Children & Teen Fiction Books

Book Synopsis''A thoughtful, profound, important book'' Irish Independent''A realistic but hopeful look at two children''s emigration'' Publishers WeeklyPowerful and timely, To The Other Side explores the journey of two young refugee children in search of safety. Perfect for opening up conversations about conflict and war, encouraging empathy and understanding.A young boy and his older sister have left home to play a game. To win, she tells him, they must travel across endless lands together and make it to the finish line.Each child imagines what might be waiting for them across the border: A spotted dog? Ice cream! Or maybe a new school. But the journey is difficult, and the monsters are more real than they imagined.And when it no longer feels like a game, the two children must still find a way to forge ahead, and reach the other side.A stunning, symbolic and emotionally rich picture book about the spirit and streTrade ReviewOne of the best picture books I've read in recent memory. Astounding. -- Steve Antony, creator of Mr PandaA thoughtful, profound, important book * Irish Independent *The perfect starting point to open up conversations about love and war * Belfast Telegraph *This book is beautiful. Beautifully illustrated. Beautifully told. -- Jarvis, creator of The Boy with Flowers in His HairI cannot recommend it enough - it is an incredible book -- Mark Bradley, creator of Bumble and SnugThe palette, the characters, the compositions, the message and author's note are simply impeccable -- Steven LentonThis perceptive and exquisitely illustrated picture book will leave its readers questioning the complex reality of child migrationA gorgeously rendered, heartbreaking look at one family's. migration experience * Kirkus Reviews *Powerful . . . a realistic but hopeful look at two children's emigration * Publishers Weekly *A powerful and moving story.

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Book SynopsisA laugh-out-loud story about fighting for your right to steal the show, from the much-loved author of the My Best Friend and Other Enemies series.Amy Miller is a very positive person and she is fully prepared to be the star of the school Comedy Show. But when Harry is put in charge, he stops her from performing or writing or doing anything fun.Amy can't understand what's happening until her sister tells her: Harry is being sexist, and Amy must take a stand. Armed only with killer one-liners, Amy goes into battle to fight for her right to make people laugh.A brilliantly funny new story from Catherine Wilkins, stand-up comedian, podcaster and author of When Good Geeks Go Bad, The Weird Friends Fan Club and the My Best Friend and Other Enemies series.

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Book SynopsisStaying with her grandparents in the Scottish Highlands, Lara is fascinated by the rare white snowy owl her grandad has spotted flying nearby. And when she follows the beautiful bird into the woods, it leads her on a magical adventure… Transported a century back in time, Lara befriends Amelia, who confides in Lara about her cruel cousin, who she’s sure is trying to hurt the baby owls nesting in the woods. When Lara discovers the hatchlings belong to her owl, Sky, she’s determined to help. But how can she protect them when she needs to return to her own time? An enchanting and magical time-slip adventure from best-selling author Holly Webb. For fans of Michael Morpurgo and

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Book SynopsisBack to the Future meets To All the Boys in this thrilling new YA time-travel romance by award-winning author Maurene Goo. Samantha Kang has always butted heads with her mom, Priscilla, who is a first-generation Korean American, a former high school cheerleader and expects Sam to want the same all-American nightmare. Meanwhile, Sam is a girl of the times who has no energy for clichéd high school aspirations. After a huge fight, Sam is desperate to get away from Priscilla, but instead, finds herself thrown back. Way back. To her shock, Sam lands in the ''90s . . . alongside a 17-year-old Priscilla. Now, Sam has to deal with outdated tech, regressive ''90s attitudes, and a time-crossed romance with the right guy in the wrong era.With the clock ticking, Sam must figure out how to fix things with Priscilla or risk being trapped in an analog world forever. Sam''s blast to the past has her questioning everything she thought she knew abouTrade ReviewWith all the humor and heart that are Maurene Goo's specialty, Throwback is the fresh, funny, yet profoundly thoughtful time travel story you didn't know you needed-but trust me, you definitely do. An absolutely delightful book * Veronica Roth, New York Times bestselling author of Divergent and Chosen Ones *Throwback is one of those rare books that manages to unearth deep truths with the lightest of touches. It's funny and big-hearted, romantic, and delightfully unexpected in the best way. It was a true pleasure to read * Nicola Yoon, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Instructions for Dancing *I absolutely adored Throwback! It's fun and laugh-out-loud funny-but with a message that resonates and characters I couldn't stop thinking about. A tour de force from Maurene Goo, and a book I know I'll be returning to again and again * Morgan Matson, New York Times bestselling author of Save the Date and Take Me Home Tonight *No one can blend family, humor, satire, and love into a single perfect story like Maurene Goo can. I inhaled this book in a single sitting, lost in the magic of this tale of mothers and daughters and the weight of generational divides. I laughed, I sobbed, and now I want to hand this book to everyone I know * Marie Lu, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Skyhunter *With a hauntingly hilarious premise-getting flung back in time to be besties with your mean girl mom in high school-Throwback is bright, warm and wholly engrossing. Brimming with breezy dialogue and wry fashion observations, Maurene Goo has rendered a captivating jaunt through the mid-nineties, complete with casual racism and vintage identity politics. Slyly provocative, compulsively readable, with an absolutely tantalizing twist, Throwback is a striking, heartfelt addition to the time-travel canon. I want to hang out with the Korean women in this family * Mary H.K. Choi, New York Times bestselling author *Throwback is as fun and feel-good as your favorite '90s teen flick but wrapped up in a beautifully written and poignant story of mothers, daughters, the immigrant experience, and the 'American dream.' Maurene Goo writes with heart, humor, tenderness and an unabashed optimism that will remind readers what's worth believing in-and the importance of being true to yourself. No other author out there is doing it like Maurene, and Throwback is her best yet. An absolute triumph by an unparalleled talent * Courtney Summers, New York Times bestselling author of I'm the Girl and Sadie *Inventive, fun and fresh, Throwback explores the mysteries of destiny, identity, and more than one kind of love * Rebecca Stead, Newbery Award medalist and bestselling author of When You Reach Me *

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Book SynopsisBursting with color and charm, this finger puppet book lets inquisitive babies and toddlers touch, feel, and explore their growing world. Newborns will love snuggling up with Baby Pony! Baby Pony grazes, frolics, and curls up to rest in the stable when it's time for bed. Featuring a plush finger puppet that peeks into each lovingly illustrated page, this addition to the bestselling Finger Puppet series offers parents and children a fun, interactive way to play and read as they build a lifelong love of books together.

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Book Synopsis''Entirely irresistible ... You won''t be able to look away'' Chloe Gong, No.1 New York Times bestselling author of These Violent Delights''A completely original, deliciously dark take on vampires'' Sarah Underwood, New York Times bestselling author of Lies We Sing to the Sea''A deliciously dark story teeming with morally grey characters you can''t help but root for'' Gabi Burton, author of Sunday Times bestselling Sing Me to SleepSink your teeth into the highly anticipated Black vampire romantasy title of 2024!Hidden in our world, a society of vampires originating in Africa, can only feed from select human bloodlines. Each bloodline represents a House more cutthroat than the next. To ensure peaceful co-existence and inherit their legacy, human children of these families must study at an elite university before choosing a vampire companion. Lost Heiress, Kidan Adane grew up f

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Book SynopsisEnjoy Every Cherry's new adaptation of Easier Classics'A Christmas Carolfeaturing a range of accessibility features to bring this story to as many people as possible.

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Book SynopsisMagical adventures in a forest full of fairies with everyone's favourite human-fairy best friend team, Lola and Larch, for fans of Rainbow Magic and Isadora Moon. Euphorbia Spurge has sent bad magic across the forest and it's turning all the plants wild!

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Book SynopsisThe Famous Five told as a graphic novel for the first time ever. Ideal for anyone who loves Enid Blyton, Tintin or Asterix.Brilliantly retold with all the fun, danger and excitement of the original books, in a fast-paced format for fans old and new. This superb new edition will capture the imagination of readers of any age. This superb new edition will capture the imagination of readers of any age.Julian, Dick, Anne, George and Timmy the dog are staying with their friends at Smuggler''s Top. But adventure follows the Famous Five everywhere they go, and they soon find secret tunnels and hiding places and see someone sending mysterious signals out to sea . . . Could there still be smugglers here?

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Book SynopsisSHORTLISTED FOR THE BRANFORD BOASE AWARD NOMINATED FOR THE 2022 CILIP CARNEGIE MEDAL Set in the 17th century, a breathtaking debut, and a potential prize-winner, about the power of women, witchcraft, fury, revenge and the ties that bind us. After witnessing the brutal murder of her mother by witch-hunters, Evey vows to avenge her and track down the killers. Fury burns in her bright and strong. But she has promised her mother that she will keep Dill, her little sister, safe. As the lust for blood and retribution rises to fever pitch, will Evey keep true to the bonds of sisterhood and to the magick that is her destiny? Praise for Witch: 'A story that captures sibling rivalry so perfectly and tells its tale so beautifully I didn't want it to finish' JASBINDER BILAN 'Raw, mystical and beautifully told. A striking debut' KIRSTY APPLEBAUM 'An assured debut of sisterhood and fury' THE BOOKSELLER 'A book filled with enchantment, in every sense. Dark, exciting and pacy, Witch brilliantly balances magic and realism' ANTHONY MCGOWAN, author of Carnegie-winning LARK 'There is real magic here, though what leaps off the page is the creepy atmosphere and the raw emotion of a grieving, raging girl... Perfect reading for a dark, stormy night' IRISH TIMES WEEKENDTrade ReviewEvey is a marvellous, complex, flawed heroine... Hawkins is a master of raising and re-raising the stakes... The tale builds to a climax of incredible, cinematic imagery... A fantastic first outing' -- Cory Doctorow, author of Surface AttackRaw, mystical and beautifully told, Witch is the story of a young woman's self-discovery in a hostile world. A striking debut -- Kirsty Applebaum, author of Waterstone's shortlisted The MiddlerWitch is a rare thing, a book both brilliant and original, as strange and dark as it is beautiful. A tale of revenge set in war-ravaged landscape, ruled by fear and superstition; of redemption and love between two sisters; of the corrupting power of 'Magick.' All this. And more besides -- Chris Vick, author of CILIP Carnegie-shortlisted Girl Boy SeaI couldn't stop reading this 5-star story for teens, full of witchcraft, revenge and the power of women -- Mel Darbon, author of Rosie Loves Jack.Bold, original, powerful story-telling. This story of fierce love, anger and revenge, war and witch hunts, is tense and bloody and compelling -- Julia Green, author of The House of LightI felt its dark jewelled cloak fall about my shoulders and magic me to the time of witch-craft. A story that captures sibling rivalry so perfectly and tells its tale so beautifully I didn't want it to finish -- Jasbinder Bilan, author of the Costa-winning Asha and the Spirit BirdAn assured debut of sisterhood and fury * The Bookseller *Dark, spooky, and with beautiful lyrical prose, this is the ideal book to curl up with as the nights get darker and colder in the run up to Halloween * BookTrust *A book filled with enchantment, in every sense. Dark, exciting and pacy, Witch brilliantly balances magic and realism -- Anthony McGowan, author of CILIP Carnegie Medal winner LarkThere is real magic here, though what leaps off the page is the creepy atmosphere and the raw emotion of a grieving, raging girl... Perfect reading for a dark, stormy night' * Irish Times Weekend *I loved it. I loved how atmospheric it was, I loved the fierce loyalty of Evey and Dill, I loved how I could smell the weather on every page -- Emma Kennedy, author of the Wilma Tenderfoot seriesA gobble-it-up fiery and intense yet thoughtful debut novel about family, betrayal, and witchcraft. Opening the pathway to a fabulous historical fantasy series this calls out as a must-read for young adults... Witch is a read that fair on crackles with energy, it also encourages thoughts to both consider and soar' * LoveReading *No avid reader who is old enough should miss this wonderful writing from a debut writer. When the power of language and the power of story meld so thrillingly together, they make something very special, and important – witching magic -- Magic Fiction Since PotterFrom the first page, my heart was hooked by this dark and twisty tale of old magic, love and revenge. The story thunders like a force of nature -- Julie Pike, author of The Last Spell BreatherWitch grips you in its spell from first page to last. It's a stunningly written story of loss and love, of eerie magic, high adventure, and the ties that keep us strong in darkness and bring us safely home. As fierce, beautiful and thrilling as a bird of prey in flight -- Jonathan Stroud, author of the Lockwood & Co. seriesBe enchanted by this dark, wintery and lyrical story. A powerful debut that will leave you gasping for the breath that you have held whilst reading it! A book packed with history, witchcraft, power and love * Armadillo *Hawkins' descriptive power is considerable * Financial Times *[An] adventure story where good triumphs over evil. The more perceptive and mature reader may well see echoes of the battle between patriarchy and the traditional ways of healing which were mostly the domain of trusted womenfolk. The lyrical prose and the attempt at an appropriate historical idiom are attractive * The School Librarian *Finbar Hawkins's debut novel is notionally a young adult title, but grown-ups will find it darkly satisfying – a brilliantly paced and compellingly atmospheric story of society's need to find victims, how fear spawns mania and how the 'other' is persecuted. Should sound familiar in 2020 * Time Out *Civil war rages and witches have become pawns in a plot to oust the king. When her mother is killed by a mob Evey vows to avenge her in this assured debut of sisterhood and fury, well reviewed in hardback -- Fiona Noble, The Bookseller

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Book SynopsisMeet the cat who went to see the Queen, the bird who loves shiny things and the fish that found a lost ring. This collection of short stories by Enid Blyton is filled with exciting animals ready for adventure! Will you join them?These traditional tales are ideal for younger children being read to and for newly confident readers to read alone. Each story stands alone and is the perfect length for reading at bedtime or in the classroom.Enid Blyton remains one of Britain''s favourite children''s authors and her bumper short story collections are perfect for introducing her to the latest generation of readers.Read all of Enid Blyton''s bumper short story collections. New in 2025:Sleepytime StoriesFive-Minute Magic StoriesChristmas Bedtime Stories***Enid Blyton and Enid Blyton''s signature are registered trade marks of Hodder & Stoughton Limited. No trade mark or copyrighted material may be reproduced without the

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Book SynopsisA funny, wise and heartwarming story, with a truly one-of-a-kind hero, from the author of the highly-acclaimed I, Cosmo and My Life as a Cat.<i>I am an optimist. A very difficult thing to be, sometimes, at three inches tall.i>Clementine is a genius. She can calculate pi to 69,689 places, remembers the exact moment she was born, and dreams in Latin.She's also a mouse.And when she escapes from the lab which has bred her, Clementine discovers that it's not enough to be the smartest mouse in history if she wants to survive in the real world - especially while the scientists who kept her are trying to recover their prize specimen. So, together with her new human friends, Clementine must find a way to earn her freedom - for good.With beautiful writing and a truly wonderful hero who you'll fall in love with from the first page, Always, Clementine is perfect for fans of Stuart Little, Charlotte's Web, Flora and Ulysses, and The Queen's Gambit.

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Book SynopsisAt Zoe's Rescue Zoo only the cutest, cuddliest animals need apply! Zoe loves living at her uncle's rescue zoo because there's always something exciting going on. And Zoe also has an amazing secret... She can actually TALK to the animals!Rocco the raccoon has just arrived at the zoo and he loves to play pranks! Inspired by the rascally animal, Zoe and her friend decide to play their own. But when a prank goes too far, Zoe will need Rocco's help to make things right.Another fantastic title in the perfect series for young animal lovers, beautifully illustrated throughout by Sophy Williams.Have you read Zoe's other adventures? Check out The Adventurous Arctic Fox, The Runaway Reindeer, The Talkative Tiger and many more titles!

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Book SynopsisGrandpa Sloth Needs Help offers a gentle introduction to the experience of an older relative moving to a care home for young children.This gentle, charming story is the perfect way to introduce young children to the experience of an older relative moving to a care setting. Also included are suggestions for activities and ideas to talk through together to help children reflect on their own experiences.Grandpa Sloth loves cooking and his garden, but as he gets older, he finds it hard to manage. Sloth is worried when Grandpa moves to a care home, but he soon finds that Grandpa can still enjoy all the things he used to - with some help!The Experiences Matter series of picture books provide a gentle means of discussing experiences, boosting self-esteem and reinforcing good behaviour. Supports the Personal, Social and Emotional Development Area of Learning in the Early Years Foundation Stage, and is also suitable for use with children in KS1 and can be used to discuss values. Suitable for children under 5.

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Book SynopsisA hilarious and anarchic collection of classic bedtime stories for young readers, all utterly updated for a new generation - now in paperback format. Meet Trumplestiltskin, a vain and gold-obsessed little man who will stop at nothing to become richer and richer. There's Sleeping Brainy, the princess whose only dream is to become Chancellor of the Exchequer, and the Gingerbread Kid, who escapes persecution in his home country but struggles to fit in in his new one. You won't forget the lingering stench of Mouldysocks - a boy obsessed with staring at his iPad but rather less obsessed with personal hygiene - and you'll be rooting for Rap-Unzel when she gets the chance of fame by appearing on Kingdom's Got Talent . . . but at what cost?Packed with stories about boys who aren't afraid to cry and rhymes about girls who refuse to kiss frogs, FEARLESS FAIRY TALES shakes up dusty, old-fashioned (and, to be honest, rather sexist) bedtime stories and totally reinvents them for the twenty-first century. From fake news to female footballers, environmental pollution to equal pay, nothing is off limits in this anthology of laugh-out-loud fairy tales with thoroughly modern morals.Told in the fresh, vibrant and unique voice of Blue Peter favourite Konnie Huq, writing with James Kay, and packed full of irresistible illustrations by Rikin Parekh, FEARLESS FAIRY TALES is the perfect gift for young readers (and older readers fed up with serving their kids the same old boring bedtime stories).

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Book SynopsisThere's harmony in the air when the animals get together to make music and put on a concert with a difference!Koala's playing his flute, Badger's bashing away on the drums and Squirrel's strumming on the guitar. Even the smallest toddler will enjoy the wonderfully silly animal antics in this book, so join in and sing and dance along -you've never been to a gig like it! Trademark Julia Donaldson rhymes and rhythms accompanied by Nick Sharratt's mischievous and funny illustrations make this bright and playful book a sure winner.Animal Music is perfect for reading out loud!Trade ReviewA joyous celebration of music. * Parents In Touch *

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Book SynopsisA courageous, heart-warming book about death that has become a cornerstone of the Gecko Press catalogue worldwide In a strangely heart-warming and beautifully illustrated story, a duck strikes up an unlikely friendship with Death. Duck, Death and the Tulip will intrigue, haunt, and enchant readers of all ages. Simple, warm, and witty, this book deals with a difficult subject in a way that is elegant and life-affirming.Trade Review"The most extraordinary picture book I’ve seen in many a year. A duck becomes friends with Death, and it’s the most natural thing in the world. Trust me, adults get far more weirded out by this book than children ever do. Amazing." -- Patrick Ness, Time Out London"The gold standard of picture books about death is “Duck, Death and the Tulip….” It’s hard to describe how this extraordinarily tender book manages to be both heartbreaking and comforting, but it does." -- New York Times (US)"The most moving book I’ve read this year is the German picture book Duck, Death and The Tulip by Wolf Erlbruch, about the strange, uneasy friendship." -- Meg Rosoff, The Financial Times US)Duck, Death and the Tulip by Wolf Erlbruch is a superb picture book from Germany, that tells a gentle story of the relationship between Death and a duck. Death is portrayed as a sympathetic figure in a dressing gown who is with us all the time, but who only comes into Duck’s consciousness towards the end of his life. It is warm, poignant and witty. -- Anthony Browne * The Guardian *The German children's book author and illustrator Wolf Erlbruch offers a wonderfully warm and assuring answer in Duck, Death and the Tulip - a marvelous addition to the handful of intelligent and imaginative children's books about death and loss. -- Maria Popova * Brainpickings *"a deft look at mortality." -- Literary Hub

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Book SynopsisGazing at the stars from five storeys up, smelling the bins from five storeys below. Overheard arguments, overheard laughter. A disappearing father and a Mermaid-Queen mother; statues that sing for flesh and blood; bullies who kick you under the table; perfect red trainers – and the things that lurk in the library…. Award-winning poet Joseph Coelho’s astonishing new collection is a powerful and moving poetic narrative about growing up in the city.Trade Review"A collection that will excite, intrigue and stretch teenagers and that offers a lot of scope for classroom discussion." * IBBY Link *"This slim volume of more than four dozen poems of varying lengths charts the narrator's course from childhood in low-income urban housing to adolescence to young adulthood and fatherhood.The unnamed narrator personifies the unforgiving public-housing tower block as a "zombie" hungry for human lives and memories. He dodges a bully in "Smashing Snails in the Rain" and overhears an "Argument": "The monster / With a roar made up of shouts," whose "jaws snap / Like slamming doors," and whose "claws clatter / Like kitchen drawers." His father gives him the perfect pair of red sneakers in "Trainers." These shoes return many times across the collection, acting as a possible symbol of the boy's hero worship of his often absent father. As the boy enters his teens, he goes from confident to awkward to embracing the changes his body experiences in "Man…I Had It Made." In later poems, he has his first kiss, gets exam results, and leaves home for the first time. He becomes a father, "whose heart thumps solely for his / daughter." Poetic forms vary, with some rhyming and others not. Readers may have difficulty understanding the trilogy of sophisticated poems based on the myth of Prometheus. Race is not mentioned, and the flat, unemotional black-and-white sketches provide few clues.It may take readers a few rounds to fully appreciate and understand the loose, unassumingly sophisticated narrative that joins the poems." * Kirkus Reviews *"Rich with metaphor and secret meaning, his poetry is deeply welcoming, and his sensibility is both mythic and urban." -- Imogen Russell Williams * Guardian - Fresh Voices: 50 Writers You Should Read Now *"A very clever and poetic mood [is] conveyed by these pages." * BookBag *"Joseph Coelho is a notable newcomer, touching on subjects ranging from the hungry mouth of a communal chute bin, devouring the disappointments of its residents, to mythical transgressions." -- Imogen Russell Williams * Times Literary Supplement *"[The author] has surpassed himself with this breathtaking collection of poems for older children. Kate Milner's black and white illustrations perfectly enhance the narrative. This collection will stay with you always." * CLPE Books of the Year *"A stunning – and stunningly illustrated by Kate Milner – poetry collection. You can dip in and out of it (‘City Kids’ is my current favourite) but there is also a narrative vein running through it. It is powerful and atmospheric, and has true ‘crossover’ appeal." -- Clare Pearson * Achuka Best Books of the Year *"Ambitious in theme, the everyday experiences of an urban childhood are made extraordinary here through astute observation and dexterity of word play...Each poem offers a childlike vantage point, but collated together there are profound comments about the nature of late childhood, its shift towards adulthood, responsibility and the continuing role it exerts in determining and defining our lives. -- Jake Hope * Achuka Best Books of the Year *"Finally, something slightly different. I think publishers and bookshops are missing a trick with poetry. They seem to stock poetry collections for younger children and adult poetry from the historical to the contemporary. Where is the poetry for young adults? Beyond the bookshops, there is a dynamic and diverse spoken word scene, young people articulating their lives and experiences through rhythm, rhyme, lyricism. These are poems about childhood belonging, separated families and the stories we build when there are gaps we can’t know. My teenage daughter and I have read them together. " -- Patrice Lawrence's Top 5 Young Adult Reads of 2017 * Waterstones *"Children’s poetry is booming and Joseph Coelho’s Overheard in a Tower Block skilfully describes deeply felt experiences and personal observations so that we can all share the emotions." * Books for Keeps Book of the Year *"A wonderful collection of poems." * Carousel *"Growing up on an urban estate in a tower block is not a comfortable experience. Joseph Coelho’s poems are not comfortable. They are sharp, disconcerting, intelligent. They are also quite often humorous. They pinpoint experiences, emotions, the immediate, as he charts living in this world. Running through all the poems is a young boy’s sense of dislocation in a fractured family. There are recollections of school, of friendships, of holidays, of a first kiss. These are poems to explore, to discover and to savour because they will not always reveal their secrets immediately – but they are well worth it. The experience is enhanced by Kate Milner’s clever vignettes that mirror the awkwardness, the curiosity and vigour of the boy. Congratulations to Otter-Barry Books for bringing us this collection." * Books for Keeps Editor's Choice & 5 Star Review *"Every poem in this anthology gives the reader pause for thought: whether it's an idea to contemplate; an image that lingers or word play that delights, Coelho's touch is totally assured." * Reading Zone 5 star review *"Joseph Coelho brings the city to life through the eyes of a child in his moving collection of poems. The poems deal sensitively with a range of themes, from broken families and bullying to the power of stories to take you beyond the city to another world. An accessible and relevant book of poems to accompany children as they grow up." * Scotsman *"Recounting the childhood of a child living in a city tower block, many of these poems are sad or angry and bristle with an edginess that young teens may find refreshing when compared to other poetry aimed at them. The content is current, personal, moving and needs saying." * Book Trust Best Books for August *"Ingenious...Kate Milner's extraordinary line drawings express the underlying strangeness." * Sunday Times Children's Book of the Week *"Award-winning poet Joseph Coelho's astonishing new collection is a powerful and moving poetic narrative about growing up in the city, excellently set off by Kate Milner's black and white drawings which capture the spirit of the poetry." * Parents in Touch *"Joseph's verses, illustrated beautifully by Kate Milner, really capture how your childhood imagination adapts and fits itself around your (sometimes grim) surroundings. A superb slice of urban life, depicted from many different points of view." * Read It, Daddy *"So rich...so many lines that make you pause and stop...so powerful...took my breath away." * Down the Rabbit Hole *"An exciting and edgy collection - contemporary poems of family, friendship and school laced with myth and magic." -- Fiona Noble * The Bookseller *

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Book SynopsisIf you were stranded on a desert island, what would you do? Young readers can read and imagine in this unabridged paperback edition of The Swiss Family Robinson. After their ship crashes onto a deserted island, the Robinson family begins a castaway life of adventure, scientific exploration, and the primal instinct to survive. As the years pass, the family begins to wonder: do they want to be rescued and return to civilization, or continue their island life forever? This high-action novelavailable in its unabridged entiretyis perfect for young readers' libraries.

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Book SynopsisIndigo McCloud’s sister Peaches is every adult's favourite child: pretty, golden-haired, polite and charming. But the children of Blunt know better: Peaches and her sisters are a gang of bullies who will stop at nothing to get their way. This is the story of Indigo’s battle to stop his sisters. Leaping across the rooftops of Blunt, he tries to keep one step ahead of their wicked schemes –but he has to tangle with 437 hungry geese, an avalanche of toilets, curry farts, bungling policemen, vicious eels, a pig in a witch's hat, a three legged spider with a toilet brush and a dangerous villain in odd socks … Trade Review‘An exciting and original debut.’ -- Sara Keating * The Irish Times *'Writing a dystopian world that is laugh-out-loud funny is no mean feat, but to create such an environment for young readers is nothing short of extraordinary.’ * Children's Books Ireland *'Hilarity and heart center this quirky story about a young hero quietly taking a stand.' * Kirkus Reviews *'A raucous read with notably Roald Dahl–leaning social sensibilities.' * Publishers Weekly *'This Irish import will please children who want an over-the-top bully book jam-packed with adventure. This novel is wacky, awesome, and terrifying.' * School Library Journal *'Descriptive and quirky, this is a jam-packed chapter book that fans of David Walliams’ books would enjoy.' * LoveReading4Kids *"A sure hit for readers who like nothing more than the sort of outrageous adventure that only a wild imagination can deliver. Perfect for the reader on the verge of becoming addicted to reading for life!" * School Library Connection *‘Missing Roald Dahl? Need a book where bad kids are just bad and they get their comeuppance? This is the book for you. John has written a fabulously funny, dark, clever novel.’ -- Read and Reviewed'Quirky, humourously sinister and thoroughly entertaining.' -- Mary Esther Judy * Fallen Star Stories *'What a delightfully twisted book! The story is unpredictable and keeps the readers at the edge of their seats. It oddly reminds me of a Tim Burton movie, dark, but Indigo is rather lovable unlike the rest of his family.' * NetGalley Reviewer *

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Book SynopsisA beautifully packaged collector’s set featuring three celebrated children’s classics: Anne of Green Gables, Heidi, and The Secret Garden. This special collection explores themes of love, family, friendship, and coming-of-age through the eyes of three of literature’s most beloved heroines: Anne Shirley, Heidi, and Mary Lennox. 

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Book Synopsis A stunning edition of Kevin Brooks' celebrated novel - a truly original, powerful and emotional story from the author of The Bunker Diary. 'It gets to you ... you want to tell everyone how good it is.' SUNDAY TIMES 'A particularly moving and unusual love story.' GUARDIAN 'A gripping story' FINANCIAL TIMES Caitlin's life changes from the moment she sees Lucas walking across the causeway one hot summer's day. He is the strangest, most beautiful boy she has ever seen - and when she meets him, her world comes alive. But to others, he quickly becomes an object of jealousy, prejudice and hatred. Caitlin tries to make sense of the injustice that lurks at every unexpected twist and turn, until she realises that she must do what she knows in her heart is right. A striking reissue of the powerful, emotive novel from Carnegie Medal-winning author Kevin Brooks, author of The Bunker Diary. One of a number of iconic Chicken House bestsellers to be reissued for Chicken House's 20th anniversary celebrations.

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Book SynopsisDuring a violent thunderstorm, a strange fortune-telling soothsayer turns up in the Gaulish village, drawing Asterix''s friends into his web of enticing deception. In the midst of general confusion, Asterix is unable to convince his fellow villagers of the soothsayer''s deceit - whose warnings of foreboding are sure to rip the Gaulish village apart.

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Book SynopsisFrom USA Today bestselling author Leia Stone comes the thrilling conclusion to the fast-paced and addictive Wolf Girl series: an exciting urban romantasy tale packed with angst, betrayal, and devastating battles. ***I finally made it out of the Dark Woods only to learn that Sawyer is in prison, our people are still at war, and the wolves are hiding underground. It will take every ounce of strength I have to save our people, get my man back, and bring down the queen. I can't do this alone, and calling on an old friend proves to be the best decision I could ever make. Nothing will keep me from my mate, not even the magical world's most high security prison. The epic finale of the thrilling Wolf Girl series concludes this magical journey into a world of dazzling shapeshifters, with romantic pining and dramatic moments perfect for lovers of young adult and new adult fantasy romance. TropesFated MatesShifter RomanceFantasy RomanceVampires vs WerewolvesUrban FantasyThe Wolf Girl Seri

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Book SynopsisInspired by traditional folktales from around the world, this features fantastical, mesmerising tales about how different forest animals came to resemble the species that we know today. The stories mix humour, suspense, a few scares and charming full colour artwork to spellbinding effect. Full list of stories: How The Bear Lost His Tail, How The Frog Became King of the Marshes, How Kangaroo Got A Tail, Why Owls Stare, Silver Soup and the Sneaky Fox, How The Stag Got His Antlers, How Dogs Became Our Friends, How Raven Brought Light To The Forest.

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Book SynopsisSunday Times Children's Book of the Week, 21st of May 2023 Books for Keeps Book of the Year 2023 Featured in The Times Literary Supplement's Best Children's Books of 2023 Featured in The Telegraph Best Children's Books of the Year 2023 A child's desperate voice is calling to Meg Lewis from the garden of her new house. As her investigation leads to a knot of deceit, betrayal and cruelty, Meg discovers magical powers of her own. Mysteries abound: why is a shape-shifting vixen following her? And what secrets lie hidden in the Golden Tower? Meg finds herself embroiled in a centuries-old battle that threatens the very balance of the world itself. Trade Review"Like the great classic fantasy novels by Alan Garner and Susan Cooper. This hopeful story weaves together realism and the supernatural in a way that makes the ordinary arresting and touching." * Sunday Times *"A beautifully-written white-knuckle ride." * The Telegraph *"Gripping and richly imagined, this is a wonderful book." * Literary Review *"Womack taps into the best fantasy traditions of Susan Cooper, Alan Garner and CS Lewis." * The Financial Times *'Ghostlord hits the sweet spot between imaginative abandon and control." * The Times Literary Supplement *'A slow-building, darkly eerie tale.' * Kirkus Reviews *'Ghostlord is a compelling fantasy novel in which a girl is pulled into a war between good and evil. This series title includes ample context to situate newcomers in its ongoing tale.' * Foreword Reviews *'An interesting, immersive fantasy.' * Books for Keeps *'Never lets up from first page to last.' * Books for Keeps, Books of the Year list 2023 *'Ghostlord is a gripping, fast-action tale of mystery and supernatural twists ... this is a book that won’t be forgotten quickly ... This is the ticket for anyone who longs for a strong storyline and fantasy in the real world." * Paper Lanterns *'Evocative, eerie and engrossing. Bravo!' * Eve McDonnell, author of The Chestnut Roaster *'A captivating young adult novel that seamlessly weaves a wonderful concept with an enchanting writing style. Womack's storytelling prowess is evident as he introduces readers to a mesmerizing world filled with fantasy elements that add depth and intrigue to the narrative.' * NetGalley Librarian *PRAISE FOR WILDLORD "A tremendous achievement. I can’t remember when I last read something so completely satisfying." * Jonathan Stroud, author of The Outlaws Scarlett & Browne *PRAISE FOR WILDLORD “Crackles with an otherworldly atmosphere reminiscent of the great Alan Garner." * The Financial Times *Praise for WILDLORD "If you’re looking for a gripping adventure with a supernatural edge, this is just the ticket." * CityKids *

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Book SynopsisSara Raasch has known she was destined for bookish things since the age of five, when her friends had a lemonade stand and she tagged along to sell her hand-drawn picture books too. She is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of ten books for teens, including the historical romantasy duology WITCH AND HUNTER, cowritten with Beth Revis; as well as romances for adults, starting with THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE KISSMAS. You can visit her online at www.sararaaschbooks.com.Beth Revis is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author with books available in more than twenty languages. She primarily writes science fiction and fantasy, including the Witch and Hunter duology, Across the Universe, Star Wars: The Princess and the Scoundrel, and the Chaotic Orbits series. A native of North Carolina, Revis lives in a rural corner of the state with her son and husband. She can be found at bethrevis.com.

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Book SynopsisA new edition of the much loved classic. Catherine and her family set out for her grandmother’s house deep in the Derbyshire hills. Sheltering from a storm in an old cruck barn with her younger sister and brother, it becomes strangely familiar to her, and she is drawn back to a time when three children sheltered all winter away from a terrible plague that was devastating their village. Written by a master storyteller Children of Winter recreates the time when the tiny village of Eyam in Derbyshire cut itself off from the rest of England in 1666. Cover Art by Tamsin Rosewell.

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Book SynopsisEllie is ready to have the best summer ever but nothing goes to plan. Faced with losing everything she loves most, can Ellie find a way to win back her brother and save her beloved tree? An utterly charming story about a lovable 10-year-old with Down's syndrome whose extra sparkle never fails to shine bright.

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

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Book SynopsisBouncy Bo and little Smudge Lived in a CASTLE, with their father, Mr Judge.... Bouncy Bo and Little Smudge live in a sombre castle with their serious father. They are full of laughter and mischief, but it seems as if all the adults have forgotten how to smile . . . until an eye-opening visit to their grandparents proves otherwise! Romping rhyme and joyful silliness from Klaus Flugge Prize shortlisted illustrator Padmacandra.

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Book SynopsisWhen lies are everywhere, how far will you go for the truth? A tense eco-drama with an explosive twist from the million-copy selling author of Girl, Missing.Fourteen-year-old Maya cannot believe she has to spend the summer with her grandmother, helping out at the family cosmetics firm. But things get much more exciting when she meets a community of activists who are campaigning against the dumping of chemical waste. Getting closer to one boy in particular, Bear, Maya is dared into joining one of their protest missions, but doesn't know that her grandmother's business is the target.  Someone has been lying about their environmentally-friendly products, and as danger threatens, Maya must uncover the truth or betray her family forever.In this edge-of-your-seat drama exploring the line between truth and lies, join millions of readers in discovering bestselling teen thrillers from Sophie McKenzie.'Sophie’s thrillers

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Book SynopsisBilly has had enough of school bullies. When a famous footballer comes to visit, Billy tries to prove that he's just like his classmates. But when the footballer is as bad as the bullies, Billy realises he doesn't need to prove anything to anyone but himself.

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Book SynopsisBroadcast to mark the 3000th programme of the much-loved children''s series Jackanory, The Hobbit was transmitted over two weeks and 10 episodes in 1979. It told the gripping story of Bilbo Baggins and his band of dwarves, who are on a quest for the treasure guarded by the fearsome dragon Smaug. As he leaves his cosy hobbit-hole and travels into the wild, Bilbo''s adventures begin. On his journey, he will encounter trolls, goblins, elves and giant spiders - as well as a mysterious and magical ring and a strange, sinister creature named Gollum... Read by Bernard Cribbins, Jan Francis, Maurice Denham and David Wood, this rare audio soundtrack is sure to offer a treat for all fans of J. R. R. Tolkien.2 CDs. 2 hrs 28 mins.

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Book SynopsisFrom Snow White to Cinderella, Rapunzel to Rumpelstiltskin, the Brothers Grimm bequeathed a canon of stories which have become literary and childhood classics. The most widely read story collection after the Bible, their magical tales are stalwarts of early learning and imagination, listed in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register as a vital part of our history and culture. This beautiful hardback anthology is based on the Grimm’s popular 1857 edition and features 27 of their best-loved stories in a vibrant and meticulous new translation commissioned for this publication. The tales are accompanied by exquisite vintage illustrations from the past 200 years, including masterpieces from the legendary Kay Nielsen, British artists Walter Crane and Arthur Rackham, and giants of 19th-century German illustration Gustav Süs, Heinrich Leutemann, and Viktor Paul Mohn. Additional historic and contemporary silhouettes dance across the pages like delicate black paper lace. In addition to the tales and illustrations, the book contains a foreword on the Grimms’ legacy, brief introductions to each fairy tale, and extended artists’ biographies in the appendix. For adults and children alike, this precious edition brings the eternal magic of the Grimms’ stories to the heart of every home.The following fairy tales are featured in the book:The Frog Prince, The Wolf and the Seven Little Goats, Little Brother and Little Sister, Rapunzel, Hansel and Gretel, The Fisherman and His Wife, The Brave Little Tailor, Cinderella, Mother Holle, Little Red Riding Hood, The Bremen Town Musicians, The Devil with Three Golden Hairs, The Shoemaker and the Elves, Tom Thumb’s Travels, Sleeping Beauty, Snow White, Rumpelstiltskin, The Three Feathers, The Golden Goose, Jorinde and Joringel, The Goose Girl, The Twelve Dancing Princesses, The Star Coins, Snow White and Red Nose, The Hare and the Hedgehog, Puss n’ Boots, The Golden KeyTrade Review“…a truly bewitching coffee-table tome.” * Modern Luxury Interiors *“The perfect addition to any nursery library, it will have readers and listeners spellbound.” * Daily Telegraph *"This gloriously illustrated collection, TASCHEN's first children's book, includes lesser-known tales like 'Little Brother and Little Sister' and 'The Devil With the Three Golden Hairs' along with the favorites... Best are the timeless illustrations, mostly European, gleaned from previously published work from the 1820s to the 1950s. The stories, if not all their characters, live happily ever after." * New York Times Book Review *

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Book SynopsisWhat doesn't kill you makes you stronger. Struggling to deal with her brother's death and a past she refuses to confront, Stevie knows she has problems. The regimented and obtrusive nature of the clinic and its staff is torture to the deeply private, obstinate Stevie - and don't even get her started on the other 'inmates'.Trade Review[A] captivating and realistic portrayal or living (or dying) with an eating disorder -- Amy McKay * School Library Association *

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Book SynopsisKing Odysseus is happy at home with his loving wife and baby son. Then King Menelaus asks him to help bring Queen Helen back from the city of Troy. For ten years the Greeks besiege Troy, but they can't break into the city until Odysseus thinks of a plan. With fun activities and online audio in both British English and American English.

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Book SynopsisFrom master storyteller Kate DiCamillo comes an original fairy tale, enchantingly illustrated, in which five puppets confront circumstances beyond their control with patience, cunning and high spirits.Once, there was a king. And a wolf. And a girl with a shepherd's crook. And a boy with a bow and arrow. And also, there was an owl... They were puppets, and they were waiting for a story to begin.In this new work of short fiction by twice winner of the Newbery Medal Kate DiCamillo, exquisitely illustrated in black and white by Governor General Literary Award Finalist Julie Morstad, five puppets who find themselves together in an abandoned trunk are carried off into the adventure of a lifetime.

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Book SynopsisGeek Girl meets Buffy in a brilliantly funny new teen series from bestselling author Jo Simmons.Trade ReviewThe voice is pitch perfect in this hilarious comedy of errors. It's a great twist on the familiar vampire genre for slightly younger teens with a rom-com element thrown in. There is action and suspense aplenty and some suitably blood-thirsty descriptions without there being any dreadful danger or peril, even though there are a few nearly fatal misses ... a brilliant read for young teenagers. -- Jane Churchill * Books for Keeps *The set up allows for lots of opportunities for comedy, and no shortage of thrills either ... but there's humour too in the relationship between Mo and Lou. Simmons successfully mixes Gothic horror into the familiar, loving knockabout of teenage life and friendships and to great effect. -- Andrea Reece * Love Reading *The Reluctant Vampire Queen by Jo Simmons sees 15-year-old Mo proclaimed Vampire Queen of Great Britain against her democratic, vegetarian principles. Think Geek Girl with a supernatural twist. -- Fiona Noble * The Observer *

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Book SynopsisINTRODUCING A BOLD NEW HERO - DAMIEN IKE.Damien Ike is fortunate. As the son of the most powerful mage in the land, he should have a bright future ahead of him. But as Damien approaches adulthood, he can't help but worry that there is no sign of his magic developing. And yet to survive beyond a few days old with no magic is unthinkable - the High Commission of Mages does not allow it. There's no way his father, their leader, would have a son who is a Nullborn.Then Damien stumbles upon a secret his mother has kept from everyone - even him - and everything changes. Could it be that the fortune his future promised is not all it's cracked up to be? As Damien's world is turned upside down, he must discover how to keep their secret safe and get to the heart of the lies on which their world is founded . . .A thrilling new YA fantasy exploring fear, prejudice . . . and hope. Perfect for fans of THE WITCHER and AN EMBER IN THE ASHES.<

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Book Synopsis12 fun books to uncover the exciting world of Wild Animals!Discover fascinating facts about lions, pandas, tigers, elephants and many more. From prowling in the jungle to hiding in bamboo, explore the exciting world of your favourite animals. Immerse yourself in the jungle with beautiful and colourful illustrations to bring these stories to life.

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Book SynopsisBook Band: Brown, ideal for ages 7+A hilarious tale based on Irish mythology and the Giant''s Causeway from award-winning author Sally Prue. If you go to Ireland and catch the bus to Ballycastle, there by the sea you''ll find the Giant''s Causeway. This is the story of how the causeway was made and it all starts with Finn McCool, the biggest giant in Ireland, who sets out to find an even bigger giant across the sea in Scotland. But Finn doesn''t always have the best ideas and it''s up to his wife Oona to come to the rescue when the Scottish giant follows Finn back home...This funny retelling of an Irish myth from award-winning author Sally Prue has whimsical black-and-white illustrations by Brendan Kearney and is perfect for children who are developing as readers.The Bloomsbury Readers series is packed with book-banded stories to get children reading independently in Key Stage 2 by award-winning authors like double Carnegie Medal winner Geraldine McCaughrean andTrade ReviewAny list that brings together such a quality line up of authors is going to be welcomed … Bloomsbury Readers are aimed squarely at children in Key Stage 2 and designed to support them as they start reading independently and while they continue to gain confidence and understanding. -- Andrea Reece * Books for Keeps *

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Book SynopsisBook Band: Grey, ideal for ages 8+An exciting detective story from Chitra Soundar, author of over 50 children's books in the UK, India and the US.Sindhu and Jeet are the best detectives in town: they solve all their cases with a dollop of observation, a dash of imagination and a whole load of legwork. And when they travel from India to England for a holiday, the detective work doesn't stop! This page-turning story is accompanied by black-and-white illustrations by Amberin Huq.The Bloomsbury Readers series is packed with book-banded stories to get children reading independently in Key Stage 2 by award-winning authors like double Carnegie Medal winner Geraldine McCaughrean and Waterstones Prize winner Patrice Lawrence. With engaging illustrations and online guided reading notes written by the Centre for Literacy in Primary Education (CLPE), this series is ideal for home and school. For more information visit www.bloomsburyreaders.com.''Any list that brings Trade ReviewAny list that brings together such a quality line up of authors is going to be welcomed … Bloomsbury Readers are aimed squarely at children in Key Stage 2 and designed to support them as they start reading independently and while they continue to gain confidence and understanding. -- Andrea Reece * Books for Keeps *Published as part of the Bloomsbury Readers collection, Sindhu and Jeet’s adventures are split into three connected stories aimed at helping to develop confidence in reading at Key Stage 2. Spreading the action between India and the UK adds interest while the use of humour, likeable characters, large print and incidental black-and-white illustrations increases accessibility and aids understanding. * Booktrust *

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Book SynopsisCarina Finn is a food-obsessed writer, editor, and content creator. She has written for numerous publications including Bon Appetit, Epicurious, Food Network Magazine, Eater, Bustle, and others. The Last Great Heir is her debut middle grade novel. She splits her time between Brooklyn and upstate New York, and loves sharing her adventures in cooking, eating, and writing on social media. Find her everywhere on the internet at @sheneedsasnack.

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