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

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Book SynopsisRob Lloyd Jones (Author) Rob studied Egyptology at university, but never thought he'd do much with it. Since joining Usborne in 2005, he's written loads of books about Ancient Egypt, and on topics ranging from space to the story of Islam. He is also the author of several award-winning historical adventure novels, and a hopeless cook.Trade Review'Irresistible for children learning to read' - Child Education Plus; 'The Usborne Young Reading Program has a lovely selection of classic tales adapted for younger readers. Graded in seven levels, these have just enough stretch in them and yet are not too overwhelming' - The Irish Sunday Independent; 'Crack reading and make confident and enthusiastic readers with this fantastic reading programme' - Julia Eccleshare

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Book SynopsisKamsa wants to kill Krishna, to prove the prophecy of his death wrong. Will he succeed?The book entails the gripping tales of Krishna's childhood; permeated with his adventures in the forests of Vrindavan, his gaiety time on the banks of River Yamuna, his endearing love for his cows, and the resolute faith of the people of Vrindavan in him. Dive into the fascinating world of Krishna meticulously weaved through the enthralling tales and gorgeous illustrations that are sure to captivate the young readers with its magical spell.This illustrated book is a must-have for all children!

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Book SynopsisSing along to the tune of Old Macdonald had a Farm, and learn to put down your phone in this hilarious cautionary tale for a new generation of phone-users. Old Macdonald loves his phone: it helps him organise his farm. But when the animals each get one of their own, they are soon on their phones all day - "Here a tweet, there a chat, WhatsApping the farm cat" - and before they know it, no work is getting done! What can Old Macdonald do? From the award-winning partnership of Jeanne Willis and Tony Ross, the fourth in the series of picturebooks exploring online issues.Trade Review"[O]n point and funny. . . Ross's sprightly and oh-so-expressive cartoon illustrations are a perfect match with Willis' humor" * Kirkus *"A superb cautionary tale for our online times... The rhymes make it bliss to read aloud, and the illustrations are a spritely delight. Funny, clever and we can all learn from it – what more could you ask? Smiley face." * LoveReading4Kids - Book of the Month February 2021 *"Uses humour and a light-hearted tone... Tony Ross's quirky illustrations are the perfect compliment to the text, making it perfect for using with any age group" -- Sue Wilsher * ReadingZone *"a fun singalong cautionary tale that I am sure will be loved by many youngsters and their parents/carers. Illustrated in an amusing comic-style that will be sure to bring a smile to everyone who reads it." -- Jayne Truran * Just Imagine *

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Book SynopsisThrough the Forest, where leafy trees rattle and rustle with every breeze, a whole host of fairytale characters are waiting to surprise you. How many will you recognise?Sir Fulladred knows he is weak, silly, and fearful. So when he learns that he only needs to eat the heart of the tiny Yu Dragon to become strong, clever, and brave, what could possibly go wrong?Find out in this collection of two short stories full of woodland wackiness! For new & experienced independent readers aged 6+ or reading aloud to ages 4+. Chip Colquhoun & Korky Paul''s Fables & Fairy Tales: Inspiring stories from around the world, retold to inspire you.These two short tales are great for reading aloud at bedtime with listeners aged 4+, and are also excellent for new independent readers aged 6+.

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Book SynopsisWhy was the queen so desperate to be the fairest of all? When the King asks for her hand in marriage, the beautiful daughter of a cruel mirror-maker accepts, hoping her fortunes will change for the better... but will they?This is the untold tale of love, loss and dark magic behind the classic story of Snow White.

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Book SynopsisBook 1 in the series of Arthurian legends - retold at an easy-to-read level for younger readers! All Merlin knows is the village where he mixes potions for wary customers, and dreams strange dreams that sometimes come true. Then a mysterious hooded man appears, seeking a boy with no mortal father, and Merlin is taken far away, to a crumbling tower and a ruthless king. To a place where his is not the only magic. About The Legends of the King Arthur series: Epic battles, thrilling quests and forbidden love combine in the medieval story of the boy who would be king. A retelling of the Arthurian legends, adapted and illustrated to introduce children aged 7+ to classic folklore. Great to share aloud, just like the original tales. All titles have been leveled for classroom use, including GRLs.Trade ReviewWith short chapter and large black-and-white illustrations, this series makes a traditional tale accessible for a young audience by organizing events from Arthurian legend into short episodes. The narrative employs dialogue and a fast pace to further engage readers. Eight-year-old Merlin, drawn as a white boy with short brown hair, is an orphan abandoned by his human mother and demon father. Although young, he already possesses healing and prophetic powers. Unexpectedly, he is summoned by King Vortigern. As a group of knights escort Merlin on his journey, he wishes he could be loved and admired like them, rather than judged with fear and suspicion. He soon meets Magan, the King’s advisor, who is a druid with magical abilities. This king wants to build a tower, but his efforts are repeatedly ruined as the earth rumbles and the tower collapses. Magan says the sacrifice of Merlin’s blood will solve the problem. Merlin’s vision, however, tells him that two dragons living in a lake beneath the mountain are what is making the tower fall. When the king drains the lake, the dragons come out and fight each other. One dragon dies, and several people are killed in the conflict as well. Magan acknowledges Merlin’s capabilities and wants to take him to Avalon to train with the druids. At the book’s conclusion, Merlin foresees that King Vortigern will not defeat his enemies, but the ruler who comes after him will - a boy named Arthur Pendragon. This traditional chapter book may open a door for readers to invite them to tackle more complex versions of the classic legend. -- School Library JournalThis transitional chapter book may open a door for readers and invite them to tackle more complex versions of the classic legend. - About No Ordinary Boy: The Legends of King Arthur, Book 1 -- School Library Journal

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Book SynopsisWant to know how Zeus came to be top god? How many times Kronos ate one of his own kids? How Athena literally burst out of another god's head? In this book, the author gives his personal views on the feuds, fights and love affairs of the Olympians.

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Book SynopsisEight delightful tales of heart-warming fun and adventure. Stories include King Donkey Ears, The Enormous Turnip, Danny the Dragon, The Inch Prince, Androcles and the Lion, Stone Soup, The Clumsy Crocodile and The Sorcerer's Apprentice. Each story is brilliantly illustrated by artists from the Usborne Young Reading Programme.Table of Contents1 King Donkey Ears2 The Enormous Turnip3 Danny the Dragon4 The Inch Prince5 Androcles and the Lion6 Stone Soup7 The Clumsy Crocodile8 The Sorcerer's Apprentice

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Book SynopsisMysterious selkies, bad-tempered giants, devious fairies and even Loch Ness's most famous resident -- these are the mythical beasts of Scottish folklore.In the highly anticipated companion volume to the much-loved An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Folk and Fairy Tales, award-winning children’s author Theresa Breslin brings together a stunning collection of tales from across Scotland.Alternately humorous, poignant and thrilling, each story is brought to life with exquisite illustrations by Scottish fine artist Kate Leiper.A wonderful gift, this is a truly stunning book to be treasured for a lifetime and will be enjoyed by parents and grandparents as well as children.Trade Review'This is a rare delight; a harmonious braiding of pitch-perfect storytelling with illustrations of breathtaking elegance and integrity. Every home should have at least one copy.'-- Debi Gliori'Theresa Breslin brings an array of creatures to life with her assured and captivating storytelling, and she places a child at the heart of each tale.'-- Julia Donaldson'Beautifully engages the imagination thanks to both the stories and the incredible illustrations that accompany them... The tales are perfect for bedtime stories but also captivating for older readers, making this a book for the whole family to enjoy.'-- Scottish Field'Theresa Breslin’s storytelling and the artwork of Kate Leiper combine to produce An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Mythical Creatures. Theresa has selected eleven stories from settings across Scotland to tell and re-tell: a Selkie tale from Orkney, Thomas the Rhymer from the Scottish Borders, a story of dangerous women from Arbroath and an adventure of the Wee Folk in Lanarkshire amongst others. Her engaging style makes this an ideal collection to read aloud. But be sure to allow plenty of time to absorb all the beauty in Kate’s minutely detailed illustrations. The book is full of colour and atmosphere and style, a testament to the partnership of writer and illustrator.'-- Jane Sandell, The Scotsman'Lively yarn-spinning, delightful illustrations, and handsome bookmaking again make a winning combination in this follow-up to the creators' An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Folk and Fairy Tales (2012)… Leiper supplies all 11 tales with bright illustrations that generally run evocatively along the broad margins and off the edges of the pages, offering not scenes of violence but idyllic glimpses of finely modeled small animals and objects, appealingly distracted figures in historical dress, and grassy Scottish hills. A fine choice for reading aloud or alone, rich in creatures more magical than frightening.'-- Kirkus Reviews'A memorable collection of Scottish tales, highly recommended for reading aloud.'-- Booklist'‘Tis the season also for sumptuously-illustrated gift books. Among the most prizeable this year is An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Mythical Creatures by Theresa Breslin, illustrated by Kate Leiper (Floris, £14.99). Breslin, who more commonly writes for older children young adults and won the Carnegie Medal for Whisper in the Graveyard, has a gift for bringing the old stories to life, and this is enchantingly enhanced by Leiper’s images. This follow up to their An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Folk and Fairy Tales, brings us Scotland as a land populated by strange creatures. There’s Nessie, of course, and the Selkies, but the real joy is in the lesser-known fiends: the Big Grey Man, the Island Beast, the “loathseome Nuckelavee” and the Wulver, a creature with the body of a man but the feet and hands of a wolf.'--Herald Scotland'unbelievably beautiful illustrations'--Vermont Country SamplerTable of ContentsThe Monster of Loch NessGillon and the SelkieThe Story of the Giant’s CausewayThomas the Rhymer or True ThomasThe Whirlpool of the CorryvreckanThe Mermen of the Bell RockThe Archer and the Island BeastThe Big Grey Man of Ben MacduiThe WulverThe Wee Folk of Merlin CragThe Saving Grace

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Book SynopsisThe spellbinding sequel to Tom Fletcher''s bestselling magical adventure, The Christmasaurus.''She is the best-kept Christmas secret of all,'' whispered Santa Claus. ''Which is surprising, because Christmas itself would not exist without her. She is older than time itself, yet still as young as tomorrow. She is known only as the Winter Witch.'' One year has passed since William Trundle''s incredible adventure with the most extraordinary dinosaur: the Christmasaurus. Now, William is swept back to the magical North Pole, where he meets the mysterious, icy Winter Witch - whose power to control time allows Santa Claus to make the long journey all around the world every Christmas Eve. And when they learn that the fate of Christmas itself hangs in the balance, William and the Christmasaurus must work with the Winter Witch to protect it...Full of magic and music, humour and heart, and a friendship like no other, The Christmasaurus Trade ReviewWilliam Trundle and the extraordinary Christmasaurus are back * Guardian *Stonkingly good . . . a compelling adventure and a nuanced celebration of friendship and family love * Guardian *

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Book SynopsisCelebrate your year from New Year’s Day to Christmas Eve with this treasury of 52 best-loved stories from around the world! Turn the pages and get lost in a year full of stories as you journey around the world reading tale after tale to keep story time alive from one end of the year to the other. This rich resource collects together folk tales from home and legends and myths from distant lands to commemorate the changing seasons, cultural events and international festivals throughout the year. The book is divided into 12 chapters, one for each month of the year, and throughout, stories are matched to internationally celebrated dates, including St. Patrick’s Day and the International Day of Friendship, as well as seasonal events and festivals.Introduce the children in your life to rich cultural traditions from all over the globe, with stories like: King of the Forest, a Chinese story to celebrate Chinese New Year The Frog Prince, a German story to celebrate Valentine’s Day The Hare in the Moon, a Buddhist story to celebrate Vesak The Boots of Hunain, an Arabic story to celebrate Ramadan Jonah and the Whale, a Bible story to celebrate Yom Kippur How the Pine-tree Chief got his Name, an Iroquois story for Thanksgiving The Feast, an African story to celebrate Kwanza Collected and retold by award-winning author Angela McAllister, and illustrated by internally recognised artist Christopher Corr, this is a book that will be treasured by families and appeal to teachers and librarians around the world. For story lovers young and old this is the perfect anthology for the entire family. Sure to keep the boredom blues at bay at any time of the year.The World Full of… series is a collection of beautiful hardback story treasuries. Discover folktales from all around the world or be introduced to some of the world’s best-loved writers with these stunning gift books, the perfection addition to any child’s library.Also available from the series:A World Full of Animal Stories, A Stage Full of Shakespeare Stories, A World Full of Dickens Stories, A World Full of Spooky Stories, A Year Full of Celebrations and Festivals and A Bedtime Full of Stories.Trade Review'It will make an excellent teaching resource, giving teachers ideas for right through the year to celebrate cultural diversity.' * Parents in Touch *

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Book SynopsisJacob Grimm (1785-1863) and Wilhelm Grimm (1786-1859) were born in Hanau, Germany. They published the first of their many collections of fairy tales in 1812. The story that they wandered about Germany collecting their tales from the lips of peasants is a fairy tale itself. In fact, they invited educated middle class women into their home to tell them the stories they had heard from their servants. The point of their collection of folklore was to study the German language and they also did important work on the German dictionary. The stories were revised to be more appropriate for children in 1819 and were published under the title Children's and Household Tales. By the beginning of the twentieth century Children's and Household Tales was second only to the Bible in the German bestseller lists.Trade ReviewIt is hardly too much to say that these tales rank next to the Bible in importance -- W.H. AudenThe stories, and the figures themselves, have immense vitality, partly because no punches are pulled, and also because no emotion is unrepresented -- Margaret AtwoodEveryone should possess and know Grimm's Fairy Tales - one of the great books of the world -- Richard Adams * New York Times Book Review *Clearly the text of choice for any reader...Zipes' edition deserves to become the standard translation -- German QuarterlyThe Brother's Grimm were responsible for these fairytales that informed my life and made it as interesting, or as confused, or as wondrous as it is...they scared the shit out of me when I was a kid and they also gave me some of the most pleasure in life -- Terry Gilliam

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Book SynopsisThe 5th book in the No.1 New York Times bestselling series by Chris ColferIn the highly anticipated continuation of the Land of Stories series, Conner learns that the only place to fight the Masked Man''s literary army is inside his own short stories! When the twins and their friends enter worlds crafted from Conner''s imagination, finding allies no one else could have ever dreamed of, the race begins to put an end to the Masked Man''s reign of terror. Can the twins finally restore peace in the fairy tale world?Trade ReviewColfer has a real skill for crafting stories and every chapter was packed with action, emotion and adventure. He is equally skilled at creating memorable characters and has breathed new life into old favourites like Little Red Riding Hood, Goldilocks and Little Bo Peep by giving them interesting story arcs and well-rounded personalities . . . A Grimm Warning is a completely absorbing read that had me hooked from the first page. - The BookbagThe perfect mix of adventure, misery, humour and romance . . . pure genius! - The Sunday Mail (Australia)There is more in Colfer's magic kingdoms than Disney has dreamt of - USA Today

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Book SynopsisSam should be looking after his sheep, but instead he can't help but play cruel tricks on the villagers by crying wolf. Will Sam soon be caught out by his own joke?

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Book SynopsisLittle readers will love to discover the beloved fairy tale of Snow White by pressing the sound buttons and reading along with the story

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Book SynopsisThe Little Red Hen has found some grains of wheat! Who will help her grow and harvest them? A faithful retelling of the popular European tale, showing the stages from wheat to flour to freshly-baked bread. With free online audio.

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

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

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

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Book SynopsisJoin Mother Goose and her three little goslings as they enjoy over fifty classic nursery rhymes, traditional lullabies and favourite action songs, beautifully illustrated in full colour throughout by the award-winning Axel Scheffler, illustrator of The Gruffalo.The rhymes are linked together by enchanting original stories about Mother Goose and her goslings as they learn to waddle, swim and more, giving a unique and fresh twist to these traditional favourites.From Humpty Dumpty to Jack and Jill, and from Baa Baa Black Sheep to Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, there's something for everyone in this beautiful gift treasury – a must for every family bookshelf.

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Book SynopsisThe classic fairy tale - Puss in Boots - from Ladybird!A perfect introduction to the classic story Puss in Boots. Find out what happens in this tale of the poor mill owner''s son and his cat. Part of the Ladybird First Favourite Tales series - a perfect introduction to fairy tales for preschoolers - it contains amusing pictures and lots of funny rhythm and rhyme to delight young children. Ideal for reading aloud and sharing with 2-4 year olds.Ladybird''s First Favourite Tales series is hugely popular and is a great introduction to the most important fairy tales. 2011 brought a new look and great covers to the series, but the books are still just as fun to read as ever.Make sure you look out for the other tales in the series, too!Hansel and Gretel; Cinderella; The Ugly Duckling; The Elves and the Shoemaker; Goldilocks and the Three Bears; The Gingerbread Man; Little Red Riding Hood; The Three Little Pigs; The Three Billy

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Book SynopsisFrom the English children's classic by Kenneth Grahame. One day, Mole discovers the enchanting world of the river. He makes new friends: generous Water Rat, kindly Badger and Toad, whose love of fast cars soon causes mayhem. With fun activities after the story, and online audio in both British English and American English.

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Book SynopsisOn the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me, a partridge in a pear tree . . .We all know this classic Christmas song, but what if someone really did send you all of those gifts? Where would you put all the geese a-laying? Not to mention the lords a-leaping! Find out in this charming story which is perfect for all the days of Christmas.Trade ReviewSeasonal storytelling at its best . . . perfect for reading aloud at bedtime * The Sunday Times *A book stuffed of lavish spectacle, described with a wonderfully visual sense of festival. * The Tablet *A lovely book to give to any family to share and enjoy at this time of year. * Carousel *"Memorable for its subtle evocation of the mostly forgotten traditions of Christmas past - the sort of things alluded to in songs or nursery rhymes. Magical fable, historical novel and crazy extravaganza combined. Unique and authentic festive entertainment." * Inis Magazine Review *

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Book SynopsisA comic-strip re-telling of some of Britain''s best-loved Arthurian stories and legends.Aided by the magician Merlin, Arthur draws the sword from the stone to become King of Britain, and Lord of the Knights of the Round Table. Read of their valiant deeds as King Arthur, Sir Lancelot, Sir Galahad and other heroic knights rescue maidens, defend Excalibur and search for the Grail.Trade ReviewWacky, detailed panel art, featuring irreverent commentary and more than a few offhand remarks. * Publishers Weekly *Of all the innumerable versions of the legend of King Arthur and his knights, this must be the most amusing. * Vermont Sunday Magazine *Kids just beginning to quest for Arthur will enjoy sharpening their swords on it.

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Book SynopsisFiona Watt is an Editorial Director and writer at Usborne Publishing. She graduated from Exeter University with a Bachelor of Education in Art and Design. She taught for three years at a primary school in Kent, before spending two years at a British school in The Netherlands. She started working at Usborne in 1989 and has written and edited hundreds of books including baby and novelty, sticker, art and craft, cookery, science and activity books. She has written all the titles in the award-winning THAT'S NOT MY series and many in the highly successful Sticker Dolly Dressing series. She is the sixth biggest-selling UK children's author, with over 10 million of her books sold in the UK since records began.

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Book SynopsisElizabeth Laird is the multi-award-winning author of many much-loved children's books, including The Garbage King, The Prince Who Walked with Lions, The Fastest Boy in the World and Song of the Dolphin Boy. She has been shortlisted for the prestigious CILIP Carnegie Medal six times. She lives in Britain now, but still likes to travel as much as she can.Shonagh Rae was born in Dundee. She studied at St Martins School of Art and The Royal College of Art. Her work combines her interest in photography, drawing and printmaking. Shonagh has created illustrations for a wide range of clients including Levis, The New York Times and The Guardian. She lives and works in London.Peter Bailey was born in India and grew up in London. Since graduating from the Brighton School of Art, his extraordinary career has seen him illustrate books by some of Britain's best-known authors and poets, including Allan Ahlberg and Alexander McCall Smith. For twenty years he also taught illustration at the Liverpool School of Art and many of his students have gone on to great success.

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Book SynopsisBased on the traditional fairy tale The Enormous Turnip, this vibrantly illustrated story is sure to become a favourite in every home. Find out what happens when a very, very large turnip doesn''t want to be pulled out of the ground! Part of the Ladybird First Favourite Tales series - a perfect introduction to fairy tales for preschoolers - this hardback book contains lots of funny rhythm and rhyme to delight young children. Ideal for reading aloud and sharing with 2-4 year olds.

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Book SynopsisRichly illustrated throughout, with bold, bright vignettes and full-page plates, this collection of tales from the Arabian Nights is retold for younger readers. It includes Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves, Aladdin and the Magic Lamp, and the Voyages of Sinbad the Sailor, as well as a short history about the origins of the Arabian Nights.

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Book SynopsisWhen the family business collapses, Beauty and her two sisters are forced to leave the city and begin a new life in the countryside. However, when their father accepts hospitality from the elusive and magical Beast, he is forced to make a terrible promise - to send one daughter to the Beast''s castle, with no guarantee that she will be seen again. Beauty accepts the challenge, and there begins an extraordinary story of magic and love that overcomes all boundaries. This is another spellbinding and emotional tale embroidered around a fairytale from Robin McKinley, an award-winning American author.Trade ReviewBeauty and the Beast, retold by a plain but captivating heroine * The Times *A love story for teenagers that marries realism and fantasy with satisfying imagination, elegance of prose and thoughtful characterisation. McKinley's Beauty is more than skin deep * The Sunday Times *McKinley adds delightful touches of her own . . . * The Guardian *Beauty is a classic reworking of a classic, McKinley wraps it all up together alluringly * T.E.S. *From an award winning author comes this brilliant re-telling which rivals the original * The Good Book Guide *

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Book SynopsisA river of harmony which moves between many worlds, infusing rhythms in naturewhich sings to all who listens to its wisdom silently, eternal yet permeating ourtemporal world, neither created nor destroyed, a prayer uniting all, its Purnam.Purnam - Stories & Wisdom of the Feminine Divine, is a tribute to the ancient philosophies of the Goddess, to Earth's ways which are encapsulated in her numerous narratives. As the Goddess vanquishes the dissonance, we are taken through a journey of the awakening of self, a portal through which the Devi guides the way for both the Asuras and the Gods, to re-establish balance in the elemental world.This illustrated book brings a fascinating collection of stories is a must-have for all!

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Book SynopsisWith her magic paintbrush, Shen can paint steaming pots full of fish and oysters to feed the hungry people in her village, but when the evil emperor hears of her gift he commands Shen to paint gold for him instead. She is determined to keep her promise to paint only for the poor, but how can she match the emperor's mighty power?In The Magic Paintbrush, Julia Donaldson's brilliant verse combines with beautiful illustrations from Joel Stewart, creator of The Adventures Abney and Teal, to bring vibrant life to a traditional tale of how a little girl's integrity can withstand the corruption of power and greed.This edition features a stunning redesigned cover, making it a must-have addition to the bookshelves of all Donaldson fans – big and small!Trade ReviewBeautifully illustrated . . . and wonderful to read aloud * The Daily Telegraph *

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Book SynopsisUsborne (Author) Usborne is one of the world's leading specialist children's publishers: an independent, family business which creates irresistible, engaging, and accessible books for children of all ages. Usborne books are written to appeal directly to children and are there for every age, stage, and curious question. From the internationally bestselling touchy-feely series That's not my... to award-winning non-fiction and activity books, children can grow - and grow up - with Usborne books.

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Book SynopsisDark dragons, ghostly pipers, rude goblins and sly wizards -- discover the legends that dwell within the ancient castles of Scotland. This highly anticipated book is the latest volume of much-loved Scottish tale treasuries by Carnegie-award-winning children's author Theresa Breslin and Kate Greenaway Medal-longlisted artist Kate Leiper. Explore secret passages beneath Edinburgh Castle, search for the mysterious monster of Glamis, capture the faery flag of Dunvegan, joust with knights at Stirling Castle and swim with the selkie of Eilean Donan in this sumptuous collection of tales from iconic Scottish castles. Read much-cherished and little-known legends, each illuminating the character and history of its castle, all brilliantly retold and beautifully illustrated to amuse, thrill and enchant. A wonderful gift, this is a stunning book to be treasured for a lifetime, bringing history, place and story alive for children, parents and grandparents alike.Trade Review'The castles of Scotland are storied places – literally -- as we learn from Theresa Breslin's engaging narrative in An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Castle Legends, with dramatic pictures by Kate Leiper. A map at the beginning, inset with monochrome paintings, gives us a glimpse of the real places that have given rise to fantastic yarns about goblins, dragons and the seal-creatures known as selkies, but also to human-scale tales involving faithful dogs, cow thieves and identical twins of unusual sagacity.'-- The Wall Street Journal'The book's elegant design enhances the reading experience, while the artwork creates strong, enduring images of the people and creatures in the stories. Created primarily with chalk pastels and enhanced with ink and acrylic paint, the illustrations create scenes with unusual clarity, beauty, and mystery... In a time when few new books of legends are published for children, it's a pleasure to find such a beautiful collection of riveting stories.'-- Booklist'A map of Scotland with images of the castles appears at the beginning of the book, followed by 11 tales, fluidly told and stunningly illustrated in a large format. The artwork is done in acrylic and ink with pastel on paper and adds detail and visual interest to propel readers forward. This handsome volume will be an appealing addition to libraries as both source material for programs and for individuals to read and share.'-- School Library Journal'An exciting collection of deliciously spooky legends associated with no fewer than thirteen ancient Scottish castles... [It] unfolds with luscious authentic illustrations and is told in delightful traditional style... A beautiful children's classic that will cause readers to dream hopefully of visiting all the mystical castles and sites in Scotland associated with these magical tales.'-- Midwest Book Review'Each tale is beautifully illustrated with drawings on every page done in chalk pastel on paper with occasional use of ink and acrylic paint... The tales are absolutely fascinating including dragons, Monsters (Loch Ness), Selkies, Goblins, Faeries and more. A brief history of each castle is provided before the tale providing an enriching background...'-- Youth Services Book Review'The illustrations are mesmerising... Simply stunning.'-- Catherine Rayner'A glorious collection of traditional stories. The perfect gift.'-- Vivian French'I loved Fantastic Beasts, and I'm really glad I got to read this book -- it has loads of beasts from Scotland in it, and it's amazing how many stories I didn't even know before. I'm going to ask my parents to visit all the places in the book, and I'm going to ask for the other two books like this for my birthday. The pictures are amazing, and the stories are great for reading at night. My friends like it, too!'-- Jack, age 9, for Families Glasgow'Everything you'd expect it to be. What you'd want it to be. From the wonderful cover by Kate, to every last little story by Theresa, set in different castles all over Scotland, and taking place at varying times in history... This is a great book.'-- BookwitchTable of ContentsThe Ghostly Piper of Edinburgh CastleThe Mysterious Monster in the Castle of GlamisThe Redcap Goblin of Caerlaverock CastleThe Faery Flag of Dunvegan CastleThe Wizard of Stirling CastleDoe Not Vaken Sleiping Dogs (Craigievar Castle)The King’s Three Questions (Moot Hill and Scone)The True Story of the Loch Ness Monster... (Castle Urquhart)Meg with the Muckle Mouth (Elibank Castle and Abbotsford)The Selkie Girl and the Otter King (Eilean Donan Castle)Tale End (Bothwell Castle)Glossary

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Book SynopsisFrom the award-winning Bethan Woollvin, creator of the iconic Little Red and Rapunzel comes Hansel and Gretel, a very funny twist on the classic fairy tale printed in vibrant pantone inks. 'A witty picture book for clever, fearless children' – The Sunday TimesNaughty little Hansel and Gretel ransack Willow the good witch's gingerbread cottage and play havoc with her spells, driving the poor witch to her wit's end with magical mischief and mayhem. They gobble all her yummy food, smash her potion bottles and even conjure the cat to the size of a house! Can Willow ever put a stop to the chaos?Bethan Woollvin has been shortlisted for both the Klaus Flugge Prize 2017 and the Little Rebels Award 2017, as well as winning an AOI Award 2017. Little Red, winner of the Macmillan Prize 2014, was named one of the ten New York Times Best Illustrated Books in 2016.Trade ReviewThis is a witty, sophisticated, revisionist picture book for clever, fearless children -- Nicolette Jones * The Sunday Times *A talent to watch * Daily Mail *One of my favourite new illustrators turns her keen eye to Hansel and Gretel in her latest stylish, deliciously disruptive fairytale revamp * The Bookseller *a deadpan, terse narrative voice [complements] her sharp illustrative style * Guardian - Top 50 New Writers *

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Book SynopsisIn this thrilling re-telling of the Anglo-Saxon legend, Beowulf, the renowned children''s historical fiction writer Rosemary Sutcliff recounts Beowulf''s most terrifying quests: against Grendel the man-wolf, against the hideous sea-hag and, most courageous of all - his fight to the death with the monstrous fire-drake.

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Book SynopsisClaudia Martin is a highly respected author of non-fiction for children and young adults, with an exceptional talent for making complex ideas accessible. She specializes in the subjects of geography, science, and the natural world. Her books have been translated into 14 languages and have sold over a quarter of a million copies. She lives in London. Samantha Newman is a children's fiction author with a talent for humor and a flair for the fantastic. She has adapted folk tales from around the world; brought Shakespeare to a modern audience; and remixed fairy tales.Khoa Le is an award-winning author and illustrator of numerous picture books based in Vietnam. She has worked with many top publishers, including Hachette and Usbourne and in 2020 she won best illustrator for the Northern Lights Book Awards. Khoa also works as a graphic designer and painter and has participated in several group and solo exhibitions in different Asian countries.

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