Children’s / Teenage fiction: Family and home stories

Book SynopsisNine-year-old Mattie is excited. Uncle Vez''s brother and his wife have come to visit! With their Australian guests, life in the Butterfield household is even more chaotic than usual. Mattie just has one worry on her Worry List ... Has Grandma met her match in Aunty Sheila?Trade ReviewMy Funny Family gets Funnier is the seventh book in the heartwarming and hilarious My Funny Family series * London Mums Magazine *

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Book Synopsis'Just  call me Bee. Please, please call me that. If you call me Beatrix  Daffodil Tulip Chrysanthemum Rose Edwards I shan't answer you. I am not  being rude or unfriendly, or insolent as Mrs Dixon my teacher calls me. I  just don't like my name. Well, would you?'  Bee stumbles through life in her stripy socks with her head in the clouds,  doing her very best to keep out of the way of her bickering parents and  avoid bendy tap dancing Crystal Kelly - who makes her life a  misery. But when Crystal double-dares her to volunteer for a sponsored  swim in honour of her great grandmother Beatrix's memory, Bee can't  back down. Even though she is terrified of water and cannot swim!  Then new boy Moon-Star gallops to Bee's rescue on his horse and takes  her to meet Old Alice, a Traveller who lives in a beautiful painted  wagon. As Bee enters this new world, her lifeTrade ReviewAnother brilliant book from the wonderfully talented Jane Elson * Chrissi Reads *Jane Elson has crafted a truly special story about overcoming fears, dealing with grief and the power of friendship. A wonderfully empathetic and moving read... * Book Lover Jo *I loved this book, the chapter structures, the language, the character development, the figure-of-eight shaped village, and most of all, Bee, as she gains in confidence under the supportive eye of those who show her they care. * Tanya Allsorts *...gripping story with dramatic moments leading to an intense, heart-stopping climax. -- Debbie Williams * Primary Times *Warm and dreamy with just the right amount of quirk for young readers to identify with if they feel like outsiders * Book Trust *Fantastically inspirational stuff about friendships and growing up. -- Phil May * Read it Daddy *Swimming to the Moon has it all. Cleverly written in first person, characters leap from the pages as real (and wildly imaginative) as can be ... A great story with fine structure, wonderful characters and a warm happy ending. * The School Librarian *

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Book SynopsisA celebration of the special relationship between father and child. From the creator of the bestselling Hugless Douglas series.One little lion cub can''t wait to grow up and do everything just like his daddy!Join little lion and daddy lion as they get up to all sorts of fun and silliness together, in this funny, touching story.The perfect Father''s Day or new dad gift.David Melling is the creator of the much-loved Hugless Douglas series. His books have been published in over 30 languages and sold more than 3 million copies.Trade ReviewAffectionate and comic * The Guardian *Enormous fun and a big hit * Carousel *Delightful * Reading Evening Post *My toddler ... squealed with delight * Waterstone's Books Quarterly *A humorous and touching tale from David Melling * Primary Times *A lovely picture book ... the father/child relationship is explored with warmth * Books For Keeps *A humorous tale withy funny illustrations... * Junior *A celebration of the father/child relationship. David Melling's approach is affectionate and comic... * The Guardian *This charming book ... had the whole family in stitches again and again. Enormous fun and a big hit. * Carousel, Issue 23 *Children adore his wacky illustrations and zany sense of humour * Your New Baby *Praise for David Melling:'lively illustrations of animals doing joyously batty things - making even our quietest toddler shriek with laughter.' * Carousel *Boldly and beautifully drawn * Limited Edition *A humorous and touching tale from David Melling. * Primary Times *

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Book SynopsisFrom Olympic gold medal winner Mo Farah and bestselling author of Oi Frog!, Kes Gray, comes a fun fiction series which will get kids reading, and running too!Mo and his friends are jogging in the local park when Mo suggests they run backwards for fun. But what they hadn''t bargained for was running back in TIME. There are DINOSAURS everywhere ... and they are hungry. Luckily Mo and his friends are wearing good trainers. It''s a good job they love to run! Follow Mo on his madcap adventures as his running skills go from strength to strength.The perfect book to share and read aloud.The nation watched with bated breath as Mo Farah seized Olympic gold in the 10,000m and 5000m - he''s been a national treasure ever since. In this adventurous series father of three, Mo Farah, combines two lifelong passions - literacy and exercise.Children''s books by Mo Farah: Ready Steady Mo, Go Mo Go: Monster Mountain Chase!, G

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Book SynopsisThe first in a magical, exciting series by Olympian and World Book Day ambassador Jessica Ennis-Hill. Perfect for fans of Rainbow Magic and My Little Pony! What if you had a special bracelet that gave you the power to talk to animals? One morning Evie gets a parcel in the post from her Grandma Iris in Jamaica. Inside layers of tissue and colourful ribbons is a beautiful bracelet! Evie''s going to need the bracelet - and a brave heart - when her friend meets a frightened silver unicorn. But she''s always ready to have some magical adventures! This is the first in a sensational seven-book series by Jessica Ennis-Hill, World Book Day ambassador and inspiration for kids everywhere. The full list of titles: 1. The Silver Unicorn2. The Enchanted Puppy3. The Sprites'' Den4. The Unicorn''s Foal5. The Clocktower Charm6. The Fire Bird7. The Golden SandsTrade ReviewThe first in a gentle, inclusive fantasy series ... featuring new school nerves and a grandmother's magical gift ... it's refreshing to see a mixed-race British heroine with a solid Yorkshire vocabulary, in a book which is clearly a labour of love * The Guardian *This is a good story for people who like a bit of magic and something less intense. * SCOOP Kids Magazine - Issue 24 *

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Book SynopsisThe second in a magical, exciting series by Olympian and World Book Day ambassador Jessica Ennis-Hill. Perfect for fans of Rainbow Magic and My Little Pony! What if you had a magic bracelet that allowed you to bring toys to life? Evie''s grandma has sent her another parcel. Inside layers of tissue and colourful ribbons is a beautiful bracelet! This time, the bracelet lets her bring things to life. But when a stuffed toy becomes a cute little puppy with a mind of his own, Evie and her friends are off on a magical adventure! Evie shares Jessica''s determination and drive - an inspiration for kids everywhere.The full list of titles: 1. The Silver Unicorn2. The Enchanted Puppy3. The Sprites'' Den4. The Unicorn''s Foal5. The Clocktower Charm6. The Fire Bird7. The Golden Sands

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Book SynopsisThe fourth in a magical, exciting adventure by Olympian and World Book Day ambassador Jessica Ennis-Hill. Perfect for fans of Rainbow Magic and My Little Pony: a bumper special edition, with extra quizzes and activities. What if you had a special bracelet that let you become invisible whenever you wanted? Evie''s grandma has sent her another parcel. Inside layers of tissue and colourful ribbons is a beautiful bracelet! A unicorn foal is lost in the park! Evie''s going to need the bracelet - and a brave heart - to help him. But she''s always ready to have some magical adventures! Evie shares Jessica''s determination and drive - an inspiration for kids everywhere.The full list of titles: 1. The Silver Unicorn2. The Enchanted Puppy3. The Sprites'' Den4. The Unicorn''s Foal5. The Clocktower Charm6. The Fire Bird7. The Golden Sands

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Book SynopsisNelly isn''t scared of monsters. In fact, she babysits for them. From the bestselling author of the OI FROG! and DAISY books comes this hilarious, action-packed series for fans of THE BOLDS and BARRY LOSER.''If monsters are real, how come I''ve never seen one?''''Because they never go out.''''Why don''t monsters ever go out?''''Because they can never get a babysitter.''Ever played hide and seek with an oozy orange Squurm, or ice-skated with a baby Thermitt? Every time Nelly rings on a new monster family''s doorbell she''s up for a new challenge. Come on her monster-sitting adventures in this laugh-out-loud funny second book in the NELLY THE MONSTER SITTER series. Kes Gray is one of the Independent''s top ten children''s authors, and winner of the Red House Children''s Book Award.This story now comes with brand-new illustrations; it was previously published in a collection entitled: Grerks, Squurms & Wat

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Book SynopsisThe final book in the 'snortingly funny' (Booktrust) Fire Boy series! It's not easy being an accidental superhero. Aidan (aka Fire Boy) and the circus are in trouble, once again. Aidan's nemesis, the billionaire Clayton Jones,  is spreading fake news throughout the world, painting Aidan as the bad guy.  With circus fans dwindling and the world turning against them, Aidan knows it's once again up to him to save the day. But to do see, he'll have to reveal the truth about Clayton Jones - and it looks like Clayton might have some special powers of his own... After the hilarity of Fire Boy and Pants on Fire, Fire Power is the perfect conclusion to the laugh-out-loud trilogy about unexpected superpowers, magical sweets, friendship and a cat named Lemon - for fans of My Brother is a Superhero and The Parent Agency.Trade ReviewThe momentum of this super-powered action comedy is maintained with short, punchy chapters that draw you in to a ludicrous plot mixing crime, unusual superpowers, circus tricks and classic goody versus baddy themes. Aidan has an enjoyably reckless nature, and it's a very fun read, but beneath the hilarity there are also some and interesting thoughts on family and friendship. * Booktrust *

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Book SynopsisWhen a mystery horse gallops on to a London housing estate in the middle of a storm, it will change four kids' lives for ever ... A heart-warming tale that celebrates neurodiversity and the power of alternative thinking from an author known for her honest, heartfelt and inclusive stories. Perfect for fans of Hannah Gold's The Last Bear and Carlie Sorosiak's I, Cosmo. For Daniel Margate, life is muddled because everything moves: letters, numbers, even classrooms sometimes. Daniel is dyslexic and most of the time, school just doesn't make sense. He's in the bottom reading group at school with other kids who are trying to make sense of it all. There's Akin who can't sit still for more than two minutes and is almost always getting into trouble, sports star Ste is recovering from a car accident that left him learning how to walk again and Molly-May's school uniform never fits and is a regular at the local foodbank. <

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Book SynopsisFor fans of My Brother is a Superhero and The Demon Headmaster comes an outrageously funny story of brain control, friends, enemies and saving the world, even if you don''t really want to.*From the award-winning writer of The Unbelievable Biscuit Factory*Leeza''s parents are ordinary. Unfit, grumpy, a bit embarrassing. Totally normal, right? Until today. Today they are jogging. Eating salads and enjoying them. Smiling all the time. They''re happy. Really, really happy. Who could complain about that? Leeza, that''s who. Because it looks like someone''s brainwashing everyone in town. Who''s going to save the world? Oh no! It looks like it might have to be Leeza. OK then. Let''s do this. You coming?By the author of The Unbelievable Biscuit Factory, winner of the Children''s Novel category in the Northern Writers'' Awards, this book is a must for anyone who wants something to make theTrade ReviewThe whole book feels really quirky and adventurous and I recommend that you give it a try. * First News *

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Book SynopsisA stunning new story from the bestselling, prize-winning David Almond, unfolding the magic of the everyday. Mina, from the unforgettable Skellig and My Name is Mina, journeys to Japan and discovers the wonders of the world around her. Kyoto, Japan. Mina is on a bus. Everything is strange and beautiful. Mina watches as a woman folds a piece of paper into an origami boat, then floats it over to her. As Mina discovers the magic of origami, her eyes are opened to the wonders of the real city around her. Unfold the magic of the everyday, on a journey with one of the world''s best-loved authors - with stunning illustrations from Kirsti Beautyman in black and orange throughout.''A master storyteller.'' Independent

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Book SynopsisShortlisted for the Yoto Carnegie Medal, the Jhalek Prize, the Inclusive Books for Children Award and the Little Rebels Award, and selected by Empathy Lab for The 2024 Read for Empathy Collection.A powerful and timely story, exploring the journey of two young refugee children in search of safety. Perfect for opening up conversations about conflict and war, encouraging empathy and understanding. A young boy and his older sister have left home to play a game. To win, she tells him, they must travel across endless lands together and make it to the finish line.Children they meet along the way imagine what might be waiting for them across the border: A spotted dog? Ice cream! Or maybe a new school. But the journey is difficult, and the monsters are more real than they imagined.And when it no longer feels like a game, the two children must still find a way to forge ahead, and reach the other side.Beautifully brought toTrade ReviewOne of the best picture books I've read in recent memory. Astounding. -- Steve Antony, creator of Mr PandaA thoughtful, profound, important book * Irish Independent *The perfect starting point to open up conversations about love and war * Belfast Telegraph *This book is beautiful. Beautifully illustrated. Beautifully told. -- Jarvis, creator of The Boy with Flowers in His HairI cannot recommend it enough - it is an incredible book -- Mark Bradley, creator of Bumble and SnugThe palette, the characters, the compositions, the message and author's note are simply impeccable -- Steven LentonThis perceptive and exquisitely illustrated picture book will leave its readers questioning the complex reality of child migrationA gorgeously rendered, heartbreaking look at one family's. migration experience * Kirkus Reviews *Powerful . . . a realistic but hopeful look at two children's emigration * Publishers Weekly *A powerful and moving story.

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Book SynopsisIn this story, Josh and Grandpa happily exchange letters and are looking forward to Grandpa visiting. Then Grandpa has to go to hospital, and Josh visits him instead... and brings him home.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 Green stories are perfect for children aged 4+ who are reading at book band 5 (Green) in classroom reading lessons.

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Book SynopsisEvan really wants to buy the rocket he sees in the shop window, but he needs to save up for it first!This story is part of Reading Champion, a series carefully linked to book bands to encourage independent reading skills, developed with Dr Sue Bodman and Glen Franklin of UCL Institute of Education (IOE).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.

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Book SynopsisJazz wants to help her mum and dad with the painting. They are happy for her to help, as long as she doesn''t make a mess!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.

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Book SynopsisThis story is part of Reading Champion, a series carefully linked to book bands to encourage independent reading skills, developed with Dr Sue Bodman and Glen Franklin of UCL Institute of Education (IOE)

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Book SynopsisThis story is part of Reading Champion, a series carefully linked to book bands to encourage independent reading skills, developed with Dr Sue Bodman and Glen Franklin of UCL Institute of Education (IOE)Mum and Dad want to go camping, but everything keeps going wrong, and Nish isn''t keen on it ... will they go camping after all?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.Perfect for 5-6 year olds or those reading book band blue 4.

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Book SynopsisThis story is part of Reading Champion, a series carefully linked to book bands to encourage independent reading skills, developed with Dr Sue Bodman and Glen Franklin of UCL Institute of Education (IOE)Lily and the Shed shows a girl determined to make the perfect den in an old shed - and with some hard work, she gets it just right!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. Perfect for 4-5 year olds or those reading book band red 2.

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Book SynopsisThis story is part of Reading Champion, a series carefully linked to book bands to encourage independent reading skills, developed with Dr Sue Bodman and Glen Franklin of UCL Institute of Education (IOE)No Ice Cream Left sees a boy and his mum looking everywhere for ice cream, but no one has any left. Perhaps Dad will be able to help!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. Perfect for 4-5 year olds or those reading book band red 2.

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Book SynopsisThis story is part of Reading Champion, a series carefully linked to book bands to encourage independent reading skills, developed with Dr Sue Bodman and Glen Franklin of UCL Institute of Education (IOE)Jumping in Puddles shows Harry, who loves jumping in puddles, find a puddle deeper than he thought!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. Perfect for 4-5 year olds or those reading book band pink 1a.

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Book SynopsisThis story is part of Reading Champion, a series carefully linked to book bands to encourage independent reading skills, developed with Dr Sue Bodman and Glen Franklin of UCL Institute of Education (IOE)Pass the Parcel shows the game in action and the parcel being passed around the children. Who will unwrap the final layer, and what is inside?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. Perfect for 4-5 year olds or those reading book band red 2.

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Book SynopsisFrom the award-winning author of THE BUBBLE BOY comes a heart-warming and unforgettable story? that follows one boy’s search for the perfect family, with surprising and unexpected results. Perfect for fans of Onjali Q. Rauf and Lisa Thompson. 'Friendship, laughter, suspense and more!' - Ross Welford, author of TIME TRAVELLING WITH A HAMSTER and THE 1000-YEAR-OLD BOY THINGS MY PERFECT PARENTS MUST HAVE: 1. A mega mansion like the ones footballers live in 2. A garage wall with a basketball hoop 3. No gerbils 4. Holidays to Disneyland All Sam wants is a family of his own, a home instead of a ‘house’ and parents he knows will still be there when he wakes up. Because Sam has been in and out of foster care his whole life and he can’t imagine ever feeling like he truly belongs. Then his best friend Leah suggests that rather than wait for a family to come to him, he should go out

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Book SynopsisWhen a town's Christmas wishes get mixed-up, can one little girl and her dog put them right?The little town of Pinewood can't wait for Christmas this year. Lily, James and Bug must work out which wish belongs to who, and sort everything out before Christmas Eve - otherwise no one will get what they want for Christmas.Trade ReviewMagical, funny and heartwarming, this is a hugely enjoyable festive read for you young readers - and who can resist the pug cover star? * The Bookseller (Children's Previews) *

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Book SynopsisThe third in Sir Chris Hoy's fantastically fun, magical cycling adventure series. The Hercules' Hopefuls are through to the next round of the cycling tournament, but there's a big problem. Bruce's Biscuits are expanding their factory - and building over the park where the team train!

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Book SynopsisLife on the farm is tough and life at school is even tougher, so when Fliss unearths Margot's wartime diary, she sees an opportunity to get her own back. But Fliss soon discovers Margot's life during the evacuation was full of adventure, mystery .Trade ReviewBeautiful, moving and witty * Cecilia Ahern, author of P.S. I Love You *Completely captivating and full of emotion * Lisa Williamson, author of The Art of Being Normal *Witty, intriguing and heartwarming * Non Pratt, author of Trouble *Dawson deftly intertwines stories from two generations to make an immensely readable whole...Dawson's understanding of adolescence and her attention to the details of different periods bring both protagonists stories sharply into focus and provide a satisfying emotional core, while a large cast and a busy plot drive the story along at a cracking pace. * Julia Eccleshare in The Observer *A family drama set in the not-so-far-away 1990s leadsto profound insights into our relationship with history when Fliss illicitly readsher grandmother Margot's Second World War diaries. Margot was once much likeher granddaughter: a bright, bossy, fashion-conscious young Londoner adjustingto life in rural Wales after a catastrophe . . . An account of Margot'spersonal losses make the wartime death toll real to Fliss, while the wise butspiky grandparent finds it easier to build bridges on paper than in person * Guardian *Is one of those stories that makes you feel special, like the author is sharing a secret with you. I would highly recommend this story to YA readers but also to historical fiction readers. Actually, scratch that. I highly recommend this story to everyone. I finished this story a couple of weeks ago already and I still find myself thinking about it constantly. A beautiful novel that will move many hearts. * Alba In Bookland *Margot & Me is Juno Dawson's best book to date. It was emotional and moving, I was sucked into the story and unable to put the book down. I loved the diary entries, it felt like they truly transported me back in time. It explored so many issues of the time; the racism and homophobia, as well as the everyday struggles of living during a time of war. * Reviews from a Bookworm *The perfect read for a Sunday afternoon * 100 Or Less *A well paced novel with adventure, mystery, tension and above all, love and hope. * Armadillo Magazine *Margot and Me is a book that should be read by the older generation, as well as the Young Adult audience that it's intended for. It'll open the eyes of those thinking teenagers are superficial and moody and make the younger audience realise that the older generation have experienced situations just like themselves and that they were young once! * A Book and Tea *When I was done reading, I just sat there clutching the book. I was tangled up in so many emotions, it took me a while to recover. It was such an intense book that buried so many secrets, I felt overwhelmed. That wasn't a bad thing, though. It means that Margot & Me truly embodied complexities of family, love, life, and more. The most poignant reminder I walked away with was this: We try so hard to steel ourselves and be numb to our feelings, that we end up forgetting what it means to feel anything at all. * Word Revel *There's depth to this book - I'm hesitant to spoil the story by revealing the many layers but there's so much to enjoy in there and think about. But be warned - this book is MOVING. I dissolved into sobs at chapter 26 on public transport. You will definitely need tissues. Juno Dawson's Margot And Me is a terrific, page-turning book for senior school kids and beyond. * My Book Corner *Margot & Me is a heart-wrenching, poignant novel, and I can't recommend it enough. If you enjoyed reading How Not to Disappear by Clare Furniss or Wing Jones by Katherine Webber, you should add Margot & Me to your TBR immediately. * Written Word Worlds *A brave and emotional novel covering topics such as family, love, death, bullying and more. I read Margot & Me in one sitting during a rainy day, and it was honestly the best book to curl up with. I became completely sucked into Margot's story, a bit like Fliss! With a few more bank holidays left this year, make sure to get your hands on a copy of Margot & Me, block out all non-urgent life commitments for a few hours and enjoy the journey you're taken on. * Famous in Japan *From the very first page of Margot and Me I was hooked by the main character, Fliss, and the smattering of nostalgic 90s references and I knew that this would be a book I wouldn't be able to put down. Sure enough I finished it in two epic sittings. In writing Margot and Me Juno set out to write a book that you would read curled up on the sofa, that would make you cry but leave you feeling rosy inside - and I can tell you that Juno has most definitely succeeded. * Sarah's Chapter *The people in both girls' lives are beautifully drawn and rounded, and their friendships, loves and heartbreaks make for an engrossing read. This is a wonderful book, suitable for readers of 12+, but it will be enjoyed just as much by adults as younger readers. I cannot recommend this book highly enough. * Historical Novel Society *Margot and Me had me laughing out loud (a rare feat) and ugly sobbing by the end. I can tell that this is going to be one I'll be rereading in the future, it was such a cosy read at the same time as being heart-stabbingly emotional. Grab a mug of tea and a box of tissues and you'll be all set to read my favourite release of 2017 so far. * Sarah's chapter *I highly enjoyed this read, not only did I laugh, I cried, I cringed and overall LOVED this book. Margot was a fantastic character because she wasn't your usual sweet and cuddly grandmother stereotype. She was tough as nails and had a real grit about her. Overall, I loved this book because of the heartbreak involved and the beautiful relationships along with the hard and negative ones. Another amazing book from the fabulous Juno Dawson, long may she reign as a YA must-buy author. * The BookMoo *Another fantastic book by Juno Dawson! Highly recommended. * Chrissi Reads *'In equal parts hilarious and tearjerking, this beautiful coming of age story set across generations is recommended to all lovers of contemporary and historical fiction.' * School Librarian Journal *In equal parts hilarious and tearjerking, this beautiful coming of age story set across generations is recommended to all lovers of contemporary and historical fiction. * School Librarian Journal *Dawson is a marvellous storyteller, and the book is unputdownable * INIS Reading Guide *Delightfully nostalgic * Inis Reading Guide *

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Book SynopsisBook Band: Gold (Ideal for ages 6+)A funny, magical story, ideal for children practising reading at home or in school.Manju''s stuck at home and she is BORED. Looking for entertainment, she summons the genie. When he turns up with a terrible cold, the genie can''t hear any of Manju''s wishes properly and his magic is even more strange than usual. Can Manju help him sort out the muddle? The characters from Manju''s Magic Wishes return in this quirky comedy from Chitra Soundar, perfect for Key Stage 1 (KS1) children who are learning to read by themselves. It features illustrations from Verónica Montoya and hilarious mishaps that children will love._______________Bloomsbury Young Readers are the perfect way to get children reading, with book-banded stories by brilliant authors like Julia Donaldson. The series is ideal for both home and school, with gorgeous colour illustrations, tips for parents, and fun activity ideas. Online guided reading and teachTrade ReviewPRAISE FOR BLOOMSBURY YOUNG READERS Written by favourite authors, these are well worth collecting and are just the thing for children ready for reading. -- Andrea Reece * Lovereading4kids *The entertaining children’s book revolves around a young girl who summons a genie who turns up with a terrible cold and that affects his magic. The fun story is accompanied by eye-catching illustrations that children will love. -- Mita Mistry * Eastern Eye *With its theme of kindness, this is such a fun story with amusing genie mishearing outcomes to entertain youngsters along the way. -- Jill R Bennett * Red Reading Hub *

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Book SynopsisBook Band: Brown - Ideal for ages 7+Thought-provoking contemporary fantasy from best-selling author Polly Ho-Yen.Mae spends a lot of time in hospitals. She''s had asthma since she was little and sometimes she just can''t breathe. She was in hospital the very first time she saw the hole - a tear in the universe which seems to appear only to her.Before she knows it she is drawn into a parallel world, where things aren''t quite the same...This powerful fantasy story is full of big ideas and a great way to talk about chronic illness with children. It has beautiful black-and-white illustrations from Patricia Hu throughout, and is ideal for children who are developing as readers. The Bloomsbury Readers series is packed with book-banded stories to get children reading independently in Key Stage 2 by award-winning authors like double Carnegie Medal winner Geraldine McCaughrean and Waterstones Prize winner Patrice Lawrence. With engaging illustrations and online guided Trade ReviewMy Other Life is a compelling, resonant little story of portals and parallel lives by Polly Ho-Yen, illustrated by Patricia Hu. -- The Guardian * Featured in the Children's Books Roundup *Thought-provoking and original [...] Another elegantly told story that will give readers lots to think about. * Books for Keeps *Polly Ho-Yen’s story presents readers with big questions about life and what’s really important to us. [...] The telling is simple, effective and guaranteed to catch and hold children’s attention, while the issues the story raises are complex and important, certain to prompt discussion (and there’s a list of questions to put to children at the end to help with this). -- LoveReading4Schools * Andrea Reece *This is an intriguing and affecting fantasy story that offers a wonderful and engaging way to talk to children about living with chronic illness. -- Children's Books Ireland * Mind Yourself Reading Guide *A fabulous short chapter book for anyone who has ever wished their life was different. ... Powerful and insightful, this is a book that needs to be read. -- Starlight and Stories * starlightandstories.com *This is a thought-provoking, powerful short story that offers opportunities to consider living with asthma, friendship, attitudes to an elderly relation, empathy, be careful what you wish for and the grass is always greener on the other side. -- Brenda Marshall * English Association *

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Book SynopsisBook Band: Purple (Ideal for ages 6+)A heart-warming family story, ideal for children practising their reading at home or in school.Little Bear lives with Daddy Bear at weekends, and usually they play games like Monster Chase and Daddy-is-a-Big-Climbing-Frame. But today, all Daddy Bear is doing is tap-tap-tapping on his keyboard. Waiting is so boring! Can Little Bear convince him to play? This charming story from Dawn McNiff is perfect for Key Stage 1 (KS1) children who are learning to read by themselves. It features fun illustrations from Andy Rowland and explores a topic many young children will relate to._______________Bloomsbury Young Readers are the perfect way to get children reading, with book-banded stories by brilliant authors like Julia Donaldson. The series is ideal for both home and school, with gorgeous colour illustrations, tips for parents, and fun activity ideas. Online guided reading and teaching notes, written by the CentreTrade ReviewPRAISE FOR BLOOMSBURY YOUNG READERS Written by favourite authors, these are well worth collecting and are just the thing for children ready for reading. -- Andrea Reece * Lovereading4kids *PRAISE FOR BLOOMSBURY YOUNG READERS My six-year-old, THE BOSS has just found her reading rhythm... THE BOSS got her hands on Bloomsbury Young Readers and suddenly, her reading took off. These are proper stories that are a manageable step up from picture books, while keeping all the colour and fun. -- Leisa Stewart-Sharpe * My Book Corner *Let’s Play, Daddy Bear! is a warm-hearted story with equally warm illustrations of a young bear that spends weekends at her father’s home where they play fun games like Monster Chase and Daddy-is-a-Big-Climbing Frame. -- Jill R Bennett * Red Reading Hub *

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Book SynopsisBook Band: Dark Blue (Ideal for ages 9+)The story of a family of fishermen doing their best to make ends meet in a small Indian villageHari's family make their living from fishing, but with no fish left in the bay, times are really hard. To catch the fish further away they need a better boat, but to get a better boat they need to sell fish Despite family feuds and village superstitions standing in his way, Hari doesn't give up, and it isn't long before help arrives from the most unlikely source. This thought-provoking story from Pratima Mitchell has engaging black-and-white illustrations by David Dean and is perfect for children who are developing as readers.The Bloomsbury Readers series is packed with brilliant books to get children reading independently in Key Stage 2, with book-banded stories by award-winning authors like double Carnegie Medal winner Geraldine McCaughrean and Waterstones Prize winner Patrice Lawrence covering a wide range of genres and topicsTrade ReviewAny list that brings together such a quality line up of authors is going to be welcomed … Bloomsbury Readers are aimed squarely at children in Key Stage 2 and designed to support them as they start reading independently and while they continue to gain confidence and understanding. -- Andrea Reece * Books for Keeps *

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Book SynopsisKnitbone Pepper and his ghostly animal friends are thrilled when a vintage plane lands at Starcross Hall, bringing with it Martin the hamster's beloved ghostly owner. But this visitor is a human ghost, and that means only one thing mischief!

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Book SynopsisMeet Knitbone Pepper, the dead special ghost dog haunting Starcross Hall! Knitbone has a problem. His beloved owner Winnie and her bonkers parents may be forced to move and leave Knitbone behind! Can the Spirits of Starcross, a gigglesome gang of ghostly animals, help Winnie save her home?

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Book SynopsisA New York Times bestseller! The perfect Father''s Day gift, birthday present for dad, Valentine''s Day book, or sweet keepsake for a daughter of any age!A sweet picture book showcasing all the ways a father will help his daughter grow, this is the gift for every girl dad and little girl to celebrate their special bond. Featuring charming animal illustrations and heartwarming rhymes about the moments fathers and daughters share, Why a Daughter Needs a Dad is the perfect story to connect father and daughter together.From the first time I held you, so perfect and new,I promised to do everything that I could doTo help you become your most wonderful YOU,My darling, my daughter, my girl.For new dads, fathers-to-be, or for that perfect father-daughter moment, this sweet storybook celebrates how a father is always there for his little girl. reminding her to be artistic, thoughtful, honest, and smart, but most of all, true to h

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Book SynopsisLucy and Henry are brother and sister. They may be twins, but that doesn’t mean they do everything the same way. From time on the swings to crawling through tunnels, a day at the park is double the fun when they’re together. Delightful illustrations and simple, rhythmic text combine to make a wonderful first book about twins. Pages are made of strong paper, ideal for little readers.Trade Review“In both the text and the illustrations, the narrative is pared down to essentials, making the book highly accessible to its audience. While older preschoolers may appreciate flights of fancy, very young children will enjoy seeing their everyday experiences reflected in this satisfying picture book.” —Booklist

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Book Synopsis"After her parents? divorce, Mabel feels topsy-turvy living between two homes and struggles to understand her anxiety and frustration, until a weekend caring for the class pet makes her realize that having more than one home may not be so bad after all. Illustrations."

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Book SynopsisThen Again, Maybe I Won't is a classic coming-of-age story from the boy's perspective, from Judy Blume, the author of Are You There, God? It's Me, Margaret.Tony Miglione is thirteen, living in a cramped house with his family in New Jersey. But then, when his Dad invents something that makes them rich, Tony finds himself suddenly moving into a luxury home on Long Island. But being rich brings it's own problems – Tony's grandma feels useless when she doesn't have to cook any more, and his mum is obsessed with impressing the neighbours, but Tony knows the boy next door isn't as perfect as he looks. The only upside to his new life is that his neighbour Lisa keeps undressing with the light on. As he tries to adjust to his new life Tony starts to suffer from anxiety attacks and wishes everything would just be normal again . . .

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Book SynopsisHow to be Luminous is a heart-wrenching story about the aftermath of tragedy and the power of self-belief and love. Harriet Reuter Hapgood's beautiful writing radiates with colour.When seventeen-year-old Minnie Sloe's mother disappears, so does her ability to see colour. How can young artist Minnie create when all she sees is black-and-white? Will her mysterious ailment – and grief – stop her from following in her mother's footsteps and becoming a famous artist?Middle child Minnie and her two sisters have always been able to get through anything together – growing up without fathers, living the eccentric artist lifestyle, and riding out their mother's mental highs and lows. But losing their mother irrevocably breaks them, and Minnie wonders if she could lose everything: her family, her future, her first love . . . and maybe even her mind.

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Book Synopsis'It's good that I've found this secret place . . . No one can get to to me up there. It's totally safe.'In real life, Jake is never safe. He lives in constant fear of his mother's violent boyfriend. But in his imaginary tower he can dream up his own father - the stranger who gave him a cuddle and a fluffy duck the day he was born and went away for ever. Jake doesn't believe dreams ever come true. But sometimes they do - in strange and surprising ways.Shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal, Jake's Tower by Elizabeth Laird is a powerful and moving novel that spotlights the issue of domestic abuse.

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Book SynopsisIn the summer we all fell in loveBy the winter we had fallen apartFor Quinn and her sister, Fern, and brother, Reed, summer means working as counselors at their family's summer camp: months of bonfires, bunks, and friendships made and broken. But last summer was different. Last summer they all fell in love with the same boy – Dylan, their best friend since forever, suddenly seen through new eyes. Six months later and everything has changed. The summer camp is empty and covered in snow, and Quinn, Fern and Reed aren't speaking to each other anymore. Something happened that summer that tore them apart, and their memories won't let them forgive.Wild Blue Wonder is the gorgeous, achingly beautiful novel from Carlie Sorosiak, author of If Birds Fly Back.Trade ReviewLovely and heartbreaking -- Jennifer E. Smith, author of The Statistical Probability of Love at First SightFilled with science, summer camps and secrets, this is an uplifting and touching look at grief, guilt and giving yourself permission to love again. -- Lauren James, author of The Next Together and The Loneliest Girl in the Universe

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Book SynopsisThe Broken Bridge is an insightful and heartfelt story of a teenager's search for her own identity in the face of heartbreaking family secrets by Philip Pullman, author of the award-winning Northern Lights.Sixteen-year-old Ginny's life is secure. Her mother is dead, but she's inherited her outstanding artistic talent, and she loves her life with her father in a seaside village in Wales. But the day a social worker arrives and old files are re-opened, Ginny's world cracks apart. Everything her father has told her about her family is a lie. And Ginny must uncover the hidden secrets of the past on a journey that will ultimately lead her to the mother she's never known . . .

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Book SynopsisHalloween hijinks, hauntings and hamsters in Boy Meets Ghoul by Birdie Milano, the hilarious sequel to Boy Meets Hamster.It’s October half-term, and Dylan Kershaw’s dreams of a reunion with Leo, the gorgeous boy he met over the summer, are dashed when his sports-mad dad whisks him off to football camp in Manchester instead. What’s worse, dancer Leo seems to be too busy practicing his pirouettes to care. At least Dylan’s best friend Kayla is along for the trip, on a quest to win exclusive tickets to see her favourite band, the Deathsplash Nightmares.It all looks set to be a tedious trip, until Dylan's long-time crush Freddie Alton shows up at football camp and Kayla discovers that the Nightmares are staying in the very same hotel as they are . . .'A fresh, modern, LGBTQ+ YA novel about a tale as old as time - that first gay crush' – Justin Myers, author of The Last Romeo on Boy Meets Hamster

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Book SynopsisSophie Cameron's Out of the Blue is a story of love and acceptance and finding your place in this world, as angels drop out of another. When angels start falling from the sky, it seems like the world is ending. But for Jaya the world ended when her mother died, two weeks before the first angel fell.Smashing down to earth at extraordinary speeds, wings bent, faces contorted, not a single angel has survived and, as the world goes angel crazy, Jaya's father uproots the family to Edinburgh, intent on catching one alive. But Jaya can't stand his obsession and, struggling to make sense of her mother's sudden death and her own role on that fateful day, she's determined to stay out of it. Then something extraordinary happens: an angel lands right at Jaya’s feet, and it’s alive . . .Set against the backdrop of the frenzied Edinburgh festival, Out of the Blue tackles questions of grief and guilt and fear over who we really are.Trade ReviewIdeal for fans of Laini Taylor * Buzzfeed *A strong infusion of magic and wonder * Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review *a unique, charming novel by a powerful writer who moves easily between abrasive teenage wit and unsentimental, lyrical insights into grief. * BookTrust *A magical tale * iNews *a charming debut, radiant with humanity and heart * LoveReading *

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Book Synopsis*Winner of the Opera Prima Bologna Ragazzi Prize 2020*A stylish and funny search-and-find adventure with a twist, packed with twin-sister mischief.The store is a riot of dots and stripes, patterns and checks, so it's not easy to find one little girl in a spotty dress. Children will love finding Harriet on every page as the madcap chase moves from the fashion floor to home furnishings and into the toy department. More and more people join in until at last naughty Harriet is reunited with her family.Jam-packed with action and details to find and spot, Where Is Your Sister? is a strikingly confident debut from Puck Koper. Her blue, red and black artwork is printed in eye-catching pantone inks, and her remarkable eye for composition and funny characters marks her out as a talent to watch.

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Book SynopsisA Reese Witherspoon Book Club YA Pick!Tokyo Ever After by Emiko Jean is a hilarious and heartfelt novel perfect for fans of To All the Boys I've Loved Before and The Princess Diaries.Izumi Tanaka has lived an uneventful seventeen years in her small town, keenly aware of all the ways in which her family is different from most of her classmates. But then Izumi discovers a clue to her previously unknown father’s identity . . . and he’s none other than the Crown Prince of Japan.Soon she’s traveling overseas to meet the father she never knew and discover the country she's only dreamed of. But being a princess isn’t all ball gowns and tiaras. There are conniving cousins, a hungry press, a scowling but handsome bodyguard who just might be her soulmate, and thousands of years of tradition and customs to learn practically overnight. Izzy soon finds herself caught between worlds, and between versions of herself – back home, she was never “American” enough, and in Japan, she must prove she’s "Japanese" enough. Will Izumi crumble under the weight of the crown, or will she live out her fairytale, happily ever after?Trade ReviewA completely irresistible read. * Independent *A refreshing and spot-on depiction of Japanese Americans exploring their heritage, with appeal far beyond female Asian readers. * Booklist, starred review *A fresh, funny, emotive, inspiring and empowering #OwnVoices triumph * Shelf Awareness *

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