Children’s / Teenage fiction: Family and home stories

Book SynopsisTrade Review“OKIDO contributor Dawnay has put together a collection of original and inclusive stories about animals, dragons, nature, vehicles, music and more, as well as reimagined fairy tales from around the world. Aimed at the gift market, this edition is published with foil touches and a ribbon marker.” * The Bookseller *

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Book SynopsisLuca thinks his future is set, running his family's ice cream cafe. But when the business might close and his gran begins struggling with dementia, Luca feels increasingly lost. A heartwarming story of family, resilience and hope.

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Book Synopsis A stunning edition of Kevin Brooks' celebrated novel - a truly original, powerful and emotional story from the author of The Bunker Diary! ' ... will keep you gripped.' The Observer "... a cult novel." Independent "An immensely clever murder mystery." Literary Review Martyn hated his dad, but he never meant for him to die. And now he has to tell the police what happened ... or hide the body. Simple, right? Not quite. One story leads to another. Secrets and lies become darker and crazier. And then everything shatters. Life is never easy, but death is even harder ... A stunning reissue of the Branford Boase-winning novel from Kevin Brooks, author of The Bunker Diary; also shortlisted for the CILIP Carnegie Medal. Published in over 20 countries and over 250,000 copies sold worldwide!

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Book SynopsisTrade Review★ "A compelling and transformative story of a tragic period in American history....Each voice is powerful, evoking raw emotions of fear, anger, resentment, uncertainty, grief, pride, and love....An unforgettable must-read.​" —Kirkus, STARRED review ★ "Chee is a master storyteller…. Here, she uses her own San Francisco–based Japanese American family's history to inform a blazing and timely indictment of the incarceration of Japanese Americans during WWII. Her passion and personal involvement combine with her storytelling talents to create a remarkable and deeply moving account of the incarceration…. [We Are Not Free] should become required curriculum reading on a shameful and relevant chapter in U.S. history." —Booklist, STARRED review ★ "The novel may be fiction, but it will be hard for readers not to fall deep into the harsh realities these teens face. The writing is engaging and emotionally charged, allowing the readers to connect with each character...Chee’s words are a lot to take in, but necessary and beautiful all the same." —School Library Journal, STARRED review ★ "Inspired by Chee’s family history, the book powerfully depicts, as an author’s note states, “a mere fraction of what this generation went through.” This is an essential contribution to the understanding of the wide-ranging experiences impacting people of Japanese ancestry in the U.S. during WWII." —Publishers Weekly, STARRED review "A brilliant and intimate portrayal of several San Francisco teenagers during the mass incarceration of Japanese-Americans in World War II. Chee's nuanced and unforgettable characters will serve to enlighten readers about this devastating and shameful piece of America's past. A beautiful, painful, and necessary work of historical fiction." —Veera Hiranandani, Newbery Honor winning author of The Night Diary “Traci Chee masterfully weaves together harrowing truths about the mass incarceration of Japanese and Japanese-Americans during WWII, and features a cast of friends whose honesty, strength, and love for one another will break your heart. With characters who need to have their stories told, and a history that should never be forgotten, WE ARE NOT FREE is powerful, moving, and so incredibly necessary.” – Akemi Dawn Bowman, Morris Award Finalist and author of Starfish “These powerful interconnected stories of incarceration during WWII told by Nisei youth will wrap around your heart like barbed wire. With deft touches of humor, heart, pathos, and anger, We Are Not Free by the talented Traci Chee is the best Japanese American incarceration novel I’ve read. I loved this book that epitomized gaman and will be buying a copy for everyone in my family.” —author Debbi Michiko Florence “This novel is nothing short of a masterpiece. In We Are Not Free, Traci Chee gives us the most comprehensive novelization of the Japanese American internment that I've ever read, without sacrificing the intimate and achingly human individual experience. Traci Chee's characters don't step off the page so much as they shuffle, sashay, and swagger. With them, you will blaze with incandescent rage, crumble with internalized shame, and laugh with true, soul-deep joy. Each individual voice, each individual story is a gem; taken as a whole, they are an unforgettable wonder that you will want to return to again and again.” —Misa Sugiura, author of This Time Will Be Different and It's Not Like It's a Secret, winner of the 2018 APALA Award for YA Literature &n —

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Book SynopsisGuided by his mother, a young bear learns important life lessons before finally finding his true calling.

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Book SynopsisBuild your child's reading confidence at home with books at the right levelWhen Paddington starts to make a list of all the nice things he can think of about being a bear and living with the Browns he is sure to include the garden'. Paddington feels very lucky to have such a nice garden, especially as he has his own little patch in it to keep him out of mischief!When Paddington is around, things are rarely simple and he soon finds that gardening his own little patch in the Brown family's garden is not as easy as he had thought. He sets out, with a jar of marmalade of course, to look for ideasChildren can recap the story through Paddington's list on pages 3031, providing lots of speaking and listening opportunities.Emerald/Band 15 books provide a widening range of genres including science fiction and biography, prompting more ways to respond to texts.Ideas for Reading provide practical support and stimulating activities.Trade Review“When Paddington tries his paw at gardening there are both interesting and colourful results”Children’s Buyer’s Guide Autumn Books

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Book SynopsisEnter the mind of Joey Drew in this exclusive memoir, sure to captivate fans of the hit horror video games Bendy and the Ink Machine and Bendy and the Dark Revival!Bendy fans will delight in poring over the memoir of his ingenious creator, Joey Drew. From humble beginnings to his meteoric rise as the force behind his eponymous studio, Mr. Drew offers a behind the scenes peek at his many animation innovations, such as Sillivision, his Rules to Animate By, and of course his unique approach to franchising-among the first of its time.This re-release even includes never before seen information omitted from the original manuscript, cobbled together from the Joey Drew Studios archive as well as Mr. Drew''s personal estate. Don''t miss this exclusive peek inside the rise-and fall-of one of the most groundbreaking animators in history!

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Book SynopsisNew York Times No.1 Bestseller - now including a story CD performed by the author, bringing the magic to life.From the legendary Paul McCartney - an action-packed picture-book adventure celebrating the fun that grandparents and grandchildren can have when their imaginations run wild.Grandude is a one-of-a-kind adventurer - a Mary Poppins for the modern day! With his magic compass he whisks his four grandkids off on whirlwind adventures, taking them all around the globe . . . Join them as they ride flying fish, dodge stampedes, and escape avalanches!Beautifully imagined in a riot of colour by talented children''s illustrator Kathryn Durst, it''s the perfect bedtime story for little explorers.This is a new paperback edition with an accompanying CD, featuring narration, instrumental music, and sound effects - all performed by the author himself.A charming tale from the music legend - with the most glorious illustrations that will be

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Book SynopsisA hilarious new book from the bestselling children''s author - Adrian Mole for the new generation!*''Made me cry with laughter and my heart ache'' Lisa Thompson, author of The Goldfish Boy**''Funniest. Book. Ever'' Ross Welford, author of Time Travelling with a Hamster*Stan is going on holiday to Italy with his (fifth) best friend Felix and a load of strangers.Stan is absolutely terrified.Luckily, his mum''s given him an emergency list that includes how to survive a shark attack, and what to do if he gets kidnapped.Stan thinks that a better list would include how to cope with odd food, and what to do if he accidentally calls Felix''s mum ''mum'' in front of everybody.And it soon turns out Italy is full of dangers and things that can go wrong.One thing''s for certain, Stan''s not going to come back the same boy he left. He just hope he comes back at all . . .Worst. Holiday. Ever is a story about facing fears, dealing with worries, and how it''s OK to be anxious, scared, and sometimes a little bit brave.Trade ReviewMade me cry with laughter and heart ache * Lisa Thompson, author of The Goldfish Boy *Funniest. Book. Ever * Ross Welford, author of Time Travelling with a Hamster *The funniest book of the summer * The Times *

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Book SynopsisCelebrate Valentine's Day with the construction crew from the bestselling Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site series! It's Valentine's Day at the construction site, and every truck finds a special note just for them—but who is the mystery writer? Lift the flaps to reveal sweet and silly messages, and celebrate the kindness of true friends. With bestselling author Sherri Duskey Rinker's lovable rhyming text, and heartwarming illustrations by AG Ford, this interactive Valentine's tale will bring smiles to big truck fans and their families year after year. LIFT THE FLAPS: Eight sturdy flaps throughout encourage interactive reading and help little ones develop fine motor skills. Kids will love uncovering the secret message behind every flap and using clues to guess which truck sent each mystery message! A GREAT READ-ALOUD: Sherri Rinker's energetic rhymes make for a satisfying read-aloud experience, keeping construction-loving kids engaged all the way through. BESTSELLING TEAM: This heartwarming holiday story comes from the bestselling team behind Construction Site on Christmas Night and Three Cheers from Kid McGear. A DELIGHTFUL FIRST VALENTINE BOOK: Seeing how the construction trucks share sweet messages of friendship and appreciation is the perfect way to introduce young readers to Valentine's Day traditions. FAMILIAR FRIENDS: Features the same beloved trucks and construction site from the original book Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site. Perfect for • Parents • Gift-givers • Fans of the Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site series • Truck and construction fans

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Book SynopsisWhat will Omri find inside the eaves of his new home? Will there be more little figures that come to life? After Omri reads his great-great-great-aunt's account, he longs to try the key. And when his friend Patrick comes to stay, nothing can stop him.Trade ReviewPraise for The Indian in the Cupboard ‘An assured piece of story-telling, well able to stand comparison with older classics.”Times Educational Supplement “Enthralling and hair-raising reading.” TLS “The Key to the Indian is a swiftly-moving, tightly-plotted, exciting, funny tale, which will keep the reader firmly hooked and frantically turning the pages.” Carousel Praise for The Secret of the Indian “There have been many famous stories in which children’s toys come alive: this book is in the same great tradition.” School Library Association

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Book SynopsisSam is having a bad day and nothing is going right. Dad is too busy to play with him, he doesn''t like his lunch and he doesn''t enjoy Archie''s party. Can Aunt Jen help him to stop feeling so angry This series introduces young children to different aspects of our emotions and behaviour. A fictional story is backed up by suggestions for activities and ideas to talk about, while a wordless storyboard encourages children to tell another story.Trade ReviewFull of excellent advice. - Parents in Touch

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Book SynopsisCount down to Christmas Horrid Henry-style with this totally awesome and great value festive gift book, packed with six favourite festive Horrid Henry stories, a Christmas survival guide and a hilarious advent joke countdown to the big day. Featuring:Horrid Henry's Christmas Play Horrid Henry and the Abominable Snowman Horrid Henry's Christmas Presents Horrid Henry's AmbushHorrid Henry's Christmas Horrid Henry's Christmas LunchPlus How to Survive Christmas Chaos with Horrid Henry.The perfect festive gift book for Horrid Henry fans and mischievous children everywhere!Trade ReviewHenry's got everything you need to make Christmas really horrid * Buckinghamshire Advertiser *Forget Harry Potter, it's a wicked, spiteful boy who's really firing kids' imaginations * THE GUARDIAN *

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Book SynopsisThe long-awaited sequel to the international best-seller, I Love You to the Moon and Back with a beautiful and reassuring text, and stunning illustrations from Tim Warnes. With familiar and lovable bear characters, this is a heartfelt celebration of each moment of love and laughter shared by a parent and child. A tender and warm portrayal of unconditional love is perfect to share with little ones night and day. Ideal for fans of Guess How Much I Love You, While We Can't Hug and Oh! The Places You'll Go!

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Book SynopsisFrom acclaimed New Yorker cartoonist Liana Finck comes a validating and heartfelt feelings book like none other.This exploration of mixed and wide-ranging emotions is presented in illustrated vignettes and beautifully articulate text. Each spread portrays a specific scenario involving a child and a phrase that reminds readers (young and old) that not all feelings can be summed up in a single word, or occur singularly. The text ?Mostly happy but a little sad? accompanies a child leaving for the beach, but waving goodbye to his dog. ?Like I?m trying hard to have fun? shows a child at a loud party, covering their ears. In her trademark style and funny-because-it?s-real approach, Finck has created a deeply insightful book on feelings that validates the way we all experience the world.

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Book SynopsisTidying superstar Marie Kondo brings her unique magic to Kiki and Jax, a charming picture book story about how tidying up can spark joy in the lives of young children.Kiki and Jax are best friends – Jax enjoys sorting but Kiki enjoys collecting and gathers a lot of stuff. Soon her home is full of things all over the place. Where is Kiki's ball? What did she do with her swimsuit? Her home has become an obstacle course and it's hard for Kiki and Jax to play together. But Jax has a plan – he teaches Kiki how to sort everything and to keep only those things that spark joy. Once she and Jax have tidied up, Kiki has room in her life for those things that matter the most – especially Jax!An accessible introduction to Marie Kondo - complete with a special step-by-step folding activity - this charming story will make tidying fun for even the youngest of children! Trade ReviewA charming and sweetly illustrated book. * Daily Telegraph *

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Book SynopsisCarter Jones is astonished early one morning when he finds a real English butler, bowler hat and all, on the doorstep. He announces he is here to stay to help the Jones family, which is a little bit broken. In addition to figuring out middle school, Carter has to adjust to the unwelcome presence of this new know-it-all adult in his life and navigate the butler's notions of decorum and love of cricket. And ultimately, when his burden of grief and anger from the past can no longer be ignored, Carter learns that a burden becomes lighter when it is shared. Sparkling with humour, this insightful and compassionate story is the latest from the award-winning author of Orbiting Jupiter.Trade Review"Schmidt effortlessly fuses humor and tragedy" * New York Times Book Review *"Wonderfully impressive and layered" -- starred review * Kirkus *"A rich and nuanced middle grade novel that will appeal to readers who feel a little on the outskirts" -- starred review * School Library Journal *"His engaging narrative leads readers through a broad range of emotions in this beautifully written, often amusing, and ultimately moving novel" -- starred review * Booklist *"Schmidt fuses pathos and humor in this adroitly layered novel" -- starred review * Publishers Weekly *"Deft use of comedic scenes and Schmidt’s trademark use of narrator-provided snark give the story the levity it needs to counteract the surprising number of tears readers are likely to shed. [Written] with remarkable finesse" -- starred review * Horn Book *"Suffused with the same warmth, compassion and originality of the author’s stunning debut, Orbiting Jupiter, this funny, moving middle grade novel is a true treasure with broad appeal and rich rewards." -- Joanne Owen * LoveReading4Kids *"Gary D. Schmidt has written a tender story of masculinity and companionship... Beautifully paced the book demonstrates to us all the importance of making good decisions, and of remembering who we are and who we love." -- Matthew Martin * Books for Keeps *

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Book SynopsisLIFE, DEATH & TIME TRAVEL ON THE GLASGOW SUBWAY "Life isnae a fulm. It’s barely even a story. Thur’s nae such hing as gid guys and bad guys, thur’s jist… guys. Cause sometimes folk dae nice hings, really lovely hings, and then a minute later they dae horrible, break yer heart hings. But that widnae be easy tae digest over ninety minutes while ye munch yer popcorn and sook yer Tango Ice Blast. So we pretend thur’s gid guys and bad guys and sort folk intae wan category or the other. We don’t like tae believe thur’s a giant chasm in the middle whaur everybody really sits." When selfish student Daisy trashes her stepdad’s funeral, she gets blind drunk and wakes up on the Glasgow subway to find she has travelled back in time. To make amends for her behaviour, she must save a life—but she doesn’t know who, how, or where to begin. She’ll have to find out fast if she wants to make it back to her old life and avoid being trapped in the wrong timeline forever. This novel was awarded one of the first Scots Language Publication Grants funded by the Scottish Government and administered by the Scottish Book Trust. Trade ReviewDaisy On The Outer Line by Ross Sayers Published by Cranachan I FIRST became interested in Daisy On The Outer Line because of its Scottish roots, with it not only being set in Glasgow, but written in Scots. This is something that caught my eye as it’s not a common occurrence for an author to focus on Scotland like Ross Sayers does in this book and his last standalone novel, Sonny And Me. The use of Scots creates a unique atmosphere to the book, differentiating itself from the many written in Traditional English. I found this change actually made it a much easier book to read, as every page felt a little more casual – even with themes of life, death and morality there was something intensely welcoming about it. Settling into reading in this style made the whole experience fade away from the boundaries of what you might expect a book to be like, and has the tone of a catch-up with an old friend. This made it a remarkably easy read with each page flying by, as well as enabling a connection to the story and making a lasting impression. The main character that the story is told from the perspective of is Daisy, an emotionally closed-off 19-year-old with a tendency to come off as selfish. Such a purposefully flawed protagonist is something that always gets my attention as it means room for growth to follow along with, and an understanding that people aren’t perfect. This is actually demonstrated by one of my favourite quotes in the book: “Life isnae a fulm. It’s barely even a story. Thur’s nae such thing as gid guys and bad guys, thur’s jist... guys.” And this is a quote that stuck with me throughout the story. I found myself rooting for Daisy to see her own worth, see that there’s truly a place for her to belong when she makes a real effort for other people, and that not all connection ends in pain. Ultimately, what I loved about Daisy as a character was that her flaws made her human, but her journey to treating other people and herself better is what made her likeable. The plot really begins on December 23 when Daisy finds herself in her counsellor’s office trying to talk about anything but the recent death of her stepdad who she’d never gotten along with. What quickly emerges is the idea that she never felt like she could get close to him after her own father left without warning. She had written off the concept of having a dad and was certain of this. Later that day, after causing a scene at his funeral and getting in a fight with her mum, she got drunk at her work night out and fell asleep on the Glasgow subway. Upon waking up, Daisy found herself with the shock of her life, sent back in time to December 6 in a different body with a mission. The only thing that can give her back her old life is saving her stepdad before it’s too late – but with no one to turn to and no idea of where to start, it may be the kind of challenge to change her. What I found to be particularly important in this book was reading from Daisy’s perspective. Without knowing her thoughts and feelings, without knowing the pain and anxiety that comes from when she says the wrong thing and hurts someone, her story would not have been nearly as effective. I would love for everyone to read this book and find something about themselves in all that Daisy learns. -- Gemma MacLaughlin * The National *The use of Scots creates a unique atmosphere to the book; every page felt a little more casual – even with themes of life, death and morality there was something intensely welcoming about it. Settling into reading in this style made the whole experience fade away from the boundaries of what you might expect a book to be like, and has the tone of a catch-up with an old friend. This made it a remarkably easy read with each page flying by, as well as enabling a connection to the story and making a lasting impression. I would love for everyone to read this book and find something about themselves in all that Daisy learns. -- Gemma McLaughlin * The National *

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Book SynopsisTola may be small, but she''s very determined!Too Small Tola lives in a flat in Lagos with her sister, Moji, who is very clever, her brother, Dapo, who is very fast, and Grandmummy, who is very bossy. One day Tola discovers the secret of multiplication and division. She is so happy!But then there is news of a deadly virus, and news of lockdown too. Moji goes away to live and study with her teacher and Dapo goes off to live and work with his boss. Grandmummy cannot go out to work so Tola does instead.Tola goes to live with a wealthy couple, the Diamonds. She cleans and washes and scrubs, scrubs, scrubs. She befriends the other workers too. But she soon learns that even the wealthy Dimonds have problems of their own. And when it comes to solving them, Tola proves once again how kind and clever, mighty and resourceful she truly is.Trade ReviewFeatured in The Bookseller's April 2022 Previews. * The Bookseller *I really liked this book because I liked learning about Nigeria and how they felt when the corona virus came. […] I would like to read other stories about Tola and learn more about her life in Nigeria -- Storm, Age 7 * Kids Book Review, Books Up North *Featured in Pen & Inc Autumn/Winter 2022 listings, highlighting the best in diversity and inclusion in children's books. * Pen & Inc *This latest book in the series of Too Small Tola is just as engaging as the first two […] These down to earth, warming stories will bring pleasure to individual 7 to 9 year old readers and to adults who share them with a class. * English 4-11 *Atinuke empathetically portrays the harsh reality some populations faced during quarantine, along with the disparity between wealthy and low-income people, in a way that will be manageable for young readers. The story gives readers and their families a big message of hope, strength, and triumph. * Just Imagine *

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Book SynopsisDiamond wants to know whether or not she'll get the present she wants for her birthday. But it turns out she's getting a new brother! He keeps ruining everything for Diamond soshe runs away from home. Can they find her?

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Book SynopsisThe first four books in the charming and brightly illustrated Amy Wu picture book series are now together in a collectible hardcover boxed set! Funny, fierce, and fearless Amy Wu loves trying new things but sometimes gets caught up in wanting her efforts to turn out perfectly. Whether it’s making a delicious bao, crafting a dragon that expresses her culture, finding the words to welcome a new student, or learning to Chinese ribbon dance, Amy overcomes her doubts and enjoys the perfectly imperfect outcome of her endeavors with the help of her family and friends. This sweet hardcover boxed set includes:Amy Wu and the Perfect BaoAmy Wu and the Patchwork DragonAmy Wu and the Warm WelcomeAmy Wu and the Ribbon Dance

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Book SynopsisEvery family has its special aunt: the cool aunt, the wacky aunt, the scary aunt. But this family has ALL THE AUNTS. The escalating chaos of On Account of the Gum meets the grounded absurdity of Nothing Rhymes with Orange in Adam Rex's laugh-out-loud take on family reunions. Shhh, listen. Do you hear that? Oh no. Oh dear. Oh . . . my . . . godmother. They've traveled on planes, in taxis, and across state lines. And now they're here at the doorstep, a cheesy gift in one hand, the other poised for a pinch on the cheek. IT'S THE AUNTS! THE AUNTS ARE HERE. This hilarious, laugh-out-loud depiction of one girl's all-too-recognizable experience takes readers young and old on an emotionally bombastic staycation that celebrates the universal and endearing strangeness of our families.

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Book SynopsisFrom the creatorsof the New York Times–bestselling Ivy + Bean comes a fun and funny new series about two small sisters with very big imaginations. ★ — “Readers will long for a sibling like Marigold or Stella.” — Publishers Weekly, Starred Review   ★ — “All the heart. None of the pablum. Sisterhood at its finest and freshest.” — Kirkus, Starred ReviewGenerations of readers have fallen in love with Ivy + Bean, which has sold over 8 million copies and been adapted into a popular Netflix Original Film series. Now, bestselling author Annie Barrows and illustrator Sophie Blackall are back with the first book in a bright new series about a pair of sisters named Stella and Marigold. Stella, who’s seven, is kind, a good storyteller, and ponders big questions like, what do an

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Book SynopsisThe magical moments between a mother and her daughter as some of the most treasured memories you'll make. But what if your mummy happens to be a witch? This wonderfully witchy story is a cauldron of utterly charming ingredients told through the eyes of a little witchling. From dandelion ice-scream to pumpkin perfume and cauldron baths, and best of all a mummy who can wake up the sun and make the stars shine. PRAISE "A touching tale about a mother and her little witchling" - The Daily Express "Adorable storytelling, beautiful illustrations. An instant 'Moon Lane Classic'." - Tamara Macfarlane, Founder of the multi-awardwinning Moon Lane bookshops in London and Kent "A beautiful celebration of nature, magic moments & mums that do things differently." - Through The Wardrobe bookshopTrade Review"This book is a celebration of the ordinary moments shared and cherished between a mum and daughter, it's bubbling over with love, and I adore all the witchy details. Perfect for bedtimes, this gorgeously illustrated book in tones of peach and sage and lilac will send little ones off to a magical dreamworld where anything is possible." @milo_and_gigis_bookshelf via Instagram ; "Filled with imagination, comfort and love, 'My Mummy is a Witch' is a heartwarming picture book to share with little ones all year round. " - The Kids Books Curator ; "...the gentle rhyme makes this a really relaxing read, perfect to snuggle up with and savour those special moments." @mrsbrownsbookbox via Instagram ; "The story sparked my little boy's imagination, with him desperate to smell pumpkin perfume and have a bath in a cauldron. He is especially excited to follow the recipe at the back of the book to make dandelion ice cream!!" @thestayathometoddler via Instagram ; "Everything about the colours, the soft rhyming flow and even the font captivates you from page one! All I can say is finally a book about witches that isn't anchored in Halloween" @littlegreengem_ via Instagram ; "Both my 3 and 6 year old loved it" @wellies.and.wildflowers via Instagram ; "...this book has definitely jumped straight into my favourites!" @learningwithroman via Instagram ; "Jess Rose never fails to impress with her beautiful illustrations." @mammy_gittins via Instagram ; "What a lovely story about a Mummy and daughter who make such magical memories." @playtimewiththedavies via Instagram

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Book SynopsisLaurie's home-made beauty recipes are no secret. The secret is that her eco-warrior family get their ingredients from the bin. Laurie loves her family and she wants to join them in making the world a better place, one home-made bath bomb at a time. But right now, she doesn't want to be fishing her food out the bin. She just wants to go for a hot chocolate with her friends after school and be a normal kid. So when a competition comes to Silverdale High looking for the next best 'Business with a difference', and the most popular girl in school, wants to team up to sell Laurie's lotions and potions, she can hardly believe her luck. But can she find success and popularity without losing sight of her true self?Joanne O'Connell's Beauty and the Bin is a fresh and funny debut about friends, family, school and being a young eco-warrior.'Funny, warm, and just so refreshing . . . I loved this sparkling debut." Carlie Sorosiak, bestselling author of I, CosmoTrade ReviewFunny, warm, and just so refreshing. Laurie is a winning protagonist, with brilliant eco ideas. Truly, I loved this sparkling debut -- Carlie Sorosiak, bestselling author of I, Cosmo

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Book SynopsisThree dark sisters rise to fight. Allegiances shift. Bonds break. Secrets surface.Mirabella has returned to the capital, seemingly under a banner of truce.Katharine maintains her rule over Fennbirn – for now – but at huge personal cost. Arsinoe is lost, the responsibility of stopping the ravaging mist heavy on her shoulders.As oldest and youngest circle each other, and Katharine begins to yearn for the closeness that Mirabella and Arsinoe share, the dead queens hiss caution. They whisper that Mirabella is not to be trusted. But even they are drawn to her power . . .The fate of the island lies in the hands of its queens.Five Dark Fates is the epic conclusion to Kendare Blake's bestselling Three Dark Crowns series.Trade ReviewGorgeous and bloody, tender and violent, elegant, precise, and passionate; above all, completely addicting. -- Kirkus Reviews, on Three Dark Crowns. . . a superb start to what promises to be a new exciting young adult fantasy book series. * The Book Bag, on Three Dark Crowns *A brutal and inventive fantasy that is as addictive as it is horrifying. -- Marissa Meyer, NYT bestselling author of The Lunar Chronicles

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Book SynopsisIt''s summer at the Heartwood Hotel, and everyone is in a flurry getting ready for Ms. Prickles''s wedding to Mr. Quillson! Meanwhile, a new mouse guest named Strawberry comes to stay. She''s sweet and soft-spoken like Mona, and gifted in the kitchen just as Mona''s mother was-could Strawberry be a long-lost relative?But when lightning strikes part of Fernwood Forest and starts a fire, all thoughts go to the guests and staff hurrying to leave to make sure their homes and families are safe. Mona works to protect the Heartwood from harm, but as the fire rages on, it''s becoming dangerous to stay. Can Mona and her friends save their home before it''s too late?In the final installment of the Heartwood Hotel series, Mona faces her greatest challenge yet, and she might discover just what family truly means.

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Book SynopsisAll's fair in love, war and noodles! This delicious debut is perfect for fans of teen romcoms such as When Dimple Met Rishi and Jenny Han's To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before.What if Romeo and Juliet was set in a Vietnamese restaurant?Linh and Bao like each other. A lot. The only problem? Their families own rival pho restaurants and hate each other’s guts, so they have to keep their relationship a secret. But they can only steal kisses in dark alleys and the art room at school for so long. Can their love transcend an age-old feud and heal the rift between these two families? Or have these high school sweethearts bitten off more than they can chew?Praise for A Pho Love Story: '(A) warm, full-bodied take on the star-crossed-lovers rom-com genre' Kirkus Reviews 'Utterly delicious' Buzzfeed  

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Book SynopsisThe Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett is a magical novel for adults and children alike. This new hardback is one of five special Puffin Classics editions created in partnership with the world-famous V&A Museum, with exquisite cover designs from their William Morris collection.''I''ve stolen a garden,'' she said very fast. ''It isn''t mine. It isn''t anybody''s. Nobody wants it, nobody cares for it, nobody ever goes into it. Perhaps everything is dead in it already; I don''t know.''After losing her parents, young Mary Lennox is sent from India to live in her uncle''s gloomy mansion on the wild English moors. She is lonely and has no one to play with, but one day she learns of a secret garden somewhere in the grounds that no one is allowed to enter. Then Mary uncovers an old key in a flowerbed - and a gust of magic leads her to the hidden door. Slowly she turns the key and enters a world she could never have imagined.

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Book SynopsisA sequel to the universally acclaimed Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry, continuing in the story of the Logan family in Mississippi during the Depression. The children, especially Cassie, are happy in their warm, stable family but outside is a climate of fear and tension. Their friend T.J. goes on trial for murder and stands before an all-white jury. Cousin Suzella tries to pass for white, with humiliating consequences. And when Cassie''s neighbour stands up for her right to vote she and her cousin are driven from their home. Cassie is realising what it means to grow up black and powerless, but her family stand together, proving that courage, love and understanding can defy even the deepest prejudices.

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Book SynopsisAn emotional coming-of-age story about a young woman running away from herself while trying to find a way back. Deeply moving, authentically raw, and humming with the possibility of a new love.

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Book SynopsisBook 11 in the phenomenally bestselling Diary of a Wimpy Kid series is out now!The pressure''s really piling up on Greg Heffley. His mom thinks video games are turning his brain to mush, so she wants her son to put down the controller and explore his ''creative side''.As if that''s not scary enough, Halloween''s just around the corner and the frights are coming at Greg from every angle. When Greg discovers a bag of gummy worms, it sparks an idea. Can he get his mom off his back by making a movie . . . and will he become rich and famous in the process? Or will doubling down on this plan just double Greg''s troubles?

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Book SynopsisMs Alex brings out the makerspace trolley, and the class is excited to build robots! But competitive Ali wants to make it a contest, and his fuse runs short when things fall apart. After his meltdown, can Ali save the day, and his friendships, with a teamwork solution?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 SynopsisWaterproof, impossible to tear, easily washable - a cheerfully indestructible picture book introduces babies to the joys of Christmas.

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Book Synopsis*Shortlisted for the Children''s Book of the Year - Irish Book Awards*The laugh-out-loud funny children''s book from Number-One-Bestselling Ross O''Carroll Kelly author, Paul Howard. Illustrated throughout by Lee Cosgrove.An adventure full of mystery, magic and cheeses that seriously, SERIOUSLY pong!ALDRIN ADAMS is an ordinary boy with an EXTRAORDINARY SUPERPOWER. When he eats cheese just before he goes to sleep, he can enter into other people''s dreams . . . AND THEIR NIGHTMARES!But why has he got this power? And what is he supposed to do with it?HE NEEDS ANSWERS . . . AND FAST!What Aldrin doesn''t realize is that he is being watched by a MYSTERIOUS, SUPERNATURAL VILLAIN who''s creating nightmares for millions of children every night.Will an ordinary boy, armed with his pet frog and the STINKIEST CHEESE in the world, be enough to stop him?A brilliantly funny, heartwarming story, perfect for fans of David Baddiel and Sam Copeland.

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Book Synopsis'This heartwarming, witty and touching story is all about hope and belief . . . An absolute delight.' – Daily MailDiscover the power of true magic in this funny, exciting, big-hearted story by Caryl Lewis, the award-winning author of Seed and The Magician's Daughter. Perfect for boys and girls of 8 to 12. Illustrated throughout by George Ermos.After one hilarious, disastrous magic show too many, Abby’s dad decides it’s time to give up showbiz. Until the day Abby finds a mysterious, dusty old book of spells among her mum's things. Mum had always been the dazzling magician, after all. As Abby practises, each new spell brings wonder and joy, not only to Abby and her dad, but also to the whole community.Nothing lasts forever, though, and after each public performance another spell vanishes from the book. So before the magic disappears forever, Abby and Dad plan one final, spectacular, impossible show . . .Praise for Caryl Lewis's debut SEED:'Some books are about magic. Some books ARE magic' - Frank Cottrell-Boyce'A near-perfect blend of witty humour, rollicking adventure [and] compelling characters.' – Daily MailShortlisted for Breakthrough Children's Book of the Year, The Week Junior Book AwardsShortlisted for the Brandford Boase Award 2023Trade ReviewAn engaging story about the power of community and giving everyone a chance to shine. * The Bookseller *This heartwarming, witty and touching story is all about hope and belief, underpinned by the power of love to heal grief. An absolute delight. * Daily Mail *The Magician’s Daughter tackles important topics like bereavement, the shared comfort from being part of a community and the power of love to heal grief whilst delivering a heartwarming adventure full of colourful characters, stage dramas... and magic. The perfect book hug! * Lancashire Post *It will encourage children to love reading for it is a story which feels like a comforting warm hug in the form of a book. It is incredibly readable, accessible and a remarkably believable story given its subject matter. * Armadillo Magazine *An uplifting story that lots of children will be able to relate to. Reading it felt like a little bit of magic! * Books for Topics *A sparkling dose of wonder for our troubled times * Western Mail *This is a rousing call to find magic in the everyday. * BookTrust *This emotional rollercoaster of a book is perfect for readers who enjoy adventure. * National Geographic Kids *

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Book Synopsis''I want what the straight kids have. Even just for a couple of days . . .''Seventeen-year-old Max might be out and proud but he''s usually too busy checking his nail polish to check his privilege.So when he says he wishes he could have the ''easy'' life straight kids enjoy, Max gets more than he bargained for. He wakes up to find his wish has come true - not only have his feelings for boys vanished, so has his lifelong best friend Dean.With his world turned upside down and relationships in tatters, can Max find his way back to the life he took for granted, and maybe even win the heart of the guy he thought could never be his . . . ?What If It''s Us meets One Last Stop in this deliciously swoony queer romance. ''Outrageous, heartfelt, funny and tender, Straight Expectations is a thought provoking exploration of identity and what makes us who we are'' Simon James Green, author of Gay Club.''A refreshingly unique, beautifully queer take on a familiar trope, packed with endless adorable moments, sugar sweetness and laugh-out-loud hilarity. Don''t miss out on this utterly charming, heart-melting rom-com from a new voice to watch in the queer YA world!'' Sophie Gonzales, co-author of If This Gets Out.''Straight Expectations blends classic rom-com with a heartfelt examination of what it is to be queer, and how it''s so much more than just a matter of attraction'' LC Rosen, author of Camp.Trade ReviewBy turns outrageous, heartfelt, funny and tender, Straight Expectations is a thought provoking exploration of identity and what makes us who we are. Calum McSwiggan is a fabulous new voice on the YA scene. * Simon James Green, author of Gay Club *Straight Expectations blends classic rom-com with a heartfelt examination of what it is to be queer, and how it's so much more than just a matter of attraction. McSwiggan's love of his community and culture are on dazzling display here, in a well-crafted and swoony novel of learning to fall in love with yourself, as well as the cute boy. * LC Rosen, author of Camp *Straight Expectations is a refreshingly unique, beautifully queer take on a familiar trope, packed with endless adorable moments, sugar sweetness and laugh-out-loud hilarity. Don't miss out on this utterly charming, heart-melting rom-com from a new voice to watch in the queer YA world! * Sophie Gonzales, co-author of If This Gets Out *A delightfully queer page-turner with a powerful message, Straight Expectations should be on every rom-com reader's bookshelf. There's no shortage of heart, humor, and swoon-worthy moments in Calum McSwiggan's debut. * Robbie Couch, author of The Sky Blues *Freaky Friday meets Big in this thought-provoking teen romcom * Attitude *

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Book SynopsisA very ordinary boy. Nobody noticed him, he was just like everyone else.But Fred knew he was different.He just didn''t know quite how different.And when he did....Well, what then?

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Book SynopsisSuccessful film and TV star Chris O'Dowd collaborates with friend and fellow screenwriter Nick Vincent Murphy on Moone Boy: The Fish Detective, the second book in this hilarious illustrated series inspired by the Sky TV series they co-wrote.Martin's parents are strapped for cash: it's going to be a budget Christmas this year. So Martin plans to buy his own presents - and attempts, unsuccessfully, to get a job. Padraic puts in a word for him with his Auntie Bridget, who runs the local butcher's shop. But her shop is struggling as the fish shop across the road undercuts her, and Bridget just can't compete. No one knows how the owner, Francie Feeley, does it - especially since he doesn't seem to employ anyone at his fish factory. No one goes in; no one comes out - it's a mystery.Intrigued, Martin decides to go undercover and find out the truth, like a fish-mole - or a fish detective. Martin infiltrates the factory and discovers that F

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Book SynopsisLily and Blue Kangaroo a friendship forever!A heart warming festive story featuring Lily and her much-loved toy, Blue Kangaroo, from award-winning, renowned illustrator, Emma Chichester Clark.It's Christmas Eve, and Lily is excitedly wondering if Father Christmas will come. She has made cards for everyone, helped to decorate the house and put presents under the tree.This one is just for you, Blue Kangaroo! she says.Just for me! thinks Blue Kangaroo.But Blue Kangaroo doesn't have a present for Lily, and he lies awake worrying. Is there anyone who might be able to help?Trade ReviewPraise for the Blue Kangaroo series: ‘Irresistible… brimming with ‘Aaah’ factor.’ Bookseller ‘Blue Kangaroo is a winner.’ T. E. S. ‘Warm, funny and beautifully observed. Any family that hasn’t yet discovered Blue Kangaroo has a treat in store.’ Daily Telegraph ‘Blue Kangaroo is rapidly becoming an all-time classic children's character.’ Books For Keeps Praise for Merry Christmas Blue Kangaroo!: ‘This festive tale captures perfectly a young child’s excitement and anticipation growing as Christmas approaches … such a delight to read.’ BookLoverJo ‘Blue Kangaroo (and his helper) provide the touch of magic that will enchant the children.’ TheBookBag

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Book SynopsisRoberta, Phyllis and Peter have their comfortable lives in London thrown into disarray by the unexpected disappearance of their father. They are forced to move to a small cottage in the countryside with their mother, who struggles to make ends meet by writing books. The children find solace in a stretch of railway track and the station nearby, and befriend the railway porter, who teaches them about running the station, and an old gentleman who takes the 9.15 train every day. Through this love of the trains they are led on many exciting adventures, including a quest to discover the secret of their father's disappearance. One of the most popular children's books ever written, E. Nesbit's tale has enchanted generations of readers since it was first released in 1906. It has been adapted for the screen and the stage many times, and its story of innocence, intrigue and discovery remains perfectly poignant today.Trade ReviewNo childhood is complete without this novel. * The Telegraph *

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Book SynopsisNumber One for Fiendish Fun!This book contains a HORRIFIC hike, a time machine, a love letter and SNAILS for dinner!Four utterly hilarious and totally brilliant Horrid Henry stories by Francesca Simon, with illustrations by Tony Ross. An irresistible introduction to reading for pleasure.Trade Review'Francesca Simon's lovably evil anti-hero, Horrid Henry, and his grotesquely good younger brother, Perfect Peter, cross swords again in these four new stories. The best sees Horrid Henry duping Perfect Peter into believing the cardboard box in the sitting room really is a time machine. ...Francesca Simon presses all the right buttons' -- Katie Law EVENING STANDARD '...will make you laugh out loud. Francesca Simon's inventiveness ensures... each of the four new episodes of Henry's enjoyable awfulness and his brother Peter's namby-pamby virtuousness is freshly funny' -- Nicolette Jones SUNDAY TIMES 'Four new Horrid Henry stories for the holiday suitcase including Horrid Henry builds a time machine (wach out Perfect Peter) and Horrid Henry forced to go hiking. Will be top of my son's bag' ANGELS & URCHINS MAGAZINE Four hideously funny stories about the eternal battle between Horrid Henry and his brother Perfect Peter, involving tricks, pranks, revenge and an unexpectedly successful family meal at the snobby restaurant Le Posh. -- Amanda Craig SATURDAY TIMES 13.8.05 'wonderfully appealing to girls and boys alike, a precious rarity at this age' -- Judith Woods TIMES (Books) 27/8/05 'What is brilliant about the books is that Henry never does anything that is subversive. She creates an aura of supreme naughtiness (of which children are in awe) but points out that he operates within a safe and secure world. ...eminently readable books' -- Emily Turner ANGELS AND URCHINS MAGAZINE 'Another brilliant collection of utterly wicked and funny adventures from our favourite naughty boy... four fabulous new stories' CHILD EDUCATION MAGAZINE 'There's something wonderfully subversive about Henry and his horrid ways, which probably explains why so many children are utterly captivated by these funny stories. Perfectly pitched for younger readers, they never patronise even the youngest of readers. She also manages to inject just the right amount of mischievous fun into each naughty story to encourage readers to carry on to the next self-contained tale.' -- Damian Kelleher JUNIOR EDUCATION 'A well-designed book, with good pictures' -- Wendy Cooling CHILD EDUCATION MAGAZINE 'an especially clever collection which may just deflect fights under the Christmas tree for 6-9s.' -- Amanda Craig THE TIMES 'newly confident readers can't go wrong with Horrid Henry and the Mega-Mean Time Machine, featuring the adorably nasty brat and his frightful younger brother, Perfect Peter.' -- Katie Law EVENING STANDARD 19.12.05 'Henry is really naughty and makes me laugh. He's very funny and he has lots of adventures.' -- Martha, age 5 BELLA

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Book SynopsisIt's Saturday, and Jo has some pocket money to spend. So Jo and her mum go shopping, while Dad stays at home to make lunch for them all. But what should she spend her money on? She'll have to wait and see.Trade ReviewOne of those valuable resources that promotes positive attitudes towards cultural diversity. Implicit within the storyline and illustrations are clear messages celebrating difference, everyday experiences, friendship, community and families. || Eileen Browne's illustrations bring Jo, her family and the local neighbourhood to life. Eileen captures the different skin tones, hair styles and mannerisms very well. There is so much going on in each illustration that children and adults will find lots to talk about and discuss. Wait and See should be one of the first books all children read with their parents.

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