Children & Teen Fiction Books

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Book SynopsisWhat if Rapunzel''s mother drank from the wrong flower?For as long as she can remember, Rapunzel has stayed in the tower, knowing her silver hair''s intense powers are dangerous, even deadly. But when she is drawn out of the only home she''s ever known, she gets caught up in an exciting quest across the kingdom. And soon Rapunzel learns that there may be more to her story, and her magical tresses, than she ever thought possible ...

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Book SynopsisIn the new Republic of Texas, guns are compulsory and nothing is forgiven. Blue Running is a gripping coming-of-age thriller set in post-secessionist Texas. For fans of Station Eleven and Thelma and Louise. Fourteen-year-old Bluebonnet Andrews is on the run across the Republic of Texas. An accident with a gun killed her best friend but everyone in the town of Blessing thinks it was murder. Even her father - the town's drunken deputy - believes she did it. Now, she has no choice but to run. In Texas, murder is punishable by death. There's no one to help her. Her father is incapable and her mother left the state on the last flight to America before the secession. Blue doesn't know where she is but she's determined to track her down. First she has to get across the lawless Republic and over the wall that keeps everyone in. On the road she meets Jet, a pregnant young woman of Latin American heritage. Jet is secretive about her past but she's just as determined as Blue to get out of Texas before she's caught and arrested. Together, the two form an unlikely kinship as they make their way past marauding motorcycle gangs, the ever watchful Texas Rangers, and armed strangers intent on abducting them - or worse. When Blue and Jet finally reach the wall, will they be able to cross the border, or will they be shot down in cold blood like the thousands who have gone before them? Some things are worth dying for.

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Book SynopsisA raucous, rhyming tale that will have children (and adults) in fits of laughter!Cat is sitting on his favourite mat, when who should come along but Rat with a very nice hat? Cat wants Rat's hat and will stop at NOTHING to get it. But when Bat arrives wearing a fancy cravat, well, what could be better than that? Chaos ensues as both Cat and Rat decide they MUST have Bat's fancy cravat for themselves! From Em Lynas and Matt Hunt comes this hilarious, read-aloud picture book, bursting with comic capers and animal antics.With a hilarious, tongue-twister text, slapstick humour, bright neon artwork and colourful, comic characters.Perfect for fans of Oi Frog!Every Nosy Crow paperback picture book comes with a free 'Stories Aloud' audio recording - just scan the QR code and listen along!

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Book SynopsisA FANG-tastically funny adventures series, perfect for 7+ readers and fans of Amelia Fang!Full of hilarious, highly illustrated mayhem GuardianLoved it. You'll be Kevin's biggest fang! Danny WallaceThe time has come for Kevin's Gloaming.

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Book SynopsisNewborn lambs are in danger: can Lightning rise to the challenge?

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Book SynopsisWhat if you could befriend a cloud? What weather would you choose? What if the weather matched itself to your mood, whether you wanted it to, or not? 11-year-old Stella has returned home to Shetland to spend the summer with her Grandpa, but it's nothing like she remembers. Grandpa is lost in his grief for Gran, the island is bleak and Stella feels trapped, until she encounters an old woman, Tamar, who can spin rainbows and call hurricanes. With the help of Nimbus, a feisty young storm cloud, Stella begins to learn the craft of weather weaving. But when her cloud brain-fogs Grandpa and The Haken (a sea witch) starts to close in, she realises that magic comes with big responsibilities. It will take all her heart and courage to face the coming storm... THE WEATHER WEAVER is essentially a Moana tale for Shetland; a coming of age story, intertwined with island myths and hidden magic. At its heart, the novel tackles the following themes: independence, the meaning of home, and the fallibility of grown-ups.

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Book SynopsisLife isn't easy for Daniel Littleton - Mum's poorly, Dad's always working and his twin sisters drive him up the wall! At school he's the only kid without the latest trainers or Xbox and his mates are starting to notice. Things look up when he gets a starring role in the school play - though if his football-mad mates find out, they'll make his life a misery! But leading a double life is tricky and before long, Daniel's lies start spinning out of control...

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Book SynopsisWhen a vampire kingdom suddenly appears within the borders of Japan, a beautiful boy-meets-vampire romantic comedy blooms! One fateful day, Ryouta wanders into a town that's been declared sovereign territory by the rulers of the night and before he can blink, an adorable vampire pounces him. Now, his only duty in life is to serve her hand and foot as her minion in the hilarious, romance-filled days to come!

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Book SynopsisDuffy's Lucky Escape will transport you to a tropical paradise where Duffy the Sea Turtle lives amongst beautiful coral reefs and colourful fish only for Duffy to learn that not all that floats is food. As time is running out Duffy has a lucky escape when kind people step in to save the day. Duffy's Lucky Escape is based on true events and it is this powerful message which invites children and adults alike to question the impact of ocean plastic on our environment. With ideas and activities which reinforce the story this is a book which will inspire children to make changes to the world around them. There is a huge growing national and international consciousness about the dangers of ocean plastic and it is important to teach children about this devastating global issue without overwhelming them or shocking them. The Wild Tribe Heroes series of books guides young readers through the issues in a gentle and friendly way together with further information to inspire children to make changes to their own and their families lives. Sold over 30,000 books in the series in just 2 years ; No 1 bestselling books ; Personal letters of congratulations from Sir David Attenborough and Prince Charles ; All books are based on true stories which means that children are more connected to the issue. ; Featured in national media - BBC, ITV, Guardian, Huffington Post and Mail on Sunday ; Sold by WH Smiths, Waterstones, National Trust, RNLI, Surfers Against Sewage, #2MinuteBeachClean. ; Stocked by over 250 museums, national libraries, bookshops and gift shops, zero waste and farm shops and major tourist attractions such as The Eden Project and London & Chester Zoos ; Reached over a million children worldwide in schools ; Translated into 15 different languages so farTrade ReviewPraise for the Wild Tribe Heroes series ; "This super story has struck a chord with primary aged children from EYFS to year 6. We used it as a teaching text during our waste week and it has been inspirational and prompted some fantastic learning. A must have for all primary school teachers!"' ; "We are really enjoying having this book as one of our bedtime stories. My son loves it and it's been great to help him understand why we need to look after our seas." ; "Every school should have a copy and it should be required reading. Beautiful illustrations, a happy ending and educational but fun. My kids just love it!" ; "As an early childhood teacher there is nothing more rewarding than seeing a class of little faces completely engrossed in a story...Ellie's book Duffy's Lucky Escape does just that. The book provides just the right balance of education, concern and action for children to feel empowered and begin really important conversations about looking after our oceans. Thanks Ellie! Your book is a resource I will share with the children many many times to promote lifelong, positive attitudes towards caring for our environment." ; "I have not come across many books in my 15 years of education that have had such an impact! A must have for all primary school teachers."

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Book SynopsisMarli’s Tangled Tale takes you to the cool and green cliffs where Marli the Puffin lives with her soon to hatch egg until one day the excitement of the far away town visits in an unexpected way. As hope starts to fade her tangled tale takes a twist just in time for the surprise waiting for her back at home! Marli's Tangled Tale is based on true events and it is this powerful message which invites children and adults alike to question the impact of ocean plastic on our environment. With ideas and activities which reinforce the story this is a book which will inspire children to make changes to the world around them. There is a huge growing national and international consciousness about the dangers of palm oil and deforestation and it is important to teach children about this devastating global issue without overwhelming them or shocking them. The Wild Tribe Heroes series of books guides young readers through the issues in a gentle and friendly way together with further information to inspire children to make changes to their own and their families lives. Sold over 30,000 books in the series in just 2 years ; No 1 bestselling books ; Personal letters of congratulations from Sir David Attenborough and Prince Charles ; All books are based on true stories which means that children are more connected to the issue. ; Featured in national media - BBC, ITV, Guardian, Huffington Post and Mail on Sunday ; Sold by WH Smiths, Waterstones, National Trust, RNLI, Surfers Against Sewage, #2MinuteBeachClean. ; Stocked by over 250 museums, national libraries, bookshops and gift shops, zero waste and farm shops and major tourist attractions such as The Eden Project and London & Chester Zoos ; Reached over a million children worldwide in schools ; Translated into 15 different languages so farTrade ReviewPraise for the Wild Tribe Heroes series ; "This super story has struck a chord with primary aged children from EYFS to year 6. We used it as a teaching text during our waste week and it has been inspirational and prompted some fantastic learning. A must have for all primary school teachers!"' ; "We are really enjoying having this book as one of our bedtime stories. My son loves it and it's been great to help him understand why we need to look after our seas." ; "Every school should have a copy and it should be required reading. Beautiful illustrations, a happy ending and educational but fun. My kids just love it!" ; "As an early childhood teacher there is nothing more rewarding than seeing a class of little faces completely engrossed in a story...Ellie's book Duffy's Lucky Escape does just that. The book provides just the right balance of education, concern and action for children to feel empowered and begin really important conversations about looking after our oceans. Thanks Ellie! Your book is a resource I will share with the children many many times to promote lifelong, positive attitudes towards caring for our environment." ; "I have not come across many books in my 15 years of education that have had such an impact! A must have for all primary school teachers."

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book Synopsis

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Book SynopsisIllustrated by Arthur Rackham. Far from fading with time, Kenneth Grahame's classic tale of fantasy has attracted a growing audience in each generation. Rat, Mole, Badger and the preposterous Mr Toad, have brought delight to many through the years with their odd adventures on and by the river, and at the imposing residence of Toad Hall.

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Book SynopsisFor Aiden, Chloe, Ava and Josh, holidays at their grandparents' cottage mean wild beaches, no curfew, Bella the dog, and most of all - adventure!Everyone is really excited about the autumn Fire Festival. Bonfires, barrel rolling, music and fireworks! But with suspicious blazes breaking out across town, the cousins realise that something sinister is going on. Can they uncover the secret of Fire Bay before things go up in flames?Fleur Hitchcock is famous for her excellent "thrillers for beginners". This action-packed series takes 7+ readers on fantastic, realistic adventures.Cover illustration by Tom Clohosy Cole.Don't miss the other Clifftoppers adventures!The Arrowhead Moor AdventureThe Thorn Island AdventureThe Frost Castle AdventureLook out for Fleur Hitchcock's stories for older readers:Dear ScarlettSaving SophiaMurder In MidwinterMurder At TwilightThe Boy Who Flew

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Book SynopsisFrom the author of The Valley of Lost Secrets comes a thrilling adventure about the power of friendship, set in a Welsh valley in the 1970s, for readers of 9+. Jason lives with his big brother, Richie, trying their best to make ends meet so they can stay together. They've got supportive neighbours and some great friends, but there's always the threat that someone will think they can't manage on their own since their parents died. It’s February 1974 and working-class families have been hit hard by the three-day week. The reduced power usage means less work, and less money to get by on. Richie is doing his best, but to make enough money, he’s been doing favours for the wrong people. An urban legend about a beast in the valleys catches Jason's eye in the local paper. A wild cat is said to roam the forest, far up the river from their bridge. A reward is offered for proof of The Beast’s existence. Jason's friends are desperate to help him, and they convince him that this is the answer to his and Richie’s money problems. And so a quest begins. Four best friends soon find themselves on a journey that will change each of them … forever. With echoes of Stand By Me, this thrilling middle-grade adventure is packed with irresistible characters and a page-turning plot with relatable themes, making this another timeless story from one of our finest writers of historical fiction for kids. 'What a story. What a writer. Simply stunning' - Emma Carroll Selected as The Sunday Times Children's Book of the Week 12 March 2023Trade ReviewWhat a story. What a writer. Simply stunning * Emma Carroll *A luminous love letter to brotherhood & friendship. It sits effortlessly alongside Stand By Me & Ostrich Boys. And like everything Lesley writes, it radiates a big, beautiful heart * Phil Earle *A poignant, funny adventure for 9+, rich in bittersweet, evocative detail. -- Imogen Russell Williams * Guardian *With echoes of Stand By Me, this thrilling middle-grade adventure gives us the most exquisite characterisation and a page-turning plot with relatable themes, making this utterly timeless and one of the finest historical fiction stories in the market today * The Bookseller *Entrancing -- James Lovegrove * Financial Times *Beautifully told. This appealing book is about losses healed, lies uncovered, cruelty defeated and goodness rewarded * Sunday Times on THE VALLEY OF LOST SECRETS *An assured, thoughtful historical novel with a richly evoked post-war Welsh setting * Guardian on WHEN THE WAR CAME HOME *

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Book SynopsisNoor loves her mum, and all the other hijabi women in her family, but wonders why do they wear headscarves? Is it so they can hide snacks for later? Or because they''re a super spy and hiding their secret identity?Full of curiousity, Noor sets out to find her answer, but her family are all busy and have no time to answer this important question. Just as Noor is ready to give up on her quest, her Ammu arrives home and knows just the thing to say.This heart-warming yet funny tale is a celebration of Muslim women, curious children, and family love.

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Book SynopsisWhen the cupboard is bare at the Flopsy Bunny's burrow, the family all have to go in search of food. They soon find some old lettuces on Mr McGregor's rubbish heap, but who can imagine the horrors that await them as they enjoy a nap after lunch.

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Book SynopsisEarn your Party Badge with Duggee!Delivery Chipmunk arrives at the clubhouse with a parcel for Duggee. It must be Duggee''s birthday, so the Squirrels decide to throw Duggee a surprise party!Can the Squirrels plan and organise a surprise birthday party without Duggee''s help?With a super glittery cover, this Hey Duggee picture book is the perfect birthday gift for little Duggee fans.

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Book SynopsisJoin Katie as she steps into some of the most famous paintings in the world for an exciting art adventure! Katie can''t decide what she wants to be when she grows up. Perhaps a trip to the gallery will be an inspiration, as the characters in five famous paintings come to life! Will she be an explorer, a train driver, a horse rider or an artist . . . ?''A wonderful way to engage children with art. A brilliant combination of education and storytelling'' - Parents in Touch (Katie''s Picture Show)This art adventure features five famous British paintings:The Cornfield by Constable, Rain, Steam and Speed and The Fighting Temeraire by Turner, Whistlejacket by Stubbs, and The Painter''s Daughters Chasing a Butterfly by Gainsborough.Classic picture book character, Katie, has been delighting children for over 25 years. Why not collect all 13 titles in the series?Katie''s Picture ShowKatie and the ImpressionistsTrade ReviewAppealing and imaginative mini-introduction to Art History * Bournemouth Daily Echo *Katie is engaging, mischievous, adventurous and playful ... a great book to read aloud * The Bookbag *The illustrations are mini-masterpieces and bring the story to life beautifully * Families (Bristol) *The formula for Katie's entry into the world of each painting is never forced and the author manages to maintain a balance between pastiche ad personal visual language through a genuine empathy with the formal qualities of the paintings * Books For Keeps *A fantastic read with fabulous illustrations * Kid Around *

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Book SynopsisAn emotionally charged story about the power of dreams, and how passion can turn to obsession.Beck hates his life. He hates his violent mother. He hates his home. Most of all, he hates the piano that his mother forces him to play hour after hour, day after day. He will never play as she did before illness ended her career and left her bitter and broken. But Beck is too scared to stand up to his mother, and tell her his true passion, which is composing his own music - because the least suggestion of rebellion on his part ends in violence.When Beck meets August, a girl full of life, energy and laughter, love begins to awaken within him and he glimpses a way to escape his painful existence. But dare he reach for it?Thrilling and powerfully written, this is an explosive debut for YA readers which tackles the dark topic of domestic abuse in an ultimately hopeful tale.Trade Review...shocking, but ultimately hopeful, tale. * EVENT (Mail on Sunday) *What an incredible book, truly magnificent - and it's fantastic to see YA discussing issues it seems to have shied away from in recent years. * No Safer Place *Viscerally violent from the opening sentence, authentically raw, and painful to read at times, this is a superbly told, emotionally charged story of obsession, abuse and the wonderful, terrible power of music both to destroy and, ultimately, to redeem. * Teach Secondary (online) *Moving and hopeful and completely brilliant - this is a fantastic debut and I can't wait to see more from C. G. Drews. * Rachel Meier - Canterbury Waterstones *Music and its transformative power. First love and its intense sweetness. Domestic violence and its pernicious enforcing of secrets. How does one create a magical and powerful story from such disparate ingredients? Well, read on. A Thousand Perfect Notes is a read of great intensity on multiple levels. * The Book Bag *...it's heartbreaking and everything I never knew I needed. * Ilsa - Whisper of Ink *A Thousand Perfect Notes can only be described as utterly disheartening and powerful. [...] I can't wait to read more of what C.G. Drews has up her sleeve. -- Bex Clare * Autumn Frost *This is a gripping story [...] Please go out and buy this if you can. It is so heartbreakingly wonderful. -- Steph Elliott * A Little But a Lot *...it is hard-hitting at times,but it is also full of hope, possibility and determination and it will have you flinching, crying, holding your breath and rushing to turn the page. * Rachael at Waterstones Altrincham *I would recommend this book to pretty much anyone who wants a hard-hitting contemporary read... * Book Browsing Blog *...this was just flawless. It really outlined so many issues; physical and mental abuse, but the themes of hope balanced it perfectly. * Sammy's Shelf (blog) *A quick YA with plenty of punch. * Read by Jess (blog) *...a read that will make you think and leave you wanting more. * Fabulous Book Fiend *A Thousand Perfect Notes takes a searingly powerful look at the theme of parental obsession... The book's final notes will linger in the air long after the last page has been turned. * Crime Review *

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Book SynopsisGet ready for an exciting fairy adventure with the no. 1 bestselling series for girls aged 5 and up.Join Rachel and Kirsty for an extra-special ocean fairy adventure! This bumper bind-up includes three Ocean Fairy stories - Ally the Dolphin Fairy, Pia the Penguin Fairy and Tess the Sea Turtle Fairy. ''These stories are magic; they turn children into readers!'' ReadingZone.comIf you like Rainbow Magic, check out Daisy Meadows'' other series: Magic Animal Friends and Unicorn Magic!Trade ReviewA sure-fire hit for girls - MumsenseRemains the number one series for girls aged five and over - BooksellerHugely popular with young girls - Sunday ExpressA lovely set of books for girls to collect - Parents in Touch

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Book SynopsisJoin Rachel and Kirsty on their adventures with the Gold Medal Games Fairies. It''s time for the skateboarding competition but Skye the Skateboarding Fairy''s magical skateboard is missing! Is the competition be doomed?When Rachel and Kirsty compete in the School Gold Medal Games, trouble seems to be around every corner. Naughty Jack Frost and his mischievous goblins are determined to sabotage the games and Rachel and Kirsty must do everything they can to help Riley the Skateboarding Fairy to save the skateboarding event.Don''t miss the rest of the Gold Medal Games Fairies series: Layne the Surfing Fairy, Soraya the Skiing Fairy and Jayda the Snowboarding Fairy.''These stories are magic; they turn children into readers!'' ReadingZone.comIf you like Rainbow Magic, check out Daisy Meadows'' other series: Magic Animal Friends and Unicorn Magic!

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Book Synopsis*Shortlisted for the Sainsbury''s Book Award* This is a thrill-ride of an adventure, with illustrations by Ben Mantle bringing Boot''s world to life. Fans of Toy Story and Charlie Changes into a Chicken will love this hilarious, warm-hearted story about a small robot on a big adventure: full of fun, friendship ... and Boot''s quest to find out why humans are so leaky and weird. ''Fast, funny and furious. These are definitely my favourite robots.'' Eoin ColferWhen toy robot, Boot, wakes up at a scrapyard, it has no idea how it got there and why it isn''t with its owner, Beth. It only has two and a half glitchy memories, but it knows it was loved, which means something important to humans. Boot soon realises its emotions make it different to other robots, who just function and don''t think. Boot is scared but tries to be brave, which is hard when its screen keeps showing a wobbly, worried face. Luckily Boot meets Noke and Red - other ''advaTrade ReviewPraise for Darkmouth:Shane Hegarty explodes into the fantasy universe with Darkmouth. Hilarious and exciting. Terrifying and heart-stopping. Everything a great fantasy series should be. The next big thing is here * Eoin Colfer, author of Artemis Fowl *Praise for Darkmouth: Packed with wonderful characters and imaginative gadgets, and the fast-paced action is underpinned with a dry wit * Daily Mail *Praise for Darkmouth: Hegarty understands the importance of humour for young readers. One of the great pleasures of being scared is the release of laughter that comes afterwards, and Darkmouth is peppered with sly, gentle wit * The Irish Times *

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Book SynopsisFunny Stories for 5-Year-Olds is a bright and varied selection of wonderfully entertaining stories by some of the very best writers for children. Perfect for reading alone or aloud - and for dipping into time and time again.With stories from Dick King-Smith, Tony Ross, Alf Prøysen, Malorie Blackman and many more, this book will provide hours of fantastic fun.

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Book SynopsisA stunning novella by a hot new talent in YA, in a gorgeous collectable edition. A brilliantly diverse cast of characters face heartbreak and home truths as they return to their old school and discover no one can ever truly go back. Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers aged 13+ Four friends meet up at their old school to open the memory box they stowed there years ago – with five letters inside for four of them, because their friend Millie has died. When they open the box they find a new letter from Millie and discover that she has left them special instructions: permission to open her letter only if they all read aloud the letters they wrote to their older selves, revealing their deepest secrets. Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers aged 13+Trade Review“The emotions are intense, even as they are expressed in everyday language, and the characters are convincing” – Sunday Times, Children's Book of the Week "Frank, often funny, it’s completely in tune with its readership" – LoveReading4Kids "Non Patt is brilliant at bringing teenagers off the page: there are no fancy devices or contrived scenes – they just are and it takes a lot of skill to do that" – The Bookbag "It's awesome awesomeness" – Holly Bourne

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Book SynopsisA heart-warming and thought-provoking story of family, friendship and foodbanks, from an award-winning author well-known for his gritty realism for teens. Cal's family are proud to live in an 'analogue' world – no wifi in their house , just an ancient black-and-white TV. At school, Cal has no choice but to live in the 21st century, coping with a range of bullies and chancers on a daily basis. When Cal's mum decides to 'rebalance' the family with a stint as volunteers at a local foodbank, Cal inadvertently discovers new kid Jacob's secret, and Jacob flips. Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers aged 13+Trade Review"Funny and thought-provoking … An enjoyable and easy read with a strong storyline and great characterisation" – Children's Books Ireland "A belting read that romps along at a fair old pace and will keep the most reluctant reader turning the pages" – The Letterpress Project "Bali Rai is one of those writers who never fails to excite and get his readers thinking … Love, love, love this book. It makes plain the issue of modern-day poverty and the snowballing issues it creates, especially for a young person" – Novel Ideas, Blog "Powerful … Another important book from Barrington Stoke" – School Librarian Journal

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Book SynopsisA thrilling, high-octane sci-fi adventure from Bodyguard bestseller, Chris Bradford. In Gamer, Scott escaped Virtual Kombat – the all-too-real virtual reality game in which Vince Power risks the lives of street kids for profit. Scott's now on the run and comes across a gang of techno-hackers who share his wish to destroy VK. They've developed a virus that could do the job, but in order to implant it Scott has to re-enter the arena and risk being trapped inside the game forever… A nerve-wracking sci-fi tale, perfect for fans of Chris, action, adventure and gaming. Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant or dyslexic readers aged 9+Trade Review"Chris Bradford is an expert at keeping the tension high" – LoveReading4Kids "The depth of plotting and sense of jeopard are compelling" – BookTrust "The pace of the book really is relentless – in a good way. The jeopardy levels are cranked up to maximum and you can't ever tell who is to be trusted and who isn't … a page turner" – The Letterpress Project "A fast-paced and tightly written dystopian adventure" – Library Girl and Book Boy, Blog "A fun virtual reality adventure which today's youngsters will really enjoy" – Parents in Touch

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Book SynopsisA powerful and deeply moving coming-of-age drama from Carnegie Medal-winning author Tanya Landman, inspired by the life of infamous sharpshooter Annie Oakley. After the death of her beloved father, Maggie and her family are thrown into a life of destitution. With little income and no way to live off their poor land, Maggie tries to provide for her family the way her father always had – with his hunting rifle and whatever animals the forest would provide. But when her mother is confronted with her "unladylike" behaviour, Maggie is thrown into a life of unthinkable cruelty and abuse. With no one to care for her and only the hope of escape, all Maggie can do is survive.Trade Review“Landman is known for her ferocious, affecting historical fiction … this is one of her best. Grim yet uplifting, this slim, tough book will grip its reader from first page to last” – Guardian "Brilliantly told … grabs you from the very outset with a pacey opening and just never lets you go" – The Letterpress Project "Another beautifully crafted, satisfying read from one of our most accomplished writers for young people" – Books for Keeps "Landman writes with pace, passion and expertise" – The Times

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Book SynopsisTake flight with a truly inspirational tale of courage and self-belief, inspired by the incredible life of Sophie Blanchard, the world’s first female hot-air balloonist Scaredy-Cat Sophie is afraid of everything! So when a balloonist comes to the town fair, Sophie is left behind while everyone else goes to watch him fly in his marvellous balloon. She's far too frightened of the crowds, the commotion and even riding in a horse-drawn carriage. But Sophie longs to watch the hot-air balloon sail across the blue sky. If she could just be brave enough to face her fears, who knows where her journey might take her … A touching tale for young readers of learning to overcome anxiety and follow your dreams.Trade Review"Adorable illustrations by Briony May Smith … A super-readable story, imbued with wonder" – Guardian "Katherine Woodfine has managed to fit a really fabulous story into a very manageable sized book … I am in awe of anyone who can encapsulate so much in a relatively small word count but, for me, this is an example of how it can be achieved brilliantly" – Kate Poels "Simple and heart-warming, with beautiful illustrations … young readers are sure to be empowered by Sophie’s courage by the end" – Scotsman "Both entertaining and empowering. Briony May Smith’s gallery of colourful and atmospheric illustrations are the perfect foil for a story full of adventure, discovery and daring" – Lancashire Evening Post "A very positive message … Will encourage children to linger and look … I think this is a gorgeous “Little Gem” that will be enjoyed by many readers and would make a delightful introduction to historical fiction" – A Library Lady, Blog

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Book SynopsisCelebrate the buzz of the Rugby World cup with this action-packed, globe-trotting rugby adventure from top-selling author Tom Palmer. Borderlands First XV have their sights set on becoming the best school rugby team in the world. But while the boys focus on their matches, many of their parents are serving overseas in the armed forces, and everyone is worried as conflict grows in the Central Asian Republic. New pupil Woody is a footballer by nature and must decide if he's prepared to give rugby his all. Rory feels like he's losing his focus, distracted by thoughts of his parents in danger. And Owen finds himself a t the centre when conflict breaks out within the team. With so many hurdles to face along the way, how far will they get in the rigorous schools' tournament?Trade Review"A good book that I really enjoyed reading … I like this because it is very exciting but there is a lot of humour too" – Reader Review, Teen Titles "Written with sensitivity and insight, and illustrated by David Shephard, this book comes packed with drama, suspense, some real-life issues, and all the excitement – and ups and downs – of sporting action and shared team spirit. A brilliant book for rugby fans, adrenaline addicts and reluctant readers…" – Lancashire Evening Post "The dilemmas the characters face are well defined and the reader will be drawn into their decision-making in this pacy story with sport and loyalty at its heart" – Parents in Touch "Palmer is a first class story teller … there’s light and shade in his stories and I thought it was excellent that the ‘baddies’ in these stories aren’t cartoon villains but complex characters in their own right" – The Letterpress Project "Will resonate with anyone who has played a team sport … Skilful storytelling makes Rugby Academy an exciting read, even for non-sports fans, and will appeal to readers with a wide range of interests" – BookTrust

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Book SynopsisAn unlikely friendship is forged between android and student in this wildly imaginative sci-fi mystery from YA star Lauren James. Wealthy students from across the galaxy come to learn at the prestigious academy where Hugo toils as a watchmaker. But he is one of the lucky ones. Many androids like him are jobless and homeless. Someone like Dorian could never understand their struggle – or so Hugo thinks when the pompous duke comes banging at his door. But when Dorian's broken time-travel watch leads them to discover a sinister scheme, the pair must reconcile their differences if they are to find the culprit in time. A wildly imaginative sci-fi adventure from YA star Lauren James, particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant or dyslexic readers aged 13+Trade Review“SUCH an adorable and fun short story … You're in for a treat” – Alice Oseman, author "Rich and brilliantly bonkers … Its themes of social justice and equality really set it apart in the sci-fi genre" – Belfast Telegraph "Charming and funny" – BookTrust "James creates a world full of impossible wonders … an important story about friendship and doing the right thing by others" – The Letterpress Project "Fantastic science-fiction … wildly inventive" – Armadillo Magazine

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Book SynopsisAnother hilarious DAISY adventure from the bestselling author behind the OI FROG series. Here comes trouble! Daisy is going on a school trip to Bobbington Hall! But the trouble with school trips is that teachers will be there too. So Daisy can't go exploring! There will be: Suits of armourOlden toiletsSecret passages The trouble is, they're proving really hard to find! But what will happen when Daisy does find the secrets of Bobbington Hall?

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Book SynopsisDaisy's getting into more trouble than ever in her tenth brilliantly funny book! From the bestselling author behind the hilarious OI FROG series. Here comes trouble! Daisy has a lot to learn when it comes to saving and making money. When her best friend Gabby gets the most awesome, immense, water-squirting micro-scooter Daisy's ever seen, she MUST have one too! The trouble is, is they cost a LOT of money. So Daisy and Gabby hatch a money-making plan. Surely nothing will go wrong?Trade ReviewTen novels in and Kes Gray’s Daisy is as much of a troublemaker as ever * Financial Times *

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Book Synopsis‘Love alters not with his brief hours and weeks, But bears it out even to the edge of doom’Sonnets are for romantics, starry-eyed lovers and ardent hearts. And Shakespeare’s sonnets are the best ever written.But this is why they are also for cynics, for star-crossed lovers and for those who know the anguish of unrequited love. Some of them are written to a young man, some of them to a woman. And although the poems are full of mystery – why did Shakespeare write them, what was his sexuality? – each one speaks to us from across the centuries of love, hate and the intensity of being alive.Includes exclusive content: In the 'Backstory' you can find a short, handy, funny guide to everything you might want to know about Shakespeare and his sonnets.‘This is a crazy, all-consuming, feverish and sweaty love; love, in all its uncut, full-strength intensity; an adolescent love’ Don Paterson, GuardianTrade ReviewThe great master who knew everything...an unspeakable source of delight -- Charles DickensEvery age has reinvented the Bard in its own image. Renaissance Man or post-modern angst... Shakespeare haunts our language * Independent *Shakespeare was the most consummate genius of all time -- Peter AckroydDante and Shakespeare divide the modern world between them, there is no third -- T.S. EliotEvery single character in Shakespeare is as much an Individual as those in Life itself -- Alexander Pope

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Book SynopsisAward-winning author Tanya Landman brings a fresh perspective to horse-riding stories with a heart-warming new series about friendship and dreaming big. Meg treasures every moment that she gets to spend riding, and she has always longed for a pony of her own. She knows Mum and Dad can’t afford a pony – they can’t even afford her weekly riding lessons any more. But on the morning of her tenth birthday, Meg looks out the window to an unbelievable sight … a pony standing in the front garden. Have all of Meg’s wishes come true? Award-winning author Tanya Landman brings a fresh perspective to horse-riding stories with a heart-warming new series about friendship and dreaming big.Trade Review"This book may be short but the impact it has is astounding. It is perfect for all young horse-riding fanatics out there and this book will give budding young riders hope whilst providing a background rarely seen in horse-riding fiction" – Emma Suffield, librarian "This lovely story is perfect for horse lovers and anyone who has a dream" – Scope for the Imagination, blog "An absolute delight from start to finish … I can't wait for Meg and Merlin's next adventure" – NetGalley reviewer

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Book SynopsisA beautifully illustrated anthology of forty-four short poems by award-winning Children's Laureate Joseph Coelho, designed to be shared together. Blow a kiss, catch a kiss when we are apart. Blow a kiss, catch a kiss put it in your heart. From Eye Caterpillars to The Journey Game, and from Dancing Families to Dreamtime, this collection of fun and heart-warming poems from award-winning children's poet Joseph Coelho are perfect for sharing everyday feelings and experiences. ‘A delightful selection of interactive poems for toddlers... illustrated with a multitude of gorgeous children by Killen’ The Bookseller, Editor's ChoiceTrade Review"A delightful selection of interactive poems for toddlers... illustrated with a multitude of gorgeous children by Killen" * The Bookseller, Editor's Choice *"Illustrated by Nicola Killen, these are ‘poems to share with little ones’, and they demonstrate Coelho’s enviable gift of getting inside toddler lives, delivered with fun and tenderness" * Books for Keeps *"Perfectly pitched for modern families and covering a range of topics that will be familiar to all, this anthology for babies and toddlers presents a collection of brand-new poems that already feel like much-loved classics" * Books for Keeps *"The new children’s laureate with a collection of beautifully illustrated poems about everyday (young) life" * Reader's Digest, 2022 Best Children's Books *"Perfect for sharing everyday feelings and experiences with babies and toddlers" * BookTrust *

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Book SynopsisA new 20th anniversary edition of the utterly classic Clarice Bean, Utterly Me, the very first novel by bestselling Children's Laureate, Lauren Child.Clarice Bean loves reading the adventures of Ruby Redfort, ace girl detective and secret undercover agent. Ruby is always going on exciting missions, but the most Clarice gets to do is go to the local shop on her own . . . But when Clarice and her best friend, Betty Moody, decide to do their school project on the Ruby Redfort books, they suddenly start finding mysteries everywhere. Like why are all the coats on the wrong hooks at school? Where has Granddad disappeared to? And just what is going on in the garden shed?'An utterly fantastic book.'The Sunday TimesTrade ReviewA lively illustrated read * We Love This Book *"The delightfully wacky Clarice Bean is the star of this absorbing story bubbling with exuberance and vitality." * Good Book Guide *Child can make you laugh and cry at virtually every page. * Big Issue (Giles Andreae) *Lauren Child's earlier creation - schoolgirl Clarice Bean - is arguably her greatest. * Sunday Express *Essential reading for all savvy girls... great fun. * Angels & Urchins *Quirky, funny and brilliantly illustrated. (tBk's Top 40 Children's Books) * tBk Magazine *

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Book SynopsisAlex and Conner Bailey have not been back to the magical Land of Stories since their adventures in The Wishing Spell ended. But one night, they learn the famed Enchantress has kidnapped their mother. Against the will of their grandmother (the one and only Fairy Godmother), the twins must find their own way into the Land of Stories to rescue their mother and save the fairy tale world from the greatest threat it's ever faced.Trade ReviewThere is more in Colfer's magic kingdoms than Disney has dreamt of * USA Today *

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Book SynopsisDonna is in the Caribbean visiting family while the boys are bored at home, filling time with computer games - until Sam persuades Arun to pay Donna a surprise visit using MANDROID.

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Book Synopsis A magical adventure to delight the imagination. The curl-up-on-the-sofa snuggle of a series from a uniquely talented author. Trade Review‘A delight from first page to last’ Mail on Sunday ‘Enchanting debut’ Independent ‘Inspiring read’ Hello! Magazine ‘A lovely and enchanting read, whether you’re 9 years old or 49 years old’ The Belfast Telegraph ‘A warm tribute to the joy of stories, Tilly and the Bookwanderers is a thoroughly entertaining magical adventure which will chime with anyone who can't resist just one more chapter’ The Booktrust

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Book SynopsisHarperCollins is proud to present its new range of best-loved, essential classics.''Fifteen men on the dead man''s chest Yo-ho-ho, and a bottle of rum!''Upon finding a map in his parents'' inn, young Jim Hawkins joins a crew on route to the Caribbean to find buried treasure. One of his crew, the charming, yet devious Long John Silver is determined to snag the booty for himself and Jim''s swashbuckling voyage becomes a mutinous and murderous adventure where his own bravery is put to the test and he discovers much about friendship, loyalty and betrayal.

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“This party starts early, and it does not stop until all the bodies have hit the floor.” — Stephen Graham Jones, author of Mongrels and The Only Good Indians "Adam Cesare's CLOWN IN A CORNFIELD starts as a fun and scary retro-slasher but then cleverly twists and bloodies its way into being a very new kind of beast. Rejoice horror fans new and old, and be terrified of Adam's everyday clowns." — Paul Tremblay, author of A Head Full of Ghosts and The Cabin at the End of the World "Tense, modern and gory, Cesare's Clown in a Cornfield is simultaneously classic and fresh. This is thrilling, old school horror for a new generation." — Madeleine Roux, author of the Asylum series "There’s a lot to love about Adam Cesare’s new novel, Clown in a Cornfield. First, the title. Holy crap. Then the front cover. Double holy crap. Also consider it’s already received blurbs from people like Clive Barker, Stephen Graham Jones, and Paul Tremblay? Triple holy crap. People are going to be talking about this novel all year. Get ready for it." — Lit Reactor "The immersive atmosphere, nail-biting action sequences, and satisfying social commentary results in a thoughtful, campy, and just-plain-fun read for horror fans, especially those who crave a retro feel but still want a story set firmly in the present." — Library Journal (starred review) "A pulse-pounding thrill ride for retro-horror fans who are not faint of heart (or stomach)." — Kirkus Reviews "This pitch-perfect horror experience can be enjoyed as pure entertainment for its fun retro slasher style, but teen readers will also fully appreciate the sly underlying social commentary." — Booklist (starred review) "With this novel, Cesare is going to create a new generation of life-long horror fans." — Signal Horizon Magazine "Cesare’s cinematic eye means the set-pieces are loud, brash, and dramatic (it’s no surprise that there’s a film adaptation in the works). Given what we are all experiencing now, there’s something wonderfully pleasing, nostalgic, and even therapeutic spending several hours cheering on Quinn – smart and brave -- as she takes on [...] killer clowns." — Locus Magazine "Clown in a Cornfield delivers everything the title promises--and more. More carnage, more mayhem and a sly social commentary that cuts to the bone. A must-read for horror fans." — Riley Sager, New York Times bestselling author of Final Girls Clown in a Cornfield is a true-to-form classic horror story, complete with blood and gore, chainsaws and crossbows, and abundant deaths. This is a truly fun piece of escapism for teens who are okay with slasher-flick violence. — YALSA’s Best Fiction for Young Adults Nominee This debut horror novel has all the trappings of a good, popcorn-scented slasher flick. Reluctant readers will find this a quick and fun read. They will definitely appreciate the stress-relieving escapism. Suggest it to readers looking for Stephen King read-alikes and fans of the Friday the 13th franchise. — YALSA Quick Picks for Reluctant Readers Nominee

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