Children & Teen Fiction Books

Book SynopsisAlex's best friend is Kevin the cockapoo, although what he wants most of all is a friend at school. A charming and gentle story about how life isn''t one size fits all.Everything is changing for 11-year-old Alex and, as an autistic person, change can be terrifying. With the first day of high school only a couple of months away, Alex is sure that having a friend by his side will help. So, he's devised a plan impress the kids at school by winning a trophy at the PAWS Dog Show with his trusty sidekick, Kevin. This should be a walk in the park ... right?Trade ReviewPaws is a thoughtful, and well-crafted book which deals with friendship and hope. Alex is a wonderfully caring character. * Maisie Chan *This was a charming read I thoroughly enjoyed. I think any young reader will relate to Alex as he navigates school, dreams and forming friendships with the fun of a dog show thrown in! Honest, touching and real ... a hug of a book. * Gina Blaxill *This is a book about friendship and it's ADORABLE. It's gentle & heart warming and – thankfully, because it's impossible not to care – has the perfect feel good ending * Perdita Cargill *I raced through this book and really related to it again due to Loghan and the issues that he faces. The book is written beautifully with a lovely story and well developed characters that I loved especially Alex. I loved that their was a dog in this story who was Alex's best friend because honestly as a mother of a boy who faces the same challenges as Alex, this really resonated with me. [...] I loved it and if you like reading middle grade books, love dogs or just love heart-warming books in general, this is the book for you. -- @fiction_vixen18This book is aimed at age 7-10 but I got a lot out of it as an adult too. It was so educational. My son (age 8) has recently been diagnosed as autistic and basically Alex is him! He related to Alex in so many ways, he said ‘Alex talks like me, and his brain blocks out things like mine does’, he was eager to read this every night, I think it really resonated with him and it’s definitely one we will be re-read, especially as he gets older. -- @real_mother_booker

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Book SynopsisMeet Julian, Dick, Anne, George and Timothy. Together they are THE FAMOUS FIVE - Enid Blyton''s most popular adventure series. All 21 titles also available as audiobooks!In book seven, the Famous Five investigate spook trains in the dead of night. The trains seem to vanish into thin air, but where do they go? The Five discover an unusual underground tunnel system and a secret train-service.If they follow the tracks, will they solve the mystery?Fantastic new cover art by Laura Ellen Anderson will draw young readers into this accessible timeless classic.Trade ReviewThe prize must go to the adventures of George and co. Listed as one of the 100 Best Children's Books Ever (Novels) * The Daily Telegraph *One of the 50 books every child should read by Age 16 * essexbaby.co.uk *Famous Five books are essential for all children's bookshelves * MADEFORMUMS.COM *I thought this series was wonderful. It struck me as a great injustice that they were having adventures and I wasn't -- Alexander McCall Smith * The Sunday Telegraph *Dangerous criminals are no match for children and a dog. Adults are useless * Country Life *Always popular, always a favourite. And ALWAYS full of adventure -- Dan Smith * The Big Issue *

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Book SynopsisLyra Belacqua and her animal daemon live half-wild and carefree amongscholars of Jordan College, Oxford. The destiny that awaitsher will take her to the frozen lands of the Arctic, where witch-clansreign and ice-bears fight. Her extraordinary journey will haveimmeasurable consequences far beyond her own world...

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Book SynopsisEnter the colourful world of Indigo Wilde and the magical creatures she takes care of ... When a moon bear appears at the door with news that her parents have vanished, Indigo''s off on a hair-raising adventure! A wonderfully wild new series for readers of 7+ and fans of Pippi Longstocking and Amelia Fang.On Thursday, the doorbell rings at Indigo Wilde''s house on Jellybean Crescent. It''s a moon bear - an enormous winged bear covered with stars, the rarest of all rare creatures.The bear tells Indigo that her parents were studying it in its habitat in the Unknown Wilderness ... and now they''ve vanished.Indigo and her brother Quigley head off to rescue their parents. On their journey they come across many magical and extraordinary new creatures, but their parents are nowhere to be seen. Fortunately, there are other people studying the wildlife in the Unknown Wilderness. But do the people Indigo and Quigley meet really have the best intentions? Or are t

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Book SynopsisBlack Beauty chronicles the life of a horse in Victorian England. At the hands of different owners, he experiences discipline, friendship, overwork, and, ultimately, love. Young readers will be moved by this empathetic novel about animal hardship a story that's still relevant today.

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Book SynopsisJust your average boy-meets-girl, girl-kills-people story ... Kendare Blake will enchant you with this thrillingly creepy romance.Trade ReviewThis is an enjoyable book - as fast-paced and sarcastic and as romantically bittersweet as a Bronte novel * welovethisbook.com *I lived inside of this novel, swallowed whole by it's beauty and anguish. In short...it was captivating. * KindleObsessed.com *Grabs you from the first sentence. The story is full of sharp wit and terrifying chills that will keep readers enthralled until the last page. * RT Book Reviews *The central characters are strong and well-rounded...vivd and real * The Bookbag *Sucked me in and kept me glued to the pages. * Paranormal Book Reviews *Wow. Just wow. * FWIW.net *Vivid and real. * Bookbag *This is an enjoyable book - as fast-paced and gory as Darren Shan, amusingly sarcastic and as romantically bittersweet as a Brontë novel. * We Love This Book *

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Book SynopsisStraighten your cape and sharpen your claws . . . being a vampire is harder than it looks! The spookiest story you'll read this year from Alex Foulkes, illustrated by Sara Ogilvie.'A wickedly fun debut, with a wonderfully strong girl hero' Cressida Cowell, Children's Laureate There are highs and lows to being a vampire. On one claw, you get cool powers like beastly strength and hypnotism and the ability to GRIMWALK.  On the other claw, however, vampires are bound by the Vampiric Laws: rules to protect the balance between the worlds of the Living and the Undead.  And unfortunately, 11-year-old Leo has just forgotten rule number one . . . The Rules for Vampires don't tell you what to do when you make a ghostly enemy, or accidentally restart an ancient war.  But Leo and her very unusual family are more than up to the job.A monstrously funny and devilishly dark new adventure from debu

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Join best friends Rachel and Kirsty for a very magical Royal Wedding!Meghan's special magic looks after the magic of matrimony everywhere. But when naughty Jack Frost steals her magical triple-jewelled engagement ring (that she wears on a charm round her neck), he breaks the spell of love in both the fairy and human worlds! Couples and best friends everywhere keep falling out, and forgetting what it is they love about each other. Kirsty and Rachel must help Meghan get her ring back before the Fairyland royal wedding, and weddings everywhere, are ruined!'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 SynopsisA secret world full of magic, unicorns and friendship! The brand-new series from the bestselling Daisy Meadows, author of RAINBOW MAGIC and MAGIC ANIMAL FRIENDS, and the most-borrowed author in UK libraries.Join best friends Emily and Aisha as they discover a secret world full of unicorns, magic and friendship! Journey with them to the beautiful kingdom of Enchanted Valley, where the beautiful Queen Aurora rules kindly over the unicorns and all other magical creatures. Emily and Aisha are delighted when they''re whisked away for another adventure in Enchanted Valley. Canterpop the Party Unicorn''s triplet foals need the girls'' help to make Queen Aurora''s birthday truly special. The young unicorns love making special occasions magical - but when evil unicorn Selena and her raccoon sidekick Bandit steal Canterpop''s special lockets, disaster strikes. Can Emily, Aisha and the triplet foals find the lockets before Queen Aurora''s surprise birthday party is ruined?

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Book SynopsisFrom the bestselling author of Horrible Histories, named ''the outstanding children''s non-fiction author of the 20th century'' by Books For Keeps_______________This brand new, thrilling adventure from Terry Deary brings the closing days of the First World War to life. Perfect for fans of Michael Morpurgo and John Boyne.It''s 1918 and the Great War is entering its final phase. In northern France, young Aimee has just found out that her mother is part of a spy network working with the British. After reluctantly befriending Marius, a German boy who has been left behind by his countrymen, she must try to help him get back behind German lines while evading a traitor she has helped to discover.This page-turning adventure sheds new light on the First World War and will have readers gripped from start to finish.Book band: Dark BlueIdeal for readers aged 8+_______________Bubbling with wit, language play and robust dialogue....just the right mix of iTrade ReviewHorrible Histories author Terry Deary tells the story of the last year of the First World War. Set in France, this fast-paced adventure features a young French girl, a young German boy and a traitor with a silver hand. Packed full of historical detail, it's a real page turner. -- The GuardianThe Silver Hand by Terry Deary is an involving and well-plotted wartime adventure crisply written in short sentences, but rich in factual detail. -- The Sunday TimesIn The Silver Hand, Terry Deary has illuminated the last year of the war for readers through a pacy adventure packed with accurate historical detail. And it's a pleasure to read. -- Jill Murphy, The BookbagThis is a gripping story. The action creeps up on you at first as the story is established and I like the development of the characters at the start; however, it's safe to say that once the plot takes hold, it doesn't release you until the very end... This is the sort of book that stays with you long after you've read the last page and I found myself thinking of Aimee and Marius for days afterwards! -- K and O: Bonkers About Books... this is a wonderful book that I thoroughly enjoyed and will be recommending to my class (Year 5). A truly engaging story set against an important period in British and world history that would fit well with anyone studying the First World War. -- Andrew Mullen, ReadingZoneOverall, this is a wonderful book that I thoroughly enjoyed and will be recommending to my class (Year 5). A truly engaging story set against an important period in British and world history that would fit well with anyone studying the First World War. -- Mr M Reads, ToppstaDeary's storytelling is simple, historically accurate and compelling. -- INews The Essential Daily Briefing

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewFrom the master of historical non-fiction and fiction Terry Deary himself, well-known for writing the Horrible Histories series, comes the latest offering in his Tales series – Stone Age Tales... Thoroughly enjoyable whilst providing a glimpse in to our past, they are the first choice of books I think about to complement any history topic in school. * The Reader Teacher, @MrEPrimary *All the stories are imaginatively written, have plenty of accurate historical detail based on real evidence, and illustrations which really do add to the setting. The writing style is pacy and there's plenty of action to hold children's attention. * Parents in Touch *

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Book SynopsisNo one knows how to throw a party like the Birthday Party Fairies! Join Rachel, Kirsty, Gracie and Khadijah on a magical birthday adventure.Can the fairy friends help Niamh the Invitation Fairy to send all her party invitations out in time?The Birthday Party Fairies are throwing the biggest celebration of the year - Queen Titania''s birthday party! But jealous Jack Frost has stolen their magical objects and is intent on spoiling the fun. Rachel, Kirsty, Gracie and Khadijah must work together to find the missing magical objects and save the party. But there wont be a party if they don''t help Niamh the Invitation Fairy to send out the invites. They better help her send them - and quickly! Don''t miss the rest of the Birthday Party Fairies series: Sara the Party Games Fairy, Lois the Balloon Fairy and Leahann the Birthday Present Fairy.''These stories are magic; they turn children into readers!'' ReadingZone.comIf youTrade ReviewMy daughter has loved the Rainbow Fairy books for some time now. * Toppsta Parent *This is a great book series, with many wonderful characters which are so likable and have great qualities to instil into the younger readers. * Toppsta Parent *

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Book SynopsisAxolotl longs for adventure. One day, she finds an old bottle with something amazing inside. What could it be? This entertaining story for beginner readers has simple rhyming text, stylish illustrations and parents' notes on phonics at the back of the book. With free online audio to listen to the story and weblinks to find out more about axolotls.

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Book SynopsisBilly is a street urchin, pickpocket and petty thief. Mister Creecher is a monstrous giant of a man who terrifies all he meets. Their relationship begins as pure convenience. But a bond swiftly develops between these two misfits as their bloody journey takes them ever northwards on the trail of their target . . . Victor Frankenstein.Friendship, trust and betrayal combine to form a dangerous liaison in this moving and frightening new book from Chris Priestley.Trade ReviewPraise for Mister Creecher: A brilliant counterpoint to Frankenstein, compellingly written. Chris Priestley goes from strength to strength * Chris Riddell *A dark, moving, creepy, funny tale about the making of a famous monster . . . only not the one you think it'll be. Splendid gothic stuff * Kim Newman, author of Nightmare Movies *Praise for the Tales of Terror books: A wonderfully nightmarish journey of the imagination - old-fashioned storytelling at its best * Daily Mail *The gradual build-up of horror . . . is exquisitely done. My insides were still untangling themselves hours after I had closed the book * Sunday Telegraph *

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Book SynopsisA charmingly illustrated book of ballet stories, specially selected and retold for younger children. Contains five classic ballet stories: The Nutcracker, Coppelia, Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella.

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Book SynopsisNow an animated series with Paramount+ and Nickelodeon! Bestselling author Lincoln Peirce takes readers on a hilarious, romantic, rock-and-roll adventure in this installment of the bestselling series! Nate Wright is born to be wild! And when Enslave the Mollusk is invited to play at the P.S. 38 annual open house, he and his bandmates are on the stairway to heaven. While the kids rock, the school year rolls on. Mrs. Godfrey is back in black, Gina thinks she’s hot stuff, and Coach John is dazed and confused.The good news: Nate’s finally reunited with Trudy, his summer crush. But when he finds out she’s a—gulp—seventh grader, will Nate lose that lovin’ feeling? Middle school is a long, strange trip, and this collection of riotous Big Nate comics just might BLOW THE ROOF OFF!

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Book SynopsisA gorgeous new edition of the Hogwarts Library containing three much loved classics Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, Quidditch Through the Ages and The Tales of Beedle the Bard from the wizarding world. These handsome hardback editions feature stunning jacket art by Jonny Duddle and beautiful interior illustrations by Tomislav Tomic they are irresistible reading for all Harry Potter fans, wizards and Muggles. A treasure trove of magical facts and fairy tales, the Hogwarts Library is an essential companion to the Harry Potter series. This set includes the updated edition of Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them which features a new foreword from J.K. Rowling (writing as Newt Scamander) and six new beasts!

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Book Synopsis'Immensely, cheerily silly' Guardian Dog lost in space? Grown an extra head and don't know why? Pocket money stolen by a green blob? You need the Space Detectives! Connor and Ethan are spending their summer holidays aboard the world's first orbiting city, Starville (basically Beverley Hills in space!). The amazing space station is bursting with celebrities and the mega-rich. But Connor and Ethan are too busy selling ice cream to see the sights. However, neither of our heroes can resist a mystery and when they discover the space station is hurtling on a collision course with the moon (eep!) they know they need to step in. This is a case for the SPACE DETECTIVES! Can Connor and Ethan find the culprit and save Starville from its impending doom? LOOK OUT FOR SPACE DETECTIVES: EXTRA WEIRD CREATURESTrade ReviewPacked with witty and dynamic black-and-white illustrations and a very human underlying message, this is an ideal chapter book for newly independent readers * BookTrust Great Books Guide 2021 *Immensely, cheerily silly * Guardian *A thunderously good read, so funny and action packed. I loved that it was fast paced and packed with wonderfully weird, out of this world characters brilliantly drawn. Children are going to love it! * Serena Patel, author of ANISHA, ACCIDENTAL DETECTIVE *SPACE DETECTIVES immerses you into an AMAZINGLY FUN galaxy of aliens, mystery, intrigue and has more twists than a puff pastry cheese twisty! Connor and Ethan are a ZILLION times better than Sherlock Holmes AND they have a sense of humour that is OUT OF THIS WORLD...watch out for the Snarltoothed Grizloid though! * Rikin Parekh *“Perfect space escapism with incredible art that screams "make me into a long-running cartoon please Netflix". A visual treat for younger readers with just the right amount of danger and drama.” * Louie Stowell *An intergalactic giggle-fest * Emer Stamp *This book was definitely a joy and a 5 star * NetGalley Reviewer *A great adventure filled with laughs & hijinks! * NetGalley Reviewer *I can't think of many children who would not enjoy this! * Educator, NetGalley Reviewer *Action and humour aplenty * Bookseller on SPY TOYS *‘[a] new series for fans of adventure and mystery to explore ... Author Mark Powers and illustrator Dapo Adeola serve up a thrilling intergalactic adventure with plenty of twists and turns * The Scotsman *

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Book Synopsis''Zany ... Even reluctant readers will have a blast'' IRISH TIMESIn a small town on the banks of Lake Laloozee lives Fabio, the world's greatest flamingo detective. He's not tall or strong, but slight and pink. And he's very, very clever Most of the time. But when an unusual lapse of judgement leads Fabio to accept a ride in his associate Gilbert's plane, little does he know he'll be nose-diving into a new mystery!When the tiny plane crash-lands near a remote village in the savannah, all Fabio wants is a pink lemonade to calm his nerves. But the town well has dried up, and the water didn't just disappear on its own! Fabio's on the case, and it's going to take a daring sting operation to set things right.The third book in the hilarious and stylish illustrated mystery series from the author of Captain Pug.Trade ReviewOodles to appeal to animal fans and young crime lovers alike * Bookseller *A welcome addition to the bookshelf * Carousel Magazine *Fab illustrations and neon-coloured pages * Angels and Urchins *Zany ... even reluctant readers will have a blast * Irish Times *This neon-bright mystery involves a talent show, a hippo jazz singer, gallons of pink lemonade and, of course, Fabio * Metro *Combines stunning artwork and colour palates (illustrator Emily Fox) – neon pinks and greens – with a smart and sassy who-dunnit tale, by Laura James, led by Fabio and his sidekick, Gilbert the Giraffe * iNews *Gorgeous funny young fiction * Bookseller on CAPTAIN PUG *Highly entertaining, wittily illustrated and fun to read alone * Julia Eccleshare, LoveReading4Kids on CAPTAIN PUG *A great book with lovely pictures and typography for five- to seven-year-olds who are starting to read for themselves and like dogs with multiple chins * The Times on COWBOY PUG *Whole lot of fun, well-paced and easy to read ... . This is an engaging read for newly independent readers and a fun book for adult and child to read together * DarkMatterZine *

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Book SynopsisIt's a new year at Wayside School, and Mrs Jewls's class on the thirtieth floor has a LOT to deal with. First of all, they must prepare to face The Ultimate Test, which involves a fiendishly difficult Spelling Bee, upside-down singing and blindfolded smelling. Meanwhile the paperclips are triple-locked in a safe so no one can access them, Miss Mush is threatening to serve rainbow stew for lunch – and a CLOUD OF DOOM is gathering over the school. It can only mean one thing … the kids at Wayside School are in for their strangest year yet! From the basement to the thirtieth floor, Wayside is packed with quirky and hilarious characters who are all brought to life in this brand-new instalment of Louis Sachar's much-loved Wayside School series. With brilliant illustrations throughout by award-winning Aleksei Bitskoff, this is an unmissable, irrepressible story of mixed-up mayhem from the bestselling author of Holes.Trade ReviewLouis Sachar is one of the few masters of American fiction * Independent on Sunday on Louis Sachar *Thirty clever, fast-moving stories that describe the bizarre events at Wayside School … each story is refreshingly different * Guardian on SIDEWAYS STORIES FROM WAYSIDE SCHOOL *Magic and hard realism come crashing together. This is an extraordinary and unconventional novel * Observer on HOLES *

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Book Synopsis‘Fantastically, gloriously funny’ Katherine Rundell, author of The Explorer ‘Snort-out-loud charm’ Observer ‘Fantastic! Pitch perfect comedic voice’ Katie Tsang, author of Dragon Mountain From comedian, actor, rapper and screenwriter Ben Bailey Smith comes a blazingly funny, big-hearted story about family, friendship and how far one boy will go to get a laugh. Perfect for fans of David Baddiel and Frank Cottrell-Boyce. For thirteen-year-old Carmichael Taylor, life is one big joke - in a good way. He just can't understand why no one else seems to find everything as funny as he does. When Car is filmed stumbling into performing a piece of hilarious stand-up at the school talent show - targeting his family, school and friends - the footage ends up creating international infamy. But with the promise of fame and fortune comes trouble, and it's up to Car to decide what or who he's willing to risk to chase his comedy dream. Get ready to laugh at life with this heart-warming, unashamedly honest and hilarious look at family, friendship and what really matters.Trade ReviewCarmichael is a brilliantly relatable lead on a very funny and often poignant journey of self-discovery * The Bookseller *Fantastically, gloriously funny. I loved this book; it gave me such joy at every single page * Katherine Rundell, author of The Explorer *This wise and warm book is fat because it’s composed of equal parts plot and comedic riffing, all of which feels essential to its snort-out-loud charm * Observer *Witty and touching, this book is ideal for 10-plus readers who love wordplay and wild, looping tangents * Guardian, Summer reading: the 50 hottest new books everyone should read *A hilarious and original story. Carmichael Taylor is the stuff of legends - he's my new favourite character * Katya Balen, author of The Space We're In *I absolutely LOVED it. A gloriously heartfelt tale wrapped up in first class comedy. I lost count of the number of times I laughed until I cried! * Sibéal Pounder, author of the Witch Wars series *In this charmingly vivid portrayal of family and the ups and downs of school life, Ben has included all the star ingredients for a funny, touching read which will really resonate with teens. With 13 year old Car in class you’re def never getting bored – I thoroughly recommend it! * Jasbinder Bilan, author of Asha and the Spirit Bird *An original concept, spot-on observations of family life and friendships, and snappy dialogue give this book a fresh feel. Best of all, it’s very, very funny! * Lesley Parr, author of The Valley of Lost Secrets *Fantastic! Pitch perfect comedic voice * Katie Tsang, author of Dragon Mountain *For a fast paced, funny romp, Ben Bailey Smith – otherwise known as rapper Doc Brown – has you covered ... a fun read * Independent *If you’re looking for a laugh, look no further than Something I Said * Scotsman *

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Book SynopsisDive back into the UNIverse with Neon for another unicorn-tastic adventure from Sibéal Pounder, the bestselling author of the Witch Wars and Bad Mermaids series.Neon Gallup is a unicorn. No, not a horse thing with a horn. That''s just something REAL unicorns made up to distract the humans. Until now, Neon thought she was the only person from our world who knew unicorns existed, but when she discovers her mum has been hiding a secret from her the whole time, she''s got to get to the bottom of it with a little help from her friends Moya and Geldie, some outrageous fashion choices and a whole lot of goo magic.

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Book SynopsisUtterly brilliant. Sensationally swashbuckling. Completely magical' A.F Steadman, author of Skandar and the Unicorn ThiefFrom the award-winning author of The Storm Keeper''s Island, set sail on Catherine Doyle''s latest perilous adventure to the magical islands of Darksea Deep in the heart of the Atlantic Ocean, where the full moon rests on the horizon, lies a secret kingdom called Darksea. Ruled by the Pirate King, Captain O'Malley, Darksea's tranquil waters have, of late, been haunted by an invisible and deadly monster a monster that is eating the once-beautiful islands in gigantic bites. On the other side of the horizon, at his home in Galway, Max Reid and his family are battling a different monster. His big brother Christopher is in hospital and getting sicker and his parents have begun to talk of miracles. Then one night a loud, bright red parrot taps on Max's bedroom window, carrying an invitat

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Book SynopsisLet the magic of J.K. Rowling's classic series take you back to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Issued to mark the 20th anniversary of first publication of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, these irresistible House Editions celebrate the noble character of the four Hogwarts houses. Featuring gorgeous house-themed cover art and interior line illustrations by Kate Greenaway Medal winner Levi Pinfold, each book will also have vibrant sprayed edges in the house livery. Entertaining bonus features exclusive to each house accompany the novel. All seven books in the series will be issued in these highly collectable House Editions.A must-have for anyone who has ever imagined sitting under the Sorting Hat in the Great Hall at Hogwarts waiting to hear the words, Better be GRYFFINDOR!'You'll always find a home at Hogwarts!

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Book SynopsisJoyful and truly original' Katherine Rundell, author of Impossible CreaturesWARNING: DO NOT JUMP ON THIS BOOK!Have you ever jumped on a book? Perhaps not. Most people would think it was a rather unusual thing to do. Ten-year-old Mayowa has always thought that her Grandpa Edward, who dyes his beard emerald green and jumps on books in private, is rather unusual too. Until one day she jumps on a book for herself, and uncovers a huge family secret Mayowa can book jump. By jumping on a book, she can harness the emotions inside it and channel them directly into other people. And when the opportunity to use her power to save the lives of countless refugees presents itself, Mayowa wants to jump in with both feet. But Mayowa and her grandpa aren't the only book jumpers in existence. And not everybody wants to use this power for good The first title in a dazzlingly imaginative adventure trilogy about one girl's power to change the world through the magic of book-jumping. Brimming with h

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Book SynopsisTopsy and Tim find fun and adventure in the real world. Their engaging stories are reassuring for young children having first experiences of their own. In Topsy and Tim: Go to Hospital, Tim has fallen out of a tree and bumped his head. He''s a little nervous about going to hospital, but he soon finds out how nice the Doctors and Nurses are, and there are lots of other children on the ward to play with too. The only problem now is making sure Topsy doesn''t feel left out!A trusted and well-loved pair who can help guide parents and children through ''first experiences'', Topsy and Tim books have been beautifully updated with contemporary artwork. Topsy & Tim remain instantly recognisable to parents while in a fresh style that will appeal to a new generation of fans. These wonderful books deserve a place on every child''s bookshelves.

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Book SynopsisFrances Hardinge spent a large part of her childhood in a huge old house that inspired her to write strange stories from an early age. She read English at Oxford University, then got a job at a software company. However, a few years later a persistent friend finally managed to bully Frances into sending a few chapters of Fly By Night, her first children's novel, to a publisher. Macmillan made her an immediate offer. The book went on to publish to huge critical acclaim and win the Branford Boase First Novel Award. She has since written many highly acclaimed children's novels including, Fly By Night's sequel, Twilight Robbery, as well as the Carnegie shortlisted Cuckoo Song and the Costa Book of the Year winner, The Lie Tree.Emily Gravett has a rare talent for creating exceptional books for children. The winner of two CILIP Kate Greenaway Medals, her skill and wit are second to none. Emily first sprang into the limelight with the ground-breaking Wolves, which has been followed by such modern classics as Meerkat Mail, Little Mouse's Big Book of Fears, Monkey and Me and Again! and the fabulous Bear and Hare series for younger readers, as well as the beautiful Tidy, Old Hat, Cyril and Pat and Meerkat Christmas. Each book is unique and different from the last and each features endearing, beautifully drawn characters that touch the heart and tickle the funny bone. Emily lives in Brighton with her family.

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Book SynopsisA beloved fairy tale, retold for young children in classic picture book format. Arriving at Granny's cottage, Little Red Riding Hood can't help but wonder why Grandma has such big eyes, ears and teeth. Could it be something to do with the wolf her mum told her not to talk to on the way?

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Book SynopsisWhen Piglet picks up a stone and drops it into a puddle, something special happens words splash out: Wet, Fresh, Earthy, Sploshing, Sunshiny, Puddle. Piglet is a poet!You're a Poet is a story book with a difference through five uniquely warm and cosy tales, readers can delight in the happy world of Piglet, his family and his friends and, at the same time, learn five brilliantly fun and easy ways to write a poem. Within each story, Sean Taylor shows children how to make a: Puddle Poem, a Comparing Poem, a Make a Person Poem, an If I Was Poem and an I Would Give You Poem. With plenty of poetry-writing tips and tricks after each story, Sean makes this form truly accessible and by the end of the book, even the very smallest of children will be able to confidently call themselves a poet.

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Book SynopsisA New York Times/New York Public Library Best Illustrated Children's Book of 2022 ★ Everyone knows how "Little Red Riding Hood" goes. But Grandpa keeps getting the story all wrong, with hilarious results!"Once upon a time, there was a little girl called Little Yellow Riding Hood—" "Not yellow! It's Red Riding Hood!" So begins the story of a grandpa playfully recounting the well-known fairytale—or his version, at least—to his granddaughter. Try as she might to get him back on track, Grandpa keeps on adding things to the mix, both outlandish and mundane! The end result is an unpredictable tale that comes alive as it's being told, born out of imaginative play and familial affection. This spirited picture book will surprise and delight from start to finish, while reminding readers that storytelling is not only a creative act of improvisation and interaction, but also a powerful pathway for connection and love.Telling Stories Wrong was written by Gianni Rodari, widely regarded as the father of modern Italian children's literature. It exemplifies his great respect for the intelligence of children and the kind of work he did as an educator, developing numerous games and exercises for children to engage and think beyond the status quo, imagining what happens after the end of a familiar story, or what possibilities open up when a new ingredient is introduced. This book is illustrated with great affection by the illustrious artist Beatrice Alemagna (Child of Glass), who counts Gianni Rodari as one of her "spiritual fathers."Trade ReviewA New York Times/New York Public Library Best Illustrated Children's Book of 2022!Selected for the Publishers Weekly 2022 Holiday Gift Guide★ "Rodari’s raucous text is basically a conversation: A grandpa tells the story of 'Little Red Riding Hood' all wrong, giving the heroine a yellow hood, the wrong mission, an encounter with a giraffe and so forth. His granddaughter passionately corrects him while thoroughly enjoying each fresh deviation from the classic tale. Alemagna’s textured, inviting marker drawings provide many punch lines of their own, and the pictures become a joyful celebration of on-the-fly storytelling." —Author Emily Jenkins, judge of the 2022 New York Times/New York Public Library Best Illustrated Children's Book Award“Alemagna’s marker-and wash-textured illustrations, predominantly composed of blobs and circles, materialize into both reality (…Grandpa’s voluminous hair and mustache, the pink-skinned child’s pink dress and gangly braids) and narrative chaos (an entire thought bubble of Riding Hoods with cloaks of various hues), leading up to a grand finale that shows Grandpa at the helm of a city bus filled with characters who have appeared in his woolgathering. When Grandpa returns to his newspaper, and his grandchild heads to the store with a quarter for bubble gum, a final hug makes it clear that they share the same sense of storytelling mischief.” —Publishers Weekly“Here is a humorous story of a grandfather retelling ‘Little Red Riding Hood’ to his granddaughter, and telling it hilariously wrong. The child keeps correcting him, but it doesn’t seem to get him back on track. And why bother? Anyone who reads this book will see that the heart of storytelling with children is not the accurate retelling of plot but rather the connection and creative interaction between adult and child. Alemagna’s well-composed and multilayered mixed-media illustrations cleverly support the transition between the two speakers, as the narrative is related solely through dialogue; thought bubbles amusingly show the very different stories unfolding in each of the character’s heads. Young readers already familiar with ‘Little Red Riding Hood’ may enjoy this story most, but it will be great fun for all, nonetheless.” —The Horn Book“With its combination of the absurd along with its imaginative creativity, Telling Stories Wrong is an excellent entry point for [Gianni Rodari's] writing. Lovingly executed illustrations by award-winning artist Beatrice Alemagna – who considers Rodari a ‘spiritual father’ – enhance the warmth of the story with great humor and a marvelous sense of play." —Nanette McGuinness, The Riveter“Gianni Rodari, described as the father of modern Italian kid lit, gets a makeover here of one of his classic Telephone Tales. In this fractured version of Little Red Riding Hood, a grandpa mixes up all the particulars of the story, much to the delight of his squealing granddaughter... At each stage, the little girl emotes expressively, throwing up her arms and imagining (with squishy thought bubbles) all the right and wrong things about the story, crouching on the floor while Grandpa tries to get back to his newspaper. The star here was the fabulous illustrations, combined with gorgeous book design. Alemagna uses Magic Markers (possibly on dampened paper), which mimic watercolor and their characteristic spread, but allow her to create her own blobby version of pointillism… The large thick pages, with their buff color would make for really standout viewing of the large goofy pictures, like Grandpa and the girl racing off on a large horse (we only see their behinds, including the girl’s underwear!) with the pesky newspaper pages conveniently blowing away.” —Susan Harari, Keefe Library (Boston Latin School, Boston, MA), Youth Services Book Review“We see nutty books all the time. The difference here is that this particular nutty book has a lot of heart and affection between the characters that comes through in spite of (or because of?) the kooky storytelling. It’s an ideal book for a grandparent to read to their own offspring’s offspring. Especially if that kid can’t stand it when grown-ups get facts wrong. Here’s one fact that isn’t wrong: This book is delightful. A win of an import.” —Betsy Bird, A Fuse 8 Production: A School Library Journal Blog“A little girl is listening to her grandfather tell the story of ‘Little Red Riding Hood,’ but he keeps getting important details wrong... The laugh-out-loud developments will tickle readers, but by the time Grandpa finishes his rendition of ‘Little Red,’ the little girl has had enough of his stories and leaves him to his newspaper—likely the clever old man’s plan all along! Fantastic childlike illustrations by Alemagna capture the playful spirit of the story, using simple marker drawings to show all the hilarious ways Grandpa goes off script. Originally published in Rodari’s Italian classic Telephone Tales, this picture book is perfect for reading aloud and for fans of fractured fairy tales.” —Booklist

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Book SynopsisYatora studies hard and gets good grades, and he parties hard, staying out late drinking and watching soccer with his friends. He checks all the boxes he needs to be the perfect high school student. But it all starts to feel empty, and he begins to wonder what part of his life expresses who he is... or even if he has a unique voice at all. Then he wanders into the art room one day, and a lone painting captures his eye, awakening him to a kind of beauty he never knew. Compelled and consumed, he dives in headfirst-and he's about to learn how savage, unforgiving, and exhilirating creating art can be!

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Book SynopsisConnor Sullivan is an All-Star shortstop on his Babe Ruth team, the Orioles. He can hit and field with the best of them, but he''s got one big problem: his temper. When he strikes out or makes an error, he''s a walking Mt. Vesuvius, slamming batting helmets and throwing gloves. His teammates are starting to avoid him, even his best friend Jordy. His coach is ready to kick him off the team.To make matters worse, things aren''t much better at home. His dad is having trouble finding a new job after being laid off. Money is tight. Connor''s dream of attending the prestigious Brooks Robinson Baseball Camp this summer seems like just that now - a dream.When the sports editor of the school paper threatens to do a big story on his tantrums - complete with embarassing photos - Connor realizes he has to clean up his act. But can he do it in time to regain his teammates'' trust and help the Orioles win the championship against the best team in the league?

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Book SynopsisDanny Dingle: menace to his neighbours and threat to their pets is back! When a routine freeze ray demo leads to the death of Mr Nesbit's prize-winning chameleon, Danny and Percy are sent to jiu-jitsu lessons to `learn some discipline' - YAWN! Instead their friendship is tested as never before. Can building the world's greatest killer robot bring them - and the whole class (EVEN twit-faced Gareth Trumpshaw) - together? Part of a four book series full of expressive fonts and comic-style illustrations, Danny Dingle's Fantastic Finds is perfect for reluctant readers and fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid. Aimed at kids aged 7+, there's even more fun when you head to www.sweetcherrypublishing.com to discover online activity packs.Trade ReviewIt is very quirky and a great read for any child who is just becoming confident reading alone.- Jenny Leonard, The Brick Castle

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Book Synopsis“It ought not to be set down as certain that a man must be acceptable to every woman he may happen to like himself.” Taken in by rich relatives, quiet and sensitive Fanny never feels she is a part of the grand surroundings of Mansfield Park. Her cousin, Edmund, is the only person who pays her any attention. But when the sophisticated Crawfords move into the neighbourhood, even Edmund falls under their spell, and Fanny finds herself more alone than ever.

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Book SynopsisAn adapted and illustrated edition of Jane Austen's romantic classic - at an easy-to-read level for all ages! At ten years old, Fanny is sent to live with rich relatives at Mansfield Park. Fanny doesn't fit in there but she is grateful for the friendship of her cousin, Edmund. Years later, the arrival of Henry and Mary Crawford upsets their quiet lives. With even Edmund acting differently, can Fanny stay true to herself? About Jane Austen Children's Stories (Easy Classics) From the gardens of Pemberley to the spooky halls of Northanger Abbey, join some of literature's most iconic heroines on their path to self-discovery and true love. An adaptation of Jane Austen's famous stories, illustrated to introduce children aged 7+ to the classics.

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Book SynopsisSolve the mystery with the Secret Seven - everyone''s favourite detective club! These timeless stories are perfect for young fans of mystery, adventure or detective series. Also available in audiobook! In book three, the Secret Seven have a new meeting place - a treehouse! But someone else is using it too. The gang are furious, but then they learn the intruder is in big trouble and needs their help. Can the Seven come to the rescue?Solve the mystery! Cover and inside illustrations are by the brilliant Tony Ross, illustrator of David Walliams''s books. The story was first published in 1951. This edition features the classic text and comes with a Bonus Blyton section at the back with quizzes, puzzles and other bonus extras! Enid Blyton , The Secret Seven and Enid Blyton''s signature are Registered Trademarks of Hodder and Stoughton Limited. No trademark or copyrighted material may be reproduced without the express written permission of the trad

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Book SynopsisBook 5 in the Magic Animal Cafe series! As Ellie and Blake go back to school, keeping their ability to understand animals a secret is the last of their worries. The local park is about to be destroyed and turned into a leisure centre! Then Harish the heroic badger and his troop arrive to stop the development. While Harish draws up a plan to fight back against the bulldozers, Ellie and Blake struggle to find a safer way to save the park. Maybe it’s finally time to tell Ellie’s mum about their big secret … About the Magic Animal Cafe series: Join Ellie and Blake as they start new lives in a new town and a mysterious old building. They've only just met, but already they share a magical secret: they can talk to animals! That could prove useful with Ellie's mum opening a cat café, but the café is under threat from a greedy property developer – unless Ellie and Blake can stop him. With engaging illustrations and quirky talking animals, Magic Animal Café is perfect for animal lovers and young readers aged 7+.

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Book SynopsisMeet Jay. Summer. And Dylan. Jay plays guitar, writes songs and dreams of being a rock star. But his ambitions are stifled by seven siblings and a terrible drummer. Summer works hard at school, looks after her nan and has a one-in-a-million singing voice. But can her talent triumph over her nerves?Dylan is happiest lying on his bunk smoking, but his school rugby coach has other ideas, and Dylan reluctantly joins a band to avoid crunching tackles and icy mud.They''re about to enter the biggest battle of their lives. And there''s everything to play for. A spectacular start to the new series from Robert Muchamore, bestselling author of CHERUB - read on with Rock War: The Audition, a story especially written for World Book Day.Trade ReviewA new series for teenagers and it's a sure-fire winner: daring, pacy and authentic. Muchamore is second to none when it comes to getting inside teenagers' heads and Rock War is a rollercoaster read, full of breathtaking twists and turns. * Daily Express *Bursting with drama. * The Daily Telegraph *Best known for his thrilling CHERUB teen-spy novels, this first in a new series about budding rock stars arrives with high expectations... a gritty, uncompromising read... there's plenty of potential here... turn the volume up to 11. * The Daily Mail *A belter. * The Financial Times *A pacy and enjoyable read. * The Daily Telegraph *Muchamore's great skill is in painting young characters that feel real with a broad brushstroke so that readers are able to transpose their lives and concerns onto them... Muchamore explores this hinterland with fluid ease and skill... a strong start for a promising new series. * * * * * Books for Keeps *There is so much more to this fast, exciting novel for today's teenagers than just a story about kids forming rock bands... a pacy, hard-hitting novel for today. * School Librarian *Headbangingly brilliant. -- Janette Wolf * The Independent *A must-read for teens who dream of musical stardom. The perfect way to get reluctant readers hooked on real-world exciting books * The School Run *A new series for teenagers and it's a sure-fire winner: daring, pacy and authentic. Muchamore is second to none when it comes to getting inside teenagers' heads and Rock War is a rollercoaster read, full of breathtaking twists and turns. * Daily Express *Bursting with drama. * The Daily Telegraph *Best known for his thrilling CHERUB teen-spy novels, this first in a new series about budding rock stars arrives with high expectations... a gritty, uncompromising read... there's plenty of potential here... turn the volume up to 11. * The Daily Mail *A belter. * The Financial Times *A pacy and enjoyable read. * The Daily Telegraph *Muchamore's great skill is in painting young characters that feel real with a broad brushstroke so that readers are able to transpose their lives and concerns onto them... Muchamore explores this hinterland with fluid ease and skill... a strong start for a promising new series. * * * * * Books for Keeps *There is so much more to this fast, exciting novel for today's teenagers than just a story about kids forming rock bands... a pacy, hard-hitting novel for today. * School Librarian *Headbangingly brilliant. -- Janette Wolf * The Independent *

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Book SynopsisShe was Queen of Scotland and of France, and a possible Queen of England; she was involved in a series of mysterious deaths; in the end she lost her head... But what was life really like for Mary, Queen of Scots?Put on your ruff and step into the sixteenth century for a unique glimpse into the dramatic life of the infamous queen. Mary's story is told from the perspective of her young servant Alec. Each easy-to-read chapter mixes the involving story of the queen's life with timelines, charts and revealing illustrations to create a Fact-tastic account that is both educational and emotionally engaging for younger readers.Take a journey through time and find out:-- Why did Mary become Queen of Scots when she was just six days old?-- What exotic animals lived with the young queen?-- How did Mary escape from Lochleven Castle?-- Why did Mary's cousin, Queen Elizabeth I, arrange her beheading?The Amazing Life of Mary, Queen of Scots continues the brilliant Fact-tastic series, which blends intriguing facts and fascinating fiction to bring the most exciting, gruesome and crucial moments of Scottish history alive for young readers.

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Book SynopsisJoin one tiny bird on a hilarious adventure to save his sister - and his country!An action-packed tale of courage, adventure and a smattering of bird poo, from the bestselling children''s author of Toto the Ninja Cat, Dermot O''Leary, with glorious illustrations throughout by Claire Powell.Full of adventure and heart - Cressida Cowell, bestselling author of HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGONMagnificent fun - David Walliams, bestselling author of CODE NAME BANANASRoyal Bird Force recruit Linus can''t wait for his big adventure. He''s out to prove that swifts can be just a brave as falcons, with a combination of teamwork, talons and of course poo!But with his sister missing and rumours of a spy amongst their ranks, can Linus become the hero he dreams of?Featuring courageous loop-the-loops, top-secret plans and a smattering of bird poo, this heroic tail will keep yo

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Book SynopsisBilal is terrified of The Test. He can't answer any of the questions! But then Bumble the bee comes along, and he can answer any question you ask, even the really tricky ones. Then Bilal's granny suggests they go on the wildly popular TV quiz show, What's What? Win the Lot! But what will happen if Bilal and Bumble do win the lot...? A wonderfully bonkers and laugh-out loud funny story from dream team Rosen and Ross.Trade Review"Perfect for imaginative readers everywhere" * Guardian, The Best New Children's Books *"Funny, sly and gloriously accompanied by Tony Ross' instantly recognisable bold illustrations" * BookTrust *"Appealing fiction for new readers" -- Fiona Noble * The Bookseller *"Rosen is on his usual hilarious good form." * Glasgow Herald *"Pure Michael Rosen: hilarious and playful" * The School Librarian *

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Book SynopsisWhat if the darkest curse was your greatest power?Born during the blood moon and cursed with the dangerous ability to manipulate other people's souls, Priya has to hide her power or face death.But when Priya wins a place to attend the country's elite military academy in Kuwatta, her curse is revealed to be a gift and everything changes. With a centuries old war still raging and strange dangers lurking, Priya must decide how much she is willing to sacrifice for her people and her country. An electrifying and gripping story of belonging and survival.'But Awaran was all she knew. The only land whose earth she had trodden, whose air she had breathed and whose water she had tasted. Awaran was the land that had given her life, the land she fought for. She knew nothing else. Why, then, did she still feel like a traveller without a destination?'

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Book SynopsisSome feelings are so big, they''re hard to express. . . A dyslexia-friendly, beautifully illustrated verse story of friendship, family and self-discovery, perfect for readers aged 9+. By the author of Wider Than the Sea, winner of the Eilís Dillon Award, KPMG Children''s Books Ireland Awards 2024A beautifully told story of resilience Irish TimesWith an uplifting ending, Kai''s story will remain in your mind for a long time ... a fantastic read for a class group Editor''s Choice, Children''s Books Ireland, Inis Magazine When Kai''s big sister Jen leaves the family home, Kai knows it''s all his fault. His secret burns, but he tells no one, just keeps pulling at tufts of his hair. But in the broad branches of a wasteland sycamore tree, Kai feels safe and free from his worries. Up there he feels he can be whoever he wants to be. And when a girl called Sky starts climbing Kai''s tr

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Book SynopsisOtherland is a dangerous magical underworld - a place where appearances can be deceiving and anything can happen. A world of gods, vampires, and fairies. It's also... horrible.When life-long friends Myra and Rohan discover that Rohan's baby sister Shilpa has been stolen and taken to Otherland, the only way to rescue her is by taking part in a deadly game - three impossible challenges set by the Fairy Queen of Otherland. Win the game, and Rohan and Myra can go home with Shilpa - but lose, and they'll be trapped in Otherland forever...A darkly funny, action-packed fantasy adventure, perfect for fans of The Strangeworlds Travel Agency, Malamander, and The Land of Roar, from the author of the highly-acclaimed Dragon in the Library series.

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