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

Book SynopsisEleven-year-old Nhia “Silver” Lee’s brother convinces her to join the talent show and showcase her storytelling know-how. There''s just one problem: she’s got a serious case of stage fright! Can Nhia overcome her fears and take home the top talent trophy? Or will her anxieties upstage her act? Written by Sheelue Yang, this graphic novel is a darkly humorous, normalizing exploration of coming-of-age anxiety through the lens of an authentic pre-teen girl.

Read more less

Book SynopsisEleven-year-old Nhia “Silver” Lee is heading on a summer holiday camping trip. Unfortunately, she’s packing her nerves along for the trip. Can she build a fire? Will she be able to fall asleep in a tent? And what if the other campers don’t like her? Nhia will need to overcome her own self-doubt if she is to make the camping experience less of a total downer. Written by Sheelue Yang, this graphic novel is a darkly humorous, normalizing exploration of coming-of-age anxiety through the lens of an authentic pre-teen girl.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe feisty heroines of these six folk tales all share one important quality: they are extremely SMART!The smart heroines of these folk tales come from different countries around the world. Natasha from Russia is full of comical fantasies but can still outwit the devil; Yamuna from India has eyes like the sun a mind to match; English Marian ... well, she wants to be an outlaw like Robin Hood!

Read more less

Book SynopsisSet off on an outdoor adventure with this collection of 25 classic tales by the world's best-loved storyteller. The perfect holiday read for children aged 5 and up!

Read more less

Book SynopsisTwo girl treasure hunters. One sleeping prince. A hundred-year-old curse and one very angry witch. Fantasy with m/f and f/f romance for fans of CINDERELLA IS DEAD. A pacey, fractured twist on a classic fairy tale!Filore, a treasure hunter with a knack for riddles, is busy running from her own deadly curse, when she pricks her finger on a spindle. Bound to the sleeping prince Briar Rose with the spindle''s magic - and chosen as the only person who can wake him - Fi is stuck with the prince''s ghost until she can break his ancient curse and save his kingdom.She''s going to need a partner. A warrior huntswoman with an axe to grind (literally), Shane couldn''t care less about curses and ancient texts. But instead of riches, the two girls find trouble.Dark magic, witch hunters, nightmarish beasts - and of course, curses - all stand in their way as Fi and Shane undertake the dangerous journey into a forgotten kingdom where the sleeping prince''Trade ReviewEffortlessly melds romance, adventure, and fantasy. Highly recommended * School Library Journal *

Read more less

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)

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn this retelling of a fairy tale, a young girl must try and spin straw into gold for a king. But she has no idea how! Then a strange little man appears ...This 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)Reading Champion offers independent reading books for children to practise and reinforce their developing reading skills.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 or those reading book band purple 8.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn this Scandinavian traditional tale, a poor boy seeks his fortune with the help of a pet cat.This 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)Reading Champion offers independent reading books for children to practise and reinforce their developing reading skills.Fantastic 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.

Read more less

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)Reading Champion offers independent reading books for children to practise and reinforce their developing reading skills.Fantastic 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. This retelling of the original fairytale is suitable for children aged 5-7, or those reading at book band Orange.

Read more less

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)Reading Champion offers independent reading books for children to practise and reinforce their developing reading skills.Fantastic 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. This retelling of the original fairytale is suitable for children aged 5-7, or those reading at book band Orange.

Read more less

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)Reading Champion offers independent reading books for children to practise and reinforce their developing reading skills.Fantastic 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. This retelling of the original fairytale is suitable for children aged 5-7, or those reading at book band Orange.

Read more less

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.In this twist on the original fairy tale The Pied Piper of Hamelin, a boy called Felix tells his side of the story.

Read more less

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.In this twist on the original fairy tale The Snow Queen, Gerda tells her story of rescuing Kay.

Read more less

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.In this twist on the original fairy tale Thumbelina, the mole tells his side of the story of when he met the tiny girl called Thumbelina.

Read more less

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

Read more less

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

Read more less

Book Synopsis"A summer holiday in a book... unforgettably exciting." Piers Torday"Lauren St John at her very best... a gripping adventure across stormy seas, stately homes and boarding schools, with a fabulous plotted mystery at its core. I couldn't put it down." Abi ElphinstoneA storm is coming. What will it take to survive? An exciting adventure set at sea, from the bestselling author of the Laura Marlin Mysteries and Kat Wolfe Investigates.Twins Jess and Jude Carter live a dream life sailing from one exotic destination to the next with their guardian, Gabriel. But after Gabe vanishes and a storm smashes up their lives, they’re left penniless and alone. When a wealthy, glamorous family offer them a home, everybody tells them they’re the luckiest children in the world. But the Blakeneys’ stately mansion is full of secrets – secrets that seem entangled with the twins’ own fate. As they race to uncover the truth, Jess and Jude must confront their deepest fears.How do you solve a mystery when that mystery is you?Wave Riders from Lauren St John is an exciting and compelling middle-grade tale of sailing, family and identity.Trade Reviewlashings of plot, jeopardy and characters to love... the story has everything: suspense, sibling love, an eco-angle, a contested will and an admirable moral: nature and friendship trumps stuff -- Alex O'Connell * Times, Children's Book of the Week *Lauren St John at her very best... a gripping adventure across stormy seas, stately homes and boarding schools, with a fabulous plotted mystery at its core. I couldn't put it down -- Abi ElphinstoneLoved this absolute page turner. A classic adventure story with a strong environmental message and all the right animals -- Hilary McKayNo one else writes adventure and mystery wrapped up in the wild world quite like Lauren St John. [I was] totally swept away by this thrilling eco adventure - clip your safety harness on and prepare for the ride... -- Gill Lewisa summer holiday in a book... unforgettably exciting -- Piers TordayLauren St John is the queen of adventure novels for 9-12 year olds -- Alex O'Connell * Times *deliciously engrossing -- Charlotte Heathcote * Express *by the always excellent Lauren St John -- Fiona Noble * Bookseller *grips you from the first page to the last... a brilliant and incredibly satisfying adventure. -- Jane Etheridge, FCBGa brilliant mystery about twins who are sailing around the world when their guardian disappears. This story is gripping and original and I had no idea which way it was going to turn. -- Charlotte EyreAnyone who likes a story to challenge them and who enjoys trying to piece together elusive clues to solve a puzzle will love Jess and Jude’s adventure. Packed with half-truths, deception, red herrings, villainous baddies and a sense of ever-present threat, this is a mystery to really keep readers guessing. * BookTrust *

Read more less

Book Synopsis_______________ 'A magical modern retelling of an old fairytale ... Exquisite' - Jacqueline Wilson 'These twelve fierce heroines will be a pleasure to return to again and again' - Madeline Miller 'A complete revelation' - Thandie Newton 'Wild, wise, generous, ferocious' - Katherine Rundell _______________ A dazzling, feminist fairytale from the bestselling author of The Miniaturist and The House of Fortune. For her twelve daughters, Queen Laurelia’s death in a motor car accident is a disaster beyond losing a mother. Their father, King Alberto, cannot bear the idea of the princesses ever being in danger and decides his daughters must be kept safe at all costs. Those costs include their lessons, their possessions and, most importantly, their freedom. But the eldest, Princess Frida, will not bend to his will without a fight and she still has one possession her father can’t take: the power of her imagination. And so, with little but wits and ingenuity to rely on, Frida and her sisters begin their fight to be allowed to live. _______________ An essential gift, this inspirational story about family, sisterhood, imagination and bravery is a modern classic to be handed down from mother to daughter for generations.Trade ReviewA magical modern retelling of an old fairytale – the exquisite text and illustrations work in perfect harmony * Jacqueline Wilson *It’s critical what we read our kids ... Jessie Burton has very cleverly has taken a fairytale that was already standing and loved, but has reframed it. It’s asking you to think of yourself and value yourself in terms other than the way you look, and just that – that one tiny aspect of the book – alone, was, to me, just a complete revelation * Thandie Newton *The Restless Girls is wild, wise, generous, ferocious kind of story. It’s a tale to read to your children (of both genders) over and over, and for them to read to theirs. It’s a book that glows * Katherine Rundell, author of The Explorer *A beautifully realised, whirling adventure full of the dark glitter of growing up, The Restless Girls is a fierce fairytale for the rebel girl – and boy – generation * Kiran Millwood Hargrave, author of The Girl of Ink & Stars *A story of love, loss, grief, and a desperate yearning for freedom, told with breathtaking compassion and wisdom * Louise O’Neill, author of The Surface Breaks *[Burton] fleshes out this traditional fairytale with personality ... Angela Barrett’s illustrations, meanwhile, add an exotic visual richness to Burton’s painterly descriptions of the princesses’ enchanted underworld * Irish Times *A riveting feminist retelling, filled with excitement, imagination, magic, and just the right touch of darkness. These twelve fierce heroines will be a pleasure to return to again and again * Madeline Miller *This re-telling was refreshing and empowering and utterly impossible to put down … An exciting and magical tale of joy, love and the courage of twelve girls to be wholly themselves * Dr. Alaa Murabit *A feminist fairytale about finding one's inner lioness and about picking a battle very much worth fighting …This brilliant reimagining of Grimms’ tale The Twelve Dancing Princesses completely subverts the fairytale genre. Gone are insipid, demure ‘weaker sex’ princessy-princesses and enter feisty and passionate girls who trail-blaze their way into a better life ... This would be perfect for children in upper key stage 2 and would work well alongside our sequences for The Sleeper and The Spindle, The Lost Happy Endings and The Princess’ Blankets * The Literary Curriculum *I have spent years reading princess books to my daughter but changing the words as I go along so they make the female characters stronger and representative and basically not victims. This book did it for me so I can just relax and read the book without worrying about what negative images I am putting into my daughter's brain whilst she can enjoy a book about princesses. This was refreshing and wonderful and a joy to read! * The Green Parent *

Read more less

Book SynopsisMeet Doctor Dolittle, he talks to animals and has a pushmi-pullyu as a pet!Push, pull and turn mechanisms bring Doctor Dolittle and his menagerie of animals to life as he goes on an adventure to Africa in First Stories: Doctor Dolittle!This is the perfect introduction for young children to this popular tale, with the well-loved story beautifully imagined for a new generation by illustrator Jean Claude.Little ones can collect more books in the First Stories series, including Jack and the Beanstalk, Pinocchio, and Puss in Boots.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA beautiful hardback treasury, containing over forty myths and legends from around the world. The perfect gift for mythology lovers of all ages. This glorious collection contains incredible stories from Greek and Norse mythology, such as Theseus and the Minotaur and Ragnarök, and famous British legends including The Sword in the Stone, alongside lesser known stories.Bringing together amazing stories from across the world, there are tales of spirits from Spain, fish Gods from China, an Australian Aboriginal frog that drank up all of the water in the world, and many more. Fully illustrated throughout, with beautiful colour and line-work images from iconic Golden Age illustrators, including Arthur Rackham, Walter Crane and Warwick Goble. A sumptuous 352 page gift hardback, complete with a foiled cut-through cover, foiled edges and a ribbon marker, The Macmillan Collection of Myths and Legends is a book to share and treasure.

Read more less

Book SynopsisChesley Award Winner A lavishly illustrated, enchanting collection of 10 of the best-loved fairy tales, chosen and edited by the artist, who spent more than four years creating the seventy-five oil paintings, reproduced here in full color. Belongs on every child's bookshelf.

Read more less

Book SynopsisTHE MAGICAL STARFRUIT TREE tells the story of a greedy peddler, Ah-Di, a kind-hearted young boy, Ming-Ming, and an old beggar on a hot day. In spite of the heat and the old man''s apparent thirst, the miserly peddler refuses to give him a juicy starfruit. Although he has little, Ming-Ming offers to buy a piece of fruit for the old man. The beggar gratefully accepts and eats the fruit, saving only one seed. Calling for someone to bring him a pot of hot water, he plants the seed. The old man uses his magic to make the seed grow, blossom, and bear fruit, all before the eyes of the bewildered crowd. In the end there is enough fruit for everyone, the peddler is chastised for his greedy ways and Ming-Ming is rewarded for his generosity.Retold and illustrated by a Chinese author and Chinese artist, THE MAGICAL STARFRUIT TREE is a traditional story that teaches values to children through example. It also touches on one of the main tenets of the Chinese culture, which is to honour your elders and treat them with respect.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisMeet Marissa, a caring, curious, and brave eleven-year-old girl whose summer stroll on a quiet beach becomes an epic adventure that pulls her into a mysterious undersea world. Lured by the simple sounds of a unique seashell, Marissa finds herself pulled into a battle between an ancient marine species and advanced life forms not of this planet. Her survival and only path home is that of legends as she befriends magical creatures and battles an evil nymph while in quest of a simple flower. The petals of the Neptius flower hold the answers and are the salvation for Marissa and an entire undersea universe.

Read more less

Book SynopsisJoin Bapsy, a small bread loaf whose curiosity leads her to question how she came to be. With the help of Mamaloaf's enchanting story of how she grew from small grain to wonderful bread, Bapsy learns the importance of transitioning and the challenges that can come with it. This beautiful story, accompanied by vivid illustrations, prompts parents and caregivers to begin a conversation with children about the way major changes can help a child adapt and thrive in any situation.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe world of the Norse people was rich in poetry, legend and song. Whenever there was a feast to greet guests, to celebrate weddings or the safe return of voyagers, the bards were called upon to tell stories and sing songs. Norse Myths and Viking Legends brings together three epic sagas -- 'The Saga of King Ragnar Goatskin', 'The Dream of King Alfdan' and 'Thorkill of Iceland' -- alongside other dramatic tales in this exciting collection of stories.These thrilling tales of war and love, power and cunning, magic and destiny are artfully retold by renowned storyteller Isabel Wyatt. The book will be particularly useful for those teaching Norse mythology in Steiner-Waldorf Class 4 (age 9–10). Previously published as three books: Thorkill of Iceland, Legends of the Norse Kings and Norse Hero Tales, and now in a single magnificent volume.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA beautiful gift edition of four classic stories from Elsa Beskow's cherished Peter and Lotta series, also starring Aunt Green, Aunt Brown, Aunt Lavender and Uncle Blue. The picture books of Swedish author-illustrator Elsa Beskow (1874-1953) have been beloved by adults and children alike for more than 100 years. Her nostalgic picture books are full of gentle humour and charm. The Elsa Beskow Peter and Lotta Collection combines four picture books – Aunt Green, Aunt Brown and Aunt Lavender; Aunt Brown's Birthday; Peter and Lotta's Adventure; and Uncle Blue's New Boat in a collectable edition. Through the delightful tales, readers will meet orphans Peter and Lotta and their new family Aunts Green, Brown and Lavender and Uncle Blue, enjoy their adventures and discover an idyllic Sweden of long ago.Full of whimsy and nostalgia, Beskow's classic stories are brought together for the first time in a gift edition. Adult collectors will love the faithfully reproduced vintage artwork, unique hand-crafted design, premium-quality paper, gold foil signature and a luxurious cloth spine.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Billy Goats want to eat delicious-looking grass in another field but first they must cross the bridge where a grumpy troll lives! With simple text in large type, to encourage the reading confidence of young readers, each story is packed with bright, colourful illustrations to bring the story to life. Perfect for sharing together at story time, or for youngsters to embark on their own, independent, reading adventures.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA gentle story based on the popular nursery rhyme about three little kittens who lost their mittens. With simple text in large type, to encourage the reading confidence of young readers, each story is packed with bright, colourful illustrations to bring the story to life. Perfect for sharing together at story time, or for youngsters to embark on their own, independent, reading adventures.

Read more less

Book SynopsisMoral and cautionary tales of an eagle who repays a good deed, and of a mouse who learns that the grass is not always greener on the other side. Specially written and packed with colourful illustrations to engage the reader, this book has been specifically designed with large text in a simple font, to build reading confidence and ability.

Read more less

Book SynopsisAction-packed from start to finish, this dramatic new chapter book version of India's great epic, The Ramayana, will have boys and girls alike on the edge of their seats. Full-color illustrations throughout vividly bring the story of Diwali to life, while courageous heroes and dastardly villains make Prince of Fire the perfect choice for any child with a love of adventure.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe word shalom' means three different things: hello', goodbye' and peace'. In this sweet, simple tale, Sheep experiments with this triple meaning as she goes about her day on the farm. The sun is rising, and we follow Sheep as she stops to say shalom' ('hello') to each of her friends: Shalom, Cat', Shalom, Cow,' Shalom, Horse', Shalom, Duck'. Shalom, Sheep', they all reply! When the day comes to a close, Sheep realises she can use this same word to say goodbye to all of her friends, as well: Shalom, Cat', Shalom, Cow,' Shalom, Horse', Shalom, Duck'. Shalom, Sheep', they reply once more! As she tucks herself into bed that night, Sheep remembers that shalom' has one more meaning: peace'. And with that, surrounded by the moon and the stars, she falls into a peaceful night's sleep. Sheep Says Shalom is a heartwarming story for young readers, introducing them to Hebrew, teaching them about the joys of learning a language and giving them insights into the Jewish faith and culture. Children will be captivated by this foldout board book with colourful illustrations of animals and nature.

Read more less

Book SynopsisBen Jacobs has made a list of everything that could possibly go wrong at his bar mitzvah, but even he didn't foresee that the shul might disappear just days before the celebration. The trouble is, no one believes him, apart from Grandpa. The rest of his family just carry on as normal except now they are behaving rather oddly. And there's a strange light in the woods behind the house, and some huge glowing egg-shaped objects appear at night. Is it just Ben's over-active imagination, as Mum and Dad say, or is something more sinister taking place? Ben turns to Grandpa for help, and together the two of them hatch a plan to save the world - and Ben's bar mitzvah. This zany and fun story of family, adventure and imagination is also about gaining confidence and growing up. Ben learns courage and builds belief in himself as a member of his family and the wider community.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisAll Tom has in the world is his pet cat, but this cat can talk - and he has a stylish taste in boots. Thanks to Cat, Tom is soon meeting the king and defeating an ogre in Charles Perrault's fantastical fairy tale, specially retold for younger children. With free online audio.

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn enchanting volume of eight classic fairy tales from the Brothers Grimm, retold and illustrated by Val Biro. Includes Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, The Elves and the Shoemaker, Hansel and Gretel, The Bremen Town Musicians, the Wolf and the Seven Little Kids, and the Magic Porridge Pot.

Read more less

Book SynopsisIt's just an ordinary day at Mother Goose's Academy. There's Miss Good Fairy teaching the Three Little Pigs, Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Hansel and Gretel and Little Red Riding Hood to read and write - while Miss Bad Fairy is inciting the Ugly Sisters, the Big Bad Wolf, Troll, Wicked Stepmother, Wicked Witch and Jealous Queen to gobble them all up. The result? Chaos!Witty, fast-paced and anarchic, this is a complete story with ten short chapters ('C.A.T. Spells Dog', 'What Troll Learned', 'Snakes and Snails for Lunch') that take us through the school day. Originally published as Big Class, Little Class, this freshly illustrated reissue brings Francesca Simon and Tony Ross together again in a wonderful romp that Horrid Henry fans will revel in.Trade Review"...Francesca Simon's fairytale school story is feisty and funny, blending the familiar with original additions into an entertaining whole". -- Julia Eccleshare * The Guardian (Review), Saturday April 16th 2005 *"A hilarious tale of mischief and magic for children". -- Sam Wostear * The Sun, Friday April 15th, 2005 *Imagine all your favourite fairy-tale characters at school together... the result is a hilarious book that brings to life classic fairytale characters. ...a perfect first-reader... * MyBooksMag, Issue 12 (Summer 2005) *offbeat school story with a twist ...For young readers who like to read about familiar storybook characters venturing outside their familiar surroundings, the quick-fire dialogue, whacky happenings and slapstick humour will appeal greatly. Ross's animated eye-balling line drawings wittily capture the various lesson activities, and his page by page casting of characters is done with characteristic energy and flourish. -- Gwynneth Bailey * Books For Keeps *'A hilarious book by the author of the Horrid Henry series. The funny and mischievous humour is perfect for 5-7 year olds to read themselves' * FAMILY INTEREST MAGAZINE *'Fairy tale characters play wicked games of 'goodie' and 'baddie' creating chaos for their teachers.' -- Robert Dunbar * IRISH TIMES 10.12.05 *'one of the funniest books I have ever read... really wicked in every sense of the word.' -- Karen Hart * CHINGFORD GUARDIAN *

Read more less

Book SynopsisMedieval life meets Arthurian magic in a novel that transcends boundaries of time and age, appealing to children of 9+ and older readers alike. The final book in the trilogy from the winner of the Guardian Children's Fiction Prize and the Smarties Prize bronze award is a timeless novel.It is 1202, and thousands of knights and footsoldiers are mustering in Venice for the Fourth Crusade. Among them is young Arthur de Caldicot, whose experiences in the crusades opened his eyes to the realities of war. Looking into his seeing stone for guidance, he realises that the exploits of King Arthur and his knights, like those of the crusaders, are as grim as they are glorious.War, romance, murder, family quarrels, power and politics combine in a marvellous ending to a trilogy that has utterly captivated its readers.Trade ReviewThe trilogy is an ambitious and brilliantly realised work, which informs and astounds. -- Joanne Owen, Borders Bookshop * Bookseller Buyer's Guide Highlight, 11 June 2003 *"¿the multi-layered conclusion to a most original trilogy¿The style is distinctive; short, kaleidoscopic chapters marked by uncluttered, precise sentences. Legend and historical fact are subtly intertwined to make an exciting medieval adventure relevant to today's conflicts and beliefs." -- Lesley Agnew * The Bookseller, 25 July 2003 *"If you like a good historical saga then you've probably already read The Seeing Stone and At the Crossing-Places, the first two-thirds of Kevin Crossley-Holland's Arthur Trilogy. King of the Middle March weighs in at 432 pages and is a fairly chunky read...At times funny, at times magical and at times dark, King of the Middle March more than repays the effort" -- John Crace * Guardian Children's Books Supplement, Autumn 2003 *"Crossley-Holland is, of course, a poet, and the simplicity, musicality and laconic directness of his writing reflects this." * The Independent, 31 October 2003 *"¿a dramatic conlusion to what has been a wonderfully inventive perspective on Arthurian legend¿full of contemporary relevance." * Hampstead & Highgate Express, 31 Oct 03 *"With King of the Middle March, Kevin Crossley-Holland triumphantly concludes his trilogy about the two Arthurs¿Arthur's breathless diary entries have an immediacy and wonder" -- Jan Mark * Times Educational Supplement, 14 Nov 03 *"¿conjures up a vivid picture of medieval life combined with the magic of Arthurian legends." * Financial Times, 29 November 2003 *"King of the Middle March makes a fitting elegiac end to a remarkably grown-up sequence." * Guardian, 29 November 2003 *

Read more less

Book Synopsis"My First Reading Book": It is an illustrated first reading series for 3- to 5-year-olds. It is a delightful retelling of a classic fairytale, with bright and imaginative drawings throughout. It includes an interactive spread that encourages young children to read, write and observe. It offers appropriate vocabulary and support for those beginning to learn to read by themselves. It includes other titles such as "Cinderella", "Goldilocks and the Three Bears", "The Three Little Pigs", "The Gingerbread Man", "Red Riding Hood", "The Ugly Duckling", and "Snow White and the Seven Dwarves". Puss dons a pair of boots and goes off to make a fortune for his owner, a poor miller's son. With wit and trickery he convinces the king that the miller's son is in fact a fine Marquis, who is soon married to the beautiful Princess and living in a castle. The classic children's story is retold in this enchanting book, which is illustrated throughout with lively drawings. The simple vocabulary and familiar language means that children can follow as you read or try for themselves.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis is an enchanting retelling of a timeless fairy tale, with bright and imaginative drawings throughout. The fresh and lively storyline is designed to appeal to the young child, with appropriate vocabulary for those learning to read by themselves. It features interactive pages that encourage children to read, write and observe. It is an illustrated first reading book in a large, fun format. 'Run, run as fast as you can, you can't catch me, I'm the Gingerbread Man!' The Gingerbread Man outruns a little old lady, a cow, a horse and a farmer, but what happens when a sly fox offers to carry him across a wide river...? The classic children's story is retold in this delightful book, illustrated throughout with engaging drawings. The simple vocabulary and familiar language mean that children can follow as you read or try for themselves. Interactive questions and an odd-one-out game at the back of the book provide a valuable aid to learning.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less