Children & Teen Fiction Books

Book SynopsisEarly Readers are stepping stones from picture books to reading books. A blue Early Reader is perfect for sharing and reading together. A red Early Reader is the next step on your reading journey.Horrid Henry creates havoc at his birthday party.Read by Miranda Richardson

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Book SynopsisBook Band: Brown, ideal for ages 7+A spooky comedy from Chris Powling with hilarious illustrations by Loretta Schauer. Perfect for fans of Amelia Fang and Knitbone Pepper.A ghost has been haunting Ben''s grandpa''s house with cobweb trails and the TAP-TAP-TAP of its heartbeat. So when the clock strikes twelve, Ben''s brother dares him to go on a hunt for the ghost in the church graveyard. Will he be brave enough? This quirky story from Chris Powling has engaging black-and-white illustrations by Loretta Schauer and is perfect for children who are developing as readers. The Bloomsbury Readers series is packed with book-banded stories to get children reading independently in Key Stage 2 by award-winning authors like double Carnegie Medal winner Geraldine McCaughrean and Waterstones Prize winner Patrice Lawrence. With engaging illustrations and online guided reading notes written by the Centre for Literacy in Primary Education (CLPE), this series is idTrade ReviewAny list that brings together such a quality line up of authors is going to be welcomed… Bloomsbury Readers are aimed squarely at children in Key Stage 2 and designed to support them as they start reading independently and while they continue to gain confidence and understanding. -- Books for Keeps * Andrea Reece *

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“This delightfully modern take on a classic story is both fun and funny, sexy and sex positive, and if all that’s not enough, I have two more words for you: Jane Austen.” * Gayle Forman, author of If I Stay and We Are Inevitable *“Fresh is a book I wish had existed when I was a teenager: frank, laugh-out-loud funny, and a refreshing (pun intentional) peek behind the intimidating curtain that separates high school and college. The best part? Our intrepid narrator, Elliot McHugh: messy, imperfect, sincere, hilarious, and warm—a character you will miss long after the book is over.” * Veronica Roth, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Divergent series *“Margot Wood’s Fresh bubbles over with irreverence, humor, and heart, capturing teen spirit in all its incarnations and creating a new classic for a new generation.” * Danielle Paige, New York Times bestselling author *“Eliot McHugh is the bold, funny, and sex-positive friend you wish you had with you to help navigate freshman year of college.” * Sara Farizan, author of Tell Me Again How a Crush Should Feel *“I couldn’t stop reading! I was dying to know if Elliot would have a happy ending.” * Abigail Hing Wen, New York Times bestselling author of Loveboat, Taipei *Unabashedly sex-positive and queer. . .A fresh, funny, college-set, coming-of-age tale. * Kirkus Reviews *Strong secondary characters, including Elliot’s precocious younger sister and her matter-of-fact RA, reveal Elliot’s strengths and flaws, and character discussions around consent and sexual discovery ring true. * Publishers Weekly *Wood’s debut is fun, written in an effervescent voice that dares readers to take the risks Elliot does—and to fall in love with her along the way. * Booklist *

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Book SynopsisBook Band: Brown - Ideal for ages 7+A spooky school-set mystery from Michaela Morgan. Perfect for fans of Anne Fine and Pamela Butchart.There''s a thing in the basement of Scott''s new school and it''s a thing only Mr Crawley can control. There''s a thing in the basement of Scott''s new school and it flashes and ROARS! There''s a thing in the basement of Scott''s new school and surely it can''t be a dragon... or can it?This mysterious adventure from Michaela Morgan has quirky black-and-white illustrations by Doffy Weir and is perfect for children who are developing as readers.The Bloomsbury Readers series is packed with book-banded stories to get children reading independently in Key Stage 2 by award-winning authors like double Carnegie Medal winner Geraldine McCaughrean and Waterstones Prize winner Patrice Lawrence. With engaging illustrations and online guided reading notes written by the Centre for Literacy in Primary Education (CLPE), this series is ideal foTrade ReviewThe Thing in the Basement explores how it feels to be the new kid at school and introduces children to the immense power of their own imagination. Good fun to share aloud, it's also a wonderful title for building confidence in young readers who are becoming more independent. A thrilling story about friendship, courage and coping with change.' * The School Librarian *

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Book Synopsis Perfect for fans of Ivy & Bean and Stella Diaz, Marya Khan and the Spectacular Fall Festival is the third adventure in Saadia Faruqi and Ani Bushry’s illustrated chapter book series about a Pakistani American third-grader whose ambition sometimes gets away from her. Marya loves fall. Every year, her family goes to the town’s pumpkin patch and picks out the best pumpkin. But this year, after she sees her frenemy Alexa winning a big, cool pumpkin-shaped trophy, Marya knows she’s got to win a trophy for something. It just so happens that her school is going to hold a fall festival, with games and food and even a hayride. All the ticket sales will go to an animal shelter, and the person who sells the most tickets will win a prize. Cue Operation Sell Tickets! But when Marya is so focused on winning, is she losing sight of what really matters?Includes a Pumpkin-Based Recipe to Make and Enj

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Book SynopsisBook Band: Grey - Ideal for ages 8+A magical retelling of the story of the legendary Welsh bard Taliesin, perfect for fans of The Wizards of Once and The Firework Maker''s Daughter.On the most magical day of the year, the unluckiest man in the whole of Wales finds a baby floating in the river. But Taliesin is no ordinary baby not only can he talk, but he is also a magician, prophet, poet and trickster. As the years pass, Taliesin transforms the lives of all he meets, for better or worse...This enchanting version of a Welsh myth from Maggie Pearson has intricate black-and-white illustrations by David Wyatt and is perfect for children who are developing as readers.The Bloomsbury Readers series is packed with book-banded stories to get children reading independently in Key Stage 2 by award-winning authors like double Carnegie Medal winner Geraldine McCaughrean and Waterstones Prize winner Patrice Lawrence. With engaging illustrations and online guide

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Book SynopsisTrade Review***STARRED REVIEW*** "A quick, compelling, and creepy collection that’s sure to be a reader favorite." * Kirkus *Mejia’s storytelling is on-point with deliciously chilling moments and brilliant pacing. Readers will return for repeat thrills and chills. A recommended first purchase * School Library Journal *Mejia’s storytelling is compelling, with natural dialogue and well-paced scares that carry seamlessly through the different styles of each illustrator, which range from bold lines and limited color palettes to expressively quirky character designs and lurid colors. An excellent creepy collection perfect for Halloween. * Booklist *

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Book SynopsisAuthor Ana Ellickson’s The Vanishing Station is a lyrical and bold YA debut about an underground magic system in San Francisco—and the lengths one girl is willing to go to protect the ones she loves.   Eighteen-year-old Filipino American Ruby Santos has been unmoored since her mother’s death. She can’t apply to art school like she’s always dreamed, and she and her father have had to move into the basement of their home and rent out the top floor while they work to pay back her mother’s hospital bills.   Then Ruby finds out her father has been living a secret life as a delivery person for a magical underworld—he “jumps” train lines to help deliver packages for a powerful family. Recently, he’s fallen behind on deliveries (and deeper into alcoholism), and if his debts aren’t satisfied, they’re going to take her mother’s house. In an effort to protect her father an

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Book SynopsisBook Band: Dark Blue - Ideal for ages 9+An atmospheric retelling of the story of Macbeth, perfect for fans of Viking Boy and Janina Ramirez.One dark and stormy night, two men come across three witches who foretell the future. One man is promised a royal future as king, the other that his son will rule one day. But King Duncan still lives and the path to the throne is unclear. What follows next is murder most foul...This atmospheric retelling of William Shakespeare''s Macbeth from much-loved author Tony Bradman has haunting black-and-white illustrations by Mark Oldroyd and is a perfect introduction to Shakespeare''s classic story.The Bloomsbury Readers series is packed with book-banded stories to get children reading independently in Key Stage 2 by award-winning authors like double Carnegie Medal winner Geraldine McCaughrean and Waterstones Prize winner Patrice Lawrence. With engaging illustrations and online guided reading notes written by the Centre for

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Book SynopsisRobin Gow’s Gooseberry is a moving middle-grade novel about a young nonbinary person searching for family and finding it with a sweet rescue dog. There’s a lot twelve-year-old B doesn’t know—like what their new name should be after coming out as nonbinary. Or what it would feel like to finally feel at home after moving around to different foster families for years. But there’s one thing B does know: they want to be a dog trainer when they grow up. And when they meet Gooseberry—a feisty stray dog who seems as wary of strangers as B does—B feels an instant connection. With Gooseberry, B could have everything they want: a family of their own, and a dog to train. And B’s newest foster parents agree to let B adopt him. But training a dog isn’t as easy as B expected. Gooseberry is anxious and barely lets B pet him, let alone train him. Will Gooseberry ever feel at ease with B? And how can B teach Gooseberry t

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Book SynopsisRay Stoeve’s Summer Love Strategy is a sweet and swoony YA rom-com about two friends making a pact to find summer romance like they’ve seen in the movies—and finding love where they least expect it along the way!   Hayley always has a crush. The problem is, her crushes never like her back. After her latest unrequited love—a girl from her basketball team—gets a boyfriend, she decides she’s done falling for girls who are unavailable. Her best friend, Talia, wants romance too, but rarely gets crushes on anyone, and she’s tired of watching Hayley get her heart stomped on over and over. So the two girls make a pact: they’ll help each other find summer love by putting themselves in situations that always lead to romance in movies.   To help carry out their summer love strategy, they make a list of all the places they could find their real-life rom-com: the beach, the Pride parade, the pool, a MUNA

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Book SynopsisBook Band: Turquoise (Ideal for ages 6+)A new Caribbean take on a traditional story, ideal for children practising their reading at home or in school.An old woman dreams that a gingerbread man will make her happy so she bakes a beautiful one. But as soon as he''s out of the oven, he has other ideas! He''s fast enough to outrun the old woman and her husband but half the village wants to eat him. How can this possibly make the old woman happy? Kandace Chimbiri''s retelling of The Gingerbread Man has a Caribbean twist and is perfect for Key Stage 1 (KS1) children who are learning to read by themselves. It features illustrations from Richy Sánchez Ayala and an entertaining chase that children will love._______________Bloomsbury Young Readers are the perfect way to get children reading, with book-banded stories by brilliant authors like Julia Donaldson. The series is ideal for both home and school, with gorgeous colour illustrations, tips for parents, and fun Trade ReviewPRAISE FOR BLOOMSBURY YOUNG READERS Written by favourite authors, these are well worth collecting and are just the thing for children ready for reading. -- Andrea Reece * Lovereading4kids *Kandace Chimbiri gives her lively telling a Caribbean flavour with this wonderfully aromatic character being chased by its old lady baker, an old man, a clutch of chickens, a horse, and a scary looking dog to the river’s edge. -- Jill R Bennett * Red Reading Hub *

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Book Synopsis From bestselling and award-winning Itty-Bitty Kitty-Corn creators, author Shannon Hale and illustrator LeUyen Pham, Things That Go is an original concept board book showing young Kitty-Corns things that race, fly, pedal, paddle, and goTeeny-tiny mini-moo Kitty-corns will read with you. Pitter-patter fast and slow let’s explore some things that go! From sports cars to bumper cars, skateboards to hoverboards, submarines to trampolines, and every silly vehicle in between, Kitty and Unicorn demonstrate the many ways to ZOOM! in this original board book. Also Available:Bubbly Beautiful Kitty-Corn Party-Hearty Kitty-Corn Pretty Perfect Kitty-Corn Itty-Bitty Kitty-Corn

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Book SynopsisBook Band: Dark Red (Ideal for ages 10+)A vibrant retelling of Shakespeare's The Tempest told through the voice of Ariel, written by Franzeska G. Ewart.A year has passed since Ariel's storm brought a shipwreck to the magical island. Now freed from slavery, Ariel returns to the island and remembers the events of that fateful day. The day that love blossomed, fools were exposed, and traitors were brought to justice. Franzeska G. Ewart's imaginative recreation of The Tempest by William Shakespeare has beautiful black-and-white illustrations by David Wyatt and is perfect for children who are developing as readers.The Bloomsbury Readers series is packed with book-banded stories to get children reading independently in Key Stage 2 by award-winning authors like double Carnegie Medal winner Geraldine McCaughrean and Waterstones Prize winner Patrice Lawrence. With engaging illustrations and online guided reading notes written by the Centre for Literacy in Trade ReviewAny list that brings together such a quality line up of authors is going to be welcomed … Bloomsbury Readers are aimed squarely at children in Key Stage 2 and designed to support them as they start reading independently and while they continue to gain confidence and understanding. -- Andrea Reece * Books for Keeps *

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Book SynopsisThe Monster High ghouls are back and more spooktacular than ever in this all-new, original middle grade series set in the world of Nickelodeon’s animated show and written by Adrianna Cuevas! As Monster High prepares for its annual talent show, Frankie Stein is left wondering what they could perform. When Torelei Stripe mocks Frankie’s music playing abilities, Frankie is left even more confused about which of their brain parts is exciting enough for the talent show. Luckily, Headmistress Bloodgood presents Frankie with new information about their brain that might hold the answer. Except Frankie discovers that their brain part is from a disgraced scientist accused of unethical experiments. Plagued by dreams from the scientist’s life, Frankie teams up with Draculaura and Clawdeen to discover the truth about their past—and save Monster High in the process.Trade ReviewWith its cinematic pacing and contemporary slant told through a fantasy lens, expect readers of series such as Percy Jackson to find much to enjoy here. Satisfying and substantial. * Kirkus *

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Book SynopsisThis edition of the classic story from bestselling illustrator Daniel Kirk includes charming punch-out gift tags. When Father Mouse is awakened on Christmas Eve by a clatter outside his window, he catches a glimpse of the one and only Santa Claus! Father Mouse can hardly believe his eyes as he watches St. Nick come down the chimney with a pack full of toys. In this amusing twist on the classic poem by Clement C. Moore, Daniel Kirk reimagines the story from a fresh perspectiveand readers of Kirk's Library Mouse series may discover a familiar friend, too! This paperback will be a welcome gift under your little one's Christmas tree, and the gift tags will come in handy.

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Book SynopsisReturn to Kristin Cashore''s captivating Graceling Realm with a heart-wrenching tale set eight years after the events of Fire Eight years have passed since the young Princess Bitterblue and her country were saved from the vicious King Leck. Now Bitterblue is the queen of Monsea, and her land is at peace.But the influence of her father, a violent psychopath with mind-altering abilities, lives on. Her advisers, who have run the country on her behalf since Leck''s death, believe in a forward-thinking plan: to pardon all of those who committed terrible acts during Leck''s reign; and to forget every dark event that ever happened. Monsea''s past has become shrouded in mystery, and it''s only when Bitterblue begins sneaking out of her castle - curious, disguised and alone - to walk the streets of her own city, that she begins to realise the truth. Her kingdom has been under the thirty-five-year long spell of a madman, and now their only chance to moveTrade ReviewThis is gorgeous storytelling: exciting, stirring, and accessible - SCHOOL JOURNALA WOW of a book. I HAD to know how it endedThere aren't enough words to describe how awesome this book is - ROMANTIC TIMESSome authors can tell a good story; some can write well. Cashore is one of the rare novelists who do both. Thrillingly imagined and beautifully executed, Bitterblue stands as a splendid contribution in a long literary tradition - The New York Times Book ReviewBrilliantly detailed and brimming with vibrant and dynamic characters - SLJ, starred review of BitterblueThere are some books that stick with you for years, and Kristen Cashore's Fire is one of them. Thoughtful, steamy and completely original, Fire is YA fantasy at its absolute best - Sabaa Tahir, author of New York Times bestselling Ember in the Ashes on Fire

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Book Synopsis Celebrate feelings in all their shapes and sizes with the ultimate gift—the deluxe slipcased edition of In My Heart: A Book of Feelings, the New York Times bestselling picture book from author Jo Witek and illustrator Christine Roussey! Happiness, sadness, bravery, anger, shyness . . . our hearts can feel so many feelings! Some make us feel as light as a balloon, others as heavy as an elephant. With lyrical text, In My Heart explores a full range of emotions, empowering readers to practice articulating and identifying their own emotions. Along with the same beautifully whimsical illustrations and irresistible, multi-colored die-cut heart that extends through each spread, this deluxe edition also features: A gorgeous die-cut slipcase patterned with glossy hearts. Fancy foil accents on the book's front cover. Foil on the interior of the book highlighting the first and last of the die-cut heart

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Book SynopsisNew friends, new lands, and all-new Pokémon: Return to one of the greatest adventures!Most kids spend their days at school, but not Hareta. Raised in the wild by Pokémon, he can climb as high as an Aipom, swim as fast as a Magikarp, and even eat bark like a Bidoof!Go for Giratina!Hareta''s father urges him to hurry up and find the Legendary Pokémon Giratina. But someone else is on the trail! Then Cyrus goes missing. Is he in need of a rescue? Plus--a Pokémon is born! All this and a bonus story, Return to Hareta''s Home Forest!

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Book Synopsis''A sharp and harrowing mystery for the digital age . . . I inhaled this book like a gulp of fresh air after a long swim'' LAUREN THOMANFROM THE NYT BESTSELLING AUTHOR OF BEFORE I FALL When true-crime writer Rachel Vale and her daughter, Lucy, move into the abandoned Faraday House at the end of Lily Lane, they already know its tragic history . . . That''s why they came. Rachel hopes that untangling the muddled case of the Faradays might help her solve another puzzle: her daughter.But the small Midwestern town of Granger remembers the Faradays, and the residents do not take well to strangers pulling apart their mysteries. They will do whatever it takes to protect their own.As Rachel ignores the threatening notes on the doorstep and her daughter''s increasingly erratic behaviour, she unwinds a case of old money, historic rivalries and online abuse. But soon it becomes clear that she might be investigating the wrong story after all . . .

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Book SynopsisBased on John Rocco's childhood experience during the Blizzard of 1978, this companion to BLACKOUT is the story of how one intrepid boy embarks on an expedition and becomes the hero of his neighborhood.Blizzard is based on John Rocco's childhood experience during the now infamous Blizzard of 1978, which brought fifty-three inches of snow to his town in Rhode Island. Told with a brief text and dynamic illustrations, the bookopens with a boy’s excitement upon seeing the first snowflake fall outside his classroom window. It ends with the neighborhood’s immense relief upon seeing the first snowplow break through on their street. In between the boy watches his familiar landscape transform into something alien, and readers watch him transform into a hero who puts the needs of others first. John uses an increasing amount of white space in his playful images, which include a gatefold spread of the boy's expedition to the store. Th

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Book SynopsisJoin the celebrations as a class full of kids discovers how cultures around the world observe the new year. From Laos to Mexico, China to Scotland, Iran to Nicaragua, and more,A Year of Celebraciones follows the main character?s continuing cultural education as she learns about how different kids and families she knows celebrate New Year?s. Traditions include decorations, gifts, foods, and gatherings. This exciting tour of the globe will encourage kids to learn about how their own families ring in the end of the year and the beginning of the next, while discovering that there are so many ways to celebrate!

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Book SynopsisFirst published in 1876, Mark Twain's The Adventures of Tom Sawyer has delighted generations of readers. This volume is one of Barnes & Noble's 'Collectible Editions' classics. Each volume features authoritative texts by the world's greatest authors in an exquisitely designed foil-stamped binding, with distinctive coloured edging.

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Book SynopsisWhen Sheldon spends the day with his aunt, he has no idea he''s about to enter the fast-paced world of go-kart racing. Sheldon''s not keen on sports, but the combination of technical skill and adrenalin, along with an opposing bully, pulls him onto the track. Will Sheldon cross the finish line first, or will his dreams of go-kart racing break down?

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Book SynopsisSolve the mystery with the Secret Seven - everyone''s favourite detective club! These timeless stories are perfect for young fans of mystery, adventure or detective series. In book eleven, Jack''s little sister, Susie, is so annoying! The Secret Seven are furious when they discover she''s formed her own detective gang! Then some money is stolen, and Susie is a chief suspect. Solve the mystery! Cover and inside illustrations are by the brilliant Tony Ross, illustrator of David Walliams''s books. The story was first published in 1959. This edition features the classic text and comes with a Bonus Blyton section at the back with quizzes, puzzles and other bonus extras! Have you read all 15 books in the original Secret Seven series by Enid Blyton? And don''t miss these other Secret Seven titles...Mystery of the Skull - a brand-new Secret Seven mystery by prizewinning author Pamela Butchart. Secret Seven Brain Game

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Book SynopsisSolve the mystery with the Secret Seven - everyone''s favourite detective club! These timeless stories are perfect for young fans of mystery, adventure or detective series. In book thirteen, dogs are disappearing from the village, but the Seven are so busy arguing and falling out with each other that they don''t even notice. Then poor Scamper becomes the latest victim and it''s all systems go for the Secret Seven!Solve the mystery! Cover and inside illustrations are by the brilliant Tony Ross, illustrator of David Walliams''s books. The story was first published in 1961. This edition features the classic text and comes with a Bonus Blyton section at the back with quizzes, puzzles and other bonus extras! Have you read all 15 books in the original Secret Seven series by Enid Blyton? And don''t miss these other Secret Seven titles...Mystery of the Skull - a brand-new Secret Seven mystery by prizewinning author Pamela Butch

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Book SynopsisBeaver''s friends are determined to make his birthday extra special this year! Tortoise, Bird, Rabbit and Squirrel insist on baking his birthday cake, but Beaver isn''t so sure. He is the ultimate perfectionist and would rather do it himself, following the recipe exactly. Will Beaver''s nitpicky ways ruin his birthday and his friendships? The Perfect Birthday Recipe is the fourth and final story in Katy Hudson''s bestselling collection of seasonal picture books, including Too Many Carrots, A Loud Winter''s Nap and The Golden Acorn.Trade ReviewHudson’s winter landscapes invite the viewer right in with their rich brown branches and evergreens against pale pillowy snow drifts, and kids will be eager to join in with Tortoise’s grumpy refrain every time one of his friends asks him why tortoises don’t like winter: “They just don’t.” Bold sound- effect lettering heightens both Tortoise’s annoyance at his friends’ activities and his own delight when he discovers the pleasures of winter. Tortoise is adorably cranky in his resistance to winter activities, and his friends are encouraging without being pushy. * Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books *Hudson's detailed and colorful artwork is sure to attract attention, and the animals are cuddly cute with expressive faces, especially Tortoise's. Combine this with a nonfiction look at hibernation to round out a winter storytime. * Kirkus Reviews *

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Book SynopsisEnid Blyton's classic school series relaunched with fantastic new covers for a new generation of readers.

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

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Book SynopsisWinner of the Guardian children''s book prize 2015I''m the one who''s left behind. I''m the one to tell the tale. I knew them both... knew how they lived and how they died. Claire is Ella Grey''s best friend. She''s there when the whirlwind arrives on the scene: catapulted into a North East landscape of gutted shipyards; of high arched bridges and ancient collapsed mines. She witnesses a love so dramatic it is as if her best friend has been captured and taken from her. But the loss of her friend to the arms of Orpheus is nothing compared to the loss she feels when Ella is taken from the world. This is her story - as she bears witness to a love so complete; so sure, that not even death can prove final.Trade ReviewInfused with lyricism and with the fire and oddness of adolescence. Fresh, involving and lucid, it is a song in itself, and teens will find it fills them with poignant longing and joy. * The Daily Telegraph *A desperately romantic and deeply lyrical re-imagining of Orpheus and Eurydice... David Almond at his best. * * * * * * Bookbag *Passages of magic. * Financial Times *Beautifully written... poetic and allusive. * Irish Times *Spell-binding... impossible to resist... breathless, intoxicating prose. [Almond's] books seem to exist in their own otherworldly universe, outside all the trends in modern publishing, yet resolutely of the now. * The Glasgow Herald *Lyrical and dreamlike, this beautifully written story conjures up the insane intensity of first love and the effect it has on those caught up in its slipstream. Authentic teenage characters and attitudes, and Almond's control of emotion is superb. * Daily Mail *Almond's writing is superb. * Irish Daily Mail *A ravishing, ingenious novel told in Almond's own hypnotic northern lilt. * The Scotsman *A retelling of the myth of Orpheus... Almond's version is a revelation: his poetic prose seeps into your blood like word-venom until you can't imagine reading anything else (Children's Book of the Week) * The Times *a strong sense of mystery...lyrical... poetic...moves in a deliberate dreamlike way. A beautiful book that works on several levels A triumph. (Marcus Sedgwick) * The Guardian *A plangent tale of adolescent passion which re-packages the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. Almond injects it with lyrical beauty and life. * Books for Keeps *Intriguing adaptation of the tale of Orpheus, skilfully crafted and blended with modern teen life and a real flavour of Northumberland. Haunting. * Peters eGazette *Almond is an incredibly powerful storyteller. Poetic... dreamlike and lyrical. A devastatingly poignant novel. * Newcastle Chronicle *A desperately romantic and deeply lyrical re-imagining of the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. Full of the hums and thrums of emotions, landscape, music and poetry, it's David Almond at his best. * The Bookbag *Bliddy marvellous, as his Geordie protagonists would say. * The Independent on Sunday *A masterly retelling of the Orpheus myth. Lyrical prose is matched with equally beautiful passages. * Financial Times *Extraordinary. * Metro *Beautiful writing. * The Independent *Almond's lyrical prose fits the story perfectly. * The Mail on Sunday *A revelation. Poetic prose seeps into your blood like word venom until you can't imagine reading anything else. * The Times *Beautiful and bewitching. * Daily Express *The writing is just so magical... A stunning book which I will definitely read again. -- The Best Children's Books of 2014 * The Guardian *David Almond is a dazzling writer...exceptional... a breathtaking novel from a literary master. * Daily Express *A daring reworking of Orpheus amd Eurydice... a sense of transcendence... lush poetic prose. * Sunday Times *Haunting poetic novel. * Irish Times *If somebody asked me to describe A Song for Ella Grey in word, I would have to tell them that I couldn't...it would be impossible to write it off in just a word * The Guardian Online *It's a desperately romantic and deeply lyrical reimagining of the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. Full of the hums and thrums of emotions, landscape, music and poetry, it's David Almond at his best * The Bookbag *A revelation: his poetic prose seeps into your blood like word venom until you can't imagine reading anything else -- Alex O'Connell * The Times *Extraordinary -- Imogen Russell Williams * The Metro *Almond's lyrical prose fits the story perfectly * The Mail on Sunday *Beautiful writing...this is an author always on the side of the young, and as such offers a valuable counterweight to fashionable gloom in other teenage writing -- Nicholas Tucker * The Independent *I thought the author told the story extremely well and I would recommend this book to anyone in their teens. -- Charlie Barraclough (aged 14) * Western Gazette *Skillfully crafted and blended...accessible with engaging main characters and haunting memorable plot. * Peters eGazette *Intensely lyrical and oddly haunting...Almond's prose is a delight, each word so carefully chosen and melded to make a myth of contemporary adolescence * School Librarian *Capturing the intensity of first love and its power to overcome even death, Almond's prose is a delight, each word so carefully chosen and melded to make a myth of comtemporary adolescence...will surprise and enthrall teenage readers in equal measure * Scool Librarian *David Almond is a powerful storyteller and I was completely swept away by his latest poetic prose * Carousel *A challenging but riveting read -- Sophie Innes, Trinity Academy * Teen Titles *It is a challenging but riveting read * Teen Titles *Almond's poetic prose is especially apt for this tale -- one that moves in a deliberate, dreamlike way -- Marcus Sedgewick * The Guardian *This is the most beautifully written, haunting book for young adults that I have ever read * Bristol Magazine *This year I loved A Song for Ella Grey by David Almond ... a powerful, lyrical book that's absorbing and moving and haunting * The guardian.com *[David Almond] is becoming the Gabriel Garcia Marquez of Children's Fiction. -- Janni Howker * TES *This is absolutely beautiful and quite possibly my favourite Almond novel to date. The story of Orpheus and Eurydice is retold against a wild Northumbrian landscape: life, death, love and myths. Just wonderful. -- Fiona Noble * The Bookseller *Almond is an incredibly powerful storyteller; his poetic prose perfectly suits this type of tale, being dream-like and lyrical...a devastatingly poignant novel. -- Jayne Howarth * Manchester Evening News *

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Book Synopsis'Anyone who enjoys mythology will find much to love in Pegasus and the Flame. Kate O'Hearn serves up a winning mix of modern adventure and classic fantasy.' Rick Riordan, author of Percy Jackson.Trade Review"Anyone who enjoys Greek mythology will find much to love in Pegasus and the Flame. Kate O'Hearn serves up a winning mix of modern adventure and classic fantasy." * Rick Riordan, author of the Percy Jackson series *has really captured readers' imaginations * The Bookseller *A magical and mighty read befitting a story set in the world of the gods ... A richly imagined adventure that blends myth and reality into a story of heroics and heroism. * Julia Eccleshare, LoveReading4kids *PRAISE FOR SHADOW OF THE DRAGON:'Great characters, good comedy, action, adventure and dragons. What more could a young fantasy fan ask for?' * The Bookbag *an exciting, fast-paced adventure filled with strong female protagonists. * School Librarian *an action packed, gripping adventure story bringing the world of fantasy directly to a young female readership. Kate O'Hearn is perhaps the Anne McAffrey for the twenty-first century. * School Librarian *... packed with action * Carousel *This is a fine tale of high fantasy ... catches your imagination and heart. * Kiss the Book *This exhilarating story captures the reader's interest from the opening interaction between Kira and her parents to the breathless conclusion. * VOYA *

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Book SynopsisFlora doesn't do people since the Incident that led to her being diagnosed with bipolar II. Until Hal arrives. He's researching a missing World War I soldier and wants Flora's help. Working with Hal is Flora's worst nightmare, yet as they piece together the soldier's life of lost love and secrets, Flora finds a piece of herself falling for Hal.Trade ReviewHarcourt treats mental illness with sensitivity, careful to offer hope for her readers while also being realistic about the still-pervasive stigma. * Irish Times *[A] heartfelt journey of romance, history and mental health. * The School Librarian *

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Book SynopsisMeet Julian, Dick, Anne, George and Timothy. Together they are THE FAMOUS FIVE - Enid Blyton''s most popular adventure series. All 21 titles also available as audiobooks!In book sixteen, it''s holiday time at Billycock Hill and the Famous Five make new friend - a real pilot! But when he disappears with top secret equipment, the Five begin to wonder if their new friend could be a spy, or worse, a traitor.Whatever his motives, the gang feel duty-bound to investigate...Fantastic new cover art by Laura Ellen Anderson will draw young readers into this accessible timeless classic.Trade ReviewThe prize must go to the adventures of George and co. Listed as one of the 100 Best Children's Books Ever (Novels) * The Daily Telegraph *One of the 50 books every child should read by Age 16 * essexbaby.co.uk *Famous Five books are essential for all children's bookshelves * MADEFORMUMS.COM *I thought this series was wonderful. It struck me as a great injustice that they were having adventures and I wasn't -- Alexander McCall Smith * The Sunday Telegraph *Dangerous criminals are no match for children and a dog. Adults are useless * Country Life *Always popular, always a favourite. And ALWAYS full of adventure -- Dan Smith * The Big Issue *

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Book SynopsisMeet Julian, Dick, Anne, George and Timothy. Together they are THE FAMOUS FIVE - Enid Blyton''s most popular adventure series. All 21 titles also available as audiobooks!In book seventeen, the Famous Five are skiing and having lots of fun. But who is living in the mysterious house near their chalet? The caretaker claims it''s been deserted for years, but the Five are sure they''ve seen a face at the window. A terrified, and haunted face. Have the gang got the courage to find out?Fantastic new cover art by Laura Ellen Anderson will draw young readers into this accessible timeless classic.Trade ReviewThe prize must go to the adventures of George and co. Listed as one of the 100 Best Children's Books Ever (Novels) * The Daily Telegraph *One of the 50 books every child should read by Age 16 * essexbaby.co.uk *Famous Five books are essential for all children's bookshelves * MADEFORMUMS.COM *I thought this series was wonderful. It struck me as a great injustice that they were having adventures and I wasn't -- Alexander McCall Smith * The Sunday Telegraph *Dangerous criminals are no match for children and a dog. Adults are useless * Country Life *Always popular, always a favourite. And ALWAYS full of adventure -- Dan Smith * The Big Issue *

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Book SynopsisPrincess Smartypants rules her kingdom of Totaloonia on her own - she certainly doesn''t need the help of a silly Prince of a husband. However, she is always willing to help her friends, and agrees to host the engagement party of three would-be princesses.But the trouble starts when the princes fail to turn up to the party - they''ve gone missing.Princess Smartypants is determined to uncover the plot and rescue the princes. With the help of Eric, her friendly giant handyman, she sets off on a wacky adventure to track the princes'' last moves.Can Princess Smartypants solve the case of the missing princes and get them to the chuch on time before her next case waits?Hold on to your tiaras; there''s a rescue mission to solve and a riotous wedding to plan!Trade ReviewLovely line drawings embellish the pages and combine with the short chapters to make the book a great way to encourage readers who love her picture books to move on to full-length fiction * Parents in Touch *if you loved these when younger you'll also enjoy this great next step to longer fiction. * The Independent online *Always a pleasure to dive into the world of Babette Cole's Princess Smartypants * The Herald (Glasgow) *A girl-power must-read! * The School Run *Featuring plenty of hilarious black and white illustrations, this will appeal to fans of the Princess' picture books who are ready for more complex plot * Book Trust *A new generation of readers will appreciate her feisty and unconventional heroine, who popularised the 'twisted' fairytale so widely read and appreciated today * School Librarian *It is packed full of humour and wit and was a real joy to read. -- Lauren Maidman * Reading Zone - Teacher Review *For children beginning to read independently, this is an exciting adventure and the fact that they may already know the main character from picture books may encourage them to choose this. -- Kathy Slater * Reading Zone - Teacher Review *

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Book SynopsisEnormously popular all over the world, Enid Blyton's school series combines everything that makes school so special - friendships, learning, sports, plays and mischief!

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Book SynopsisMeet Knitbone Pepper, the lovable ghost dog haunting Starcross Hall and collect all his adventures!Roll up! Roll up!The circus is coming to Starcross Hall, and Winnie and her ghostly animal friends can't wait. The magicians, acrobats and clowns are such fun! But Knitbone Pepper sniffs something beastly in the big top... Packed with adventure, chuckles and woofs!

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Book SynopsisSchooldays at St Clare''s are never dull for twins Pat and Isabel O''Sullivan in Enid Blyton''s much-loved boarding school series.In book two, it''s the start of the Easter Term and the twins are looking forward to meeting all their friends at St Clare''s once more. They are determined to be obedient and studious, but the new girls prove to be so much fun. Poor Mam''zelle had better watch out.Expect mischief at St Clare''s!Between 1941 and 1946, Enid Blyton wrote six novels set at St Clare''s. This edition features the original text and is unillustrated.

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Book SynopsisSchooldays at St Clare''s are never dull for twins Pat and Isabel O''Sullivan in Enid Blyton''s much-loved boarding school series.In book nine the unimaginable has happened - the twins made head girl! It''s a tough job - cheeky first formers and cruel Priscilla keep the girls on their toes.It''s the twins last year and there definitely will be mischief!Between 1941 and 1946, Enid Blyton wrote six novels set at St Clare''s. Books 5, 6 and 9 are authorised sequels of the series written by Pamela Cox and feature storylines set in between the original Blyton novels. These books were published in 2000/2008 and are unillustrated.

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Book SynopsisKnitbone Pepper's beloved owner Winnie is fascinated by the stars after Knitbone digs up an ancient telescope. So when a heartbroken ghost horse asks for help finding her owner - a world-famous astronomer - Knitbone looks to the skies for a dazzling answer...

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Book SynopsisFrom Olympic gold medal winner Mo Farah and bestselling author of Oi Frog!, Kes Gray, comes a fun fiction series which will get kids reading, and running too!After returning home from a long cross-country run, it''s time for Mo and his friends to decide where to go on their next running adventure. Sandwiches at the ready, the friends head somewhere beautiful, with glistening snow and sparkling lakes ... The Rocky Mountains!But crossing states is tiring work, and with lots of new creatures (and monsters!) to meet along the way, will Mo and friends ever get time for a sandwich break?Here comes Bigfoot ... RUN!Follow Mo on his madcap adventures as his running skills go from strength to strength.The perfect book to share and read aloud.The nation watched with bated breath as Mo Farah seized Olympic gold in the 10,000m and 5000m - he''s been a national treasure ever since. In this adventurous series father of three, Mo

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Book SynopsisThe fifth in a magical, exciting series by Olympian and World Book Day ambassador Jessica Ennis-Hill. Perfect for fans of Rainbow Magic and My Little Pony! What if you had a special bracelet that allowed you to do magic, just by thinking about it? Evie''s grandma has sent her another parcel. Inside layers of tissue and colourful ribbons is a beautiful bracelet! Evie''s going to need the bracelet - and a brave heart - when she investigates a spooky old clocktower. But she''s always ready to have some magical adventures!Evie shares Jessica''s determination and drive - an inspiration for kids everywhere.The full list of titles: 1. The Silver Unicorn2. The Enchanted Puppy3. The Sprites'' Den4. The Unicorn''s Foal5. The Clocktower Charm6. The Fire Bird7. The Golden Sands

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