Children’s / Teenage fiction and true stories: Cultural heritage

Book SynopsisThis story is part of Reading Champion, a series carefully linked to book bands to encourage independent reading skills, developed with Dr Sue Bodman and Glen Franklin of UCL Institute of Education (IOE) Fantastic, original stories are accompanied by engaging artwork and a reading activity. Each book has been carefully graded so that it can be matched to a child''s reading ability, encouraging reading for pleasure. Perfect for 5-7 year olds.

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Book SynopsisThis story is part of Reading Champion, a series carefully linked to book bands to encourage independent reading skills, developed with Dr Sue Bodman and Glen Franklin of UCL Institute of Education (IOE) Fantastic, original stories are accompanied by engaging artwork and a reading activity. Each book has been carefully graded so that it can be matched to a child''s reading ability, encouraging reading for pleasure. Perfect for 5-7 year olds.

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Book SynopsisJack (of the beanstalk fame) and his magical talking chicken, Betsy, have always been great at making new friends. But when Jack spots Anansi, the new kid in town, talking to a troll in the Deep Dark Woods, everything changes. Everyone knows that trolls mean trouble, and Jack will do anything to prove to the rest of his friends that Anansi is a troll spy. Even if that means using stolen magic! The Spell Thief is the first book in this brilliant new highly-illustrated series by Tom Percival, featuring all the fairy-tale characters you know and love having brand-new adventures!Trade ReviewLittle Legends is a re-imagining of your favourite fairy tales and characters, including Jack (of Beanstalk fame) and a new arrival to Tale Town, Anansi. This early reader is just the ticket for reluctant readers, with large text, frequent, short chapters and a fast paced story line. * Huffington Post *This book includes all the classic fairy tale characters but tackles issues that children will deal withtoday. Missing a parent and feeling unease about a new friend joining the group are handled in aninteresting, engaging way that doesn't feel like the moral at the end is being pushed. * BookTrust *Fairy tale fun and all-action adventure for the digital generation! * Lancashire Evening Post *

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Book SynopsisBeauty goes to the Beast's castle in order to save her father's life and help her family. The Beast is kind to her, but when he asks her to marry him, she can't bring herself to say yes. Then Beauty returns home and dreams that the Beast is dying. Can she save him? With fun activities and online audio in British and American English.

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Book SynopsisA popular folk tale from Norway. Benny, Bert and Boris are three brother goats. They are looking for new grass to eat. There's plenty of new grass just over the bridge but look out for the hungry troll on the way. With fun activities after the story, and online audio in both British English and American English.

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Book SynopsisMeet a girl who fights dragons, a brave warrior queen, and a daughter in search of her Samurai father This beautifully illustrated collection brings you eight fantastic fairy tales from around the world. Full of wit, charm, compassion and courage, these heroes will inspire and empower a new generation of readers.Table of Contents1 Tales from Around the World: An introduction2 About the stories3 Mulan4 Nanabolele5 Vasilisa and Prince Vladimir6 Moremi and the Egunguns7 The Legend of Tokoyo8 The Dragon Slayer9 The Sleep Watchers10 The Warrior Queen

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Book SynopsisKing Midas loves gold, so when a god offers him a gift, Midas knows just what to ask for. I want to change everything I touch into gold. That works well for flowers and trees, and palace furniture too but what happens when Midas picks up bread and fruit to eat? With fun activities and online audio in British English and American English.

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Book SynopsisWho is stealing golden apples from the King's magical orchard? Prince Ivan sets out to find the thief; a journey on which he's helped by Silver Wolf to trace first the Firebird, then the winged Horse of Power, then the princess Marya, held captive by the wicked sorcerer Kaschey. With fun activities after the story, and online audio in both British English and American English. CEFR level: A2. 800 headwords, 2405 words.

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Book SynopsisTwelve princesses long to leave the palace and go dancing. When their shoes are worn out night after night, the king is determined to solve the mystery. Finally a soldier in a cloak of invisibility follows the girls to a magical underground realm. With fun activities after the story, and online audio in both British English and American English. CEFR level: A1. 1184 words.

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Book SynopsisAndersen's story of the Ugly Duckling, rejected and bullied, lonely and miserable until he realises his magnificent true nature, has become one of our most cherished tales of growing up and finding your place in the world. With fun activities after the story, and online audio in both British English and American English. CEFR level: A1. 1168 words.

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Book SynopsisTimes are tough for Santa. He's tightened his belt, made the reindeer redundant and now it's time to get a second job.But finding work is not easy at all, even if you’re Santa – he tries being a waiter, a party entertainer, and even works in a call centre. He finally finds the perfect job to be useful to the community – the bin man! Santa discovers that waste can conceal wonderful gifts, and he is soon back on his sled delivering toys made from recycled materials. When Santa finds some lost letters from years ago in the bin, begging to meet him, he sets out to find their owner. Will he be able to find them and finally grant their wish before Christmas Day?Hilarious and heartwarming, Santa Gets a Second Job is the perfect present for Santa fans of all ages from Michele D'Ignazio and Sergio Olivotti.

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Book SynopsisA glittering story of frost and friendship, full of magic and heart, A Girl Called Owl is Amy Wilson's folklore-fantasy about the beauty of nature.It's bad enough having a mum dippy enough to name you Owl, but when you've got a dad you've never met, a best friend who needs you more than ever, and a new boy at school giving you weird looks, there's not a lot of room for much else.So when Owl starts seeing strange frost patterns on her skin, she's tempted to just burrow down under the duvet and forget all about it. Could her strange new powers be linked to her mysterious father? And what will happen when she enters the magical world of winter for the first time?Continue Owl's story with the companion book, Owl and the Lost Boy.'A story of wild winds and bitter frosts with the warmth of friendship at its heart.' - Abi Elphinstone, author of Sky Song'A sparklingly frosty read, full of feisty characters, myth and mystery' - Daily Mail'An engaging read for fans of Narnia' - Drawing on Books blogTrade ReviewThe rising star of children’s fantasy. * Telegraph *A story of wild winds and bitter frosts with the warmth of friendship at its heart. -- Abi Elphinstone, author of The DreamsnatcherA winter treat full of frosty magic -- Katherine Woodfine, bestselling author of The Mystery of the Clockwork SparrowThis debut is a sparklingly frosty read, full of feisty characters, myth and mystery * Daily Mail *[a] magical debut * The Bookseller *As well as exploring ancient legends, this book explores themes of friendship and identity, and it works very well as a coming-of-age story with characters you genuinely care about. * Books for Keeps *a perfect read for those who love wintery magic and a strong female character proving her place in the world. * BookTrust *Absolutely breathtaking -- Judith, age 11 - Lovereadingkids reader reviewerA magical and enchanting story about the mystical world of winter . . . [with] adventure, power, trust, friendship and discovery. -- Freya, age 13 - Lovereading4kids reader reviewFull of mystery with every turn of the page -- Rose, age 11 - Lovereading4kids reader reviewA chillingly good adventure about family, friendship and the delicate balance of nature. An engaging read for fans of Narnia. * Drawing on Books blog *a spectacular portrayal of nature and its many faces, interweaving legend, fairy-tale, perseverance and friendship into a story that teaches that love and strength can be found in the most unlikely people. * Typewritered Blog *[D]eftly integrates figures from folkore and ancient mythology into the wider narrative of family, friendship and identity * Primary Times *An impressive coming-of-age debut novel, A Girl Called Owl combines elements of mystery, adventure, romance, fantasy and folklore, while set in the contemporary world. * SLA *A fantastical coming-of-age tale of magic, love and mystery. * INIS reading guide *

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Book SynopsisAziza's Secret Fairy Door and the Mermaid's Treasure is the fourth title in this fun and inclusive, young magical adventure series for readers of 6-8 from Lola Morayo. Inspired by fairies and creatures from world mythology this is gorgeously illustrated in black-and-white throughout by Cory Reid.Aziza is excitedly packing her suitcase ready to go on holiday when she finds sand and seashells from the fairy door all over her room! Before long, she is stepping through the door and out onto Shimmerton’s beach, where naughty fairies, the Gigglers, are causing havoc by accidentally awakening an ancient shell-walker who has been asleep for many years under the sand. Everyone scatters as the shell-walker grows bigger and bigger. What can be done? Aziza's new mermaid friend might just know someone who could help.

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Book SynopsisWelcome to the wonderful fairytale world of Hans Christian Andersen . . . retold for today's children in Scots for the very first time. This classic collection brings together nine favourite stories, from the fun and humour of the proud Emperor with his splendid new clothes, to the gentle sadness of the Little Mermaid. With a colourful cast of witches, princesses, toys and animals, this rich and varied collection is guaranteed to delight and entertain readers young and old. Emma Chichester Clark's glorious illustrations bring the tales vividly to life, making this book a joy to share and a gift to treasure.NINE CLASSIC FAIRY TALES TELLT IN SCOTS FOR THE FIRST TIME:The Princess and the PeaTRANSLATIT BY ELAINE C. SMITHThe Ugly Deukie (The Ugly Duckling)TRANSLATIT BY SHANE STRACHANThe Tindel-Box (The Tinderbox)TRANSLATIT BY THOMAS CLARKThe Wee Match Lassie (The Littttle Match Girl)TRANSLATIT BY JAMES ROBERTSONThe High Heid Yin's New Claes (The Emperor's New Clothes)TRANSLATIT BY VAL McDERMIDThe Tin Sodger (The Tin Soldier)TRANSLATIT BY MATTHEW FITTThe Princess and the Grumpumphieman (The Swineherd)TRANSLATIT BY SUSI BRIGGSThe Nichtingale (The Nightingale)TRANSLATIT BY ASHLEY DOUGLASThe Wee Sea Quine (The Little Mermaid)TRANSLATIT BY SHEENA BLACKHALL

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Book SynopsisStep into the magical world of Child''s Play fairy tales Traditional tales are a well-established part of all cultures. Retold from the originals, these lively stories will captivate readers with their delightful illustrations and fun lift-up flaps which really add to the action. The ''flip-up'' flaps encourage prediction and discussion, and well-known stories will give young readers confidence.

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Book SynopsisAn old Polish city fizzes with fear. The townsfolk are at the mercy of a dragon who lurks in the cave below the castle... Konrad's dad always used to say, 'There is a character in a book somewhere that matches you almost entirely. It's just a matter of finding them'. Konrad never expected the 'finding' to involve stepping right into a story, and he never expected his dad not to be there with him. After his dad's death, Konrad stops speaking. Not a word at home or school as the year rolls by. But that begins to change when he meets Maya on the beach he loved to explore with Dad. She doesn't mind his silence. It gives her a chance to be heard, because at home no one seems to notice her. When the pair go on a last visit to Konrad's family bookshop before it's sold, they soon get lost in the pages of Konrad's favourite book of folk tales. Whisked back in time to quest with a dragon, they must find themselves and their voices, as well as a happy end to the story in the book and in real life. A beautifully told, compassionate story about grief and finding your voice, with a sprinkle of Polish folklore and a magical, medieval adventure from Waterstones-shortlisted Ewa Jozefkowicz.Trade ReviewA beautifully written and captivating read but it also deals sensitively with important issues such as grief, courage, friendship and finding your voice * Armadillo Magazine *A gorgeous read featuring strong friendship, books, a Polish legend and a dragon. Loved it! -- A.M. Howell, author of The Secret of the Treasure KeepersA glorious fairytale adventure full of friendship, unlikely heroes and magical Polish folklore. A book-lovers delight! -- Eve Wersocki Morris, author of The Bird Singers[Ewa Jozefkowicz's] best book yet. Deeply felt and enchanting, while delving into Polish folklore with characters to adore. Brilliant! -- Chris Soul, teacher and children's book reviewerIntriguing mixture of contemporary life and ancient myth exploring... the trauma of losing a parent and how one boy finds his way back to his friends and family * BookTrust *This beautifully written tale combines a wonderful magical adventure with a look at friendship, what it is to be brave and how to overcome sadness * The Week Junior *

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Book SynopsisRussell Punter (Author) Russell Punter was born in Bedfordshire, England. From an early age he enjoyed writing and illustrating his own stories. He trained as a graphic designer at art college in West Sussex before entering the world of publishing. He has written over one hundred books for children of all ages, ranging from original stories to adaptations of classic novels.

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Book Synopsis Travel across the world with this beautiful collection of 20 nature stories. From the Ancient Chinese countryside to the dense forests of Norway, this book takes readers on a journey across cultures and continents, exploring the different ways we care for and show respect to our planet. Poignantly retold by Isabel Otter and with breathtaking artwork from Ana Sender, each story in this collection reminds us how important the natural world is to society. Moreover, the universal scape of these tales unites us as one global community. The perfect book for little nature lovers, this is a collection to treasure. Also available: The Lost Fairytales.

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Book SynopsisThis title is from The Brothers Grimm & Hans Christian Andersen. Children and adults alike will delight in these enchanting tales, which are just as popular today as they were over a hundred years ago. These classic stories have withstood the test of time and are part of a heritage of folk and fairy tales that are shared across borders and languages. This collection contains twenty-four popular tales, retold for the contemporary reader, including wonderful favourites such as "The Princess and the Pea", "The Elves and the Shoemaker", "Rapunzel and The Ugly Duckling". Accompanying the text, Cathie Shuttleworth's beautifully intricate illustrations and gold embellishments decorate every page, making this lovely book an essential addition to any children's library. Classic children's stories from the fairytale masters Hans Christian Andersen and The Brothers Grimm, with best-loved tales retold for today's generation. This title is delightfully illustrated throughout with colourful and intricate drawings. Embellished with gold decorations on the cover and every page, this is an heirloom volume that will be treasured by children everywhere.

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Book SynopsisIn this charming storybook, the tale of Red Riding Hood and the crafty wolf is superbly retold for young readers. Children will be thrilled by the adventures of the helpful heroine as she travels through the woods to her grandmother's cottage, stalked by the hungry wolf. The sweet character of Red Riding Hood, the rustic beauty of the farm and forest, and the drama of the chase are all brilliantly captured in fresh and appealing illustrations by Jenny Williams. It is perfect for reading aloud to small children, or for more confident readers to enjoy by themselves. Red Riding Hood sets off into the woods one day to take some cakes to her sick grandmother. On the way, she stops at the dairy for butter, at the miller for bread, and at the farmyard for eggs. However, a wily wolf reaches the grandmother's house first and hides in bed waiting for the little girl to arrive. Will Red Riding Hood notice what big eyes he has, what a long nose he has, what big ears he has, and what large teeth he has...? This timeless story is retold for a new generation in this engaging book, with delightful illustrations throughout.

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Book SynopsisLiga endures unspeakable cruelties at the hands of her father, before being magically granted her own personal heaven, a safe haven from the real world. She raises her two daughters in this alternate reality, and they grow up protected from the violence that once harmed their mother. But the real world cannot be denied forever . . . Magicked men and wild bears break down the borders of Liga's refuge. Now, having known Heaven, how will these three women survive in a world where beauty and brutality lie side by side?Trade ReviewFunny, tragic, wise, tender and beautifully written. It also left me gasping with shock . . . It is with a mixture of respect and delight that I greet any book capable of blasting an entire genre out of the water with its audacity and grace. Tender Morsels is such a book -- Meg Rosoff * Guardian *A striking retelling of the Grimms' Snow White and Rose Red, told in a rich yet remote prose style, it is, like Lanagan's awardwinning collection of short stories, Red Spikes, likely to appeal to teenage girls with a taste for the original and the sinister -- Amanda Craig * The Times *A work of genius -- Dinah Hall * Sunday Telegraph *It's a rewardingly complex and emotional story told in highly imaginative prose. The worlds Lanagan creates are so rich and multi-layered it's easy to get lost in the book's 500 pages, never wanting to leave * Scotsman *Ambitious and difficult with multi-layered prose that will work its way into your very soul -- Jill Murphy * The Bookbag *

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Book SynopsisThis collection of eight French contes collected by Charles Perrault in the last decade of the seventeenth century, contains perhaps the most famous fairy stories of all time - 'Cinderella', 'The Sleeping Beauty', 'Puss in Boots', 'Blue Beard' and of couse the eponymous 'Little Red Riding Hood'. It quickly became the standard version of stories on these themes, was translated into innumerable languages and then re-entered the oral tradition of most European countries, particularly England. The Everyman edition contains the classic Heath Robinson illustrations from 1921.

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Book SynopsisFirst published in Germany in 1812, these tales were collected by the two brothers Grimm from neighbouring villages and spinning rooms, and include "Hansel and Gretel", "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" and "Rumpelstiltskin". Arthur Rackham's illustrations were first published in 1900.

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Book SynopsisMy First Reading Book. This is an enchanting retelling of a timeless fairy tale, with bright and imaginative paintings by Ken Morton. Janet Brown's fresh and lively storyline is designed to appeal to youngsters, with appropriate vocabulary for those who are learning to read by themselves. The interactive pages encourage children to read, write and observe. This illustrated first reading book in a large, fun format is perfect for show-and-tell. Times are hard for Jack and his mother, so she asks the boy to sell their old brown cow. When Jack comes home with a handful of magic beans instead of money, his mother is furious. But during the night the beans grow into a giant beanstalk...The classic story is retold in this delightful book, illustrated throughout with engaging images. The simple vocabulary and familiar language mean that children can easily follow as you read or try for themselves, and a spot-the-difference puzzle at the back of the book provides a valuable aid to learning.

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Book SynopsisThis attractive, supersize version of Charles Perrault's story has been specially adapted by Lesley Young and illustrated with lively pictures by Annabel Spenceley. The giant-sized format is ideal for group storytelling and show and tell. The story of Cinderella's escape from cruelty and poverty into the arms of a handsome prince is one of the most captivating of all fairy tales. Cinderella lives with her horrible stepmother and stepsisters, who make her do all the household chores and never let her have any fun. When a Grand Ball is held at the palace, Cinderella meets her Prince Charming, but she has to leave at midnight, when her fairy godmother's spell runs out. This delightful retelling of one of the great fairy-tale classics is perfect for reading aloud to small children, or for more confident readers to enjoy by themselves.Will the prince be able to find Cinderella and make her his bride? Read this really big adventure to find out...

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Book SynopsisLittle Red Riding Hood sets off into the woods one day to take some cakes to her sick grandmother. On the way, she stops to talk to the woodland animals, including a hedgehog, a squirrel, a rabbit...and a wily wolf. The wolf reaches the grandmother's house first, gobbles up the poor old woman, and then hides in bed waiting for Little Red Riding Hood to arrive.Will the girl notice what big eyes he has, what a long nose he has, what big ears he has, and what large teeth...? The timeless story is retold for a new generation in this supersize book. With delightful illustrations throughout, it is perfect for reading aloud to small children, or for more confident young readers to enjoy by themselves.

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Book SynopsisWhile Cinder dreams of a girl with eyes the colour of the sea, Princess Ella longs for something she cannot yet imagine. When the two girls meet, their hearts are filled with joy, but what will happen when the clock strikes midnight? With one family being a source of encouragement, the other determined to crush all attempts at happiness, the odds are firmly stacked against our heroes. Yet with the power of love and strength, hope prevails. The result is a richly purposeful and inspirational, tale where girl meets girl and love faces adversity. Will Cinder and Ella find their happily ever after? PRAISE "A gorgeous retelling of everyone's favourite fairy tale. It's a delight to see that we all deserve a happily ever after." - Jodie Lancet-Grant, author of 'Pirate Mums' and 'The Marvellous Doctors for Magical Creatures' "An uplifting, hopeful and inspiring LGBT fairy tale, celebrating feminism, strength and love." - James Mayhew, Children's Author and IllustratorTrade Review“A fairy tale with a twist about finding the perfect fit for you” - The Irish Examiner ; “A lovely and beautiful retelling of a classic that emphasis the power of love in all its ways, and how everyone deserves a happy ever after.” - Shelf Editions Bookshop ; “I wish I had had a book like this when I was a child, and I am beyond happy that my children have access to it now. They have two mummies, so the concept is not new to them… but to see it in a book? It’s priceless.” @silvia__reads via Instagram ; “If you're looking to diversify your reading with little ones as well as adding a wonderful book to your favourites, this is the one!” @literate.littles via Instagram ; If you like inspirational books that break gender, race and love stereotypes, then this the book you’ve been looking for!” @thekidsbookstagrammer via Instagram ; “Cinder & Ella is going to be an important book for many people around the world, of all ages. People who haven’t felt seen or heard before, people who have never seen themselves in a story.” The Kids Books Curator ; “…a magical, uplifting and empowering story showing hope, love and happiness overcoming adversity; with a clear message that everyone deserves their happily ever after. An empathy boosting book indeed!” @mrsbrownsbookbox via Instagram ; “It is such an important book in terms of teaching children about same-sex female relationships” @booksb4bedtime via Instagram

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Book SynopsisFairy Tales takes one to a world of wonder, magic and adventure. This series of six board books retell chosen classic fairy tales in a captivating manner. Gorgeous illustrations accompany young readers on each page giving wings to their imagination. From Goldilock's misadventure in the bear's house to Jack discovering a whole new world atop the giant beanstalk to the ugly duckling discovering itself, these spellbinding stories never go out of style. This illustrated storybook is a must-have for all children!

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

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

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Book SynopsisDiscover some of the most loved stories of all time in this collection of classic tales. Each story has enchanted children around the world for many generations, and will continue to do so for years to come.

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Book SynopsisA wonderful retelling of Shakespeare's thrilling tale of love torn apart by history. With notes on Shakespeare and the Globe theatre and Love and Death in Anthony and Cleopatra. The tales have been retold using accessible language and with the help of Tony Ross's engaging black-and-white illustrations, each play is vividly brought to life allowing these culturally enriching stories to be shared with as wide an audience as possible.Have you read all of The Shakespeare Stories books? Available in this series: A Midsummer Night's Dream, Macbeth, Romeo and Juliet, The Tempest, Hamlet, Twelfth Night, Antony and Cleopatra, Much Ado About Nothing, The Merchant of Venice, Henry V, Julius Caesar, As You Like It, Othello, The Taming of the Shrew, Richard III, and King Lear.Trade ReviewAn excellent introduction to Shakespeare for the junior reader. * The School Librarian *

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Book SynopsisTwins cause trouble in this classic Shakespeare comedy! With notes on Shakespeare and the Globe Theatre and Appearance in Twefth Night. The tales have been retold using accessible language and with the help of Tony Ross's engaging black-and-white illustrations, each play is vividly brought to life allowing these culturally enriching stories to be shared with as wide an audience as possible.Have you read all of The Shakespeare Stories books? Available in this series: A Midsummer Night's Dream, Macbeth, Romeo and Juliet, The Tempest, Hamlet, Twelfth Night, Antony and Cleopatra, Much Ado About Nothing, The Merchant of Venice, Henry V, Julius Caesar, As You Like It, Othello, The Taming of the Shrew, Richard III, and King Lear.Trade Review"An excellent introduction to Shakespeare for the junior reader." The School Librarian "Andrew Matthews admirably conveys the beauty and power of the original plays. The text is full of the rhythms of spoken language and begs to be read aloud." Junior Education "The retelling of the plays is done with great individual style." The Bookseller

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Book Synopsis*A Malaysian folk tale comes to life in this emotionally layered, chilling middle grade debut, perfect for fans of The Book of Boy and The Jumbies. I am a dark spirit, the ghost announced grandly.Trade Review“Grippingly heart-wrenching and speaks to deeper themes of family, trauma, and friendship…a fascinating, page-turning tale.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “Alkaf’s middle-grade debut is unapologetically—and beautifully—Malaysian… it sizzles with tension and safe-but-ghoulish imagery, without letting go of the heartfelt thread of love between a girl and her ghost.” — Booklist "I can’t stop thinking about THE GIRL AND THE GHOST, a desperately beautiful novel about the many ways people can be haunted and the transformative power of friendship and love. A spellbinding story, told with an enormous heart." — Anne Ursu, author of the National Book Award Longlist title, The Real Boy "Delightfully gruesome, humorous, haunted and heart wrenching, The Girl and the Ghost is an intense tale of grief, family, friendship and forgiveness.” — Robin Yardi, author of The Midnight War of Mateo Martinez “An entertaining convergence of the supernatural with the everyday… touches of contemporary Malaysian life enrich the background: ethnic and religious diversity, layers of rapid social change, and loving descriptions of food abound." — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

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Book Synopsis'Truly the most magical story ... iridescent and lyrical and heartwarming' - Hilary McKay'A glitteringly magical adventure' - Sophie AndersonLighting Falls is a fantastical story of ghosts and friendship from Amy Wilson, 'the rising star of children's fantasy'.Valerie has been living at Lightning Falls nearly all her life. She’s perfectly happy helping Meg and the rest of the family to haunt the guests who come to stay there at the crumbling Ghost House. One night, she sees a strange boy, Joe, up on the viaduct. There she discovers that beneath the river is a bridge – one that will take her to the world of Orbis, which Joe claims is her real home.A world that is under threat. Plunged into a dangerous adventure, as the link between the two worlds begins to crumble, Valerie is forced to confront the truth about herself . . .Trade ReviewTruly the most magical story... iridescent and lyrical and heartwarming. -- Hilary McKay, author of The Skylarks' WarA glitteringly magical adventure -- Sophie Anderson, author of The House with Chicken LegsFull of gorgeous magic and characters ... beautiful -- Stephanie Burgis, author of The Dragon with a Chocolate Heart This book is absolutely amazing! It's my favourite children's book so far this year! With magic, mystery, spookyness and other worlds, this book will suck you in from page one. * Mother of Dragons Blog *This is such a special book. I love Amy Wilson’s descriptive writing and love the worlds and characters she has created. The plot is fast moving and yet somehow pauses to allow the reader to marvel at the beauty of Orbis and revel in the warm hearted chaos of the ghost house. I am now off to buy every book Amy has ever written! * Edspire *

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Book SynopsisDaniela the glassmaker's daughter is grumpy and never smiles. Her father promises a beautiful glass palace to anyone who can make her laugh. People come from far and wide to try their luck in amusing Daniela. But mask makers, lion tamers and magicians cannot raise a smile from the princess. It is only when a young apprentice makes the first looking glass that Daniela learns to smile – at her own grumpy reflection! This beautiful fable set in sixteenth-century Venice features stunning illustrations from award-winning artist Jane Ray alongside a poetic text.

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Book SynopsisWhen the Selfish Giant decides to build a wall around his garden to prevent the children from playing in it, it becomes barren and stuck in perpetual winter. It takes a wonderful event and the heart of a young boy for him to realize the error of his ways. A classic tale for children, 'The Selfish Giant' is presented here with all of Oscar Wilde's other fairy stories - 'The Happy Prince', 'The Nightingale and the Rose', 'The Devoted Friend', 'The Remarkable Rocket', 'The Young King', 'The Birthday of the Infanta', 'The Fisherman and His Soul' and 'The Star-Child' - brought to life by Philip Waechter's bright and imaginative illustrations.Trade ReviewPerfectly poignant * Aldershot News & Mail *

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Book SynopsisOne day Androcles comes across an angry lion. But what's that? It has a thorn stuck in its paw and Androcles quickly makes a new friend.Trade ReviewThe book has clear colour illustrations, helping children understand the words when they are first learning to read. The words used are simple, and along with fun speech bubbles the book will inspire beginner readers. This is one of the books in the Usborne First Reading series. Other titles to look out for in local libraries include "The Inch Prince" and "Danny the Dragon", both by Russell Punter. * Whitehaven News *

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Book SynopsisWhen Amber, the littlest Viking, set out from Scandinavia to seek her fortune she must have got lost on her way! Now she''s in Pegwell Bay with no one but her pet squirrel for company. When Katie, Gary and Joshua find her stranded on the beach, they decide to look after her. Now there''s a Viking living in their garden!Having a Viking in the family isn''t always easy. But when the garden is threatened by a nasty neighbour, Amber has some unusual - and hilarious - solutions to their problems . . .Trade ReviewSimple language, snappy chapters plus injections of wit ensure that this light-hearted tale will be enjoyed by a wide age range * Carousel *A funy, easy-to-read first novel * Junior Education *

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Book SynopsisA wonderful retelling of Shakespeare's thrilling tale of love torn apart by history. With notes on Shakespeare and the Globe theatre and Love and Death in Anthony and Cleopatra. The tales have been retold using accessible language and with the help of Tony Ross's engaging black-and-white illustrations, each play is vividly brought to life allowing these culturally enriching stories to be shared with as wide an audience as possible.Have you read all of The Shakespeare Stories books? Available in this series: A Midsummer Night's Dream, Macbeth, Romeo and Juliet, The Tempest, Hamlet, Twelfth Night, Antony and Cleopatra, Much Ado About Nothing, The Merchant of Venice, Henry V, Julius Caesar, As You Like It, Othello, The Taming of the Shrew, Richard III, and King Lear.Trade Review"An excellent introduction to Shakespeare for the junior reader." The School Librarian "Andrew Matthews admirably conveys the beauty and power of the original plays. The text is full of the rhythms of spoken language and begs to be read aloud." Junior Education "The retelling of the plays is done with great individual style." The Bookseller

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