Children’s / Teenage fiction: Crime and mystery fiction

Book SynopsisThe second book in The Trapdoor Mysteries, a series about Tally, a code-breaking, animal-loving servant girl and her best friend, a squirrel named Squill, who solve mysteries with the help of a secret library...Orphan Tally is the servant girl at Mollett Manor - and she's also the Secret Keeper of the magical library hidden beneath a trapdoor, underneath the manor's grounds. Along with Squill the squirrel, she uses the enchanted books to solve crimes. So when Lady Mollett's new puppy, Widdles, is kidnapped, Tally and Squill head straight to the library. But will they be able to catch the dognapper or is it already too late?Trade ReviewThis series is just right to get young readers, boys and girls, hooked on the mystery genre. [...] Well written with a good level of suspense, this is an excellent series. * Parents in Touch *

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Book SynopsisThe Clockwork Sparrow meets Downton AbbeyWhen Rose Raventhorpe's beloved butler is found (gasp!) murdered in the hallway of her own house, she's determined to uncover the culprit. Especially since he's the third butler to die in a week! Rose's investigation leads her on a journey into a hidden world of grave robbers and duelling butlers, flamboyant magicians and the city's ancient feline guardians. Knives aren't just for cutting cucumber sandwiches, you know . . .Trade ReviewGrave robbers, magicians and ancient feline guardians will keep young readers gripped. * South Wales Evening Post *Fun to read, this is a sprightly told tale of murder and trickery with a twisty plot and a cast of unlikely characters led by the smart and determined Rose Raventhorpe. -- Julia Eccleshare * Love Reading 4 Kids - Julia Eccleshare's Pick of the Month *...for me, the stand-out element is the amount of humour in the story - caricatures abound from the butlers and their gloves, to Emily, Rose's friend in mourning. A historical giggle with darkness and magic. * Minerva Reads *This stunning debut by Australian author Janine Beacham is definitely one for the curious, who love stories that are a little dark and a little different * Read it Daddy *This is an unputdownable, exciting first book in a new series: Rose Raventhope Investigates, full of surprises and seeped in Victorian atmosphere with interesting, well-rounded characters. It will keep you guessing to the very end. -- Debbie Williams * Primary Times *This is a funny, page turner of a book... * Making Them Readers *

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Book SynopsisThe Clockwork Sparrow meets Downton AbbeyIt's a bitterly cold winter in Yorke and Rose Raventhorpe and her butler Heddsworth are stuck with Rose's unpleasant cousin Herbert, and his equally horrible butler, Bixby. When an orphan boy named Orpheus interrupts the Cathedral's Mistletoe Service, saying that his sister has been kidnapped, Rose vows to help. Solving the mystery will be a lot better than accompanying ghastly Herbert! But the investigation is more complicated than Rose has anticipated and will lead her and her butler friends through fancy tea-rooms, horrible factories, secret underground passages and more... Fireplace pokers are much more dangerous than you might imagine . . .Trade ReviewI love this book because of the adventures Rose gets up to! -- Azra, aged 9 * Reading Zone - Child Review *This is an excellent addition to the popular genre of historical mysteries for children. Excellently plotted, with realistic and well-rounded characters. * Parents in Touch *

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Book SynopsisThe Clockwork Sparrow meets Downton AbbeyThe city of Yorke is in a panic. There's been a murder! Is an ancient ghost-hound called the Barghest on the loose?ROSE RAVENTHORPE, her friend Orpheus and the secret society of butlers search for clues in the dark, eerie skitterways, on the mist-covered moors, and atop the ancient walls of the city. Rose believes that the villain is human, and she's determined to prove it.There's no sweeping this crime under the carpet...Trade ReviewI love the evocative atmosphere and the quirky cast of characters. * Parents in Touch *Rose is an excellent detective, I loved the more prominent role Orpheus was able to play in this book, and the butlers were as magnificent as ever. [...] I'm very hopeful this won't be the last I see of Rose, Orpheus and the Silvercrest Hall butlers, as I think this series is super underrated, but if it is, this was an excellent conclusion. * Hounds and Hauntings *This is an excellent addition to the popular genre of historical mysteries for children. Excellently plotted, with realistic and well-rounded characters. * Parents in Touch *

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Book SynopsisThis thrilling novel from the author of the New York Times bestselling paranormal mystery Jackaby series pits R.F. Jackaby, an investigator of the unexplainable and his new assistant, Abigail Rook, against a supernatural serial killer. Newly arrived in New Fiddleham, New England, 1892, and in need of a job, Abigail Rook meets R. F. Jackaby, an investigator of the unexplained with a keen eye for the extraordinary--including the ability to see supernatural beings. Abigail has a gift for noticing ordinary but important details, which makes her perfect for the position of Jackaby's assistant. On her first day, Abigail finds herself in the midst of a thrilling case: A serial killer is on the loose. The police are convinced it's an ordinary villain, but Jackaby is certain the foul deeds are the work of the kind of creature whose very existence the local police seem adamant to deny.While Abigail finds herself drawn to Jackaby's keen intelligence and his sensitivity to phenomena others barely perceive, her feelings are confused by the presence of Charlie, a handsome young policeman willing to help Jackaby and Abigail on the case. But is Charlie's offer a sincere desire to be of service, or is some darker motive at work?

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Book SynopsisWhen her governess inherits an estate on a Scottish island, amateur detective Myrtle Hardcastle couldn't be more excited. Unfortunately, the ancestral castle is both run-down and haunted. Ghostly moans echo in the walls, and there are rumours of a cursed treasure lost on the island-an ancient silver brooch that may have cost the former lord his life. But who had the motive, means, and opportunity to kill him? And could this Scottish trip mean the end of Myrtle's plans to get her father and governess together?Then Myrtle's investigation stirs a villain out of hiding. The estate's boat is stolen, so there's no escape from the island. Myrtle is forced to play a deadly game, hunting for the brooch with a thief breathing down her neck-someone who will stop at nothing to get the treasure, even if it means murder.

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Book SynopsisLeila Beal and her little dog, Nugget, are back in this third and final installment of Leila & Nugget Mysteries. Leila, Kait, and their dogs are on a mission to rescue the missing Red Dogs' team mascot.This year’s Bark at the Park event at the Middleburg Red Dogs baseball stadium could not have gotten off to a worse start. The first pitch hasn’t even been thrown yet, and there’s already been a furry intruder, a dog stampede, and a kidnapped mascot. Now it’s up to Leila and Kait, along with their dogs Nugget and Baxter, to rescue Red Dogs’ mascot and save Bark at the Park. It’s a race to solve the mystery before the final out!

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Book SynopsisJoin a group of four kid detectives and help them find out about STEM while developing problem solving, observation and deduction, and investigating skills.Our four detectives, Farah, Amelia, Mohammad and Sam, have entered an inter-school quiz competition. They need to study and prepare if they want to win. They meet the new librarian, who they soon find out is a robot powered by Artificial Intelligence! But something is wrong with her code...Join the detectives as they learn how AI works. With the help of the school''s IT technician, they''ll soon figure out how to fix the librarian''s code.Featured interactive elements: - Spot the glitch in the AI''s neural network - Spot the bug in the AI''s code and correct it - Gather crucial information from fact panels about how AI worksThrough interactive adventures that combine facts, brain-teasing puzzles and lively illustrations, the books impart STEM knowledge in an ori

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Book SynopsisJoin a group of four kid detectives and help them find out about STEM while developing problem solving, observation and deduction, and investigation skills.Our four detectives, Farah, Isla, Mohammad and Sam, are having a sleepover in the treehouse when they notice a mysterious light coming from Isla''s neighbour''s garden. It looks like some of the plants are glowing! But how can this be?Join the Detective gang as they meet a botanist and a geneticist, who will help them discover more about plants, genes and DNA.Featured interactive elements:- Search and find clues in the illustrations- Gather crucial information from info panels about genetics and bioluminescence- Work out how to trick a snowdrop into flowering early and why roses have thorns- Help the geneticist correctly reorder the steps in her diagramThrough interactive adventures that combine facts, brain-teasing puzzles and lively illustrations, these books impart STEM knowledge in an original way to inspire a love of the subject. The story in each book will have the reader solving puzzles, finding clues, cracking secret codes and uncovering mysteries.Perfect for aspiring detectives aged 7+.

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Book SynopsisJoin a group of four kid detectives and help them find out about STEM while developing problem solving, observation and deduction, and investigating skills.Our four detectives, Farah, Amelia, Mohammad and Sam, have won a contest and the prize is to visit the new deep-sea lab. When they get there they are enlisted by a marine biologist to help count the population of isopods in an are of the sea floor. When they give the scientist their numbers, she tells them that it is not what she expected. The isopod population has drastically declined since the last time they were counted a week ago. What has happened? She explains to them that something may have disrupted the ecosystem and impacted food chains. As the kids go back into the submersible to take a closer look, they discover an unexpected predator and its presence may be due to the eruption of an underwater volcano heating up the sea floor.Featured interactive elements: Looking for clues i

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Book SynopsisJoin a group of four kid detectives and help them find out about STEM while developing problem solving, observation and deduction, and investigating skills.Our four detectives, Farah, Amelia, Mohammad and Sam, are excited when they see their school installing solar panels and a wind turbine. A few days later, on a sunny but windy day, the power goes out halfway through a science lesson. The kids decide to investigate why the solar panels and wind turbine are failing to provide the school with the electricity they should be generating.With the help of Isla''s mum, Luan, an engineer the four friends learn how solar and wind energy works. The children (and reader) uncover what has gone wrong and what is preventing the solar panels and wind turbine from doing what they are supposed to do. The story ends with the children figuring the fixes needed and telling their teacher.Featured interactive elements: Looking for clues in the illustrationsIdentifying tree species from a leaf Gathering crucial information from fact panels about how solar panels andwind turibines workThrough interactive adventures that combine facts, brain-teasing puzzles and lively illustrations, the books impart STEM knowledge in an original way to inspire a love of the subject. The story in each book will have the reader solving puzzles, finding clues, cracking secret codes and uncovering mysteries.Perfect for aspiring detectives aged 7+.

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Book SynopsisJoin a group of four kid detectives and help them find out about STEM while developing problem solving, observation and deduction, and investigating skills.Our four detectives, Farah, Amelia, Mohammad and Sam, have won a contest and the prize is to visit the new deep-sea lab. When they get there they are enlisted by a marine biologist to help count the population of isopods in an are of the sea floor. When they give the scientist their numbers, she tells them that it is not what she expected. The isopod population has drastically declined since the last time they were counted a week ago. What has happened? She explains to them that something may have disrupted the ecosystem and impacted food chains. As the kids go back into the submersible to take a closer look, they discover an unexpected predator and its presence may be due to the eruption of an underwater volcano heating up the sea floor.Featured interactive elements: Looking for clues in the illustrationsUnderstanding instruments used for deep sea exploration Gathering crucial information from fact panels about ecosystems in the ocean depthsThrough interactive adventures that combine facts, brain-teasing puzzles and lively illustrations, the books impart STEM knowledge in an original way to inspire a love of the subject. The story in each book will have the reader solving puzzles, finding clues, cracking secret codes and uncovering mysteries.Perfect for aspiring detectives aged 7+.

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Book SynopsisA suspenseful and spooky series, perfect for fans of Goosebumps, from bestselling duo Ally Condie and Brendan Reichs.When a bullying incident sends twelve year-old Nico Holland over the edge of a cliff into the icy waters of Still Cove, where no one ever goes, friends Tyler and Ella – and even 'cool kid' Opal – rush to his rescue . . . only to discover an island hidden in the swirling mists below. Shrouded by dense trees and murky tides, the island appears uninhabited, although the kids can't quite shake the feeling that something about it is off. As the group delves deeper into the unknown, their discoveries – and their lives – begin to intertwine in weird and spooky ways. Something ancient has awakened . . . and it knows their wishes and dreams – and their deepest secrets. Do they have what it takes to face the shadowy things that lurk within their own hearts?Continue the chilling adventure with The Beast.Trade ReviewLightning-paced action... this book really left me breathless! -- R L Stine, author of Goosebumps and Fear StreetMove over, Stranger Things . . . The Darkdeep will pull you into an irresistibly eerie world beyond your wildest dreams - and nightmares. -- Melissa de la CruzThe stakes are huge, the action high-throttle, but what readers will remember most is its big, emotional heart. . . A truly spectacular adventure. -- Soman Chainani, author of The School for Good and EvilA delicious rollicking adventure you won't be able to put down. -- Tahereh Mafi, author of Shatter MeThe Darkdeep has all the makings of a classic... this is, hands down, the most fun I've had while being deeply terrified. -- Roshani Chokshi, author of Aru Shah and the End of TimeBrimming with chilling mysteries and heart-stopping twists... I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. -- Alexandra Bracken, author of The Darkest Minds

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Book SynopsisAli Cross is back in the New York Times No. 1 sequel to James Patterson's bestselling mystery for young readers featuring the son of Detective Alex Cross, the lead character in James Patterson's biggest-selling series_____________________ALEX CROSS is a genius detective.ALI CROSS is following in his father's footsteps.When Ali sees a friend get hurt, he's the best person to find out who did it. Even if he's only a kid.After all, he's Alex Cross's son. Solving crimes runs in the family._____________________'This one will fly off the shelves.' Booklist'A fitting, socially conscious sequel.' Kirkus ReviewsTrade ReviewA fitting, socially conscious novel -- KirkusThis one will fly off the shelves. * Booklist *

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Book Synopsis“A perfect pick for kids who love Rick Riordan.” —Booklist (starred review) “A winner for all kids, but it will be especially loved by Latinx and Hispanic families.” —Kirkus Reviews (starred review) The Lightning Thief meets the Story Thieves series in this middle grade fantasy inspired by Hispanic folklore, legends, and myths from the Iberian Peninsula and Central and South America.Charlie Hernández has always been proud of his Latin American heritage. He loves the culture, the art, and especially the myths. Thanks to his abuela’s stories, Charlie possesses an almost encyclopedic knowledge of the monsters and ghouls who have spent the last five hundred years haunting the imaginations of children all across the Iberian Peninsula, as well as Central and South America. And even though his grandmother sometimes hinted that the tales might be more than mere myth, Charlie’s always been a pragmatist. Even barely out of diapers, he knew the stories were just make-believe—nothing more than intricately woven fables meant to keep little kids from misbehaving. But when Charlie begins to experience freaky bodily manifestations—ones all too similar to those described by his grandma in his favorite legend—he is suddenly swept up in a world where the mythical beings he’s spent his entire life hearing about seem to be walking straight out of the pages of Hispanic folklore and into his life. And even stranger, they seem to know more about him than he knows about himself. Soon, Charlie finds himself in the middle of an ancient battle between La Liga, a secret society of legendary mythological beings sworn to protect the Land of the Living, and La Mano Peluda (a.k.a. the Hairy Hand), a cabal of evil spirits determined to rule mankind. With only the help of his lifelong crush, Violet Rey, and his grandmother’s stories to guide him, Charlie must navigate a world where monsters and brujas rule and things he couldn’t possibly imagine go bump in the night. That is, if he has any hope of discovering what’s happening to him and saving his missing parents (oh, and maybe even the world). No pressure, muchacho.Trade Review"Filled with action with fast-paced chapters, Calejo's novel is sure to draw in readers and introduce them to the magic, beauty, and history of Hispanic myths and legends (many of which are elaborated on further in a glossary for those unfamiliar with the stories). This is a perfect pick for kids who love Rick Riordan's many series, particularly for those eager for mythologies beyond Greek and Roman stories." -- Booklist *STARRED REVIEW*"He's not the "chosen one"—but the bad guys think he is. Mexican-born, American-raised Charlie Hernández just grew horns. And feathers. It's inconvenient. All of a sudden, all the Hispanic (both Latin American and Iberian) myths he learned from his abuela leave the world of legend and reveal themselves in Miami—and everyone, good and bad, seems to be after Charlie. A winner for all kids, but it will be especially beloved by Latinx and Hispanic families who may recognize some of the characters." -- Kirkus, STARRED REVIEWThis magical adventure brings the Hispanic mythologies . . . to life . . . "the detailed attention to various Hispanic folkloric and mythological traditions is accessible to readers new to the legends as well as old hands, and this multicultural story proves to be a satisfying read for anyone interested in fantasy action." -- BCCB * October 2018 *"The story is fast paced and jam-packed with many encounters with mythological creatures loosely based on folklore from around the Spanish-speaking world. The glossary at the end is helpful with a description and country of origin for each mythological being. VERDICT A great start to a new series that will be devoured by fantasy fans who enjoy action with ample doses of mythological inspirations." -- School Library Journal * January 2019 *Texas Bluebonnet Award 2020-2021International Latino Book Awards: 2nd Place in Best Youth Chapter Fiction Book, EnglishSunshine State Young Readers Award 2020-2021 List for Grades 6-8Florida Book Awards 2018 Gold Medalist for Older Children's Literature

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Book SynopsisTemporarily retired from the GPF-Global Protection Force-and on family vacation, Jack Stalwart and his older brother, Max, are motivated to act when a band of thieves takes the Emerald Buddha from the Grand Palace in Bangkok. Without the help of the GPF, they're on their own. They're also up against one of the smartest and wealthiest villains they've ever faced. Can Jack and Max find Thailand's most precious statue before it's too late?

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Book SynopsisAn Edgar® Award Winning SeriesBefore the train has left the station, Victorian England’s most accomplished new detective already is on a suspect’s trail, and readers will be delighted to travel along. Myrtle Hardcastle has no desire to go on a relaxing travel excursion with her aunt Helena when there are More Important things to be done at home, like keeping close tabs on criminals and murder trials. Unfortunately, she has no say in the matter. So off Myrtle goes—with her governess, Miss Judson, and cat, Peony, in tow—on a fabulous private railway coach headed for the English seaside. Myrtle is thrilled to make the acquaintance of Mrs. Bloom, a professional insurance investigator aboard to protect the priceless Northern Lights tiara. But before the train reaches its destination, both the tiara and Mrs. Bloom vanish. When Myrtle arrives, she and Peony discover a dead body in the baggage car. Someone has been murdered—with Aunt Helena’s sewing shears. The trip is derailed, the local police are inept, and Scotland Yard is in no rush to arrive. What’s a smart, bored Young Lady of Quality stranded in a washed-up carnival town to do but follow the evidence to find out which of her fellow travelers is a thief and a murderer?Trade Review"Each new revelation builds upon the prior discovery until the tense, wonderfully eerie climax on a ramshackle amusement pier. The sleuthing is heartwarming and funny, featuring strong women and girls, packed with characters who genuinely care about each other. A delightful heroine and an exciting mystery."—Kirkus Reviews "Readers who enjoyed Premeditated Myrtle will rejoice in this second installment featuring the plucky protagonist, her beautiful and multitalented governess Miss Judson, Peony the cat, and a whole new cast of strong female characters. [How to Get Away with Myrtle] will delight young Sherlock Holmes aficionados. This deeply plotted sequel is an additional purchase for collections serving the most precocious readers who long for a fast-paced mystery where women shine."—School Library Journal "Bunce fully utilizes the story’s classic mystery settings (the train, a grand hotel full of unusual guests, and a small town of memorable characters) as she spiritedly chucks red herrings at readers and Myrtle alike. Humor and wit make the narrative sparkle, and, happily, Myrtle is as irrepressible as ever.”—BooklistPraise for Premeditated Myrtle:A 2021 Edgar Award Nominee, Best JuvenileA BookPage Best Book of 2020: Middle Grade A Mighty Girl's 2020 Books of the Year "A joyful thing to behold. Set in Victorian England, this mystery gleefully overturns sexist norms and celebrates independent women of intellect, with Myrtle Hardcastle leading the charge." —Booklist, starred review "Bunce crafts a truly captivating murder mystery, throwing in a delicious mix of twists, red herrings, and relatives excluded from the family fortune. Myrtle is an entertaining protagonist, not afraid to get her hands dirty, sneak into mansions after dark to find a clue, or call out sexism of men toward her scientific interests or the racism toward her governess. The book will make readers yearn for more of Myrtle's (mis)adventures." —Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books "A saucy, likable heroine shines in a mystery marked by clever, unexpected twists." —Kirkus Reviews "[A] clever and lively Victorian English village murder mystery... Bunce does an excellent job of making Myrtle the lead actor but gives her a strong set of (mostly female) supporters." —The Horn Book "In the tradition of heroines like Flavia de Luce and Harriet the Spy, Myrtle is a fine example of the Victorian scientific female-smart, inquisitive and fearless. Written with a terrific mixture of humor and suspense, Premeditated Myrtle is a perfect read for any budding detective." —Rhys Bowen, New York Times bestselling author of the Her Royal Spyness series

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Book SynopsisMika is not your average twelve-year-old—and she’s about to prove it. It’s 1880, and in the frigid city of Stockholm, death lurks around every corner. Twelve-year-old Mika knows that everyone in her orphanage will struggle to survive this winter. But at least the notorious serial killer the Night Raven is finally off the streets…or is he? Mika is shocked when a newborn baby is left at the orphanage in the middle of the night, by a boy with a cryptic message. Who is he? And who is this “Dark Angel” he speaks of? When a detective shows up, Mika senses something even more sinister is going on. Drawn in by Mika’s unique ability to notice small details—a skill Mika has always used to survive—the gruff Detective Hoff unwittingly recruits her to help him with his investigation into a gruesome murder. Mika knows she should stay far, far away, and yet…with such little hope for her future, could this be an opportunity? Maybe, just maybe, this is Mika’s chance to be someone who matters.Trade Review“This gripping, fast-paced mystery comes together well, with Mika’s deductions based firmly in logic and connections based in her own clear observations…A thrilling and thoughtful period murder mystery.” —Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “Mika is a brave, resourceful heroine, and her warm relationships with Valdemar and her peers at the orphanage counterbalance the bleak backdrop.” —Publishers Weekly “Originally published in Sweden, the novel ends with justice done and, for Mika, a newfound sense of purpose. While not every mystery introduced is solved, this is only the first volume in the Moonwind Mysteries series.” —Booklist “Thoroughly 'kid friendly' in tone, style, and presentation, The Night Raven is a Moonwind Mystery written by Swedish author Johan Rundberg and ably translated into English for young American readers ages 10-14 by Annie Prime. This 'whodunnit' mystery is fully entertaining and highly recommended.” —Midwest Book Review “This English translation of Rundberg’s lively historical mystery…is something to celebrate…Joyous, funny, suspenseful, and serious—an unusual and winning combination for middle-grade readers. Let’s hope its three sequels appear in [A. A.] Prime’s English translation, too.” —The Horn Book (starred review) “Middle-school-age historical mystery fans will appreciate the fast-moving story and intriguing setting, as well as the splashes of humor throughout.” —Historical Novels Review

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Book SynopsisMika will do what it takes to make sure there are no more lost ones?and to bring the infamous killer, the Dark Angel, out into the light.It?s summer in 1880 Stockholm, and the city bakes in the heat?but the heat on twelve-year-old Mika is lifting. After lying low following the dramatic blast at the jail, Mika?s relieved to learn her name is finally cleared. And it?s not a moment too soon?because Detective Hoff has a perplexing case involving the disappearance of a local teen. The girl?s wealthy family wants to make sure things stay quiet. Why would a girl who has everything want to run away? And why is her family so afraid to go public?Then Tekla reaches out to Mika with a truly chilling discovery at a construction site in the city?a discovery that might hit a little too close to home for Mika. Could it be the work of the Dark Angel?As the summer heats up, Mika will make some tough choices as she works to uncover these mysteries, including the biggest mystery of all: her own family. Join Mika and Detective Hoff in this thrilling new installment of the Moonwind Mysteries series!

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Book SynopsisUncover a secret agent and build spy gadgets with twin sleuths Nick and Tesla in this zany, action-packed middle grade adventure by 'Science Bob' Pflugfelder!

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Book SynopsisThe third book in an exciting new middle grade mystery series from actress, artist, and YouTube star Hayley LeBlanc!In Hayley Mysteries: The Secret on Set, Hayley has the lead role in a TV show about a young detective, and when strange things happen around the studio, she and her friends become real-life sleuths. Now Hayley and her co-stars investigate their most spine-chilling case yet!Working on a Hollywood set, Hayley's seen all kinds of creepy special effects. When she comes across what appears to be a dead body under a sheet at Silver Screen Studios, though, she's sure she's found evidence of a real crime! But when she brings the security guard back to the scene, the body has vanished, and it seems someone in the cast or crew is playing a mysterious prank. Could the culprit be the show's latest guest star, who's famous for his vampire films? It's up to Hayley and her two best friends to find out!

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Book SynopsisAn exciting time travel journey, combining suspense and adventure with problem solving as Harper tries to keep history on the right course and save a missing girl.Harper Wells finally gets a room of her own, away from her annoying big brother and the grief they both feel at the disappearance of her mother. But on the first night in her brand-new bed, she wakes up in the past and meets a young girl named Edie. Not knowing where she is or how she got there, Harper eventually wakes up back in her room at home.When another night's sleep turns into a second visit to Edie, she's grabbed by a boy her age, who identifies himself as Maximilian. He's a timeline officer and reveals that Harper has accidentally bought a time-travelling bed and her encounter with Edie could have changed Australian history. He tells her that the World Office of Timeline OfficialsWOTO for shortwill kill her if they realise she's using a Wollemi Bed without authorisation or training.Has Harper changed the future or can things be restored? And who does her new bed really belong to? The answer throws her into a world of time-travelling spies and puts her life in danger as she tries to restore Edie's timeline and find the missing timeline officer.Harper Wells: Renegade Timeline Officer is an exciting story ideal for ages 10 and up. It covers grief and loss, as well as important moments in Australia's history. It has a feisty heroine who knows how to stand up for herself and tries to set things right instead of walking away.

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Book SynopsisSome people think that museums are boring places full of glass cases, dust and stuff no-one cares about: wrong! In a hidden headquarters below the exhibits there's a gang ready to handle dangerous, spooky or just plain weird problems: the Museum Mystery Squad.Techie-genius Nabster, mile-a-minute Kennedy, and sharp-eyed Laurie (along with Colin the hamster!) tackle the surprising conundrums happening at the museum. From moving pre-historic creatures and secret Egyptian codes to missing treasure and strange messages from the past, there's no brain-twisting, totally improbable puzzle the Squad can't solve.--------------There's nothing deader than a mammoth -- not just dead but completely extinct. So how can it be moving at night? In the Case of the Moving Mammoth, the Squad investigate the museum's new star exhibit, on loan from Tyrone O'Saurus, ringmaster of the travelling Dinosaur Circus. There must be a reasonable explanation for a shifting stuffed prefistoric animal. Can they sift through the clues and unravel the puzzle before the museum faces a mammoth-sized problem?---------------Young readers will love the riddles, red herrings and big reveals jam-packed into this fun-filled series of mystery stories by Mike Nicholson. The enjoyable extras like wacky facts and activities, as well as zany illustrations by Mike Phillips, will keep amateur detectives entertained for hours.Trade Review'This is a fast--paced and entertaining story... all in all, very enjoyable, with a surprising, and explosive, ending.'-- Carousel'... there is a clear desire to celebrate museums as spaces of imagination and learning. There is a very interesting interplay between text and image in the book, as the story is interposed by numerous illustrations, graphs and quizzes that... make the book very visually stimulating.' -- Armadillo'I just finished reading both books -- they are so much fun!'-- Ms Kirke Kook, Manager and Curator, Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum'There is so much to love about this book. A quick shout out for those with dyslexic children the font and spacing is good as is the creamy pages... A great story and characters, lots of hands on interaction/involvement, fun illustrations, terrible jokes and a great read.'-- Bookworm (indie bookshop, Selkirk)'... a satisfying book. The characters are unique, intelligent, and likable. The museum setting is exciting and fun. The mystery itself is solvable by young readers without being obvious. There is also plenty of humour... This is an excellent and refreshing new mystery series for young readers.' -- Manhattan Book Review' The book is fun and enjoyable.'-- Youth Services Book Review'It made me laugh and I really enjoyed the facts and I think the second one sounds like it will be really good.'-- Mairin, age 7 years'Due to dyslexia ... picking up a book is something that Jonah considers to be hard work. That is until ... he read 'Mammoth'. We had begun to read it together before he went to sleep but he couldn't wait for the story to end and so continued to read on his own!... Within a few nights the book was finished and Jonah asked if we could buy the other book in the series. Completing a book on his own was a real confident boost to Jonah and he genuinely found the whole experience to be great fun.'-- Parent of Jonah, age 9 years'My 7yr old loves to read... She loved the museum mysteries... Her imagination has been gripped [...] All in these books have become a loved part of Anna's book shelves. Perfect for her age group. A page turner she can enjoy on her own with some words and phrases she'd not come across before to challenge her.'-- Parent of Anna, age 7 years'Grace absolutely loved them and devoured each one [Books 1 and 2] in a day. The characters and the plot really captured her imagination and she really enjoyed the way that facts were interspersed throughout (she loves a good fact!) The games and quizzes at the back were a big hit too.'-- Parent of Grace, age 8 years

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Book SynopsisECPA award winner 2023 - Best fiction cover Set in the early industrial revolution and the great canal building age, a young Jane Austen takes on the role of detective as she seeks to solve the mysterious events at the Oxford canal terminus. Nearing completion, convicts work on completing the wharf overseen by the charming secretary Mr George, who shows Jane around. A rude convict Gardiner does not make a good impression though. When Gardiner goes missing and canal funds turn up short, an exciting manhunt ensues but Jane begins to expect something suspicious about the secretary and the reasons why Gardiner was in prison. Were Jane's first impressions very wrong about the relative merits of the convict and the secretary? With the ever-present Austen spirit, Jane with notebook in hand, boldly overcomes the obstacles to finding the truth and exposes some intriguing secrets. Inspired by Austen's third novel Pride and Prejudice.Trade Review'A brilliant children’s historical mystery series that I absolutely recommend. Perfect for ages 8 to 108!’ -- Fiona Sharp, Waterstones Bookseller

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Book SynopsisThere's a new arrival - a mysterious and exotic young princess - at court and Lady Grace can't believe how many rumours there are about her already. The exiled Banoo Yasmine from Sharakand is a beautiful girl with a pet panther and - everyone believes - magical powers. Yasmine also possesses the renowned Heart of Kings Ruby - a huge stone that she wears around her neck to balls and feasts, that legend says has the power to make kings. When the famed jewel goes missing, the finger is pointed at Grace's dear friend Ellie the laundrymaid. Grace must prove her friend's innocence, find the true thief and restore the stone to its rightful owner.Trade ReviewA gripping historical thriller * The Sunday Times *This fifth book in the Lady Grace Cavendish series is thrilling and further elaborates the picture of Elizabethan life shown to us in the four previous books * Through the Looking Glass *The reader is quickly drawn into the intrigue and chilling atmosphere of court life * Primary Times *A pleasant read for pre-teens * Historical Novels Review *A delightful mix of classic adventure and tudor history . . . Full of intrigue and humour * Teaching & Learning *

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Book SynopsisIn the dramatic conclusion to the bestselling Confessions series, Tandy Angel's next murder case could be her own! Tandy Angel is losing her mind – or so she thinks. Even as she's forced to fight for the family company, she's imagining new dangers in every shadow. And as her detective prowess is called into question and her paranoia builds, she has to face the very real possibility that the stalker she's convinced will take her life could be all in her head – or the very real danger that finally brings her down.

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Book SynopsisWhile helping with a car boot sale, Cass finds a very old diary. It talks about picking on the drama kids on the bus, and a horrible prank played during their end-of-year show. Who wrote the diary? Can the Bubble Street Gang unmask the wicked writer?Cass and the Bubble Street Gang Book 3

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Dublin, 1858 BRAM STOKER: boy seeking adventure (and things to write about) MOLLY MALONE: part-time fishmonger and full-time sneak thief! When Bram runs away from boarding school and meets streetwise Molly, he finds all the excitement he’s ever wanted. Together they explore the city, with its Sackville Street Spooks, hoodlums and heroes – and let’s not forget the very creepy Count Vladimir Grof-Constantin de Lugosi. As Bram looks for inspiration for the famous book he has yet to write – DRACULA – our two heroes stumble upon a dastardly plot to steal … the Irish Crown Jewels! Let the game of cat and mouse begin

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Book SynopsisFlick's big brother, Jack, goes missing in Peru and she is desperate to find him. But can she solve the greatest mystery of all: who Jack really is? A heartwarming, third novel from Waterstones Prize shortlisted author, Ewa Jozefkowicz, about the unbreakable bond between siblings. Twelve-year-old Flick adores Jack and loves solving puzzles with him. But Jack is soon to flee the family nest and Flick worries she'll lose her partner in crime. During his gap year in Peru, tragedy strikes when an earthquake devastates the region and no one knows what has happened to Jack. Flick and her family are thrown into the horrible unknown. She finds a key on a fine gold chain and a note with the initials SF in his room, and clings to the hope that SF (whoever that is) might hold the clue to finding her brother. When she sets out to uncover the identity of its owner, she meets new friends, rekindles a special relationship and discovers a whole new side to Jack. Intriguing clues from a legend about Inca gold, to a key with magical powers help her along the way. Featuring a story within a story and a mystery to solve, The Key to Finding Jack, is about sacrifice and courage, the riches of family, friendship and the power of living life to the full.Trade ReviewI thoroughly enjoyed Ewa Jozefkowicz's latest novel about family, friendship and listening – to others as well as the inner voice that both chides and encourages... The Key to Finding Jack is full of tantalising clues and hidden facts... A brilliant read and an author to watch!' -- Alison Brumwell, Chair of CILIP Youth Libraries GroupJozefkowicz writes wonderfully about family, friendship and self discovery * The Bookseller *Heartwarming, life-affirming and a wonderful page-turner -- Chris Soul, children's book reviewerThe plot has been carefully and skilfully crafted to be a story within a story... It is so refreshing to find a well-written powerful standalone story for young adults that I hope it will be widely read and enjoyed' * The School Librarian *

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Book SynopsisAn interactive crime caper with lots of clues to look and spot. STOP THIEF! Someone has stolen the diamond warp drive from Lady Velocity Speed’s car. Without it she’ll never win The Big Race! Can super-sleuthing sloths Stan and Stella crack the case? Maybe with a helping hand . . . (Hey, reader – that’s you!) This immersive adventure will go down well with little mystery lovers.

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Book SynopsisBook Band: Grey (Ideal for ages 8+) More exciting detective adventures featuring Sindhu and Jeet by Chitra Soundar, author of over 50 children’s books in the UK, India and the US. Sindhu and Jeet are back to solve more cases with observation, imagination and a whole load of legwork. Back home in Chennai after their adventures in London (which featured in Sindhu and Jeet’s Detective Agency), the detective work doesn’t stop! These page-turning stories are accompanied by black-and-white illustrations by Amberin Huq. The Sindhu and Jeet books can be read in any order. 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 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.' Books for Keeps Bloomsbury Readers: awesome reading adventures for every child.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 *

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Book SynopsisA powerful contemporary novel for readers of 11+ about slavery, friendship and standing up for what is right.From the author of the UKLA Book Award-winning THE ELEVENTH TRADE comes a second novel with a powerful modern message - for readers of 11+. Twelve-year-old Nadia has discovered a new and dangerous secret: she is lonely.Then two things happen that change everything. She meets Eli, who she suspects may be a superhero, and she finds a strange letter under the dried juniper branches. The next day Nadia gathers her courage to take the letter to Eli. But something about Eli's family is very strange. Why doesn't he let her step close to the house? And is her new friend hiding his own secrets?Trade ReviewBoth a quest story and a friendship story, this book brings to life the traumatic reality refugee children experience in a world filled with borders and walls. * Kirkus Review *'A heartwarming story of life as a refugee, about friendship, overcoming tragedy, and an exciting quest. A classic book relevant to the events in the world today.' -- Jess Butterworth, author of RUNNING ON THE ROOF OF THE WORLDWhen we write stories about cultures other than our own, we listen to people with the life experience. Alyssa Hollingsworth has done more than that - she has lived alongside and befriended people who have shared their stories. I wasn't just introduced to Sami. I was introduced to a whole culture...Readers will cheer Sami on in his quest and cry with him when he shares his worst experiences. A true read for empathy and a great story of our times * Book Murmuration *This book is thoughtful and poignant, important without ever losing sight of hope ... It's so packed with themes and questions that would also make it a fantastic class book for schools ... It's an incredible debut, and I hope, a future children's classic * Phonetic Mangoes *I love this book. It is simply written but the genius of it comes in the topic and how it draws children (especially boys) into the story through commonality with the protagonist, and then transports them into a different world ... It's a fantastic choice for helping children who are stuck in rut to read more widely ... A story of survival, love and understanding. By the time I got to the middle, I couldn't put it down * Just Imagine *Vibrant characters and a lively narrative draw the reader straight into this story * Inis Reading Guide *

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Book SynopsisMark Anchovy: pizza delivery boy and private detective is off to Russia . . .'Hilarious and exciting' The Scotsman'LOVE this proper funny series ... Funny, fast-paced adventure with loads of cheese (the good kind!)' Pamela ButchartPosted to Russia on a school exchange programme, he must find a missing casket of jewelled egg cups. His only lead is a frail ex-detective called Swirly Ben. Who happens to be on the hit list of a jewel thief called Heidi Hyde High. On top of all that, crusty Mr Hogstein is directing the school play. Oh, and Colin's sister Alicia has found out what 'extra anchovies' really means.Read more of the Mark Anchovy adventures for fast-paced and food-filled hilarity:MARK ANCHOVY: PIZZA DETECTIVEMARK ANCHOVY: PIZZA POWER

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Book Synopsis Return to the City of Sin, where the final game is about to begin… and winning will demand the ultimate sacrifice. Only days after a corrupt election and brutal street war, one last bloodthirsty game has begun. The players? The twenty-two most powerful, notorious people in New Reynes. After realizing they have no choice but to play, Enne Scordata and Levi Glaisyer are desperate to forge new alliances and bargain for their safety. But while Levi offers false smiles and an even falser peace to the city’s politicians, Enne must face a world where her true Mizer identity has been revealed… and any misstep could turn deadly. Meanwhile, a far more dangerous opponent has appeared on the board, one plucked right from the most gruesome legends of New Reynes. As the game takes its final, vicious turn, Levi and Enne must decide once and for all whether to be partners or enemies. Because in a game for survival, there are only losers… And monsters.

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Book SynopsisJack Stalwart may be a top rock climber, but no amount of practise can prepare him for the most gruelling climb of all: Mount Everest. When a skull believed to be that of a yeti is stolen by an evil collector of curiosities, Jack must brave one of the most inhospitable places on earth to retrieve it...Trade ReviewI loved the Jack Stalwart series right from the first book - can these keep coming, please? I love it! It's like Anthony Horowitz for the younger reader * The Bookseller *This series is the 'must read' of the summer. The books' travel-based themes also make them ideal for holiday reading -- Jacob Hope * Achuka *The Jack Stalwart books have been a great weapon in the booksellers' 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 * Publishing News *

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Book SynopsisAn ancient and terrible curse of the pharoahs is set to wreak havoc in Egypt. Can Secret Agent Jack Stalwart save the day and finally solve the mystery of his missing brother, Max?Trade ReviewI loved the Jack Stalwart series right from the first book . . . I love it! It's like Anthony Horowitz for the younger reader * The Bookseller *This series is the 'must read' of the summer. The books' travel-based themes also make them ideal for holiday reading -- Jacob Hope * Achuka *The Jack Stalwart books have been a great weapon in the booksellers' 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 * Publishing News *

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Book Synopsis‘Am dining at Goldini’s Restaurant, Gloucester Road, Kensington. Please come at once and join me there. Bring with you a jemmy, a dark lantern, a chisel, and a revolver – S. H.’ The game's afoot for the most famous amateur detective of all time in this collection of eight of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's classic tales.‘The Speckled Band’, a Victorian melodrama in a country house, comes complete with murderous villain, murdered heroine, and a very unpleasant snake; ‘Silver Blaze’ tells of a missing race horse on Dartmoor which turns out not to be missing at all, and a murder that never was. In ‘The Redheaded League’ a pawnbroker answers an advertisement for a red-headed man and bizarrely finds himself copying out the Encyclopedia Britannica; in ‘The Bruce Partington Plans’ Holmes is skulking in the London Underground with a dead body when his patriotic services are called upon to find some stolen state secrets in the run-up to World War I. Sidney Paget was the original illustrator and helped to form the image of Sherlock Holmes which exists to this day - in fact, it was he who created the famous deer-stalker!

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Book SynopsisAn eager young scientist has brought to life a dangerous flesh-eating dinosaur by crossing its DNA with that of his pet dog, Freddie. Can Secret Agent Jack Stalwart capture the dinosaur before it destroys New York City?Trade ReviewThe Jack Stalwart books have been a great weapon in the bookseller's armoury for hooking reluctant readers -- Sarah Moore * Publishing News *

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Book SynopsisOff the coast of Australia, a diver has vanished and along with him an unknown treasure from the wreck of the HMS Pandora. Can Secret Agent Jack Stalwart find the diver and defeat a deadly band of pirates before they sail away with the treasure for-ever?Trade ReviewI loved the Jack Stalwart series right from the first book . . . Can these keep coming, please? I love it! It's like Anthony Horowitz for the younger reader * The Bookseller *This series is the 'must read' of the summer. The books' travel-based themes also make them ideal for holiday reading -- Jacob Hope * Achuka *The 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 *

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Book SynopsisUsually I hate hunting, because I'm not a very good rider and I always end up on my bum. But today the hunt was very exciting, and a little scary too! Because there was almost a terrible accident - and it looks as though someone is trying to hurt the Queen.Could Her Majesty's closest friend, Robert Dudley, really be to blame? As Queen Elizabeth's favourite Maid of Honour, and her very own secret investigator, it's up to me, Lady Grace, to solve this mystery . . .Trade ReviewA gripping historical thriller * Sunday Times *The book truly catches the feel of the royal court and the unpredictable plot leads the reader on many wild goose chases * The Times *A wealth of historic detail * INIS (Children's Books Ireland) *The personal narrative, written with great attention to the details of Court life, is a fascinating and exciting read. * Sunday Tribune (Dublin) *The reader is quickly drawn into the intrigue and chilling atmosphere of court life. * Primary Times: Hampshire *

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