Children & Teen Fiction Books

Book Synopsis¡Celebremos la diversidad, las matemáticas y el poder del cuento! Celebrate diversity, math, and the power of storytelling with this bilingual (Spanish and English) edition!¡Ahora en edición bilingüe inglés-español! El día de su cumpleaños, Luna y su familia salen a comer dim sum, pero Luna y sus hermanos no se ponen de acuerdo para compartir los panecillos de puerco de manera justa. ¿Cómo se pueden dividir cinco panecillos entre tres personas?¿Alguno de los hermanos debería comer más que los otros? ¿O deberían cortar los panecillos en trozos muy pequeñitos para que todos coman la misma cantidad? Esta es una entretenida exploración sobre división y fracciones entre personajes chinoamericanos con notas culturales. On Luna''s birthday, the whole family goes out for dim sum--but Luna and her brothers can''t agree on how to share their pork buns fairly. How can three people divide up five buns? A playful exploration of division and fractions, featuring Chinese American characters and a cultural note.Storytelling Math celebrates children using math in their daily adventures as they play, build, and discover the world around them. Developed in collaboration with math experts at STEM education nonprofit TERC, under a grant from the Heising-Simons Foundation.

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Book SynopsisThis heartfelt story of resilience follows two siblings as they work to recover and rebuild after Hurricane Maria destroys their home in Puerto Rico.Before an intense hurricane hits their home in Puerto Rico, Antonio told his sister vibrant stories each night. During the storm, they huddled with their parents in a closet and hear the storm blow the roof right off their home. After the storm, their family uses a temporary blue tarp for a roof, and Antonio stops speaking. Gradually the siblings imagine their blue roof playfully?as the ocean above them or a parachute helping them fall from the sky. As the narrator helps her little brother feel safe once more--and after the family and community build a new roof--the little boy begins to speak again.

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Book SynopsisA new classic for black and brown children.ANYTHING and EVERYTHING is possible!Perhaps you want to become an artist, or a scientist, or maybe even president. Even when--especially when--the path is hard, Dear YOU: Dream BIG.A personal, poetic, and uplifting affirmation from Caribbean-born author Baptiste Paul encouraging today''s Black youth to reject those who wish to silence them, exclude them, and reject their talents with one powerful refrain.A powerful, lyrical anthem of Black pride celebrating Black creativity, leadership, and innovation that''s perfect for fans of All Because You Matter, I Am Every Good Thing, and I Am Enough.

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Book SynopsisEvery parent needs a break sometimes! Single parent Squirrel learns to lean on friends in this heartwarming and funny picture book about family and community.Squirrel is at his wits'' end after a long winter inside with his kits. His friends--the other woodland creatures--decide to work together to give him a much-deserved break. They hatch a plan to take turns helping Squirrel relax while they entertain the kits. Squirrel enjoys a day of self care, as the kits play, bake, and do fun activities with the other animals. It doesn''t take long for Squirrel''s friends to realize just how hard he works each day.Full of humor, this book embodies the message that it takes a village--or, in this case, a forest--to raise a family!

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Book SynopsisLucy and Alpha used to be the Wonder Twins, two hearts beating as one. When Mum's new job rewilding wolves means they have to move to the forest, that changes. Lucy loves being close to nature, but Alpha wants to follow her dream of basketball glory. They've become like distant universes, drifting further apart. Then a new wolf cub arrives at the centre. Lucy names him Claw and they form a special bond. But Alpha thinks he should roam free, and she plots to release him. When news of Claw's disappearance breaks, the future of the rewilding centre is at stake. Can the Wonder Twins pull together again to find Claw and heal their differences?Trade Review'A beautifully-written story about nature.' -- A.M.Howell, author of Mysteries at Sea: Peril on the Atlantic'A wonderful tale brimming with the magic of wild things.' -- Sarah Ann Juckes, author of The Night Animals‘I loved The Wolf Twins, it kept me hooked from beginning to end with its cast of intriguing and relatable characters… set against the backdrop of a majestic ancient forest with wolves!’ -- Frances Maloney, author of The Mystery of the Missing Mum'A beautifully written dual pov story of twins. Alpha and Lucy are poles apart but share a special twin bond. But a change in circumstances drives a wedge between them that only the healing power of nature and a gorgeous wolf cub can fix. A special book.' -- Nizrana Farook, author of The Boy Who Saved a Bear'An absolute triumph that will capture your heart.' -- Kevin Cobane, teacher and children's book reviewer'I love Ewa’s books... with their colourful, charismatic characters and pacy plots they always engage and entertain; her subtle touch with the serious issues being addressed mean they also tug at the heartstrings and cause a pause for thought, too!” -- Rich Simpson, teacher and children's book reviewerPRAISE FOR EWA JOZEFKOWICZ: 'A beautifully written and captivating read but it also deals sensitively with important issues such as grief, courage, friendship and finding your voice' Armadillo, on The Dragon in the Bookshop. 'A gorgeous read featuring strong friendship, books, a Polish legend and a dragon. Loved it!' A.M. Howell, author of The Secret of the Treasure Keepers, on The Dragon in the Bookshop. 'A glorious fairytale adventure full of friendship, unlikely heroes and magical Polish folklore. A book-lovers delight!' Eve Wersocki Morris, author of The Bird Singers, on The Dragon in the Bookshop. 'Celebrating the importance of community, family and friends, this is a lovely, warm-hearted story' Week Junior Book of the Week, on The Cooking Club Detectives. 'Paints a convincing picture of a harrowing time in a young life [while] offering ample humour, hope and optimism' * BookTrust Book of the Month, on The Mystery of the Colour Thief *This is a gentle look at relevant and relatable middle school issues and how they can at least be improved...This book will also give readers on the outside looking in an understanding of what it’s like to be a twin, especially when your sibling looks exactly like you! * The School Reading List *

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Book SynopsisA heartwarming story, inspired by real-life research, following two female albatrosses as they become parents.Palila loves to fly above the ocean's waves. Anuenue loves to dance. When they meet, the two albatrosses know there's no one else they'd want to become a parent with.Based on the true story of the same-sex Laysan Albatross couples of O'ahu, Hawaii, this picture book celebrates the unique relationship between two birds as they take their first steps into parenthood. With illustrations by Hawaiian artist Kimberlie Clinthorne-Wong this charming story explores themes of love, pride and family.

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Book SynopsisA great journey teaches Bear that there are more important things than destinations. Bear wakes up after his long winter's sleep and joins his friend, Butterfly, on a journey. 'Where are we going?' asks Bear. 'All journeys have secret destinations', says Butterfly. As they travel through forest, over hill and across a great river, Butterfly offers her wisdom about hardships, facing one's fears and living in the moment. Bear's natural impatience gradually softens into acceptance of the world around him. As the seasons change, the friends find themselves once more in front of Bear's cave. Landscapes look different with different eyes and the end of one journey is the beginning of another. This is a heartwarming book about the circles and cycles of life and being. A gentle and inspiring way to introduce Buddhist philosophies and values to young readers.

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Book SynopsisIs your bath BUBBLY enough? Is your bed BOUNCY enough? Is your cereal CRUNCHY enough? Don’t delay – call Sneaky Beak TODAY for deals beyond your wildest dreams! Bear and Hamster are perfectly content... until gadget-mad salesman, Sneaky Beak, arrives. But when they finally have it all, will Bear and Hamster really be happier? A hilarious story with an important message about the pitfalls of materialism.

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Book Synopsis‘[A] potent, brutal read... You won't be able to forget this story of a young boy robbed of his own childhood.’ Marie Claire, best YA 2019 I tell myself I’ve chosen to live, but the water knows the truth. Waves brush my arms, soft as shroud linen. The water knows I have to die. Three years after his older brother is recruited by the Somali militia group Al Shaabab, Abdi and his family are kidnapped by Americans. In exchange for their freedom, he reluctantly agrees to go undercover to rescue his brother and help foil deadly attacks. After months in their ranks, Abdi finally escapes. Haunted and alone on the streets of Kenya, he steals what he can to get by. But an arrest for petty theft sets in motion a chain of events that force him to confront the past he’s been so desperately trying to forget.Trade Review'Greed, guilt, and redemption are layered in a sober yet tender narrative showing the lengths one will go to for loved ones.' * Kirkus Reviews *'An intriguing examination of ways familial loyalty and guilt can lead anyone to make desperate choices. Anderson uses the exploration of manipulation and coercion to craft a thought-provoking narrative.' * School Library Journal *'Anderson...breathe[s] ferocious life into a story that needs to be told. This is one of those tough but invaluable books with the power to increase a reader's awareness of and empathy for teens who have lost the right to be young.' * Booklist, starred review *'[Anderson] makes it clear how difficult it is for even children to survive this faith-based and historically rooted conflict unscathed.' * Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books *'Narrator Kevin R. Free breathes dramatic urgency into Anderson's intense story…Listeners hear and feel Abdi's horror and numb, helpless despair at the atrocities he witnesses — and perpetrates — and we rejoice at his redemption.' * AudioFile, Earphones Award Winner *‘[A] potent, brutal read... You won't be able to forget this story of a young boy robbed of his own childhood.’ -- Marie Claire, best YA 2019‘Let’s Go Swimming on Doomsday is a gritty, challenging, but worthwhile read offering a message of redemption.’ -- Armadillo Magazine

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Book SynopsisCat was knitted by Mum out of the softest, fluffiest wool, and wrapped in shiny paper and a big, pink ribbon… but why was he made? When you are brand new, the world is full of questions, and if you are brave it can be full of answers too. Cat asks the wind, the stars and the trees for help, but it is only when he discovers love that he also finds his purpose.Trade Review"A cozy gift for Christmas" * Kirkus *"...the story will set children thinking about life and love." -- Andrea Reece * LoveReading4Kids *"Recommended for anyone who can identify with a protagonist utterly unravelling and wants to ponder on big questions." -- Mini Grey * BookTrust - Best Kids' Books of 2018 *"Though simple on the surface, this story may spark questions and conversation about identity, second chances, and sense of purpose" * Publishers Weekly *"It's a beautiful mix of words and pictures to create a tender and thoughtful tale which showcases Lucas's trademark blend of philosophy, myth and fairytale." * The School Librarian *

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Book SynopsisWhen twins Vicky and Bertie buy a horse to ride to school, they get way more than they bargained for - this is no ordinary horse, this is a Young Performing Horse! He learns his sums at school with them and even performs alongside them in London when they set off to make their fortune on the stage. Is there no end to the Young Performing Horse's talents?Trade Review"A wildly imaginative story, delightfully told" * Lovereading4Kids *"Who could fail to love the work of Blake and Yeoman... there is joy in their work and this book is no exception." * Early Years Educator *"A magical tale" * Red Reading Hub *"A wildly imaginative story, delightfully told" * Lovereading4Kids *"Who could fail to love the work of Blake and Yeoman... there is joy in their work and this book is no exception." * Early Years Educator *

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Book SynopsisA brand new Mr Gumpy story from picture-book legend, John BurninghamMr Gumpy is off on an adventure! This time he's rescuing a rhino who's lost its parents... But growing rhinos needs lots of food. Will Charlie the rhino and Mr Gumpy manage to make a happy home together?A madcap adventure for children, adults and rhinos alike from the creator of Would You Rather and Avocado Baby.Praise for Mr Gumpy's Outing - winner of the Kate Greenaway Medal"A story of real drama observed with gentle humour" Guardian

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Book SynopsisA new gift edition of James K Baxter's classic poems for children, illustrated by Kieran Rynhart. The poems in The Tree House are light and easy read-alouds for classrooms or with toddlers-on-the-couch. James K Baxter wrote these poems when he was teaching in Lower Hutt in the 1950s. Successful in the classroom, they have been regularly reprinted in anthologies and collections and remain popular for their accessible rhythms, humour, and quintessentially New Zealand settings. This new gift edition of Baxter's poems is illustrated by Kieran Rynhart in dramatic spreads and beautifully drawn details.Trade Review"The pages are full of timeless verse about subjects close to every child’s heart, especially those with adventurous spirits; tree houses, swings, whales, ships, steam engines, all are captured with verve and aplomb on the page. The lush, atmospheric illustrations add to the book’s appeal. Perfect for reading aloud to thoughtful children." -- Irish Independent"This is a beautiful gift edition of a selection of poems from the classic children’s book The Tree House by New Zealand’s folk poet, James K. Baxter, written in the 1950s. I love the outdoors theme and the different perspectives from which the poems are told – a seagull looking down, a girl on a swing. Gorgeously illustrated and with poems for all seasons, this is a lovely anthology." -- Juno Magazine"A beautifully packaged, perfectly sized and long overdue collection of Baxter’s timeless kids’ poems." -- The Listener, 50 Best Kids' Books of 2020

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Book SynopsisLast term, Berkley Paggle ( AKA Bad Knight) defeated a dragon at the end-of-term jousting match. When he comes back to school, he discovers that his dragon battling abilities have made him the most popular kid in class. He loves the attention, but his cousin, Godwin (AKA Good Knight), is not impressed when Berk lets his popularity go to his head. Tom Knight, author and illustrator of Good Knight, Bad Knight and Jimmy Finnigan's Wild Wood Band, returns with mid-grade fiction featuring the same characters and armour-splittingly funny humour.Trade ReviewAuthor and illustrator Tom Knight, the magical master of gloriously comical picture books and the creator of Good Knight, Bad Knight, returns with a hilarious new middle grade series starring those charismatic rival knights. From danger and drama to rhymes and laugh-out-loud adventures, this is an entertaining and time-honoured fiction formula that will delight both children and parents. Berkley Paggle is a bad knight and his cousin Godwin is a good knight. At least that's the way things used to be. Last term Berk defeated a dragon with his troll-breath stink bomb in a jousting match and when he comes back to school, he discovers that his dragon-battling abilities have made him the most popular kid in class. Berk loves the attention and joins the school bladderball team so he can hang out with the cool knights. Berk lets his popularity go to his head and doesn't have time for Godwin and his best friend Warrick any more... until Godwin discovers that Warrick is dabbling in dark magic and needs Berk's help. Brimming with Knight's lively, high-energy illustrations and a madcap story that delivers, spills, thrills, laughs and mishaps, this is the perfect series for mischievous youngsters and an appealing adventure for reluctant readers. * Lancashire Evening Post *The two young rival knights are back, not in picture book format but in what looks to be the first of a series and if this one is anything to go by the aptly named Tom Knight is on to a winner.In case you didn't meet the cousins in their previous incarnation, Berkeley Paggle is the bad one, Godwin the goody. A rhyming introduction sets the scene reminding us of how Berkeley saved the day by using a terrific stink bomb to send an evil-intentioned dragon skywards.Now school is about to start again and Berk with his new hero status is eagerly anticipating the day for the first time ever.Thus begins a delicious tale of derring-do, a dark magic dabble - the dabbler being Warrick Pitchkettle (Berk's best pal), who has come across an ancient spell book.The plot is frenetic and throughout, the dialogue is peppered with mock-medieval exclamations, some just plain crazy, others with a tinge of toilet; and there are diary entries, a weird game called bladderball - Berk's current obsession,dastardly deeds - of course, great danger in the form of a brush with the evil hordesand a surprising admission (Berk again, but Godwin too).The tale is spicily summed up in a few final verses sung by the cast and there's a glossary should you struggle with some of the wonderful medieval words.I'll say no more other than it all adds up to a cracking read liberally littered with super illustrations by Tom himself. * Red Reading Hub *Shortlisted for the Teach Primary NewChildren's Fiction Awards in 2016, TomKnight returns with the armour-splittingGood Knight, Bad Knight and the BigGame, a hilarious series of middle-gradefiction about the same young rival ofknights. Last term, Berkley Paggle (AKABad Knight) defeated a dragon at the end-of-term jousting match. When hecomes back to school, he discoversthat his dragon battling abilities havemade him the most popular kid in class.He loves the attention, but his cousin,Godwin (AKA Good Knight), is notimpressed when Berk lets * Teach Reading and Writing *So let's kick off with a book by an aptly-named author. "Good Knight, Bad Knight and the Big Game" by Tom Knight is a medieval romp with a ton of spookiness.At Knight School, last term Berkley Paggle ( AKA Bad Knight) defeated a dragon at the end-of-term jousting match.When Berkley comes back to school, he discovers that his dragon battling abilities have made him the most popular kid in class. He loves the attention and coasts on his fame, but his cousin, Godwin (AKA Good Knight), is not impressed when Berk lets his popularity go completely to his head. There's a new menace in town, and a battle royale on the horizon and it might be time to join forces! * Read it Daddy *

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Book SynopsisFact meets fiction in this thrilling story of 18th century smuggling and intrigue!Kitty Cask is a smuggler's daughter. In the Cornish coastal village of Minnock, Kitty and her family make their living as "free traders" - secretly bringing contraband goods into the country while evading the corrupt Redcoats who work for the King. Kitty isn't supposed to be involved in any of her father's schemes... but she's very good at creeping out at night, and before too long she is caught in the thick of the action - salvaging shipwrecks, staging prison-breaks, and staying one step ahead of the tyrannical excisemen!With an exciting story and brilliant illustrations, and filled with amazing facts and historical trivia, you won't be able to put this SECRET DIARY down!Read the other books in the series:The Secret Diary of John Drawbridge, Medieval Knight in TrainingThe Secret Diary of Jane Pinny, Victorian House Maid (and Accidental Detective)The Secret Diary of Thomas Snoop, Tudor Boy Spy

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Book SynopsisA thrilling middle grade fantasy about a girl who must participate in a deadly game with a ragtag team of players to save her grandfather from a terrible fate—perfect for fans of James Riley and Shannon Messenger! In the opulent, sinking city of Dantessa, the Great Game rules all. Pia Paro believes that so long as you follow the rules, you always have a chance at winning. But after her beloved Gramps is sentenced to a life of servitude, Pia accepts a dangerous offer and joins a team of players seeking to win the most perilous game of all: Noctis. The Seafoxes—Pia’s new teammates—are unlike anyone she’s ever met. There’s brash, bold Carlo; macabre Serafina; kindhearted Pasquale; and their dashing ringleader, Vittoria. Each has their own reason for playing, and soon, Pia begins to question all her long-held beliefs. Maybe the rules Pia once trusted to lift her up have only been keeping her—and thousands of others li

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Book SynopsisKaren B Winnick has written a fun, friendly, and informative book about African animals comprised of short, separate vignettes in stanza style pertaining to different types of animals and their behaviours in the wild. Soft but strong 4-color illustrations accompany each vignette and will draw young children into her world of a day and night safari in a jeep in the wilds of Africa.

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Book SynopsisFan-favorite characters from This Is a Taco are back in this hilarious picture book tale of the ultimate birthday cake disaster! It's Taco the squirrel's birthday, and all of his little animal friends are planning a big surprise for him--they're going to make him a birthday cake! The only problem with their plan is that none of them know how to make a cake. So, as this sassy crew of critters is known to do, they set out to learn all they can about birthday cakes and how to make one, with spectacularly disastrous and delightful results.

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On this birthday, remember who’s giving to who, because the best gift of all, is when you gave me YOU. Award-winning poet and artist Clay Rice brings his signature papercut style to this tender birthday affirmation of positive praise for a special child. Amidst the presents and candles, this gorgeous picture book reminds the child that they are the greatest gift! It’s your playful spirit and creative spark. And your sweet soul and loving heart. You shine like the sun in all that you do, you gave me a gift when you gave me you.

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Book SynopsisKaboku has always just gone with the flow, marching in step to the drumbeat of the expectations of those around him: parents, school, plans for the future. It feels predictable, safe, and... empty. But one night, Kaboku's at school late, and he happens on a girl alone, moving wildly, turning a blank space of concrete into a canvas. This is Hikari Wanda, a member of the hip-hop dance club. Kaboku is immediately smitten, but the road to stepping out of his shell is a long one. The club is almost entirely girls, and they're all, well, way better than him. What's ahead is unknown, and that's terrifying, but it also means, for the first time in Kaboku's life a taste of freedom.

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Book SynopsisUprooted meets The Grace Year in this dark young adult fantasy of love and vengeance set in an alternate historical Britain, following a girl who vows to kill a god after her sister is unjustly slain by his handWeatherell girls aren’t supposed to die. Once every eighteen years, the isolated forest village of Weatherell is asked to send one girl to the god of the mountain to give a sacrifice before returning home. Twins Anya and Ilva Astraea are raised with this destiny in mind, and when their time comes, spirited Ilva volunteers to go. Her devoted sister Anya is left at home to pray for Ilva’s safe return. But Anya’s prayers are denied. With her sister dead, Anya volunteers to make a journey of her own to visit the god of the mountain. But unlike her sister, sacrifice is the furthest thing from Anya’s mind. Anya has no intention of giving anything more to the god, or of letting any other girl do so ever again. Anya Astraea has not set out to placate a god. She’s set out to kill one.Trade Review"A heady and evocative tale that will appeal to readers of Leigh Bardugo and Holly Black." -- School Library Journal* "Utilizing lyrical language, memorable characters, and a romantic undertone, Weymouth crafts a meditative fantasy worth savoring." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review“Achingly lovely and luminous, Weymouth weaves a tale of vengeance and mercy that left me completely enthralled. I’ll be thinking about the Weatherell girls for a very long time to come.” -- Erin A. Craig, New York Times bestselling author of HOUSE OF SALT AND SORROWS"Once again, Weymouth delivers a story full of lyrically-spun atmosphere and ferocious spirit that you'll be thinking about long after it's done." -- Lauren Blackwood, New York Times bestselling author of WITHIN THESE WICKED WALLS"A Consuming Fire is delicate and devastating, a heart-wrenching exploration of faith, mercy, and how worship can twist on axes of power." -- Hannah Whitten, New York Times bestselling author of For the Wolf"With exquisite prose and fiery characters, A Consuming Fire will fulfill readers in search of stories about sisterhood, courage, and love in all the forms it takes." -- Nafiza Azad, author of THE WILD ONES"At its heart, A Consuming Fire is a story of resilience and courage. Weymouth’s spellbinding fantasy adventure celebrates the indomitable strength of the human spirit when up against the impossible." -- Sarah Raughley, author of The Bones of Ruin“I adored this fierce and beautiful book. I long to give it to every girl who ever wanted to fight a god. -- Erin Bow, Award-winning author of The Scorpion Rules

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Book Synopsis*A Book Riot Must-Read South Asian Book of 2022**A BuzzFeed Highly Anticipated YA Book of Summer 2022*She grew up battling the monsters that live in the black seas, but it couldn't prepare her to face the cunning cruelty of the ruling elite.Perfect for fans of The Hunger Games and These Violent Delights, this South Asian-inspired fantasy is a gripping debut about the power of the elite, the price of glory, and one girl's chance to change it all.Sixteen-year-old Koral and her older brother Emrik risk their lives each day to capture the monstrous maristags that live in the black seas around their island. They have to, or else their family will starve.In an oceanic world swarming with vicious beasts, the Landers-the ruling elite, have indentured Koral's family to provide the maristags for the Glory Race, a deadly chariot tournament reserved for the upper class. The winning contender receives gold and glory. The others-if they're lucky-survive.When the last maristag of the year escapes and Koral has no new maristag to sell, her family's financial situation takes a turn for the worse and they can't afford medicine for her chronically ill little sister. Koral's only choice is to do what no one in the world has ever dared: cheat her way into the Glory Race.But every step of the way is unpredictable as Koral races against competitors-including her ex-boyfriend-who have trained for this their whole lives and who have no intention of letting a low-caste girl steal their glory. As a rebellion rises and rogues attack Koral to try and force her to drop out, she must choose-her life or her sister's-before the whole island burns.Perfect for fans of:Dystopian FantasySea MonstersExes-to-Rivals-to-?Golden Boy x PariahDeadly CompetitionRebellionAngsty TeenagersFans of Chloe GongFemale FriendshipPraise for Monsters Born and Made:"An exhilarating race of willpower and defiance, set on an utterly unique world filled with glorious monsters." -Xiran Jay Zhao, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Iron Widow"Monsters Born and Made takes well-beloved YA tropes and turns them on their heads, creating an action-packed rallying cry against oppression and a riveting tale of one girl's desperation to survive no matter the odds." -Roseanne A. Brown, New York Times bestselling author of A Song of Wraiths and Ruin

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Book SynopsisThe explosion jolts him awake. He sits up, gasping for air, heart thumping.Was the blast real? Perhaps it had only happened in his head, a bad dream. Demons of the dark, his father had called them. ''Push them away. They''ll only poison your thoughts. Seek the light and they can''t hurt you.''Naveed is sick of war - of the foreign powers and the Taliban, the warlords and the drug barons that together have torn Afghanistan apart. He''s had to grow up quickly to take care of his widowed mother and little sister, making what little money he can doing odd jobs and selling at the markets. When he adopts Nasera, a street dog with extraordinary abilities, he has a chance to help rebuild his country. But will a new friend''s betrayal crush his dreams of peace forever?From the winter of war comes the spring of hope.''Naveed brings a human face to a war we have heard so much about. John Heffernan has allowed us an important glimpse into the world of an Afghan child and an insight into the complexity and beauty of the Afghan people. In Naveed, we have a name for the thousands of Afghan children who are suffering through this terrible war. Through his optimism, we are offered hope.'' - Neil Grant, author of The Ink Bridge

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Book SynopsisI don't know about love. I suspect the emotion that others apparently feel all the time is just . . . absent from me. Like there's an ingredient missing from the recipe. The possible exception is Gran.Grace cares about only two things: performing magic and her cantankerous gran. Gran shares her prickly personality and spiky sense of humour, and she's the only one Grace lets into her tightly locked heart - until she meets Simon, a schoolmate who promises to help her turn her magic tricks into a small business and social media stardom.When Gran is diagnosed with a terminal illness, Grace moves in to become her primary carer. With the help of Simon and some sleight of hand, Grace is determined to bring joy back into their lives. And when she confronts her worst fear, she realises maybe her heart doesn't need to stay locked away after all.A funny, compelling and fresh story from the author of the bestselling books My Life As An Alphabet and A Song Only I Can Hear.'Smoke & Mirrors is fantastic sleight of hand and heart; at once tender and humorous.' - Danielle Binks'A portrait of grief and growth, with a touch of spectacle. This is more than magic... It's a miracle.' - Will KostakisTrade Review'Smoke & Mirrors is fantastic sleight of hand and heart; at once tender and humorous, while also having complex conversations with young readers amidst a fantastically funny tale of family, friendship and grief. Jonsberg is one of Australia's most empathetic children's writers; and in this latest book that great strength is on full display.' - Danielle Binks, author of The Year the Maps Changed

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Book SynopsisIt's another busy day at Stanley's boatyard!Stanley's boat is shipshape and ready for action! But it's not smooth sailing for everyone at sea today - will Stanley be able to help? A wonderful first introduction to boats and life by the seaside. Discover more Stanley books:Stanley's GarageStanley the BuilderStanley the FarmerStanley's CafeStanley's ShopStanley the PostmanStanley's SchoolStanley's TrainStanley's Fire EngineStanley's LibraryStanley's Park

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Book SynopsisWhat would you sacrifice for someone you've loved forever? Winner of the Michael L. Printz Award, MIDWINTERBLOOD is a dark, breathtaking and cleverly crafted paranormal love story like no other, beautifully told in seven parts and spanning ten centuries.Have you ever had the feeling that you've lived another life? Been somewhere that has felt totally familiar even though you've never been there before, or felt that you've known someone even though you are meeting them for the first time?Eric and Merle loved and lost one another, and have been searching for each other through time ever since. This novel comprises seven short stories and travels in time, from 2073 back to the days of Viking sagas. Across the different tales, the two souls appear as lovers, mother and son, brother and sister, and artist and child as they come close to finding each other before facing the ultimate sacrifice . . .Trade ReviewMidwinterblood contains much that is riveting, strange and darkly enchanting. I read it in a single feverish sitting, late one evening, and drifted to sleep haunted by its vision of love and fate and history. * THE GUARDIAN *It is something of a cliché for a reviewer to claim he devoured a book in a single sitting, and I have to admit that is not the case here. I began "Midwinterblood" late one evening in bed, dreamed about it through the night and finished it early the next morning. * THE NEW YORK TIMES *The Time Traveler's Wife meets Lost in this chilling exploration of love and memory. * KIRKUS REVIEWS *This is a novel that demands to be read more than once because it is only at the conclusion of the seven interlinked episodic stories that the complexity of the novel's extraordinary story of doomed love becomes clear... Sedgwick is a fine writer and this hugely atmospheric and demanding book will satisfy adults too. * Sally Morris, THE DAILY MAIL *

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Book SynopsisThe gun is the coward's fist. The gun is power.Alex and Ethan are growing up on an estate where there are just two choices: sport or crime. Ethan is selected for a football training programme in the US, his chance to escape the gangs that terrorise his neighbourhood. But Alex is drawn into an explosive feud with a gun at its heart.In this gripping and absorbing real life thriller, Alan Gibbons explores the complex issue of gun crime, and the far reaching consequences it can have.Trade ReviewThe characters in this moving and fast-paced story are real and the dilemmas they face believable. There are no easy solutions here, but courage and integrity shine through. * Carousel *Adventurous, breath-taking and realistic -- Isaac, Bolingbroke Academy, Year 8 * Books For Keeps *Fast-paced and straight-talking, Alan Gibbons' writing always does justice to the moral complexities of the problems it sets out to explore * Book Trust *Fast-moving and tense ... A thriller that provides an insight into street violence while never glamorising it * School Librarian *

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Book SynopsisDarkness is the friend and enemy of those who hunt by night. Ellie and her friends have found safety after months of fighting. But the New Zealand Defence Force needs their help to infiltrate occupied Australian territory. And so the friends must fight on.

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Book SynopsisA classic Fine tale of bravery and friendship from a bestselling author of great repute. Tom has to pass his exams to join the army – but uniform woes keep getting in the way! Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers of 8+ Tom wants to join the army, but he has to pass his exams first! When he turns up without proper uniform on exam day, strict Mrs Dell threatens to send him home. There are spare clothes available, but is Tom brave enough to face the exam hall – in a skirt? Touching comedy for low ability readers. Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers of 8+

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Book SynopsisGritty, nail-biting thriller from Carnegie medalist Kevin Brooks. Finbar's quiet weekend is disrupted by the sudden appearance of a girl with a gun and a bag of cash. Who is she? And will Finbar's life ever be the same? Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers aged 12+ A gritty teen drama. Finbar's fed up. He's back at his dad's house for the usual weekend visit of watching TV and eating chips. Just like every other. The last thing he expects is for a girl to burst into the house. A girl with a gun – and a bag of stolen cash. Who is she? What has she done? And will Finbar's life ever be the same? Gritty, nail-biting thriller from Carnegie medalist Kevin Brooks. Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers aged 12+

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Book SynopsisA haunting, powerful drama from Carnegie Medalist Melvin Burgess about a struggle to return to life. A girl in a coma. A desperate mother. Can they both persist long enough to find a way back to one another? Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers aged 12+ A haunting, powerful drama from Carnegie Medalist Melvin Burgess. A girl in a coma. A desperate mother. Marianne has been absent from her own life for so long that even her mother's unwavering faith is starting to tremble. But Marianne, floating in her own world, is starting to remember who she is – and the sad woman that visits every day. Can they both persist long enough to find a way back to one another? Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers aged 12+

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Book SynopsisPowerful drama of love, loss, family and friendship from a superstar of UK children’s and YA fiction, inspired by a tremendously moving true story. When Mikey's dad died, something in Mikey died too. He loved his old man and he never stopped dreaming that one day his dad would land the role of a lifetime, prove them all wrong, and rock back up to the estate in the flashiest car anyone had ever seen. Now there's just numbness, and not caring, and really, really stupid decisions. He says the worst of it is that he can't evenremember his dad's voice any more. Eventually Mikey's best mate can't bear it any more, and so he sets out to give Mikey the memories – and his dad's voice – back.Trade Review"Male friendship is portrayed in a way we seldom see in YA: intense and emotionally charged, but also warm and deeply loyal" – The Bookseller "Trainspotting for the Young Adult reader" – The Times "It stays with you, it becomes part of you. Tough, funny and incredibly moving, it’s a book that you’ll read in one sitting, but remember for the rest of your life. From the very first word to the final full stop, Mind The Gap is an absolute gem" – Kevin Brooks "A powerful, emotional and honest story … The setting and the dialogue feel real and raw, the pace is relentless and the resolution satisfying and clever" – Books for Keeps "A moving, funny, book which deals beautifully with the nature and strength of male friendship and boys' relationships with their dads" – BookTrust "A moving and meaningful story which captures the irreplaceable importance of friendship" – LoveReading4Kids

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Book SynopsisA heartwarming and insightful story for pre-teens from one of the best writers of the genre. Expertly told with a strong message of friendship and forgiveness at its heart. Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers aged 8+ When her family's circumstances suddenly change, Abi finds herself moving to the large and intimidating local high school. She's pretty nervous on her first day but soon meets someone she thinks she could be friends with – even best friends. But as the two girls bond over Abi's treasured snow globe, prejudices and stereotypes might just tear them apart. There's a lot to learn about friendships and forgiveness. Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers aged 8+

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Book SynopsisA brand new edition of the tender yet humorous tale of a bully who gets his comeuppance, now with cover artwork by the award-winning Catherine Rayner. Class bully Darren is challenged to a face-off with Olly the bull. Darren has no idea that Olly's a gentle giant. And the boy who set the challenge has no idea it's not Olly in the field! Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant and dyslexic readers aged 7+

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Book SynopsisThe classic laugh-out-loud horror that inspired the hit BBC series Young Dracula, now in an attractive low reading age edition, gloriously illustrated by Chris Mould throughout. Before Count Dracula became one of the greatest, most feared vampires of all time, he was just a young boy called Wilfred who didn't really feel like he belonged anywhere. But Wilfred's dad, the old Count, doesn't think his son is up to the task of being a great vampire! Can Wilfred show his father what he's really made of? Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant or dyslexic readers aged 7+Trade Review"Laugh-out-loud horror" – Summer Reading Challenge

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Book SynopsisA little mouse searches for the courage to save her home and make her squeak heard, in this touching Little Gem from the award-winning author of Izzy Gizzmo Crumbs on the counter, morsels on the floor – there should be plenty of food for Minetta the mouse to eat in Hollyhock House … But the Ruling Rats are running rampage every night, taking the best of everything for themselves. Minetta has decided that enough is enough – it’s time the rats learn to share. The trouble is, Minetta is so small and her voice just a squeak. How will she ever make them listen …? A gorgeous Little Gem about finding the courage to make your voice heard from Pip Jones the award-winning author of Izzy Gizzmo.Trade Review"A touching, heartfelt and funny story about making yourself heard, no matter how small your squeak is" – Lancashire Evening Post "A charming tale of finding your voice and being fun … This small and mighty mouse stands her ground with bravery and boldness and encourages her young readers to do the same" – Primary Teacher Bookshelf "The most delightful of reads. Madam Squeaker is an utterly gorgeous little story … I will be squeaking about and recommending it to all newly independent readers" – A Word About Books, Blog

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Book SynopsisStancliffe House. A sprawling old house in the hills of Yorkshire - and a new home for the Brooks family. But for Frances and her brother Tom, their first day in the house is their first day of fear and terror. There's a cold presence in a long corridor in their strange new home.

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Book SynopsisThe sleepy village of Dewbank is the perfect place to spend a summer holiday - that's what Tamsin, Paul and Chase think when they arrive. Then Mr Brandy tells them of the village's violent history. Does the ancient village bell tower, which has no bell, hold a secret? Is Mr Brandy all that he seems? What unknown horrors await them?

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Book SynopsisThe exciting true stories of heroes of the faith for 9– to 14–year olds This giftbox collection of colorful trailblazer stories will delight young minds. Each book in this box set contains the story of a man who stood up for what he believed in. These fascinating tales will draw readers in and inspire them to think about what things are worth fighting for. Three of the characters in this box set – John Calvin, John Knox and John Welch – were reformers, who preached God’s Word, no matter what it cost them. The other two characters – John Newton and William Wilberforce – recognised that slaves were people made in God’s image and fought to abolish the slave trade. These biographies follows the trailblazer’s journey to faith, and on to the work that God had planned for them. With lots of dialogue, these engaging stories show how God uses normal individuals to bring about his purpose. Each book in the Trailblazer series features: Thinking Further Topics for each chapter to help readers think about how what they’ve read applies to their life today Timeline of important events in the lifetime of each book’s subject John Knox went from being a bodyguard to a preacher of God’s Word. He stood with his convictions – biblical and political. Written by Catherine Mackenzie. John Calvin‘s ideas were radical, his life was filled with dramatic events and dangers. Find out how this great teacher changed the church. Written by Catherine Mackenzie, this book inclues a summary of Reformed theology and a bibliography. William Wilberforce fought to bring freedom and relief from the terrors of the slave trade; it took him forty–five years. Written by Derick Bingham, this book includes Books for Further Reading, Places to Visit, a Prayer Diary and a Life Summary of William Wilberforce. John Welch fell in with the wrong crowd – then he met God. Find out how he became an adventurous preacher couldn’t be stopped even by a canon ball. Written by Ethel Barrett, this book includes a Life Summary of John Welch and John Knox, maps of the countries where John Welch lived, and a summary of what life was like before the Reformation. John Newton travelled the oceans to make money from slaves. Find out how God changed his heart and life so that the slave ship captain sought to free slaves instead. Written by Irene Howat this book includes a Prayer Diary.

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Book SynopsisA book was sitting lonely on the shelf, waiting to be read. Tired of having no one to talk to, it decided to make a promise to potential readers: 'You keep turning my pages, and I'll make it fun!' Packed full of interactive jokes and games, The Book No One Wants to Read is a riotously colourful, mischievous book with a mission: to hook in even the most reluctant of readers.Trade Review'Wordplay, jokes, and bright graphics abound in this irresistible, interactivebook', Mary Quattlebaum, author of TogetherForever! True Stories ofAmazing Animal Friendships'If a book could read itself out loud, invite you to play, and all the whilejuggle tea and cake for two, this would be that book', Wendy Wahman, authorof Pony in the City

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Book SynopsisInspire your child''s love of reading and ignite their imagination with this collection of 12 short stories for young readers to enjoy independently or as part of story time. Each story is accompanied by charming black-and-white illustrations.

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