Children’s / Teenage fiction: Crime and mystery fiction

Book SynopsisCelebrate the 90th anniversary of the iconic teen sleuth with this beautifully designed, collectible boxed set of the Nancy Drew Diaries series, a fresh approach to the classic mystery series!Danger and mystery abound in this suspenseful series. Join Nancy Drew and her friends as they journey to Alaska, compete in a horse show, investigate election sabotage, get stranded at a lake, and much more! With all new covers—only available in this boxed set—this specially redesigned collection of the first ten Nancy Drew Diaries celebrates the clever, independent sleuth who has inspired many women over the years, including Oprah and Supreme Court Justices Sonia Sotomayor, Sandra Day O’Connor, and Ruth Bader Ginsburg. This thrilling paperback collection includes: Curse of the Arctic Star Strangers on a Train Mystery of the Midnight Rider Once Upon a Thriller Sabotage at Willow Woods Secret at Mystic Lake The Phantom of Nantucket The Magician’s Secret The Clue at Black Creek Farm A Script for Danger

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Book SynopsisABRIDGED EDITIONIf I die, the truth will be lost for ever . . . I must pass on the secret. History professor Robert Langdon receives an urgent late-night phone call while on business in France: the curator of the Louvre in Paris has been brutally murdered inside the museum. Alongside the body, police have found a series of baffling codes and need Langdon''s help to decipher them. When Langdon and a French cryptologist, Sophie Neveu, begin to sort through the bizarre riddles, they find a trail that leads to the works of the famous artist and inventor Leonardo Da Vinci. As the clues unfold, Langdon and Neveu must decipher the code and quickly assemble the pieces of the puzzle before a stunning historical truth is lost forever . . .

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Book SynopsisThe thrilling new novel from the award-winning author of I Have No SecretsA chance meeting and a secret message drags Libby into a thrilling mystery, but no one believes she can spot the clues. Can she make them realise what she is really capable of, before it's too late?Libby is visually impaired but that doesn't stop her being a keen photographer. She loves going out walking with her guide dog, Samson, and taking photos, but her family worry about her and Libby wishes she could be more independent.The day that the boy gives her a secret note to deliver changes everything. Because soon after, the boy goes missing, and no one except Libby and her new friend Kyle thinks there is anything to worry about.Libby knows there''s no way her parents would let her get involved. But what if she's the only person who can solve the mystery?A compulsive page-turner for readers aged 12 and up.

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Book SynopsisMeet RORY BRANAGAN he eats bad guys for breakfast. Well, not ACTUALLY. But he IS the best detective in town. Third in a hilarious illustrated comedy-crime book series for kids.Hello. I am Rory Branagan. I am ACTUALLY a detective.This week, my school put on the BIGGEST, BEST school fete the world has ever known. We are raising money to make St Bart''s BOOMTASTIC, with adventure playgrounds and even a DRAGON. But now the cash has GONE, and my Accomplice Cassidy ''the Cat'' Callaghan has been BLAMED for stealing it. I''m thinking I must use my detectiving to find the real thief and RESCUE the Cat!Join Rory as he LEAPS into a new crime-fighting adventure with a dastardly theft, the biggest crime lord ever, head teachers that look like turkeys, and a real live KOMODO DRAGON. There are seven books in the RORY BRANAGAN (DETECTIVE) series and this is the third. Perfect for readers aged 8 and up.Trade Review Praise for Rory Branagan (Detective) ‘I read it COVER to COVER immediately. I absolutely loved it and it put a smile the size of the Grand Canyon on my face. It is so delightful … Ralph's quizzical, characterful and charming illustrations are the perfect foil to that Clover storytelling magic, full of humour, genuinely thrilling and moving to boot.' Piers Torday, author of The Last Wild trilogy ‘The Rory Branagan books are fun, fast, and child friendly. The perfect link between picture books and full length novels. If your children like books like The Diary of a Wimpy kid, they'll love these.' Adam Baron, author of Boy Underwater ‘I adore Rory Branagan, Detective … perfect for children who love graphic novels, laughter, and actual mysteries. Illustrations (by Ralph Lazar) are hilarious, full of motion, and propel you from page to page because they're irresistible. Gobble up one of these books in an hour or pace yourself to make them last. Five out of five stars!’ Alison McGhee, New York Times bestselling author ‘Words and illustrations are both very funny and surprisingly touching … A great new series for young readers.’ LoveReading4Kids ‘A totally addictive page-turning storyline … Incredibly clever.’ The Bookbag ‘A pure page turner … So good I bought it at lunch and had it finished before I went to bed. Every page is packed with comedy adventure and beautiful illustrations.' Joseph, aged 11 'I loved the book, it was great. It took me one day to read because I couldn't put it down.' G, aged 9 'A very good book. It's very inspirational and shows you to keep trying and don't let anyone put you down. You can be whatever you want to be so follow your dreams. Even if you're small, you can do big things!' Reader, aged 9

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Book SynopsisThe third title in this breakout new detective series, from the author of the spine-tingling Scarlet and Ivy series.When a large diamond goes missing from Silvershell Manor, who better to get to the bottom of the mystery than detective Violet Veil and her dog Bones.But nothing is quite as it seems when it comes to the missing heirloom and when a trail of origami birds leads them to the mysterious Crane, a young casino owner and debt collector, Violet realises that it's all just turned into a game of high stakes

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“A delightful reimagining of a classic that will be enjoyed by Jane Austen fans and mystery readers alike.” — School Library Journal “An absolute treat. A thrilling Regency romp worth investigating.” — Booklist “An engaging mystery that will find a ready audience among Jane Austen fans.” — Kirkus Reviews Praise for Pride and Premeditation: “Price’s lively debut adds feminist twists in this reimagining of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. A suspenseful and distinctive read." — Booklist "Pride and Premeditation is a romantic and entertaining page-turner, sure to delight readers of any genre." — Kerri Maniscalco, #1 NYT bestselling author of the Stalking Jack the Ripper series "Clever and witty, perfectly written, compulsively readable, and utterly unputdownable." — Virginia Boecker, author of An Assassin's Guide to Love and Treason “Price’s YA debut is a clever, twisting murder mystery adaptation that will keep both Austen fans and newcomers on their toes.” — School Library Journal

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Book SynopsisFurther adventures of Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson.

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Book SynopsisLeon Garfield was a British novelist, born in 1921. He is best known for children's historical novels, though he also wrote for adults. He wrote more than thirty books including Shakespeare's Stories - retellings of Shakespeare's plays for children, and he won many awards including the Guardian Award and the Carnegie Medal. He died in 1996, aged 74.

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Book SynopsisClare Balding''s second brilliant adventure for Charlie Bass and her funny family of humans and animals.Life is slowly getting back to normal for Charlie after her reluctant racehorse, Noble Warrior, won the Derby and saved her family from financial ruin. But drama soon returns to Folly Farm when thieves break into the farmyard in the dead of night and kidnap Noble Warrior! With the police baffled and no trace of the prizewinning thoroughbred to be found, Charlie launches her own investigation...Trade ReviewA heart-warming story with a great girl-power message * Jacqueline Wilson on The Racehorse Who Wouldn't Gallop *A cheerful paean to books, big thighs and working hard to realise your dreams * Guardian *Funny and touching * Telegraph *There are useful human life lessons here: create a team, Balding urges, delegate, do your research, believe in yourself, and magic ensues * Observer *Will inspire girls to aim high * Daily Express *Charlie is a feisty, funny girl who will appeal to pony-mad readers who'll devour all the inside knowledge of the equine world that Balding brings to her debut * Daily Mail *

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Book Synopsis''Sharply drawn... convincingly humorous and stroppy'' - The GuardianFinding a dead body at my new school was a pretty rubbish way to start. But actually getting mixed up in the case? I was bound to get into deep, deep trouble for that!Murder comes to Hanbridge High, and three Year Seven misfits want to solve the crime:New boy Jonno hopes playing detective will convince his parents that moving to Hanbridge was a big mistake.School reporter Lydia thinks her news story will sweep everything else off the front page.And young carer Daniel needs the police to arrest the right culprit - for his mum''s sake.They may not be friends, but they''re about to become. . .The Detention Detectives.''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'' - BookTrustTrade ReviewTop-grade misbehaviour...Lis Jardine's first novel is a compelling addition to the new canon -- Imogen Russell-Williams * The Guardian *Friendship, trust, courage and determination are at the heart of this extremely funny murder-mystery tale. Featuring a hugely entertaining cast of characters, the intriguing plot is full of twists and turns, and will keep readers guessing to the very end. * BookTrust *Lis Jardine is an exiting new voice in the canon of authors brilliantly sending young readers sleuthing. The Detention Detectives is cleverly plotted, the characters quirky but convincing, the action perfectly paced. * LoveReading4Kids *The story is as funny as it is clever...The interweaving and strengthening of the bond between the three children gives emotional depth and veracity to the narrative. However, when the murder seems to be solved, there is one final twist at the end of the book which signals a further, hitherto unnoticed suspect-and, happily, the stage is firmly set for a sequel. * Books for Keeps *This brilliant detective debut really is in a class of its own...plot twists and turns to keep your mini-investigators working their little grey cells right up until the end * Lucy Brandt, author of the Leonora Bolt series *

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Book SynopsisThe pages turn themselves in this sizzling debut. Wendy Cross is relentless! Jennifer Lynn Alvarez, author of Friends Like These.Let the games begin.Every inhabitant in the Quadrant knows about The Pinnacle, a reality TV contest set on a remote planet with a five million cash prize. For three desperate entrants, winning would mean the world:Rich-girl BEX can finally leave her broken family behind.For politician's son ZANE, it's his only opportunity to save his mother.And it's outcast RAYA'S last chance at a better life.But as the competition starts, the contestants are quick to discover that this year's game has unscripted and DEADLY consequences.And the only thing they're truly competing for, is SURVIVAL.Trade ReviewThe pages turn themselves in this sizzling debut. Readers won't know who to trust as the story rockets toward a chilling conclusion they won't see coming. Wendy Cross is relentless! * Jennifer Lynn Alvarez, author of Friends Like These *

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Book SynopsisSolve the mystery with the Secret Seven - everyone''s favourite detective club! These timeless stories are perfect for young fans of mystery, adventure or detective series. Also available in audiobook! In book three, the Secret Seven have a new meeting place - a treehouse! But someone else is using it too. The gang are furious, but then they learn the intruder is in big trouble and needs their help. Can the Seven come to the rescue?Solve the mystery! Cover and inside illustrations are by the brilliant Tony Ross, illustrator of David Walliams''s books. The story was first published in 1951. This edition features the classic text and comes with a Bonus Blyton section at the back with quizzes, puzzles and other bonus extras! Enid Blyton , The Secret Seven and Enid Blyton''s signature are Registered Trademarks of Hodder and Stoughton Limited. No trademark or copyrighted material may be reproduced without the express written permission of the trad

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Book SynopsisBook Band: Grey, ideal for ages 8+An exciting detective story from Chitra Soundar, author of over 50 children's books in the UK, India and the US.Sindhu and Jeet are the best detectives in town: they solve all their cases with a dollop of observation, a dash of imagination and a whole load of legwork. And when they travel from India to England for a holiday, the detective work doesn't stop! This page-turning story is accompanied by black-and-white illustrations by Amberin Huq.The Bloomsbury Readers series is packed with book-banded stories to get children reading independently in Key Stage 2 by award-winning authors like double Carnegie Medal winner Geraldine McCaughrean and Waterstones Prize winner Patrice Lawrence. With engaging illustrations and online guided reading notes written by the Centre for Literacy in Primary Education (CLPE), this series is ideal for home and school. For more information visit www.bloomsburyreaders.com.''Any list that brings Trade ReviewAny list that brings together such a quality line up of authors is going to be welcomed … Bloomsbury Readers are aimed squarely at children in Key Stage 2 and designed to support them as they start reading independently and while they continue to gain confidence and understanding. -- Andrea Reece * Books for Keeps *Published as part of the Bloomsbury Readers collection, Sindhu and Jeet’s adventures are split into three connected stories aimed at helping to develop confidence in reading at Key Stage 2. Spreading the action between India and the UK adds interest while the use of humour, likeable characters, large print and incidental black-and-white illustrations increases accessibility and aids understanding. * Booktrust *

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Book SynopsisJustice Jones, super-smart super-sleuth, is back for her third spine-tingling adventure! For fans of Robin Stevens, Katherine Woodfine and Enid Blyton.Justice and her friends are third years now and there's an intriguing new girl in Barnowls. Letitia has never been to school before and doesn't care for the rules - and the teachers don't seem to mind! She decides that Justice is her particular friend, much to Stella and Dorothy's distress. But Letitia just isn't the kind of girl you say no to.Then, after a midnight feast in the barn, and a terrifying ghost-sighting in the garden, a girl disappears. Soon ransom notes appear, and they're torn from the pages of a crime novel.Where is the schoolgirl and who has taken her? It will take all of Justice's sleuthing to unravel this mystery!

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Book SynopsisFor Aiden, Chloe, Ava and Josh, holidays at their grandparents' cottage mean wild beaches, no curfew, Bella the dog, and most of all - adventure!While sailing their grandad's boat along the coast with her cousins, Chloe sees a terrified face at a tower window on Thorn Island. Could the face belong to recently kidnapped George, the only child of a rich local businessman? No one they tell believes there could be a child held prisoner in the tower. Certain that the villains are hiding out nearby, the cousins must use all their skills and cunning to conduct a daring rescue.Fleur Hitchcock is famous for her excellent "thrillers for beginners". This action-packed series takes 7+ readers on fantastic, realistic adventures.Cover illustration by Tom Clohosy Cole.Don't miss the other Clifftoppers adventures!The Arrowhead Moor AdventureThe Fire Bay AdventureThe Frost Castle AdventureLook out for Fleur Hitchcock's stories for older readers:Dear ScarlettSaving SophiaMurder In MidwinterMurder At TwilightThe Boy Who Flew

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Book SynopsisA comic/graphic novel series for 5+ following the adventures of Peggy the dog, who – when she enters Tangletree Woods on her walk every day – takes up her position as investigator of mysteries.Beyond the park and deep in the woods is a world of surprises. Here Peggy the dog has a secret life of mystery and investigation amongst the twisty trees and strange townsfolk of Tangletree.No problem is too perplexing, no puzzle too small. Along with her faithful sidekick, Stu the shrew, Peggy finds all sorts of ways to help her friends.Join Peggy and Stu in these colourful comic mysteries in the world of Tangletree.

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Book SynopsisJoin Peggy the dog and her faithful sidekick, Stew the shrew, as they go on TWO brilliant adventures in Tangletree! This colourfully illustrated comic series is perfect for fans of Narwhal and Jelly.Peggy the dog has a secret... every day, during her walk in the park, she scampers into Tangletree Wood and becomes a brilliant detective! No mystery is too tricky to solve for Peggy and her faithful sidekick, Stu. Join them for these two twisty adventures.Case 1: Trumpet TroubleIt''s the day of the Tangletree Spring Dance and the town band is desperate to play. But the trumpet-player''s trumpet has developed a life of its own and has run off into the forest! Can Peggy and Stu catch it, discover why it''s moving, and save the Spring Dance?Case 2: Cake CrimesTangletree has a visitor: a pop-up bakery with the most delicious cakes. So delicious, the townsfolk can''t stop eating them. And so sweet, they''re giving everyone t

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Book SynopsisAlice Éclair, Spy Extraordinaire will whisk you away on a fabulous adventure, full of daring action and delicious cakes!Baker by day, spy by night - Alice Éclair leads an exciting double life!On a glamorous movie set at the Palace of Versailles, someone is leaking national secrets. Is it the American director with the shady past, or the flamboyant lead actress whose Renaissance wig is full of secrets? Or is it someone so devious, Alice hasn't even noticed them? Whoever it is, this person has a deadly plan...Armed with a light sponge mix and an airy disregard for danger, Alice Éclair is on the case! And she'll need to use every trick in her recipe book to survive this mission... A Sprinkling of Danger is Alice's third adventure and can be read as a stand-alone novel, or enjoyed as part of the Alice Éclair, Spy Extraordinaire series. Look out for Alice's other missions, A Recipe for Trouble and A Spoonful of Spying!Perfect for fans of Robin Stevens' Murder Most Unladylike series and M.G. Leonard and Sam Sedgman's Adventures on Trains series.

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Book SynopsisI am how I've always been.My name is Auden Dare.I am eleven years old. Auden Dare has an unusual perspective on life: he cannot see in colour. He's always had this rare condition - and life is beginning to get harder for Auden. The war for water that is raging across the world is getting a little closer all the time. It hardly rains any more, anywhere. Everyone is thirsty all the time, and grubby, and exhausted. Auden has to learn to live without his father, who is away fighting, and has had to move to a new town with his mother, and start a new school, where everyone thinks he's a weirdo. But when he meets Vivi Rookmini, a smiling girl bright with cleverness, his hopes begin to lift. It soon becomes clear to Auden, though, that there are some strange things afoot in his new hometown. He and his mother have moved into the old cottage of his recently-dead uncle Jonah Bloom - a scientist and professor at the university. The place is in disarray - and although Auden's mother tells him it's because Jonah was a messy old thing, Auden knows differently. Someone else did this - someone who was looking for something of Jonah's. Auden had heard too that Jonah was working on something that could cure Auden's condition - could this be it? Then Auden and Vivi make an extraordinary discovery. Hidden away under the shed at the bottom of Jonah's garden is an engimatic and ingenious robot, who calls himself Paragon. A talking, walking, human-like robot. Apparently built by Jonah - but why? The answer to this will take Auden and Vivi on a thrilling journey of discovery as they seek to find out just what exactly Paragon is - and what link he has to Auden - and find that the truth is bigger and more wonderful than either of them could have imagined.Trade ReviewFresh, original, funny and moving * The Bookbag *Zillah Bethell's writing is terrifically engaging, confident and highly entertaining. I found it nigh-on impossible to guess the ending which was met with tears of joy. A thoroughly enjoyable read, I was totally involved throughout - in turn laughing out loud, and biting my nails; wincing with every threat and grinning inside with every glimmer of hope * Family Bookworms *A captivating, futuristic adventure about friendship, family and hope. A wonderful gift and perfect for book club discussion * South Wales Evening Post *A war story like no other. A mystery story that keeps you guessing on every page. A sci-fi story of friendship, family and unity. This book has it all! While aimed at 8-12 year olds in my opinion, I would recommend this book to anyone as a fantastic read, however, I think it would also make an excellent class read aloud and would prompt many topical discussions. This book genuinely exceeded all of my expectations * Reading Zone *a thought provoking novel and a definite must for those that like mystery, intrigue and science elements. * Munchkin Megan *I loved this book. It is extremely funny, but also very moving. It made me think about our own society, and the value of friendship. * Scoop Magazine *

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Book SynopsisThe Mona Lisa, the most famous painting in the world, has been stolen from the Louvre museum in Paris. Can Secret Agent Jack Stalwart find it before an evil thief takes it out of the country, never to be seen again?Trade ReviewThe Jack Stalwart books have been a great weapon in the bookseller's armoury for hooking reluctant readers. Now re-launched, they are set to reach a much wider audience of young readers who want a piece of the secret-agent action -- Sarah Moore * Publishing News *For sheer excitment, far-flung adventure and great gadgets, the Jack Stalwart series is the favourite in our house -- Maeve McLoughlin * Sunday Business Post *

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Book Synopsis'Compelling debut. Introduces a significant new voice--has something of the shock effect of Piers Torday's There May Be a Castle and the raw force of Patrick Ness's A Monster Calls.' SUNDAY TIMES CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE WEEK.'An astonishing exploration of grief and love and wildness.' Hilary McKay. A tale of loss that is also a gripping thriller, a realistic study of grief that skirts the margins of fantasy, it walks wolf-like between worlds and genres. Richard Lambert writes with a poet's eye; he has created something magical here. The storytelling is as bold, sinewy and uncompromising as the beast that shadows Lucas in the mountains above his home. This is a wonderful read and the advent of an exciting new voice in children's fiction. JONATHAN STROUD; A stunning, special debut about love and loss and how the wildness can save us. CHELSEY FLOOD; A smart chilling page-turner that kept me guessing right up to the end. HAYLEY LONG An insightful novel about bereavement, but also about what growing up might involve in a world that actually needs wolves. The Wolf Road is exciting, necessary reading. MONIZA ALVI; Moving, menacing, written with cinematic clarity .ANDREW COWANTrade ReviewTIMES, FINANCIAL TIMES AND GUARDIAN BEST BOOKS OF 2020. 'Masterly, phenomenally poised.'. Financial Times. 'A writer to watch, Lambert's award-winning poetic pedigree stands out in the sparse, gut-punch power of his language.' Guardian. 'One of the most stunning books I've read in years.An astonishing exploration of grief and love and wildness.' Hilary McKay. 'A passionately told story of loss, pain, growing up and adventure to haunt any reader's imagination. Michele Roberts 'A tale of loss that is also a gripping thriller. Bold, sinewy and uncompromising.'JONATHAN STROUD 'A stunning, special debut about love and loss and how the wildness can save us.'CHELSEY FLOOD 'A smart chilling page-turner that kept me guessing right up to the end.'HAYLEY LONG 'Moving, menacing, written with cinematic clarity.' ANDREW COWAN 'A sharp, hard, modern story of a young man's losses and loves.' MARK COCKER 'This is an insightful novel about bereavement, but also about what growing up might involve in a world that actually needs wolves.' MONIZA ALVI

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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...Can you keep a secret? . . . Astrid doesn't tell anyone about the strange things her Buddytronic doll has been up to. Kara convinces a Pizzaplex employee no one will know if he lets her spend a little more time in the VR attraction. And a Fazbear Entertainment engineer's custom project has surprises in store for anyone who encounters it. But in the world of Five Nights at Freddy's, secrets never stay hidden for long . . .In this sixth volume, Five Nights at Freddy''s creator Scott Cawthon spins three sinister novella-length tales from uncharted corners of his series'' canon. In the world of Five Nights at Freddy''s, everything comes with a price to pay.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 SynopsisTo most of us, the world in which we live seems well-traversed - explored in all directions and meticulously mapped. But something unbelievable has escaped us all... an entire continent named Terra Ultima. This extraordinary book documents this strange new world for the very first time.A visual sensation over a decade in the making, Terra Ultima is the life work of explorer Raoul Deleo. With the help of fellow explorer and biologist Noah J. Stern, Deleo's findings were compiled into this very book - a collection of illustrations and notes so wonderful they seem unbelievable. All of them bear witness to the discovery of a continent so large, so rich and diverse in wildlife, that it remains a mystery as to why it has never been discovered before.Deleo's findings have now been made public for the very first time, so you too, dear reader, can share in the discovery of this previously unknown part of the world. Welcome to Terra U

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Book SynopsisThe bestselling and highly illustrated children''s books series, soon to be hitting screens everywhere as an animated film and TV show with Nickelodeon and produced by James Corden.Ever wonder why pigeons always act so weird? It's because they're out there chasing the bad guys and saving your butts!Did you know your city is protected by a secret squad of crime-fighting pigeons? It''s true! With master of disguise Rock Pigeon, bendy Tumbler, strong Frillback and super-finder Homey, the REAL PIGEONS will solve any mystery and fight any bad guy to keep the city safe!In their first adventure, Rock and his mystery-solving friends will tackle their first caseload: Why have all the breadcrumbs disappeared? Who on earth is kidnapping bats? And can the pigeons avert a dinner disaster??Perfect for readers aged 6+ and fans of Pamela Butchart, DogMan, the Naughtiest Unicorn and Hotel Flamingo.Trade Review‘These are fast moving tales, highly illustrated with black and white illustrations that move the stories along at a madcap pace. Young emerging readers will power through the book giving them confidence and a huge slice of fun as they read ‘a proper chapter book’. Funny books for this age group are always very welcome – and this one (the start of a series) – is so well done I am sure children will lap them up’ – lovereadingforkids.co.uk ‘A goofball farce… this episodic volume offers two other cases for the crime-busting birdies, and young readers will make quick work of them all. Totally coo!', Kirkus Reviews

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Book SynopsisCosy crime meets magical mystery in the new story from the bestselling author of The Last Chance Hotel, Nicki Thornton! 'Blending magical adventure with Golden Age crime mystery, this delightfully atmospheric spin-off from the author of The Last Chance Hotel confirms Thornton’s place as one of the most original children’s writers around.' WATERSTONES on THE HOWLING HAG MYSTERY MAGIC MUST NEVER BE MISUSED . . . When a nosy stranger arrives in her riverside town, school reporter Veena Vale becomes suspicious. But only talking back cat Nightshade will listen to her. To find out the truth of what's going on, the two of them must unravel an ancient curse, tell uncomfortable lies and bake an awful lots of flapjacks . . . A magical murder mystery story perfect for fans of Robin Stevens and Harry Potter By the author of The Last Chance Hotel, chosen as Waterstones Book of the Month and nominated for the CILIP Carnegie Award Follows on from The Howling Hag Mystery and The Poisoned Pie Mystery; a series starring fan-favourite Nightshade the cat as the star of her very own mystery! Praise for THE LAST CHANCE HOTEL: 'A jolly, atmospheric mystery.' THE TIMES 'All kinds of fun' THE OBSERVER '[A] mash-up of murder mystery and fantasy … full of great characters, plot twists and intriguing detail.' METRO 'Featuring magical antics, a talking cat and a locked-room murder mystery, Seth’s story reads like an old-school whodunnit with added wizards and spells' BOOKTRUST

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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 carefully adapted versions are shorter with the language targeted at upper-intermediate learners (CEF level B2).Each reader includes:Audio with a reading of the adapted storyHelpful notes on charactersCultural and historical notes relevant to the plotA glossary of the more difficult wordsRoger Ackroyd is a man who knows too much.He knows the woman he loved poisoned her first husband. He knows someone was blackmailing her and now he knows she killed herself.When Roger Ackroyd is found murdered, the famous Belgiandetective, Hercule Poirot, is called in to find out who the killer is.Trade Review‘As a teacher using the Amazing People ELT Readers in an Extensive Reading Project, I’m as happy as my students are: motivating topics/real people, interesting facts and a great alternative to Graded Reader fiction. Having said that, the same class is also reading books from the Agatha Christie series, and enjoying them very much. Their Reading Diaries are full of questions, speculation about who-dunnit and comments about “unputdownability”. The buzz in the classroom when we’re swopping books is tangible.’Hania Bociek, Zürich, Switzerland

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Book SynopsisFollow London's newest detective, Enola Holmes, in her thrilling sixth adventure - from the series that inspired the films, starring Millie Bobby Brown. Read them all before the next film lands!Enola Holmes - sister of the world's most famous detective, Sherlock Holmes - always has an eye for mystery-solving.Trade ReviewExciting and adventurous! * Millie Bobby Brown *Flat-out among the best mysteries being written for young people today. * Booklist, starred review *Enola's most dangerous case yet!...This is Enola Holmes at her best! * Indie Next *Enola, the quintessential spunky heroine, navigates the historical setting with the pluck of Nancy Drew but within the constraints of her upbringing. * Horn Book *

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Book SynopsisMeet Dorothy Constance Mae Louise, or Dot as she prefers to be called!Dot loves super-sour apple sherberts, running fast and puzzles especially if they're fiendishly tricky. And with the help of trusty sidekick, Beans and TOP DOG, McClusky, she is always ready to sniff out a mystery. So when meangirl Laura seems set on sabotaging the school talent show, Dot is determined to find out how, and save the day

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Book SynopsisIt is the summer holiday and Joe Robinson and his cousins are staying with their granny in Muddlemoor village. The problem is . . . Muddlemoor is a hotspot for crime. When Granny’s precious cake recipe goes missing days before the Great Village Bake Off, Joe, Tom and Pip are FLABBERGASTED. They KNOW that one of the neighbours has stolen it but the question is, WHO?Trade Review"'Forget Midsomer, Muddlemoor Village is a proper crime hotspot... The hunt for the missing recipe unfolds wonderfully and there’s a twist at the end that Agatha Christie would be proud of. Marta Kissi’s illustrations are really lovely too'" -- Andrea Reece * Lovereading *"A really fun mystery for younger readers that shows how much trouble children can get themselves into when their imaginations run wild... an entertaining start to what I believe is a new series that I'm sure will be popular in libraries" -- Cathy Petersen - Librarian * Netgalley *"A brilliant children's mystery story. Ruth Quayle has captured the essence of childhood when life is one big adventure... light-hearted and full of experience children can relate to... readers are going to absolutely love this story and I can't wait to share it with children" -- Kate Heap * Netgalley *"A great, short chapter book for lower KS2. Children will be able to identify with the characters and will see the humour in some of the situations the cousins get themselves into. I can't wait to read more in this series" -- Denise Forrest - Educator * Netgalley *"Full of fun and adventure, this is an exciting mystery that children will love being a part of! Quayle has written a humorous tale perfect for children 7+" -- Emily Weston * The Teacher Bookworm *

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Book SynopsisSurvivor is a dangerously explosive thriller from bestselling author Tom Hoyle, author of Thirteen and Spiders.People are dying. One mysterious death on the Ultimate Bushcraft adventure holiday is tragic. But when a second, and then a third person dies, something suspicious is going on . . . But who can you trust when everyone around you is a suspect? As numbers dwindle, the chances of survival plummet. Staying alive has never seemed so guilty. Nobody is safe.Perfect for fans of Michael Grant.

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Book Synopsis* THREE CASES IN ONE: Secrets Can Kill, Deadly Intent and Murder on Ice feature eighteen-year-old Nancy with fast-paced plots and endless mystery.

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Book SynopsisMystery-lover Libby is excited but nervous when she's sent to live with her aunt while her mother is working abroad. Aunt Agatha is the headmistress of an extraordinary travelling school that moves from country to country. Libby joins it in Paris, where she is just starting to find her feet when her aunt is arrested, accused of a daring jewel robbery. Can Libby and her new best friend Connie find the real thief and save her aunt? Illustrated by Becka Moor.

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Book SynopsisA smart, twisty whodunnit from from the author of the scandalous SUDDENLY A MURDER. Perfect for fans of Karen McManus and Holly Jackson.THE DEAD BODY SHOULD HAVE BEEN FAKE. BUT IT WASN'T. NOW THERE'S ALL TO PLAY FOR . . .For decades, J. Everett High has staged an annual murder mystery to put its criminology students to the test. And this year, crime junkie Dulce Castillo is dead set on winning. Soon, the game kicks off, and the student playing the victim, Xavier Torres, is found poisoned in the school's greenhouse . . . except his death isn't pretend.IT'S MURDER.When the authorities open an investigation, all the evidence points to Sierra Fox, Xavier's ex-girlfriend and Dulce's ex-best friend. Claiming innocence and desperate to clear her name, Sierra begs Dulce to look past their bad blood and find the culprit.After all, Dulce knows this school better than any investigator ever could, but she'll have to use caution to solve this mystery. Because these historic halls are full of suspects with no shortage of motives. And the game has turned deadly . . .

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Book SynopsisThe adaptation of his genre-busting, award-winning Artemis Fowl series has been a labour of love for lifelong graphic novel fan Eoin Colfer, and Andrew Donkin. Art by Giovanni Rigano and colour by Paolo Lamanna.Evil pixie, Opal Koboi, is back and she''s more dangerous than ever. This time she doesn''t just want power over the fairy People - this time she wants the humans too. Captain Holly Short is the only fairy with a hope of stopping her, but as Holly knows, it takes one genius criminal mastermind to fight another. But the 14-year-old genius that Holly is thinking of doesn''t even remember that fairies exist. How is she going to convince Artemis Fowl to help her stop Opal? Gold usually does the trick, and this time is should be no different. Or is Artemis changing?Trade ReviewArtemis is a brilliant creation * Antony Horowitz *Wickedly brilliant * Independent *A huge hit * Guardian *

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Book SynopsisCharlie and the Chocolate Factory meets A Night in the Museum in this the action-packed New York Times bestseller from Chris Grabenstein, coauthor of I Funny and other bestselling series with James Patterson!Kyle Keeley is a huge fan of all games - board games, word games, and particularly video games. His hero, Luigi Lemoncello, the most famous and creative gamemaker in the world, is the genius behind the town''s new library that is as much a home for tech and trickery as it is for stories. Kyle wins a spot at a puzzle-packed lock-in on the library''s opening night. But when morning comes, the doors stay locked. Kyle and the other kids must solve every clue and figure out every secret riddle to find the hidden escape route . . . !Trade ReviewFull of puzzles to think about, puns to groan at and references to children's book titles, this solid, tightly plotted read is a winner for readers and game-players alike * Kirkus *An ode to libraries and literature that is a worthy successor to the original madman puzzle-master himself, Willy Wonka * Booklist *A marvel * Publishers Weekly *

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Book SynopsisWelcome to the page-turning, twisty, gasp-inducing world of the Debutantes - an addictive YA mystery duology from the author of #1 bestselling, TikTok sensation INHERITANCE GAMES series. ''A plot twist every twenty pages . . . Barnes is at her page-turning best.'' E. Lockhart, author of We Were Liars Be careful where you bury your secrets . . . Reluctant debutante Sawyer Taft joined Southern high society for one reason and one reason alone: to identify and locate her biological father. But the answers Sawyer found during her debutante year only left her with more questions and one potentially life-ruining secret. When her cousin Lily ropes her into joining a mysterious and elite secret society called the White Gloves, Sawyer soon discovers that someone in the group''s ranks may have the answers she''s looking for. Things are looking up . . . until Sawyer and the White Gloves make a disturbing discovery near the family''s summer home - and uncover a twisted secret, decades in the making.Shocking twists, family secrets, a fish-out-of water protagonist and a page-turning mystery combine in Little White Lies and Deadly Little Scandals (The Debutantes Duology) - perfect for fans coming from THE INHERITANCE GAMES series looking for their next addictive read from the Master of YA Mysteries, Jennifer Lynn Barnes. Trade ReviewA plot twist every twenty pages and characters as devious as they are southern-belle glamorous . . . Barnes is at her page-turning best. -- E. LockhartPage-turning tension, witty humour, and a mystery that will keep you guessing . . . Barnes at her best. -- Jennifer L. Armentrout

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Book SynopsisDamian's dad has turned Queen's evidence and the family have moved to a cramped flat in a run-down council estate. So when Damian - sorry, FINN - meets costumed superhero Star Kid, who is on a mission to help free the estate from a local gangster's rule, Damian is forced to ask himself: who is he really, and what does it really mean to be a hero?

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Book SynopsisPack your bags, we're going on a road trip, in the third hilarious mystery in the award-winning Anisha, Accidental Detective series!Milo and I have been looking forward to this half-term for what feels like FOREVER - we're finally going to the National Space Centre, to meet a real-life space engineer!My whole family wanted to tag along and visit a festival first, where this super-famous, mega-expensive diamond is on display. But guess what? The diamond has been STOLEN! And the police think MY GRANNY did it so she's in serious TROUBLE. Someone needs to prove Granny Jas is innocent, so it looks like Milo and I might need to go UNDERCOVER. It's lucky I'm Anisha, Accidental Detective!Praise for the Anisha, Accidental Detective series:Winner of the Sainsbury's Children's Book Prize and of the Crimefest Best Crime Novel for ChildrenShortlisted for the Blue Peter Book Award, the British Book Awards Children's Book of the Year, and the Laugh Out Loud Book AwardDELIGHTFUL! Perfect for younger dTrade ReviewThis fun-filled adventure is easy to read, and one that children will love diving into. * Eastern Eye *Share all the fun, action and mystery that are never far away when the Mistry family are on the move. * Lancashire Evening Post *

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Book SynopsisShortlisted for CrimeFest Awards' Best Crime Novel for Children 2019When Viv has a fight with Noah, she doesn't think it'll be the last time she sees him. But when she gets back from school, he's nowhere to be found and there are police cars everywhere, lights flashing and sirens blaring.Viv is sure Noah's run away to get attention. But it's really cold, and getting dark, and the rain just won't stop falling. So she sets off to look for him, furious at his selfishness, as the floodwaters rise. And then she finds him, and realises that a much more dangerous story is unfolding around them...From the author of Dear Scarlett, Saving Sophia and Murder in Midwinter"The story creeps in on you like darkness at dusk - a truly intriguing mystery!" - Chris Bradford, author of the Young Samurai series

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Book SynopsisJoin Peggy the dog and her faithful sidekick, Stew the shrew, as they go on TWO brilliant adventures in Tangletree! This colourfully illustrated comic series is perfect for fans of Narwhal and Jelly.Peggy the dog has a secret... every day, during her walk in the park, she scampers into Tangletree Wood and becomes a brilliant detective! No mystery is too tricky to solve for Peggy and her faithful sidekick, Stu. Join them for two twisty adventures.Case 1: Tangletree HooterThe woods around Tangletree are filled with strange creatures. But what keeps making the loud HOOTing sound echoing among the trees? Some of the townsfolk think it''s a monster. Are they right? Only Peggy and Stu can find out!Case 2: VegetroubleIt''s time for the Tangletree Annual Veg Growing Contest, and the townsfolk are getting VERY competitive. But things take a weird turn when the cucumbers explode, the potatoes float and the carrots go crazy! Can Peggy and Stu solve this mystery? An ideal graphic novel series for readers starting to enjoy stories independently, visual readers and aspiring mystery solvers! And watch out for even more Tangletree mysteries, in Peggy and Stu Investigate and Peggy and Stu Play the Wrong Notes!

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Book SynopsisAgent Harrier is thrilled to be back for his third secret spy mission, but his excitement is quashed when he discovers HOLES in his precious book. These aren't just ordinary holes, they're PLOT HOLES, and they transport Agent Harrier to different dimensions - first he finds himself in a fairy tale, then a detective novel, then a sci-fi adventure. If Agent Harrier doesn't find the hole-making culprit soon, none of his books will make sense and the whole series will be doomed! Luckily, he has a plot-hole expert in the shape of his trusty friend Mole to help him out. But what if Mole turns out to be . . . THE MOLE?!!!!Readers will double-take at this stylishly metafictional follow-up to This Book Will Self-Destruct and You Only Spy Twice.

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Book SynopsisIt's Easter time. Spid is excited about chocolate eggs and a very special cake - until he notices that carrots and lettuces are vanishing from his vegetable patch. How could they just disappear? Is there a vegetable thief at work? As he investigates, Spid must be as cleverley as Cleverley Evaleigh to solve the mystery. Features 2 songs: 'We're Sorry' and 'Wabbit'. The book includes QR codes that take readers to musical versions of the song. You can also find music videos of the songs at https://spidthespider.com and https://www.youtube.com/spidthespider. Spid is a lowly spider, who wants to better himself, write songs, and marry his girlfriend Bid, though he is prone to hilarious mishaps mostly of his own making. He is hard-working, cool, and a role model for young children. As well as encouraging children to read and love books, Spid's adventures also teach valuable life lessons, including determination and what psychologists call a 'growth mindset' (desire to better oneself and succeed), the importance of friendship, and sustainability. With very creative prose, Spid's adventures are fun for parents, and teachers to read to, and with, their children. They present lots of opportunities to invest dramatic licence thus helping adults and children interact and engage. The humour works at multiple levels from silly and slapstick to more sophisticated wordplay and concepts. Thus, children will discover more and enjoy reading the stories multiple times. For more parent and teacher resources to accompany the book and help children learn to read, grow and succeed in life, go to https://spidthespider.com/parent-teacher-resourcesTrade ReviewReading Spid's delightful tale is an absolute joy. Filled with humour and relatable mishaps, the book provides a heartwarming and engaging experience for both children and adults. The interactive elements, including catchy songs also add a lively dimension to the storytelling. Kimmy Chhabra, Always on Books (@she_reads_and_promote/) “A charming Easter adventure with an engaging narrative that is as entertaining as it is educational. It takes young readers on a journey filled with humour, curiosity, and valuable life lessons.” Emilee Jackson, @read.with.emilee

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Book SynopsisMarti Dumas is a mom, teacher, writer, and creative entrepreneur from New Orleans. An expert in childhood literacy, Marti has worked with children and teachers across the country for the last 15 years to promote an early love of reading both in and out of the classroom. Her best-selling Jaden Toussaint, the Greatest series combines literacy with STEM skills and humor, and adds much-needed diversity to the children's chapter book landscape. Her latest book, Wildseed Witch, is a middle-grade fantasy that is already being heralded for its skillful combination of technology, history, and magic.

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Book SynopsisA sweeping adventure filled with a hidden island, family secrets, shocking betrayals, amazing music, and girl power, by iconic Spice Girl, songwriter and author Geri Halliwell-Horner.

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