative way Mina uses words to explore her dreams and ideas will inspire anyone who's ever kept a diary. * Alice, 17, Dorset *'A celebration of the richness of the everyday world... to read it is to feel uplifted.' * Sunday Times *A sensational meditation on creativity and the power of words. * The Daily Telegraph *Almond promotes and celebrates freedom for children and their thinking in this lyrical book about growing up. * Guardian (Julia Eccleshare) *Incredibly moving. * Sunday Express *A glorification of imagination. David Almond has created a novel that will excite, astound and inspire adults and children alike. * English Association Journal *

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Book SynopsisMichael was looking forward to moving into a new house. But now his baby sister is ill, his parents are frantic, and Doctor Death has come to call. Michael feels helpless. Then he steps into the crumbling garage and encounters a strange being who changes his world forever.

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"Almond makes a triumphant debut in the field of children's literature with prose that is at once eerie, magical, and poignant."--Publishers Weekly, Starred"A powerful, atmospheric story . . . the marvelous and everyday mix in haunting, memorable ways."--Kirkus Reviews, Pointer"A lovingly done, thought-provoking novel."--School Library Journal, Starred"Its strength as a novel is in its subtlety. . . . Skellig is a fine book."--The New York Times Book Review"Some of the writing takes one's breath away."--Booklist, Starred

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Book SynopsisAre me feet off the floor yet? Are me feet off the floor? In a rainy town in the north of England, there are strange goings-on. Dad is building a pair of wings, eating flies, and feathering his nest. Auntie Doreen is getting cross and making dumplings. Mr Poop is parading the streets, shouting louder and louder, and even Mr Mint, the head teacher, is getting in a flap. And watching it all is Lizzie, missing her mam and looking after her dad and thinking how beautiful the birds are. What''s behind it all? It''s the Great Human Bird Competition, of course. Who will be the first to fly across the River Tyne?David Almond''s barmy, tender and funny tale about wings and faith, written for the Young Vic to accompany their production of Skellig. It has since been performed many times around the world, and also adapted by Almond into a much-loved, much-translated novel, with illustrations by Polly Dunbar.

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Book SynopsisMysterious and utterly mesmerizing, this graphic-novel-within-a-novel pairs the extraordinary prose of David Almond with the visual genius of Dave McKean.Blue Baker is writing a story — not all that stuff about wizards and fairies and happily ever after — a real story, about blood and guts and adventures, because that's what life's really like. At least it is for Blue, since his dad died and Hopper, the town bully, started knocking him and the other kids around. But Blue's story has a life of its own — weird and wild and magic and dark — and when the savage pays a nighttime visit to Hopper, Blue starts to wonder where he ends and his creation begins.

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Book SynopsisCrackpot notions, community spirit, and sky-high aspirations transform a quiet boy’s life in this whimsical tale from the stellar team of David Almond and Polly Dunbar.There are some strange ideas floating around in Paul’s apartment block. There’s Mabel, who now calls herself Molly and whose brother hides under a paper bag. Then there’s Clarence, the poodle who thinks he can fly. But the strangest notion of all is Paul’s. You see, Paul believes that the moon is not the moon but a great hole in the sky. And he knows that sausages are better than war. How on earth (or not) will he find out if he is bonkers or a genius? With a few equally bonkers (or genius) helpers and a very long ladder, that’s how! From a master of magical realism and a celebrated artist comes another delightfully outrageous expedition.

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Book SynopsisThe imagination of three children takes on unexpected life in a creation tale from the dream team of David Almond and Dave McKean.The gods have created a world that is safe and calm and rather wonderful. They have built mountains, forests, and seas and filled the world with animals, people, and unnamed beasts. Now their days are fat with long naps in the clouds, mutual admiration, and tea and cake. But their world has gaps in it filled with emptiness, gaps that intrigue Harry, Sue, and little Ben until they begin to see what might fill them. One by one the children conjure, from twigs and leaves and stones, a mousy thing, a chirpy thing, and a twisty legless thing. But as the children’s ideas grow bolder, the power of their visions proves greater and more dangerous than they, or the gods, could ever have imagined. Is it possible to unmake what’s been made?

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Book SynopsisMaster storyteller David Almond presents a beautiful collection of short fiction, interwoven with pieces that illuminate the inspiration behind the stories.May Malone is said to have a monster in her house, but what Norman finds there may just be the angel he needs. Joe Quinn’s house is noisy with poltergeists, or could it be Davie’s raging causing the disturbance? Fragile Annie learns the truth about herself in a photograph taken by a traveling man near the sea. Set in the northern English Tyneside country of the author’s childhood, these eight short stories by the incomparable David Almond evoke gritty realities and ineffable longings, experiences both ordinary and magical. In autobiographical preludes to each story, the writer shows how all things can be turned into tales, reflecting on a time of wonder, tenderness, and joy.

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Book SynopsisFrom the masterful David Almond comes a joyful, wistful story of boyhood, running, and tales of days gone by, in a beautiful gift edition illustrated in full color.Liam just wants to go out running with his mates—the Junior Great North Run is not far away, and there’s training to be done. But Mam needs him today, to help old Harry clear out his house. And Harry knows a thing or two about running. When he was a lad, he says, he ran from Newcastle to South Shields. “But Harry,” says Mam, “it’s thirteen miles!” Harry grins. “Different days,” he says. Here is the story of that day: of sweltering heat, clattering boots, briny sea air, and the heavenly taste of ice cream; the day when Harry and his pals ran and ran and ran through the blazing sunlight all the way to the sea.

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Book SynopsisDavid Almond is now known around the world as the author of the novels Skellig, Kit''s Wilderness and The Savage. His first two books Sleepless Nights (1985) and A Kind of Heaven (1997) were published by Iron Press, a selection of which appears in Nesting alongside two previously unpublished tales. The stories draw deeply from the Tyneside estate of Almond''s childhood, exploring the themes that would inform his later work, and displaying all the rhythm, lyricism and drive for which he is acclaimed today.A master storyteller.The IndependentThere is nobody quite like Almond writing in adults'' or children''s fiction today. A writer of visionary, Blakean intensity. The TimesDavid Almond''s books are strange, unsettling wild things. They are, like all great literature, beyond classification.The GuardianDavid Almond was born in Newcastle upon Tyne. His many awards include the Whitbread Children''s Book Award (twice), the Carnegie Medal and the Hans Christian Andersen Award. My Name is Nina, the prequel to Skellig, was published in 2010. His books have been translated into over 40 languages, and adapted for both stage and screen. He now lives in Northumberland.This book is also available as a eBook. Buy it from Amazon here.

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Book SynopsisShe made her marks.She whispered her words.Then she said,Go on. Be happy. Up you go.When Nanty Solo comes to town, she says she can turn children into birds. The parents are skeptical, but the children want to fly. And before very long, everyone does. A celebratory, lyrical story that will make your heart and imagination soar. Written by internationally acclaimed author David Almond and brought to life in glorious uplifting paintings by award-winning illustrator Laura Carlin.Trade ReviewA beautiful, whimsical, heart-lifting picture book by a writer who makes words soar and an artist with an elegant, unconventional style, about defying rules and daring to fly. -- Nicolette Jones * Sunday Times *Almond, as ever, champions flights of the imagination. -- Sally Morris * Sally Morris' children's books of the year, Daily Mail *The haunting childlike illustrations by Laura Carlin add to the mysteriousness of it all. -- Melanie McDonagh * Evening Standard *a sliver of Nanny McPhee and a strong shadow of Roald Dahl’s favouring of the child view over the cynical adult, this is a beguiling treat. Part fable, part celebration of the limitlessness of childhood imagination, Carlin’s ever-shifting illustrations build an ethereal mood * The Best Children's Books of 2022, The Big Issue *The story captures the soaring freedom of imagination, alive to all children, too precious to be forgotten. It’s so beautifully told, the words sparkle, and Laura Carlin’s illustrations are magnificent. * Juno *The gentle moral of this story is that it is never too late to search for the things that make you happy in life. Every page is filled with colorful, soft-focus sketches that perfectly compliment the text. * SLC Reviews *Carlin's mixed-media illustrations employ a childlike style that features simple shapes, indistinct borders, and effective use of color. [...] While the story details may disturb some, Almond's lyrical text and intriguing ideas offer much food for thought. * Booklist *With hints of Roald Dahl and P.L. Travers, Almond’s brief, electrifying tale champions defying convention and embracing risk. * Publishers Weekly *If you have ever wondered what it might be like to fly, just like the birds all around us, to see the world from you above, to sprinkle a touch of magic into your life then The Woman Who Turned Children Into Birds will be the book that you will fall in love with. * Armadillo Magazine *Full of playful language, there’s a fable like feel to David Almond’s tale and Laura Carlin’s wonderful mixed media illustrations show an aura of light surrounding each transformation as it occurs. A story to revisit over and over with the possibility of new meaning emerging with each reading. * Red Reading Hub *gently and stubbornly idealistic about the spirit ready to soar within every child. * Just Imagine, Favourite Books of 2022 *It’s like being given an idealistic tale that’s secretly been wrapped up in a puzzle-box, and the wrapping is glorious. * Just Imagine *Featured in the October Previews -- Charlotte Eyre * The Bookseller *This extraordinary masterpiece, interwoven with subtle layers of meaning, is beautifully adorned with Carlin’s unmistakable mixed-media illustrations. It is a true classic that leaves an indelible mark, resonating with its harmonious rhythm and cohesive storytelling. * Books for Keeps *

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Book SynopsisThe dream team of David Almond and Dave McKean bring us a complete story set in an incomplete world.The gods have created a world they''ve built mountains, a sea and a sky and now their days are filled with long naps in the clouds (and tea and cake). That''s until Harry, Sue and Little Ben begin to fill the gaps of the world: with a mousy thing, a chirpy thing and a twisty legless thing. As the children''s ideas take shape, the power of their visions proves to be greater than they, or the gods, could ever have imagined.Trade ReviewA powerful and highly imaginative graphic novel. * Guardian *An original fable of creation and imagination loaded with both playfulness and darkness. * Booklist *Genuinely thought-provoking fiction. -- Robert Dunbar * Irish Times *A] striking graphic creation tale * Carousel *[A] striking graphic creation tale * Carousel *

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Book SynopsisJoin a father and daughter as they find their wings together and take to the skies in this funny, tender tale from the master of contemporary storytelling.A warm and wonderfully wacky tale told with heart and hope by the Carnegie award winning author David Almond. Lizzie and Dad live in a rainy town in the north of England. It''s just the two of them, and Auntie Doreen, who pops round to check Lizzie''s spellings and tell Dad he''s daft and make them nice hot dumplings. But today there''s something unusual going on: why is Dad building himself a pair of wings and studying the birds to see how they fly? The Great Human Bird Competition of course!Trade ReviewIt’s a story about love and it gives the reader a wonderful sense of joy about what it means to be alive. You will have read nothing else quite like it. -- Independent Bookshop Week supplement * The Guardian *

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Book SynopsisA warm and thought-provoking tale from a master storyteller, winner of the prestigious Hans Christian Andersen Award and author of the Carnegie Medal-winning Skellig.Mam, did you think George was, I say, a bit weird?Weird? Yes, I suppose so. But you kids are all a bit weird if you ask me. And to tell the truth, it'd be weird if you weren't.When a new boy joins the class, everyone thinks he's a bit strange, but he's brilliant at football and loves crisps, and that's all that matters to Dan and Maxie. However, the truth about George is stranger than anyone could have imagined ... and more sinister, too. Can his new pals help him to become truly free?Trade ReviewAlmond takes a thought-provoking look at AI, and what it means to be human, in an illustrated story set in the north-east of England. -- Fiona Noble * The Bookseller *Cleverly disguised as a heist, Almond ’s moving page-turner ponders nothing less than humanity and free will, and how to have a great time in the woods. * The Observer (The New Review) *It would be a pity to spoil the ending of Brand New Boy, particularly as Almond balances suspense and reveal so delicately in this page-turning laugh-aloud book. Still, a young reader paying close attention might just guess - and will congratulate themselves for their cleverness. * The Irish Times *David Almond tackles deep philosophical themes with an invisibly light touch in this funny story about George, a new boy at school. * The Daily Mail, The Irish Daily Mail & The Scottish Daily Mail *Like so many of David Almond’s books, this ends up being a celebration of humanity and wonder, and of what it feels like to be young. * The Times & The Irish Times *I really liked the plot of this book as I couldn’t guess what George’s secret was until it was revealed half way through. Then the story gets really exciting as the friends try to save their strange new friend. If you like exciting books that are told by the child themselves, I think you will like this book. -- Ted (Age 9) * Books Up North *Intriguing, slightly creepy and ultimately rather profound, this will encourage its young readers to ponder what life is really for, and what their future might hold. Wonderful stuff. * The Big Issue *This is a story that will make readers think about what it is to be human, about how to live life to the fullest, and about the importance of love. Marta Altes’ fine illustration style is full of emotion - you'll find yourself poring over her drawings again and again. Whilst this is a funny and easy to read book, it's also sad and rather profound in places, ending on a beautiful uplifting note.Fans of David Almond have come to expect great things from his stories, and this is no exception, showcasing children’s fiction at its best. It may also be a great gateway book to his classics Skellig and My Name is Mina. * BookTrust *The story of their glorious day in the woods with George is told with great tenderness and delight, both in the natural world and the free play of primary. * The School Librarian *

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Book SynopsisThat's reet, lad! Run! There's a wolf at your tail! Run for your lovely life! A joyful, uplifting story of times gone by, from the internationally acclaimed author of Skellig.

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Book SynopsisA magical story about finding your identity from one of the most acclaimed storytellers of his generation, richly illustrated in full colour by an internationally renowned artist.My mother says that all things can be turned to tales. I thought she meant tales like fish tails, but I was wrong. She meant tales like this, tales that are stories. But this tale of mine is very like a fish tail too...Annie has never been like the other girls. Her mam tried sending her to school when she was small, but Annie couldn't seem to make words or numbers stick. She prefers instead to be swimming in the sea, or sunbathing on the shore at Stupor Beach, her head full of tales. She should have been a fish, her mam always tells her, and Annie knows the truth of it. Then a stranger who comes to town is struck by the beauty and the wonder of her, and Annie Lumsden realizes that perhaps she really is half a creature from the sea.Trade ReviewA tender story, cheerfully illustrated, about unconventional people and the freedom to be yourself. * The Sunday Times *I really like the way that David Almond writes. His descriptions are mesmerising. * Books Up North *Featured in a piece with David Almond showing readers where he works in WRD Magazine. * WRD *David Almond's glowing prose conjures a magical world, building a picture of a special girl who is very much a creature of the sea. […] Beatrice Alemagna's beautiful illustrations complement the text perfectly, evoking the sea, the shore, both the everyday and the mysterious: "Annie Lumsden, seal girl, fish girl, dolphin girl...”. The story and the pictures will haunt the reader long after the covers of the book are closed. * The School Librarian *Annie Lumsden, The Girl From The Sea is tender and enchanting […] An unusual story beautifully told and presented for children of 9+ * Newbury Today *

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Book SynopsisA warm and witty tale from a master storyteller, author of Carnegie Medal-winning Skellig and internationally bestseller The Boy Who Swam with Piranhas.Bert and Betty Brown have got themselves a little angel. Bert found him in his top pocket when he was driving his bus.Bert and Betty's friends think he's lovely. So do Nancy and Jack and Alice from Class 5K. What a wonder!But Acting Head Teacher Mrs Mole is not so sure. Nor is Professor Smellie. Or the mysterious bloke in black who claims to be a School Inspector.Then there's Basher Malone big, lumbering Basher Malone. He REALLY doesn't like Angelino. And it looks like he's out to get him...Trade Review“Almond’s books for younger readers are always a treat […] This is charming, profound and very funny, and Smith’s exuberant black-and-white illustrations are real humour.” * The Bookseller *“Award-winning David Almond’s new story for younger reader is a delightfully lightly told, warm-hearted story perfect for all those who are willing believe in a little bit of something special. […] David Almond inspires readers’ imagination and raises questions about definitions of good and bad. It is a wonderful book.” – * Julia Eccleshare, LoveReading *[…] this is a charmingly goofy story […] For all its superficial puerility, The Tale of Angelino Brown returns, like Almond’s other novels, to death: this is a poignant book about grief. […] grown up readers will be touched by it, too. * The Daily Telegraph *“As ever, there is joy to be had in Almond's ear for the beauty and rhythm of everyday speech, and Alex T Smith's illustrations are cheeky and apt.” * The Literary Review *“This lovely, heart-warming story from award-winning author, David Almond is full of humour wisdom and fun. With fantastic illustrations by Alex T. Smith, it’s a gorgeous celebration of imagination, creativity and wonder that will leave you with a huge smile on your face.” * The Week Junior, Children’s Book of the Week *

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Book SynopsisA beautifully imagined story for fans of Neil Gaiman, by the dream team of bestselling author, David Almond and award-winning artist, Dave McKean.Joe Quinn tells everyone about the poltergeist in his house, but no one believes him. No one that is, except for Davie. He's felt the inexplicable presence in the rooms, he's seen random objects fly through the air. And there's something else a memory of his beloved sister, and a feeling deep down that somehow it might be possible for ghosts to exist.Trade Review“Strangeness also saturates David Almond’s graphic-novel collaboration with Dave McKean Blurring the boundaries between text and image, child and adult, life and afterlife, Almond and McKean create a sense of the meeting point between the human and sublime.” * The Guardian *“In the arresting style of their earlier collaborations, McLean’s visuals give life to the dark, otherworldly soul of Almond’s short story.” * The Bookseller, Children’s March Previews *“Each page is a work of art…Combining the demotic and the lyrical, Almond continues to mine the language and circumstances of his own youth, and to reveal the weighty emotional and spiritual moments of young lives.” * Sunday Times, Children’s Book of the Week *“DAVID ALMOND’S brilliant books explore powerful emotions of grief and hope, the balance between the ordinary and extraordinary, reality and the supernatural. In this stunning graphic story, created with longtime collaborator Dave McKean, he draws on the death of his own baby sister, Barbara, when Almond was just seven… Set against the backdrop of Almond’s beloved Tyneside terraced streets, with troubled priests, footballing youths and broken families, the thought-provoking tale is brought vividly to life by McKean’s powerful illustrations.” * Sally Morris, The Daily Mail *“…a wonderfully immersive tale, told with David Almond’s trademark melancholy grit and wit.” * Financial Times *

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Book SynopsisFrom Hans Christian Andersen Medal-winning author David Almond comes a heartwarming story that shows anything is possible with imagination and trust.What should a puppet master do when he's old and alone, and all his puppets are gone? Sylvester makes one last puppet. But this one is different. When the old man speaks to him, Puppet speaks back. And then he walksWhile Sylvester shows Puppet the town, the playground and the wonders the world holds, Puppet in turn helps Sylvester to make a new friend, and share his puppet-making skills with the next generation in this wonder-filled story of creation and the circle of life.Illustrated with sequences of wordless spreads by award-winning artist Lizzy Stewart, this is a modern-day classic.

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Book SynopsisMam, did you think George was, I say, a bit weird?Weird? Yes, I suppose so. But you kids are all a bit weird if you ask me. And to tell the truth, it'd be weird if you weren't.When a new boy joins the class, everyone thinks he's a bit strange, but he's brilliant at football and loves crisps, and that's all that matters to Dan and Maxie. However, the truth about George is stranger than anyone could have imagined ... and more sinister, too. Can his new pals help him to become truly free?Trade ReviewAlmond takes a thought-provoking look at AI, and what it means to be human, in an illustrated story set in the north-east of England. -- Fiona Noble * The Bookseller *Cleverly disguised as a heist, Almond ’s moving page-turner ponders nothing less than humanity and free will, and how to have a great time in the woods. * The Observer (The New Review) *David Almond tackles deep philosophical themes with an invisibly light touch in this funny story about George, a new boy at school. * The Daily Mail, The Irish Daily Mail & The Scottish Daily Mail *Like so many of David Almond’s books, this ends up being a celebration of humanity and wonder, and of what it feels like to be young. * The Times & The Irish Times *I really liked the plot of this book as I couldn’t guess what George’s secret was until it was revealed half way through. Then the story gets really exciting as the friends try to save their strange new friend. If you like exciting books that are told by the child themselves, I think you will like this book. -- Ted (Age 9) * Books Up North *

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Book SynopsisWinner of the Guardian children''s book prize 2015I''m the one who''s left behind. I''m the one to tell the tale. I knew them both... knew how they lived and how they died. Claire is Ella Grey''s best friend. She''s there when the whirlwind arrives on the scene: catapulted into a North East landscape of gutted shipyards; of high arched bridges and ancient collapsed mines. She witnesses a love so dramatic it is as if her best friend has been captured and taken from her. But the loss of her friend to the arms of Orpheus is nothing compared to the loss she feels when Ella is taken from the world. This is her story - as she bears witness to a love so complete; so sure, that not even death can prove final.Trade ReviewInfused with lyricism and with the fire and oddness of adolescence. Fresh, involving and lucid, it is a song in itself, and teens will find it fills them with poignant longing and joy. * The Daily Telegraph *A desperately romantic and deeply lyrical re-imagining of Orpheus and Eurydice... David Almond at his best. * * * * * * Bookbag *Passages of magic. * Financial Times *Beautifully written... poetic and allusive. * Irish Times *Spell-binding... impossible to resist... breathless, intoxicating prose. [Almond's] books seem to exist in their own otherworldly universe, outside all the trends in modern publishing, yet resolutely of the now. * The Glasgow Herald *Lyrical and dreamlike, this beautifully written story conjures up the insane intensity of first love and the effect it has on those caught up in its slipstream. Authentic teenage characters and attitudes, and Almond's control of emotion is superb. * Daily Mail *Almond's writing is superb. * Irish Daily Mail *A ravishing, ingenious novel told in Almond's own hypnotic northern lilt. * The Scotsman *A retelling of the myth of Orpheus... Almond's version is a revelation: his poetic prose seeps into your blood like word-venom until you can't imagine reading anything else (Children's Book of the Week) * The Times *a strong sense of mystery...lyrical... poetic...moves in a deliberate dreamlike way. A beautiful book that works on several levels A triumph. (Marcus Sedgwick) * The Guardian *A plangent tale of adolescent passion which re-packages the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. Almond injects it with lyrical beauty and life. * Books for Keeps *Intriguing adaptation of the tale of Orpheus, skilfully crafted and blended with modern teen life and a real flavour of Northumberland. Haunting. * Peters eGazette *Almond is an incredibly powerful storyteller. Poetic... dreamlike and lyrical. A devastatingly poignant novel. * Newcastle Chronicle *A desperately romantic and deeply lyrical re-imagining of the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. Full of the hums and thrums of emotions, landscape, music and poetry, it's David Almond at his best. * The Bookbag *Bliddy marvellous, as his Geordie protagonists would say. * The Independent on Sunday *A masterly retelling of the Orpheus myth. Lyrical prose is matched with equally beautiful passages. * Financial Times *Extraordinary. * Metro *Beautiful writing. * The Independent *Almond's lyrical prose fits the story perfectly. * The Mail on Sunday *A revelation. Poetic prose seeps into your blood like word venom until you can't imagine reading anything else. * The Times *Beautiful and bewitching. * Daily Express *The writing is just so magical... A stunning book which I will definitely read again. -- The Best Children's Books of 2014 * The Guardian *David Almond is a dazzling writer...exceptional... a breathtaking novel from a literary master. * Daily Express *A daring reworking of Orpheus amd Eurydice... a sense of transcendence... lush poetic prose. * Sunday Times *Haunting poetic novel. * Irish Times *If somebody asked me to describe A Song for Ella Grey in word, I would have to tell them that I couldn't...it would be impossible to write it off in just a word * The Guardian Online *It's a desperately romantic and deeply lyrical reimagining of the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. Full of the hums and thrums of emotions, landscape, music and poetry, it's David Almond at his best * The Bookbag *A revelation: his poetic prose seeps into your blood like word venom until you can't imagine reading anything else -- Alex O'Connell * The Times *Extraordinary -- Imogen Russell Williams * The Metro *Almond's lyrical prose fits the story perfectly * The Mail on Sunday *Beautiful writing...this is an author always on the side of the young, and as such offers a valuable counterweight to fashionable gloom in other teenage writing -- Nicholas Tucker * The Independent *I thought the author told the story extremely well and I would recommend this book to anyone in their teens. -- Charlie Barraclough (aged 14) * Western Gazette *Skillfully crafted and blended...accessible with engaging main characters and haunting memorable plot. * Peters eGazette *Intensely lyrical and oddly haunting...Almond's prose is a delight, each word so carefully chosen and melded to make a myth of contemporary adolescence * School Librarian *Capturing the intensity of first love and its power to overcome even death, Almond's prose is a delight, each word so carefully chosen and melded to make a myth of comtemporary adolescence...will surprise and enthrall teenage readers in equal measure * Scool Librarian *David Almond is a powerful storyteller and I was completely swept away by his latest poetic prose * Carousel *A challenging but riveting read -- Sophie Innes, Trinity Academy * Teen Titles *It is a challenging but riveting read * Teen Titles *Almond's poetic prose is especially apt for this tale -- one that moves in a deliberate, dreamlike way -- Marcus Sedgewick * The Guardian *This is the most beautifully written, haunting book for young adults that I have ever read * Bristol Magazine *This year I loved A Song for Ella Grey by David Almond ... a powerful, lyrical book that's absorbing and moving and haunting * The guardian.com *[David Almond] is becoming the Gabriel Garcia Marquez of Children's Fiction. -- Janni Howker * TES *This is absolutely beautiful and quite possibly my favourite Almond novel to date. The story of Orpheus and Eurydice is retold against a wild Northumbrian landscape: life, death, love and myths. Just wonderful. -- Fiona Noble * The Bookseller *Almond is an incredibly powerful storyteller; his poetic prose perfectly suits this type of tale, being dream-like and lyrical...a devastatingly poignant novel. -- Jayne Howarth * Manchester Evening News *

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Book SynopsisFrom the bestselling, award-winning author of SKELLIG comes a vivid and moving story, beautifully illustrated, which commemorates the hundred-year anniversary of the end of the First World War. I am just a child, says John. How can I be at war?It''s 1918, and war is everywhere. John''s dad is fighting in the trenches far away in France. His mum works in the munitions factory just along the road. His teacher says that John is fighting, too, that he is at war with enemy children in Germany. One day, in the wild woods outside town, John has an impossible moment: a meeting with a German boy named Jan. John catches a glimpse of a better world, in which children like Jan and himself can come together, and scatter the seeds of peace. Gorgeously illustrated by David Litchfield, this is a book to treasure. Trade ReviewProlific and talented author - The Journal (Newcastle)Winner of the Carnegie Medal 1999 for Skellig - Times Educational SupplementWinner of the Whitbread Children's Prize for Skellig 1998 - The Daily TelegraphAble to combine emotional involvement with a real skill for storytelling in a manner rare in any writer - The Times

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Book SynopsisA darkly twisted detective ghost tale, from the winner of the Guardian Children''s Book Prize.Davie travels his small town in search of a supposed murderer. But the landscape soon starts to blur into something dark and twisted. He must make sense of the landscape, if he has any chance of finding answers. The people he encounters on his travels don''t seem entirely real either. Then he meets the victim of the murder ... but, is he dead, or alive?Trade ReviewThe book explores liminal spaces: the edgelands between child and adult, being and seeming, life and death and the human and natural worlds. * The Guardian *brilliantly suspenseful until the end...He [David Almond] is that rare thing - a writer of lucid, mature elegance, who can still see the world through adolescent eyes. -- Emily Bearn * The Daily Telegraph *David Almond at his finest...this is a lyrical and moving story about a boy on the cusp of manhood...There is a touching innocence to this book and a warmth that glows from every page. -- Beth Goodyear * The Scotsman *The Colour of the Sun is really, really something. * Woman's Way *Creating some of the finest work of his career is David Almond in The Colour of the Sun (Hodder), a semi-autobiographical novel that showcases his transcendent, otherworldly storytelling. Over the course of a single summer's day, protagonist Davie's journey through his home town and into the sunlit hills shows us life, death and the wonder of the everyday. * The Guardian *

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Book SynopsisFrom the bestselling, award-winning David Almond comes a book of hope and joy: under a boundless starry sky, the unforgettable Sylvia Carr finds out what it means to be brave. For readers of Michael Morpurgo and Katherine Rundell, from the author of the beloved Skellig.She felt like a ghost. She woke in the night. What was that music?Sylvia has never been so far away. Her mother has brought her to this village, this place of silence and dark, endless forest, and she yearns for the city, the bright lights, her friends, even a phone signal.Late one night she hears the music, a weird jagged spiralling sound. It is played by Gabriel, a troubled, beautiful boy.Gabriel uses the strangest of flutes, a hollow bone. Play it well enough, he says, and you cross the borders between the living and the dead.Sylvia knows she''ll follow him into the depths of the forest. But will they ever find their way out agaTrade ReviewLyrical...hypnotic and beautifully written * The Daily Mail *This tale from rural Northumberland will stick with you...He explores our place in the world, our connection to nature. At some point it becomes a rather Blakean tale of self-discovery...rich, wise, and never boring * The Times Children's Book of the Week *A breathtakingly beautiful and lyrical novel * The Bookseller *A remarkable book that already feels like a classic, it is sure to become one * The Irish Times *Mystical * Financial Times *David Almond's novels are so simple on the surface, so hauntingly mysterious in their depths * Financial Times *This is a book of hope and joy - get out of your comfort zone, explore the extraordinary, get in touch with nature and share in the belief that young & old can create a better world. * Young Writers *

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Book SynopsisLove, death, hope ... the island will change their lives forever. From the bestselling David Almond, author of SKELLIG, and now with fantastic illustrations by the award-winning David Litchfield. Louise has travelled with her father to the island every year since she can remember - it''s the place her mother loved best of all. The arrival of Hassan changes everything. Louise is restless and yearning for independence; meanwhile, the fiercely free and self-reliant Hassan seems to know the island from long ago as if it were his home from birth. Hassan is an acrobat, maybe a sorcerer, possibly a source of great danger. The wild boys who call the island their home want to cast him out. The forces of love, death and hope move Louise and Hassan together. The island will change their lives forever. David Almond is the author of many beloved and prize-winning books for children and teenagers. His best known work, Skellig, won the Whitbread Chi

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Book SynopsisA hopeful and moving coming-of-age story set on the island of Lindisfarne, by David Almond, author of the bestselling Skellig and A Song for Ella Grey: now with fantastic illustrations by the award-winning David Litchfield.Louise has travelled with her father to the island of Lindisfarne every year ever since she can remember - it''s the place Louise''s mother loved best of all. The arrival of Hassan from war-torn Syria changes everything. Louise is restless and yearning for independence; meanwhile, the fiercely free and self-reliant Hassan seems to know the island from long ago as if it were his home from birth. Hassan is an acrobat, maybe a sorcerer, possibly a source of great danger. The wild boys who call the island their home want to cast him out. The forces of love, death and hope move Louise and Hassan together. Lindisfarne will change their lives forever. David Almond is the author of many beloved and prize-winning books for chil

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Book SynopsisA stunning new story from the bestselling, prize-winning David Almond, unfolding the magic of the everyday. Mina, from the unforgettable Skellig and My Name is Mina, journeys to Japan and discovers the wonders of the world around her. Kyoto, Japan. Mina is on a bus. Everything is strange and beautiful. Mina watches as a woman folds a piece of paper into an origami boat, then floats it over to her. As Mina discovers the magic of origami, her eyes are opened to the wonders of the real city around her. Unfold the magic of the everyday, on a journey with one of the world''s best-loved authors - with stunning illustrations from Kirsti Beautyman in black and orange throughout.''A master storyteller.'' Independent

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Book SynopsisThe bestselling story about love, loss and hope that launched David Almond as one of the best children''s writers of today. Winner of the Carnegie Medal and the Whitbread children''s book of the Year Award, this unforgettable book now has captivating illustrations by Tom de Freston to celebrate its twenty-fifth anniversary. When a move to a new house coincides with his baby sister''s illness, Michael''s world seems suddenly lonely and uncertain.One Sunday afternoon, he stumbles into the ramshackle garage of his new home and finds something magical. A strange creature - human? beast? bird? angel? - a being who needs Michael''s help if he is to survive. With his new friend Mina, Michael nourishes Skellig back to health. But Skellig is far more than he at first appears, and as he helps Michael breathe life into his tiny sister, Michael''s world changes for ever ...Skellig won the Carnegie Medal and the Whitbread Children''s Book Award. Davi

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Book SynopsisThe Falling Boy. He could be anyone. He could be you. From the bestselling, award-winning author of Skellig comes a heartfelt, unforgettable story perfect for readers of Michael Morpurgo and The Final Year.Nothing is the same for Joff this summer. His dad is ill, his mam is working, there''s a new kid in town. He can''t wait to escape each day and explore with his dog Jet. But there''s one place he''s not allowed to explore. Above the town sits the Chapel of Doom, ancient and crumbling, with its warning signs and the legend of the Falling Boy. And when Joff''s adventures take him beyond the boundaries he discovers something unexpected, something truly magical ... Intense and compelling, this is a brilliant coming-of-age story about hope, friendship and conquering your fears, from the award-winning author of the bestselling Skellig. David Almond is a ''master storyteller'' Independent

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Book SynopsisFrom David Almond, a ''master storyteller'' IndependentNothing is the same for Joff this summer. His dad is sick, his mum is working, there''s a new kid in town. The days are long and hot, and change is in the air. With his dog, Jet, Joff explores. The Chapel of Doom is always there, ancient and crumbling, with its warning signs and the legend of the Falling Boy. But Joff isn''t going to go past those signs ... is he? Intense and compelling, this is a brilliant new story from the award-winning author of the bestselling Skellig.

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Book SynopsisAn enchanting and heart-warming story between a father and son, that will make you want to reach for stars.Joe wants to find a way to the stars. With the help of his dad, he builds a ladder, a tower, even a rocket to go up, up, up… Oh no! Crash, bang, wallop! What next?Together, the pair jump on pogo sticks and build sheds to paint their dreams and find a way. An uplifting and magical tale of sky-high courage, imagination and the bond between father and son that will make your heart soar. Written by internationally acclaimed author David Almond and brought to glorious life by award-winning illustrator Gill Smith in their first collaboration.Trade ReviewFor a soaring story of the loving bond between parent and child, A Way to the Stars… is sheer delight. -- Imogen Russell Williams * The Guardian *There aren’t enough books celebrating the relationship between fathers and sons, so this magical story… is a very welcome addition… Gently funny, emotionally warm, this is a reminder of how important the bond between parent and child can be. * Daily Mail *Almond… has been producing wildly imaginative picture books for young readers for many years… A Way to the Stars is a charming story about the bond between a father and son… This is an ode to faith and familial love. * The Big Issue *A magical and uplifting picture book that explores the bond between a father and son. * Books for Keeps *If you want a story to show resilience, then this A Way to the Stars is the go-to book! * ReadingZone *

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