Children & Teen Fiction Books

Book SynopsisWhat's up with the weird gang at school? One student's about to find out. Sam's always been a little scared of gorgeous Lisa's gang, but when she invites him to come and hang out with them he's delighted. But soon he finds out that they have a dark secret …and that he will have to go through some big changes to join them. Supernatural thriller.

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Book SynopsisA timeless collection of over twenty of Aesop's best-loved fables, including favourites such as The Hare and the Tortoise, Town Mouse and Country Mouse, Dog in the Manger and The Lion and the Mouse. The tales are retold with warmth and humour by former Children's Laureate Michael Morpurgo and brought to life by Emma Chichester Clark's exquisitely playful and distinctive artwork.Trade ReviewA timeless anthology... told with warmth and humour and complemented by playful and distinctive artwork. An essential addition to any child's library. * Junior News & Mail *An up-to-date voice and lots of cheerful illustrations * The List *Morpurgo's rhthymic, very accessible language and Chichester Clark's amusing and lively artwork combine perfectly to make this book an absolute joy to read alone and as a group ... These are stories for the Literacy Strategy and beyond. * Junior Education *

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Book SynopsisThe Everyman edition reprints the classic black and white illustrations of C. Walter Hodges which accompanied the first edition in 1954.Around the year 117 AD, the Ninth Legion, stationed at Eburacum - modern day York - marched north to suppress a rebellion of the Caledonian tribes, and was never heard of again. During the 1860s, a wingless Roman Eagle was discovered during excavations at the village of Silchester in Hampshire, puzzling archaeologists and scholars alike. Rosemary Sutcliff weaves a compelling story from these two mysteries, dispatching her hero, the young Roman officer Marcus Aquila, on a perilous journey beyond Hadrian's Wall to find out what happened to the discredited legion in which his father served, and to salvage, if he can, its Eagle and its honour.All the essential elements of a classic adventure are here - the daring quest, the uncovering of the secrets of the past, and a nerve-racking escape across the mountains, pursued by vengeful tribesmen. But it is the human element which triumphs, and one of the most memorable scenes in the book is Marcus appealing to a crowd baying for blood to save a young British gladiator from certain death during the Saturnalia Games. Proud son of a Brigantian chieftain, Esca becomes his slave, then his freedman, and the indispensable companion of his travels. The Eagle of the Ninth is partly the story of their growing friendship, crossing the divide created by conquest and colonialism; and partly Marcus's journey of self-discovery as he learns of his father's fate and comes to terms with the end of his own military career. At the end he embraces a different, more hopeful future - not in Rome but 'under the pale and changeful northern skies' - acquiring a farm in the Downs, and marrying the girl next door.The Eagle of the Ninth has all its author's hallmark qualities - a mature and complex story, a wealth of historical detail, cultural sensitivity, wit and compassion. Above all, Sutcliff is able to conjure up the atmosphere of a distant age in a totally convincing way. It is hardly surprising that her work would set the standard for all historical fiction to come.Trade ReviewThose books are colossal. They are fantastic. -- David Mitchell on The Eagle of the Ninth trilogyI found myself caught up in [The Eagle of the Ninth] all over again, when the film version appeared in 2011. Fifty years on, I found its you-were-there deciption of Roman Britain and gripping plot as beguiling as ever... Re-reading Sutcliff, I realise just how un-condescending to younger readers her style and vocabulary are ... More important, the bok taught the younger me about friendship, courage and integrity. Sutcliff's heroes are models of how to be good people, but never priggish or unbelievable... -- Sally Hawkins * The Sunday Times *Decades later, I can still hear echoes of The Eagle of the Ninth in my head: the chink of mail, the tired beat of the legionaries' feet. * The Independent *These tales of Roman Britain have yet to be surpassed for their non-patronising prose and adult dangers. Sutcliff makes Classics and archaeology uniquely thrilling for children. -- Amanda Craig * The Times *

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Book SynopsisPrincess Ava and Pugicorn can''t wait for their town''s winter festival! But then a mysterious egg arrives at The Magic Pet Shop, and it''s up to them to look after it while they join in on the frosty fun.When the egg suddenly hatches, they''ll have to go on a snowy adventure to find this magic pet a new home. Will they find the perfect, jolly friend for this pet? PUGICORN''S SNOWY SECRET is the next book in the enchanting new series from the creators of the Pugicorn picture books. With accessible text and adorable illustrations throughout, this is perfect for newly independent and developing readers.

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Aria, Emily, Spencer, Hanna and Alison have been best friends since the third grade. They go everywhere together, thinking no-one can come between them. If anyone is the ringleader of the group it is Alison, and the other girls cannot help but confide all their secrets to her.One night, during a sleepover, Alison goes missing. Her body is never found. The girls mourn her death but move apart after time, assuming their secrets have disappeared with Alison too.Three years later and Aria is having an affair with her teacher; Emily is questioning her sexuality; Hanna is a thief; and Spencer is flirting with her sister's fiance. They all think their secrets are safe, until they starting receiving messages from the mysterious A - who knows exactly what they are all up to, and is threatening to spill the beans . . .

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Book SynopsisBound to serve a cruel master, Nant''s curiosity never fails to get her into trouble. Some questions she has learned it is best not to ask, but every autumn the silver eels return and so do her questions. Where do they come from? And where do they go? One in a series of illustrated contemporary folk tales by Nicola Davies.

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Book SynopsisImagine rescuing a lion cub . . . After Martine saves an orphaned lion cub from a market, she dreams of keeping it at Sawubona forever. Then she learns that Tau, the cub, already has a home. He''s been stolen from one of South Africa''s most famous game reserves. When Martine and her best friend Ben are invited to volunteer at Marula Wilderness Lodge to help settle Tau in, they leap at the chance. But behind Marula''s glamorous façade, all is not what it seems. Once Ben and Martine start asking questions, they''re drawn deeper and deeper into the deadliest adventure of their lives.Lauren St John''s White Giraffe series has become internationally beloved. This is the perfect time to discover - or rediscover - this bestselling series.

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Book SynopsisWhen you look in the mirror, who looks back?

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Book SynopsisFleur is used to balancing her two different cultures from her English Mum to her West Indian Nan but when she discovers that she can talk to animals she finds herself in a whole new world! Can her new powers help her take down Celeste 'The Best' the hockey-loving, ankle-smashing new girl, once and for all? Perfect for fans of Maz Evans.

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Book SynopsisThe Own Your Own Pony week with Mum and best friend Ashlin is Natalie's dream holiday. Or it would be, if Mum's boyfriend could just stop interfering.

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Book SynopsisIt's two days before Christmas Eve, the night Papa Red visits, and the young elephants are very excited. They choose a tree to decorate and prepare the presents for Papa Red to collect during the night to take to those who need them. But this year Elmer has a special treat in store for the young elephants, if they can keep quiet and out of sight... This festive story is now available for the first time in a glittery padded board book, perfect for sharing with little ones.Trade Review"Delightful and charming, colourful and entertaining – with a timely reminder of the true meaning of Christmas" * Carousel *"Another classic" * Glasgow Herald *"A festive, glittery treat of a book... This story is a must-have for fans of the beloved patchwork elephant" * Baby London *"Any fan of Elmer will love this book" * What The Redhead Said blog *"A seasonal treat for fans of the patchwork elephant." -- Fiona Noble * The Bookseller *

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Book Synopsis"The princess will fall into a deep, peaceful sleep for one hundred years."When a maleficent fairy curses Princess Aurora, only the power of a good fairy - and true love - can break the spell.

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Book SynopsisA fun rhyming text that brings together two worlds: fairy tales and football!

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Book SynopsisThe fourth book in a hilarious and heartwarming graphic novel series from the creators ofBarb the Brave

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Book SynopsisIn the Hive, a monarchy of tomorrow, a young bodyguard awaits execution. Guilty of being alive when her charge lies dead. But theprisoner, Feldspar, has one defender - royal maverick Nico. Togetherthey have three days to question everything Feldspar knows aboutthe world that raised her to discover who the real murderer is.

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Book SynopsisWhatever you fear, come close my dear You’re tucked in safe for always here And I will never not be near Because of our love umbrella From this award-winning creative duo comes a book about the wonder of ever-present love. A stunning celebration of the joy and comfort that is always with us, wherever we roam in the big, wild world. Who’s under your Love Umbrella?Trade Review‘Captivating neon illustrations add even more charm to this already delightful story. Under the Love Umbrella reminds children that comfort and love is ever-present, even when you are not near your family.’ * Evening Standard *‘Beautifully tender and life-affirming.’ -- Nathan Filer, author of The Shock of the Fall‘A gorgeous book about the transformative power of family love in all its forms. Written in rhyming couplets, it reassures children that they are protected by an ‘umbrella’ of love wherever they go in the world and whatever they encounter … a truly beautiful book.’ * The Sun *‘Achingly relevant … Lovely, really.’ -- Celina Ribeiro * The Guardian *‘The enduring love between parent and child is celebrated in distinctive, vintage-inspired style.’ * The Bookseller *‘Bright, expressive and featuring joyfully diverse illustration throughout, Under the Love Umbrella provides poetic reassurance that whatever happens, children will be protected and loved. Perfect for sharing at bedtime with cuddles.’ * BookTrust *‘A truly charming book little ones will adore.’ * Little London *‘This brightly illustrated picture book is a celebration of the enduring love that surrounds your children, wherever they are in the world. The families we meet represent the wonderful diversity that make our world what it is and show that there is nothing to fear from differences. It is also a reminder to children that love is around them, especially in times of worry or fear. This book is suitable for new parents and babies, as well as for children embarking on big changes and adventures, who may benefit from this lovely reminder of the permanence of love. A beautiful message to share with young children.’ * Lovereading4kids *‘The illustrations are very bright and I like that they embrace a diverse range of families and relationships … I think we should all remember that we have a “love umbrella”.’ * Juno *‘A meditation on parental love in all its forms, brought to life by a joyful neon palette.’ * The Bookseller *‘I love it! I didn’t like anything the best — it’s all good. I like the illustrations. They are cool. I like the page with the umbrella made out of stars.’ -- Benjamin (aged 5) * Anorak *‘Scary shadows, friends that don't share, shyness, moving, and such everyday childhood issues as wet pants, a lost tooth, and a parent's rushing them. No worry can last under a love umbrella … Colpoys’ striking illustrations, which combine an earth palette with day-glo highlights, effectively show love umbrellas both imagined and real.’ * Kirkus Reviews *‘This is a book that has it all — a beautiful message with amazing illustrations ... The basic point of the story is that no matter what, whoever loves you will provide comfort and shelter to help you cope with distressing situations ... The illustrations provided by Allison Colpoys are nothing short of amazing. The background on the pages are mostly black or white and the colours used are vibrant red, orange, gold, and purple — almost to the point of being neon colours. The illustrations are detailed and children will love seeing all the little things hidden in the pages ... It is also a great tool to talk about feelings.’ -- Kristin Guay, Youth Services Book Review‘This sweetly comforting story is recommended for general purchase and well suited to storytime.’ -- Elizabeth Lovsin * Deerfield Public Library *‘A beautiful story of a parent’s love … A truly wonderful book for youngsters facing change and challenges, no matter how big or small.’ -- Louise Weeks * Mum’s Grapevine *‘When life gets hard or scary, there is always room under the love umbrella to feel safe and adored ... [A] sweetly comforting story.’ * School Library Journal *‘With a comforting lilt, Bell narrates a message of unshakable connectedness and belonging… [A]n ageless reminder, tenderly composed.’ * Publishers Weekly *‘A sweet and beautifully illustrated book about love and family.’ * Baby Librarians *‘Contemporary yet classic-feeling illustrations, a simple and resonant message. Charming!’ -- Jessica Peterson White * Bookseller Review, Content Book Store *‘An incredibly uplifting, rhyming story for readers of all ages, to share, enjoy, and return to. We love this book, and the incredible warm, vibrant, celebratory illustrations will fill the hearts of all who open the page. Treat yourself to a little joy.’ * Shropshire Living *

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Book Synopsis'A fun romp for Twilight Fans' â School Library Journal After being raised by the meanest fairies in the history of ever, Bryar Rose is now free to live her own life. For the first time, she's attending West Lake Prep, a regular high school. Well, mostly regular. Some students are actually hidden members of the Magicorum. In other words, they're really wizards, fairies, or shifters. Bry doesn't mind, though. She's thrilled to enjoy all the new experiences of being around normal kids her age, from locker pranks to lunchtime mystery meat. Everything is going along great, except for one thing. Bry's dreams about the pyramids of Egypt have gotten darker and more sinister. Every night, she sees her new man Knox and her best friend Elle in danger. 'Exciting and well-conceived' â Kirkus With no other choice, Bry plans to leave school to explore the pyramids on her own. But her new man Knox discovers the scheme and is having none of it. He wants to stay by her side, no matter

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Book SynopsisThis latest B-Format edition in the wildly popular Twisted Tales series will continue the success of previous editions of A Whole New World, in an adventure that features Aladdin, Jasmine and more from the ever-popular Aladdin

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Book SynopsisAn out-of-this-world middle-grade fiction title which immerses the reader in a page-turning alien adventure.

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Book SynopsisSHORTLISTED FOR THE CARNEGIE MEDAL and the CLIPPA ‘Hoop kings SOAR in kicks with wings. Game so sweet it’s like bee stings.’ It's 1988. Charlie Bell is still mourning his father, and struggling to figure out how he feels for his best (girl) friend, CJ. When he gets into trouble one too many times, he's packed off to stay with his grandparents for the summer. There his cousin Roxie introduces him to a whole new world: basketball. A legend on the courts is born. But can Charlie resist when trouble comes knocking once again? From the New York Times-bestselling author Kwame Alexander, Rebound is a stunning coming-of-age novel in verse about basketball, family and staying true to yourself. A prequel to The Crossover, winner of the Newbery Medal, and follow-up to Booked, highly commended for the CLiPPA prize and nominated for the Carnegie Medal. With comic-book illustrations from award-winning graphic novel artist Dawud Anyabwile.Trade Review"Alexander effortlessly marries rap rhythms with plaintive, passionate and deceptively simple verse" -- Imogen Russell Williams * Guardian *"Designed to appeal to reluctant readers, little prevents the rest of us being caught up by the comic-mad Charlie Bell" -- Kitty Empire * Observer *"Alexander manages to distill huge emotions into punchy poems that leap off the page. Interspersed throughout with vibrant comic strips drawn by Dawud Anyabwile, this is an energetic and dynamic story that is full of heart." * Scotsman *"The poetry grabs you and just won't let you go, everyone must read this book." -- Emily Drabble * Books For Keeps - Books of the Year 2018 *"Interspersed with amazing 'comic-strip' illustrations... The rhythm and pace of this verse novel pulls readers aged 11+ into Charlie's world." * Best New Children's Books Guide, produced by the Publishers' Association and published in the Guardian 2018 *"Rebound is funny, moving and full of great ideas on how to live your life – and almost impossible not to read in one sitting." -- Emily Drabble * BookTrust *"Once again, Alexander has given readers an African-American protagonist to cheer. He is surrounded by a strong supporting cast, especially two brilliant female characters. The novel in verse is enhanced by Anyabwile's art, which reinforces Charlie's love for comics. An eminently satisfying story of family, recovery, and growing into manhood." -- starred review * Kirkus *"The sad, funny poems, dialogues and beautiful snatches of comic-strip illustrations will make readers laugh and cry, sometimes at the same time." * Inis Reading Guide *"The plot, as rich and satisfying as it is, is outdazzled by the brilliance of wordplay and syntax. Librarians who delighted at The Crossover’s popularity will be thrilled with this pitch-perfect follow-up. Alexander is unstoppable, and his fans will be too. Have extra copies at the ready." -- starred review * Booklist *"Alexander’s verse maintains energy and momentum. A strong and satisfying book about grief, love and the power of family" * New York Times *

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Book SynopsisA prince imprisoned a country in peril

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Book SynopsisThe Twitchers have one last mystery to solve – and this time it's a heist! The final unputdownable adventure in the bestselling birdwatching detective series from the internationally acclaimed author of Beetle Boy and Adventures on Trains, wildlife queen M.G. Leonard.On a school trip to the Royal Swan Natural History Museum, Ava finds herself at the centre of a heist: hundreds of invaluable bird of paradise skins from the Alfred Wallace Collection have been stolen! When she discovers a large jet-black feather, she's sure it's a clue, but the police won't listen to her. Slipping away, she takes the case to the Twitchers in an investigation that leads them to the bizarre and sinister world of fly-fishing, and to a mysterious girl with a pet Raven called Caliban and a dangerous ring of thieves and smugglers...Feather is an exciting winter mystery adventure about friendship, bravery and protecting nature, perfect for readers 9+ and for fans of Robin Stevens, Lauren St John and Jenny Pearson. It can be enjoyed as a stand-alone adventure or read as part of The Twitchers series.Praise for The Twitchers:“Leonard knows her audience and the jeopardy comes in flocks ... Find your nest, curl up and enjoy.” The Times, Children's Book of the Week on Twitch"A twist-laden, thriller-like tale of a bird-mad boy, some bullies and an escaped convict hiding in the nearby woods." Observer on Twitch"A skilfully crafted mystery adventure. A clarion call for environmentalists everywhere." Rob Biddulph, LoveReading4Kids on Spark"A twisty crime drama as well as a persuasive story about friendship and nature." Sunday Times on Twitch"Simply genius." BBC Wildlife Magazine on Twitch"Another pacy wonderful adventure steeped in the magic of nature and friendship.” Jasbinder Bilan on Spark“Leonard has crafted an intelligent mystery from unlikely material, with bonus bird facts.” Irish Times on Twitch“A winged masterpiece.” Maz Evans on Twitch“Enthralling from beginning to end, it really touched my young bird-loving heart! Just wonderful!” Dara McAnulty on Twitch“Twitch is an absolute triumph. The perfect blend of mystery and adventure, a winning hero with an eye for ornithological facts and a heart as big as the countryside, plus a cracking whipsmart plot, I think this is M. G. Leonard's best book yet.” Christopher Edge on Twitch“Cracking characters, beyond pacy plotting and an ending that is almost Bugsy Malone-esque!” Phil Earle on TwitchTrade Review"I nestled down to read this and ended up reading 2/3 in one sitting and the rest later the same day, so compelling were the exploits of the fledgling detectives. ‘Feather’ hits the ground running and the pace never lets up… I love the way MG Leonard writes: she respects her young readers allowing so much to be shown and not told. * NetGalley Reviewer *The last installment in the Twitch series is a real treat with a lot of plot twists. The writing is as beautifully done as the previous books in the series. It has a fast-paced beginning that grips you right from the start. * NetGalley Reviewer *This series is so refreshing – championing the environment and inspiring children to go outdoors and explore. There is an incredible level of detail when it comes to descriptions of bird species, the history of famous scientists like Darwin and Wallace, as well as a heart-stopping mystery... True to form, the Queen of Middle Grade Mystery, M.G. Leornard takes readers through all the elements great detectives need to consider: clues, leads, motives, suspects and the very real danger that comes with confronting a criminal. * Scope for Imagination *Inspired by a true crime podcast called 'The Feather Heist', this book gets a wholehearted 5 stars from us and we recommend this, and the other three in the series for children age 9-12. * NetGalley Reviewer *I think this is my favourite book out of the series. * NetGalley Reviewer *

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Book SynopsisJAMES PATTERSON is one of the best-known and biggest-selling writers of all time. Among his creations are some of the world's most popular series including Alex Cross, the Women's Murder Club, Michael Bennett and the Private novels. He has written many other number one bestsellers including collaborations with President Bill Clinton and Dolly Parton, stand-alone thrillers and non-fiction. James has donated millions in grants to independent bookshops and has been the most borrowed adult author in UK libraries for the past fourteen years in a row. He lives in Florida with his family.

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