Children’s / Teenage fiction: Family and home stories

Book SynopsisThis is a sad story- but it has a very happy ending. Once, there was a baby with no mummy- but he wanted a mummy very much. Deciding to take matters into his own hands, he set off to find one. Along the way he met lots of new friends, none of whom could be his mummy but wanted to help him find one.When they met a lady with a pram and no baby, the baby finally found his mummy- there was just one more thing he needed- a daddy! A beautiful story about finding your family, it can be used to talk about adoption, fostering and changing families. This Janet and Allan Ahlberg classic is a must for every bookshelf.Trade ReviewBye Bye Baby is wonderful - I haven't enjoyed a picture book so much for years. * The Independent *Janet and Allan Ahlberg are to children's books what Ginger and Fred were to dancing: Bye Bye, Baby is surely destined [...] to become a classic. * The Guardian *

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Book Synopsis''If you want to invent something nobody has ever thought of before, you need to read the things that others don''t read, look in the spaces other people are not in...''Layla believes she was right to stand up for herself against a bully, but it''s landed her a suspension - not the way she (or her parents) would have wished to begin her time at her fancy new school! This is just a setback though, and she''s determined to prove that she does deserve her scholarship by making new friends and setting her sights on inventing something that could win the big robotics competition.But where to begin?You Must Be Layla introduces Sudanese-born author, broadcaster, social advocate and mechanical engineer Yassmin Abdel-Magied as an exciting new voice in children''s writing.Praise for You Must Be Layla:''This warm, humorous account of a larger-than-life Sudanese girl navigating a posh Australian school is an engaging read'' Guardian''Fresh funny and empowering'' BookTrust''A one-of-a-kind bundle of comedy and compassion'' LoveReadingTrade ReviewThis is a laugh out loud story about making friends, carving your way in the world and having the confidence to do things your way. Layla is a fabulous, plucky protagonist, and her inventive attitude to surmounting hurdles is inspiring. The book is also an introduction to thinking about some of the barriers people of colour can face, illustrated by Layla's older brother Ozzie who has been applying for jobs and not even getting interviews. It offers an insight into normal Muslim family life (the Australian setting will be effortlessly accessible to UK kids) together with a brilliant glossary of terms. This story is fresh and funny and is an empowering read - especially for girls and people of colour. A really great secondary school-age novel that everyone should read! * BookTrust *...this warm, humorous account of a larger-than-life Sudanese girl navigating a posh Australian school is an engaging read for 12-plus. * The Guardian *I adored Layla's openness, her aptitude for shrugging off set-backs, taking suggestions on board and embracing change. As the You Must Be Layla title suggests, she's a one-of-a-kind heroine, and this funny, thought-provoking novel - the first children's book from inspirational Sudanese-born broadcaster, social advocate and mechanical engineer Yassmin Abdel-Magied - is a one-of-a-kind bundle of comedy and compassion. * Lovereading4kids *Yassmin Abdel-Magied's You Must Be Layla is a tonic, and a terrific debut for 11+. Its narrator is (like its author) a Sudanese girl who has won a scholarship to a posh Australian school. Bossy, smart and brave, she has to face the students who have it in for her as the only Muslim. Underneath its buoyant humour is a timely wisdom about finding friends in an alien culture. * New Statesman *Sudanese-Australian activist Abdel-Magied's first novel is the sparkling tale of 13-year-old Layla, who moves to a new school, where she is the only pupil to wear a headscarf. * inews *

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Book SynopsisReturn to the magical world of The Rosewood Chronicles in the fourth instalment of this gorgeous series for fans of The Princess Diaries and Harry Potter.''You don''t have to push me away. We can survive with each other and apart. I know that now . . . but let''s face this together.''Ellie is a rebellious princess hiding her real identity. Lottie is her Portman, acting as the princess for the public to shield Ellie from scrutiny. Jamie is Ellie''s Partizan, a lifelong bodyguard sworn to protect the princess at any cost.Lottie, Ellie and Jamie are back for another year at Rosewood - but nothing will ever be the same again.They''re still reeling from their discovery that someone rather close to home is leader of Leviathan - the group determined to take the princess down at any cost.Together they must piece together clues to Leviathan''s evil plans. But this is far from simple - especially as an undercover Leviathan agent is in their midst.Friendships are at stake, families must be reunited and hearts are at risk of breaking . . .---------------------------------------------------------------------------Praise for Undercover Princess:''With a fake princess, a rogue royal and fairytale twists aplenty, this is the start of a fun new series'' - The Sun''Once Upon A Time fans will love this new book'' - Buzzfeed''The book is a great example of friendship and bravery'' - First News''A fun blend of school story, adventure and mystery'' - Week Junior

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Book SynopsisJacqueline Wilson (Author) Jacqueline Wilson wrote her first novel when she was nine years old, and she has been writing ever since. She is now one of Britain's bestselling and most beloved children's authors. She has written over 100 books and is the creator of characters such as Tracy Beaker and Hetty Feather. More than forty million copies of her books have been sold.As well as winning many awards for her books, including the Children's Book of the Year, Jacqueline is a former Children's Laureate, and in 2008 she was appointed a Dame.Jacqueline is also a great reader, and has amassed over 20,000 books, along with her famous collection of silver rings.Find out more about Jacqueline and her books at www.jacquelinewilson.co.ukNick Sharratt (Illustrator) Nick Sharratt has written and illustrated many books for children including Shark in the Park, You Choose and Pants. He has won numerous awardTrade ReviewA story for our times . . . Young moralists will cherish the messages about loyalty and friendship in this fast-paced, special story * Daily Telegraph *Should be prescribed for all cases of reading reluctance * Independent on Sunday *A clear and sensitive book about very common problems . . . A gripping story * Mail on Sunday *One of the most exact descriptions of girl-on-girl bullying I have ever read . . . Painfully believable * The Times *Jacqueline Wilson writes with great skill and humour about the reasons and results of bullying . . . Very readable . . .Tanya and Mandy will remain in readers' minds long after they close the book * Junior Bookshelf *

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Book SynopsisBEST FRIENDS FOREVER!Gemma and Alice were born on the same day and have been the best of friends ever since. Gemma''s loud with a larger-than-life personality, and Alice is on the quieter side, but the two are inseparable. Until Alice has to move house - all the way to Scotland!Gemma is utterly distraught, what if Alice finds a new best friend? Is there anything Gem''s brothers, or perhaps her grandad, can do to help?An entertaining and touching story about a special friendship, from bestselling author Jacqueline Wilson.Trade ReviewThere's no stopping Jacqueline . . . * The Sunday Times *Wilson tells a story of laughter, love, tears, and trouble in this hilarious tale * The Good Book Guide *Read it. I'm sure you'll love it * Reading Matters *As ever, the storytelling is superb, the language direct, and the author shows her great skill in seeing things from a child's perspective * South Wales Argus *A really interesting book with something in it for everyone * Newcastle Upon Tyne Evening Chronicle *

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Book Synopsis''I don't want Sam to be my stepdad, I said. Again.''Lizzie refuses to speak. She doesn''t want to talk to Rory or Jake, her new stepbrothers. Or to Sam, their dad. Or even to her mum. She''s completely fed up with having to join a new family, and nothing can convince her to speak to them. Not football, not pizza, not a new bedroom. That is, until she meets Great-Gran - a member of the new family who is even more stubborn than she is . . .A fun, sparky book for younger readers from hugely popular bestseller Jacqueline Wilson.Trade ReviewA great book * The Good Book Guide *Delightful and extremely funny * Children's Book News *Another winner from JW * The Bookseller *

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Book SynopsisShortlisted for the Laugh Out Loud Book Awards 2023! A fresh, funny, heartfelt look at this generation’s must-win battle: one earth, one chance. It’s the summer holidays, and thirteen-year-old Luke’s life has been turned upside down. First his older sister Rose moved ‘across the road’, where a community of climate rebels is protesting the planned airport expansion. Then his dad followed her. Dad only went to get Rose back, but now he’s out there building totem poles, wearing sandals and drinking mead (whatever that is) with the best of them… Can Luke save his family when all they want to do is save the planet? ________________________ 'Hilarious, acutely observed and deeply felt, Sutcliffe’s new novel is part biting satire on nimbyism and adult complacency, part impassioned call: take action now, before it’s too late.' GUARDIAN 'This is the perfect book to inspire action against the climate crisis and to lift your spirits.' SCOTSMAN 'A heartfelt, well-observed, gripping family drama, as well as a call to arms.' SUNDAY TIMES Children’s Book of the WeekTrade ReviewThis is the perfect book to inspire action against the climate crisis and to lift your spirits. * The Scotsman *William Sutcliffe’s latest hilarious read for teens … resists talking down to its readers as it tackles climate change and environmental protests … The questions posed by this smart, entertaining page-turner are the big ones for our age * Irish Times *Hilarious, acutely observed and deeply felt, Sutcliffe’s new novel is part biting satire on nimbyism and adult complacency, part impassioned call: take action now, before it’s too late. * Children’s books roundup – the best new picture books and novels, Guardian *Warm, funny and very topical. * Sunday Express *This tale of rebel climate protestors is an engrossing and relatable emotional rollercoaster, full of drama and vividly written. * Daily Express *This very funny, topical tale is the perfect stage for Sutcliffe’s witty and sharply observed dissection of adolescence and the cringe-making behaviour of parents and siblings. * Sally Morris chooses the most fun books for kids, Daily Mail *A heartfelt, well-observed, gripping family drama, as well as a call to arms. * The Sunday Times Children’s Book of the Week *Inspiring, funny and warm-hearted comedy… Filled with passion for our planet and the youthful energy of a generation who genuinely want to make a difference, The Summer We Turned Green is an essential read for teenagers and adults alike. * The best children’s and YA books to read this summer, CultureFly *Glorious fun, hugely moving, inspiring and massively entertaining * Liz Hyder, author of Bearmouth *A fresh and funny social comedy with a big heart * Observer New Review *“[The Summer We Turned Green] is funny and moving and the characters are convincing. Older teenagers will enjoy the wry humour and adults will appreciate the social satire on adult relationships * BookTrust *William Sutcliffe, who made us laugh until we wept with The Gifted, the Talented & Me, has applied his gentle humour and acute observations to this generation’s battle to save the Earth to hilarious and meaningful effect * The Times & The Sunday Times: Best Children’s Books for Summer 2021 *This tale of rebel climate protestors is an engrossing and relatable emotional rollercoaster, full of drama and vividly written * Summer Reads for Children, Daily Express *Dangerously funny … Sutcliffe is gifted and talented. I hope the prizes flood in * Alex O'Connell, The Times Children's Book of the Week on THE GIFTED, THE TALENTED AND ME *So, so funny and recognisable – I immediately forced it on my 14-year-old * Jenny Colgan, Sunday Times bestselling author, on THE GIFTED, THE TALENTED AND ME *What a wonderful book! It made me chortle, and I never chortle. So, so refreshing and charming and believable. I loved this book * Max Porter, award-winning author of Grief is the Thing with Feathers and Lanny, on THE GIFTED, THE TALENTED AND ME *The Gifted, the Talented and Me made me cry with laughter. A comic novel like this is a gift to the nation, and Will Sutcliffe's teenage Sam, struggling to adapt as his family moves to privileged, pretentious Hampstead and enrols him in a progressive London school is the best book he has written for a decade. He, David Nicholls and Joe Dunthorne are part of a tradition that goes back to PG Wodehouse, and which has never been more needed by readers young and old * Amanda Craig, journalist and author of The Lie of the Land, on THE GIFTED, THE TALENTED AND ME *

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Book SynopsisThe show must go on.It’s back to show business as usual at Duke’s Academy of Performing Arts. Things are finally working out for Nettie, with her voice restored, her gorgeous boyfriend, Fletch, by her side and the lead role in the college musical.That is, until Fletch is offered the opportunity of a lifetime miles away from London and a TV company invades Dukes, pitting Nettie against old enemy Jade Upton and pulling her friends apart. As she tries to juggle the impossible pressure to perform and following her heart, Nettie discovers secrets about her mother that make her question everything she ever knew. Will Fletch come back? Will the stage ever feel like home? And will she ever find out the truth about her mother? Nettie is determined to find out. Dance Like No One's Watching by Vanessa Jones will show that Nettie is not helpless, and we'd better listen.Trade ReviewI loved this book, for its freshness, fun and unique voice. * Armadillo on Sing Like No One's Listening *

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Book SynopsisA baking nightmare makes for slapstick comedy gold in this hilarious Little Gem from a bestselling author and illustrator team. Albert’s dad needs help in the family bakery, but all his son can think about is sport. So he builds a machine like no other: the Doughmaster 5000. It seems to have solved all their problems, until one night, Dad’s miracle solution turns into a rampaging disaster. It’s up to Albert to fix the mess – but will his sporting skills save him now?Trade Review"An admirable addition to the [Little Gems] series … The story is funny and moves at a fast pace … A great read for young children" –The English Association "This sparkling new story – brimming with Earle’s signature wicked wit and May’s anarchic illustrations – delivers slapstick giggles and guffaws on every page" – Lancashire Evening Post "Plenty of thrills and fun … These pocket-sized stories are really accessible and entertaining … Thoroughly recommended" – The Letterpress Project "This book is guarenteed to have young readers giggling!" – Makebelieve and Manuscripts, blog "A laugh-out-loud sci-fi adventure!" – Kate Heap, Scope for Imagination

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Book SynopsisEd and his sister Roo are faced with the most boring half-term holiday in history: five days spent in the company of their elderly neighbour Miss Filey, and her ancient, smelly cat. But when they find a box of birthday candles in a cupboard in Miss Filey's house, their world is changed completely. These are no ordinary candles, every single one of them comes with a wish. There's only one problem: some of those wishes actually belong to someone else . . .Trade ReviewThis magic adventure is a wish come true * Children’s Book of the Week in The Times *Instantly engaging . . . elegantly balanced between classic and contemporary * Guardian *A joyful celebration of living life to the full * Daily Mail *Award-winning Lissa Evans returns with another warm-hearted, laugh-out-loud funny read * Sunday Express *Pure delight . . . fizzes with creativity, wit, style and charm * New Statesman *Very wise, very magic, very, very funny * Hilary McKay *It seems that Lissa Evans only writes instant classics . . . she's one of the funniest writers for any age * Anthony McGowan *I can't stop thinking about this beautiful and very funny book * Jenny McLachlan *A perfect, flawless, funny, touching book, with the best grumpy talking cat of all time * Nicola Skinner *A superbly funny misadventure about unexpected friendships and living life to the full * Editor's Choice, The Bookseller *

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Book SynopsisJoin a bridesmaid's hilarious journey to the altar in this sharp-witted story of family, friendship and embracing your true self, no matter what you’re forced to wear. Miri is fourteen and in the last year she’s been mugged by puberty. She’s grown six inches, expanded in all directions, her breasts are out of control, and she’s prone to random eruptions of spots. Life already feels like a nightmare and now she’s been asked to act as a bridesmaid for two of her siblings. Two weddings and two bridesmaid dresses – could things get any worse? Of course they could. Her brother is getting married to brittle, beautiful Scarlett, whose sister Tiffany is Miri’s nemesis at school. Tiffany is the other bridesmaid and the pink satin dress they’ve chosen makes Miri feel like an oversized sausage. Join a bridesmaid's hilarious journey to the altar in this sharp-witted story of family, friendship and embracing your true self, no matter what you’re forced to wear …Trade Review"A short, sweet, funny and warm-hearted story of self-discovery" – The Guardian "Packs a great deal into its 128 pages … A strong and engaging addition to [Barrington Stoke's] teen collection" – The Irish Times "Funny and authentic" – LoveReading4Kids "A relatable protagonist, hilarious writing and feminist themes – what's not to love?" – NetGalley reviewer

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Book SynopsisFrom sweltering sun to a wild snowstorm, wardens Grace and Tom must brave the elements to save the day in this thrilling Griffin Gate adventure from bestseller Vashti Hardy. It’s the height of summer in Moreland, and Grace Griffin and her fellow warden Tom Eely are sweltering in the heat until they answer a strange call for help that comes through on the amazing Griffin map. After teleporting to Oakwell, they find the town paralysed by a freezing snowstorm, which is ruining the famous summer market that brings in visitors and trade. Using their mystery-solving skills and amazing inventions, can Grace and Tom find the cause for the weird weather and restore summer from the snow?Trade Review“The Weather Well brings to a thrilling close an exhilarating, fantasy-fuelled steampunk series … a stunningly created ‘other’ world, brilliantly inventive kids, a charismatic supporting cast, and a story full of twists, turns, kindness and big-hearted family values. Add on Smillie’s superbly detailed and evocative black and white illustrations, and you have a reading treat for all fantasy-loving middle-graders.” – Book-marked

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Book SynopsisEngage your seriously struggling and reluctant teen readers with Barrington Stoke's SEN short fiction. Lion on the Loose has been specially designed for teen readers with a very low reading age of 6 and is fully illustrated throughout. Engage your seriously struggling and reluctant teen readers with Barrington Stoke's SEN short fiction. Lion on the Loose has been specially designed for teen readers with a very low reading age of 6 and is fully illustrated throughout: There are big paw prints in the garden. There are big paw prints in the woods. Is there a lion on the loose?

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Book SynopsisA funny, wise and heartwarming story, with a truly one-of-a-kind hero, from the author of the highly-acclaimed I, Cosmo and My Life as a Cat.<i>I am an optimist. A very difficult thing to be, sometimes, at three inches tall.i>Clementine is a genius. She can calculate pi to 69,689 places, remembers the exact moment she was born, and dreams in Latin.She's also a mouse.And when she escapes from the lab which has bred her, Clementine discovers that it's not enough to be the smartest mouse in history if she wants to survive in the real world - especially while the scientists who kept her are trying to recover their prize specimen. So, together with her new human friends, Clementine must find a way to earn her freedom - for good.With beautiful writing and a truly wonderful hero who you'll fall in love with from the first page, Always, Clementine is perfect for fans of Stuart Little, Charlotte's Web, Flora and Ulysses, and The Queen's Gambit.

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Welcome to the Island of Struay, home of one of the best-loved characters in children's books and as seen on TV - Katie Morag McColl!Everyone is excited about the new ballet and tap classes. Everyone, that is, except Katie Morag! But the two grandmothers have decided - she will go to ballet and she will wear a frilly skirt! What is Katie Morag going to do?

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Book SynopsisThis moving account of true experiences in the early life of a young girl is all the more remarkable for the fact that at the time of writing the author was only twelve/thirteen years old. It begins as a charming story of life in a close-knit Asian family in England and the love of not only her parents but also her grandparents in India. Although at times she can be driven to distraction by the actions of her younger sisters, the need to set an example as the eldest sister always prevails. The story develops into a chronicle of dramas that culminated in the need to take her father to India to undergo life-saving neurosurgery and their return to find that their house had been burgled. The girl slowly realises that life is not always about happiness and great pleasures. It becomes a rollercoaster of experiences in which she learns that whilst some friends can be fake, there are also others who care for her. Life is like an ocean journey. The ocean can be angry, but the important thing is to stay calm and trust those who care for you. Soon you will be ashore because every ocean has an island.

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Book SynopsisThere are secrets hidden beneath the ice . . . bring the magic home in the frosty fourth instalment of the bestselling Pinch of Magic Adventures, from the award-winning author Michelle Harrison.   When the Widdershins sisters and Granny are called away in deepest winter to look after cousin Clarissa, it doesn’t take long for adventure – or trouble – to find them. The town of Wilderness has plenty to explore with its frozen lake and winter market, as well as being haunted by a doomed highwayman and his secret love. But the legends are true and seeing a ghostly figure one night, the girls realise that Granny is in terrible danger. As an icy storm rages, the race to save her begins – can the sisters lay Wilderness’s ghosts to rest before another soul is claimed? Discover the fourth spellbinding Pinch of Magic adventure from Michelle Harrison, winner of the Waterstones Children's Book Prize.  Read all of the Wi

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Book SynopsisThe tenth book in the brilliant Roald Dahl Funny Prize winning BARRY LOSER series.Perfect forreaders aged 7-10 years old and fansofDiary of a Wimpy Kid,Tom Gates,Dennis the Menaceand Pamela Butchart''s Wigglesbottom Primary series.Everyone at Barry's school has gone football crazy, but Barry gets thrown out of the team (the Mogden Maniacs) for being completeerly rubbish. Then it turns out that his best friend Bunky is a super striker so Barry becomes his manager. The cup final match is approaching and Bunky's getting carried away with his football fame can Barry keep his head in the game?Join everyone's favourite Loser on his tenth hilarious adventure!Barry Loser: I am not a loser was selected as a Tom Fletcher Book Club 2017 title.Future Ratboy and the Invasion of the Nom Noms is shortlisted for the Lollies Award 2017Don''t miss the other funny books by Jim Smith:BARRY LOSERI am not a LoserI am still not a LoserI am so over being a LoserI am sort of a LoserBarry Loser and the holidaTrade ReviewPraise for the BARRY LOSER Series! ‘The review of the eight-year-old boy in our house . . . "Can I keep it to give to a friend?' Best recommendation you can get', Observer 'Hugely enjoyable surreal chaos', Guardian 'I laughed so much that I thought I was going to burst!', Finbar, aged 9

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Book SynopsisHelp little Monkey find his mum in the brilliantly funny Monkey Puzzle, from the unparalleled picture book partnership of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, creators of The Gruffalo.Where is Monkey's mummy? It's not too much fun being lost in the jungle, and little monkey wants his mum. Kindly butterfly is keen to help, but they don't seem to be having much luck and keep finding the wrong animals! But eventually, they find . . . Dad! It's just as well that he knows exactly where Mum is, and she's waiting with a well-deserved cuddle.This hardback edition features the classic story plus extra content from Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, making this the perfect gift.Enjoy more family favourite picture books from Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler: The Gruffalo, The Gruffalo's Child and Room on the Broom.

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Book SynopsisNikhil and Jay feel sorry for Appa when he falls and hurts his ankle, but they make him feel better by playing Dayan, the Indian Board Game; litter-picking at the Clean and Green Club is great fun when the boys do it in the park with all their friends; one windy day Nikhil, Jay, Amma and Appa make kites and decorate them – and have a fantastic time flying them; Jay doesn’t like tidying up but he discovers that putting away his toys can be a fun game when he does it together with Nikhil! The Nikhil and Jay series is perfect for children moving on from picture books to longer storybooksTrade Review"This delightful first chapter book is illustrated in black and white on every page and is a great way for newly independent readers to experience Christmas in India in the company of two excited young boys." * BookTrust: Books we love in December 2023 *"Perfect for children in KS1 or lower KS2 transitioning from picture books to short-chapter books, this series blends fast-moving storylines with relatable characters and situations. It's also ideal for booster book clubs and to improve reading confidence." -- Tom Tolkien * School Reading List - Jan 2024 book club picks *

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Book SynopsisA project to re-introduce beavers brings a town together against a common threat, in this touching tale from master storyteller Gill Lewis. Times are tough for Cari and her mum. A violent storm has flooded the valley where they live, destroying their home and café business. Things seem bleak – but hope appears in the form of a plan to reintroduce beavers into the area, as the changes that these amazing animals make to the waterways might prevent another flood. Cari knows that she has to get involved. But with the project facing resistance from locals, can she convince them to give the beavers a chance – and will it be enough to save her home from being destroyed for a second time?Trade Review"One of children's literature's most accomplished writers of animal stories delivers a touching tale of environmental fragility" – Waterstones "Another wonderful wild little story about the power of nature to heal … Hopeful and beautiful" – NetGalley review

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Book SynopsisJoin Alfie and Dad as they spend time together in this wonderful collection of stories from the award-winning Shirley Hughes. Alfie's dad is always there for Alfie and Annie Rose. He's there to reassure Alfie during a restless night; he's there to find Alfie's favourite toy Flumbo when he gets left on the bus; and most of all he loves spending time with his children and they love spending time with him! Celebrating that special relationship between children and their dads.Trade ReviewThat rare jewel, a brilliant "Dad" book... fabulous stuff as ever from Shirley Hughes. * Read it, Daddy *In the run-up to Shirley Hughes's 90th birthday, this volume assembles stories in which Alfie's father helps his son: by sharing weekend activities, checking under the bed for flying loobies, retrieving a toy from lost property, finding a wandering cat's real home. Hughes makes the domestic blissful. * The Sunday Times *

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Book SynopsisMeet the fabulously feisty Clarice Bean! In this hilarious picture book from Children''s Laureate, Lauren Child.All Clarice Bean wants is a bit of peace and quiet. But that can be hard to find in a house where your little brother is being utterly annoying, your big brother is in the dark tunnel of adolescence and your grandad''s pouring soup on his cornflakes . . .A true picture book classic, this is the book that launched the award-winning, bestselling Clarice Bean series!Packed with quirky details and humour, this is perfect for children who are ready to start making the transition from younger picture books to independent reading.A fresh, playful, wonderfully chaotic look at family life that will make you laugh out loud IndependentWinner of the Smarties Book PrizeTrade ReviewWonderful to read aloud. * Sunday Express (Cressida Cowell) *It'll make you roar with laughter * Sunday Times *Laugh-out-loud funny gloss on family life * The Bookseller *Child's spot-on portrait of family life...has an anthropological quality reminiscent of Posy Simmonds' Weber family...exuberantly inventive * Books for Keeps *For a humorous and refreshingly honest look at family life, you can't get any better than this * The Bookseller *Brilliantly written and drawn by Lauren Child, the cringe-worthy details are a joy * The Guardian *A real treat. This is only Lauren Child's second book for children and I'm totally hooked * The Independent *Text and illustrations are united in giving this wittily ironic, child's-eye view of familiar characters and their foibles * The Guardian *Represents the arrival of a sparkling and irresistable new talent * Literacy and Learning *A modern classic * Sainsburys Magazine *The quirky perspectives show cheerful disregard for convention in this unusual take on family life * The Guardian *A fresh, playful, wonderfully chaotic look at family life that will make you laugh out loud * The Independent *Full of wonderfully dry one-liners * Times Educational Supplement *

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Book SynopsisWhile Tom and Johnny are on a husky safari in Finland, their half-sisterGrainne stays behind to face the mother who abandoned her. But Tom and Johnny are too caught up in their adventure to thinkof home - until they find themselves lost in the snow, strugglingto survive...

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Book SynopsisA warm, rhyming celebration of Afro hair and father-daughter relationships, from hair care coach and author T?lá Okogwu and rising star illustrator, Chanté Timothy.It’s Sunday evening and dinner is over.Beth is excited and heads to the sofa.Daddy is there with a smile and a chair.“Daddy,” she asks, “will you please do my hair?” It’s the evening before School Picture Day and Beth would like a brand new hairdo! Join Daddy and Beth on a wonderful hair adventure in this heart-warming depiction of the quality time spent between parent and child. This joyful rhyming text is paired with bold and beautiful illustrations from Chanté Timothy (Hey You! by Dapo Adeola).Also includes haircare tips for Afro hair from the author!  

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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 SynopsisClarice Bean is back with all her trademark humour in this heartwarming story by former Children's Laureate Lauren Child

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Book SynopsisIt’s game time! Press start on Into the Game, the awesome-packed, New York Times bestselling graphic novel adventure by YouTube’s favorite family of gamers, FGTeeV!The FGTeeV family gamers have played hundreds of games together.

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Book SynopsisThis new hardback edition of the much-loved story of orphan Anne Shirley has been created in partnership with the world-famous V&A Museum, and has an exquisite cover design from their original William Morris collection.Anne of Green Gables is the classic children''s book by L M Montgomery, the inspiration for the Netflix Original series Anne with an E. Watch it now!Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert are in for a big surprise. They are waiting for an orphan boy to help with the work at Green Gables - but a skinny, red-haired girl turns up instead. Feisty and full of spirit, Anne Shirley charms her way into the Cuthberts'' affection with her vivid imagination and constant chatter. It''s not long before Anne finds herself in trouble, but soon it becomes impossible for the Cuthberts to imagine life without ''their'' Anne - and for the people of Avonlea to recall what it was like before this wildly creative little girl whirled into town.

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Book SynopsisGet ready for the second hilarious diary of unforgettable Billie Upton Green!OK, things just got INTERESTING. Not only is Billie''s class learning how to P.E.E. in the classroom (seriously - don''t ask), they now have some very important contacts in the TV world. Plus Billie''s mums are keeping a HUGE secret and Billie is determined to figure it out!But, Billie isn''t going to be distracted, it''s time for B.U.G. to make it BIG!Praise for B.U.GA sparky, funny new series perfect for fans of Diary of A Wimpy Kid - Daily Mail Jen Carney knows how to make kids laugh . . . and I mean totally unreserved roll-on-the-floor belly laugh. Billie Upton Green is a firm favourite in our house - Emma Mylrea, author of Curse of the Dearmad Trade ReviewThis cheery, highly illustrated diary story, more rooted in contemporary reality than Liz Pichon's Tom Gates books, is the first in a series that's sure to find devoted fans. * Guardian *A sparky, funny new series perfect for fans of Diary of A Wimpy Kid. * Daily Mail *Ideal for fans of Tom Gates, or Pamela Butchart's books . . . a wonderful new series. * The Week Junior *Jen Carney is literally a comic genius! As an adopted person myself, it was so wonderful to see an adoptee having fun, living her best life (with biscuits) and being basically awesome! I highly recommend this riotous read . . . My kids and I can't wait for more books from the talent and wonder that is Jen Carney! * Maisie Chan, author of Danny Chung Does Not Do Maths *Fun, funny, inclusive and warm-hearted, these books are pure, cheery joy * Sophie Anderson, author of The House with Chicken Legs *

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Book SynopsisI'm going to a place called Grand Theatre and I'm going to be a dancer in a pantomime!'Tess loves to dance, even when everything seems grim. After mum dies and pa leaves, she and her brothers and sisters are all alone, with hardly any food or money. With empty stomachs and scrambling for pennies, they've got to fend for themselves.When Tess's big brother and sister go out to look for work, she has to stay in class at The Ragged School and take care of their baby sister Ada. But Tess is determined that even though she is poor, she will still get to go to the ballor at least to dance in the Cinderella pantomime at the Grand TheatreA captivating Victorian adventure about family troubles and big dreams from the bestselling Jacqueline Wilson.

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

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Book SynopsisHere is a story that everyone should know.It's the tale of a princess named Shiloh.She lived in a kingdom, not far from yours,in a grand house with a swimming pool and fourteen floors.I know that sounds too big but here's the thing:her mother and father were the Queen and King.Being a princess is a tough job for someone so small.It's even harder when you have a problem you can't solve at all.You see, every princess in the kingdom could sing.Yet Shiloh's voice could do no such thing . . .Shiloh might not be able to sing like her sisters, but she has other talents, and sometimes it's about embracing your differences and celebrating them!

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Book SynopsisTilla has spent her entire life trying to make her father love her. But every six months, he leaves their family and returns to his true home: the island of Jamaica.When Tilla''s mother tells her she''ll be spending the summer on the island, Tilla dreads the idea of seeing him again, but longs to discover what life in Jamaica has always held for him. In an unexpected turn of events, Tilla is forced to face the storm that unravels in her own life as she learns about the dark secrets that lie beyond the veil of paradise all in the midst of an impending hurricane.Hurricane Summer is a powerful coming of age story that deals with colorism, classism, young love, the father-daughter dynamic--and what it means to discover your own voice in the center of complete destruction.

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Book SynopsisA laugh-out-loud picture book full of elves, perfect for bedtime reading! Elves are everywhere - oh yes - right there in the park, building sandcastle on the beach and even causing chaos at the library! Can you spot any near you?

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Book SynopsisBoo the pumpkin does NOT like Halloween. And she does NOT like trick-or-treating. Why? Because she's afraid of the dark. So, when Halloween comes around Boo is especially worried. But when she meets a little boy who also shares his fears, Boo realisesthat perhaps Halloween - and the dark - aren't quite as scaryas she thought.

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Book SynopsisAlex's best friend is Kevin the cockapoo, although what he wants most of all is a friend at school. A charming and gentle story about how life isn''t one size fits all.Everything is changing for 11-year-old Alex and, as an autistic person, change can be terrifying. With the first day of high school only a couple of months away, Alex is sure that having a friend by his side will help. So, he's devised a plan impress the kids at school by winning a trophy at the PAWS Dog Show with his trusty sidekick, Kevin. This should be a walk in the park ... right?Trade ReviewPaws is a thoughtful, and well-crafted book which deals with friendship and hope. Alex is a wonderfully caring character. * Maisie Chan *This was a charming read I thoroughly enjoyed. I think any young reader will relate to Alex as he navigates school, dreams and forming friendships with the fun of a dog show thrown in! Honest, touching and real ... a hug of a book. * Gina Blaxill *This is a book about friendship and it's ADORABLE. It's gentle & heart warming and – thankfully, because it's impossible not to care – has the perfect feel good ending * Perdita Cargill *I raced through this book and really related to it again due to Loghan and the issues that he faces. The book is written beautifully with a lovely story and well developed characters that I loved especially Alex. I loved that their was a dog in this story who was Alex's best friend because honestly as a mother of a boy who faces the same challenges as Alex, this really resonated with me. [...] I loved it and if you like reading middle grade books, love dogs or just love heart-warming books in general, this is the book for you. -- @fiction_vixen18This book is aimed at age 7-10 but I got a lot out of it as an adult too. It was so educational. My son (age 8) has recently been diagnosed as autistic and basically Alex is him! He related to Alex in so many ways, he said ‘Alex talks like me, and his brain blocks out things like mine does’, he was eager to read this every night, I think it really resonated with him and it’s definitely one we will be re-read, especially as he gets older. -- @real_mother_booker

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Book SynopsisTopsy and Tim find fun and adventure in the real world. Their engaging stories are reassuring for young children having first experiences of their own. In Topsy and Tim: Go to Hospital, Tim has fallen out of a tree and bumped his head. He''s a little nervous about going to hospital, but he soon finds out how nice the Doctors and Nurses are, and there are lots of other children on the ward to play with too. The only problem now is making sure Topsy doesn''t feel left out!A trusted and well-loved pair who can help guide parents and children through ''first experiences'', Topsy and Tim books have been beautifully updated with contemporary artwork. Topsy & Tim remain instantly recognisable to parents while in a fresh style that will appeal to a new generation of fans. These wonderful books deserve a place on every child''s bookshelves.

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