Children’s / Teenage: Chapter books

Book SynopsisSeparated from the flock, Merlin the lamb desperately yearns to return home. His mummy had told him he was magic. Could his magic help him to get back to her? Merlin has no idea what his magic does but life presents him with several new companions in the form of three bouncy goats, three wise horses and a little girl who is able to understand what animals say. Each one teaches him that nature surrounds us with magic all the time. Finally, when Merlin discovers that his magic is making other people happy, he experiences deep joy and complete fulfilment. A whimsical tale for young and old…

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Book Synopsis* SHORTLISTED FOR THE ALLIGATOR'S MOUTH AWARD'Crammed full of characterful animal illustrations with accents of zinging pink, this flamboyant early chapter book is a splendid, unpreachy testament to the power of hard work' - The Guardian When young Anna inherits a dilapidated once-grand hotel from her Great Aunt Mathilde, she's determined to restore it to its former glory. But this is no ordinary hotel - all of her staff and guests are animals!Anna soon rises to the challenge. Whether it's a flamingo, a penguin or a hippo knocking at the door, Anna is ready to welcome them all - with the help of her trusty sidekicks T Bear the doorman, Squeak the friendly elevator mouse, and Lemmy the lemur receptionist ... As she soon finds out, though, running an animal hotel is no easy task. Can Anna make Hotel Flamingo a success once more?If you love Hotel Flamingo, try BIG SKY MOUNTAIN, the newest series of animal adventures from Alex Milway!PRAISE FOR HOTEL FLAMINGO'Truly heartwarming and uplifting. I'd love to book a room there myself' - Philip Ardagh'Hotel Flamingo is bursting with charm, friendship and fabulous characters!' - Laura Ellen Anderson'Five stars for Hotel Flamingo!' - Harriet WhitehornTrade ReviewIt's near-impossible to chose a favourite character in Alex Milway's utterly charming Hotel Flamingo; a marvellous menagerie, where the chef is a pig, the handyman a giraffe and where cockroaches are welcome paying guests. Funny though it is -- and it's certainly that -- it's also truly heartwarming and uplifting. I'd love to book a room there myself. -- Philip ArdaghThis is a delightful, fanciful tale that would make for a cute bedtime read for younger children and a perfect independent book for older littles * Queens of Geekdom *What a fantastic little book this is! Having inherited 'the sunniest hotel in town', Anna is determined to make it a success and shows that hard work and effort pay off. She is a delightful character, inspiring loyalty and friendship in others and welcoming all to her hotel * North Somerset Teachers Book Award *This flamboyant early chapter book is a splendid, unpreachy testament to the power of hard work. * Guardian *'A gentle hug of a book that's perfect for young boys and girls.' * Booktrust Great Reads Guide 2019 *Hotel Flamingo is the perfect book for the young. With notions of inclusivity, ideas of never giving up and the belief of working together has made this one of our current favourite reads. -- Vanessa * Babyccino Kids *

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Book Synopsis"Edward James, or Teddy as he was known, was just like any other boy, except Teddy had a very special grandfather. Teddy's grandfather had a farm!" But when it rains, disaster strikes! The farm quad bike gets trapped in a gateway a long way from home. How will Teddy and Grampy free the quad? Can they use the tractor? Or will everyone get ... STUCK IN THE MUD? Set on real-life family farm 'Hillside Farm', there are always lots of fun adventures for Teddy and Lara with Granny and Grampy! This is the first story in the series.Trade ReviewPraise for Anna Platts: 'The artwork is gorgeous, truly beautiful. They are reminiscent of some of the artwork from Edith Holden's "The Country Diary Of An Edwardian Woman" ... I absolutely loved them' --Goodreads reviewer

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Book SynopsisThe second instalment in the enchanting HOTEL FLAMINGO series, featuring the adventures of Anna and her array of animal friends! The temperature is rising, which can only mean one thing: it's summer! Bookings are up at Hotel Flamingo and the hotel is getting busy.Anna is excited to receive word from King Penguin royalty asking to holiday in their Royal Suite. But there's a lot to get done, and it's not easy to manage the needs of the penguins when there's a heatwave on and a huge ice shortage. Help! Can Anna get Hotel Flamingo back to its usual shining self and have happy guests all round?If you love Hotel Flamingo, try BIG SKY MOUNTAIN, the newest series of animal adventures from Alex Milway!PRAISE FOR HOTEL FLAMINGO'Crammed full of characterful animal illustrations with accents of zinging pink, this flamboyant early chapter book is a splendid, unpreachy testament to the power of hard work' - The Guardian'Truly heartwarming and uplifting' - Philip Ardagh'Bursting with charm, friendship and fabulous characters!' - Laura Ellen Anderson

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Book SynopsisMeet Izzy the Inventor in a laugh-out-loud series that brings together science, magic and a very lovable unicorn. Packed full of illustrations and easy-to-read text, this series is perfect for beginner readers and fans of Isadora Moon and The Naughtiest Unicorn. Izzy the Inventor is back in Fairytale Land and this time she must rescue a prince from a wicked fairy's curse. If she fails, he'll vanish! With the help of Henry the unicorn, Izzy needs to work out how to make it snow in summer, create an exploding volcano and a contraption to help Henry fly. But can Izzy's science skills stand up to an enormous dragon?Every book contains ideas for science experiments and a QR code with links for more to try at home. Collect all the books in the series!Izzy the Inventor and the Curse of DoomIzzy the Inventor and the Time Travelling GnomeIzzy the Inventor and the Teeny-Tiny Ogres

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Book SynopsisThe third book in the heartwarming HOTEL FLAMINGO series, featuring the adventures of Anna and her array of animal friends!It's the last of the autumn days before winter sets in, which means it's time for CARNIVAL! And Hotel Flamingo, the sunniest hotel in town, is all set to join the party. Animal Boulevard is a riot of colour, and every establishment is preparing a float for the annual procession. Anna is determined to win the prize for the best display, despite rival hotel the Glitz having won it every year since the Carnival began.Things start to get complicated, though, when Anna gets some very unexpected guests - the mega-famous band The Nocturnal Animals! How will she keep their stay a secret while also making sure her guests don't get kept awake by the band's night-time practising and antics? Then on top of this, disaster strikes! The rainy season comes early, and high winds and torrential rain lash down across the Boulevard. Can Anna save the Carnival, the band and the day? If you love Hotel Flamingo, try BIG SKY MOUNTAIN, the newest series of animal adventures from Alex Milway!PRAISE FOR HOTEL FLAMINGO'Crammed full of characterful animal illustrations with accents of zinging pink, this flamboyant early chapter book is a splendid, unpreachy testament to the power of hard work' - The Guardian'Truly heartwarming and uplifting' - Philip Ardagh'Bursting with charm, friendship and fabulous characters!' - Laura Ellen AndersonTrade ReviewIt's near-impossible to chose a favourite character in Alex Milway's utterly charming Hotel Flamingo; a marvellous menagerie, where the chef is a pig, the handyman a giraffe and where cockroaches are welcome paying guests. The new girl owner Anna's bid to return the hotel to its former glory and to outshine the nearby Glitz, is a tale of co-operation, ingenuity and fun, all brought to life in Milway's pitch-perfect words and pictures. Funny though it is -- and it's certainly that -- it's also truly heartwarming and uplifting. I'd love to book a room there myself. -- Philip Ardagh

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Book Synopsis‘Freewheeling frivolity’ – Financial Times ‘Once, and once only, there was a boy whose name was Fizzlebert.’ Fizzlebert Stump lives in a circus. His mum's a clown, his best friend is a bearded boy, and he sticks his head in a lion's mouth every night. Other than that, he's pretty normal. When Fish the sea lion goes missing Fizzlebert tracks down the runaway beast to an Aquarium, which has problems of its own. Fish (not Fish the sea lion, fish. Keep up.) are going missing, and the Admiral blames the circus. Can Fizzlebert solve the mystery, avoid an over-enthusiastic crocodile, and find his friend? The story of a boy, a lion, a sea lion, fish (but fewer than there used to be), a possible pirate, a temperamental cook and a very surprising octopus.Trade ReviewFreewheeling frivolity * Financial Times on FIZZLEBERT STUMP *Stuffed with laughs * Jeremy Strong on FIZZLEBERT STUMP *Children will love the Stanton/Ardargh-esque authorial tone * Telegraph on FIZZLEBERT STUMP *

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Book SynopsisDev loves cracking codes, but he never expected to crack a code and enrol in a school for spies! He loves his new school, where he learns about disguises and gadgets. When the headmasters calls him and his friends, Anya and Mo, to their first mission, Dev can''t wait to prove himself. But things don''t quite add up... can Dev figure out what''s really going on?

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Book SynopsisGiraffe is bored, as usual. Hed love a friend to share things with. So he writes a letter and sends it as far as possible across the other side of the horizon. There he finds a pen palPenguin. Giraffe knows nothing about penguins and his letters are full of questions. Where is a penguins neck? Can a penguin fly? Penguin answers as best he can. But no one expects what happens when the pen pals come face to face at last. Yours Sincerely, Giraffe is a funny tale of mistaken assumptions and friendship.Trade Review"This Japanese import will charm beginning readers who enjoy a bit of witty humor with their animal adventures. The pen-and-ink illustrations are simple yet have a Quentin Blake feel that rounds out the characters and their quirky behaviors." -- Starred Review, School Library Journal (US)"The combination of short narrative, dialogue, letters, and humorous pen-and-ink drawings is a winning one." -- Starred Review, Booklist (US)“This is a rare book: joyful, ingenuous, playfully earnest” -- starred review, Kirkus Reviews"The letters between the characters result in an absurdly funny get-together portrayed in humorous drawings." Outstanding International Book -- USBBY

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Book SynopsisBook Band: Gold (Ideal for ages 6+)A laugh-out-loud, zany tale about monsters, friendship and bath times, ideal for children practising reading at home or in school.Gerald the monster HATES baths. Being all washed and clean? Yuck! So Gerald's mum hires Maggie, a professional monster washer, to help. Can Gerald learn to have fun at bath time? This hilarious story from Amy Sparkes is perfect for Key Stage 1 (KS1) children who are learning to read by themselves. It features colour illustrations by Jack Viant and lovable characters that children will easily relate to._______________Bloomsbury Young Readers are the perfect way to get children reading, with book-banded stories by brilliant authors like Julia Donaldson. The series is ideal for both home and school, with gorgeous colour illustrations, tips for parents, and fun activity ideas. Online guided reading and teaching notes, written by the Centre for Literacy in Primary Education (CLPE), are available atTrade ReviewIn Ana Gómez’s bright jolly illustrations Gerald’s mum bears remarkable resemblance to something your granny might have created as a bathroom accessory back in the day. With its surprise finale Amy Sparkes’ addition to Bloomsbury Young Readers series should definitely go down well with learner readers. -- Jill Bennett * Red Reading Hub *This young readers book is a brilliant first chapter book - short, with just five chapters, larger font and colourful illustrations on every page which enhance the story perfectly. -- Jessica * @posies_book_club *

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Book SynopsisPuff the pup is digging a hole and finding lots of interesting things. But what does he find right at the bottom of the hole, and what is hidden inside it? This energetic story by Tony Mitton is illustrated by James Cottell.

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Book SynopsisIllustration superstar Nick Sharratt adds another bright and bold early reader to the bestselling Little Gems list. Today’s the day – it’s the tea party parade! The kids are in their costumes and the teachers are marching too. Teacups are twirling, cake slices are spinning, and the big finale is going to be the best show of all! Join in with all the fun of the parade in Nick Sharratt’s beautiful new Little Gem. Bursting with lots of rhyme, rhythm and energy for little ones to enjoy, it’s the perfect book for a young reader’s first steps on the path to reading independence.Trade Review"A joyful book" – Lancashire Evening Post "Sharratt's style works perfectly for this kind of book … The easy to follow story, the wonderful illustrations, and the feeling of fun that's baked into every page means that it's a book that will definitely entertain" – Amy Walker, Trans-scribe

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Book SynopsisDon''t miss Selznick''s other novels in words and pictures, The Invention of Hugo Cabret and The Marvels, which together with Wonderstruck, form an extraordinary thematic trilogy!In this groundbreaking tour de force, Caldecott Medalist and bookmaking pioneer Brian Selznick sails into uncharted territory and takes readers on an awe-inspiring journey. Ben and Rose secretly wish their lives were different. Ben longs for the father he has never known. Rose dreams of a mysterious actress whose life she chronicles in a scrapbook. When Ben discovers a puzzling clue in his mother''s room and Rose reads an enticing headline in the newspaper, both children set out alone on desperate quests to find what they are missing.Set fifty years apart, these two independent stories--Ben''s told in words, Rose''s in pictures--weave back and forth with mesmerizing symmetry. How they unfold and ultimately intertwine will surprise you, challenge you, and leave you breathless with wonder. Rich, complex, affecting, and beautiful--with over 460 pages of original artwork--Wonderstruckis a stunning achievement from a gifted artist and visionary.

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Book Synopsis‘Deliciously silly, with hilarious catchphrases… a great cheer-up book’ The Guardian ‘HILARIOUS! Proper laughs!’ Pamela Butchart ______________________________ A laugh-out-loud young fiction series from bestselling author Joanna Nadin, perfect for fans of Horrid Henry. Head teacher Mrs Bottomley-Blunt thinks 4B is the WORST CLASS IN THE WORLD. She says school is not about footling or fiddle-faddling or FUN. It is about LEARNING and it is high time 4B tried harder to EXCEL at it. But best friends Stanley and Manjit didn’t LITERALLY mean to let flying MINIBEASTS free in the classroom. And they really didn’t LITERALLY mean to do a series of dares to become the Overlord of the Universe. These things just happened, even though they had FOOLPROOF plans to get away with it all. Highly illustrated and featuring two hilarious madcap adventures in one book, these stories are just right for children ready for their first chapter books.Trade ReviewDeliciously silly, with hilarious catchphrases, Joanna Nadin’s The Worst Class in the World, illustrated with grubby glee by Rikin Parekh, is a great cheer-up book. * Guardian Book of the Month *HILARIOUS! Proper laughs! * Pamela Butchart *

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Book SynopsisMeet the Secret Explorers - a band of brainiac kids from all around the world, here to take young readers on a series of fact-filled fictional adventures! Each with their own specialty, from outer space to dinosaurs, these young globetrotters will teach kids that learning can be fun, encouraging them to become experts in something they love. In this story, space expert Roshni and geology maestro Cheng embark on a journey to the Moon. There, they must navigate the dangerous terrain to clear up space debris before it disrupts a lunar mission! The gripping narrative is filled with scientific facts as the explorers collect important rock samples while piloting their imaginative space buggy. Let''s explore! The Secret Explorers and the Moon Mission by SJ King is the perfect gift for children who are interested in all things space, with information about astronomy, constellations, and planets, that will stretch the wildest of imaginations.

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Book SynopsisOnce upon a time there was a huge family of children; and they were terribly, terribly naughty … So begin the tales of the no-nonsense Nurse Matilda who uses magic to tame the mischievous children in her charge – and who changes their lives forever. The inspiration for the much-loved film Nanny McPhee, starring Emma Thompson and Colin Firth, the Nurse Matilda stories overflow with naughtiness, wit and timeless humour, making this collection the perfect gift for mischief-makers both young and old! The collection contains all three instalments in the Nurse Matilda series, accompanied by Edward Ardizzone’s beautiful original illustrations: Nurse Matilda Nurse Matilda Goes to Town Nurse Matilda Goes to HospitalTrade ReviewFull of such inventive naughtiness – it may be better to keep these away from your children * Emma Thompson *Just as some musicians are endowed with perfect pitch, Ardizzone had a perfect sense of tone * Shirley Hughes *

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Book Synopsis‘Deliciously silly, with hilarious catchphrases… a great cheer-up book’ The Guardian ‘HILARIOUS! Proper laughs!’ Pamela Butchart ______________________________ A laugh-out-loud young fiction series from bestselling author Joanna Nadin, perfect for fans of Horrid Henry. Head teacher Mrs Bottomley-Blunt thinks 4B is the WORST CLASS IN THE WORLD. She says school is not about footling or fiddle-faddling or FUN. It is about LEARNING and it is high time 4B tried harder to EXCEL at it. But best friends Stanley and Manjit didn’t LITERALLY mean to swap Killer for a War of Wizard’s playing card and set him loose in school. And they really didn’t LITERALLY mean to EXPLODE fizzy foam all over the classroom and all over Mrs Bottomley-Blunt. These things just happened, even though they had FOOLPROOF plans to get away with it all. Highly illustrated and featuring two hilarious madcap adventures in one book, these stories are just right for children ready for their first chapter books.Trade ReviewHILARIOUS! Proper laughs! * Pamela Butchart on THE WORST CLASS IN THE WORLD *Deliciously silly, with hilarious catchphrases, Joanna Nadin’s The Worst Class in the World, illustrated with grubby glee by Rikin Parekh, is a great cheer-up book * Guardian *

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Book SynopsisJoin Katy, Cassie, Zia and their new friend Luca on a series of amazing adventures as they work together to save the planetTrade Review‘A great read for 5 to 8 year olds, book 5 in the series but read perfectly well in isolation… [there is] a touch of magic and a great nod to environmental matters to spark a discussion about the difference an individuals actions can make. Very happy to recommend this to families and schools.’ -- Independent Book ReviewsPraise for the Playdate Adventures: ‘Every young girl should read this series!’ Amanda Holden ‘An empowering, magical read that I would recommend to many children.’ Herald ‘Guaranteed free of unicorns and princesses, it's fun, empowering fiction for 5-8 year olds.’ David Nicholls, author of One Day

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Book Synopsis'Immensely, cheerily silly' Guardian 'A thunderously good read, so funny and action packed. Children are going to love it!' Serena Patel, author of ANISHA, ACCIDENTAL DETECTIVE Grown an extra head and don't know why? Pocket money stolen by a green blob? Lost your peculiar pet? You need the Space Detectives! What seems like a simple case of a missing pet soon has the Space Detectives completely bamboozled! This is no ordinary pet – it’s a synthpet, where owners mix in different animals to make a totally unique one-of-a-kind pet. The missing pet has the body and legs of a cat, a duck’s bill, long rabbit-like ears and the scaly tail of a crocodile. A creature like that should be easy to spot, right? Not on Starville, the universe’s biggest space station where every inhabitant looks different – it’s like looking for a star in a galaxy. Where should our heroes Connor and Ethan even begin? Another out-of-this-world adventure awaits!Trade ReviewImmensely, cheerily silly * Guardian - PRAISE FOR SPACE DETECTIVES *

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Book SynopsisBob is the stationmaster’s dog at Puddle Train Station and a reporter for the Daily Bark, Puddle's best (and only) newspaper for dogs. It’s up to Bob to make sure the trains are on time every day. He has everything under control until the day he digs up the SCOOP of a lifetime in the park – a DINOSAUR skeleton! Suddenly Bob’s life isn’t running like clockwork, it’s running WILD, as he and the other News Hounds catch the scent of a dastardly dinosaur THIEF. Can Bob pull off a daring dinosaur rescue, or is he on the express train to DISASTER? This young fiction series by the author of Captain Pug is perfect for fans of The Secret Life of Pets and Toto the Ninja Cat.Trade ReviewA great book with lovely pictures and typography for five- to seven-year-olds who are starting to read for themselves and like dogs with multiple chins * The Times on COWBOY PUG *Gorgeous funny young fiction * Bookseller on CAPTAIN PUG *Zany … Even reluctant readers will have a blast * Irish Times on FABIO: CASE OF THE MISSING HIPPO *This neon-bright mystery involves a talent show, a hippo jazz singer, gallons of pink lemonade and, of course, Fabio * Metro on FABIO: CASE OF THE MISSING HIPPO *

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Book Synopsis‘Deliciously silly, with hilarious catchphrases… a great cheer-up book’ The Guardian ‘HILARIOUS! Proper laughs!’ Pamela Butchart _______________ A laugh-out-loud young fiction series from bestselling author Joanna Nadin, perfect for fans of Horrid Henry. Head teacher Mrs Bottomley-Blunt thinks 4B is the WORST CLASS IN THE WORLD. She says school is not about footling or fiddle-faddling or FUN. It is about LEARNING and it is high time 4B tried harder to EXCEL at it. But best friends Stanley and Manjit didn’t LITERALLY mean to get covered in newt pond water just before the Class Photo. And they really didn’t LITERALLY mean to cause TOTAL MAYHEM by trying to get fake teeth to the very best tooth fairy. These things just happened, even though they had FOOLPROOF plans to get away with it all. Highly illustrated and featuring two hilarious madcap adventures in one book, these stories are just right for children ready for their first chapter books.Trade ReviewHILARIOUS! Proper laughs! * Pamela Butchart on THE WORST CLASS IN THE WORLD *Deliciously silly, with hilarious catchphrases, Joanna Nadin’s The Worst Class in the World, illustrated with grubby glee by Rikin Parekh, is a great cheer-up book * Guardian *

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Book SynopsisBuild your child's reading confidence at home with books at the right levelCollins Big Cat is a guided reading series for ages 411 edited by Cliff Moon. Top children''s authors and illustrators have created fiction and non-fiction books that your children will love to read, banded to help you choose the right book for every child. Practical ideas for guided reading are included at the back of each book.Pearl/Band 18 books offer fluent readers a complex, substantial text with challenging themes to facilitate sustained comprehension, bridging the gap between a reading programme and longer chapter books.Text type:Curriculum links:

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Book SynopsisDeliciously silly, with hilarious catchphrases … a great cheer-up book’ Guardian ‘HILARIOUS! Proper laughs!’ Pamela Butchart ______________________________ A laugh-out-loud young fiction series from bestselling author Joanna Nadin, perfect for fans of Horrid Henry. Best friends Stanley and Manjit are part of Class 4B, which head teacher Mrs Bottomley-Blunt says is the WORST CLASS IN THE WORLD. She says school is not about footling or fiddle-faddling or FUN. It is about LEARNING and it is high time 4B tried harder to EXCEL at it. But they didn’t LITERALLY mean to let the class stick insects loose in the wilds of the playground. And they really didn't LITERALLY mean to make a massive mess trying to do modern art (which may or may not have involved a mummified cat being stolen). These things just happened, even though they had FOOLPROOF plans to get away with it all. Highly illustrated and featuring two hilarious madcap adventures in one book, these stories are just right for children ready for their first chapter books.Trade ReviewHILARIOUS! Proper laughs! * Pamela Butchart on THE WORST CLASS IN THE WORLD *Deliciously silly, with hilarious catchphrases, Joanna Nadin’s The Worst Class in the World, illustrated with grubby glee by Rikin Parekh, is a great cheer-up book * Guardian *

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Book SynopsisBook Band: White (Ideal for ages 6+) A heartwarming story about siblings, ideal for children practising reading at home or in school. Blay thinks being an older brother is so uncool. He finds his baby sister Bethany boring, annoying, and very snotty. But when Bethany is taken to hospital one night, Blay starts to worry. Maybe he does care about Bethany just a little bit… This family tale from storyteller Effua Gleed is perfect for Key Stage 1 (KS1) children who are learning to read by themselves. It features colour illustrations by Kamala Nair and a heartfelt sibling relationship that many children will relate to. _______________ Bloomsbury Young Readers are the perfect way to get children reading, with book-banded stories by brilliant authors like Julia Donaldson. The series is ideal for both home and school, with gorgeous colour illustrations, tips for parents, and fun activity ideas. Online guided reading and teaching notes, written by the Centre for Literacy in Primary Education (CLPE), are available at bloomsburyreaders.com. 'Every child needs a Bloomsbury Young Reader. Fun, stretching, just the right length, full of adventurous vocabulary and punctuation.' - Julie-Ann McCulloch, TeacherTrade ReviewA new sibling story, sweetly and simply related with Blay’s emotions evident throughout, made all the more so through Kamala Nair’s bold illustrations. -- Jill R Bennett * The Red Reading Hub *

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Book SynopsisBook Band: Purple (Ideal for ages 6+) An upbeat rhyming story about bees and sustainability, ideal for children practising reading at home or in school. Lola is a bee who loves to boogie, but the rest of the hive think her dancing is silly. One day, their meadow is mowed and the bees must go in search of new nectar. Luckily, Lola’s bop might just help them find it! This cheerful story from award-winning author John Dougherty is perfect for Key Stage 1 (KS1) children who are learning to read by themselves. It features funny colour illustrations by Pauline Gregory and is perfect for teaching children about the environment and the importance of bees in our ecosystem. _______________ Bloomsbury Young Readers are the perfect way to get children reading, with book-banded stories by brilliant authors like Julia Donaldson. The series is ideal for both home and school, with gorgeous colour illustrations, tips for parents, and fun activity ideas. Online guided reading and teaching notes, written by the Centre for Literacy in Primary Education (CLPE), are available at bloomsburyreaders.com. 'Every child needs a Bloomsbury Young Reader. Fun, stretching, just the right length, full of adventurous vocabulary and punctuation.' - Julie-Ann McCulloch, TeacherTrade ReviewLots of fun, some gentle scientific learning and splendidly expressive illustrations by Pauline Gregory. -- Jill R Bennett * The Red Reading Hub *

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Book SynopsisEver since Gafferty Sprout’s last adventure, she’s been VERY GOOD. No more finding lost Smidgen clans, no more pudding fights, definitely no more GHOSTS. She knows there’s another clan still out there – The Burrow – and maybe they know the secrets of the MAGICAL knife that saved her from the ghosts. But it’ll have to wait until she’s less … grounded. Then a strange Smidgen steals her knife and sets out for The Burrow, and there’s nothing for it. Gafferty has to follow. But the Smidgens of The Burrow aren’t the new friends Gafferty expected, and soon the Smidgens are in BIG, BIG trouble. The second book in a funny, magical adventure series for 7+ readers who love Terry Pratchett, Max and the Millions and The Borrowers.Trade ReviewIf you put your copy of Harry Potter and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory in the washing machine together, this would be the book that came out at the end. Don’t put books in the washing machine though … * Tom Fletcher on THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY GHOST *Humour pervades every page, with jokes appearing at the perfect place and with fabulous timing * Bookbag on THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY GHOST *A thoroughly satisfying and entertaining story, a mix of adventure, comedy and magic … Delicious! * Books for Keeps on THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY GHOST *

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Book SynopsisCollins Arabic Big Cat is a guided reading series for ages 3 to 11. The series is structured with reference to the learning progression of Arabic at nursery and primary schools researched especially for Collins. This carefully graded approach allows children to build up their reading knowledge of Arabic step by step.Level 5 books are for children who are ready to read stories with more challenging word patterns or non-verbal sentences with 2 or 3 words, and with total support through illustrations and extensive use of repetition. Double spacing is used between words to ensure children see where each new word in a sentence begins and ends to ensure the focus remains on reading core words.A shepherd boy decides to play a trick on the people in his village by telling them that there is a wolf nearby. But will the villagers believe him when a wolf really does turn up?This witty retelling of the traditional story was written by Saffy Jenkins.Children can recap the journey of the boy as he plays tricks using the story map on pages 1415.Text type: A traditional tale.Curriculum links: Personal, social and emotional development.

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

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Book SynopsisBook band: Turquoise (Ideal for ages 6+)A hilarious story, ideal for children practising reading at home or in school. By Joanna Nadin, author of the World Book Day book The Worst Class in the World in Danger. Manjit is going to his new friend Leon's house for tea. There's lots to be worried about What if they have a scary dog? What if Leon's dad is a dragon? But worst of all, what if they're having pancakes for tea! This relatable comedy about new friendships from prolific children's writer Joanna Nadin is perfect for Key Stage 1 (KS1) children who are learning to read by themselves. It features lively colour illustrations by Ana Gómez, and a storyline that encourages picky eaters to try new foods._______________Bloomsbury Young Readers are the perfect way to get children reading, with book-banded stories by brilliant authors like Julia Donaldson. The series is ideal for both home and school, with gorgeous colour illustrations, tips for parents, Trade ReviewAn amusing tale of friendship and facing your fears by author Joanna and illustrator Ana that will go down well with learner readers at home or in school. -- Jill Bennett * Red Reading Hub *Manjit is highly relatable because at first he doesn't have a special friend at school, something which can take time. * Nayu’s Reading Corner *

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Book SynopsisPerfect for fans of Mr Gum and Roald Dahl, this highly successful and widely praised series featuring a boy, a circus and a lot of silliness is now available in a bright new package. ‘Freewheeling frivolity’ - Financial Times ‘Once, and once only, there was a boy whose name was Fizzlebert.’ Going to school isn't very exciting, is it? Well for Fizzlebert Stump it's a whole new adventure because he lives in a circus. He is usually found training to be a strongman, or being taught history by a magician, or playing football with a sea lion, but not today. After being lost in the woods and mistaken for a very rude girl, here he is, at the back of the class confusing the teacher. Will anyone believe Fizz is telling the truth? Can he find his way back to the circus? Or will he be forced to sit up straight and pay attention forever?Trade ReviewFreewheeling frivolity * Financial Times *Stuffed with laughs * Jeremy Strong on FIZZLEBERT STUMP: THE BOY WHO RAN AWAY FROM THE CIRCUS (AND JOINED THE LIBRARY) *Children will love the Stanton/Ardagh-esque authorial tone * Telegraph on FIZZLEBERT STUMP: THE BOY WHO RAN AWAY FROM THE CIRCUS (AND JOINED THE LIBRARY) *

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Book SynopsisFollowing their adventures in Yr Horwth and Melltith yn y Mynydd, the heroes of Copa Coch venture from their home for the first time, trailing the mystery that hides in the hills and marshes of the kingdom of Bryn Hir.Trade ReviewYng nghwmni Orig y tafarnwr, mae’r criw yn teithio i deyrnas Bryn Hir, gyda'r tywydd ei hun wedi ei droi'n arf yn eu herbyn. Yno, maen nhw'n baglu dros we o gelwydd, yn ffoi rhag creaduriaid hunllefus ac – yng nghanol rhew ac eira didrugaredd – yn derbyn proffwydoliaeth sy'n mynd i drawsnewid popeth. Mae Oes yr Eira yn nofel ffantasi sy'n parhau â chyfres epig Chwedlau'r Copa Coch. Bydd hon yn sicr yn tanio'r dychymyg, ac yn apelio at ddarllenwyr ifanc – ac at unrhyw un hŷn sy'n hoff o antur ac arswyd. Enillodd Yr Horwth, sef cyfrol gyntaf y gyfres, wobr Llyfr y Flwyddyn 2020 (categori Plant a Phobl Ifanc). -- Cyhoeddwr: Atebol

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Book SynopsisBook Band: Lime (Ideal for ages 6+) A funny story about a madcap race to the finish line... with cake! Written by Teresa Heapy, author of The Marvellous Moon Map. Seven-year-old Jamila sees a notice for a Great Cake Race in her local park and, despite having never baked before, she is eager to enter. But Jasper Dedicoat – the self-proclaimed best baker in town – has also entered and will do anything to win. Who will win the race, and what will they learn along the way? This zany story is accompanied by black-and-white illustrations by Erica Salcedo, illustrator of the Kid Normal series. The Bloomsbury Readers series is packed with book-banded stories to get children reading independently in Key Stage 2 by award-winning authors like double Carnegie Medal winner Geraldine McCaughrean and Waterstones Prize winner Patrice Lawrence. With engaging illustrations and online guided reading notes written by the Centre for Literacy in Primary Education (CLPE), this series is ideal for home and school. For more information visit www.bloomsburyreaders.com. 'Any list that brings together such a quality line up of authors is going to be welcomed … Bloomsbury Readers are aimed squarely at children in Key Stage 2 and designed to support them as they start reading independently and while they continue to gain confidence and understanding.' Books for KeepsTrade ReviewAny list that brings together such a quality line up of authors is going to be welcomed … Bloomsbury Readers are aimed squarely at children in Key Stage 2 and designed to support them as they start reading independently and while they continue to gain confidence and understanding. -- Andrea Reece * Books for Keeps *

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Book SynopsisWith the Magic of Music Competition coming up, the Willingford Witches prepare to take on their rivals, the Smugson School of Sorcerers. Magic wands are banned under competition rules, but things don't go at all to plan during the Witches' performance. Could the Smugson Sorcerers have anything to do with it?

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Book SynopsisSusan is suspicious of her new little brother, Timmy. He draws strange symbols on the walls, reads the newspaper and enjoys eating broccoli. Susan is sure of it he must be an alien! With the help of her kooky neighbour Mrs Cashew, Susan works to uncover Timmy's secret. Is he really an alien? And what on Earth is he really up to?

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Book SynopsisBook Band: Dark Red (Ideal for ages 10+) A magical adventure story about moving to a new home and finding your inner strength by Kereen Getten, author of The Lighthouse Intruder (which was selected as Waterstones Children's Book of the Month). Ada and her parents have moved from the city to a small town for her mum’s new job. But when they arrive, it’s obvious to Ada that something is not quite right. On her newspaper round, she discovers the Banished, magical people who have been exiled from the town by the sinister mayor. The Banished are trapped behind an invisible shield which means they can’t enter the town or see their loved ones. But somehow, Ada can see the shield as a wall of fog and, not only that, she can enter the world of the Banished…This page-turning story is accompanied by black-and-white illustrations by Simone Douglas. The Bloomsbury Readers series is packed with book-banded stories to get children reading independently in Key Stage 2 by award-winning authors like double Carnegie Medal winner Geraldine McCaughrean and Waterstones Prize winner Patrice Lawrence. With engaging illustrations and online guided reading notes written by the Centre for Literacy in Primary Education (CLPE), this series is ideal for home and school. For more information visit www.bloomsburyreaders.com. 'Any list that brings together such a quality line up of authors is going to be welcomed … Bloomsbury Readers are aimed squarely at children in Key Stage 2 and designed to support them as they start reading independently and while they continue to gain confidence and understanding.' Books for KeepsTrade ReviewAny list that brings together such a quality line up of authors is going to be welcomed … Bloomsbury Readers are aimed squarely at children in Key Stage 2 and designed to support them as they start reading independently and while they continue to gain confidence and understanding. -- Andrea Reece * Books for Keeps *An inspirational story which encourages resilience and shows that putting yourself outside of your comfort zone can really save the day! * The School Librarian *

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Book SynopsisNick Butterworth's well known and much loved character Percy the Park Keeper stars in this beautifully told story for early readers. Percy tries to persuade a reluctant Badger to take a bath. Badger doesn't want to, so Percy takes a bath instead only to find he has some unexpected comapany when Badger falls in the water with him!Blue/Band 4 books offer longer, repeated patterns withsequential events and integrated literary andnatural language.Text type A story with a familiar setting.A storyboard on pages 14 and 15 provides children with the opportunity to retell the story in their own words.Curriculum links Geography: our local area; Citizenship: animals and us.This book has been levelled for Reading Recovery.This book has been quizzed for Accelerated Reader.

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Book SynopsisSome cars are big and powerful, while others are very small. Some can even fly or float on water! Find out about some of the world's coolest and most unusual cars in this highly photographic information book.Collins Big Cat Progress builds confidence, helping struggling pupils not only to read, but to love readingDual-banded books provide age-appropriate interest level material matched with a lower reading ability levelEvery book is levelled by reading expert Cliff Moon to ensure precise, systematic, measurable progression to help close the ability gapThe books use a range of reading strategies: phonic, graphic, syntactic and contextual to build confident, accurate, fluent readersDesigned to build speaking and listening skills, as well as reading skills, the books are highly visual and include incredible illustrations and photographsEvery book has a Key Stage 2 look-and-feel to engage older pupils and avoid stigmatisationTopics are relevant for children in years 3-6 and connected to th

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Book SynopsisCaptain Scott travelled to the Antarctic in 1901 the first man in the world ever to go there. Join one man as he follows in Scott's footsteps and understands why the Antarctic is so important to us in this evocative book by Anne Curtis.Collins Big Cat Progress builds confidence, helping struggling pupils not only to read, but to love readingDual-banded books provide age-appropriate interest level material matched with a lower reading ability levelEvery book is levelled by reading expert Cliff Moon to ensure precise, systematic, measurable progression to help close the ability gapThe books use a range of reading strategies: phonic, graphic, syntactic and contextual to build confident, accurate, fluent readersDesigned to build speaking and listening skills, as well as reading skills, the books are highly visual and include incredible illustrations and photographsEvery book has a Key Stage 2 look-and-feel to engage older pupils and avoid stigmatisationTopics are relevant for children in

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