Children & Teen Fiction Books

Book SynopsisLily''s grandmother tells her all about the mysterious whales out in the bay, and Lily longs to hear their magical song. Gary Blythe''s richly evocative artwork creates an incredibly atmospheric world for a timeless tale of wildlife and wonder.This stunning, award-winning picture book has been refreshed and redesigned in a new edition, making it perfect for a new generation to share and fall in love with.Trade ReviewA book of haunting images . . . a wistful, elusive fable * Independent *

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Book SynopsisMeet Lin Yi a little boy with a big heart and a talent for bargaining. Tonight is the moon festival and he wants nothing more than a red rabbit lantern; but first he must buy the things his mother needs at the market. This heartwarming story shows the rewards of putting others first, and includes educational notes at the end about the Chinese moon festival, life in rural China, and the legend of the moon fairy.

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Book Synopsis''Oh grandmama, what great big teeth you have!''Charles Perrault''s versions gave classic status to the humble fairy tale, and it is in his telling that the stories of Little Red Riding-Hood, Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella and the rest have been passed down from the seventeenth century to the present day. Perrault''s tales were enjoyed in the salons of Louis XIV as much as they were loved in the nursery, and it is their wit, humour, and lively detail that capture the imagination of adult and child alike. They transmute into vivid fantasies the hidden fears and conflicts by which children are affected: fears of abandonment, or worse, conflicts with siblings and parents, and the trials of growing up. In addition to the familiar stories, this edition also includes the three verse tales - the troubling account of patient Griselda, the comic Three Silly Wishes, and the notorious Donkey-Skin. This new translation by Christopher Betts captures the tone and flavour of Perrault''s world, and the dTrade ReviewBett's new edition positions Perrault in relation to the many other tales in circulation before and after, offering helpful comparisions. * Margaret ReynoldsThe Times *Bett's new translation of the tales is subtle and clever. * Margaret Reynolds, The Times *Table of ContentsThe History of Griselda ; Three Silly Wishes ; Donkey-Skin ; The Sleeping Beauty in the Wood ; Little Red Riding-Hood ; Bluebeard ; Puss in Boots ; The Fairies ; Cinderella ; Ricky the Tuft ; Hop o'my Thumb

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Book SynopsisStep into the wild world of the Warrior Cats wild cat excitement, epic battles and tribal rivalry! Myths and legends surround the four cat clans, in this thrilling feline fantasy adventure.The thrilling saga of battling cat clans concludes in the sixth book of this fantastic feline fantasy.ThunderClan''s darkest hour is upon them, as Tigerstar''s quest for power plunges all the Clans into the most terrible danger any cat has ever faced. Fireheart prepares to pit his wits against his arch-enemy, but the real danger he must face is even more terrible.The time has come for phrophecies to unfold and for heroes to riseTrade ReviewPraise for A Dangerous Path "Brilliantly written by someone who knows what children like to read. Inspired." The Gateway "Another fabulous book in the excellent series… plenty of twists and turns. Any 9 to13 year old should have these books!" Kidaround ***** Warriors is the best series ever! A kid’s review, Amazon website Certain to please any young reader who has ever wondered what dreams of grandeur may haunt the family cat. Publishers Weekly Warriors: Into The Wild is the best book I've read in ages. It's really exciting… Even better than Brian Jaques’ Redwall. I can't wait for the next one! John Wood (age 12) Warriors: Fire and Ice. Characters remain true to their feline natures, adding to the plausibility of events in this tension-filled story. Readers will be happy to learn that another episode is in the works. Booklist Warriors: Forest of SecretsAnother dynamic episode sure to please series fans. Booklist

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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.It's a dreadful shock for Horrid Henry when Perfect Peter is born, and despite his best - or worst - efforts, he can't manage to get rid of him. As Peter gets bigger, Henry gets crosser adn crosser, but the day comes when Henry inadvertently finds himself saving Peter and discovers that its rather nice to be a hero.Trade Reviewideal for new readers * THE HERALD *'Tony Ross's fun and fresh illustrations add more mischief to the spirit of Horrid Henry'. * Waterstone's Books Quarterly *

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Book SynopsisIt's the summer of AD 79 and Flavia Gemina and her friends, Jonathan, Nubia and Lupus, set sail for the Bay of Naples where they are going to stay with Flavia's uncle near Pompeii. Once they arrive, they are soon absorbed in a quest to solve a riddle that may lead to treasure. But then tragedy strikes: Mount Vesuvius erupts and the friends must flee for their lives!Not just a mystery - this is an absolutely thrilling action adventure that brings history to life!Trade Review"This is an interesting and exciting read that is extremely well researched. It is packed with accurate detail of everyday Roman life. The story is so well paced and involving that you don't realise just how much information you are absorbing." School Librarian, Summer 2002 "The Secrets of Vesuvius in the immensely readable Roman Mysteries series by Caroline Lawrence again features a kind of classical famous five: Flavia Gemina and her friends, Jonathan, Nubia and Lupus, plus Scuto the dog, meet the great Pliny while on holiday in Pompeii and end up near Mount Vesuvius on the fateful night it erupted. An enormous amount of information about the ancient world is conveyed under the guise of a jolly good romp." -- Fiona Lafferty TES, 30 Aug 02 "Lawrence weaves an engaging spell, painting first-century Italy vividly." Good Book Guide

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Book SynopsisAlmost fifty years ago, Ian Fleming, author of James Bond, wrote Chitty Chitty Bang Bang as a bedtime story for his son.Frank Cottrell Boyce, Children's Laureate 20242026, jumps into the driving seat and takes Chitty into the twenty-first century. He is an award-winning author and screenwriter. Millions, his debut children's novel, won the CILIP Carnegie Medal. He is also the author of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Flies Again, Cosmic, Framed, The Astounding Broccoli Boy and Runaway Robot. His books have been shortlisted for a multitude of prizes, including the Guardian Children's Fiction Prize, the Whitbread Children's Fiction Award (now the Costa Book Award) and the Roald Dahl Funny Prize. Sputnik's Guide to Life on Earth was shortlisted for the 2017 CILIP Carnegie Medal and selected for the inaugural WHSmith Tom Fletcher Book Club.Frank is a judge for the 500 Words competition and the BBC's One Show As You W

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Book SynopsisThe story of Annie - everyone''s favourite orphan - with an introduction by writer, actor and comedian Miranda Hart.It''s 1933 and for as long as she can remember, 11 year old Annie has believed that her mother and father would come back to her New York City orphanage to get her. But mean Miss Hannigan the headmistress is making Annie''s life a misery. So she runs away to find her parents - and along the way she rescues a friendly dog, meets millionaire Oliver Warbucks, and has a many scary and exciting adventures. Will kind-hearted Annie find a way to escape her hard-knock life?The author THOMAS MEEHAN is the playwright of the original Broadway play and he has expanded the story of the plucky little orphan in this classic American tale.Thomas Meehan was born in New York in 1929. He worked as a journalist for the New Yorker magazine and wrote comedy sketches for the satirical TV show, ''That Was the Week That Was''. He received a Tony Award for Annie in 1977, for The Producers in 2001 and in 2003 for the musical Hairspray. He currently lives in New York city and in Nantucket, Massachusetts.Also available in A Puffin Book: GOODNIGHT MISTER TOM and BACK HOME by Michelle Magorian CHARLOTTE''S WEB, STUART LITTLE and THE TRUMPET OF THE SWAN by E. B. White THE BORROWERS by Mary NortonSTIG OF THE DUMP by Clive KingROLL OF THUNDER, HEAR MY CRY by Mildred D. TaylorA DOG SO SMALL by Philippa PearceGOBBOLINO by Ursula Moray WilliamsMRS FRISBY AND THE RATS OF NIMH by Richard C O''BrienA WRINKLE IN TIME by Madeleine L''EngleTHE CAY by Theodore TaylorTARKA THE OTTER by Henry WilliamsonWATERSHIP DOWN by Richard AdamsSMITH by Leon GarfieldTHE NEVERENDING STORY by Michael EndeTHE FAMILY FROM ONE END STREET by Eve Garnett

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Book SynopsisPercy Jackson and the Sea of Monsters is the second awesome adventure in Rick Riordan''s bestselling series. *This new edition will tie-in with the star-studded and eagerly awaited new Percy Jackson film from Twentieth Century Fox.*Half Boy. Half God. ALL Hero.You can''t tell by looking at me that my dad is Poseidon, God of the Sea.It''s not easy being a half-blood these days. Even a simple game of dodgeball becomes a death match against an ugly gang of cannibal giants - and that was only the beginning.Now Camp Half-Blood is under attack, and unless I can get my hands on the Golden Fleece, the whole camp will be invaded by monsters. Big ones . . .Rick Riordan has now sold an incredible 55 million copies of his books worldwideRICK RIORDAN IS THE MYTHMASTERThe Greek Gods are alive and kicking - go to www.rickriordanmythmaster.co.uk and see for yourselfTrade ReviewPuns, jokes and subtle wit, alongside a gripping storyline * Telegraph *

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Book SynopsisColour and magic combine in this enchanting new middle grade fantasy from the bestselling author of the Shatter Me series.Born as blank as canvas in a world brimming with colour and magic, Alice''s pale skin and milk-white hair mark her as an outcast. Because, for the people of Ferenwood, colour and magic are one and the same. And since the disappearance of her beloved father, Alice is more determined than ever to prove herself and her own magical abilities.To do so she''ll have to travel into the mythical, dangerous land of Furthermore, with the help of a fiercely annoying boy named Oliver. But nothing in Furthermore is as it seems, and it will take all of Alice''s wits to find her father and return him safely home.

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Book SynopsisA New York Times bestseller and laugh out loud thriller from Carl Hiaasen about a missing cousin, a half-crazy governor, giant gators and justice -- swamp justice, that is.Typical Malley - to avoid being shipped off to boarding school, she takes off with some guy she met online. Poor Richard - he knows his cousin's in trouble before she does. Wild Skink - he's a ragged, one-eyed ex-governor of Florida, and enough of a renegade to think he can track Malley down. With Richard riding shotgun, the unlikely pair scour the state, undaunted by blinding storms, crazed pigs, flying bullets and giant gators. Carl Hiaasen first introduced readers to Skink more than 25 years ago in DOUBLE WHAMMY, and he quickly became Hiaasen's most iconic and beloved character, appearing in six novels to date. Both teens and adults will be thrilled to catch sight of the elusive 'governor' as he pursues his own unique brand of swamp justice. With Skink at the wheel, the search for a missing girl is both nail-bitingly tense and laugh-out-loud funny.Trade ReviewA spectacularly weird and wonderful read * Pop Sugar *A crime story with a difference * School Librarian *Satire is a powerful weapon in the hands of an expert , and you're more likely to laugh out loud than cry during this book because the situations the characters get themselves into are so utterly off-the-wall... well worth a look. * THE BOOK BAG *An hilarious, edge of your seat read. Animal lovers everywhere will love this great story about dangerous creatures, which also gives a behind the scenes look at how the worst TV shows are made. -- Julia Eccleshare * LOVEREADING4KIDS *

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Book SynopsisA stunning new hardback edition of this timeless classic. This is the best loved of all the Chronicles of Narnia the first one ever written, and the book everybody remembers reading as a child.This is the land of Narnia, said the Faun, where we are now. And you you have come from the wild woods of the west!I I got in through the wardrobe in the spare room, said Lucy.Lucy steps into the Professor''s wardrobe but steps out again into a snowy forest. She''s stumbled upon the magical world of Narnia, a land of unicorns, centaurs, fauns and the wicked White Witch, who terrorises all. Lucy soon realises that Narnia, and in particular Aslan, the great Lion, needs her help if the county''s creatures are ever going to be free againTrade Review‘The magic of C. S. Lewis’s parallel universe never fades.’ The Times

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Book SynopsisBreakfast is a Common Core exemplar text for Grades K-l.

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Book SynopsisHis teacher tries to help him be red (let's draw strawberries!), his mother tries to help him be red by sending him out on a playdate with a yellow classmate (go draw a nice orange!), and the scissors try to help him be red by snipping his label so that he has room to breathe.Trade Review"[A] fresh approach to colors and feelings... Readers will share all the emotional elements of the tale-humor, despair, sadness, frustration, and finally, excitement." -- Booklist (starred review) "When a red-labeled crayon discovers he's actually blue, he finds joy, ebullience and acceptance... Hall's compositions ... convey a strong sense of emotion. Red captures [his feelings] ... in an exuberant, far-reaching sky. Smartly designed and appealing, Red's story offers much for discussion and affirmation." -- Kirkus Reviews "Crayon Red may be labeled red, but he colors blue... Once he lets go of his label and proclaims, "I'm blue!" everything turns around ... Smart design, bold colors, and sharp details keep the story both effective and amusing." -- Horn Book Magazine "Red is a crayon, and children will see his problem right away: his label reads 'red,' but he's blue... The overly cheerful encouragement Red endures will sound familiar to any child who's struggled to perform... Unexpectedly affecting." -- Publishers Weekly "Funny and poignant ... Hall's latest picture book is all about staying true to oneself, no matter what others say... Witty and heartwarming [and] sure to become a favorite for children and adults alike." -- School Library Journal "Funny and clever, with a wonderful message about embracing who we are." -- Huffington Post "This story of mistaken identity has a simple yet profound premise that makes it feel fresh." -- USA Today "[A] smart, insightful coming-of-age story for [the] youngest readers." -- Shelf Awareness

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Book SynopsisChristopher Paolini is the creator of the World of Eragon and the Fractalverse. His blockbuster The Inheritance Cycle (Eragon, Eldest, Brisingr, Inheritance) has sold more than 40 million copies worldwide. First published at nineteen, he is the holder of the Guinness World Record for youngest author of a bestselling series. Christopher makes his home in Paradise Valley, Montana, where he continues to write stories and ask questions. Find out more about Christopher and all things Inheritance Cycle on social media and at paolini.net.Trade ReviewIf you're not already a Paolini fan, now is the time to rush out and buy the three previous books, as this is the final instalment of the epic story which began with Eragon. * Book Time *Inheritance is the final book of the wildly popular "Inheritance Cycle" by wunderkind Christopher Paolini. In this thrilling conclusion, Eragon and his dragon, Saphira, take the fate of their world into their own hands. The evil king, Galbatorix, must be defeated and justice returned to the realm, but can the young dragonrider handle the pressure? That remains to be seen. * The Christian Science Monitor *Featuring spectacular artwork by John Jude Palencar, this book brings the bestselling Inheritance cycle to a breathtaking conclusion. * Middlesbrough Evening Gazette *It is an extremely compelling and well written book, set in the magical land of Alagaesia, and is one of the best fantasy books I have read. Christopher Paolini is a great author who has been able to conjure up a fantastical yet believable world.This is just as brilliant as all the other books in the series and ends spectacularly, but not in the way I expected... * Guardian *The Dragon has landed! Paolini's conclusion to his popular saga for young adults has been eagerly anticipated and at 880 pages, it's a whopper! Can Eragon the Dragon Rider restore peace to Alagaesia? -- Kate Lazenby * Western Morning News *

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Book SynopsisSam Taplin grew up in a beautiful valley in Yorkshire, where he dreamed of being a writer, and after three years reading other people's books at university he started writing his own for Usborne. He's been doing it ever since. When he's not writing about lonely rabbits or inquisitive bears, he likes doing card tricks, writing songs and playing long games of chess by the fire.

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Book SynopsisEight favourite Greek myths illustrated in colourful, cartoon-strip style!The Greek myths are among the greatest, most exciting stories ever told and feature some of the world''s best loved heroes and heroines. In this book, you''ll find the stories of Theseus, conqueror of the dreaded Minotaur; the mighty Heracles and his twelve tasks; the tragic lovers Orpheus and Eurydice; Perseus, the Gorgon-slayer; the musician Arion and his rescue by the dolphins; Pandora and her little box of horrors; the feather-clad fliers Daedalus and Icarus; and the weaving contest between Arachne and the goddess Athene. Each of these tales has been retold with lively text and dramatic cartoon style, making them accessible and fun for young children.Trade ReviewWilliams is one of our very best retellers of the classics. * The Independent on Sunday *Crammed with hilarious, minutely detailed strip drawing. Smashing. * The Guardian *Terrific ... irresistibly entertaining. * The Daily Telegraph *I defy anybody not to laugh out loud ... It's also uncannily accurate. * Books for Your Children *Eight legends retold with pith and punch ... The strip-cartoon style makes the stories feel new. * The Independent on Sunday *Featured/recommended in Greece article * Travel for Kids *

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Book SynopsisDear reader,There is nothing to be found in Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events' but misery and despair. You still have time to choose another international best-selling series to read. But if you insist on discovering the unpleasant adventures of the Baudelaire orphans, then proceed with cautionViolet, Klaus, and Sunny Baudelaire are intelligent children. They are charming, and resourceful, and have pleasant facial features. Unfortunately, they are exceptionally unlucky.In The Slippery Slope the siblings face a secret message, a toboggan, a deceitful trap, a swarm of snow gnats and a scheming villainIn the tradition of great storytellers, from Dickens to Dahl, comes an exquisitely dark comedy that is both literary and irreverent, hilarious and deftly crafted.Despite their wretched contents, A Series of Unfortunate Events' has sold 60 million copies worldwide and been made into a Hollywood film starring Jim Carrey. And in the future things are poised to get much worse, thanks to the forthcoming Netflix series starring Neil Patrick Harris. You have been warned.Are you unlucky enough to own all 13 adventures?The Bad BeginningThe Reptile RoomThe Wide WindowThe Miserable MillThe Austere AcademyThe Ersatz ElevatorThe Vile VillageThe Hostile HospitalThe Carnivorous CarnivalThe Slippery SlopeThe Grim GrottoThe Penultimate PerilThe EndAnd what about All the Wrong Questions? In this four-book series a 13-year-old Lemony chronicles his dangerous and puzzling apprenticeship in a mysterious organisation that nobody knows anything about:Who Could That Be at This Hour?'When Did you Last See Her?'Shouldn't You Be in School?'Why is This Night Different from All Other Nights?'Lemony Snicket was born before you were and is likely to die before you as well. He was born in a small town where the inhabitants were suspicious and prone to riot. He grew up near the sea and currently lives beneath it. Until recently, he was living somewhere else.Brett Helquist was born in Ganado, Arizona, grew up in Orem, Utah, and now lives in New York City. He earned a bachelor's degree in fine arts from Brigham Young University and has been illustrating ever since. His art has appeared in many publications, including Cricket magazine and The New York Times.Trade Review‘Perhaps A Series of Unfortunate Events is so special simply because Handler saw children as people. He took his readers seriously' – Guardian ‘Lemony Snicket is the new Harry Potter’ – Entertainment Weekly ‘Deliciously wicked and wonderful’ – The Times ‘Lemony Snicket is a publishing phenomenon’ – Independent ‘Harry Potter’s worst nightmare’ – Evening Standard

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Book SynopsisLooking out of the window one evening Mrs Grinling spots a whaleon the beach and - oh no - it's stuck! Mr and Mrs Grinling realisethey can't possibly move the whale alone, but will they be ableto get everyone to help before it's too late?

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Book SynopsisMidoriya inherits the superpower of the world’s greatest hero, but greatness won’t come easy.Prose short stories featuring the everyday school lives of My Hero Academia’s fan-favorite characters.It’s time for class 1-A to start getting ready for the end-of-the-year holidays. As excited as everyone is for Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and the New Year itself, preparing means undertaking a big winter cleaning. The unsuspecting students get a big surprise when their cleaning leads to a crazy discovery. There’s only one way to find out where the mysterious entrance they uncover leads to—and that means rustling up some Plus Ultra spirit and venturing inside!

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Book SynopsisA story about how the elephant got his trunk, that is adapted from an original African folklore tale. This paperback book comes complete with stickers for interactive storytelling which your little one can get involved in the story.

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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. Also available in audiobook! In book two a priceless pearl necklace goes missing. The Secret Seven are first off the mark to catch the thief. Why? Because they saw him making his escape! Now all they have to do is find the necklace...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 1950 This edition features the classic text and comes with a Bonus Blyton section at the back with quizzes, puzzles and other bonus extras! Enid Blyton , The Secret Seven and Enid Blyton''s signature are Registered Trademarks of Hodder and Stoughton Limited. No trademark or copyrighted material may be reproduced without the express written permission of the trademark and copyright own

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Book SynopsisAt the end of his thousand-year reign of the Copper Mountains, old King Mansolain is tired and his heart is slowing down. When his attendant, the Hare, consults The Wonder Doctor, he is told he must keep the King engaged in life by telling him a story every night until the Doctor can find a cure. The search is on for a nightly story more wonderful than the last, and one by one the kingdom's inhabitants arrive with theirs; the ferocious Wolf, the lovesick Donkey, the fire-breathing three-headed Dragon. Last to arrive is the Dwarf, with four ancient books and a prophecy that the King will live for another thousand years - but only if the Wonder Doctor returns in time.Trade ReviewA triumphant piece of magic' -- Observer 'Amusing, endearing and intensely moving' -- Daily Telegraph 'The best book of all for this age [7+]' -- The Times

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Book SynopsisRumiko Takahashi’s epic in a large prestige format including bonus color pages!Kagome is an ordinary modern schoolgirl living an ordinary life. Who would have thought the dried-up old well on the site of her family''s shrine would be a gateway to Japan''s ancient past? Drawn through the gate against her will, Kagome finds herself battling demons for control of what she thought was a worthless trinket but is actually a powerful magical gem, the Shikon Jewel! Together with an unlikely ally, the half demon Inuyasha, Kagome begins a quest to recover the shards of the Shikon Jewel and learn more about her link to the past.Shifting AlliancesNaraku steals the sacred stone of the “living mountain” demon Gakusanjin. Then, thieves have their eye on the gift Gakusanjin gives Inuyasha to help him and his friends retrieve the stone!Old and new enemies—all a manifestation of Naraku or each other—rear their ugly heads: Hakudo

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Book SynopsisIn this charming debut fantasy perfect for fans of Sorcery of Thorns and Girls of Paper and Fire, a witch cursed to never love meets a girl hiding her own dangerous magic, and the two strike a dangerous bargain to save their queendom.Tamsin is the most powerful witch of her generation. But after committing the worst magical sin, she’s exiled by the ruling Coven and cursed with the inability to love. The only way she can get those feelings back—even for just a little while—is to steal love from others. Wren is a source—a rare kind of person who is made of magic, despite being unable to use it herself. Sources are required to train with the Coven as soon as they discover their abilities, but Wren—the only caretaker to her ailing father—has spent her life hiding her secret. When a magical plague ravages the queendom, Wren’s father falls victim. To save him, Wren proposes a bargain: if Tamsin will help her catch the dark witch responsible for creating the plague, then Wren will give Tamsin her love for her father. Of course, love bargains are a tricky thing, and these two have a long, perilous journey ahead of them—that is, if they don’t kill each other first.Trade Review"An especially slow-burn romance, as Tamsin’s curse prevents her from feeling, but the buildup allows for deeper character development and a very satisfying conclusion. Tooley’s debut skillfully and subtly emphasizes the consequences of prioritizing power above people and the environment while the friction between regular people and magic-bearers poignantly echoes the fear and rejection queer people, who are accepted in this world, often face in ours.... Thoughtful, ambitious, and unexpected." -- Kirkus

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Book SynopsisOnce Upon a Tune brings you six wonderful stories from many lands, all of which inspired great music. You can battle trolls with Peer Gynt if you go In The Hall of the Mountain King; grapple with a magic broom in The Sorcerer’s Apprentice, meet the evil Witch of the North in The Swan of Tuonela, sail the seven seas with Sinbad the Sailor in Scheherazade; be a prince disguised as a bee in The Flight of the Bumblebee and become a fearless hero in William Tell. The stories are excitingly told and stunningly illustrated by James Mayhew, who is famous for bringing live classical music, art and storytelling to families across the UK. There are also Musical Notes where you can find out more about the stories and music, plus James’s recommended recordings to download and listen to. Trade Review"A gorgeous gift book of six stories which inspired world-famous music…vibrantly illustrated in Mayhew’s own full-colour art. The book includes Musical Notes on works and composers" -- Fiona Noble * The Bookseller *"A glorious, magical, lyrical book full of thrills and wonder and magic! Just look at the artwork!" * The Reading Realm (via Twitter) *"Each tale is sumptuously illustrated throughout and readers will spend time looking closely at the colourful detail in each picture. As well as this, the book includes Musical Notes where you can find out more about the stories and if, like me, you are inspired to listen to the music, the author includes recommended recordings. This is a splendid resource for any children to begin learning more about classical music and I hope will be found in all primary schools." * The Letterpress Project *“Magnificent and generous…you can tell that creating it has been a heartfelt project and mission for James Mayhew, who both recounts the stories and illustrates them, in a style perfectly fitted to the target audience (5+). The book is beautifully designed…the artwork is breathtakingly good. ACHUKA cannot recommend this book highly enough.” * Achuka - Book of the Day *"With each of the stories we are drawn into exciting and beautifully illustrated worlds of magic and story, of adventures of a lifetime." * Armadillo *"One of the most beautiful looking books I've seen for a very long time. It's an absolutely captivating combination of art, storytelling ad classical music...A delight, pure and simple." -- Jon Biddle * Twitter *"A truly unique, beautifully illustrated picture book, sharing what James does so beautifully: bringing story and music together to ignite your imagination and inspire you to go on your own musical journey." -- Jo Bowers * Twitter *"A vibrant collection...This book is a rich introduction to international fairytales and to classical music." -- Nicolette Jones * Sunday Times *"A beautiful new book capturing the magic of stories behind major orchestral works." * Gramophone *“The stories are excitingly told and stunningly illustrated.” * Mr Ripley's Enchanted Books blog *“Each [story] is illustrated and told with James’s consummate skill and artistry… I love so many things about this book, not least being the clever way in which snippets of musical notation form part of the stunning illustrations on every spread… This is a book that surely deserves a place on family bookshelves and in classroom collections.” * Red Reading Hub *“A beautiful book, full of stunning illustrations...a true celebration of the timeless appeal of a good story…The artwork is sure to inspire children to create collages or paintings of scenes from stories or perhaps to paint whilst listening to the music as James does so brilliantly…both beautifully designed and beautifully written- an absolute joy!” * North Somerset Children's Book Award blog *“A beautiful book, full of stunning illustrations. Six stories from around the world have been lovingly retold and each has been the inspiration for wonderful music…beautifully designed and beautifully written- an absolute joy!” -- The Reading Zone“This beautiful hardback contains six stories compellingly retold and wonderfully illustrated…A fantastic way to introduce orchestral music to young people and to combine it with magical storytelling.” * Juno *“James Mayhew breathes new life into folklore and myths from around the world by weaving motifs and artwork using different techniques and letting the music infuse his brushes, and the pages, with such an inspired sensitivity and touch, the reader is transported to magical lands far and wide…It should be in every classroom and in every home, as fairy tale to read and look at, a learning aid in the creative curriculum, and, deeper still, a 'magic carpet' and balm for the soul!” * Readinggroups.org, The Reading Agency *“A really gorgeous book which would be a wonderful gift or addition to your bookshelf.” * BookTrust *"A rich introduction to international fairytales and to classical music, with retellings of the tales behind six celebrated pieces, from Scheherazade to William Tell. Influenced by the folk art of the source countries, the sumptuous images reflect the mood of the music." -- Nicolette Jones * Sunday Times Children's Books of the Year *“A simply stunning book crafted with love and skill. It contains six carefully selected stories which have inspired great pieces of Classical music…A perfect gift book likely to be treasured and pored over by adults and children alike.” -- Nicolette Jones * Books for Keeps 5 star review *"Once Upon a Tune: Stories from the Orchestra by James Mayhew (Otter-Barry) contains six absorbing tales, each the source of wonderful music, all brought to life by Mayhew’s compelling storytelling and exquisitely textured pictures. This gorgeous introduction to works such as Peer Gynt and Scheherazade explores musical context, and provides links to recommended recordings." -- Imogen Russell Williams * The Guardian: Best Children's Books of 2021 *

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Book SynopsisIn the prettiest parts of the Forest of Hearts, a cute little unicorn was born. Its mane was puffy, its fur SUPER fluffy... But as adorable as it looked, it didn't behave like the other unicorns in its herd. 'NO' was its favourite word! No matter how many sweet lucky clovers or soft squishy cuddles that the other unicorns offered, the answer was always 'NO'. And so this unicorn became known as the uNOcorn.It's no surprise that one day our contrary unicorn decides to break free of its cotton-candy world and have an adventure of its own. Along the way, the uNOcorn meets a raccoon who never listens ('Huh?'), a dog who doesn't care ('So what?') and a rude princess (whose favourite word is 'YES!'). What a wonderful team they make, because being stubborn is much more fun together!

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Book SynopsisTwo people from opposite sides of town. One long hot summer...Before the epic romance of the hit romance The QB Bad Boy and Me, there was the story of Drayton''s Lahey''s parents, Leroy and Ellie, and the one summer that changed everything.It''s the year 1998 and seventeen-year-old Ellie is about to have the summer of her life with her new boyfriend, Leroy.Even though they are from two different worlds and two very different families, their love is one of a kind. But between troublesome brothers and strict parents, rowdy parties and epic concerts, Ellie and Leroy will discover that there is more in store for them that summer than they could have ever imagined.The sizzling stand-alone prequel to Wattpad hit THE QB BAD BOY AND ME.***PRAISE FOR THE QB BAD BOY AND ME*** This book was such a page-turner! It was funny, perfectly paced, and always kept me guessing. An instant favorite! - Beth Reekles, author of The Kissing Booth A story filled with tons of plays that will hit you right in the feels. - Anna Todd, New York Times best-selling author of After

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Book SynopsisThis ELT Graded Reader is made for people learning English as an additional language. The short, simple text is also perfect for anyone looking for an easier read. It is an adapted version of the original story.This story is about sweet shops, school days and summer holidays! It is the story of the famous writer, Roald Dahl, when he was a boy. These tales are exciting, funny and sometimes frightening. All of them are true.Our Penguin Readers books include: Simple text (CEFR-levelled) Pictures to help you understand the story Fun exercises to help you learn and practise English With the print book, you can get even more help online: Read the book online Listen to the book being read out loud Get lesson plans for teachers Find answers to check your understanding Note: online resources not available with the eBook.

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Book SynopsisA brilliant detective story by one of Sweden's top children's writers and illustrated in full colour throughout. A book to read alone or aloud! A perfect case for the famous Detective Gordon, chief of police and chief of detectives in the forest. Unfortunately, solving this crime means standing in the snow and waiting for a long time . . . If only he had an assistant - someone small, fast, and clever.Trade Review“… full of warm humor and wisdom… with a feather-light touch” -- Best Books of 2015, Horn Book“KLA-DUNK! Another winner.” -- Starred Review, Kirkus Reviews“a must-have for chapter book collections” -- Starred Review, School Library Journal

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Book SynopsisBuild your child's reading confidence at home with books at the right levelCollins Big Cat supports every primary child on their reading journey from phonics to fluency. Top authors and illustrators have created fiction and non-fiction books that children love to read. Book banded for guided and independent reading, there are reading notes in the back, comprehensive teaching and assessment support and ebooks available.When Molly decides to escape from the Holiday Club and go for a wander, she finds herself lost in the maze-like corridors of Buston Civic Centre. On her quest to find her way back, Molly enters a series of wrong doors which leads to interesting and comical predicaments This humorous fiction story was written by Brandon Robshaw.White Plus/Band 10+ books provide challenging plots and vocabulary as well as opportunities to practise inference, prediction and reading stamina.Pages 46 and 47 allow children to re-visit the content of the book, supporting comprehension skills,

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Book SynopsisIt was a love story. Me, Gemma and junk. I thought it was going to last forever. Tar loves Gemma, but Gemma doesn't want to be tied down. She wants to fly. But no one can fly forever. One day, finally, you have to come down. Melvin Burgess’ most ambitious and complex novel is a vivid depiction of a group of teenagers in the grip of addiction. Told from multiple viewpoints, Junk is a powerful, unflinching novel about heroin. Once you take a hit, you will never be the same again. 'Everyone should read Junk' The TimesTrade Review"Everyone should read Junk." * The Times *"Melvin Burgess's ground-breaking Junk remains the best book about teenagers and drugs to this day" * Julia Eccleshare, Guardian Online *"Junk has a perfect sense of time and place, characters who feel real and it may just be the best YA book ever." -- Robert Muchamore * Big Issue, Top 5 Young Adult Books *"Occasionally a 'teenage novel' comes along which makes one reconsider the whole genre and its potential. Such a book is Melvin Burgess's Junk." -- Robert Dunbar * Children's Books in Ireland *"Personally I prefer the love triangle in Melvin Burgess’s Junk, in which Tar’s devotion to heroin split he and Gemma apart." -- Juno Dawson * Guardian *"This book is beguiling, layered and filled with a boldness that comes with youth." * Gemma Cairney *"Brilliantly and sensitively written, it encompasses the raw, savage and ecstatic world of the adolescent mind... a superbly crafted and important book" * TES *"Beautifully written" * The Times *"Believable and rivetingly readable. I couldn’t put it down." * Evening Standard *"Moving and provocative" * Observer *

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Book SynopsisThe third book in a wonderfully sparky, funny and warm series: THE BOY WHO GREW DRAGONS was shortlisted for the Waterstones Children's Book Prize'Irresistible ... a modern classic' GUARDIAN on The Boy Who Grew Dragons'A warm-hearted debut ... lovely, expressive, characterful' SUNDAY TIMES on The Boy Who Grew DragonsTomas can't imagine life without his little dragon Flicker. He's become more than a pet - he's a friend like no other. And growing dragons on the dragonfruit tree in the garden with his friends Ted, Kat and Kai is the most amazing thing ever. But Tomas has promised Grandad something - that he and his friends will let their dragons go back to where they belong. The only problem is - that isn't such an easy thing to do. Not when they are still having so much fun with dragons Flicker, Sunny, Crystal and Dodger. Not when they still have to work out where the dragons' home is, and how to get the dragons to leave. And not when Tomas is so close to uncovering the true story of the mysterious dragonfruit tree ...Trade ReviewShepherd's storytelling is aimed at young but bright readers, full of enthusiasm and momentum, it is ideal for reading aloud to eager ears, though possibly not at bedtime if you have any wish of getting them settled with lights out at a reasonable time, the swift plot unfolding with the involvement of nosey neighbours, secret maps and diaries with clues to the origin of the dragons and nocturnal excursions on Hallowe'en and Bonfire Night * Geek Chocolate *

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Book SynopsisThe fourth book in the page-turning SPELLSLINGER fantasy series.

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Book SynopsisThe Night Before Christmas is an enchanting Christmas story that has brought Santa Claus to life for generations. Celebrate the holiday season with the #1?New York Times bestselling edition of the classic poem written by Clement C. Moore. This is the classic board book edition, perfect for toddlers and gifting!'Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the houseNot a creature was stirring, not even a mouseCarry on a family tradition or start one of your own with this new version of the classic Christmas book for children and families. Initially published anonymously as A Visit from Saint Nicholas, and credited as a work by Clement Clark Moore, this timeless tale has been lovingly preserved in this classic edition. Bring the family together for a read-aloud as children prepare for Santa and his reindeer on Christmas Eve.This classic board book edition includes: A beautifully 24-page sturdy board book Rounded corners for toddlers Lavish vintage inspired illustrations by renowned, New York Times #1 bestselling artist Charles Santore The original poem by Clement Clark Moore A nod to Dutch references in the poem, specifically the Dutch name "Donder" for one of the reindeer The Night Before Christmas: Is perfect for family read-alouds or gatherings Makes a great holiday, Advent, or Christmas gift A classic for children ages of all ages or the nostalgic young at heart Charles Santore’s works has been widely exhibited in museums and celebrated with recognitions such as the prestigious Hamilton King Award, the Society of Illustrators Award of Excellence, and the Original Art 2000 Gold Medal from the Society of Illustrators. He is best known for his luminous interpretations of classic children’s stories, including Aesop Fables, The Velveteen Rabbit, The Classic Tale of Peter Rabbit, and more!

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Book SynopsisA beautiful gift edition of Aesop’s Fables featuring eight classic stories, charmingly retold in rhyming verse with stunning illustrations.Bringing together the incredible talents of award-winning illustrator and Booktrust Time to Read favourite, Marta Altés and author and poet, Elli Woollard, this unique collection of Aesop’s Fables is a fresh and funny take on an enduring classic. Richly illustrated throughout by Marta Altés, author of Little Monkey, this is perfect for new and younger readers and will delight children and adults alike. Meet the town mouse and his country cousin, discover what happens to the boy who cried wolf one too many times and find out just how the tortoise beat the boastful hare.A perfect companion title to Just So Stories, created by the same winning team.Stories include:Two Travellers and the BearThe Hare and the TortoiseThe Boy who cried WolfThe Donkey in the Lion's SkinThe Dog and his ReflectionThe Baboon and the FoxThe Peacock and the CraneThe Town Mouse and the Country MouseTable of ContentsChapter - 1: Two Travellers and the Bear Chapter - 2: The Hare and the Tortoise Chapter - 3: The Boy who cried Wolf Chapter - 4: The Baboon and the Fox Chapter - 5: The Dog and his Reflection Chapter - 6: The Town Mouse and the Country Mouse Chapter - 7: The Peacock and the Crane Chapter - 8: The Donkey in the Lion's Skin

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Book SynopsisFrom bestselling author and winner of the Blue Peter Best Story Book Award, Uki and the Outcasts is the first in a new trilogy set in the world of Podkin One-Ear.EXCELLENT,' says the bard. It's probably a good idea for you to know about him.'Wait . . . him? Who's him?' said Rue.Uki,' says the bard. Uki Patchwork. The Magpie Demon. Uki of the Two Furs.'From the Ice Wastes beyond the Cinder Wall emerges an unlikely hero. Rejected by his village and left to die, young Uki is given life and unique powers by a long-buried spirit from the time of the Ancients . . . and a life or death mission.Joined by two other outcasts a trained assassin who refuses to kill people and a very short rabbit who rides the fastest jerboa on the plains Uki must capture Valkus, the Spirit of War, before rabbitkind destroys itself in conflict.A thrilling new book set in the Five Realms o

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Book SynopsisIn a world divided by colonialism and threaded with magic, a desperate orphan turned pirate and a rebellious imperial lady find a connection on the high seas.Aboard the pirate ship Dove, Flora the girl takes on the identity of Florian the man to earn the respect and protection of the crew. For Flora, former starving urchin, the brutal life of a pirate is about survival: don't trust, don't stick out, and don't feel. But on this voyage, Flora is drawn to the Lady Evelyn Hasegawa, who is headed to an arranged marriage she dreads. Flora doesn't expect to be taken under Evelyn's wing, and Evelyn doesn't expect to find such a deep bond with the pirate Florian. Neither expects to fall in love.Soon the unlikely pair set in motion a wild escape that will free a captured mermaid (coveted for her blood) and involve the mysterious Pirate Supreme, an opportunistic witch, double agents, and the all-encompassing Sea herself.Deftly entwining swashbuckling action anTrade ReviewBloody, poetic, rich with pirate politics, captured mermaids and a witch who wields the magic of stories, Tokuda-Hall’s debut is original, satisfying and romantic – a swashbuckler with great imagination and emotional depth. * The Guardian *“The Mermaid, the Witch, and the Sea will take you on the journey of a lifetime. Maggie Tokuda-Hall has created characters I’ve never seen before, then put them in an adventure that feels more real than real life and twice as unpredictable. I wanted to live in the world of this book forever, and I can’t stop obsessing about the rich tapestry of pirates, mermaids, witches, and conniving nobles who inhabit it. The Mermaid, the Witch, and the Sea might just remind you of why you fell in love with adventure in the first place and change how you think about the genre forever. I envy anyone who’s getting to experience this incredible book for the first time.” * Charlie Jane Anders, author of the Nebula Award–winning novel All the Birds in the Sky *“An utterly romantic and breathless adventure that wouldn’t let me sleep until I’d devoured every last word. It’s a journey of love, magic, and self-discovery unlike any I’ve ever read.” * Dahlia Adler, author of Under the Lights and editor of His Hideous Heart *One of the best YA books I've read this year -- Katherine Webber[…] this was a fast paced, enjoyable read with some thoughtful and relevant issues raised. A book which will most appeal to teenage girls into adventure/fantasy/ romance around Year 9 and above. * The School Librarian *

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