Children & Teen Fiction Books

Book SynopsisCome into the jungle for a noisy, rhyming animal adventure in this colourful read-aloud picture book! There's a rumble in the jungle, There's a whisper in the trees, The animals are waking up, And rustling the leaves ...Little ones will love looking at the colourful pictures and joining in with all the great sound words, as they discover lots of exciting jungle animals. Including lions, elephants, chimpanzees, zebras, hippos and more! Each page introduces a different animal, with a short read-aloud rhyme.From the author of international bestseller Giraffes Can't Dance.Trade ReviewA delightfully simple book * The Sunday Times *Bright colours, jungly music and animal sound effects make this collection of animal rhyming verse an agreeable romp . Splendid narration by Hugh Laurie will keep young readers engaged and amused * Books for Keeps *

Read more less

Book SynopsisSpecial Collectors' Hardback Editions Lovingly Restored to Original Designs 'I love these editions-so beautifully produced, so solid and permanent, just as Tove Jansson deserved.' Philip Pullman A beautiful collectors' edition of this classic Moomin story, using original 50s and 60s cover artwork, a fold out map and gorgeous endpapers In case you didn't know, the Moomins are kind, loyal and welcoming creatures with smooth round snouts, who live in a tall blue house shaped like an old stove in a valley in the forests of Finland. They love sunshine and sleep right through the winter, when the snow turns their house into a great snowball. In spring they wake up, clamber down the rope ladders hanging from their windows ready for fresh new adventures. And so this classic story begins, full of fun and excitement and the most unexpected happenings. Such as when Moomin and his friends Snufkin and Sniff find a Hobgoblin's hat that casts a spell over the whole of Moominvalley... From the publisher of The Invisible Child and The Fir Tree (all proceeds to Oxfam) here's the Moomin gift editions.Trade ReviewI love these editions - so beautifully produced, so solid and permanent, just as Tove Jansson deserved -- Philip PullmanTove Jansson is one of the greatest children's writers there has ever been -- Sir Terry Pratchett(These editions) are simply stunning, and an absolute must-read. The Moomin novels are timeless stories full of adventure and heartwarming values - perfect for Christmas. * The Bookseller *

Read more less

Book SynopsisIce Cream Cone Worm. Monkeyface Prickleback. Pink Fairy Armadillo. You're called WHAT?!Welcome to the Ministry of Silly Animal Names where all the creatures have one thing in common: they want to change their names. A unique and rip-roaringly funny, tongue-twisting story full of weird and wonderful real creatures and facts at the end that will amaze. Written by Kes Gray, the bestselling, award-winning author of Oi Frog! and illustrated with charm and wit by dazzling new talent, Nikki Dyson.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe brand-new Gods Squad is back! Seth, the Egyptian god ofwar, has stolen the sun god. Vesper and Aster must save the worldagain, but enemies old and new are gathering ...

Read more less

Book SynopsisA laugh-out-loud pirate adventure from the stellar picture-book partnership of Julia Donaldson and David Roberts.The Troll longs for a juicy goat to eat – but he's stuck with boring old fish for supper. Bother! Meanwhile, Hank Chief and his pirate crew love fish, but without a decent recipe their slimy, soggy dinner is even worse. If only they could find their buried treasure and pay for a ship's cook . . . but it seems they've sailed to the wrong island. Again.Watch the fun unfold as two very different worlds collide in The Troll, a gloriously comic story from Julia Donaldson and David Roberts, the creators of the highly acclaimed Tyrannosaurus Drip.Enjoy the other stories by Julia Donaldson and David Roberts: Tyrannosaurus Drip, Jack and the Flumflum Tree, The Flying Bath and The Cook and the King.Trade ReviewAfter a Gruffalo or a Tyrannosaurus, what could be more deliciously scary than Julia Donaldson’s The Troll? . . . irresistible. * The Times *magnificently menacing * Daily Telegraph *an excellent book to capture! * The Scotsman *

Read more less

Book Synopsis"It’s dark monstrous fun!" Wondrous Reads Enter the darkly funny world of Stitch Head, as he steps out of the shadows into the adventure of an almost-lifetime… Deep in the maze-like dungeons of Castle Grotteskew, insane Professor Erasmus created Stitch Head, a small, almost-human creature. His experiments continued, filling the castle with creations so fabulously monstrous that Stitch Head was long forgotten. Until a travelling circus ringmaster knocks at the castle door, promising to make Stitch Head a star. Is this Stitch Head’s chance to venture beyond the castle walls? Or could he be making a terrible mistake…? The first book in the best-selling, laugh-out-loud STITCH HEAD series by award-winning author Guy Bass, with illustrations by Pete Williamson. Full of monstrous fun, STITCH HEAD is perfect for fans of David Walliams, AMELIA FANG and THE NOTHING TO SEE HERE HOTEL. Delve into Stitch Head’s other adventures: THE PIRATE'S EYE THE GHOST OF GROTTESKEW THE SPIDER'S LAIR THE BEAST OF GRUBBERS NUBBIN THE MONSTER HUNTER

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe first book in a spellbinding children's fantasy series, with beautiful black-and-white inside illustrations by Sarah Warburton. Perfect for fans of Cressida Cowell and Nevermoor. Willow Moss, the youngest and least powerful sister in a family of witches, has a magical ability for finding lost things like keys, or socks, or spectacles. Useful, but not exactly excitingThen the most powerful witch in the world of Starfell turns up at Willow's door and asks for her help. A whole day last Tuesday to be precise has gone missing. Completely. And without it the whole universe could unravel.Now Willow holds the fate of Starfell in her rather unremarkable hands Can she save the day by finding the lost one?Step into Starfell, a world crackling with warmth, wit and magic, perfect for readers aged 812. Book 2 coming in April 2020!Trade Review‘A wonderful book! Packed with fun, inventive magic, and loveable characters’ – Michelle Harrison, author of A Pinch of Magic ‘If you’re looking for smart, charming, imaginative fantasy, look no further than Starfell. It’s one of those books that immediately makes you feel right at home.’ – P. G. Bell, author of The Train to Impossible Places ‘I ADORE THIS BOOK!’ – Laura Ellen Anderson, author of the Amelia Fang series ‘Such a lovely book – fast-paced, funny and charming. I can’t wait to read the next thing that Dominique writes.’ – Robin Stevens, author of Murder Most Unladylike ‘This is a rip-roaring debut, packed with dragons and trolls, family rivalries and bitter grudges but the lasting message is one of loyalty, hope and the value of being different. With entertaining line drawings by Sarah Warburton, this is a series to watch out for.’ – Daily Mail ‘A spellbinding début set in an irresistible magical world.’ – Fiona Noble, The Bookseller ‘This is glorious – wonderful. A book for everyone, especially those who don’t believe they have a talent – who aren’t anything special. This is not a book to be ignored.’ – Sue Chambers, Waterstones ‘A hugely funny, rip-roaring page-turner with more twists than you can shake a magic broomstick at.’ Storgy Kids Magazine ‘Lovely, warm, magical and cosy, like the most comforting cup of hot chocolate. I can't wait to read Book 2!’ – Stephanie Burgis, author of The Dragon with a Chocolate Heart ‘Fully-formed, warm and most importantly original . . . This would be a perfect recommendation for children that have already devoured and loved the novels of Cressida Cowell, Laura Ellen Anderson or Fleur Hitchcock. And of course Harry Potter!’ – Just Imagine

Read more less

Book SynopsisWhen eleven-year-old Gregor falls through a grate in the laundryroom of his apartment building, he hurtles into the dark Underland,where spiders, rats and giant cockroaches coexist uneasilywith humans. This world is on the brink of war, and Gregor's arrivalis no accident. He has a vital role to play in the Underland'suncertain future.

Read more less

Book SynopsisWinner of the Branford Boase Award 2021, a breathtaking fantasy adventure for fans of His Dark Materials that The Times calls ''Unputdownable''.The City was built on a sharp mountain that jutted improbably from the sea, and the sea kept trying to claim it back. That grey morning, once the tide had retreated, a whale was found on a rooftop.When a mysterious boy washes in with the tide, the citizens believe he''s the Enemy - the god who drowned the world - come again to cause untold chaos.Only Ellie, a fearless young inventor living in a workshop crammed with curiosities, believes he''s innocent.But the Enemy can take possession of any human body and the ruthless Inquisition are determined to destroy it forever.To save the boy, Ellie must prove who he really is - even if that means revealing her own dangerous secret . . .''Unputdownable'' - The Times''Enthralling'' - The Daily Express''Sumptuously atmospheric . . . tirelessly inventive'' - The Daily Telegraph''Gripping'' - The Guardian''Energetic and inventive'' - Sunday Times''Gripping and original'' - The Observer''Singularly brilliant'' - Kiran Millwood Hargrave, author of The Girl of Ink and Stars and The Mercies''Compellingly inventive and unpredictable'' - Piers Torday, author of The Last Wild''A terrific debut of strange myths and dark secrets'' - The Bookseller (Editor''s Choice)Trade ReviewA sumptuously atmospheric adventure . . . Murray is a tirelessly inventive storyteller -- Emily Bearn * The Daily Telegraph *Gripping . . . with a touch of Frances Hardinge's bizarre brilliance -- Imogen Russell Williams * The Guardian *Unputdownable . . . Murray has an extraordinary imagination -- Alex O'Connell * The Times *Energetic and inventive . . . and with some startling surprises, this is also touching about friendship, siblings, loss and courage -- Nicolette Jones * The Sunday Times *Struan Murray . . . effortlessly joins the ranks of the most skilled world-creators . . . Unpredictable, filled with plot twists and shades of moral grey, Orphans of the Tide is both gripping and original. -- Kitty Empire * The Observer *A beautifully written fantasy adventure with prose that is both muscular and musical, and outstanding world building. -- Sarah Webb * Irish Independent *Orphans of the Tide is singularly brilliant. So inventive, and weird, and beautiful, with just the right amount of bite and darkness. I predict big things! * Kiran Millwood Hargrave, author of The Girl of Ink and Stars and The Mercies *I loved it! Dark and thrilling. Great characters to root for. Perilous plot. Extraordinary, vivid world building . . . brilliant! * Eloise Williams, Children's Laureate Wales *The most original opening I've read in years and a plot twist that turns brilliantly * Abi Elphinstone, author of Sky Song *This is a terrific debut of strange myths and dark secrets, fierce loyalties and ruthless villains, told against the thrilling backdrop of a half submerged city. * The Bookseller – Editor's Choice *Compellingly inventive and unpredictable, kept me guessing right till the end. * Piers Torday, author of The Last Wild *Absolutely cracking! Great characters, with quite the nastiest villain I've met in a long while. * Fleur Hitchcock, author of The Boy Who Flew *Outstanding and immersive . . . I devoured this in one go * book blogger Lily SugarPlum Faery *An imaginative journey to a stunning fantasy world, full of twists and heart . . . an absolute corker . . . filled with swashbuckling adventure . . . an enthralling fantasy that moves through dark and grisly scenes of grave peril to positively touching moments of profound friendship. An incredibly imaginative narrative that fills its reader with wonder and thrills while also not being afraid to share quieter moments of real heart. * The Daily Express *There is a touch of Phillip Pullman about the world that Murray creates, and Murray matches Pullman lyrical prose [...] The comparison, however, should not take away from Murray's originality [...] the characters themselves, led by the plucky Ellie, anchor Orphans of the Tide in an urgent, human reality. * Irish Times *The energetic steampunk vibe overlies a thoughtful fable about compassion and justice * New Statesman *

Read more less

Book SynopsisPerfect for fans of Alex Rider and Artemis Fowl, Simon Fox's latest action-packed thriller is ideal for readers too young for Jack Reacher or Line of Duty.Archie Blake thought his policeman father teaching him how to pick locks and open safes was just a bit of fun. But when a diamond necklace is stolen and his dad is arrested, Archie realises the only way to prove Dad's innocence is to go on the run and use everything he's learned to uncover the truth.But Archie soon finds himself deeply tangled in the criminal underworld, where it's hard to know who to trust and even harder to see what's right or wrong. Will Archie be able to find a way out before it's too late?An explosive new adventure from the author of the unputdownable Running Out of Time. Simon Fox is a rising star in a new generation of thriller writers.

Read more less

Book SynopsisFor 5+ kids who love video games but aren't allowed to play as often as they'd like...Sunny's favourite game is Super Rabbit Boy, where his carrot-loving friend must thwart all the plots the evil King Viking of Boom Boom Mountain comes up with.King Viking is planning to build a Super Robot to destroy EVERYTHING and Super Rabbit Boy must find the Super Power Up component before King Viking does.He has a map and his BRAVERY and SKILLS. Can he break the evil wizard's curse, defeat the gobbling goblins and solve the riddles he finds in the Cold, Cold Caves? Or will King Viking get there first and DOOM EVERYTHING. You'll have to read and find out...The second in a full-colour series of graphic novels about - and for - kids who love gaming! Join Sunny as he and Super Rabbit Boy take on the world, one move at a time!

Read more less

Book SynopsisEnter the adorkable world of Nikki Maxwell as she tells all about her not-so-fabulous life in the international bestselling series Dork Diaries!

Read more less

Book SynopsisA subversive and hilarious spin on the well-loved fairy tale.The three little wolves erect first a solid brick house. The big bad pig comes along and when huffing and puffing fails to work, he uses a sledgehammer to bring the house down. Next they build a home of concrete: The pig demolishes it with his pneumatic drill. The three little wolves choose an even stronger design next time round: They erect a house, made of steel, barbed wire, armor plates and video entry system, but the pig finds a way to demolish it too. It is only when the wolves construct a rather fragile house made of cherry blossoms, daffodils, pink roses, and marigolds that the pig has a change of heart A great read for children who enjoyed The Wolf''s Story by Toby Forward. Kids aged 5 and up will enjoy this hilarious, subversive and brilliant read aloud picture book. Eugene Trivizas's text for The Three Little Wolves and the Big Bad Pig is perfectly complemented by Helen Oxenbury's watercolour illustrations.Eugene Trivizas has written over 100 books and is the winner of more than twenty national and international prizes and awards. His work has been adapted for stage, screen and radio.Helen Oxenbury''s warm and witty illustrations have charmed children and adults alike for many years. Her version of Alice in Wonderland, published by Walker Books, won the 2001 Kate Greenaway Award, which she first won in 1969 for The Quangle Wangle''s Hat. She has also won the Smarties Book Prize three times.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn his new verse novel, Joseph Coelho brilliantly blends Greek myth with a 21st century quest. In Ancient Greece Theseus makes a dangerous and courageous journey to find his father, finally meeting the Minotaur in the Labyrinth. While Theo, a modern-day teenage boy, finds himself on a maze-like quest to find his own father. Each story tells of a boy becoming a man and discovering what true manhood really means. The path to self-discovery takes Theo through ‘those thin spaces where myth, magic and reality combine’. Doubts, difficulties and dangers must be faced as Theo discovers the man he will become.Trade Review"Powerful, playful and poignant in equal parts, 'The Boy Lost in the Maze' skilfully interweaves the myth of Theseus with the modern coming-of-age story of Theo. Every word is carefully wrought in these astonishing narrative poems which reward reading, re-reading and reflection." * Jake Hope *"An all-consuming tale of the quests of two boys told in verse... thanks to Coelho's mesmerising way with words and bold imagination, the two worlds are bridged effortlessly... Coelho allows each boy's life to complement the other while reminding us that the answers to the stories' central question - what is a man? - remain the same, in myth and modernity." * The Times - Children's Book of the Week *"A gritty and innovative intertwining of Theseus and the Minotaur with a modern-day quest blends 20 chapters of dual narrative poetry with illustrator Kate Milner’s abstract forms and revitalised Greek motifs. Personal, accessible and memorable, Theo’s journey of self-discovery is highly relatable and will resonate. A landmark coming-of-age verse novel, The Boy Lost in the Maze is ideal to read and discuss with students in years 9-11. Highly recommended for KS4 libraries." -- Tom Tolkien * School Reading List - Fiction Book of the Month *"This is an extraordinary read… Deeply poignant, the story feels incredibly personal as these boys face a labyrinth of emotions, navigating their lives whilst feeling adrift, seeking a connection, seeking themselves... Joseph’s love of poetry shines through the work...his command of language, his power with words and his ability to speak directly to the heart of his readers combine to create a stunning work of great beauty, pathos and hope. It is unbelievably good!" * Through The Bookshelf *"The poetic nature of the text makes it a quick and accessible read which is likely to appeal to reluctant readers, particularly boys given the male-dominated storylines. Coelho’s expertise as a performance poet is clear and the book would benefit from being read aloud in order to appreciate the poems’ rhythm and pace. The Boy Lost in the Maze is a clever and original tale that makes for an impressive start to Coelho’s tenure as Children’s Laureate." -- Melanie Dillon * School Reading List *"This is a spellbinding novel... addresses issues of identity, masculinity, and fatherhood. It has exciting interactive elements and includes choices for the reader to make, mirroring Theseus’ journey though the Labyrinth. This is a book like no other and I can’t wait for my son to be able to read it." -- Booksb4bedtime * via Instagram *"The switching between Theo’s study for his Theseus project and his search for his father is brilliant... And alongside this – as if this story weren’t powerful enough – Theseus’s battles with his own villains, Cercyon, Procrustes and the rest, form another strand of narrative and teach him more and more what manhood and sonship mean... It could work as a class read, but it has so much to puzzle and to treasure I would see it as a library acquisition, to be savoured on one’s own... the reader will not be disappointed." * Just Imagine *"The form of this book by Joseph Coelho threads the story into the heart of the matter, looks at who are the monsters, and who the heroes, shows how flawed adults can be and the power of myth to learn. It is a triumph. Rich with the humanity of the monsters we make. Rare. Beautiful." * Jackie Morris *"Joseph Coelho is a poet with the rare talent of being able to write equally brilliantly for all ages. Have read a dozen of his books and The Boy Lost in the Maze stands with the very best of them. An intense read with powerful illustrations... it's a masterpiece." * Jon Biddle *"A quick and interesting read and one that I would recommend for fans of Free Verse." -- @bookmadbarlow * via Instagram *"Our current Children’s Laureate has created another powerful, enthralling story in verse form. Kate Milner has supported these with beautiful black and white illustrations ranging from pieces that look as if they may be ancient Greek illustrations to wonderfully detailed modern depictions. Once you pick it up you won’t want to put it down!" * Love Reading For Kids *"A powerful verse novel with stunning illustrations." * BookTrust: Books we love in October 2022 *"Monsters and mythical creatures are are given startling contemporary relevance in this affecting novel in verse by the current Children's Laureate." * The Financial Times: Best Books of 2022 *"...Children’s laureate Coelho knows his way around the great legends, and is masterful at weaving them into contemporary kids’ lives. This is a tale told in verse (don’t panic, the plot is awesome), paralleling Theseus’s journey through the labyrinth with teenager Theo’s quest to find his biological dad. It’s also interactive, with a ‘choose your own adventure’ element. A lyrical, touching page-turner." * The Big Issue - Best children's books of 2022 *"The Boy Lost in the Maze by Joseph Coelho and illustrated by Kate Milner is a deep and uplifting, dark and luminous verse novel. Follow Theo, Theseus and, yes, the Minotaur on their quest to find their respective father, their manhood, their identity. Expertly navigating timelines and perspectives, this polyphonic tour de force features epics, pantoums, raps, and even choose your-own-adventure moments. Very, very strong stuff." -- Juliette Saumande * Sunday Independent *"The book sees Children’s Laureate Coelho adapt The Six Labours of Theseus in verse using modern vernacular, while simultaneously mapping that timeless story onto a second narrative set in the present day... The interweaving of both narratives is skillfully done, teasing out the parallels between the two via a series of poems that combine the complexities of a carefully crafted collection and the pacey immediacy of a modern detective tale." * Teach Secondary *"In this powerful and poignant verse novel, the Children’s Laureate, Joseph Coelho, deftly interweaves Greek myth with a contemporary teenage issue – the search for an identity and for a father... The deep emotions that verse novels can create through short phrases, simple language and a greater emphasis on action rather than plot should appeal to the teenage reader short of time." * Read for Good *"Surely it qualifies as a set text on the English Lit. curriculum?! It prompts discussion, illustrates writing techniques and we think the kids would particularly appreciate the contemporary plot-line, language and descriptions of an urban landscape they recognise." * Books Up North *"This is an accessible and insightful read, covering self-growth, discovery and changing one’s narrative. It is gripping and fast-paced and a definite one-sitting kind of read... Coelho’s masterful writing adds a whole new, nuanced and thought-provoking layer to the age-old myth, which will stick with you long after you have turned the last page." -- Farrah (aged 16) * The Book Nook *"Theo’s story, like Theseus’s, is told in poetry gives it an epic quality, while the ending, in both words and pictures, is incredibly moving. Coelho has dedicated his life to making poetry accessible to everyone, and in the book’s page-turning readability, it can be enjoyed by older children and adults alike." -- June Hopper Swain * IBBY UK *"Besides being gorgeously realized, the story gets high marks for originality, which is high praise, indeed." -- Michael Cart * Library Journal (US) - Starred Review *"Coehlo expertly uses poetic form here to straightforwardly connect the two heroes’ quests... with deeply felt contemplations on manhood, fathers, and what it feels like to be truly loved for who you are. An additional layer of complexity is offered by the occasional unique use of a “choose-your-own-adventure” style, in which readers can see different outcomes of turning points in Theo’s journey... A powerful, skillful poetic novel." * Bulletin for the Center of Children’s Books (US) - Starred Review *"By using complex verse that demonstrates a clear love of poetic experimentation, Coelho presents an insightful, multidimensional interpretation of a millennia-old myth. Milner's pencil figure drawings and glyphic illustrations are interspersed throughout, portraying Theseus as a contemporary superhero." * Publishers' Weekly (US) - Five Star Review *

Read more less

Book SynopsisBest friends Bumble and Snug are bugbops - little monsters filled with BIG feelings! Join them in this new, full-colour graphic novel, as they go on a thrilling, funny adventure with a VERY shy ghost and learn about the world outside and inside.Bumble and Snug are excited to show off their magic tricks at the Bugbopolis Talent Show together with their new friend, a little ghost. They''ll need to practise first, from pulling rabbits out of a hat to picking the right cards and levitating. There''s just one problem, the ghost turns invisible when she''s shy!When the little ghost gets overwhelmed and vanishes before they can begin their act, Bumble and Snug will have to save the show. But there are other obstacles to overcome too - and it starts with a falling stage! Bumble and Snug and the Shy Ghost is a story about being shy, friendship, magic tricks and a disaster or two!Perfect for readers just starting to enjoy stories indepen

Read more less

Book SynopsisA frozen world, mighty monsters and spellbinding magic. Journey to the very edge of the world in this BREATHTAKING fantasy trilogy. Perfect for fans of Skandar and Philip Pullman . . .“The Ice Apprentices is an extraordinary fantasy debut. The world-building is stunning, the pacing perfect, the characters immediately relatable. Oswin is endlessly curious, hilariously funny and wonderfully kind - he became my new favourite hero within a few sentences. North is such an exciting new talent in middle grade.” A.F. Steadman, author of the Skandar series Tundra is the last settlement in a world of ice. Oswin Fields is its only stray – a foundling, rescued from the Endless Expanse. So, when he's summoned to the school for ice apprentices, he sets out to prove his worth. But all isn’t as it seems in this enchanted place. When the beasts begin

Read more less

Book SynopsisA gripping World War II adventure from War Horse author and former Children''s Laureate, Michael Morpurgo.Jo did not stop until he'd shut the door behind him and even then his heart could not stop pounding in his ears.Jo finds out that Jewish children are being smuggled away from the Nazis over the mountains near his village. All goes to plan until German soldiers start patrolling the mountains, and Jo realises the children are trapped. Jo''s slightest mistake could have devastating consequences Shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal and Guardian Fiction awardWaiting for Anya is a novel that takes children to the heart of a tumultuous period in history, providing a wider context for children who have studied the Holocaust and The Diary of Anne Frank.Trade ReviewPraise for Michael Morpurgo: “Michael Morpurgo writes brilliantly about war and animals, conveying the big emotions without preaching.” Guardian “Champagne quality over a wide range of subjects.” Daily Telegraph “There are few children’s writers as compelling as Michael Morpurgo.” Daily Express “Morpurgo, as always, is subtle and skillful, and incorporates social and moral issues into his writing without being self-righteous or detracting from the quality of the narrative”Elizabeth Reilly, British Council “The former children's laureate has the happy knack of speaking to both child and adult readers.” Guardian

Read more less

Book SynopsisRediscover the A Puffin Book series and bring the best-loved classics to a new generation - including this special edition of The Wolves of Willoughby Chase.It''s 19th Century England, Good King James III is on the throne, and the whole country is ravaged by wolves which have migrated through the newly-opened Channel Tunnel.When young orphans Bonnie and Sylvia get caught by the governess, Miss Slighcarp - they need their wits and Simon the goose-boy - to escape unscathed.For Miss Slighcarp is more cruel and merciless than the wolves that surround the great house of Willoughby Chase. . .Trade ReviewA wild and evocative fantasy, stylishly told, with a tremendous romantic appeal * Observer *Altogether an invigorating book, in which the wit and nonsense make such a sparkling fizz together that it is hard to tell one from the other * Times Educational Supplement *One genuine small masterpiece. Almost a copy-book lesson in those virtues that a classic children's book must possess * Time magazine *Joan Aiken is a marvel * The Guardian *

Read more less

Book SynopsisAcross the Barricades is part of Joan Lingard''s ground-breaking Kevin and Sadie series, the sequel to The Twelfth Day of July. Both books are part of The Originals from Penguin - iconic, outspoken, first. Kevin and Sadie just want to be together, but it''s not that simple. Things are bad in Belfast. Soldiers walk the streets and the city is divided. No Catholic boy and Protestant girl can go out together - not without dangerous consequences . . .The Originals are the pioneers of fiction for young adults. From political awakening, war and unrequited love to addiction, teenage pregnancy and nuclear holocaust, The Originals confront big issues and articulate difficult truths. The collection includes: The Outsiders - S.E. Hinton, I Capture the Castle - Dodie Smith, Postcards from No Man''s Land - Aidan Chambers, After the First Death - Robert Cormier, Dear Nobody - Berlie Doherty, The Endless Steppe - Esther Hautzig, Buddy - Nigel Hinton, Across the Barricades - Joan Lingard, The Twelfth Day of July - Joan Lingard, No Turning Back - Beverley Naidoo, Z for Zachariah - Richard C. O''Brien, The Wave - Morton Rhue, The Red Pony - John Steinbeck, The Pearl - John Steinbeck, Stone Cold - Robert Swindells.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisWhen Kino, an Indian pearl-diver, finds 'the Pearl of the world' he believes that his life will be magically transformed. He will marry Juana in church and their little boy, Coyotito, will be able to attend school. Obsessed by his dreams, Kino is blind to the greed, fear and even violence the pearl arouses in him and his neighbours.

Read more less

Book SynopsisHalf vampire, half fairy, totally unique! Isadora Moon is special because she is different. Her mum is a fairy and her dad is a vampire and she is a bit of both. Isadora''s class are going on a school trip to an old castle. The castle''s a little bit spooky and it doesn''t help that there''s thunder and lightning outside. While Isadora investigates the castle dungeon she discovers a surprising new friend. He''s a little different, like her, so Isadora''s going to have to try and find a way of introducing him to her friends without them getting too much of a shock. With a gorgeous glittery cover, irresistible pink and black artwork throughout, and a totally unique heroine with an out-of-this-world family, this is a beautiful, charming, and funny series of first chapter books. Perfect for fans of Claude, Dixie O''Day, and Squishy McFluff, Isadora Moon is the ideal choice for readers who want their magic and sparkle with a bit of bite!Trade ReviewPraise for Isadora Moon Beautifully presented throughout with pink and black illustrations . . . a lovely step up book for newly independent readers. * lovereading4kids.co.uk *This lively celebration of difference and mixed family heritage boasts appealing two-colour pictures * The Guardian *

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

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

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Woodland Explorers solve mysteries and protect the animals of Willow Wish Woods. A magical new series for 5-7 inspired by Forest School, by prize-shortlisted author Ewa Jozefkowicz, full of friendship, adventure, and learning through nature, with fun illustrations on every page.In Willow Wish Woods stands the ancient Emerald King. It is the tallest tree in the forest and there''s something special about it. Something magic... Benji, Shyla, Ajay, Trix, Fujiko and Eric discover its branches are damaged. Who could have hurt the tree, and why? The stream, the Tadpole Run, is full of rubbish, and there''s not a frog in sight. The friends decide to form the Woodland Explorers Club. Their mission is to solve the mystery of the Emerald King, protect the animals of Willow Wish Woods and bring the magic of the forest back to life.Join the Explorers on their next adventure, Shyla''s Wood Wide Web publishing in November 2024!

Read more less

Book SynopsisNobody suspects that intelligent life exists on other planets until a cylinder falls to Earth and lands in the town of Woking. From this ominous metallic cylinder emerge the unsightly Martians, equipped with terrifying killing machines. Although the Martians initially provoke local curiosity, this rapidly turns to fear as the savage attacks begin.

Read more less

Book SynopsisMeet Duggee and the Squirrels in this bright and colourful board book with 7 tabs!Duggee loves playing with the Squirrels in the clubhouse. Pick a tab, lift it up and get ready to find out about Duggee, the Squirrels and some of Duggee''s other friends too!Perfect introduction to the Hey Duggee characters for little fans.

Read more less

Book SynopsisDuggee and the Squirrels are playing hide-and-seek!Where are the Squirrels hiding? Join the hunt to find the Squirrels in this interactive lift-the-flap story. Duggee is coming - ready or not!Want more lift-the-flap fun? Also look out for: Hey Duggee: Treasure Hunt: A Lift-the-Flap Book Hey Duggee: Dinosaurs: A Lift-the-Flap Book

Read more less

Book SynopsisFree the Beasts. Live the Adventure. Join the New Protectors as they battle Beasts and fight Evil in the bestselling adventure series for boys and girls aged 7 and up!

Read more less

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

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn enchanting collection of nursery rhymes illustrated with beautiful vintage artwork by Dorothy M. Wheeler from 1916. Features a foreword by former Children''s Laureate Chris Riddell.The perfect gift for any time of year (from Christmas to christenings and birthdays), this sumptuous collection of nursery rhymes is illustrated with stunning watercolour artwork by Dorothy M. Wheeler, Enid Blyton''s original illustrator. All the your childhood favourites are here and ready to be passed on to the next generation, along with sheet music at the back for reference. This beautiful hardback has is a must-have for children of any age. The gorgeous vintage artwork decorates nursery favourites including Little Jack Horner, Jack and Jill and Humpty Dumpty and will draw young readers back again and again.Every child''s bookcase needs a book of Classic Nursery Rhymes and this is a beautiful and nostalgic hardback... this has a strong sense of having been hTrade ReviewEvery child's bookcase needs a book of Classic Nursery Rhymes and this is a beautiful and nostalgic hardback... this has a strong sense of having been handed down from an earlier generation. * The Publishers Association *

Read more less

Book SynopsisSoar with the Firebird, dance with the Nutcracker Prince and thrill at the drama of Romeo and Juliet in this beautifully illustrated collection of ballet stories. A delightful gift to enchant and inspire any ballet lover, with twelve stories specially retold for readers today. Includes links to websites with video clips and more about the ballets.

Read more less

Book Synopsis*A Waterstone's Best Book of 2024**A BookTrust Great New Book of 2024-2025**Longlisted for the UKLA book awards 2025* Join the Big Bad Wolf as he debunks your favourite fairy tales with SCIENCE! Written by the hilarious Catherine Cawthorne and illustrated by award-winning Sara Ogilvie. Did a princess really feel a tiny pea through a mountain of mattresses? And could a pumpkin actually turn into a carriage to carry Cinderella to the ball? Of course not! It's all a load of fairytale NONSENSE! Or is it . . . ? The Big Bad Wolf is on a mission to find the truth behind these tales, and clear his name in the process. Combining STEM topics with classic stories children know and love, this hilarious non-fiction picture book is perfect for inquisitive children always asking big questions!

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe most magical gift for anyone who loves the wizarding world! A stunning, interactive collector's set featuring the first three books in J.K. Rowling's spellbinding Harry Potter series, designed and illustrated by MinaLima the acclaimed studio behind the iconic graphics of the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films. Experience J.K. Rowling's first three Harry Potter stories as never before! Each hardback edition is brimming with MinaLima magic and features J.K. Rowling's complete and unabridged text accompanied by full-colour illustrations on nearly every page and eight brilliant paper-engineered elements: - Open up Harry's Hogwarts letter - Pull Mandrakes out of their pots - Fold out the Marauder's Map - Spin the Time-Turner and more! This box set includes Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets and Harry Potter and the Priso

Read more less

Book SynopsisRediscover the magical secrets at King's Cross station in a 25th anniversary illustrated edition of Eva Ibbotson's classic, The Secret of Platform 13.Under Platform 13 at King's Cross Station there is a secret door that leads to a magical island . . .It appears only once every nine years. And when it opens, four mysterious figures step into the streets of London. A wizard, an ogre, a fey and a young hag have come to find the prince of their kingdom, stolen as a baby nine years before.But the prince has become a horrible rich boy called Raymond Trottle, who doesn't understand magic and is determined not to be rescued.The Secret of Platform 13 is an exciting magical adventure from Eva Ibbotson, the award-winning author of Journey to the River Sea, in a special edition illustrated by Beatriz Castro. Discover more of the magical world with Sibéal Pounder's exciting adventure sequel, Beyond Platform 13, based on characters from Eva's original.'This kind of fun will never fail to delight' Philip PullmanTrade ReviewThe perfect alternative for Harry Potter fans * Independent on Sunday *This kind of fun will never fail to delight -- Philip Pullman

Read more less

Book Synopsis"These wittily illustrated stories of mishaps, hurt feelings, fondness and friendship have a transporting quality, ideal for 5+." GuardianBear and Bird are best friends! And while they don't always understand each other, they both agree: all they want is to make the other happy. So, when Bear and Bird find they both want to collect the same stick, they are absolutely determined not to let it get in the way of their friendship. And when Bird accidentally swaps Bear's bouncy ball on Swapsy Day, she will give anything to get it back even her own lucky hat. Full of comic mix-ups and misunderstandings, as well as genuine warmth and affection, these four stories make up the fourth instalment in this irresistibly charming chapter book series from award-winning creator Jarvis. Bear and Bird are fast becoming a firm favourite and their adventures are perfect to read aloud, or for children who are ready to start reading by themselves. Bear and Bird has all the charm and wisdom of Julian Gough and Jim Field's Rabbit and Bear series The illustrations are glorious. Irish Independent on Bear and Bird: The Picnic and Other Stories "Jarvis's digital drawings, in beautiful colors, have an attractive handmade feel." The New York Times Book Review on Bear and Bird: The Picnic and Other StoriesReaders can enjoy lots more Bear and Bird adventures! Look out for: Bear and Bird: The Picnic and Other Stories Bear and Bird: The Stars and Other Stories Bear and Bird: The Adventure and Other Stories Bear and Bird: The Cave and Other Stories Bear and Bird: The Secret and Other StoriesThe Cloud: A Bear and Bird picture book

Read more less

Book Synopsis17-year-old Lexi Carvalho is a small-town girl who is forcibly removed from the only life she has ever known. She wakes up to discover that she has been living in a simulation of Earth as it was in the early 21st century. Earth was destroyed centuries ago, and what's left of humanity lives in a nearby space station. Over 700,000 people, known as Iron Dreamers live within the simulation, unaware of the true reality. The simulation exists because the future has many problems, and what's left of humanity does not have the computing power or innovation to solve them all. People kept in suspension consume less food, space and oxygen. Lexi is recruited to capture an unknown figure who is sabotaging the simulation and putting all of humanity at risk. But why are they trying to destroy the simulation if it's been working for centuries? And why was Lexi woken from it?

Read more less

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

Read more less

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

Read more less

Book SynopsisA moving story of understanding your heritage and loving who you are from award-winning author Maisie ChanMy name is Nate Yu Riley, and sometimes I think I'm the worst Chinese person ever!Nate knows he looks Chinese on the outside - but what is he on the inside?

Read more less

Book SynopsisCan friendships survive as Denny relives the good times and rewrites the bad? A comic and compelling tale from award-winning author Keith Gray.It's the end of the summer and Denny is having to move away with his mum now that she's found a good job, but he's not planning on leaving quietly. He's made a list of scores to settle and wrongs to right before he goes. He asks his best friend, Jake, to help.Jake is absolutely gutted that Denny is leaving and worries what life will be like without him. Of course he'll do anything to help, no matter how weird or unrealistic the items on Denny's list might be. But the list is more powerful than either of them realise it can make and break friendships.

Read more less

Book SynopsisAs summer begins, the wood comes alive with new sounds, but without a distinctive one of her own to join in with, Rabbit feels left out. With the help of his friends, Fletcher the fox decides to put on a show where everyone''s talents can shine - including Rabbit. The second of four Fletcher titles themed around the passing seasons.

Read more less

Book Synopsis‘… the individual man is an insoluble puzzle …’ Miss Mary Morstan receives a strange letter, telling her to meet an unknown benefactor to discover the truth about her missing father. With Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson on the case, the ensuing events spark an investigation that reveals a dreadful secret. Following the story of four men and stolen Agra treasure, Holmes is led on a journey that brings him to a wooden-legged man, determined to seek revenge.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisDevelop your reading skills with Spidey, Ghost-Spider and Miles Morales as they learn about teamwork and save the day

Read more less