Children & Teen Fiction Books

Book SynopsisLonglisted for the Carnegie Medal for Writing Rabbit and his mum have moved to the coast to run a small caravan park. Rabbit has been struggling since he saw his father die – he finds it hard to speak. When he befriends a local boy, Joe, Rabbit begins to feel better – but he keeps having strange dreams of a frightened white horse. Hunting for the animal, the two boys stumble across something much more dangerous: a man being held hostage by a criminal gang. Their discovery will set them on a dangerous path that will risk everything Rabbit holds dear…Trade Review"Powerful… this is a writer following in the footsteps of writers such as Westall, Brooks and Almond" * Books for Keeps *"The trauma of grief, the brutality of bullies, the magical realness of dreams, and the power of nature — this poetic triumph reveals we’re stronger than we think... With an urgent inferno of a climax suffused in magic and nature, the best of humanity glints through destructive flames to create a powerfully memorable story... Running with Horses brims with truths that light the way and warm the heart" * LoveReading4Kids *

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Book SynopsisSJ King loves museums, libraries, and building machines from scrap. King can usually be found exploring - from investigating tiny bugs, to trekking up enormous mountains.

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Book SynopsisA spellbinding supernatural teen drama and sequel to All Our Hidden Gifts.Maeve and her friends have revealed their powers and banded together as a coven: Roe can pick locks, Lily sends sparks flying, Maeve can read minds and Fiona can heal any injury. And even better than their newfound talents? Roe and Maeve are officially an item.But with strange things happening at school, and old enemies appearing in new places, it soon becomes clear their powers are attracting all the wrong attention. It's not long before Maeve's gift start to wane, drained by someone or something that's hiding even from her second sight...The brilliant second installment in the Hidden Gifts series, with further titles to come.Praise for All Our Hidden GiftsSo gripping, so intriguing, so layered All Our Hidden Gifts feels like a book that should have always existed. Kiran Millwood HargraveA seductive and brilTrade ReviewO’Donoghue is wonderfully attuned to the delights and agonies of adolescence. The emotional intelligence of this book, and its grasp of how friendships can be a source of fierce love and tremendous pain at different times, is what stands out here; every detail rings true. This series is Ireland’s answer to Buffy the Vampire Slayer; I adore it. -- Claire Hennessy * The Irish Times *A great blend of witchy drama and nuanced teenage relationships. * The i *The world O’Donoghue has built with its poky but believable small Irish town and distinct magic system is a pleasure to spend time in. Teen readers will love this series – but adults might learn a thing or two as well. * Irish Business Post *a book that bewitches the reader * Armadillo *Handling all the classic teenage themes of isolation, sex, feeling different and even self-sabotage with a wonderfully realistic and down-to-earth approach O’Donoghue refuses to condescend to her audience. It’s with a lightness of hand that she sketches this time of transition and self-identification, capturing the terror of making what we think are life-altering choices at 17.Brave, but incredibly relatable, these teens are written with wit, honesty and great authenticity.With great heart and empathy, O’Donoghue takes the second book in a more mature direction, but the magic of the first (All Our Hidden Gifts) remains with deeper, more intimate explorations of relationships, traumas and how finding yourself can sometimes feel like losing yourself at first…truly spellbinding. * The Irish Independent *

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Book SynopsisA bold new story for fans of We Were Liars, intertwining past and present, love and loss, from the bestselling author of The One Memory of Flora Banks.''A sun-splashed Cornish thriller with a dark heart, ideal for YA fans of E Lockhart'' Guardian ONE HOT SUMMER, FIRST LOVE AND SO MANY BURIED SECRETS . . .Senara has never been in love before. She''s not done anything exciting before. Always the sidekick . . . Until the summer that changes everything.Cliff House is closed off for most of the year until its rich Londoner owners come down to Cornwall for the summer. This year, despite herself, Senara finds herself pulled into this world of wealth and ease, sunbathing and beautiful people. She even finds herself falling in love for the first time.But Cliff House and its owners are hiding things. They''ve been hiding things for too long and now, despite all their efforts, their secrets are coming out . . . Secrets that involve Senara''s friends and her family in a way she could never have imagined.''An intoxicating mix of mystery, suspense and first love'' The Daily Mirror''A perfect holiday page-turner'' The Sunday Express''This is another young adult novel that will have younger readers transfixed'' The Metro''A slow-burn summer novel packed with intrigue'' Culturefly - 22 Books to add to your Summer Reading ListRead more captivating fiction from Emily Barr:The One Memory of Flora BanksThe Truth and Lies of Ella BlackThe Girl Who Came Out of the WoodsThings to do Before The End of the WorldGhostedTrade ReviewA slow-burn summer novel packed with intrigue. * Culturefly - 22 Books to add to your Summer Reading List *Will have readers transfixed * Metro *Original plot and charming protagonist . . . Her [Emily's] page-turning talents are put to good use as the reader accompanies a brave teenager on a journey to discover who she really is. * Irish Times on The One Memory of Flora Banks *Mesmerizing, electric, and achingly lovely . . . One of the best YA novels I've read in a very long time * Jennifer Niven on The One Memory of Flora Banks *If you like dark fiction you'll devour it * Heat - on The Truth and Lies of Ella Black *A sun-splashed Cornish thriller with a dark heart, ideal for YA fans of E Lockhart. * Guardian - Summer reading: 50 brilliant books to discover *An intoxicating mix of mystery, suspense and first love. * The Daily Mirror *A perfect holiday page-turner. * The Sunday Express *

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Book SynopsisWhen Mick rescues an injured baby jackdaw in the park, little does he know that the bird is about to change his childhood for ever. Jacko soon recovers, and Mick teaches him how to fly. It’s not long before Jacko becomes a beloved member of the community, amusing the punters in the family pub and guiding the trains into the station. As Jacko’s adventures gain greater fame, Mick has to face whether he can ever bear to say goodbye to his beloved pet jackdaw…Trade Review"A true life animal story that soars" -- LoveReading4Kids

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Book SynopsisTravel back to prehistoric times with this ice-age themed installment of DK Books'' new educational fiction series for children aged 7 to 9 years old.Meet the Secret Explorers - a band of brainiac kids from all around the world, here to take young readers on a series of fact-filled fictional adventures! Each with their own specialty, from outer space to dinosaurs, these young globetrotters will teach kids that learning can be fun, encouraging them to become experts in something they love. In this fun, fact-filled children''s book, Tamiko the dinosaur expert and Ollie the rainforest nut travel back in time to the ice age to help reunite a baby mammoth with the rest of its herd.This epic adventure is packed with: -Fun facts and illustrations about exciting prehistoric animals-Simple and informative diagrams telling kids all they need to know about woolly mammoths-Quizzes, mission notes, and a glossary of words with definitionsWith

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Book SynopsisAn exciting choose-your-path STEM adventure for emerging readers! Take a journey to the ocean's twilight zone in Search for a Giant Squid ! An exciting mixture of fiction and nonfiction, this choose-your-path style story allows readers to take on the mantle of a teuthologist looking for a giant squid in its natural habitat. Once readers pick their submersible, pilot, and dive site, the adventure begins!

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Book SynopsisFeaturing a vivid mythology, spectacular battles, and an endlessly surprising heroine, Rebel Skies is as intricate, beautiful and startling as one of the paper spirits Kurara brings to life. Jonathan StroudA magical debut that reads like a Ghibli film, brimming with imagination, action and heart. Natasha NganAn intricately constructed ode to papercraft and Japanese culture. I fell in love with this world of airships, cumulous whales and floating cities. Pure magic. Lauren JamesA beautifully written and pacy teen fantasy adventure, set in a world of flying ships, sky cities and powerful paper spirits. Inspired by Asian cultures and exploring themes of empire, slavery and freedom.Kurara has never known any other life than being a servant on board the Midori, but when her party trick of making paper come to life turns out to be a power treasured across the empire, she joins a skyship and Trade ReviewIn elegant, graceful prose, Ann Sei Lin whisks us off on a tale of eerie magic and high adventure, in which friendships are undying and nothing is as it seems. Featuring a vivid mythology, spectacular battles, and an endlessly surprising heroine, Rebel Skies is as intricate, beautiful and startling as one of the paper spirits Kurara brings to life. * Jonathan Stroud *A vividly imagined fantasy with an enticing Studio Ghibli feel for 12+ readers. * Guardian *A magical debut that reads like a Ghibli film, brimming with imagination, action and heart. It’s been a long time since I’ve been so immersed in a fantasy world. * Natasha Ngan *An intricately constructed ode to papercraft and Japanese culture. I fell in love with this world of airships, cumulous whales and floating cities. Pure magic. * Lauren James *With its grand floating cities, fearsome shikigami beasts and a heroine who can manipulate paper with her mind, Ann Sei Lin has created a truly unique world that delights on every page. * Joseph Elliott *

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Book SynopsisI knew you could do it! I knew that you could! Of everyone out there I knew that you would.A celebration of everyday accomplishments as well as life’s milestones, I Knew You Could Do It applauds anyone who has overcome hurdles and challenges, and also cheers them into the future. And for anyone who needs an infusion of support or reassurance, it tells them, 'I believe in you.'In a sturdy board book, just right for little hands to hold, this very special story comes from Nancy Tillman, bestselling author of On the Night You Were Born.

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Book Synopsis"Mamma will know what to do!"Moominmamma looks after everyone. She welcomes new visitors no matter who they are, simply setting another place at the table and making up a bed in the Moominhouse. And everything anyone could ever need is in her precious handbag – always fully stocked with sweets, tummy powder, dry socks and string.But there is more to Moominmamma than that. She is an artist, an explorer, a gardener and an adventurer. She is fearless, brave and strong – and full of surprises.The World According to Moominmamma contains quotes and illustrations from Tove Jansson's world of Moominvalley. Explore Moominmamma’s unique yet universal approach to life in this very special collection of warm words about love, life, friendship and family – perfect for Moominous mothers everywhere and an ideal gift for Mother’s Day.

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Book SynopsisCemetery Boys is an LGBTQIA+ ghost story about magic, acceptance and what it means to be your true self. From the instant New York Times-bestelling author Aiden Thomas.Yadriel has summoned a ghost, and now he can’t get rid of him.In an attempt to prove himself a true brujo and gain his family’s acceptance, Yadriel decides to summon his cousin’s ghost and help him cross to the afterlife.But things get complicated when he accidentally summons the ghost of his high school’s resident bad boy, Julian Diaz – and Julian won't go into death quietly.The two boys must work together if Yadriel is to move forward with his plan.But the more time Yadriel and Julian spend together, the harder it is to let each other go . . .'A celebration of culture and identity that will captivate readers with its richly detailed world, earnest romance, and thrilling supernatural mystery' &ndasTrade ReviewCemetery Boys is necessary: for trans kids, for queer kids, for those in the Latinx community who need to see themselves on the page. Don’t miss this book. -- Mark Oshiro, author of Anger is a GiftAiden Thomas' debut novel can't help but charm and captivate readers of all ages, though teen readers will invariably identify with and appreciate the high jinks and emotional vulnerability that make each character and scenario deliciously enchanting. * Booklist, starred review *Thomas injects the queer paranormal romance genre with a fresh shot of lavishly detailed Latinx culture, blending in Mayan, Mexican, Central American and South American traditions while commenting on cultural appropriation, deportation and class. * New York Times Book Review *This book is magical, tender, loving, and so so so important. I love it with all my heart. -- Mason Deaver, author of I Wish You All The BestThe novel perfectly balances the vibrant, energetic Latinx culture while delving into heavy topics like LGBTQ+ acceptance, deportation, colonization, and racism within authoritative establishments * TeenVogue.com *Cemetery Boys is a celebration of culture and identity that will captivate readers with its richly detailed world, earnest romance, and thrilling supernatural mystery. This delightful debut is a must-read for all paranormal romance fans. -- Isabel Sterling, author of These Witches Don't BurnThomas marries concept and execution in a romantic mystery as poignant as it is spellbinding, weaved in a mosaic of culture, acceptance, and identity, where intricately crafted characters are the pieces and love?platonic, romantic, familial, and communal?is the glue. * Publishers Weekly, starred review *Cemetery Boys is nothing short of an astonishing work of art. Aiden Thomas masterfully weaves a tale of family, friendships, and love in a heartwarming adventure full of affirmation and being your best self. -- C.B. Lee, author of Not Your SidekickA gay, transgender brujo with burgeoning powers seeks answers about his cousin’s death... Both the romance and mystery burn slow and hot until the climax... Their romance provides joyful, ground-breaking representation for gay, transgender boys. Heart-pounding. * Kirkus *A story much bigger than the paper that binds it, Cemetery Boys is the tender intricacy we have all been waiting for. -- Kayla Ancrum, author of The Wicker KingSpeaking from experience, this is the kind of book that you read and then immediately go force all your friends to read so they can share the pleasure. * Buzzfeed *A wildly memorable novel. * Paste *This one is just what your heart needs right now. * Tor.com *Thomas sensitively navigates Yadriel’s struggles as a trans teen . . . In spite of some heavy themes, this is a pleasing ghost-story-turned-romcom. * Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books *Packed with eerie adventure, tingly romance, and family drama, the novel lays bare the tension between upholding tradition and reaching full self-acceptance. Cheeky, relatable characters bring humor and lightness into Thomas’s debut, which also takes on themes of death, loss, abandonment, and rejection. * Horn Book *

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Book Synopsis Dear Nose-Pickers, are you well? Good. Then come closer. For I'm about to tell you a right slimer of a tale ... In it, there's a bogey monster, two best friends, four daredevil slugs, a neighbour so wicked she'll give you the willy-willy-woo-woos and a castle with secret chambers. Will it end happily? No ... Yes ... Sorry, I don't know! You'd better ask the cabaret-singing spider ... A fantastic slimer of a tale by the hilarious Anna Brooke Laugh-out-loud funny – Frankenstein meets bogeys! Perfect for fans of Who Let the Gods Out?, Mr Gum and Charlie Changes into a Chicken

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Book SynopsisCome with the Mob Squad on an amazing adventure through the Overworld in this official Minecraft novel!The village of Cornucopia is practically perfect in every way. Plenty of food, cozy homes, and a huge wall to keep everyone safe from the scary world outside. What more could a kid possibly need?Well, a lot, actually.Mal, a fearless girl, needs adventure, and her friends are right there with her: Lenna, a dreamer whose family underestimates her every day. Tok and Chug, brothers who love to build stuff (Tok) and smash stuff (Chug). They’re best friends, and in a town whose grown-ups value safety over bravery and fitting in over standing out, they’re the bad apples.But when a mysterious mob sneaks past Cornucopia’s defenses, the village is in huge trouble. And nobody knows what to do. Finally faced with the adventure she’s always wanted, Mal and her friends defy the rules their elders have always followed and set out be

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Book Synopsis'A rollicking, salty, breath of fresh air.' Hilary McKay'Absolutely adored it!' Emma CarrollBy the celebrated author of The Pear Affair and The Secret Starling - Patch finds adventure on every deck of the 'floating palace' she accidentally stows away on.Liverpool, 1910When Patch runs up the gangway of steamship, RMS Glorious, she isn't planning to hang around. But if she leaves her hiding place the constable might catch her: sitting tight is worth the risk. Too late, she realises the ship is setting sail! Patch has become an accidental stowaway.Luckily, Patch's unconventional past has made her pretty fearless when it comes to fending for herself, and besides there are friends in high and low places to be made onboard.But hiding away becomes less and less easy: her new friends urgently need her help and there's a mystery that needs solving, all before they reach New York . . .With gor

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Book Synopsis52 weeks of uplifting devotions and prayers for girls ages 10−12The preteen years can be complicated, and this conversational devotional helps girls find their voice and inner strength through God?s love and light. Brittany Rust, an experienced Bible teacher with a passion for helping teens know God and His Word, discusses and interprets Scripture in a way that makes it easy for kids to understand and speaks to everyday preteen concerns, like friends and cliques, self-esteem, privacy, social media, and crushes. Preteen Devotional for Girls features: ? 52 weekly devotions organized by themes like ?Relationships,? ?Faith,? and ?Feelings and Identity? provide discussions of Scripture and how God?s word can help find solutions and security? Friendly, encouraging tone strikes the perfect balance of wise, supportive mentorship and relatability ? Open-ended prompts are thought-provoking and encourage preteens to trust God and themselves ? A path to regular practice of Bible study and prayer is carved out through one devotion per week, easing tweens into a natural interest and desire for study and reflection ? The full-color pages and fun design create an interactive experience and boost creativity and self-expression

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Book SynopsisNicki's got a great sense of humor, and when she jokes about swapping murders, Kim plays along—that is, until Kim’s ex-boyfriend mysteriously dies.Blackmailed by Nicki to fulfill her end of the deal, Kim will have to commit a murder or take the fall for one.Trade Review"This modern-day teen twist on the Patricia Highsmith's classic Strangers on a Train is perfect for thriller fans." –Booklist "This contemporary thriller will draw young readers in immediately." –School Library Journal "Twists and turns and lots of ratcheted-up tension drive [this] story...An intriguing thriller." –Kirkus "[T]aut suspense, surprising twists, a trip through London, and a truly sinister villain keep pages turning." –Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books —

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Book SynopsisThe third book in the thrilling, magical, and action-packed fantasy series, Dragon Storm, illustrated throughout and perfect for 7 - 9 year olds!In the land of Draconis, there are no dragons.Once, there were. Once, humans and dragons were friends, and created the great city of Rivven together.But then came the Dragon Storm, and the dragons retreated from the world of humans.To the men and women of Draconis, they became legends and myth.It's the Maze Festival in the city of Rivven, and young dragonseer Ellis and his dragon Pathseeker are determined to be the first to complete the three mazes in the grounds of the king's palace and win this year's tournament.But after they discover someone secretly using dangerous dragon magic, Ellis and Pathseeker face a far greater challenge - and it will take all of their skills and courage to find their way back home, and keep the existence of the dragons a secret from the king. An exciting new fantasy series from the highly acclaimed author of Orion Lost, brilliantly illustrated throughout, and perfect for fans of Beast Quest and How to Train Your Dragon.

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Book SynopsisFrom the critically acclaimed author of Pet and The Death of Vivek Oji, Bitter, takes a timely and provocative look at the power of youth, protest and art.Bitter is thrilled to have been chosen to attend Eucalyptus, a special school where she can focus on her painting surrounded by other creative teens. But outside this haven, the streets are filled with protests against the deep injustices that grip the town of Lucille.Bitter's instinct is to stay safe within the walls of Eucalyptus . . . but her friends aren't willing to settle for a world that the adults say is 'just the way things are.' Pulled between old friendships, her creative passion, and a new romance, Bitter isn't sure where she belongs - in the art studio or in the streets. And if she does find a way to help the revolution while being true to who she is, she must also ask: at what cost?

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Book SynopsisA MAGNIFICENTLY HILARIOUS MASTERPIECE OF MONSTER PROPORTIONS.I HOWLED WITH LAUGHTER!, JENNY PEARSON, THE SUPER MIRACULOUS JOURNEY OF FREDDIE YATESA monstrously funny new adventure series. Readers of 8+ and fans of Mega Monster and Shrek will adore the first in the brand new fantasy series from Irish debut author, Ian MarkEvery hero has to start somewhere . . .Monster Hunting isn't as easy as it looks. And Jack should know. Because an ogre has just appeared in his garden and tried to EAT HIS AUNT. (She was the winner of the World's Worst Aunt competition, but that's Not The Point).After (sort of accidentally) defeating the ogre, Jack finds himself apprenticed to a grumpy, 200-year-old monster hunter called Stoop and heading off to Cornwall, where more ogres are causing havoc.All he has are his wits, his catapult and a magical sometimes unreliable book called Monster Hunting for Beginners.Jack's a bit worried he might not be the hero everyone's waiting for. But then again, how many terrifying, bloodthirsty monsters can there really be?(Answer: ABSOLUTELY LOADS. And a bear called Humbert).A hilarious and accessible story, packed full of illustrations that gives a twist to all your favourite fairytales and will change everything you thought you knew about monsters! Perfect for apprentice monster hunters aged 8 to 800.Trade Review‘A monstrously funny new voice,’ Maz Evans, bestselling author of Who Let the Gods Out ‘A funny, fast-paced tale for young adventurers, with gags sharper than a dragon's front teeth,’ David Solomons, award-winning author of My Brother is a Superhero ‘Monster Hunting for Beginners is the best kind of children's book: funny, fast paced and bursting with adventure. The brilliant pictures match the story perfectly. Children are going to gobble this book up!’ Jenny McLachlan, bestselling author of The Land of Roar “This fantastical debut sparkles with energy and a melange of mayhem-making monsters.” Love Reading 4 Kids

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Book SynopsisFrom bestselling author and winner of the Blue Peter Book Award, this is the sixth adventure set in the world of Podkin One-Ear.'Why are you worried? You have us beside you! We've captured three spirits already. We've beaten Endwatchers, two clans, snakes, plagues and a whole ocean of disgusting maggots.'After capturing Charice, there is only one spirit left for Uki to find: Mortix, the most dangerous of all. With his friends Jori, Cole and Kree, Uki heads to Eisenfell - the greatest city in Hulstland - only to find that Mortix has taken control of Emperor Ash and is plotting to conquer the whole Five Realms with her terrifying army.Uki must dodge the Endwatch, the Shrikes, Clan Septys and the guards and find a way to complete his quest before all is lost.'Storytelling perfection.' Sophie Anderson'Pure magic.' Abi Elphinstone'Superb.' Max Porter'A spellbinding storyTrade Review'Storytelling perfection.' - Sophie Anderson'Pure magic.' - Abi Elphinstone

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Book SynopsisBig Cat Phonics for Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised has been developed in collaboration with Wandle Learning Trust and Little Sutton Primary School. It comprises classroom resources to support the SSP programme and a range of phonic readers that together provide a consistent and highly effective approach to teaching phonics.Have you ever been to a farm? Get ready to meet a playful group of animal friends at the barn and see all the fun and mischief they get up to in this story.

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Book SynopsisThe squad you love is out of time. Prepare for the thrilling finale in the epic, bestselling Aurora Cycle series about a band of unlikely heroes who just might be the galaxy's last hope for survival.Trade ReviewPraise for the series: 'A beyond epic space adventure that will make a sci-fi fan out of anyone.' Alexandra Christo, author of To Kill a Kingdom and Into the Crooked Place 'A fusion of everything you love about the genre that adds up into something completely fresh.’ Samantha Shannon 'Brace yourself. You're about to be immersed in a mindscape that you'll never want to leave.' Marie Lu, author of Legend

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Book Synopsis*Featured in BookTrust’s Great Books Guide 2023*From award-winning children’s poet Joseph Coelho comes this enchanting story of three kids looking for adventure in their tower block. Drawn from Coelho’s own experience growing up in a tower block, this is a celebration and reclaiming of them as places full of power and magic.A power that resides in the smiles of our neighbours. A magic that seeps out when we swap our home-baked flavours. A deeply personal story written by the award-winning poet Joseph Coelho, drawn from his own experience growing up in a tower block and looking for adventure. Three children living in the tower block travel to a strange, magical world inside a tree and meet an old man with supernatural powers… only to realise that the magic they’d been looking for had been in the tower block all that time, in Trade Review"Coelho draws on his own experience growing up in a tower block on the edge of Richmond Park in London in this title." * The Bookseller *"Coelho drew upon his own experiences to tell this story about three children who leave their tower block and tumble into a strange world underneath a tree. There, a “tree-grown man” helps them understand the power of nature and, when they resurface, their tower block is transformed into a place of colour and light. Gorgeously illustrated by Johnson, this modern-day fable is a celebration of high-rise living and its ties to the ancient, natural world" * The Bookseller *Fresh to the post of children’s laureate, Joseph Coelho is releasing Our Tower […] Coelho, who was inspired by his experience growing up in London, has said “I wanted to bring the magic of Narnia to the tower block” — which seems the perfect mission statement […] books can’t fill tummies but they can provide hope and escape. * The Guardian *‘The new children’s laureate has written a poem about living in a tower block and a magical journey into the forest to rediscover our connection to nature. Richard Johnson’s gentle illustrations capture the magic in this picture book for older children.’ * The Sunday Times *“Gorgeously illustrated by Richard Johnson, this picture book is a love letter to high-rise living and its connection to the ancient, natural world.” * The Sunday Post *“The new Children’s Laureate draws on his own experiences for this fantastical nature-based fable which encourages three children to see their tower block home in a new light.” * i-newspaper *‘Fresh to the post of children’s laureate, Joseph Coelho is releasing Our Tower […] Coelho, who was inspired by his experience growing up in London, has said “I wanted to bring the magic of Narnia to the tower block” — which seems the perfect mission statement […] books can’t fill tummies but they can provide hope and escape’ * The Observer *“This glowing, poetic picture book from the new children’s laureate celebrates the joys of community in urban spaces while quietly affirming that the natural world belongs to everyone.” * The Guardian *“Our Tower celebrates the joys of community in urban spaces while quietly affirming that the natural world belongs to everyone”. * The Guardian *

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Book Synopsis_______________''I adored not-at-all normal Neon and her madcap adventure'' - Joanna Nadin, author of The Worst Class in the World series''Fun, funny, magical and fizzing with imagination'' - Sophie Anderson, author of The House with Chicken Legs_______________Get ready to discover the real story behind unicorns in the first in a brilliant new series from Sibéal Pounder, bestselling author of the Witch Wars and Bad Mermaids seriesUnicorns are NOT horse creatures with horns.In fact, they are the most powerful magical beings on the planet and they look just like you and me. They live in a secret realm known as the Universe, and the horse with a horn thing was just something a unicorn called Greg made up to distract the humans and it really worked!But a young human girl called Neon Gallup is about to find the last remaining Universe portal opener (an old, battered green lipstick) and step into a zany world whereTrade ReviewThe inside of Sibéal Pounder’s head must be a spectacular place! Full of colour and glitter and goo – and a bonkersly brilliant imagination! * Lesley Parr, author of The Valley of Lost Secrets and When the War Came Home *I adored not-at-all normal Neon and her madcap adventure * Joanna Nadin, author of The Worst Class in the World series *Neon’s Secret Universe is exactly what the world needs right now; a glorious, galloping, life-affirming stampede of pure multi-coloured joy [...] Each and every page is a riot of stupendous silliness and breath-taking imagination. I want to go on holiday inside Sibeal Pounder’s head * Chris Smith, author of Kid Normal, The Great Dream Robbery and Frankie Best Hates Quests *Sibéal Pounder’s books are the most fought over in our house. They’ve brought so much joy and laughter and Neon’s Secret UNIverse is no exception. Fun, funny, magical and fizzing with imagination, my children and I have been pinching it off each other since it landed! * Sophie Anderson, author of The House with Chicken Legs *Bright, bubbly and never knowingly normal, Neon’s Secret Universe is a whirlwind of witty wonderful adventure! * Mo O’Hara, author of My Big Fat Zombie Goldfish and Agent Moose *Neon's Secret Universe fizzes and pops with joyful hilarity. I laughed so much as I read it - and it made me want to become (the real kind of) unicorn! * Stephanie Burgis, author of The Dragon with a Chocolate Heart and The Raven Heir *Very sparkly storytelling and a lovely portrayal of friendship * Hilary McKay on TINSEL *This the most fun I’ve had reading a book in quite a while – the most inventive, crazy, yet hilarious read * Minerva Reads on WITCH WARS *Fizzing with fun * Daily Mail on WITCH TRICKS *You'll laugh your tail off – another winner from our favourite author * Rob Biddulph on BAD MERMAIDS *[An] imaginative adventure that's as silly as it is magical * i *Zany, funny and irrepressibly bright * BookTrust *

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Book SynopsisFather Mouse and Mother MOuse always want the best for their daughter, including the best possible husband... but Father Mouse has some rather grand and impractical ideas. Will Molly Mouse end up with the husband she really wants?With fun activities after the story, and online audio in both British English and American English. CEFR level: low A1. 300 headwords, 598 words.

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Book SynopsisFrom Gary Paulsen, the bestselling and much-loved author of Hatchet, comes another high-stakes survival story about a young boy on the knife-edge between life and death, where the raging seas meet a coastal wilderness.When a deadly plague reaches the small fish camp where he lives, an orphan named Leif is forced to take to the water in a cedar canoe. He flees northward, following a wild, fjord-riven shore, thrown from one danger to the next, unsure of his destination. Yet the deeper into his journey he paddles, the closer Leif comes to his truest self as he connects to the heartbeat of the ocean, the pulse of the sea.A stunning historical adventure with hints of Nordic mythology and an irresistible narrative pull, Northwind is Gary Paulsen at his captivating, adventuresome best.Trade ReviewGary Paulsen’s final novel, ‘Northwind’ — a tale of survival as masterfully understated as the man himself — brings the author’s career, and his life, full circle . . . Paulsen, who died in October, was not only a master storyteller, but also a master world-builder. Leif’s trip north is ‘a movement through worlds.’ And although these worlds are earthly ones, they’re as fresh and surprising as distant stars. * The New York Times *A voyage both singular and universal, marked by sharply felt risks and rewards and deep waters beneath. -- Kirkus, starred reviewPaulsen once again demonstrates his extraordinary knowledge of nature and the outdoors . . . Beautifully written, it’s classic Paulsen at his best. * Booklist, starred review *Spare, survival-oriented prose keeps the reader immersed in scenes difficult and wondrous, offering a glimpse of the sheer awesomeness of nature, showcasing the beauty of the sea and its inhabitants, and regaling readers with a timeless and irresistible adventure that has resilience at its heart. * Publishers Weekly, starred review *This is is an absolute masterpiece. Nobody writes about survival like him. If I were teaching about Vikings this would straight away be the book I’d use. Fantastic description and connection with nature. -- Simon Smith, Headteacher * https://twitter.com/smithsmm/status/1514318619546636292?s=11&t=a7-pHJFhy8C_DuTyqQMkUw *

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Book SynopsisMystery-lover Libby is excited but nervous when she's sent to live with her aunt while her mother is working abroad. Aunt Agatha is the headmistress of an extraordinary travelling school that moves from country to country. Libby joins it in Paris, where she is just starting to find her feet when her aunt is arrested, accused of a daring jewel robbery. Can Libby and her new best friend Connie find the real thief and save her aunt? Illustrated by Becka Moor.

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Book SynopsisThe Last Bear meets The Life of Pi in this adventure-filled survival story set on a lush Cambodian island! Meet 12-year-old Lark, who finds herself ship-wrecked with no one but a baby gibbon for company. Can she survive storms, lack of food and jelly-fish infested waters and find her way home?'If you're reading this, hopefully you've come to rescue me. My name is Lark Taylor, and I've been shipwrecked on an island. The last mainland I was on was Cambodia, miles and miles away from home...'When Lark's mum takes her family with her on a research trip to Cambodia, Lark never expects that she'll end up stranded on a deserted island! But that's exactly what happens when her boat is shipwrecked.With her only companion a baby gibbon, Lark faces many dangers - brutal storms, scorching sunshine and jellyfish-infested waters. And with dwindling food and water, she must make a plan to find her way off the island before it's too late...Formatted as Lark's diary with lined journal pages, gorgeous design details and a special map of Gibbon Island by Rob Biddulph, this is a gorgeous survival story that will have you on the edge of your seat.Trade Review"...a gorgeous survival story that will have you on the edge of your seat." * Scotland4Kids *"A fast-paced, page turner of a book... Five stars from us." * Mini Travellers *

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Book SynopsisEver since Gafferty Sprout’s last adventure, she’s been VERY GOOD. No more finding lost Smidgen clans, no more pudding fights, definitely no more GHOSTS. She knows there’s another clan still out there – The Burrow – and maybe they know the secrets of the MAGICAL knife that saved her from the ghosts. But it’ll have to wait until she’s less … grounded. Then a strange Smidgen steals her knife and sets out for The Burrow, and there’s nothing for it. Gafferty has to follow. But the Smidgens of The Burrow aren’t the new friends Gafferty expected, and soon the Smidgens are in BIG, BIG trouble. The second book in a funny, magical adventure series for 7+ readers who love Terry Pratchett, Max and the Millions and The Borrowers.Trade ReviewIf you put your copy of Harry Potter and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory in the washing machine together, this would be the book that came out at the end. Don’t put books in the washing machine though … * Tom Fletcher on THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY GHOST *Humour pervades every page, with jokes appearing at the perfect place and with fabulous timing * Bookbag on THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY GHOST *A thoroughly satisfying and entertaining story, a mix of adventure, comedy and magic … Delicious! * Books for Keeps on THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY GHOST *

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Book SynopsisJoin the lemurs as they clamber through the pages of this sensory adventure in That's not my lemur... from the UK's favourite touch-and-feel baby book series, That's not my... by Fiona Watt. Babies and toddlers will love touching the fuzzy, furry, smooth and soft fabric patches on each page. That's not my... books are designed to be shared, and develop sensory and language development. Don't forget to spot the little white mouse as they explore this sturdy board book, perfect for little hands. DID YOU KNOW...? One That's not my... book is sold every minute in the UK! With over 60 titles to choose from, there's a That's not my... book for everyone.

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Book SynopsisThe 9th instalment in the hugely successful Villains Tales series, based on Disney's most infamous pirate, Captain Hook, tells the story of young James Bartholomew, the Lost Boy who never was.

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Book SynopsisA retelling of the counting rhyme which has also been specially extended. Young readers can have fun counting speckled frogs as they hop in and out of their cool pool. A QR code on the back cover provides a link to an audio recording of the rhyme.

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Book SynopsisVioleta must find a way to keep Chupie hidden and convince her newfound friends that he isn’t anything to be scared of.And if that isn’t hard enough, a new threat lurks around the corner that is dead set on capturing Chupie for their own nefarious means.Trade Review“Beware: cutest Chupacabra ever!" — Sophie Escabasse, creator of the bestselling Witches of Brooklyn series “Everyone needs a Chupie in their life!” — Kat Fajardo, creator of Miss Quinces “What’s better than a summer vacation with new friends and a mythical beast? Saving Chupie has them both and more.” — Tim Probert, creator of the Lightfall series "Expressive, colorful, and full of heart-- perfect for a young animal enthusiast looking for adventure." — Wendy Xu, author of Tidesong "I’m a sucker for coming-of-age stories mixed with a kid and a secret monster. Saving Chupie is like E.T. in Puerto Rico." — Yehudi Mercado, author of Chunky Goes to Camp "Saving Chupie is as heartwarming as it is hilarious, standing out in a crowded graphic novel space with a unique voice, stunning art, and unforgettable characters." — George Jreije, author of Shad Hadid and the Alchemists of Alexandria

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Book SynopsisWhen Sir Charles Baskerville dies in mysterious circumstances, the world's greatest detective is called in to investigate. Sherlock Holmes must use all his powers of deduction if he is to solve the blood-curdling mystery of the terrifying Hound of the Baskervilles.

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Book Synopsis A glorious boarding school adventure set in Nigeria - a story of friendship, empathy and fighting for what you believe in. 'What a joyful, vibrant story! A book for the heart' EFUA TRAORE, author of Children of the Quicksands Jummy has won a place at the River School, the finest girls' boarding school in Nigeria. Nothing can dampen her spirits, not even when she learns that her best friend Caro won’t be joining her. By the Shine-Shine River, school is everything Jummy dreamt of, with friendly new girls, midnight feasts and sporting prizes - but when Caro suddenly arrives at the school to work, not to learn, Jummy must bring all her friends together to help. From a fantastic new talent in middle-grade contemporary fiction, Sabine Adeyinka, based on her own experience of attending boarding school in Nigeria A joyful, glorious collision of classic boarding-school story with vibrant 1990s Nigeria Irrepressible Jummy investigates an intriguing mystery as her best friend from home turns up at the school

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Book SynopsisHom is the last of his kind. I don’t know what kind of creature he is, and nobody knows he exists... apart from me. When a boy washes up on a desert island after a shipwreck, he is sure he’s all alone in the world. But he soon discovers there’s someone else living there: Hom, a peace-loving creature who has lost his family, too. Alone on the island together, they learn from each other and become the best of friends. So when a rescue ship appears on the horizon, the boy has a big decision to make...Trade Review"Jeanne Willis is one of our funniest writers for children, but she can do poignancy and tenderness with equal skill... Illustrator Paddy Donnelly creates a wonderfully lush and vibrant desert island, and his characters are equally warm and alive" -- Andrea Reece * Lovereading *"Jeanne Willis is a writer who can assume different voices like wearing different hats... The theme of how society treats outsiders that loom different and come from different places will resonate... A lovely story for reading with children from 3 upwards. There is plenty of scope for book-based projects in infant classes and potentially the themes can be explored with children in the lower junior classes too" -- Nikki Gamble * Just Imagine *"Hom will stay with you long after reading his wonderful story... This book has children hooked but is also a very deep book with lots of extremely important messages about the way society treats outsiders" * Nourished by Books *"A gorgeously thoughtful tale of high adventure that will find a place in many hearts, HOM creates a whole new world of fun and reflection" * Books for Keeps *"A beautiful story of a friendship that crosses language and prejudice" * The Bookseller *

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Book Synopsis.'When Ivy's search for her mother draws her to a remote Welsh isle, she uncovers a dark secret about her past. An ancient and corrupt power is stalking Ivy, and her only chance of survival is to look deep within herself.Trade ReviewA crackingly atmospheric read blending mystery, horror and Arthurian myth into a spellbinding tale. -- Gina Blaxill, author of You Can Trust MeWaking the Witch honestly feels like Rachel Burge reached into my head and found the things I wanted to read. Maybe I'm used to Arthurian retellings that more often explore the Knights and King Arthur, so I was pleasantly surprised that this explored the women's side of the story. -- Bryony, The Indecisive Readers * Instagram *Wow. Just wow. Absolutely fantastic read from start to finish. On my top Author list - can literally not fault the writing or the story one bit. -- Katie, ReadersroostUnusually strange, very descriptive, and entertaining. -- Shelley Bleese * NetGalley *This was full of magic, mystery and folklore...I could not put it down and have gone straight to pre-order a physical copy so I can re-read it again and again. The characters and their development were outstanding, and I can't wait to read more by Rachel - one question - will there be a sequel???? -- Ella Jones * NetGalley *Wow, wow, wow! Gripping from the first chapter, this book was absolutely page turning and my new favourite! It had everything I love, witches, magick, Avalon, Merlin and so much more. What a twist on Merlin. I loved it. A great read that shows the true power of what love can do! -- Melissa Stanton * NetGalley *I sped through this book wanting to know what happened next - always a sign of a good book! I thoroughly recommend this book for its re-imagining of the Arthurian legend in a modern setting. -- Jenny Gill * NetGalley *I enjoy a good YA book with a strong main character and this certainly ticked those boxes...The mythology and legend within this book are brilliant. -- Georgina Candy * NetGalley *

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Book Synopsis From the Waterstones Prize-shortlisted author of Our Castle by the Sea comes a gorgeously gothic story, perfect for fans of Emma Carroll and Frances Hardinge ... 'My book of the year. This is storytelling so secure and shining that you can almost feel the glow.' HILARY MCKAY, COSTA BOOK AWARD-WINNING AUTHOR OF THE SKYLARK'S WAR 'I absolutely love this book ... Lucy Strange is a wonderful, accomplished writer whose books stay with you long after you have finished reading.' NATASHA FARRANT, COSTA BOOK AWARD-WINNING AUTHOR OF VOYAGE OF THE SPARROWHAWK 'One of my favourite children's books of all time.' MICHELLE HARRISON, AUTHOR OF A PINCH OF MAGIC Life is hard for Willa, Grace and Freya, and their three younger sisters. Six motherless girls working a farm, living in fear of their cruel father and the superstition that obsesses him - The Curse of Six Daughters. With the arrival of the mysterious Full Moon Fayre, there's a chance for the eldest girls to steal a moment's fun, but the day the fayre moves on, Grace vanishes. Willa goes after her, following a trail that leads into the dangerous Lost Marsh, where it is said a will-o'-the-wisp lures lost souls into the dark waters of the mire. If Willa is to survive and reunite her family, she will need to unravel the secrets her father has kept hidden, and face her own deepest fears ... The spellbinding new novel from Lucy Strange, author of The Secret of Nightingale Wood, The Ghost of Gosswater and the Waterstones Prize-shortlisted Our Castle by the Sea Perfect for fans of Emma Carroll, Frances Hardinge and Sophie Anderson Combines dreamy magical realism with a thrilling mystery MORE PRAISE FOR SISTERS OF THE LOST MARSH: 'The makings of a middle-grade Gothic classic' THE SUNDAY TIMES 'Spellbinding and utterly atmospheric' THE I 'Not only is the writing beautiful, but the book is a work of art' IRISH EXAMINER 'Beautifully written, mysterious and atmospheric ... perfect autumn reading' KATHERINE WOODFINE

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Book Synopsis'Megan Whalen Turner is one of my all-time favorite writers . . . impossible to put down' Holly Black, New York Times bestselling author of The Cruel PrinceSophos, the unwilling prince of Sounis, has disappeared without a trace. Eugenides has never stopped wondering what happened to his friend. Nor has the queen of Eddis, who once offered Sophos her hand. As time goes by, it becomes less and less certain that they will ever see their friend again.Across the small peninsula battles are fought, bribes are offered, and conspiracies are set in motion. Darkening the horizon, the Mede Empire threatens from across the sea.And Sophos, anonymous and alone, bides his time. Drawing on his memories of Gen, Pol, the Magus and Eddis, he sets out on an adventure that will change all of their lives forever . . .Praise for Megan Whalen Turner'The Queen's Thief books awe and inspire me' Laini Taylor, New York Times bestselling author of the Daughter of Smoke and Bone novels and Strange the Dreamer'Megan Whalen Turner writes vivid, immersive, heartbreaking fantasy' Leigh Bardugo, New York Times bestselling author of Six of Crows and Crooked Kingdom'Endlessly entertaining, deeply deceptive, and very, very clever' Garth Nix, New York Times bestselling and award-winning author of the Old Kingdom, Keys to the Kingdom, and Seventh Tower series'Romance, intrigue, mystery, surprises, and sheer beautiful writing' Cassandra Clare, award-winning and New York Times bestselling author of The Mortal Instruments and Lady Midnight'The world Turner creates is so tangible that not only do I believe in its characters, I almost believe in its gods' Kristin Cashore, award-winning and New York Times bestselling author of the Graceling Realm series

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Book SynopsisWhen Herbie and Violet's arch-enemy Sebastian Eels turns up in Eerie-on-Sea, seemingly back from the dead, it can only spell bad news. The town may welcome his entrepreneurial scheme to resurrect Festergrimm's Waxworks, a dusty and defunct old gallery of spooky characters from Eerie legend, but Herbie and Violet are suspicious of his motives. And when they learn the legend of Ludo Festergrimm the clockmaker, creator of a vast mechanical robot that wrought havoc in the wrong hands, they KNOW they're on the right track. But how can they get the residents of Eerie-on-Sea to believe them?Trade ReviewTaylor's magical touch makes you believe the impossible. -- Catherine DoyleThis is a fantastic and legendary series bringing Eerie on Sea’s best legends to life and keeping the reader completely enthralled and engaged! The series goes from strength to strength and I cannot wait for Mermedusa! * myshelvesarefull.com *This fantastically realised setting and the charm of Herbie, Violet and the other characters that inhabit it always draw me in as a reader and always leave me wanting more. Festergrimm is no exception. The new location is granted to spook adults and children alike, the threat feels real, the villain is perfect (chilling, clever and steeped in arrogance) and the story moves at a brisk, exhilarating pace. This is a brilliant series of books for children aged 9 and above to read independently or to be read aloud. I can’t wait for the next one! * Always Stepping Into the Page *[...]A must-read for fans of the books so far and perfect for readers aged nine to ninety-nine, if you have not as yet read Malamander you need to rectify that situation immediately. -- Jacqui * NetGalley *Everything’s we’ve come to love and look forward to in the Eerie-on-Sea adventures is packed in the pages and will delight its fans young and old. It’s a fast paced adventure, full of some wonderful twists and turns and some great edge of the seat moments. -- Debbie * NetGalley *

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Book SynopsisPádraig Kenny's The Shadows of Rookhaven is a story about family and forgiveness, the sequel to The Monsters of Rookhaven.Shadows are gathering over Rookhaven.It is the time of The Great Configuration, a once in a hundred years event. Family and monsters descend on Rookhaven from all over the country to take part. But amid the guests there is an interloper. One who is disguised and has an eye on their destruction.Meanwhile Mirabelle – part human, part monster – discovers that to those from outside Rookhaven she is not considered family at all . . . and, forced to search further afield for knowledge of her true history, she risks everything – and everyone.Praise for The Monsters of Rookhaven:'A stunning book . . . a brand new take on the monster story' – Eoin Colfer, author of Artemis Fowl'A magnificent, shadowy, gothic adventure full of heart' – Emma Carroll, author of Frost Hollow Hall'A wildly imaginative story . . . a triumph' – Irish ExaminerTrade ReviewOne of the most startlingly original children’s books I’ve read in years. It feels like Pádraig Kenny, with Edward Bettison's mesmerizing illustrations, has created a whole new genre -- Piers Torday, on The Monsters of RookhavenA sequel to The Monsters of Rookhaven, this new Gothic dark-fantasy adventure doesn’t disappoint. -- Sarah Webb * The Irish Independent *

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Book SynopsisFour fantastic new stories about everyone’s favourite twins. There’s always double trouble when these two are about, so get ready for more mayhem as they look after the school hamster for half term, have a competition to build the best snowman, raise money with a yard sale, and have a rollercoaster of a time at the local theme park! 'Warm-hearted, touching stories, full of fun but with a subtle message' Jacqueline WilsonTrade Review"an entertaining collection... full of humour and heart" * BookTrust *

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Book SynopsisMalorie Blackman’s hilarious tale of shape-shifting and babysitting antics – now in a standard paperback format for middle-grade readers. Malorie Blackman’s hilarious tale of shape-shifting and babysitting antics – now in a standard paperback format for middle-grade readers. Mike had no idea that his best friend Alex was a Gris-kwok – someone who can turn into any animal he chooses! But Mike’s naughty little sister Molly is a Gris-kwok too. Alex and Mike are about to take on the worst babysitting job in the world!

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