Children’s / Teenage fiction: Family and home stories

Book SynopsisTottie is a loving little wooden doll who lives with her family in a shoebox. The doll family is owned by two sisters, Emily and Charlotte, and they are very happy, except for one thing: they long for a proper home. To their delight, their wish comes true when Emily and Charlotte fix up a Victorian dolls' house - just for them. It's perfect. But then a new arrival starts to wreak havoc in the dolls' house. For Marchpane might be a wonderfully beautiful doll, but she is also terribly cruel. And she always gets her own way . . .First published in 1947, Rumer Godden's classic The Dolls' House has been delighting children for years, and this beautiful edition, illustrated by Jane Ray, will delight future generations for years to come.

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Book SynopsisOnce there was a little rabbit who only wanted to eat one thing…SPAGHETTI!Trade Review"This would be an excellent book in the `social learning’ field, for autistic children who often have difficulty interpreting facial expressions, and will also be great for kids of 2-5 years. It is a funny, visually appealing book!" -- Grafton 103.1FM (AU)" Helping a child laugh about their own fussy eating and fickleness helps address the big emotions that come with these situations." -- Booksellers (NZ)"Has taken first place as our favourite bunny book. . Parents of toddlers and young children will think that Stephanie Blake has been spying on them at meal times. . A very clever, simple story sure to delight the fussiest of children." -- Tall, Short, Tiny and a Pickle (NZ)"This would be an excellent book in the `social learning’ field, for autistic children who often have difficulty interpreting facial expressions, and will also be great for kids of 2-5 years. It is a funny, visually appealing book!" -- Grafton 103.1FM (AU)" Helping a child laugh about their own fussy eating and fickleness helps address the big emotions that come with these situations." -- Booksellers (NZ)"Has taken first place as our favourite bunny book. . Parents of toddlers and young children will think that Stephanie Blake has been spying on them at meal times. . A very clever, simple story sure to delight the fussiest of children." -- Tall, Short, Tiny and a Pickle (NZ)

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Book SynopsisA reassuring story about moving house and overcoming fears, Bill and the Dream Angel is the second picture book from the beloved author of the Seven Sisters series Lucinda Riley, written with her son Harry Whittaker and illustrated by the award-winning Jane Ray.Because somewhere, an angel is listening . . .Bill and his family have just moved house. But, even though Bill's room is much bigger than before, and he has a garden to play in, Bill misses his old, familiar home. This new house makes mysterious noises, especially at night. Fortunately Destiny, the Dream Angel, is on hand to help Bill. With Destiny's help, Bill will learn that what may seem scary at first can result in the most magical of discoveries . . .Enjoy more books in the heartwarming Guardian Angels series: Grace and the Christmas AngelRosie and the Friendship AngelAlfie and the Angel of Lost ThingsTrade ReviewExquisitely decorative with jewel bright colours and starry highlights -- Sunday Times, on Rosie and the Friendship AngelBeautifully illustrated, this first in a new series of children’s books is hopeful, and the perfect Christmas gift in so many ways -- Woman & Home on Grace and the Christmas AngelThe magic of Christmas and the joys of community, friendship and family speak volumes in this warm-hearted tale . . . perfect for seasonal giving -- Pam Norfolk, Lancashire Post, on Grace and the Christmas Angel

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Book SynopsisOnce upon a starry night . . . What's the best way to help little ones fall asleep? Introduce themto super sweet pumpkins, of course! And with cute, cheeky anda-little-bit-spooky pumpkins on every page, and a fun story showingchildren how to count from one to twenty, this book is set tobecome every child's new favourite.

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Book SynopsisA warm and funny stage-by-stage tour through all the sizes of a growing baby – from teeny-tiny poppy seed to giant watermelon – from an exciting new picture book partnership!

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Book Synopsis'Your kids need this lovely book' Kate Beckinsale 'Warm-hearted, touching stories, full of fun but with a subtle message' Jacqueline Wilson Four stories in one! I have a twin brother. Everyone calls him Jimmy, which is sort of the English version of Dimitri, his actual Greek name. Our mum's Greek, you see. I'm Cally, short for Calista, which means, I don't want to sound big-headed or anything, 'most beautiful'. I'm not sure about Dimitri, but if Dimitri means most-annoying-brother-in-the-whole-wide-world, then that's him. Join Cally and Jimmy in four hilarious stories, perfect for newly confident readers. They get into scrapes together, bake some poisonous cakes, almost ruin their school assembly and finally have a twintastic birthday party.Trade Review"Twins bring double the trouble and double the fun... recommended reading and hopefully there'll be more adventures to come." -- Andrea Reece * LoveReading4Kids *"Funny, touching, enlightening and ideal for newly confident readers. Black and white illustrations on every page capture the fun and chaos of life in a complex family." * BookTrust *"Extremely relatable and genuine. Funny without being silly, and heartwarming without being soppy, Twins in Trouble is an excellent choice for parents and children (or even brothers and sisters!) to share." * Books for Keeps *

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Book SynopsisFrom the author of THE PARENT AGENCY comes a thrilling, funny and touching new adventure.Fred and Ellie are twins. But not identical (because that''s impossible for a boy and a girl). They do like all the same things, though. Especially video games. Which they are very good at. They aren''t that good, however, at much else like, for example, football, or dealing with the school bullies.Then, they meet the Mystery Man, who sends them a video game controller, which doesn''t look like any other controller they''ve ever seen. And it doesn''t control any of their usual games. When the twins find out what it does control, though, it seems like the answer to all their problems. And the key to all their wildest dreams. At least it seems like thatTrade Review“A perfect combination of humour, magic and a happy ending.” Charlotte Norman, Waterstones Bookseller “A real page turner… a compelling story with relatable characters and meaningful life lessons." Huffington Post Reviews for The Parent Agency: “Funny, sometimes moving, always engaging” Guardian “I love this book because it really made me laugh! The best book I’ve read since I was born!” Tom, 11, LoveReading4Kids “Exciting and funny – I didn't want to put it down!” Daisy, 10, LoveReading4Kids

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Book SynopsisIt's Jack's first day at Glendale School. He's a star goalie, so why isn't he happy when he's asked to join the team?Themes of family and friendship are explored in this exciting tale of school football.Text type A story with a familiar setting.The storyboard on pp 22-23 offers children the opportunity to recap and retell the story in their own words.

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Book Synopsis''A fresh, lively story about friendship'' Jacqueline WilsonA universal story of friendship, falling out and unforgettable characters that will resonate with all readers of 9 and up from the authors of Slay in Your LaneAde is about to start at a new school. She is NOT happy with her stepdad for making them move here. Shanice has been at the school for a year already. Since her mum died, she's been living with her dad and annoying older brother, spending most of her time outside school in her dad's hair salon.When Ade and Shanice meet in the salon, and spot each other's diaries, an instant friendship is formed, and they start to chat online but offline is a whole other story!The Offline Diaries is a fresh, funny and contemporary story of friendship, told in the captivating voices of Ade and Shanice two utterly unforgettable Year 8 girls who will seize the hearts and imaginations of readers everywhere.Trade Review‘A fresh, lively story about friendship – Ade and Shanice are such real girls' Jacqueline Wilson ‘A fun, lively read’ The Week Junior, Book of the Week ‘Captures all the fizz – and stress – of navigating new friendships in a clever and accessible format’ iNews, Best Kids Books for Summer ‘Younger readers who feel like outsiders will be buoyed reading about these kindred spirits finding each other’ Big Issue, Best Children’s Books of the Year

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Book SynopsisA heart-warming new story from Emma Chichester Clark celebrating 25 years of beloved characters Lily and Blue Kangaroo.Blue Kangaroo has gone everywhere with Lily for as long as they can both remember. So when Lily and her friends are planning their very first sleepover, Lily is so excited for a new adventure with her beloved Blue Kangaroo!But when she hears her friends saying they're too old for stuffed toys, Lily knows she won't be able to take Blue Kangaroo with her. How will she last a night without him? Luckily Blue Kangaroo knows just what to doCelebrating 25 years of Blue Kangaroo, heralded author Emma Chichester Clark brings her classic gentleness and charm to this brilliant new story in the return to her much-loved characters, Lily and Blue Kangaroo.

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Book SynopsisShortlisted for Children's Wellbeing Book of the Year at the Week Junior Book Awards 2024.A visually stunning, thoughtful and calming bedtime tale, featuring tried-and-tested mindfulness techniques.Watch the boat, Chandan, it floats on the ocean. It rises and falls with your breath's gentle motion.Chandan has had an exciting day out with his mum but now it's time for bed, and however hard he tries, he just can't sleep.Luckily, his mum has some calming mindfulness techniqueS at her fingertips. The bedtime boat sits on Chandan's tummy, rising and falling with his breath. As he travels on a voyage of imagination over the seas, the bedtime boat is always there to keep him grounded, and soon gently lulls him into a relaxed and peaceful sleep.With stunning illustrations by award-winning illustrator Anastasia Suvorova, this lyrical rhyming picture book is the perfect way to help restless little ones drift off to sleep.Bring the bedtime boat to life with the origami boat instructions inside tTrade Review“This is a delightful, charming story, told in a gentle rhyming text for a perfect bedtime read.” – Books for Keeps magazine, January 2024 issue “Perfect for bedtime!” – Creative Steps magazine, Autumn 2023 issue “Award-winning illustrator Anastasia Suvorova beautifully captures the bedtime voyage with dreamlike illustrations. . . A peaceful and lyrical bedtime book to help soothe little ones to sleep during their bedtime routine.” – Small Wonder Books (@small.wonder.books on Instagram) “[A] standout rhyming picture book to calm busy minds and make bedtime more restful for everyone . . . [I] can see this beautiful book swiftly becoming a bedtime classic.” – Cast of Thousands “A story that many children will find restful and restorative after a busy day.” – Federation of Children’s Book Groups (FCBG) Blog, Author Q&A. “A beautiful, evocative and gentle bedtime story whose words and illustrations soothe and send little ones into peaceful slumbers.” – Armadillo Magazine “My 3-yr-old granddaughter grabbed this book from my shelves and insisted I read it to her – always a good sign!” – Barbara Band, YLG and School Library Consultant “A stunning and unique book, and the repetition of the boat motif, and rhyming lyrics means it is the perfect book to help little ones sleep.” – Books Before Bedtime “The clever mindful techniques that have been seamlessly woven into the book are brilliant . . . We loved that the book included instructions on how to make a paper bedtime boat as well – such a lovely touch!”– Literate Littles “With glorious illustrations of Chandan’s voyage towards sleep and a simple chant you can adapt using any child’s name, it will help ease the tensions of bedtime.” – Libraries 4 Schools

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Book SynopsisTrade Review“Steele communicates her message that “normal” is in the eye of the beholder without a whiff of preachiness. Her cartoon pigs, done in watercolor with assured, black outlines, are appealing, and any child who feels they stand out in any way will identify and feel empowered. Delightful and important.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “Steele shows how powerful and comforting a wider perspective can be. The watercolor-and-ink cartooning combines a keen eye for domestic and school dynamics with a sweet goofiness that pulls readers through the story, until Pip emerges at the end a wiser and stronger pig.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review)

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Book SynopsisNow a MAJOR MOTION PICTURE starring Michael Caine, Russell Brand and Matthew Goode.Rosalind is the eldest sister. Robbie is her younger brother.Smash is their stepsister - and she isn''t too happy about it!Maudie is the baby of the family. Now you''ve met the four children.But what is IT?A number one bestselling story of four children who discover an extraordinary way to make wishes come true, inspired by E Nesbit''s classic, Five Children and It.

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Book SynopsisPenny''s life is back to normal.As Penny starts the school year she''s ready to face the world - alone. Noah has gone off the radar after ending his world tour early and no one, including Penny, knows where he is. So when she accepts Megan''s invitation to visit her performing arts school it seems like an opportunity to make some new friends. Helping everyone else seems to be the right remedy. Elliot needs her friendship more than ever, and she meets Posey - struggling with stage fright and in need of support. But is charming Scottish boy Callum the right kind of distraction? And can Penny truly move on when Noah''s shadow seems to haunt her round every corner?

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Book Synopsis''A beautifully written emotional story to make you laugh and cry'' - Jacqueline WilsonThe problem with Wales, he thought, was that it was too far away.But that was the point. To leave Southend behind. To get so far that no one would think to look for them there.Max wants to be just like his dad - fun, loud and strong.Instead, he always seems to be accidentally getting into fights and breaking things.But when his dad starts bringing home mysterious boxes, even more mysterious wads of cash starts turning up.Then Dad disappears. And it''s up to Max to look after his sisters until he comes home.When they run away to a remote village in Wales, he''s convinced that no one will find them.He''s Max Kowalski. Of course he can look after three kids with no grownups around!Although, he can''t stop thinking about where Dad really went. And the whispers of a golden dragon, asleep under the Welsh mountains...A funny and exquisitely written story, perfect for fans of Jacqueline Wilson and Ross Welford.Trade ReviewA beautifully written story to make you laugh and cry * Jacqueline Wilson *Utterly lovely . . . Enid Blyton meets Jacqueline Wilson meets Jenny Nimmo, with all the humour and warmth you'd expect in a Susie Day novel * Sally Nicholls, author of Things a Bright Girl Can Do *If Jacqueline Wilson ganged up with Alan Garner and remixed A Monster Calls, with dragons. Powerful and deep. * Louie Stowell, author of The Dragon in the Library *"Wonderfully diverse and effortlessly entertaining, Susie's books are a must for all school libraries" * BOOKLOVER JO, BLOGGER AND LIBRARIAN *

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Book Synopsis*The must-have third book in the gorgeous Lost and Found series from Cathy Cassidy, bestselling author of the Chocolate Box Girls*Sasha has it all. She''s the lead singer of an amazing band and the coolest boy in school has a crush on her. Nobody notices that Sasha''s starting to feel overwhelmed.When a world-famous rock star invites the band to record music at his country mansion and Sasha starts having blackouts, she knows she won''t be able to keep her anxiety hidden for much longer.With the fate of the Lost & Found in her hands, will Sasha''s secret tear them apart?

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Book SynopsisThe hilarious tale of a family coming to terms with its ghosts - literally.Greta Woebegone did not believe in ghosts until the day she was knocked over by a car and almost died. Then everything changed...Now Greta can not only see the spirits that haunt her ancestral home, she can talk to them too - from her grumpy Grandpa Woebegone and Percy the poo-pushing plague victim to the sinister spook in the cellar.Can Greta help the ghosts avoid being exorcised (a fate worse than undeath)? Can the ghosts help Greta stop her beloved Grandma being put in a home? And can they all help each other overcome the pain in their past that''s holding them back from the future?From the acclaimed author of Charlie Changes Into a Chicken comes a touching and side-splitting new story guaranteed to delight readers of nine and up.''Hilarious, fast-paced and full of heart'' - Sunday Express''Funny, engaging and utterly heartfelt'' - LD Lapinski, author of The Strangeworlds Travel AgencyTrade ReviewHilarious, fast-paced and full of heart * Sunday Express *Funny, engaging and utterly heartfelt * L.D. Lapinski - author of The Strangeworlds Travel Agency *

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Book Synopsis''A magic realist fight to save a beloved grandmother from dementia . . . dialect, disability, neurodivergence and gender-nonconformity were all woven incidentally into this open-hearted book - Guardian Best Children''s Books of 2023Mimi adores her wild, fun, full-of-life gran. Then Gran starts forgetting things. Suddenly there are cracks appearing all around their home - and a mysterious black crow - both of which only Mimi seems able to see.Mimi is determined to solve the mystery. Luckily she has new friends to help: Titch and Nusrat. Together, they''re the Stickleback Catchers: solvers of puzzles and seekers of adventure.Down by the river, where the gang meet and the silvery sticklebacks swim, they discover a mysterious stone, speckled with stars. But this is no ordinary stone: it''s the doorway to another world, a world of talking crows and secrets, magical constellations and memories - and maybe, just maybe, Mimi''s chance to bring baTrade ReviewTouching, original and compelling, this is a nostalgic novel about old-fashioned childhoods, but it is also very much of our time. -- Children's Book of the Week * Sunday Times *A moving, fantastical adventure story of coming to terms with challenge and change. -- Imogen Russell Williams * The Guardian *The Stickleback Catchers is a magical tale sure to cast a spell over young readers. -- Pam Norfolk * The Lancashire Post *Auton's brave kid voices ring true to age and region; the representation of differently abled people here is deeply matter-of-fact. -- Kitty Empire * The Observer *A magic realist fight to save a beloved grandmother from dementia . . . dialect, disability, neurodivergence and gender-nonconformity were all woven incidentally into this open-hearted book. * Guardian - Best Children's Books of 2023 *

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Book SynopsisBased on the award-winning children''s series!Featuring everyone''s favourite little piggy, Peppa! Grandpa Pig''s garden is full of vegetables, flowers, and lots of fascinating little creatures! Join Peppa and George as they discover the wonders that live in the garden.Peppa Pig: Little Creatures is from Early Reader Level 1 and is perfect for children aged from 4+ who are taking their first steps beyond phonics.Each book has been carefully checked by educational and subject consultants and includes comprehension puzzles, book band information, and tips for helping children with their reading.With five levels to take children from first phonics to fluent reading and a wide range of different stories and topics for every interest, Read It Yourself helps children build their confidence and begin reading for pleasure

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Book SynopsisBe careful what you wish for!Rita really really really wanted a rabbit.Spike was NOT a rabbit.He was scaly, scary, scratchy, scrabbly, scrawny, speckled and spiky.Rita is so very sure she wants a fluffy pet rabbit and NOT a scaly, scratchy bearded dragon called Spike . . . But when a fussy, grouchy, messy rabbit comes to stay, she discovers they aren''t necessarily as adorable as they seem. Spike saves the day and Rita is very glad to be rid of the rabbit and very in love with her speckled, scrawny, spiky pet.A very funny text wonderfully complemented by Hannah Peck's witty artwork.

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Book SynopsisMeet a friendly monster who wants to have a fun sleepover! Are You a Sleepy Monster? is an engaging picture book perfect for bedtime.Trade Review“The author of the brilliant Are You A Monster? Tackles sleepovers in this interactive picture book in which the readers tell the monster to go to bed.” * The Bookseller *

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Book SynopsisEEK!From Caryl Hart and Sarah Warburton, the team behind the wildly successful 'The Princess and the...' picture book series, 'The Invincibles' series is perfect for children who are beginning to read alone.

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Book SynopsisElizabeth Laird is the multi-award-winning author of several much-loved children's books, including The Garbage King, The Prince Who Walked with Lions and The Fastest Boy in the World. She has been shortlisted for the prestigious CILIP Carnegie Medal six times. She lives in Britain now, but still likes to travel as much as she can.

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Book SynopsisThe fate of all life on Earth may depend on the bravery of two little seeds in this epic adventure from the #1 New York Times bestselling creator and Caldecott Medalist of The Invention of Hugo Cabret.The tale of the natural world is the greatest story we have to tell, and Brian delivers a brilliant chapter of that tale throughout the pages of Big Tree. STEVEN SPIELBERGWe need brave, big stories like [Big Tree]. The New York Times Book ReviewHas the power to intrigue...affecting. The Wall Street Journal* An enthralling and expansive meditation on what it means to be alive on this planet. Booklist, starred review* A balanced and rich book. . . . Powerful.The Bulletin of the Center for Children''s Books, starred and recommended review* In evocative prose and peppery dialogue . . . the cine

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Book SynopsisAli is sure that he will have the best show-and-tell in the class - his magic tricks! But Ali gets flustered when one after another, his tricks all fail. How can he overcome his embarrassment? Sometimes, a magician just needs a little help!Ali the Great, by Yasmin author Saadia Faruqi, is a charming chapter book series about Ali Tahir and his multi-generational Pakistani-origin family. Ali's big ideas will resonate with young readers who believe that every problem has a creative solution - you just have to find it!

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Book SynopsisA beautifully illustrated collection of first recipes and family stories by Kate-Greenaway winning author, Shirley Hughes.This classic collection of easy-to-follow recipes, inspired by everyday family adventures, is the perfect introduction to cookery for first readers. From making pancakes with Dad, baking apples after the Saturday shopping or even icing a birthday cake for Mum, this sumptuously illustrated recipe book gives a gentle insight into the joy of cooking together.Trade ReviewToddler-friendly, easy to follow recipes inspired by six stories about family life feature this cosy, nostalgic first guide to cooking. -- Fiona Noble * The Bookseller *[…]this classic collection will continue to enchant parents and children. * Blackbird Pie *

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Book SynopsisA celebration of Grandparents and the special role they play in family life.This delightful picture book captures the joy of spending a fun-filled day with Granny. With a gentle, rhyming story and lovely illustrations, this is the perfect present for every family. Whether for new Grandparents, on Mother''s Day or at any time of the year. From the creators of I Love My Daddy, a Sunday Times Top 10 Bestseller, and I Love My Mummy, winner of the Book Trust Early Years Award. And the author of picture book classic, Giraffes Can''t Dance.Trade ReviewA warm and humorous celebration of grandparents. * Bookseller *A warm and humorous story * ReadingZone *All her books invite much lingering and looking and capture a close harmony of love, fun and learning * Carousel *

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Book SynopsisThe third uproarious adventure from the comic pairing of Michael Rosen and Neal Layton sees Malcolm and his awful Uncle Gobb return, each with a cunning plot ...This time, there is a plot. That's the plot of the story. Or is it? The plot of the story could also be that Uncle Gobb has an evil plot. And his plot is about a plot. A plot of land. Are you following? Good! The plot of land is behind Malcolm's school and it is where Uncle Gobb wants to set up his own rival Dread Shed School of Facts. Oh no! Malcolm is going to need to come up with his own plot to stop Uncle Gobb's plot. So maybe that, in fact, is the actual plot of this story. You'll just have to read this book to find out!A bonkers book about standing up for yourself, from two crazily creative people. Sure to delight fans of Andy Stanton and Tom Gates.Trade ReviewRosen ... doesn’t just do funny ... he is funny ... Rosen is the real deal * Sunday Times Children’s Book of the Week, praise for UNCLE GOBB AND THE DREAD SHED *Ramshackle and silly in the best possible way * Financial Times, praise for UNCLE GOBB AND THE DREAD SHED *Finely tuned story-telling anarchy * Guardian, praise for UNCLE GOBB AND THE DREAD SHED *Uproarious comic fiction * Bookseller, praise for UNCLE GOBB AND THE DREAD SHED *Reassuring and entertaining, we’d expect nothing less from this industry treasure * Guardian IBW supplement, praise for UNCLE GOBB AND THE DREAD SHED *Hilariously irreverent * Mumsnet, praise for UNCLE GOBB AND THE DREAD SHED *

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Book SynopsisFrizzy Haired Zuzu is a children''s picture book about accepting and loving your appearance. Zuzu loves riding her bike and dancing to all kinds of music. Her curly red hair would bounce when she danced. But Zuzu hates her hair. The older she gets, the bigger it grows. With her sisters and mother, she tries several hilarious—yet disastrous—solutions to tame her frizzy hair. Finally she saves up all her money to visit a salon. But with straighter hair, will she still feel like herself? Zuzu must dig deep down to sort out her feelings about what is beautiful to others…and herself.

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Book SynopsisBooks with blatant boy appeal, but enough drama, excitement and humour to entice ALL readers.Trade ReviewThese funny, inventive, high quality stories touch on subjects dear to boys' hearts....Wonderful stuff, with plenty to please both sexes. * TES Primary, Dec 00 *Full of adventure and humour, these are not just for boys, but for all young readers who love aliens, heroes, football and go-karting. * The London Parents Guide, Dec 2000 *Wacky and inventive, this is a real boys' page turner. * Belfast Telegraph *

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Book SynopsisIn this fun family story, Robbie the Robot is getting things very wrong. The Browns end up being soaked and having ice cream EVERYWHERE! Can Robbie be fixed?Reading Champion offers independent reading books for children to practise and reinforce their developing reading skills.Fantastic, original stories are accompanied by engaging artwork and a reading activity. Each book has been carefully graded so that it can be matched to a child''s reading ability, encouraging reading for pleasure.Independent Reading: Orange stories are perfect for children aged 5+ who are reading at book band 6 (Orange) in classroom reading lessons.

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Book SynopsisPack your suitcase for a magical adventure! At the Strangeworlds Travel Agency, each suitcase transports you to a different world. All you have to do is step inside...Flick is now a badge-wearing member of The Strangeworlds Travel Agency so when an urgent summons arrives at Strangeworlds from Pirate Queen Nyfe, she and Strangeworlds Society guardian Jonathan immediately pack their bags for an adventure to Queen Nyfe's world: The Break, a place of magic and piracy. Nyfe's world is falling apart. The Break is used to having ships vanish without a trace, but there has been a sudden increase that can't be explained by giant squid or mer-people. The edge of their flat world is coming ever closer to them and they need to escape before it collapses entirely.But how do you sail a ship through a suitcase? How do you fit a mer-queen the size of a whale into something small enough to carry in your hand? Will Flick and Jonathan be able to find a way to transport the inhabitants of the Break to another world before theirs disappears forever?A magical adventure for 9+ readers that will take you to whole new worlds, perfect for fans of The Train to Impossible Places and Pages & Co.

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Book SynopsisA thrilling and moving adventure story about evacuees in World War Two, perfect for readers of Goodnight Mister Tom'A compelling heart-warming story about three children in the Second World War - I loved it.' Jacqueline WilsonWhen war breaks out in September 1939, Laura, Andy and Tim Clark are evacuated to the countryside. The Colonel's comfortable home in Dorset is a huge contrast to their cramped terraced house in London, where their loving parents struggle to put the next meal on the table. Though unused to having children around, the Colonel proves to be a kind and generous, if gruff, guardian until a terrible turn of events means the kids must move on. When they discover they are to live with Miss Justworthy, who is rumoured to feed her evacuees on cat food, Andy insists they can't risk staying. He persuades his sensible older sister and their little brother that they must run away, back to London and their mum. The children are shocked to see London now pitted with craters and ruined buildings. And no sooner have they stepped off the train than the skies are lit by searchlights and filled with the crack of bombs and the glow of fires. How will they be able to find their mum in the middle of an air raid?A brilliantly page-turning read from the author of Ballet Shoes, based on her own real-life experience in the Second World War. Perfect for any child interested in wartime and classic adventure stories.Trade ReviewA compelling heart-warming story about three children in the Second World War - I loved it. -- Jacqueline Wilson

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Book SynopsisOne of the Guardian's best children's and YA books of 2023'FABULOUS, HOPEFUL, IMPORTANT' - Emma Carroll'A sensitive, moving 9+ story about fighting for acceptance and change' - Guardian'An inspirational story of a young person finding the strength and resilience to be exactly who they are' - The ScotsmanA beautiful and uplifting story from L.D. Lapinski, author of The Strangeworlds Travel Agency, about how to make your own place when the world doesn't think you fit anywhere. For fans of Me, My Dad and The End of The Rainbow.Jamie Rambeau is a happy 11-year-old non-binary kid who likes nothing better than hanging out with their two best friends Daisy and Ash. But when the trio find out that in Year Seven they will be separated into one school for boys and another for girls, their friendship suddenly seems at risk. And when Jamie realises no one has thought about where they are going to go, they decide to take matters into their own hands, and sort it all out once and for all.As the friends' efforts to raise awareness eventually become a rooftop protest against the binary rules for the local schools, Jamie realises that if they don't figure out a way forwards, they might be at risk of losing both their friends forever...Trade ReviewA sensitive, moving 9+ story about fighting for acceptance and change. -- Imogen Russell Williams * The Guardian *Fabulous, hopeful, important * Emma Carroll, author of Secrets of a Sun King *An inspirational story of a young person finding the strength and resilience to be exactly who they are when faced with a difficult choice. * The Scotsman *A joyful, heartfelt story of claiming your true identity. L. D. Lapinski has created something truly special and also very important * Hannah Gold, author of The Last Bear *A real triumph, bursting with joy * Carlie Sorosiak, author of I, Cosmo *A hugely important, deeply moving and utterly joyful story about staying true to yourself and the power of protest. It's impossible to read this book and not come away buoyed with hope for a more accepting and inclusive future. Everyone needs to read Jamie - their story is destined to become a classic. I loved it! * Aisling Fowler, author of Fireborn *Protest, pride and the promise of change; Jamie is magnificent. * Lizzie Huxley-Jones, author of Vivi Conway and the Sword of Legend *This book is going to mean a lot to non-binary kids but especially too to kids still learning and figuring things out ... a treasure * Marieke Nijkamp, author of This is Where it Ends *warm, resourceful ... explored the options open to a gender non-conforming child at the end of year 6 in a town where there are only two secondary schools: one for girls and one for boys * Guardian *

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Book SynopsisEvery grandma is different … but they're ALL special! Is your grandma an actor or an acrobat? Is she an ambulance driver, an expert chef, or secret spy? Whatever your grandma does, you can be sure she loves you! A heartwarming celebration of grandmas everywhere, and the love and friendship they share with their grandchildren. With Ben Faulks' irresistibly bouncy rhymes and charming illustrations by the talented Nia Tudor, this book is the perfect gift for any grandparent or grandchild. Also available: Grandads Are the GreatestTrade ReviewTudor’s cartoon illustrations match Faulks’ bouncy rhymes . . . A festive intergenerational shindig. -- Kirkus Reviews

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Book SynopsisTwelve-year-old Anna’s parents are going through a rough patch, but Anna can’t let them split up. Not when it might mean living apart from Anto, her twin brother. Anto might be a boy, and he might not speak (except using Lego bricks), and he might carry a coat hanger about like it's his closest friend, but that doesn’t stop the two of them being like peas in a pod. It’s a twin thing, and nobody’s going to separate them. So Anna hatches a plan: get the whole family on a plane to Italy. Her parents have always been happiest on holiday. How can they fail to fall back in love at a swanky hotel with an actual pool to swim in and everything! But when Anna discovers more about why her family has grown apart, suddenly a happy holiday in Italy seems about as likely as swimming on the moon …Trade ReviewConaghan, a beautiful writer who loves to surprise, takes this unlikely pair of cowboys on a road trip to the north of the country. And so Bruce becomes the father figure Lenny needs, Lenny the responsibility Bruce craves as their back stories get a slow reveal. * Alex O'Connell, The Times Children's Book of the Week on Cardboard Cowboys *With the feel of a modern-day classic, this book will make readers cry but is also hysterically funny and life-affirming * BookTrust Great Books Guide 2021 on Cardboard Cowboys *This is an energetic charmer of a book * Irish Times on Cardboard Cowboys *

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Book SynopsisPercy Jackson meets Black Panther: inspired by West African and Igbo history and mythology, this thrilling, action-packed sequel to Cameron Battle and the Hidden Kingdoms sees Cameron and his friends return to Chidani and continue their quest to save the world! Cameron's last visit to Chidani was full of discoveries: he met his ancestors, his power awoke and he stepped into his role as the last Descendant. It was life-changing. And Cameron is eager to return. He needs to find the last gift, the ring of immortality, in order to stop the queen's evil sister and he believes Chidani holds the key to saving his mother and learning what happened to his father. But he must have a plan first, and plans take time. As Cameron and his friends, Zion and Aliyah, start seventh grade, they encounter a bully, Vince, and it doesn't take them long to realise that there is more to Vince than meets the eye. He is possessed by a mmo and under this demonic force he steals The Book of Chidani from Cameron, opens a portal to Chidani and gets sucked into it in the process. Forced to return to Chidani sooner than they planned, Cameron and his crew meet more gods and goddesses, who are notorious for their riddles, and are faced with impossible challenges and threats at every turn. This won't be an easy journey, but the true path to greatness is worth it.Trade ReviewAtmospheric, absorbing and twisty, with great voices and so many original ideas. I loved this breath-taking adventure, and it’s such a treat to see Igbo people centred! * Clare Weze on CAMERON BATTLE AND THE HIDDEN KINGDOMS *Full of exhilarating action scenes and fabulous magic, this book will sweep you away! * Stephanie Burgis on CAMERON BATTLE AND THE HIDDEN KINGDOMS *Gripping and fast - this is also a novel that foregrounds acceptance and queerness via the emotional tenderness between tweenage boys * Observer on CAMERON BATTLE AND THE HIDDEN KINGDOMS *Packed full of action and adventure, this is a book that readers of fantasy aged 9 and above will find wholly engrossing … With echoes of Jumanji, Black Panther and the Narnia series, this would be a great choice for readers who are not yet old enough for Children of Blood and Bone * BookTrust on CAMERON BATTLE AND THE HIDDEN KINGDOMS *Perry has written an action-packed fantasy with Igbo and other African mythology ... This title is a must-read for fans of Kwame Mbalia's Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky * Booklist on CAMERON BATTLE AND THE HIDDEN KINGDOMS *The way it draws on Igbo mythology gives it a particular power and this is a heartfelt story of legacy, loss and the power of perseverance with a strong cast of characters * Books for Keeps on CAMERON BATTLE AND THE HIDDEN KINGDOMS *Inspired by West African and Igbo mythology, this is Percy Jackson meets Black Panther in a blockbuster middle-grade adventure * Pen & Inc on CAMERON BATTLE AND THE HIDDEN KINGDOMS *A wonderfully exciting book full of adventure and heart ... perfect for any middle grade fan who is seeking awesome action * PaperBound Magazine on CAMERON BATTLE AND THE HIDDEN KINGDOMS *

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Book SynopsisIt's Daphne Elizabeth 'DE' McKinley's senior year at Rosetta Academy - and things are going from bad to worse.Bad? The painful break-up she's trying to get over.Worse? A mysterious storm causing the Academy's students to fall into a deep sleep.Even worse? The only person who can help is new-boy Xander, whose dreamy charms DE is determined to resist.But as they race against time to find the source of the magic, can she stop herself falling under Xander's spell too?**READERS LOVE ROSETTA ACADEMY**'Menon as an unique perspective on romance novels, she just adds that little extra spark we didn't know we needed until we see it in her books . . . The Rosetta Academy ones have my heart and soul!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐'This book is a wonderful sequel with lovable characters, beautiful world building, and great continuations of precious characters' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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Book SynopsisDebut author Alan Barillaro delivers a stirring story about a sensitive young girl who must face that growing up means coming to terms with the things you cannot change and taking responsibility for the things you can.Ava's mum is about to have twins, and the pregnancy isn't going well. All Ava wants to do is stay by her mother's side, but instead, she is sent away to stay with her grandparents. Normally, spending time at the lake with Nonna and Nonno is wonderful. But everything is different now. While her mum's hospital visits are getting serious back home, Ava grapples with anxiety. As summer storms rock the island, electricity goes out at the cabin, and an annoyingly cheerful boy named Cody seems determined to pop up everywhere she goes. Ava can't be distracted from the feeling that something terrible is going to happen to her mum while she is gone.When a bird dies in front of her, Ava is sure it is a sign that she is cursed the last thing she, or her family, needs. But if a curse has been placed on her, there must a way to break it. So Ava makes a deal: If she can take care of two orphaned bird eggs, she will have paid off her debt, and her family will be OK...

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Book SynopsisThey have made a very serious decision—they are going on an adventure. All by themselves, just the two of them. Dad might offer a suggestion or two, but this expedition is just for them! Of course, they will have to bring coffee and pickles and blankets and a cozy tent. And, just in case, a jump rope to use as a lasso. They set up camp in the lee of a small mountain (or, in their backyard) and get ready for an evening of fun. But when the pickles are gone and the mosquitoes come out, what’s to be done? The Grand Expedition is the quietly comic story of two kids and their dad and the everyday adventures that make life great.Trade Review"There are those (like me) who feel that 'camping out' in the backyard is a high point of childhood adventure, and this adorable book from Sweden confirms it. Two small siblings inform their dad of their plans, and after gathering their supplies they pitch a tent and hunker down. No, they don't make it through the whole night out there, but does that even matter? With winsome mixed-media illustrations that capture all the most telling details, and a fine-tuned ear for the way kids think and talk, Adbage understands the fun that can be found in a child's everyday reality." —Maria Russo, The New York Times "There is something entirely lovely about this quiet book. Any child who has camped in the backyard will see themselves here. From the little drama of the ant in the book to the pickles to the need to suddenly return home, each element is so clear, so child centered, so realistic. The strong relationship the children have with their father is another highlight of the book. The illustrations have a supporting quiet simplicity to them and yet the busyness and clutter that also accompanies childhood." —Tasha Saecker, Waking Brain Cells "This ode to exploration encourages youngsters to think big; sometimes the most fun is in the preparation."—Kirkus Reviews "A Swedish import that’s ideal to be shared in a seasonal family storytime or as summer bedtime fare."—Patricia Manning, formerly at Eastchester Public Library, NY, School Library Journal "a funny, delightful book with unforgettable drawings, especially the expressive looks in the boys' eyes." —The Vermont Country Sampler ”In The Grand Expedition the most quintessential elements of childhood are pedagogically represented with flourishing imagination, natural world exploration and the quiet presence of a nonjudgmental parent watching over yet never interfering. In an over scheduled and over media drenched world, this book reminds us of the heart of genuine childhood.” —Jesica Sweedler DeHart, The Wandering Bookseller

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Book SynopsisAn ordinary boy in an ordinary world. With no words, only illustrations, Small Things tells the story of a boy who feels alone with his worries, but who learns that help is always close by. A universal story, told simply and with breathtaking beauty, about dealing with sadness, anxiety, depression, heartache or loss, and finding your way in the world

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Book SynopsisHana is at school when the devastating tsunami sweeps over Japan. But when the dark wave finally returns to the ocean, it has taken more than Hana could have ever imagined.Hana’s school sits on the side of a hill with a view of the ocean. One day, while in class, a tsunami drags the ocean across her village. Hana watches in horror as the dark water crashes into trees and tosses cars and boats around. When she is finally reunited with her family, she learns that the wave has taken more than she could have ever imagined. To cope with her grief, Hana begins to paint chidori (a thousand birds).Miki Sato’s collage art, which combines paper, textiles, and watercolor, creates a three-dimensional world that is rich in emotion, detail, and texture.Jennifer Maruno writes with compassion and heart, bringing life to this story inspired by true events.

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