Children & Teen Fiction Books

Book SynopsisHealthy foods for kids are introduced through what cute, fun animals eat What's on the menu today for Cat, Mouse, Rabbit, Monkey, Pig, and Bear? Young readers find out what each animal likes to eat in this board book with bold, bright illustrations and inventive cut-outs. Children realize they like to eat some of the same foods and discover a special treat at the end of the book.Trade Review"I would buy everything from this illustrator. Very bright colours and cute characters. Our 9 months old really enjoys it!" — Yiting, Reader Review"I cannot get enough of this author's board books! Absolutely adorable . . . The board books are sturdy & durable (thick pages), and will survive your toddler's attempts to pull, eat, bend any aspects of the book. The images are adorable and the messages are simple and wonderful." — Paula Z, Reader Review

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Book SynopsisIn this engaging and moving middle grade novel, Saadia Faruqi writes about a contemporary Pakistani American girl whose passion for journalism starts a conversation about her grandmother’s experience of the Partition of India and Pakistan—and the bond that the two form as she helps Dadi tell her story. When her grandmother comes off the airplane in Houston from Pakistan, Mahnoor knows that having Dadi move in is going to disrupt everything about her life. She doesn’t have time to be Dadi’s unofficial babysitter—her journalism teacher has announced that their big assignment will be to film a documentary, which feels more like storytelling than what Maha would call “journalism.”As Dadi starts to settle into life in Houston and Maha scrambles for a subject for her documentary, the two of them start talking. About Dadi’s childhood in northern India—and about the Partition that forced her to leave her ho

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Book SynopsisThe Secret Life of Oceans is a collection of delightful stories and engaging facts, which imparts a love of Oceans and  nature on the next generation, inspiring them to look after the world around them. Did you know that blue whales are the largest creatures on earth ? And that corals are actually tiny creatures? Let Tia the green turtle guide you through this beautiful first guide to oceanlife around the globe. Learn about ocean homes and who lives where, big creatures (whales and whale sharks), little creatures (baby animals to zooplankton), incredible journeys, sea weather, and how to help save our oceans. Read magical folklore sea stories from around the planet, too. Tia has learnt much on her travels and she will be a great guide for young readers, perhaps inspiring them to develop a lifelong love of life under the ocean. Following on from The Secret of Trees,

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Book SynopsisBest-selling author Rick Riordan presents J. C. Cervantes''s exciting new spin-off from the best-selling STORM RUNNER trilogy, featuring the shadow bruja Ren vs. Aztec gods.Shadow bruja Ren Santiago, daughter of the Maya goddess of time, suspects that five roguegodborn kids are trying to awaken the dangerous Aztec Lords of Night. With none of her other friends available, Ren has to team up with a teen hybrid demon and an eleven-year-old hunter to stop them. But this is no ordinary challenge. It could well be an impossible one that leaves Ren questioning her very existence.Anyone who enjoys fast-paced myth-based adventures will be swept up in this one featuring Maya and Mexica gods and their magical offspring.Endorsed by Rick Riordan, author of the Disney+ hit series Percy Jackson and the Olympians.

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Book SynopsisIt only takes one strike: A powerful feminist reworking of the Hans Christian Andersen classic, from bestselling and award-winning creators Emma Carroll and Lauren Child. 'Superb.  About community and voices and standing up for yourself’ Phil Earle, British Book Award-winning author of When the Sky Falls Bridie works hard to feed her family, selling matches on the streets of Victorian London. After an incident leaves her with only three matches left, the magical strike of each one sees her tumble into visions of a brighter future. Realizing she has the power to change her own fortune, Bridie leads the match factory workers out on strike, achieving the remarkable through their unity and courage. A defiant and empowering retelling of the classic you thought you knew, based on real-life events, this stunning collaboration brought to life in glorious spot colour introduces a bold new heroine for future gene

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Book SynopsisGet ready to meet Violet Remy-Robinson – an amateur Sherlock Holmes in the making – in the second book of this delightful young detective series, perfect for fans of Robin Stevens, Enid Blyton and Anisha, Accidental Detective!‘There is a new girl sleuth on the block’ The TimesViolet has spent her holidays exploring India with Godmother Celeste, including visiting Celeste's good friend the Maharajah and meeting his very special cockatoo. But when she returns home, Violet gets a surprise visit from the Maharajah's butler, asking her to look after the bird. Violet couldn't be more amazed (and her cat Pudding couldn't be less pleased . . .), but the cockatoo holds the key to the Maharajah's fortune, and someone is trying to bird-nap her! Can Violet discover who the culprit is before they succeed?Beautifully designed and filled with Becka Moor'

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Book SynopsisThe runaway romance now a major motion picture streaming on Netflix, starring Virginia Gardner and Alex Aiono! Two teens embark on a journey to Spain to discover the meaning of love, death and everything in between in this star-crossed love story for fans of The Fault in our Stars, Five Feet Apart and All the Bright Places.Mia has had a heart condition her whole life. She’s not afraid of dying but something has always stopped her from her biggest fear: tracking down her biological mother in Spain . . . until now. Kyle has always been the life of the party . . . that was until the car accident that killed his best friend. Now he’s willing to do just about anything to escape his reality.   After a twist of fate, Mia and Kyle meet and make the decision to travel to Spain together for a once-in-a-lifetime road trip. But what starts a

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Book Synopsis'Go down the crater of the volcano Snaefells. Follow the shadow just before the month of July. You will find your way to the center of the Earth. I did it'. That mysterious message, found in a long-lost letter, propels a young man and his uncle on the adventure of a lifetime: to a prehistoric world below the earth.

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Book SynopsisLove Cathy Cassidy or Jacqueline Wilson? Don''t miss this gorgeous new series set in the heady world of gymnastics.Ellie has a dream to become a world-class gymnast. When she's offered a place at the prestigious London Gymnastics Academy, it looks like she has a chance to make that dream come true. But there are many obstacles to overcome, new friends to make, and rivalries to face! Will she make it, against all the odds?Making the Grade is the first book in the Somersaults and Dreams series, a rollercoaster ride full of friendship, rivalries, setbacks and triumphs, with echoes of classic stories like Ballet Shoes. Perfect for children aged 9 years and up.Also look out for:Rising StarGoing for GoldCate Shearwater lives in Wiltshire with her husband and two children. She was gloriously bad at gymnastics when she was younger but luckily the cartwheels skipped a generation and Somersaults and Dreams was written for Cate''s gymnastic fantastic daughter, Elsie, and all her fabulous squad mTrade Review'[Somersaults and Dreams] really captures a dream that so many young girls have and it reminds me of the early stages of my career. It's inspiring ...and I will definitely be telling the girls at my gym to go and read it!' -- Lynne Hutchinson, GB Rhythmic Olympic and Commonwealth Gymnast

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Book SynopsisA magical fairy story about believing in yourself, perfect for children learning to read. From the author ofDilly the Dinosaur.Flora the Fairy enjoys school. But one day, her teacher tells them they will be tested on their magic skills the next day. They have to change the class dragon, Smoky, into something else, and back again. All the children start practising but, try as she might, Flora can''t remember the words of the spell. She keeps getting it wrong! Even her friend Harry can do it right what will Flora''s mummy and daddy say when she doesn''t pass the test?Luckily, Flora''s parents, with the help of Nana and Grandpop, show Flora that all she needs to do is relax. They have great fun changing things into other things at home. And the following day, Flora passes the test with flying colours!The Reading Ladder series helps children to enjoy learning to read. It features well-loved authors, classic characters and favourite topics, so that children will find something to excite an

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Book SynopsisA true story of two brothers and the war that changed everything.Michael Morpurgo's wonderful storytelling and Barroux's stunning artwork combine to tell the true story of Michael's uncles against the epic backdrop of World War Two.Francis and Pieter are brothers. As shadow of one war lingers, and the rumbles of another approach, the brothers argue. Francis is a fierce pacifist, while Pieter signs up to fight. What happens next will change the course of Francis's life forever and throw him into the mouth of the wolf.-Michael Morpurgo has written over one hundred books and won many awards. In 1976 Michael and his wife Clare started the charity Farms For City Children, which aims to relieve the poverty of experience of young children from inner city and urban areas. In 1999 they were awarded the MBE for their work in creating these farms and in 2006 Michael received an OBE. His novel War Horse has been adapted into a hugely successful and critically acclaimed West End play.Michael is a

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Book SynopsisThe bestselling children's books series for over 50 years!Mr Grumpy has a shocking bad temper. In fact, he''s quite the most bad-tempered person you can imagine. Grumpy by name, and even more grumpy by nature!The Mr Men and Little Miss have been delighting children for generations with their charming and funny antics. Bold illustrations and funny stories make Mr Men and Little Miss the perfect story time experience for children aged two up. Have you met them all?Trade Review‘The colourful characters have been delighting children since Mr Tickle first appeared on bookshelves in 1971.' The Independent 'The timeless Mr Men books capture modern stereotypes perfectly.' The Telegraph 'The Mr Men and Little Miss characters remain a cultural phenomenon, whose impact is felt far beyond the nursery bookshelf.' The Telegraph Top 100 Children’s Book – Junior Magazine, 2019

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Book SynopsisThe bestselling children's books series for over 50 years!Poor Jack Robinson is ill in bed and feeling very sorry for himself and then suddenly along comes Mr Cool to cheer him up.The Mr Men and Little Miss have been delighting children for generations with their charming and funny antics. Bold illustrations and funny stories make Mr Men and Little Miss the perfect story time experience for children aged two up. Have you met them all?Trade Review‘The colourful characters have been delighting children since Mr Tickle first appeared on bookshelves in 1971.' The Independent 'The timeless Mr Men books capture modern stereotypes perfectly.' The Telegraph 'The Mr Men and Little Miss characters remain a cultural phenomenon, whose impact is felt far beyond the nursery bookshelf.' The Telegraph Top 100 Children’s Book – Junior Magazine, 2019

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Book SynopsisThe trials of high school start to feel like a modern-day witch hunt for a teen with all the wrong connections to Salem''s past in this thrilling, creepy and romantic New York Times bestseller.I am utterly addicted to Adriana Mather's electric debut. It keeps you on the edge of your seat, twisting and turning with ghosts, witches, an ancient curse, and sigh romance. Jennifer NivenAfter Sam''s father is hospitalised, she has to move from New York to Salem with her stepmother, Vivian. Unfortunately, Sam is related to Cotton Mather, one of the men responsible for the Salem Witch Trials, and to say she feels unwelcome in Salem is an understatement... She is particularly unnerved by The Descendants, a mysterious and tight-knit group of girls related to those persecuted in the Trials. At the same time, she must deal with Elijah, the handsome but angry ghost who has appeared in her house, and her new neighbour Jaxon only complicates thingTrade ReviewI am utterly addicted to Adriana Mather’s electric debut. It keeps you on the edge of your seat, twisting and turning with ghosts, witches, an ancient curse, and – sigh – romance. It’s beautiful. Haunting. The characters are vivid and real. I. Could. Not. Put. It. Down. * Jennifer Niven, New York Times bestselling author of All the Bright Places and Holding Up the Universe *It’s like Mean Girls meets history class in the best possible way. * Seventeen.com *A captivating and highly recommended read. Teens will not want this tale to end. * School Library Journal *[A]n entertaining story that draws intriguing parallels between the 17th-century trials and modern-day bullying. * Publishers Weekly *A story about curses, peer pressure, and legacies. * B&N Teen Blog *

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Book SynopsisJulian, Dick, Anne, George and Timmy the dog find excitement and adventure wherever they go in Enid Blyton''s most popular series.It''s so terribly hot, the Famous Five are having a lazy afternoon... but the gang don''t get the peace and quiet they imagined! What are the men on the motorbikes up to? Can they be stopped?In addition to the Famous Five novels, Enid Blyton wrote a clutch of short stories based on the characters. These were published in magazines and collected in the Famous Five Short Story Collection (Hodder). For the first time, the complete and original text of A Lazy Afternoon (1956) appears in an individual volume, illustrated with brand new colour art by Jamie Littler.Trade ReviewFresh new illustrations in a full-colour format create a tempting first chapter book that brings Blyton to a younger audience, whilst maintaining her original text. * Katie Clapham (Storytellers, Inc. - Lytham St Annes) *The classic tales have been brought bang up to date with colour illustrations by Jamie Littler... the Famous Five haven't lost any of their charm. * Emma Lee-Potter *These individual stories have been given a very modern production with creative use of font and layout and zany modern full colour illustrations. * The School Librarian *

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Book SynopsisThe classic boarding-school series from the best-loved author of the Famous Five - loved by readers for more than 70 years.

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Book SynopsisA wonderful new collection of short stories about our favourite fluffy friends, from national treasure Enid Blyton.

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Book SynopsisGecko is Frustrated offers a gentle introduction to the concept of frustration for young children, helping them find ways to recognise and deal with their frustrated feelings.This funny, charming story is the perfect way to introduce young children to frustration. Also included are suggestions for activities and ideas to talk through together to help children understand their behaviour.Gecko often feels frustrated - when he has to wait or finds something difficult to do. When his frustration gets the better of him, he upsets Hippo. Gecko is sad. Can he find ways to manage his frustration and keep calm?The Behaviour Matters series of picture books provide a gentle means of discussing emotions, 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 val

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Book SynopsisWolf Thinks of Others offers a gentle introduction to the concept of empathy and thinking of others for young children.This funny, charming story is the perfect way to introduce young children to the concept of empathy and thinking about other people. Also included are suggestions for activities and ideas to talk through together to help children understand their behaviour.Wolf never thinks about other people. He doesn''t share toys, and he doesn''t care when Hippo is hurt. But when his friends get cross with him, Wolf is upset. Can he start thinking of others?The Behaviour Matters series of picture books provide a gentle means of discussing emotions, 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.Trade ReviewExcellent for sharing and encouraging discussion... we can all learn from the approach taken in this series. * Parents in Touch *

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Book SynopsisWhen your best friend is a unicorn, magical adventures are guaranteed! Imagine a school where you meet your own unicorn and have amazing adventures together! That's what happens for the girls at Unicorn Academy on beautiful Unicorn Island.Layla can't believe how lucky she is to be at Unicorn Academy! She adores her lively unicorn, Dancer, though she's too nervous to go jumping and riding fast like their friends. When the trees around Sparkle Lake start dying, Layla must find her courage and take Dancer on a thrilling adventure to find the cure!With a glittery cover and beautifully illustrated throughout by Lucy Truman, Unicorn Academy is the perfect series for 7+ readers who love magic and adventure.Check out the other titles in this series: Sophia and Rainbow, Scarlett and Blaze, Isabel and Cloud and many more!

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Book SynopsisFire up young readers'' imagination and creativity with this classic story featuring added STEAM activities.This beloved children''s adventure is retold with vivid and engaging new illustrations and at the end of every chapter, there are exciting new science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics activities, themed around the events in the book. The activities range from simple puzzles to fun, dynamic experiments, so there''s something for every enquiring mind. It''s the ideal combination of enchanting story and stimulating science fun.

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Book SynopsisPeligan City, late November. Three months have passed since Lil and Nedly - Potkin and Stubbs - solved their first case. And now, at last, something new and unusual turns up: strange things are afoot at the doll hospital. But investigation turns up no more than an odd new owner. More important is the mysterious epidemic of deaths at the notorious Fellgate Prison. And when the Klaxon breaks the news that City Hall is hushing up that ghosts are real and are terrorising the city, mass hysteria reigns in Peligan City.Will Lil and Nedly get to the bottom of the case before any more trouble happens - and will they be the first to the scoop? Time to get to the library for help . . .Trade ReviewThis is mystery-solving by the two unlikely sleuths who made their first foray into detective work in the spring. They are back again with lots to solve and it makes compelling reading. * Angels & Urchins *

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Book SynopsisA boy selkie who takes girlness off like a sealskin, an untameable kelpie, the warrior-wife of a princess, and a Loch Ness monster who is too busy having fun to worry about words like “girl” or “boy”. This is the way the world is - with just a bit of Scottish myth and magic thrown in. Wain is a fully-illustrated collection of LGBT themed poetry aimed at teens (but suitable for all ages) based on retellings of Scottish folk tales. These poems immerse readers in an enriching, diverse and enchanting vision of contemporary life.Trade ReviewPlummer’s message of supportive positivity and self-affirmation through legend and myth reassures any young reader that there are so many shades of being — that it is important, though often hard, to be who you are or want to be, not what others demand or expect to you be. [...] These poems are a deeply humane and necessary way of rehabilitating the old with the new and I wish as a child I’d had access to such resources as the poems and paintings in Wain. -- Richie McCaffery * Poetry School *Rachel Plummer’s Wain represents an ideal project in the field of children’s/YA literature whose aim is to make the queer community feel like a welcomed and valid part of society, as it manages to harness and combine the educational power of folktales and the possibility of inclusive heritage. Though it is primarily targeting Scottish families, the fact itself that it is grounded in mythology gives it potential to appeal to readers all over the world. As such, Wain does not only fulfill the manifesto of LGBT Youth Scotland, but goes beyond it, helping not only Scotland, but the world be the best place to grow up for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex young people. -- Tereza Walsbergerová * Re:Views Magazine *

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Book SynopsisPeter is just an ordinary boy, who loves playing football with his friends and eating cake – until war comes to his city and the whole family have to go into hiding. This powerful graphic novel is based on a true story. “Engrossing, and superbly told in graphic format” – Books for Keeps “Told with amazing depth in a simple and effective way” – Angels and Urchins “This is a book that is needed now more than ever” – Read It, Daddy A United States Board on Books for Youth (USBBY) 2018 Outstanding International Book Trade Review"A well as the historical aspect, the book is very relevant to the situation in many countries today - we need to learn from the past, and books like this are excellent in helping the younger generation to understand these issues. It's emotional and dramatic, drawing the reader in superbly, and is accessible even for reluctant readers." * Parents in Touch *"Illustrated in graphic novel style, with the story told through a series of images and dialogue with short bursts of text. Although the events are horrific, there is always a sense of hope and the reader feels the courage of the Jewish families. It is even more poignant as at the end of the book we meet Peter and his family as they are now." * Books for Topics *"Because it is told from a young person’s perspective, there is an ignorance to what is actually happening around him – but from the action the reader will understand that Peter survived round-ups of Jewish people by moving hiding places several times, the only constant being a colouring book; he frequently faces hunger and cold. Despite the removal of the more harrowing elements of the Holocaust, the reader will understand that this was a horrific time, challenging and frightening for even the luckiest child." * Minerva Reads *"Moving, accessible and offering a less well-known perspective on WW11 and the Holocaust, with its skilful balance of illustration and text, this is definitely a book to include in a primary school KS2 collection." * Red Reading Hub *"Moving and vividly told." -- Fiona Noble * The Bookseller *"As Budapest crumbles around him, and Nazis search, seize, and deport friends and family, Peter and a cousin are moved to several hideouts in this biographical graphic novel. Juxtaposing the mundane aspects of life in hiding with the horror of why they have to hide gives this book its impact." * School Library Journal *"The warmth of humanity shines through the story. There are many great books retelling the experience of WW2 and this is special because of its graphic format which will capture some who might find continual text off-putting." * School Librarian *"This book, which establishes 'the right to life and to live in freedom and safety' could not be more pertinent for the current political climate, not only here in the UK, but also further afield." * IBBY Link *"Even young children will get a sense of what it means to become the custodian of a memory." * Jewish Chronicle *"An engrossing true story...superbly told in graphic format. Words and pictures are skillfully combined and from the start of this first person narrative, young readers will identify with Peter." * Books for Keeps 5 star review *"Helen's graphic illustrations are just right for this kind of book, and should go down well with quite young readers. Let's hope, too, that they can see the similiarities with what's happening today in far too many places. If it was wrong then, it's wrong now." * Bookwitch *"A true story about a young Jewish boy...told with amazing depth in a simpler and effective way. Our teen reviewer was very moved." * Angels and Urchins *"Learn, in an accessible way, more about the second world war...a moving and true story that will make readers think and help them to understand more about the experience of the war for children of their own age." * Armadillo *"Without a doubt, this is the sort of book that is needed now more than ever, to educate children about the terrible atrocities of war, and how ordinary children like themselves became caught up in the conflict, taken far away from their homes and everything they knew and loved. At times it's quite a tough read, certainly a title for older children but it imparts its story with sensitivity and thought. This is the sort of book we'd truly love to see championed in schools and libraries." * Read It, Daddy *"This moving, true story of the Second World War tells Peter's story in his own words, accompanied by excellent illustrations which really convey the sombre feel of the story. Moving and very effective." * Parents in Touch *"This début graphic novel delicately balances the horror of those war years with a child’s eye view of events, allowing young (and older) readers to gently explore some of the aspects of the Holocaust without it becoming overwhelming. There’s a great deal of humour, and a real sense that children will always be children, however bad things get, finding ways to make new friends and creating new games to play even in the darkest hours, thereby giving us hope for better things to come….Peter’s story is moving but also funny, horribly sad and sometimes frightening, before a page turn makes you smile. It is peppered with moments of laughter and is pitched just right for, say, upper Primary school aged kids." * Playing by the Book *"This is definitely a worthy entry to the non-fiction shelves for the very young… It's a non-scary but still evocative primer for the fact that you didn't have to live in Germany to suffer at the hands of Nazis." * The Book Bag *"This moving graphic novel is published in September 2016 and well worth pre-ordering. Peter is just an ordinary boy, who loves playing football with his friends and eating cake - until war comes to his city and the whole family have to go into hiding.." -- Sita Brahmachari * The Guardian *

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Book Synopsis A fast-paced, thought-provoking adventure story filled with friendship, war and the journey to find who we really are, from the author of The Monsters of Rookhaven. SHORTLISTED FOR THE IRISH BOOK AWARDS CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE YEAR 2018 NOMINATED FOR THE CILIP CARNEGIE AWARD 2019 'One of a kind. Utterly fantastic.' EOIN COLFER 'A big-hearted debut about friendship, belonging and what it means to be human.' THE BOOKSELLER 'Every so often you read a book that is so wonderful you wish you had written it - this book is one of those.' READING ZONE Christopher is ‘Proper’: a real boy with a real soul, orphaned in a fire. He works for an engineer, a maker of the eccentric, loyal and totally individual mechanicals who are Christopher’s best friends. But after a devastating accident, a secret is revealed and Christopher’s world is changed for ever ... What follows is a remarkable adventure, as Christopher discovers who he really is, and what it means to be human. A heartfelt tale of humanity, adventure and belonging, from the bestselling author of Pog and The Monsters of Rookhaven. Pinocchio meets The Wizard of Oz with a hint of Northern Lights as a boy and his mechanical friends discover the truth about his past. A thought-provoking and timely novel, with strong themes of friendship, war and what it really means to be human.

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Book SynopsisGet ready for battle… With everyone still healing after their encounter with the Faerie Queen, Ailsa MacAra had hoped to spend time with her long-lost brother. But something strange happened to Cameron in the land of the fae, revealing that the world is under threat. Wicked and powerful forces have come to Ossiana and war is brewing across the continent. There is only one way to stop it: find The Four Treasures and get ready for battle. It’s a race against time, but will the magical objects be enough to defeat a god?

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Book Synopsis‘I could feel it coming. War, I mean. Creeping up on us, into our town, down our street, into our house. Smiling like a friend, like it was Batman come to save us when really it was the Joker all along.’ With far-right Albion on the brink of war with Europe, ten-year-old Alan and his little brother Sam are sent away to safety. Dad tells Alan he has to be brave, like the superheroes he loves, but Alan isn’t too sure. He wants to be wherever Dad is, and, anyway – can he really be sure who’s a hero and who’s a villain? A heartwarming, heartbreaking story of acceptance, love and bravery in all its different forms, from the acclaimed author of Joe All Alone.

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Book SynopsisTonight I fancy a flight, so I shuffle my short feathers and jump... Take off on a night flight, have a monster's lunch, listen to birdsong, shout out the Apatosaurus rap and check out Alexander Fleming's petri dish. The read the note Cinderella left for her Ugly Sisters! A spectacular debut collection from an exciting new poet who is also a brilliant performer of her work in schools and festivals. Trade Review"An effervescent debut collection." * Achuka Book of the Day *"I predict this book will give laughter, thoughts, questions, comfort - and sow the seeds of a love for poetry in any young person who reads it or has it read to them. A must for every library, home and school. BIG recommendation." * Poetry Roundabout 5 star review *"What a brilliant debut collection of poetry..." -- Jo Bowers * Associate Dean, Cardiff Metropolitan University *"An outstanding new voice in children's poetry with her debut collection of varied, effervescent and thought-provoking poems." * Books Go Walkabout *"Fresh and accessible, there are shape poems, haiku, poems constructed for the sheer joy of hearing their words said aloud...a wonderful book." * Red Reading Hub *"A delight - lively, original and covering an eclectic range of subjects." * The Independent Best 10 Kids' Poetry Books *"A really lovely addition to a class poetry collection." * Reading Zone *"A stunningly original collection of accessible poems from the witty and wry to more thought-provoking and wise." -- Book Trust - Books we Love"I enjoyed the variety of subjects and perceptive interpretations, the humour and the originality. This book is a must for every school library and classroom collection, with much to enjoy for children reading the poems to themselves or for reading aloud." -- School Librarian"So clever and so funny." -- Mina Holland * Instagram - 25.5K followers *"This excellent debut has something for everyone. Fresh, original and full of a delightful mixture of the fun and the serious, this will have children aged 6-12 both laughing and reflecting. Rich in language and rhythm...themes include nature, science, space plus emotions and feelings and it will also be a really useful book for supporting empathy." -- Annie Everall * The Open University Top Reads *"This is the sort of book that erupts between the covers and spills out into the surrounding air in a way that only poetry has the capacity to do. A book to be read aloud to children of all ages and one which young readers will be enthralled by. These are visual poems both in their poetic structure and the brilliantly bold illustrations by Tania Rex." * Adventures in Home School *"Poems with a message or a moral can be a turn-off, but Laura manages to deal with them with a lightness of touch which makes them all the more effective...a lot to enjoy and provoke thought in pupils from a wide age-range." * NATE Teaching English *"Witty and unconventional." * Library Girl & Book Boy *"...equal parts beautiful and heartbreaking A wonderful example of how poetry can support in connecting, empathising with & making sense of experiences and emotions." -- Charlotte Hacking (CLPE)"A cornucopia of poetic delights, which are perfect for using in school. There is so much creativity and joy in these pages, making it a dream for inspiring children and encouraging them to play with words and ideas." * North Somerset Teachers' Book Awards blog *

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Book SynopsisTwenty-five days ago, something awful happened, and I made a promise to myself. Never to leave home again.Pete loves the pizza shop, where he lives with his dad, and is terrified of the outside world. But when a new restaurant steals their customers, Pete and his friend Anna have to come up with an INGENIOUS plan to sell more pizzas, otherwise he’ll be forced to move.When they find a mysterious briefcase in the attic, they create the most extraordinary magical pizzas, and soon a queue of customers snakes down the road. But can they make enough money in four days to save Pete’s home?Throw in an exploding headmistress, a fire-breathing dog and a vengeful bully and Pete’s life soon ramps up from Margherita to Spicy Pepperoni!Trade ReviewIt has all the reckless fun of George's Marvellous Medicine...a lively upbeat story that is as enjoyable as a Sloppy Giuseppe with all the toppings * The Times *Laugh-out-loud, slapstick humour… extravagant, fun-filled illustrations… tackles serious issues around mental health and bullying * Lancashire Post *A story of bravery, friendship, overcoming emotional hurdles and pizza! * Emily Curnow, Waterstones Bookseller *A hugely entertaining, heartwarming & hilarious story. Stuffed full of magical mishaps & memorable moments. * Jo Clarke, author *A hilarious, madcap pizza adventure with a poignant message about homes and families at its heart * Rebecca R, Goodreads review *

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Book Synopsis21 MILES revisits the much-loved protagonist of 29 LOCKS two years after his canal boat adventure as a fifteen-year-old. Older, wiser and more confident, life is going well for the former gang member who'd escaped a brutal life of criminal exploitation. But when Donny and his best friend Zoe plan a day trip to France ahead of their sixth form exams, Donny loses his passport and is arrested as an 'illegal' migrant. To survive, he must rely on the help of unaccompanied teenage refugees, living rough in the dunes east of Calais. Can Donny use his boat skills to cross the busiest shipping channel in the world and make it home? A fast-paced, tender and unflinching depiction of teenage friendship and resilience against the odds.Trade Review'Crafted with care & attention to detail, to encourage tween & teenage readers to think about the human stories behind the refugee headlines...gritty & gripping...beautifully written' V'sViewfromtheBookshelves;'A story whose sweeping beam illuminates a major injustices of our times'Pete Kalu, author of The Silent Striker series;'One of the best piece of fiction to come out of the refugee crisis' Anthony McGowan, Carnegie Medal winner;'A brilliang follow-up to 29 Locks. A true page-turner. A thrilling read for both children and adults'Juliet West, author of Before the Fall and the Faithful;

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Book Synopsis From the author of the Costa Award-winning Asha & the Spirit Bird and Tamarind & the Star of Ishta comes a atmospheric, magical adventure with a stunning twist ... 'A magical stormy adventure' THE TIMES 'A gem for readers of eight-plus' THE GUARDIAN 'A deliciously addictive, one-sitting type of read' NIZRANA FAROOK, AUTHOR OF THE GIRL WHO STOLE AN ELEPHANT 'A beautiful weaving of myth and magic ... Simply stunning' ZILLAH BETHELL, AUTHOR OF THE SHARK CALLER Aarti has lived on the island with Aunt for as long as she can remember. Like the weather, Aunt rules her world with rare warmth. Aarti's only comforts are a book of Indian myths full of blue gods, a fox's friendship, and a toy rabbit she finds in a locked room. Then, she learns Aunt has been feeding her lies. Fate intervenes when a half-drowned boy washes up on the beach. With his help, Aarti hopes to remember who she really is ... and perhaps find a way home. The mesmerising third novel from one of the most exciting writers of middle-grade fiction Jasbinder is the author of the Costa Book Award-winning Asha & the Spirit Bird and Indie Book Award-winning Tamarind & the Star of Ishta Themes of identity, faith and belonging with a stunning twist in an evocative and remote Scottish island setting

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Book SynopsisThe perfect gift for a young reader. Share your beloved childhood stories with the next generation! This beautiful edition of Frances Hodgson Burnett''s cherished children''s story brings together the complete and unabridged text with over seventy evocative illustrations and botanical studies by the award-winning artist Robert Ingpen.When spoiled rich girl, Mary Lennox, is orphaned, she is shipped from India to live in her uncle''s enormous manor in faraway England. Before long, Mary finds a key to a secret garden that has been left untouched for ten years, and a whole new world of enchantment opens up to her. For the first time she learns to make friends with the talented animal-charmer, Dickon, and her sickly cousin, Colin, who has been hidden away behind closed doors and together they reveal the garden''s haunting secrets.A full-colour illustrated edition of one of the world''s best loved stories. ''Ingpen''s drawings are utterly compelling'' Michael Morpurgo

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Book SynopsisIt''s never too soon to share your favourite classics with the next generation... This edition of Treasure Island has been adapted for younger readers and features: Simplified text A child-friendly layout, designed for young readers Full-colour illustrations by award-winning artist Robert Ingpen.When an old sea captain arrives at the Admiral Benbow inn with a mysterious sea chest and fearful talk of a man with one leg, the scene is set for one of the most popular adventure stories of all time. Young Jim Hawkins finds a treasure map among the captain''s belongings and, accompanied by his friends Doctor Livesey and Squire Trelawney, they set off in search of Captain Flint''s buried treasure.A full-colour illustrated edition of one of the world''s best loved stories. ''Ingpen''s drawings are utterly compelling'' Michael Morpurgo

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Book SynopsisAesop''s Fables belong to every one of us. They were once simply the words of a slave; a man who lived 600 years before Christ. They were written down by a Greek, and then a Roman, and they spread, like the armies of Rome, across the known world. They were told around heathen campfires, and noble hearths; whispered in sacred monasteries and churches; lectured in Victorian school rooms and acted out by children at play.Each little fable is bound up with 2000 years of wisdom and truth. From these we know that a mouse is too weak to withstand the strength of a lion, yet too mighty to be bound by ropes. We learn that the violence of the North Wind is no match for the gentle beaming of the unrelenting Sun. We know in our hearts that the sheep must push through life, and try to overcome its many dangers, that the wolf will trick and deceive to survive, and that we cannot pretend to understand the logic of the gods if we do not hold ourselves to the same standard.Therefore, Aesop''s Fables belong to all of us, as Stone Age cave paintings belong, not to the artist, but to human civilisation. It is a book about what it is to be human, cherished by each generation and passed on to the next.

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Book SynopsisAria lives on a well-ordered planet whose people have eradicated illness and even death. Earth is their ‘shadow planet’ which they populated with humans centuries ago so they could study them and learn from their experiences. Now the experiment is coming to an end and Aria must go to Earth with her scientist father to set off a train of events which will destroy its people. Brought up to believe that humans are inferior, Aria is shocked to discover that she is herself half human, and amazed to find that Earth-dwellers live life to the full and feel love for each other, even though they are mortal. But once she understands this, how can she save them, and herself, from destruction?Trade Review"What a phenomenal read and one of my books of the year for sure ... Stunning storytelling – a whole universe of emotions condensed into a sharp, intoxicating and thrilling adventure ... a solid, superbly written imagining that casts a light on how we live our lives ... Arresting, thought provoking and fresh." * Eve McDonnell, author of The Chestnut Roaster *"And what a book it is, a beautifully written, gripping, twisty science fiction novel set in the near future that examines what it means to be human." -- Sarah Webb * Irish Independent *"An unmissable, thrilling sci-fi short read." * Irish Independent *"An adventure full of suspense." * The Sunday Times *"The most casual reader of science fiction, young or old, can snuggle cozily into the arms of this novel." * The New York Times *"Suspenseful and thought-provoking." -- Kirkus Reviews"This is a compelling, high impact story that subtly presents many current issues; a thrilling adventure that manages to highlight issues such as climate change and the destructive nature of humans. The Girl Who Fell to Earth is fast paced and engaging, an easy read, and I thoroughly enjoyed it!" * ReadingZone *"It’s a page-turner.” * Connacht Tribune *"...there’s plenty of excitement and food for thought here." -- Books for Keeps"Another gripping fantasy adventure from Forde." * The Meath Chronicle *"Wow! Just…wow! ... a thrilling, edge-of-your-seat-type adventure; thought-provoking, heartfelt, oddly beautiful and very timely. Simply amazing." * Fallen Star Stories *"A great mix of reality and fantasy resulting in a wonderful heartfelt page turner." * Independent Book Reviews *"I was so thrilled to see this enticing title on the roster." -- A Fuse #8 Production"I couldn't put this book down ... If you're in a reading slump, this is a great one to get you back into it." * Posies Book Club *"I would recommend this book to anyone who likes aliens mystery and adventure because this book has lots of hidden secrets." -- Bot's Bookshelf"Since most readers will be humans, they'll quickly connect with and root for the victims in this book." * YA Books Central *"There are many social issues addressed here, but deep down this is an action/adventure/sci-fi story with twist and turns that raises interesting questions, and emphasizes interpersonal relationships." * Puget Sound Council for Reviewing Children's and Young Adult Literature *"This is a great book for students who enjoy a little science fiction, action, and some drama thrown into the mix." * NetGalley Educator *"This book is such a great concept! I loved everything about it. In fact- I didn't want it to end. I want to know more and have so many questions." * NetGalley Educator, 5 star review *

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Book SynopsisAnnie’s family is made of love. When her moms open up their bookshop in the mornings, there is always a mysterious pile of books on the counter. By evening, every book has found its ideal reader. But one day there is a book that doesn’t get bought. It has to lie there all on its own. Who can its reader be, and why don’t they come? Days pass, and the book with no owner gets lonelier and lonelier. The bookshop is unhappy, and the moms are worried that the shop isn’t making enough money. Then someone starts borrowing the book. Eventually, we realise it’s Annie’s sibling Charlotte — and it is a book about being non-binary. Mum explains what ‘non-binary’ means to Annie. Charlotte asks to be called Charlie and says that their pronouns are they/them. The bookshop cheers up. Customers start buying books again. This family is made of love.Trade Review"This brave, kind novel in verse explores gender identity in an original way." -- Sarah Webb * Irish Independent *"By emphasizing the ways in which books and bookstores serve as safe spaces, the importance of open and honest communication in relationships, and the power of unconditional love, Grehan offers a wholesome and affirming story suffused with warmth and populated by a supportive and compassionate cast. " -- Publishers Weekly, Starred Review"There is much for every reader to enjoy in this celebration of the wonders of bookshops and family love." * The Echo *"What a tender jewel of a book ... The Lonely Book was a balm and a blessing." * Deirdre Sullivan, author of Savage Her Reply *"A beautifully immersive, magical and timely tale of family, gender identity - and the importance of a good book! I binged Meg Grehan's The Lonely Book in one sitting, it's the perfect warm and love-filled escape for bookworms of all ages, especially those who've always believed in the magic of bookstores." * Aislinn O'Loughlin, author of Big Bad Me *"I love this. I adore the language, the idea ... I'm definitely going to be recommending this one highly!" * Read and Reviewed *"Simply breathtaking." * Karla Bookish Life, 5 star review *"Grehan's writing style is lovely ... I also deeply enjoyed the magical element of the story and how it emphasized how meaningful and even life-changing the right book can be for a person." -- Queer Big Foot'A Middle-Grade chapter book that tackles the diverse topic of gender identity uniquely and magically.' * YA Books Central *'This Lonely Book has traveled with me so many places and I have pulled it out and shared it again and again so maybe it's a little less lonely.' * Wandering Bookseller *'I absolutely loved this one. All of Meg Grehan’s books for young readers feel like a warm hug. They are lovely and compassionate tales that aim to include and empower young readers. I loved the subtle magic of the bookshop and the main character’s journey in supporting their sibling. Also love to see books in a two-mom household that mirror my future household. Will be recommending this one far and wide!' * NetGalley Reviewer, 5 star review *'They say don’t judge a book by it’s cover, but I was immediately drawn in when I saw the cover of The Lonely Book on NetGalley! It is such a sweet cover and it immediately conveys how warm and cozy the story inside is. I was also excited to see another book by Meg Grehan! I read one of her YA books, Baby Teeth, at the beginning of the year, and I adored it.' * NetGalley Reviewer, 5 star review *'Very cute and sweet! Annie’s love and care for her family and their home and the love her family had for each other was so heartwarming.' * NetGalley Librarian, 5 Star review *'This book was so gentle--with the reader, with the characters, with the subject matter. Even though there was a deep ache for the "lonely" book to find it's reader, there was also deep comfort in the book. I've read pretty much everything by Meg Grehan and remain a fan.' * NetGalley, 5 star review *'What a beautiful, magical story ... Gender identity and anxiety are areas with little representation in literature for this target age of 8-11 years old. This book is queer joy. You will laugh and cry and probably wish you could visit their magical bookstore yourself. Highly recommend.' * NetGalley Librarian, 5 star review *'This is a very sweet book that teaches children about gender identity in a very simple way.' * NetGalley Reviewer, 5 star review *'One of my favorite reads of the year. This heartwarming book about a magical bookstore reminds its readers just how important it is to love all that makes you you.' * NetGalley Reviewer, 5 star review *'This book was so sweet! It was a perfect little slice-of-life book with a touch of magical realism and a touching story to boot. It's definitely not just a book for younger people, either. As a queer adult, I found reading this book to be incredibly fulfilling.' * NetGalley Reviewer, 5 star review *'A book that is hard to put down once you open it. I think that this is a valuable book to have in any classroom or public library.' * Goodreads/NetGalley Librarian, 5 star review *'Grehan’s writing style is lovely, and she captured Annie’s youthful and inquisitive spirit so nicely, and it was so clear how much love she held for her moms and Charlie, her older sibling ... It was truly a wonderful read.' * NetGalley Reviewer, 5 star review *Praise for The Deepest Breath "Powerful in its simplicity ... A fierce reminder of the need for books that show readers of all kinds of love, as well as being this kind of book itself." * The Irish Times *Praise for The Deepest Breath ‘So utterly real ... Amazing to think it’s only Grehan’s second book.’ * The Irish Independent *Praise for Baby Teeth "Grehan’s verse novel skilfully charts uncertainty, temptation and the course of a strange, desperate love." * The Guardian *Praise for The Deepest Breath "Small in scope and big in heart and feeling, this novel is a tender portrait of gay early adolescence and a strong mother-daughter attachment." * Publishers Weekly *Praise for Baby Teeth "Grehan evocatively conjures Immy’s tragic sense of isolation and hard-won self-acceptance." * Financial Times *Praise for Baby Teeth "Emotionally rich and gloriously queer." * Kirkus, starred review *

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Book SynopsisJosh is such a worrier. He worries about everything. Water slides. School. Global warming. Sleepovers. But he knows something is really wrong when his mum and dad begin to act strangely... His family is moving to Brighton and he must start a new school with new teachers, new pupils and new everything! He used to have his own Worrybot - a home-made cardboard robot which was supposed to eat up his worst fears if he wrote them down on bits of paper and posted them into its mouth. It did help a bit ... but now Josh is terrified that his anxiety will return when he starts at his new school. And he is more than a bit surprised to discover that there's a robot in his new class - a real-life learning robot which sits on the desk next to his and allows classmate Charlie to join lessons remotely. Soon Charlie becomes Josh's best - perhaps his only - friend. Will Charlie's friendship help Josh overcome his fears, or will it just give nasty Noah more reasons to make fun of him? And why won't Charlie come to school anyway? A suspenseful story of emotional high stakes that will appeal to fans of Lisa Thompson, Ross Welford and Elle McNicoll.

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Book SynopsisWhen his best friend leaves town, Billy finds himself all alone as his world comes crashing down around him. Between swerving the bullies and looking after Mum, there seems to be no escape from his problems. However, when Mum gives him a second-hand book, everything changes. Billy finds himself drawn into an icy world of parallel universes where things aren't quite as they seem... The Second-Hand Boy is an emotional middle-grade story of overcoming mental health difficulties and loneliness, tackling life-changing problems head-on.

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Book SynopsisA third collection of funny and thoughtful poems from the Children's Laureate Wales, Alex Wharton, aimed at developing a love of language and self-expression. Readers will be excited by fun new characters like Mr Slime and the return of Hector the Horrible Hedgehog from first collection Daydreams and Jellybeans, as well as being introduced to powerful and moving poems such as 'Young Oak', 'The Long Way Home', and 'For a Quiet Day'. Superbly illustrated throughout by Ian Morris.

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Book SynopsisA guide to exploring, understanding and appreciating nature like never before. From a star being born to a fossil starting to form, discover the stories and science behind 40 wonders of the natural world.

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