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

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisWhen Goldilocks sneaks into the three bears' cottage, no one seems to be home. But the bears soon return from their walk... Will they catch that naughty little girl?My First Fairy Tales are a magical introduction to the well-loved stories that are a key part of every childhood. With fresh and fun illustrations, these simple re-tellings of classic fairy tales make a perfect bedtime read for three to six year olds. Make sure you collect The Three Billy Goats Gruff and Jack and the Beanstalk, too!

Read more less

Book SynopsisNibbles is a very naughty book monster – he's chomping, munching and nibbling his way through fairytales that don't belong to him! Can you help catch him and put him back in his own story? Children will love to lift the flaps, peek through the peep holes, and chase Nibbles through a fantastical world of books, in this quirky story, exquisitely illustrated by Emma Yarlett (My Daddy’s Going Away and Bear’s Big Bottom). Jam-packed full of your kids' favourite fairy tales including Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk and Goldilocks and the Three Bears.Trade Review"Cheeky, funny and brilliantly original." * - S (Sunday Express Magazine) *"Gloriously fun and interactive fairytale mash-up from a rising picture book star." * - The Bookseller *"Fantastic production makes this book a really exciting reading experience." * - BookTrust *"[Nibbles] works on several levels: chubby toddler fingers will love to explore the chunky cutaways, where Nibbles has chewed; older readers will enjoy the fun of Nibbles making a guest appearance in fairytales from 'Little Red Riding Hood' to 'Goldilocks and the Three Bears'." * - The Guardian *"Younger children (from three to six) will love this highly interactive and hugely imaginative book." * - Huffington Post *"Funny and innovative, with clever cut-outs throughout." * - Metro *"The stories within the story are clever and funny and the illustrations are wonderfully detailed. It is ideal for family reading and seems set to become a favourite." * - The Scotsman *"Full of flaps to lift and holes to peek through, the format makes wonderful use of Yarlett's sense of invention and playfulness." * - The Bookseller *"A superbly crafted and ingenious picture book." * - South Wales Evening Post *"Brilliant fun." * - Angels and Urchins Magazine *"The combination of cute characters, colourful illustrations, intelligent interactivity and excellent execution means that Nibbles: The Book Monster is a strong contender for best book in this house. If all children's books were as well thought out as this one, adults would probably stop reading their own books." * - The Book Bag *"Mischievous, witty and playful, Nibbles: The Book Monster by Emma Yarlett is one of the most enjoyable picture books to read aloud I've come across in a long time." * - Playing By The Book *"If you love books, then how can you not love a book about books? Take a bite, book lovers!" * - A Bookish Life *"One of my favourite picture books of the year so far." * - Book Lover Jo *"Nibbles is sure to be a hit with the whole family." * - The BookTrust *"This is a joyous celebration of reading and naughtiness that little ones will gobble up." * - Irish Daily Mail *"A wonderful story to illustrate how readers 'devour' books." * - Reading Zone *"Newly developing readers can have great fun lifting flaps and chasing Nibbles through the books while enjoying the gorgeously expressive illustrations." * - Primary Times Magazine *"This is just the kind of bright, interactive and lively picture book that children love... full of mischief, adventure and the joyful experience of reading. Picture book bliss for busy little hands and inquisitive young minds!" * - Lancashire Evening Post *"There is so much detail on every page that re-reading is a delight full of fresh surprises each time." * - Teach Early Years Magazine *"This is a picture book not to be missed! Nibbles is a fantastic book! The lift-the-flaps element is perfect for the classroom and brings the story to life for readers and listeners." * - Madeleine Lindley Book Centre *"Emma Yarlett's best yet." * - Jill R Bennett *"The book is stunning ... It's every book lover's picture book dream." * - Winged Reviews *"Emma Yarlett is seriously genius. I am pretty sure kids and parents alike will go back to Nibbles over and over again." * - London Mums *

Read more less

Book SynopsisTom Town Mouse is off to visit his cousin, Cora, in the country. It will be great! says his friend, but Tom is not so sure. A charming retelling of the classic Aesop's Fable, with endearing illustrations by John Joven. With free online audio to listen to the story.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe classic Christmas verse in a gorgeous gift book from the highly acclaimed author and illustrator P.J. Lynch.Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouseP.J. Lynch brings his rich and atmospheric art to the well-loved Christmas verse. From the stockings hung by the chimney to the bundle of toys flung over St Nicholas's back, children will love to pore over the detailed images inside. A book to return to again and again.Trade ReviewStunningly atmospheric art also abounds in PJ Lynch’s illustration of the classic Christmas verse ’Twas the Night Before Christmas’. A book to treasure forever. * The Irish Independent *For Christmas Eve, Clement C Moore’s 1823 poem “’Twas The Night Before Christmas” is a must-read, and the great illustrator PJ Lynch has given us a version suffused with winter magic, all warmth and shivery loveliness, for ages 3 to 93. * New Statesman *beautiful reinterpretation […] Lynch, Ireland’s fourth Laureate na nÓg for children’s literature has used a dark Victorian palette lit up like a Vermeer by the glow of snow and candle flame. The pair go together like turkey and cranberry sauce. To be read on Christmas Eve with lashings of nostalgia. * The Times *a stunning new version of the Christmas classic by an award-winning Irish illustrator * The Irish Independent *a long time seasonal favourite * The Irish Catholic *

Read more less

Book SynopsisTells the story of Jack, who swaps his mother's cow for some 'magic' beans which grow into a huge beanstalk. By climbing this oversized plant, Jack reaches the home of a terrifying giant. Will Jack be able to escape with the giant's gold, or will the giant grind Jack's bones to make his bread?

Read more less

Book SynopsisA reissue of the critically acclaimed and bestselling Shhh! - that has sold over 200,000 copies.Trade ReviewThis book is FANTASTIC for storytime with a group of children. It's great to read it with inflection, pretending to be scared of the giant and telling the kids to SHHH! - Goodreads reviewerI have worked in a pre-School for 24 years and this is by far their favourite book. The children sit there quietly and as you read the book they are hooked! - Amazon reviewer

Read more less

Book SynopsisFirst Stories: The Gingerbread Man is the perfect introduction for young children to this classic nursery tale.Push, pull, slide mechanisms bring the story to life as you chase the Gingerbread Man and join in with all of the characters trying to catch him! This well-loved story is beautifully imagined for a new generation by illustrator Kasia Dudziuk.Little ones can collect more books in the First Stories series, including Puss in Boots, The Frog Prince, and Three Billy Goats Gruff.

Read more less

Book SynopsisWhich animal will win the race and get the first year of the Chinese calendar named after them? Race along with Rat, Monkey, Dragon, and their companions while discovering the origin of the Chinese Zodiac. This bright and colourful book includes intriguing notes about the Chinese calendar, the festivals, and the animal that rules each year.

Read more less

Book SynopsisMore funny, clever trickster tales from India.Prince Veera''s great-uncle, Raja Apoorva, invites the prince and his best friend, Suku, to the summer festival in Peetalpur, where they participate in some of the competitions. Can they make the peahen sing, though peahens can''t sing? Or win the painting competition, or even defeat the country''s champion wrestler? The boys face each challenge with great wit and wisdom. Back at the palace, they are faced with more challenges. Raja Apoorva enjoys puzzles and presents several to the boys: who was the intruder who dared to pull the Raja''s beard? How can the journey to the seaside be shortened? And at court it''s Prince Veera and Suku who will decide which neighbour owns the tree that produces the wonderful figs for the palace, as well as solve the mysteries of the holy man and the astronomer.Four stories packed with clever and amusing tricks and puzzles which will delight children from 6 to 8 and well beyond.Trade ReviewA Sliver of Moon and a Shard of Truth by Chitra Soundar is a lyrical collection of stories from Indian folklore. Simply and warmly told, the narrative follows Prince Veera and his friend as they find themselves thrown into mishap at a summer festival. * The Daily Telegraph *The black & white illustrations scattered through on page after page add charm and authenticity, while the stories themselves sing with drama (in the best way), surprise and wisdom. Entertaining, genuine, and utterly wonderful. This book is a little treasure. * Fallen Star Stories *

Read more less

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

Read more less

Book SynopsisBased on the well-loved classic tale. The three billy goats Gruff want to eat the grass on the other side of the bridge. There''s only one problem, a giant troll is lurking underneath! Will the billy goats Gruff find a way to make it past the grumpy old troll?The Three Billy Goats Gruff is from Early Reader Level 1 and is perfect for children aged from 4+ who are taking their first steps beyond phonics.Each book has been carefully checked by educational and subject consultants and includes comprehension puzzles, book band information, and tips for helping children with their reading.With five levels to take children from first phonics to fluent reading and a wide range of different stories and topics for every interest, Read It Yourself helps children build their confidence and begin reading for pleasure.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis bestselling picture book has had a gorgeous makeover! Everyone in Fairyland is very worried about Snow White - she has fled from the palace and the wicked queen is on her trail! Kittie can't stand by while her friend is in danger, so with the help of seven musical dwarves, a magic mirror, and a dashing doctor prince, will Kittie be able to save the day?Discover more Fairytale Hairdresser adventures: The Fairytale Hairdressser and the Little MermaidThe Fairytale Hairdresser and Beauty and the BeastThe Fairytale Hairdresser and CinderellaThe Fairytale Hairdresser and Sleeping BeautyThe Fairytale Hairdresser and the Sugar Plum FairyThe Fairytale Hairdresser and the Princess and the PeaThe Fairytale Hairdresser and AladdinThe Fairytale Hairdresser and the Princess and the FrogThe Fairytale Hairdresser and ThumbelinaThe Fairytale Hairdresser and Red Riding HoodThe Fairytale Hairdresser and Father Christmas

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe BIG Christmas Bake is a funny, lively romp through the twelve days of Christmas, taking the elements of the popular carol, and weaving them cleverly into the ingredients for a Twelfth Night Cake.Trade Review“A trio of French hens bring baking powder and six geese arrive with the eggs, in this take on ‘The Twelve Days of Christmas’ which includes a recipe to make at home.” * The Bookseller *"Lola enjoyed making cakes using the recipe in the book." * Prima Magazine *

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisFrom the West African fable of Anansi the Spider, to Michabo, the magical hare who rebuilt the world and Tanuki, the sweet but troublesome racoon-dog of Japanese folklore, Mythopedia is an encyclopedia of mythical creatures that covers legends, tales and myths from around the world.Lovingly created by the illustration duo behind popular flipbook Myth Match, Good Wives and Warriors, this book contains pages upon pages of cultural folklore from around the world.Let these weird and wonderful creatures spark your child's imagination for their own storytelling and drawing while teaching them about international cultures.

Read more less

Book SynopsisSHORTLISTED FOR THE ALLIGATOR''S MOUTH AWARD 2024An enchanting collection of seven original fairy tales to bewitch and enthral by master storyteller, Vivian French, complemented by gorgeous, full-colour, contemporary artwork by debut children''s illustrator, Amy Grimes.Bibi doesn''t believe in fairies. But when she meets her fairy godmother, the tiniest of hopes flickers in her mind. Seven quests to seven lands that will open a magic box and grant her a wish.... could it, just possibly, be true?Whisked away with her trusty companion, Sylvestro the cat, Bibi quests with giants, dragons, princes and princesses, wizards, witches, water sprites and sea elves, unicorns, trolls and gnomes...Can Bibi earn the keys to open the box.... and unlock her belief in fairy magic?

Read more less

Book SynopsisLegends of Norse Mythology is afully illustrated encyclopaedia of Norse gods, giants, monsters and heroes featuring beautiful and otherworldly illustrations from Isabella Mazzanti and enchanting text from Old English scholar and Norse mythology expert Dr Thomas Birkett.Trade Review“Illustrated anthology of Norse heroes and legends retold for a new generation.” * The Bookseller *

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe cheeky little gingerbread man is having so much fun! He scurries away from Mr and Mrs Baker and all the hungry animals, but then he meets a crafty fox . . . Will the gingerbread man meet a sticky end? My First Fairytales are a magical introduction to the well-loved stories that are a key part of every childhood. With fresh and fun illustrations, these simple re-tellings of classic fairy tales make a perfect read for young and old alike!

Read more less

Book Synopsis The third book in the hilarious bestselling WHO LET THE GODS OUT series; perfect for fans of David Solomons! 'I totally fell in love with Elliot and the gods, and I think you're all going to love them too.' ROBIN STEVENS on book 1 'One of the funniest new voices in children's literature. The laughs come thick and fast' DAVID SOLOMONS on book 1 Elliot's life is spiralling out of control. He's been suspended from school, his ex-convict dad is useless around the house and his mum's health is worsening. What's more, the gods are determined to forge on with the quest for the third chaos stone – and an unlikely, hilarious and heart-warming odyssey begins. But Elliot has heard of a mythical potion rumoured to cure all ills – can he save his mum, even if it means sacrificing the fate of the world? The third book in the bestselling Who Let the Gods Out series! An exciting, laugh-out-loud hilarious and highly-acclaimed Percy Jackson-esque adventure Book 1 was shortlisted for both the Waterstones Children's Book Prize and the Books Are My Bag Readers' Award Hilarious and heartfelt, the Who Let the Gods Out? series is centred on the Olympian gods – perfect for fans of Greek mythology! Are you ready to find out how it all ends? Check out Elliot's final adventure, AGAINST ALL GODS!

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis lavish edition, retold and beautifully illustrated by Val Biro, contains eight of Hans Christian Andersen''s best-loved stories. Includes, Thumbelina, The Ugly Duckling, The Emperor''s New Clothes, The Flying Trunk, The Wild Swans, Dan the Dunce, The Little Tin Soldier, and The Nightingale.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis Ladybird retelling of Little Red Riding Hood is a wonderful introduction to classic fairy tales for toddlers and preschool children. Enjoy reading the simple text together, looking at the bright pictures and feeling the different touch-and-feels on every page.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Elves and the Shoemaker is part of the enduringly popular Well-loved Tales fairy tales series from Ladybird. Even today, Well-loved Tales are still beloved by adults and children alike.First published in 1965, this beautiful book has been specially re-released to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Ladybird Books in 2015. Complete with stunning dust jacket, this limited edition facsimile copy of the original book by Vera Southgate has all the beautiful, memorable pictures that people remember, now available for a new generation to fall in love with.

Read more less

Book SynopsisWarning: this book contains a troll!Three brave little Viking girls save the day in this bold and funny adventure story for little rebels, by the creator of the New York Times Best Illustrated Book Little Red and I Can Catch a Monster, Bethan Woollvin.Once upon a time in a Viking village, everything seems to be going wrong. Chickens are disappearing, trees are falling down, and there's lots and lots of crashing and bashing. The silly Chieftain won't listen to the three littlest Vikings, but can they work together to solve the mystery and save the day?Three Little Vikings is all about cooperation, bravery, and getting your voice heard!Trade ReviewBethan Woollvin’s feminist takes on fairytales for very little children (Little Red, Rapunzel and Hansel & Gretel) accompanied by her distinctive, bold, colourful illustrations have rightly earned her a prize place in the picture-book market. -- Alex O'Connell - Children's Book of the Week * The Times *triumphant tale * Saturday Telegraph *brilliantly atmospheric * The Telegraph *“I’ve long been a fan of Woollvin’s bold, colour-block illustrations and deadpan humour and love this story that turns a traditional tale upside-down with a lesson in empowerment for all of us. Great for reading aloud, it’s the ideal response to an adult who always thinks they ‘know best’, so parents beware . . .” -- Sally Morris * Daily Mail *A story that will likely appeal to all the independent, bookish readers out there. * BookTrust *

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis feast of Middle Eastern folklore from an award-winning Iraqi storyteller is paired with vibrant cut-paper art.The twenty fables and folktales in this illustrated storybook have taken a long journey. Many have roots that stretch across Europe, Asia and Africa, but when award-winning writer and gatherer of tales Rodaan Al Galidi learned them in his homeland of Iraq, it was as Arabic folktales and as part of the Arabic storytelling tradition. When he migrated to the Netherlands, he shaped twenty of those tales into his debut book for children, which was translated to English by Laura Watkinson. Filled with wisdom about love and acceptance, and warnings against folly, these elegantly translated stories of donkeys and roosters, kings, sheikhs, and paupers are exquisitely illustrated by cut-paper artist Geertje Aalders. Beautifully packaged, Arabic Folktales is a rich and varied introduction to the world of Middle Eastern folklore.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe struggle between good and evil is taken up by the Vicar and the nasty witch Griselda. When the witch Griselda sends fireballs on the garden of The Old Vicarage, Snuggle (by mistake) magics not only the boys but the church and Vicar to the Land of Ramion. The Vicar becomes a child again, learns not to fear a thing, and dancing up to the witch calls her "Auntie Griselda" and (while she is in a state of shock) takes her magic staff with surprising consequences.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisOscar Wilde's fairy tales were, he said, "meant partly for children, and partly for those who have kept the childlike faculties of wonder and joy." The tales include The Happy Prince, The Remarkable Rocket, and The Fisherman and his Soul. In them, Wilde mocks the self-important and self-righteous, and celebrates the virtues of pity and charity. Finely-wrought, and studded with dazzling word-pictures, these are stories to treasure. In this new edition, which contains all of Wilde's fairy tales, his rich prose is evoked beautifully with the sumptuous, intricate work of artist Isabelle Brent. With an insightful introduction by Neil Philip, this is surely the definitive edition of Wilde's classic tales.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe final, thrilling instalment in this extraordinary series from bestselling authors Holly Black and Cassandra Clare.A generation ago, powerful mage Constantine Madden came close to achieving what no magician had ever achieved: the ability to bring back the dead. He didn''t succeed . . . but he did find a way to keep himself alive, inside a young child named Callum Hunt.Facing up to what he is, Callum has battled chaos and evil across four years of magical training at the Magisterium, eventually defeating the armies of chaos in an epic battle.It came at a cost.Now, triumphant and heartbroken, Callum Hunt has just about had enough, and is ready to complete his training. But the evil Callum faced has not given up just yet . . .

Read more less

Book SynopsisA fairytale full of adventure!Once upon a time, Peppa, George, Mummy Pig and Daddy Pig were on a magical adventure in the fairy-tale woods . . . First they met a big (but not very bad) wolf, and then they bumped into three hungry bears! What will they find when they reach Granny and Grandpa Pig''s house?Little Red Riding Hood meets Goldilocks and the Three Bears in this new magical picture book that all fairytale fans will adore. With a very glittery cover, it''s the perfect gift for sharing with little readers.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisFrom the famous Greek myth. Young Jason's wicked uncle sets him an impossible task: to bring back the legendary Golden Fleece. Jason sets out with a crew of heroes in his ship, the Argo; but it's the princess Medea who will give him the help he most needs. With fun activities and free audio readings by native UK and US English speakers.

Read more less

Book SynopsisFrom the classic story by Hans Christian Andersen. Prince Florian wants to marry a princess... a real princess. He meets lots of princesses, but are they real princesses? How can he know? With fun activities after the story, and online audio in both British English and American English.

Read more less

Book SynopsisBilly's moving house! But the Mini Monsters have got lost on the way. How will Billy ever find them again? And to add to the confusion, it turns out there's a NEW monster on the scene An exciting addition to Young Reading Series Two, for readers who are growing in confidence.Trade ReviewI can't tell you how hard it is to find books that will appeal to a reluctant reader. Thanks to Billy and his Monster pals though, my son is LOVING reading now and his confidence is soaring. Importantly, they are helping to give him the practice he needs to access reading in the future. * Rachel Morrisroe, author of The Drama Llama *

Read more less

Book SynopsisHans Christian Andersen's classic tales of foolish emperors, lonely mermaids, icy queens and clever princesses have delighted children and adults alike for nearly two centuries. The stories' unique magic and wonder make them essential reading for any childhood.This beautifully illustrated collection of Andersen's best-loved fairy tales includes The Little Mermaid, The Snow Queen, Thumbelina, The Princess and the Pea and The Emperor's New Clothes.Each story is brought to life with charming illustrations by Anastasiya Archipova, illustrator of dozens of children's books.This gift edition of Andersen's tales is designed for little hands and will make a beautiful addition to any bookshelf.Trade Review'A cooler aesthetic prevails in Anastasiya Archipova's delicate, feathery paintings for "An Illustrated Treasury of Hans Christian Andersen's Fairy Tales".'-- 'Best Nine Books to Give for the Holidays', The Wall Street Journal 'What makes this anthology stand out is the magnificent artwork of Anastasiya Archipova. This profusion of images wonderfully enhances these stories making them a delight for young readers and ideal for parents to read to younger children. Of special note is an informative two page illustrated article about Hans Christian Andersen. Simply stated, 'An Illustrated Treasury of Hans Christian Andersen's Fairy Tales' will make an enduringly popular addition to family, elementary school, and community library Folktale/Fairytale collections.'-- Children's Bookwatch, November 2014'These tales of magic and enchantment are wonderfully enhanced by lavish full colour illustrations on almost every page. Beautifully bound and presented, this delightful Christmas gift is excellent value for money.'-- Carousel'This gift edition of Andersen's tales would make a wonderful addition to any bookshelf. We say... Timeless stories presented in a beautifully illustrated book to keep forever.'-- Creative StepsTable of ContentsThumbelinaThe Princess and the PeaThe Snow QueenThe Brave Tin SoldierThe Emperor’s New SuitThe Little Match GirlThe Little MermaidThe Christmas TreeAbout Hans Christian Andersen

Read more less

Book Synopsis''Twas the night before Christmas when all through the house Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse . . . The scene is set for a magical Christmas Eve and one of the best-loved Christmas stories of all time.Clement C. Moore first read this timeless poem to his young children on Christmas Eve in 1822. It was published anonymously in a New York newspaper the following year and quickly spread around the world, becoming a cherished Christmas tradition for many families.This beautiful picture book edition brings together the classic verse with enchanting illustrations by Robert Ingpen that perfectly capture the magic of Christmas for young and old alike.

Read more less

Book SynopsisMy First Reading Book is an illustrated first reading book in a large, fun format - perfect for use in show-and-tell. Bright and imaginative drawings throughout and appropriate vocabulary mean that children can follow as you read or try for themselves. Interactive questions and writing exercises at the back of the book provide a valuable aid to learning. It is a delightful retelling of a classic fairy tale, the fresh and lively storyline is designed to appeal to the young reader. Young Cinderella lives with her cruel stepmother and her horrible stepsisters, who make her do all the chores and don't let her have any fun at all. When there is a ball at the palace, Cinderella meets Prince Charming - with help from her Fairy Godmother, a pumpkin and some friendly mice. But at midnight the magic runs out, and Cinderella dashes away. Will the prince ever be able to find her and make her his bride...? The timeless tale is retold in this enchanting book, with familiar language and simple vocabulary that children can follow easily.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisA mysterious orange egg has fallen into the woods. The elf who finds it has one of the best adventures she has ever had. Mini gift edition.Trade Review'What a lovely magical little story. The illustrations are delightful and the story is just so very sweet. This book is produced as a gift book and I think it would make a lovely present for a young girl.'-- Totz2teens.co.uk member review

Read more less

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

Read more less

Book SynopsisIllustrated by one of the most popular artists working today. Quentin Blake's A Christmas Carol is a beautiful edition of the timeless Christmas classic. A great gift for the season of giving.Trade Review"…a nice edition of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol […] It’s delightful.” – The Standard

Read more less

Book SynopsisRussell 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.

Read more less

Book SynopsisReturn to a Once Upon a Time where anything is possible . . . Rumaysa: Ever After is the enchanting sequel to Radiya Hafiza's Rumaysa: A Fairytale – a gorgeously empowering and funny story that spins the classic fairytale to show that anyone can be a hero.Mirror, mirror, on the wall, who's the fiercest one of all?Ever since she escaped her tower, Rumaysa has been searching the land, far and wide, determined to find her long lost parents. But after she receives a mysterious invitation from Saira White, Queen of Bishnara, she is soon pulled into a dark, magical adventure, that threatens her own happily ever after . . .This eagerly anticipated sequel enchantingly intertwines traditional stories of Princesses, Princes, Witches and Beasts with a fresh and empowering perspective, beautifully illustrated by Rhaida El Touny.Trade ReviewEvery bit as wonderful as Rumaysa A Fairytale. Brimming with excitement, adventure, humour, and heart, and with a Happily Ever After that brought a tear to my eye! -- Sophie Anderson, author of The House with Chicken Legsa winner . . . brimming with action, heart, thrills, spills and chills, this is a terrific tale for readers young and old * Lancashire Evening Post *Hugely entertaining . . . a wonderful adventure to add to your child's book shelves, giving a glimpse into another culture and a reminder to young readers that heroines come from all kinds of backgrounds and communities * Reading Zone *a truly amazing book * Bookbound *An unforgettable and richy woven story of magic, danger and adventure. * School Reading List *another enchanting masterpiece … a wonderful story, twisting fairytales on their heads and providing an empowering novel which emphasises the strength of love and friendship. * Mini Travellers *‘A powerful, captivating and enchanting story that fills us with hope and inspiration and touches our hearts * Inclusive Children's Books *Be dazzled, enchanted, entertained and empowered by Radiya Hafiza’s beautiful and exciting sequel . . . a terrific tale for readers young and old. * Wigan Today, Lancashire Evening Post, Blackpool Gazette *action-packed … a wonderful adventure to add to your child's book shelves, giving a glimpse into another culture and a reminder to young readers that heroines come from all kinds of backgrounds and communities * Reading Zone *Glitteringly beautiful & heart-thumpingly exciting. I laughed, gasped & cried tears of joy, this is a fairytale reimagining the world has needed for a long time. It's going to dazzle & delight readers of all ages -- Sophie Anderson, author of The House With Chicken Legs on RumaysaA laugh out loud fairy tale . . . a wonderful, immediately likeable gang of characters, hilarious dialogue and that special tale feeling - of both specificity and universality, of now, then and always . . . a joy to read. * Louie Stowell, author of Loki: A Bad God's Guide to Being Good on Rumaysa *I loved the three heroines of this wonderful tale, loved how their stories intersected each other and that they were their own rescuers and path-finders. Three classic fairytales, beautifully woven together, sparkling with magic and humour. -- Nizrana Farook, author of The Girl Who Stole an Elephant on RumaysaAll the fairytales in this exciting collection are vivid, magical and wonderful – each one spinning the genre on its head and bringing the stories right up to date with their diverse heroines taking centre stage. I just adored it! -- Jasbinder Bilan, author of Asha and the Spirit Bird on RumaysaAn enchanting and cleverly woven trio of tales filled with humour, charm, and magic. -- Aisha Bushby, author of A Pocketful of Stars on RumaysaBlending fairytales and cultures in a witty and playful story of strong-willed female protagonists, Hafiza crafts a world of magic and enchantment with immense skill. * Waterstones.com, Best Children's Books to Look Forward to in 2021 on Rumaysa *Gorgeous, through and through. -- Amy Wilson, author of A Girl Called Owl on RumaysaThis is gorgeous . . . three fairytales reimagined and woven together into a lyrical and funny treat. -- Sophie Wills, author of The Orphans of St Halibut's on RumaysaBrown girls take centre stage in the stories of Rumaysa, Cinderayla and Sleeping Sara as Hafiza puts a playful new spin on three classic fairytales . . . woven into a funny, empowering adventure of sisterhood. * The Bookseller, One to Watch on Rumaysa *

Read more less