Children’s / Teenage fiction: Crime and mystery fiction

Book SynopsisA haunting and romantic novel set in post-war Spain by Ruta Sepetys - winner of the Carnegie Medal 2017.Madrid, 1957.Daniel, young, wealthy and unsure of his place in the world, views the city through the lens of his camera.Ana, a hotel maid whose family is suffering under the fascist dictatorship of General Franco.Lives and hearts collide as they unite to uncover the hidden darkness within the city.A darkness that could engulf them all . . .Master storyteller Ruta Sepetys once again shines light into one of history''s darkest corners in this epic, heart-wrenching novel about identity, unforgettable love and the hidden violence of silence.''Ruta Sepetys is a master of historical fiction'' Elizabeth Wein, author of CODE NAME VERITY**PRAISE FOR THE FOUNTAINS OF SILENCE**Longlisted for the Carnegie Medal 2021''Spain under Francisco Franco is as dystopian a setting as Margaret Atwood''s Gilead'' New York Times''A staggering tale of love, loss and national shame'' Entertainment Weekly''Gripping. Ruta Sepetys is the finest writer of historical fiction working today'' The Wall Street Journal''Captivating, deft, and illuminating historical fiction.''Booklist''A stunning novel that exposes modern fascism and elevates human resilience.''Kirkus''An exemplary work of historical fiction.''The Horn BookTrade ReviewRuta Sepetys is the finest writer of historical fiction working today. * The Wall Street Journal *[A] towering work of historical insight. * Entertainment Weekly *A stunning novel that exposes modern fascism and elevates human resilience. * Kirkus *Captivating, deft, and illuminating historical fiction. * Booklist *Spain under Francisco Franco is as dystopian a setting as Margaret Atwood's Gilead in Ruta Sepetys's suspenseful, romantic and timely new work of historical fiction. * The New York Times Book Review *An exemplary work of historical fiction. * The Horn Book *Gripping. * Publisher's Weekly *

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Book SynopsisJoin the club, find the magic!The third book in the brilliant Secret Beast Club series - brimming with adventure, friendship and an amazing array of magical creatures! A must-read for fans of Beast Quest and Bad Mermaids.Aisha and Jayden and the rest of the Secret Beast Club are back and ready for a whole new adventure!A mysterious necklace has been found in Liverpool by Ocean Jones, the owner of a local sightseeing company. She claims the necklace belongs to a real mer-person, promoting her boat tours with promise of a real sighting.The Secret Beast Club know that a mer-person''s necklace holds powerful magic and wouldn''t be carelessly lost . . .Feeling sure that Ocean isn''t telling the whole truth, the Secret Beast Club vow to investigate. But this is their most dangerous mission yet - the sea is treacherous and mer-people have a natural mistrust of humans - will the Secret Beast Club save the day, and protect the mer-peoples'' hidden home, before they too succumb to power of mer-magic?''Magical, inclusive and exciting'' The Bookseller on The Secret Beast Club series

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Book Synopsis''Short chapters and charming illustrations mean this gentle story is perfect for early readers'' - BookTrustJoin Lizzie and Lucky on another mystery-solving adventure - this time at a magic show! Perfect for fans of Holly Webb and Anisha, Accidental Detective.Young detective Lizzie and her puppy, Lucky, are off to a magic show. But during the performance, a world-famous rabbit disappears - and not on purpose!Can Lizzie and Lucky find Rudy the rabbit, get to the bottom of who stole him, and why?With charming illustrations throughout, and fun activities to try!Trade ReviewShort chapters and charming illustrations mean this gentle story is perfect for early readers. Animal lovers will enjoy the tips on how to care for rabbits at the back, as well as the details in the story. Lizzie and her family and Ted all use sign language, which is effortlessly incorporated as a normal part of day-to-day life. The author's own experience of partial deafness means that she's keen to share this beautiful language, and at the back she's included the letters of the alphabet in British sign language, and some words to learn. * BookTrust *

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Book SynopsisIntroducing The Famous Five to younger readers with this NEWLY-CREATED story for children aged 5 and up!While helping to clear up the beach, the Five find a dog''s collar by the sea and are soon searching for the missing dog. And when they come to the new bakery, it''s not just the smell of cinnamon buns that catches Timmy''s attention ...Set in the world of Enid Blyton''s best-loved series, this newly created story follows Julian, Dick, Anne, George and Timmy the dog on a special new adventure. The story is broken down into short chapters with vibrant, full-colour illustrations on every page - perfect for shared reading or for newly confident readers to enjoy independently.Also look out for: The Birthday Adventure, Five to the Rescue! and Timmy and the Treasure, illustrated by Becka Moor.Enid Blyton''s eight original short stories about the Famous Five are also available as early readers illustrated by Jamie Littler. Colle

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Book SynopsisAs she unpacks in her new bedroom, Ella is irresistibly drawn to the big old house that she can see out of her window. Surrounded by overgrown gardens, barbed wire fences and 'keep out' signs, it looks derelict. But that night, a light goes on in one of the windows. And the next day she sees a girl in the grounds. Ella is hooked. The house has a story to tell. She is sure of it. Enter Thornhill, Institute for Children, and discover the dark secrets that lie within. But once inside, will you ever leave?Trade ReviewPam Smy has created a wonderful piece of work in Thornhill. The drawings are full of atmosphere, the words are full of tension and emotion all the more powerful for being so sparingly revealed. This is in one sense a classic English lonely-child-and-garden story, in the tradition of Frances Hodgson Burnett and Philippa Pearce; in another it's a ghost story; in another it pays tribute to the dark-sinister-house genre most famously seen in Hitchcock's Psycho. But it's also a story of friendship and courage and of the power of black-and-white images. I think it's terrific * Philip Pullman *A rule breaker . . . an unsettling, deeply memorable read * Guardian *Astonishing . . . filmic, atmospheric and suspenseful * Sunday Times *

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Book SynopsisFive Nights at Freddy''s fans won''t want to miss this collection of three chilling stories that will haunt even the bravest player...Have you ever experienced a gut feeling that told you something was wrong? . . . Caden senses the underwater animatronics in Freddy's Fantasy Water Park have a mind of their own. Robbie knows deep down that the minds of the members of the Fazbear Fan Club have been taken over by something. And Abe can't shake the feeling that the animatronic assistants in his Fazplex Tower apartment are hiding things from him. But in the world of Five Nights at Freddy''s, when something feels wrong, it's often too late to do anything about it . . .In this fourth volume, Five Nights at Freddy''s creator Scott Cawthon spins three sinister novella-length tales from uncharted corners of his series'' canon.Readers beware: This collection of terrifying tales is enough to rattle even the most hardened Five Nights at Freddy''s

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Book SynopsisFive Nights at Freddy''s fans won''t want to miss this collection of three chilling stories that will haunt even the bravest player...Have you ever had something stuck in your head . . . ? After a session in the VR Booth at the Mega Pizzaplex, Kai can't shake the feeling that the tiger animatronic somehow has stayed with him . . . A new attraction at the Mega Pizzaplex leaves Kane's mind full of intrusive thoughts not his own . . . And Danny's idea to get the attention of his high school crush comes with unimaginable consequences. . . In the world of Five Nights at Freddy's, truth is often scarier than fiction . . .In this seventh volume, Five Nights at Freddy''s creator Scott Cawthon spins three sinister novella-length tales from uncharted corners of his series'' canon.Readers beware: This collection of terrifying tales is enough to rattle even the most hardened Five Nights at Freddy''s fans.

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Book SynopsisFive Nights at Freddy''s fans won''t want to miss this pulse-pounding collection of three novella-length tales that will keep even the bravest FNAF player up at night...Consumed by failure... Desperate to keep his kiddie pizzeria from bankruptcy, Jack lets his animatronics tech pitch him a new invention that might just give him some perspective. Frustrated by an unfair arcade game, Colton throws himself into re-engineering the device at any cost. Marley''s best friend goes missing on a tour of the Freddy''s Pizza Factory; she knows what really happened... but her guilt isn''t the only thing threatening to eat her alive.In this ninth volume, Five Nights at Freddy''s creator Scott Cawthon spins three sinister novella-length stories from different corners of his series'' canon.Readers beware: This collection of terrifying tales is enough to unsettle even the most hardened Five Nights at Freddy''s fans.

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Book SynopsisThe bestselling, prize-winning Adventures on Trains series embarks on a thrilling sixth adventure as Harrison Beck and Uncle Nat climb aboard the night train to Narvik, travelling to the Arctic Circle to see the northern lights for Christmas.'A thrilling and hugely entertaining adventure story' – David Walliams on The Highland Falcon Thief, the first journey in the series.As their train leaves Stockholm, Hal and Uncle Nat realize they’re being followed by a sinister figure, and Hal’s powers of observation are tested when Uncle Nat’s past comes back to haunt him. Journeying into the never ending night of the arctic winter, our railway detectives must outsmart an assassin in their most chilling adventure yet, in which nothing is as it seems.The Arctic Railway Assassin can be read as a stand-alone novel, or enjoyed as part of the award-winning Adventures on Trains series written by M. G. Leonard and Sam Sedgman. Join Hal and Uncle Nat on more stops in this thrilling series with: Murder on the Safari Star, Danger at Dead Man's Pass and Sabotage on the Solar Express.Praise for the series:'Like Murder on the Orient Express but better!' – Frank Cottrell-Boyce on The Highland Falcon Thief'A first class choo-choo-dunnit!' – David Solomons on Kidnap on the California Comet'A high-speed train journey worth catching . . .The best yet' – The Times on Murder on the Safari Star'This series just gets better and better' – Maz Evans on Danger at Dead Man's PassTrade ReviewCracking characters, pacey plots and splendid train nerdery -- Alex O'Connell * The Times *The latest thrilling instalment of the Adventures on Trains series finds Hal and Uncle Nat on the night train to the Arctic Circle - with a sinister figure pursuing the stunning locomotive. * Waterstones Best Children's Books 2022 *(A) thrilling adventure * The Week Junior - Book of the Week *I have a station announcement: their collaboration is a chuffing triumph. Fans of Agatha Christie, or, more recently, Robin Stevens and Katherine Woodfine, should adore this mystery which makes a steam trail all of its own. Praise for The Highland Falcon Thief -- Alex O'Connell * The Times Children's Book of the Week *

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Book SynopsisThe illustrated story begins in 1766 with Billy Marvel, the lonesurvivor of a shipwreck, and charts the adventures of his familyof actors over five generations. The prose story opens in 1990 and follows Joseph, who has run awayfrom school to an estranged uncle's puzzling house in London, wherehe must piece together many mysteries...

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Book SynopsisTwo friends plan revenge on their prankster friend by catfishingher as her crush. They only mean to do it for a day or two - butthen she ends up dead. And the catfish continues to strike others- who is in control of the catfish, and who is telling the truth?

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Book SynopsisCollins brings the Queen of Crime, Agatha Christie, to English language learners.Agatha Christie is the most widely published author of all time and in any language. Now Collins has adapted her famous detective novels for English language learners. These readers have been carefully adapted using the Collins COBUILD grading scheme to ensure that the language is at the correct level for an intermediate learner. This book is Level 5 in the Collins ELT Readers series. Level 5 is equivalent to CEF level B2+ with a word count of 22,000 30,000 words.Each book includes: Full reading of the adapted version available for free online Helpful notes on characters Cultural and historical notes relevant to the plot A glossary of the more difficult words Free online resources for students and teachers atwww.collinselt.com/readersThe plot:Six people sit down for dinner at a table laid for seven. No one can forget the night exactly a year ago that Rosemary Barton died at this same table surrounded by t

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Book SynopsisA warm and brilliantly funny family comedy told from the perspective of Sammy the sniffer dog perfect for younger readers aged 7 and upSetterpoo Sammy has a BRILLIANT sense of smell. She can sniff out ANYTHING watches, explosives, even parrots!But one day, Sammy sniffs some EXTRA-HOT chilli powder and loses her sense of smell COMPLETELY. It's up to Sammy's Best Human Friend, Beanie, to help her get it back.And when Sammy finds out that someone is planning to steal a precious DIAMOND, she'll have to use ALL her instincts to save the day!

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Book SynopsisMovie available from June 12th only on Disney+ The explosive, emotional, incredible final book in the Artemis Fowl series. IS THIS THE END FOR ARTEMIS FOWL?Opal Koboi is back, and up to no good. A bit of world-domination here, a little light annihilation there.Some power-crazed pixies never change.But now Opal plans to wake the spirits of some very deadly, and very angry, long-dead fairy warriors, before releasing an ancient spell to wipe out all human life.Artemis, Butler, Holly and Mulch must make a final stand against Opal and the end of the world.But who will be willing to make the ultimate sacrifice to save humanity? ''Hugely satisfying - not to be missed'' - Irish Independent ''Engagingly vivid, exciting and witty'' - The Telegraph ''Fast, funny and very exciting'' - Daily Mail ***Artemis Fowl was winner of the WHSmith Children''s Book of the Year Award and Children''s Book of the Year at the Children''s Book Awards. Shortlisted for the Whitbread Children''s Book of the Year Award.***Trade ReviewOne of the best in the series and will not disappoint young fans * Irish Independent *

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Book Synopsis''Ideal for fans of Robin Stevens'' - The Week JuniorTHE DETENTION DETECTIVES ARE BACK! And there''s been another murder...Headstrong LYDIA leads the new case. As a school reporter, she's great at getting the facts. But when someone unexpected arrives at Gran's, it's clear she's missing some cluesSensitive DANIEL is convinced this case is linked to their first. As a young carer he's got a lot on his plate, so he needs the trio to work on this together. He just needs to persuadeNot-so-new-boy JONNO, who's settled in at Hanbridge High. But he's so distracted by his new band maybe solving crimes just isn't cool anymore? Or maybe he's scared of finding out the truthCan you solve the case before THE DETENTION DETECTIVES?Praise for The Detention Detectives series: Top-grade misbehaviour' The Guardian''a fresh new take on the murder mystery genre'' - The School Library Association''Friendship, trust, courage and determination are at the heart of this extremely funny murder-mystery tale'' - BookTrust''Lis Jardine is an exciting new voice...This new school set crime series is well worth investigating'' - LoveReading4KidsTrade ReviewIdeal for fans of Robin Stevens * The Week Junior *

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Book SynopsisShortlisted for the Inclusive Books for Children Award 2024!Join young detective Lizzie and her adorable puppy Lucky on another mystery-solving adventure! With charming illustrations throughout, and fun activities to try.Lizzie and Lucky are visiting the Five Freedoms Sanctuary. It''s a lovely place for all sorts of rescued animals.When a local farmer announces some terrible plans for his land that could endanger the surrounding wildlife, our dynamic duo know they must investigate the case. Can they use their detective skills to stop him?While looking for clues, Lizzie spots some strange footprints and an unusual blue creature that stands out from the rest! But what is it, and where did it come from? Could it be the key to saving the day?Praise for the Lizzie & Lucky books:''The author''s experience of partial deafness shines through, with helpful but gentle hints about the importance of accessibility and

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Book SynopsisAnd Then There Were None meets The Inheritance Games, with a heavy dash of The Woman in Black, in this gloriously gothic YA mystery-thriller.When eighteen-year-old Helena is sent to be a governess at Archfall Manor - a beautiful but crumbling manor house, perched at the edge of a causeway in the North Sea - she feels confident she will know how to deal with the esteemed but eccentric Cauldwell family who own it. But it quickly becomes clear that the Cauldwells are hiding more than Helena could ever have dreamed of.A series of sinister events come to a head with a gruesome death - swiftly followed by another. Worse still, with the path back to the mainland cut off by a terrible storm, and no way to get help, suspicions and paranoia quickly run rampant.But the Cauldwells aren''t the only ones keeping secrets. Helena has some very important ones of her own - and soon she begins to wonder whether dark powers beyond her control might be forcing her to twist the fate of the family - and her own destiny - forever.Praise for A Dark Inheritance: A powerful, heart-racing story of family, fate, and writing your own destiny. Intricately plotted and luminously written - I loved it Laura Steven, author of The Society for Soulless GirlsTrade ReviewPraise for A Dark Inheritance: "A powerful, heart-racing story of family, fate, and writing your own destiny. Intricately plotted and luminously written - I loved it" * Laura Steven, author of The Society for Soulless Girls *

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Book SynopsisA stunningly imagined, page-turning, inclusive upper middle gradefantasy adventure, for fans of Nevermoor, Neverwhere and MortalEngines, from bestselling and critically acclaimed author PatriceLawrence.

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Book SynopsisBefore he wrote ''A Series of Unfortunate Events'', before the Baudelaires became orphans, even before the invention of Netflix, Lemony Snicket asked all the wrong questions. Four to be exact. This is the account of the third question.Young apprentice Lemony Snicket is investigating a case of arson but soon finds himself enveloped in the ever-increasing mystery that haunts the town of Stain'd-by-the-Sea.Who is setting the fires? What secrets are hidden in the Department of Education? Why are so many schoolchildren in danger? Is it all the work of the notorious villain Hangfire? How could you even ask that? What kind of education have you had?In the tradition of great storytellers, from Dickens to Dahl, comes an exquisitely dark comedy that is both literary and irreverent. You'll laugh only if you find humour in gothic and mysterious things involving detectives and crime solving.Lemony's other literary outings in A Series of Unfortunate Events' have sold60 millioncopies worldwide and beTrade ReviewFans will be over the moon * Kirkus Reviews *

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Book SynopsisThink you know Nancy Drew? Think again—and help solve myriad mysteries in a boxed set of the first four books in this new take on the classic series.Nancy Drew is a spectacular sleuth, one who relies on her wits more than her smartphone. She and her best friends, Bess and George, solve cases using their powers of observation, deductive skills, and sharp intelligence—and their adventures are always full of suspense. This boxed set includes Curse of the Arctic Star, Strangers on a Train, Mystery of the Midnight Rider, and Once Upon a Thriller.

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Book SynopsisOne evening Edie is babysitting for a neighbour, Donna, who has repeatedly caught sight of an estranged friend from overseas. What is troubling Donna, however, is that it seems she's been in the same place at the same time as this friend on a number of occasions over the past few days. At Donna's request, Edie looks into these apparent coincidences, using a combination of investigative work and conversations with her rabbi (who is tutoring Edie in preparation for her bat mitzvah) about the nature of fatalism and determinism. Meanwhile, Edie's school friend Harry Coranger is suspicious of his stepfather, who has become involved with ultra-radical anti-capitalists who, furious at the state of the planet and its greed-fuelled decline, are plotting an audacious double atrocity: a bombing and a hijacking. When Harry bizarrely disappears, Edie becomes embroiled in trying to find him and, ultimately, foil the terrorists' plans. Utilising her brave instincts and skills as a supersleuth for hire, Edie sets about resolving and averting the mysteries and crises that she is confronted with as she comes to realise that things often happen outside of chance, and outside of our understanding and control. Outside Chance is the second instalment in Anthony Kessel's four-book Don't Doubt the Rainbow series a new contemporary middle-grade detective series with a difference. To solve each mystery, 13-year-old Edie Marble must harness the Three Principles, a new approach to understanding how the mind works that is currently proving invaluable in improving mental health and well-being in children internationally. Reading age 11+.Trade ReviewA brilliant book! I loved Edie and the adventures she gets into - fantastically described by Antony Kessel. Overall, a whirlwind of mystery, excitement and suspense.This was an amazing book that I loved! Even though I hadn't read the first one (I definitely will after reading this one) from the very start I was hooked and needed to read on. The characters, plot and style of writing were brilliant. Our main character Edie finds herself in a sudden tangle of mystery and chaos! The plot is really engaging and exciting with lots of twists and turns as well as being understandableSupersleuth Edie Marble is on the case again, or more specifically four cases. First there is the case of the missing dogs on Hampstead Heath and in North London. Secondly the serendipity of Donna seeing a long-lost friend from university, everywhere. Thirdly Richard's case: his brother Martin has failed his first-year exams at medical school. Fourthly, finally, Harry's case: his stepdad's change in behaviour and the new friends he has found is worrying him. Like any other teenager Edie must also juggle school, homework and friendship issues when her detective work makes her less attentive towards best friend, Lizzie as well as family commitments. This seems to be culminating for her at home as she prepares for her Bat Mitzvah, a year later than normal after her mother's murder. Outside Chance, however, wouldn't be the second book in Anthony Kessel's incredible Don't Doubt the Rainbow series unless there was great personal risk to Edie, her family or her most loved guinea pig, Gunther. All the clues - Anthony cleverly includes a number of apparently missed clues that Edie does not immediately follow up - lead Edie to a terrifying possibility of an act of terrorism, but she does not know when or where. It is now just a question of when Edie will call the Police.Set after the events of The Five Clues, Edie is trying to keep a lot of plates spinning. Her detective business is ever growing with many people asking her to follow up various mysteries: first there is the case of the missing dogs, then there is the bizarre behaviour of one of her school friends' dad, and then there is her neighbour who also needs a helping hand and her best friend also seems to throw a spanner in the works. Edie is also preparing for her Bar Mitzvah as well as balancing her schoolwork and judo... How much can one girl cope with?Edie is a strong and complicated character who has very real teen struggles, but she has an old head on young shoulders which make her mature and thoughtful (but also prone to the many pitfalls of trying to do too much all at once). She has grown up a little since the last book and we, the readers, are treated to her changes and development as a detective, a student and also as a daughter. Kessel seamlessly weaves in some quite complex themes into this book: the environment and climate change, the Principles of Mind, Jewish theology and the ideas of fatalism and determinism. Kessel makes these themes accessible to all and will want to make readers explore these issues and thoughts more deeply (just as Edie does). I really loved this second instalment in the Don't Doubt the Rainbow series as I can guarantee that, 1. you won't put it down until you finish it and 2. that you get sucked straight into a world of mysteries (that are believable and so well thought-out). This brings a mystery story to the next level - and, with the promise of two more books to follow in the near future, you can bet anything that I will be recommending this book to everyone!Outside Chance, the second book in the Don't Doubt The Rainbow series by Anthony Kessel, is a cracking read! Fast-paced and page-turning, I read it in a couple of sittings whilst on holiday and it was the perfect mystery to enjoy at the beach. That said, it would be a good read for any time of year and I enjoyed it even more than the first book in the series.Again, the story centres around Edie, the main character, an award-winning teen detective. Her character and that of her family and friends are developed further and in Outside Chance I found Edie to be softer, more thoughtful perhaps and reflective in this story. Once again, the intrigue is layered while Edie balances her family life, school and her multiple detective cases. The outcome is not obvious as you read and there were at least three surprises at the end that I didn't anticipate. Nevertheless, all the loose threads were satisfyingly resolved.The author weaves detective strategy and psychological theories into the story and the school-based course for well-being and resilience sounded so good I wish it was available for all students. I will definitely recommend this book to all my secondary students and eagerly await the next one in the series.Ruth CornishA brilliant second part to Edie's adventures. I think I got more wrapped up in this one than the first.It's great to be back with Edie and her family. She's grown up a bit and now has a little babysitting job as well as her detective agency work. She seems to have quite a few cases on the go, some more serious than others. I do like the green message in this book, I love the sound of her friend's house and all the things his dad has done to make it as green as possible and it's made me want to do more than I already do. This story has more of Edie's friends in it and she recruits them to help her solve one of her cases - missing dogs.Lily O'Dwyer

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Book SynopsisFive Nights at Freddy''s fans won''t want to miss this collection of three chilling stories that will haunt even the bravest FNAF playerHave you ever wanted something badly, even though you shouldn't? . . . Steve's dreams of a video game programming career and starting a family lead him to take a job that seems too good to be true. Aiden and Jace can't resist scaring some young kids in the tube maze of Freddy Fazbear's Mega Pizzaplex. And all Billy wants is to become the perfect ideal of what he knows he really isan animatronic. But in the world of Five Nights at Freddy''s, be careful what you wish for . . .In this second volume, Five Nights at Freddy''s creator Scott Cawthon spins three sinister novella-length tales from uncharted corners of his series'' canon.Readers beware: This collection of terrifying tales is enough to rattle even the most hardened Five Nights at Freddy''s fans.

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Book SynopsisA pulse-pounding collection of three terrifying Five Night's at Freddy's tales.

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Book SynopsisIn Medlock, a secretive guild of inventors have brought spirits ofthe dead back into the world, harnessing them in animal-like machines. Young Prue has joined as an apprentice, but she's on a missionof her own: to bring her brother back to life. To find him,she needs to get the ghost machines to remember the people theyused to be.

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Book SynopsisIntroducing The Famous Five to younger readers, age 5+. In this full-colour, newly created adventure story, the children and Timmy find a special toy, hidden deep inside a cave . . . The Five have found a bottle with a message inside! It says that there''s a hidden doll in the caves across from Kirrin Island, so the Five set off on a rescue mission. But the caves are dark and they soon lose their way ...Set in the world of Enid Blyton''s best-loved series, this newly created story follows Julian, Dick, Anne, George and Timmy the dog on a special new adventure. The story is broken down into short chapters with vibrant, full-colour illustrations on every page - perfect for shared reading or for newly confident readers to enjoy independently.Also look out for: The Birthday Adventure, Five to the Rescue!, Timmy and the Treasure and Five and the Runaway Dog, illustrated by Becka Moor.Enid Blyton''s eight original short st

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Book SynopsisFollow London's newest detective, Enola Holmes, in her electrifying fifth escapade - from the series that inspired the films, starring Millie Bobby Brown. Read them all before the next film lands!While on the run from her brother Sherlock, the world's most famous detective, Enola Holmes has been hiding in plain sight, lodging with Mrs Tupper. Mrs Tupper may be half-deaf and a terrible cook, but she is the closest thing Enola has to a family. So when she discovers that her dear land lady has been abducted, Enola is shocked but determined to find out why. Especially when she finds cryptic codes within a crinoline underskirt in Mrs Tupper's upturned room. . . But who could have taken Mrs Tupper? And why do all the clues lead to Florence Nightingale?It's another gripping case for our young heroine in this enthralling fifth mystery. 'A story of a young girl who is empowered, capable, and smart ... the Enola Holmes book series conveys an impactful message to kids and teenagers all ov

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Book SynopsisWINNER OF THE LITTLE REBELS AWARDS FOR RADICAL CHILDREN'S FICTION 2024The second book in the thrilling middle grade mystery series, perfect for fans of Robin Steven's Murder Most Unladylike. Set in eighteenth-century London, with all the fun and zest of Hamilton and inspired by real Black British historical figures.The Lizzie and Belle Mysteries: Drama and Danger is winner of The Week Junior Children's Book of the Year: Breakthrough Award, and shortlisted for the Waterstones 2023 Children's Book Prize!?With its themes of civil disobedience and rebellion, channels the spirit, energy and optimism of the Little Rebels Award.Agents of history. Partners in Mystery. Sisters in solving crime.Twelve-year-olds Lizzie Sancho and Dido Belle are from different worlds Lizzie lives in Westminster in her dad's tea shop, while Belle is an heiress being brought up by her aunt and uncle at grand Kenwood House but they both share a love of solving mysteries. And after saving Lizzie's father from attempted murder surely there is no threat too challenging for this detective duo?It's the summer of 1777, the night of the grand unveiling of the Sancho-Mansfields family portrait and a celebration of friendship, family, and freedom! But all too soon things take a dark turn the painting has been stolen! Now it is time for Lizzie and Belle to put their sleuthing skills to the ultimate test, following a trail of thefts, kidnappings and even poisonings that haunts the twisting London streets.With a grand conspiracy afoot, and a mysterious organisation threatening their closest friends and family, who can Lizzie and Belle trust?Once again it is up to the two girls to unveil the truth and put an end to the villainy that plagues the city.Trade Review Reviews for Lizzie and Belle: Drama and Danger “Black British Georgian history is effectively brought to life through characters based on real people, but it is the suspense and plot twists that keep the pages turning” – Sarah Keating, The Irish Times ‘This vivid theatreland mystery – whose atmospheric setting recalls Phillip Pullman’s The Ruby and the Smoke series – is deeply rooted in the abolitionist milieu and resonates sonorously today.’The Observer, Chapter Books of the Month, 29th May 2022 ‘I was hooked from the outset as Williams expertly takes the real life historical figures of two black Georgians Lizzie Sancho and Dido Belle and imagines them tackling a mystery of an attempted onstage murder! From the descriptions of the Jamaica Coffee House to the candle lit theatre chandeliers Georgian London is vividly brought to life. A must read for mystery fans.’Joseph Coelho, Waterstone’s Children’s Laureate “Bringing Georgian London vividly to life, this is a wonderful historical mystery with two delightful heroines. I can't wait to read the next instalment and find out what Lizzie and Belle will get up to next!”Katherine Woodfine, author of The Sinclair’s Mysteries series

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Book SynopsisOrdinary Kids. Extraordinary Adventures. Laughs for the Whole Family.''Action-packed, hilarious and EPIC!'' Annabel Steadman, author of SKANDAR AND THE UNICORN THIEFAn epic superhero adventure with a twist from Radio 1 broadcasters and bestselling authors of KID NORMAL and THE GREAT DREAM ROBBERY.Do you like superheroes? Do you like pandas? Do you like really brilliant adventures? Then this is the book for you!When world famous superhero Dr Extraordinary gets blown up inside a giant robot, twelve-year-old Sonny Nelson is devastated. A world without heroes is totally rubbish!But things take an even more extraordinary turn when Dr Ex returns and is invisible to everyone except Sonny!Readers LOVE The Great Dream Robbery:''I wanna be a member of the Dream Bandits!''''Escapist and daft and just a whole lot of fun''''Thoroughly enjoyed it from beginning to crazy end''''This madcap adventure could have only been dreamt up by the crazy minds of Greg James and Chris Smith - part science-fiction, part mission impossible, part mystery that needs solving and a whole lot of fun''

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Book Synopsis''A powerful, heart-racing story of family, fate, and writing your own destiny. Intricately plotted and luminously written - I loved it.'' Laura Steven, author of The Society for Soulless GirlsOnce I had four brothers. Three of them are dead. I am next.Felix Ashe is sure of only one thing. In thirty days, on his eighteenth birthday, he will die. He might be the only one convinced of this, but the gruesome deaths of his three brothers before him seem to point to only one thing: a curse, one doomed to stop anyone inheriting his family''s incredible fortune.Felix doesn''t care about money, or himself, particularly. It''s hard to have a stake in the future when you know you haven''t got one. But he does care about his little brother Nick, very much. And when an opportunity to break the curse appears to present itself, it''s impossible not to heed its dark call.Soon long-buried secrets will take Felix to the darkest underbelly of Jazz-

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Book SynopsisIt'd be easy to get lost in there, and Freya's sure she can hear voices echoing from them when the wind blows.Then a mysterious woman moves into Freya's granny's B&B and soon everything that Freya loves about Edge is under threat.

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Book SynopsisJoin Lizzie and Lucky on another mystery-solving adventure! Perfect for fans of Holly Webb and Anisha, Accidental Detective.When Lizzie and her cute puppy Lucky go on a family trip to the seaside, something doesn''t seem right. There''s talk of missing treasure no one has been able to find for years and years, and artefacts are mysteriously disappearing in the local museum. Anyone else would shrug it off but this dynamic duo just know there is a mystery to be solved here - and they won''t leave until they figure it out!

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Book SynopsisOrdinary Kids. Extraordinary Adventures. Laughs for the Whole Family.Big Dreams, even BIGGER trouble . . .Radio 1 broadcasters and bestselling authors of KID NORMAL - Greg James and Chris Smith - are back with a mind-bending adventure you won''t want to wake up from . . .Have you ever had a really strange dream? Maya Clayton definitely has. Last night she dreamt that her dad, the brilliant but slightly odd Professor Dexter, had been trapped in a nightmare by his evil boss Lilith Delamere!But it''s not just a dream - it''s real and Maya and her new friends the Dream Bandits must rescue the Professor before it''s too late! All they need is a bit of courage and a LOT of imagination.Readers LOVE The Great Dream Robbery:''I wanna be a member of the Dream Bandits!''''Escapist and daft and just a whole lot of fun''''Thoroughly enjoyed it from beginning to crazy end''''This madcap adventure could have only been dreamt up by the crazy minds of Greg James and Chris Smith - part science-fiction, part mission impossible, part mystery that needs solving and a whole lot of fun''

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Book SynopsisA twisty murder mystery, a pulse-pounding thriller, a contemporarysetting with a breath-taking speculative twist: this is YA fictionat its absolute finest.

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Book SynopsisMeet Julian, Dick, Anne, George and Timothy. Together they are THE FAMOUS FIVE - Enid Blyton''s most popular adventure series. All 21 titles also available as audiobooks!In book seven, the Famous Five investigate spook trains in the dead of night. The trains seem to vanish into thin air, but where do they go? The Five discover an unusual underground tunnel system and a secret train-service.If they follow the tracks, will they solve the mystery?Fantastic new cover art by Laura Ellen Anderson will draw young readers into this accessible timeless classic.Trade ReviewThe prize must go to the adventures of George and co. Listed as one of the 100 Best Children's Books Ever (Novels) * The Daily Telegraph *One of the 50 books every child should read by Age 16 * essexbaby.co.uk *Famous Five books are essential for all children's bookshelves * MADEFORMUMS.COM *I thought this series was wonderful. It struck me as a great injustice that they were having adventures and I wasn't -- Alexander McCall Smith * The Sunday Telegraph *Dangerous criminals are no match for children and a dog. Adults are useless * Country Life *Always popular, always a favourite. And ALWAYS full of adventure -- Dan Smith * The Big Issue *

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Book SynopsisA glorious magical mystery novel in verse about family, identity and belonging, from the author of The Stories Grandma Forgot (and How I Found Them) and The Hidden Story of Estie Noor. With accessible text and beautiful illustrations throughout, this story is perfect for fans of Matt Goodfellow, Onjali Q. Raúf or Disney's Encanto.

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Book Synopsis'Immensely, cheerily silly' Guardian Dog lost in space? Grown an extra head and don't know why? Pocket money stolen by a green blob? You need the Space Detectives! Connor and Ethan are spending their summer holidays aboard the world's first orbiting city, Starville (basically Beverley Hills in space!). The amazing space station is bursting with celebrities and the mega-rich. But Connor and Ethan are too busy selling ice cream to see the sights. However, neither of our heroes can resist a mystery and when they discover the space station is hurtling on a collision course with the moon (eep!) they know they need to step in. This is a case for the SPACE DETECTIVES! Can Connor and Ethan find the culprit and save Starville from its impending doom? LOOK OUT FOR SPACE DETECTIVES: EXTRA WEIRD CREATURESTrade ReviewPacked with witty and dynamic black-and-white illustrations and a very human underlying message, this is an ideal chapter book for newly independent readers * BookTrust Great Books Guide 2021 *Immensely, cheerily silly * Guardian *A thunderously good read, so funny and action packed. I loved that it was fast paced and packed with wonderfully weird, out of this world characters brilliantly drawn. Children are going to love it! * Serena Patel, author of ANISHA, ACCIDENTAL DETECTIVE *SPACE DETECTIVES immerses you into an AMAZINGLY FUN galaxy of aliens, mystery, intrigue and has more twists than a puff pastry cheese twisty! Connor and Ethan are a ZILLION times better than Sherlock Holmes AND they have a sense of humour that is OUT OF THIS WORLD...watch out for the Snarltoothed Grizloid though! * Rikin Parekh *“Perfect space escapism with incredible art that screams "make me into a long-running cartoon please Netflix". A visual treat for younger readers with just the right amount of danger and drama.” * Louie Stowell *An intergalactic giggle-fest * Emer Stamp *This book was definitely a joy and a 5 star * NetGalley Reviewer *A great adventure filled with laughs & hijinks! * NetGalley Reviewer *I can't think of many children who would not enjoy this! * Educator, NetGalley Reviewer *Action and humour aplenty * Bookseller on SPY TOYS *‘[a] new series for fans of adventure and mystery to explore ... Author Mark Powers and illustrator Dapo Adeola serve up a thrilling intergalactic adventure with plenty of twists and turns * The Scotsman *

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Book SynopsisRiz Chester is an average 11-year-old girl. She cant do anything special and is average at school. But Riz is particularly picky, she notices when the teacher is 2 minutes late, or when the food brand used in the cheese sandwiches changes. She also notices when money doesnt feel quite right. Spotted by a police officer, Riz gets called in for questioning. She demonstrates she indeed does easily notice the difference between the normal notes and the counterfeit ones, even though before her interaction with the officer she had never heard of counterfeiting. The officer explains that there is a ring of counterfeiting occurring locally but they havent been able to pinpoint the criminal source. Mum cannot remember where the notes came from, but something sticks out to Riz when she thinks about it later. She recruits her friends to help her help investigate, carefully planning a course of action to track down the counterfeit notes. With the help of Riz and her friends, the police uncover the counterfeit operation

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Book SynopsisJustice Jones, super-smart super-sleuth, is back for her second spine-tingling adventure! For fans of Robin Stevens, Katherine Woodfine and Enid Blyton.When Justice returns for spring term at Highbury House, it's not long before murder is back on her mind. Assigned to look after the elderly Mr Arthur in Smugglers' Lodge on the other side of the marshes from school, Justice is initially dismayed. But dismay quickly gives way to intrigue as she finds herself drawn to Mr Arthur and his stories of piloting in the First World War - and especially when Dorothy, who lives nearby, tells her that the lodge is haunted.But when Mr Arthur dies in mysterious circumstances, Justice soon has a list of questions in her journal: why hasn't he been given a proper military funeral? Why does the new Matron not seem to know much about First Aid? And what secrets does Smugglers' Lodge really hold?Justice sets out to uncover the deadly truth in this brilliant follow-up to A Girl Called Justice.

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Book Synopsis Book 3 in the New York Times bestselling series - perfect for curious readers! 'This book reminded me of some of the children’s books I grew up with, like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and The Phantom Tollbooth.' RICK RIORDAN, author of the PERCY JACKSON series on book 1 'Like the Potter books, this story goes beyond mere adventure' BOOKLIST on book 1 Reynie, Kate, Sticky and Constance are back – but so is Mr Curtain, with another devious scheme. Can the Mysterious Benedict Society thwart Mr Curtain's plans, even whilst held prisoner? Join them on their adventure as they face all sorts of dilemmas in a bid to save Stonetown ... Book 3 in the 4-book New York Times bestselling adventure series – ideal for children aged 10 and up Join a group of smart and resourceful junior sleuths as they solve a series of page-turning puzzles and mysteries Perfect for fans of Robin Stevens's MURDER MOST UNLADYLIKE series The adventure continues in book 4, THE MYSTERIOUS BENEDICT SOCIETY AND THE RIDDLE OF AGES

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Book SynopsisIntroducing The Famous Five to younger readers with this NEWLY-CREATED story for children aged 5 and up!Set in the world of Enid Blyton''s best-loved series, this newly-created early reader follows Julian, Dick, Anne, George and Timmy the dog on a special new adventure - illustrated in gorgeous full-colour throughout by Becka Moor. Expect all the usual excitement as the Five head off to birthday party with a very special present. Little do they know, two thieves are on their trail and desperate to get their hands on it... The story is broken down into short chapters with vibrant, full-colour illustrations on every page - perfect for shared reading or for newly confident readers to enjoy independently. This new title sits alongside Enid Blyton''s eight original short stories about the Famous Five- also available in early reader format, illustrated by Jamie Littler. Collect them all! A Lazy AfternoonGeorge''s Hair Is Too LongWell Done, Famous Five Five and a Half-Term AdventureWhen Timmy Chased the Cat Five Have a Puzzling TimeGood Old TimmyHappy Christmas, Five!***The Famous Five, Enid Blyton and Enid Blyton''s signature are registered trade marks of Hodder & Stoughton Limited. No trade mark or copyrighted material may be reproduced without the express written permission of the trade mark and copyright owner.

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Book SynopsisFollowing SHELTER and SECONDS AWAY - the gripping new Mickey Bolitar YA thriller from the internationally bestselling master of suspense.It''s been eight months since Mickey Bolitar witnessed the tragic death of his father. Eight months of lies, dark secrets and unanswered questions. While he desperately wants answers, Mickey''s sophomore year of high school brings on a whole new set of troubles. Spoon is in hospital, Rachel won''t tell him where he stands, his basketball teammates hate him . . . and then there''s Ema''s surprise announcement: she has an online boyfriend and he''s vanished.As he''s searching for Ema''s missing boyfriend (who may not even exist!), Mickey also gets roped into helping his nemesis, Troy Taylor, with a big problem. All the while, Mickey and his friends are pulled deeper into the mysteries surrounding the Abeona Shelter, risking their lives to find the answers - until the shocking climax, where Mickey finally comes face-to-face withTrade ReviewDark, tautly structured thrillers - THE TIMESEnjoyably intricate - SUNDAY TELEGRAPHPacy, packed with colourful characters, cracking dialogue and a suitably twisting plot, this is Coben at his best - DAILY EXPRESSOne of the most joyously readable crime writers in the world right now - HEAT

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Book SynopsisFive Nights at Freddy''s fans won''t want to miss this collection of three chilling stories that will haunt even the bravest FNAF player...Some secrets are better left hidden . . . A forbidden artifact from her fiancé's past beckons to Selena. Jessica leads a double-life from her friends and coworkers in the children's wing of a hospital. Maya can't resist the temptation to explore an off-limits area of Freddy Fazbear's Mega Pizzaplex. But in the world of Five Nights at Freddy''s, everything comes with a price to pay.In this first volume, Five Nights at Freddy''s creator Scott Cawthon spins three sinister novella-length tales from uncharted corners of his series'' canon.Readers beware: This collection of terrifying tales is enough to rattle even the most hardened Five Nights at Freddy''s fans.

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Book Synopsis'Disturbingly compelling' - GuardianA blackly comic tale about two children you would never want to meet - from the film director of Saltburn and Promising Young Woman. Set in the Cornish town of Fowey, all is not as idyllic as the beautiful seaside town might seem.Trade ReviewEmerald Fennell combines sharp psychological insight with mordant humour to fashion a dark, contemporary fairy tale. * Daily Mail *...a mash-up of Carrie and Bluebeard with a touch of The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo, is smart, modern and fresh. This savagely and ultimately bleak tale is not for the faint of heart. * Financial Times *Monsters by Emerald Fennell is absolutely great. It's about two appalling children, a sinister seaside holiday and a spate of murders. It's gripping and astonishingly, gleefully dark. * The Spectator *Emerald Fennel's MONSTERS is a tremendous, destabilising work of fiction, infusing the mundane with eerie and unsettling darkness. It is written, moreover, in a remarkable tone of voice: Roald Dahl meets Muriel Spark. Astonishing. -- William Boyd * New Statesman *..the two kids embark on a blissful summer of voyeurism, spying, and youthful sleuthing of the most appalling kind. They may not be the Secret Seven, but they are disturbingly compelling. -- Imogen Russell Williams * The Guardian *Emerald Fennel's MONSTERS will delight 12-plus fans of Edward Gorey, Lemony Snicket and Bret Easton Ellis; it is a hideously funny account by a cynical 13 year old girl of a series of murders in the Cornish town of Fowey. Sophisticated and suspenseful, it has a view of parents that adults would be wise to avoid reading. -- Amanda Craig * New Statesman *It's very difficult not to overuse the word disturbing to describe this book... Monsters is a challenging novel for teens that is a well-balanced combination of shocking, thought-provoking and gruesomely entertaining writing. * We Love This Book *A modern classic... Not for the faint-hearted, but lovers of pitch-black humour, unreliable narrators and unspeakable children will have a ball with Fennell's tale of an idyllic Cornish town, an inconvenient body, and two 12-year-olds unwholesomely obsessed with murder * Guardian *

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Book SynopsisEnter the world of Septimus Heap, Wizard Apprentice. Magyk is his destiny. A powerful necromancer plans to seize control of all things Magykal. He has killed the Queen and locked up the Extraordinary Wizard. Now with Darke Magyk he will create a world filled with Darke creatures. But the Necromancer made one mistake. A vital detail he has overlooked means there is a boy who can stop him - the only problem is, the boy doesn''t know it yet.For the Heap family, life as they know is about to change, and the most fantastically fast-paced adventure of confused identities, magyk and mayhem, begin.Trade ReviewPraise for Septimus Heap series: Warm, funny and humane, Sage takes care with the destiny of even her smallest characters, and is a real discovery * Amanda Craig, The Times *Her yarn scoots along like a dragon-boat with the wind in its sails * Nicolette Jones, Sunday Times *Full of hurtle-paced humour * Telegraph *Wonderfully imaginative . . . Children of all ages will relish this * Waterstone’s Guide to Kid’s Books *

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