Children’s / Teenage fiction: Family and home stories

Book SynopsisJ.C. can't wait to go and play at the park. But when Mum spots a new neighbour in need of help, she says their outing will have to wait. Can J.C. find a way to have fun and be a good neighbour?Life in the big city is full of fun for seven-year-old Jalen Corey Pierce. Between adventures with his two best friends, Amir and Vicky, and new experiences with his family, J.C. is always learning new things and exploring city life. These easy-to-read stories, featuring a glossary, discussion questions, and writing prompts, are perfect for curious young readers everywhere.

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Book SynopsisLola attempts to avoid a Day of the Dead disaster in another adventure celebrating her Guatemalan heritage!Lola is excited for Halloween, but Mama is sad to be missing the holiday she loved in Guatemala: the Day of the Dead. Then Lola's family is invited to a Day of the Dead party! But when Lola discovers that a Guatemalan dish called Fiambre is on the menu, she panics. She doesn't like her foods to touch, and she really doesn't like beetroot or sardines! With Abuelita's help, can Lola find the courage to share in the celebration and try something new? Readers will delight in meeting Lola, her family and friends in this charming chapter book from the Hola Lola series, focused on family, heritage and cultural exploration.

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Book SynopsisA visit to the zoo opens Jina's eyes to an endangered species in her very own local area. She finds out she gets to help with a project to save this animal. But there's a small problem. The animal is far from being cute and cuddly like her beloved pandas. Will Jina overcome her reluctance and make a difference after all?

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Book SynopsisSadiq wants to earn money to buy a birthday gift for Hooyo. A lemonade stand provides inspiration and, after some business advice, Sadiq, Zaza and Manny start a cookie delivery business! Sadiq's brother and sister join in to help, but starting a business turns out to be tricky... and messy! With a sick baker, a cookie crash and other baking boo-boos, will Sadiq's cookie biz be a bust? Somali-origin author Siman Nuurali offers another installment in the delightful Sadiq chapter book series.

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Book SynopsisBetty the Yeti is thrilled when her twin brothers, Freddy and Eddy, let her play the Ghostly Shadows video game with them. But when the siblings stay up too late and Betty''s mind is filled with ghostly worries, will she find a way to face her fears?Part of the Betty the Yeti early chapter book series, in which Betty the Yeti adjusts to life in her new city home - making friends, going hiking, planting flowers and trying new things. Packed with humour and subtle social and emotional learning, Betty the Yeti shows readers it''s okay to stand out and be different, while also staying true to yourself!

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Book SynopsisA lovable story filled with mommy-and-me moments and fun date with Mom ideas! In the busy Bunny household, it''s hard for Bubby to get any alone time with Mom. But there''s no bunny like Bubby, and he hatches a plan that leads to dedicated time with Mom and the hoppiest of hearts. A romping tale from beloved author-illustrator Kristi Valiant that is sure to leave you feeling warm and fuzzy inside, No Bunny Like You is a sturdy board book for boys and girls, ages 0 to 4; includes cute rhyming text and adorable bunny artwork; is a great gift for Valentine''s Day, Easter, or Mother''s Day; and is a great option for a nursery display, to fit into a baby-shower gift basket, or for reading during snuggle time. Whether you''re celebrating a special occasion or just want to create lasting memories with your little ones, this book is sure to inspire you to plan your own mommy-and-me (or daddy-and-me) adventure.<

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Book SynopsisA lyrical, captivating and beautiful picture book by Carnegie Medal-winner David Almond, illustrated by Kate Greenaway Medal-winner Levi Pinfold.When a great dam was built by the Kielder Water in Northumberland, the valley below slowly filled with water. But just before this, when the villagers had been moved out, two musicians went back to the abandoned valley. They tore down the boards over the houses, stepped inside and started to play for this would be the last time that music would be heard in this place. In this astonishing picture book that combines themes of loss, hope and music David Almond pays homage to all musicians, showing the ancient and unstoppable power of creativity.Trade Review“Expect goose bumps from this original story, which suggests that nostalgia is crucial — so long as you don’t let it stall you. Big ideas for this age group, but told in a simple, memorable way. Almond and Pinfold give each other just the right amount of room to breathe, and it’s dam good.” * The Times, Children’s Book of the Week *“This is, to be sure, a literary and art-led children’s book, but one with great depth, and the fact that it captures a true story will be of interest to all.” * BookTrust *“A poignant collaboration […]” * The Guardian *“Both brooding and enchanting…” * The Financial Times *“It can be read to your child in five minutes, but it’s likely to leave them pondering for days.” * The Big Issue *“Mesmerising. Classic Almond territory.” * Angels and Urchins *“A book to pore over and return to again and again.” * Carousel Christmas Guide 2018 *“The artwork is remarkable - each page full of atmosphere and deep emotion. A triumph.” * The Irish Independent *“This is a wonderful story about man and his environment, how we remember, and how we adapt to change.” * The School Librarian *

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Book SynopsisSeventeen year old Jonah Daniels has lived in Verona Cove, California, his whole life, and only one thing has ever changed: his father used to be alive, and now he's not. Now Jonah must numbly take care of his family as they reel from their tragedy. Cue next change: Vivi Alexander, new girl in town. Vivi is in love with life. A gorgeous and unfiltered hurricane of thoughts and feelings. She seems like she's from another planet as she transforms Jonah's family and changes his life. But there are always consequences when worlds collide A fierce and beautiful love story with a difference, When We Collided will thrill fans of All the Bright Places and I''ll Give You the Sun.Trade ReviewA fabulously entertaining story of friendship, healing, and love. Filled with laughter, heart, and a side of sass, this rock star debut will have you cheering for an encore! * Elizabeth Eulberg, author of Better Off Friends, on Open Road Summer *Lord’s debut provides an insightful take on friendship, romance, and celebrity culture * Booklist on Open Road Summer *

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Book SynopsisA contemporary romance that hits all the right notes the gorgeous first novel by Emery Lord, author of When We Collided, The Names They Gave Us and the Zoella & Friends 2017 Book Club title The Start of Me and You.After finishing with her bad-news boyfriend, Reagan O'Neill is ready to leave her rebellious ways behind. Reagan's best friend and country superstar Lilah Montgomery is about to kick off her 24-city tour, and Lilah is nursing a broken heart of her own so this is a perfect opportunity for a girls-only summer of break-up ballads and healing hearts.But when Matt Finch joins the tour as its opening act, his boy-next-door charm proves difficult for Reagan to resist, despite her vow to live a drama-free existence ... This summer, Reagan and Lilah will navigate the ups and downs of fame and friendship as they come to see that giving your heart to the right person is always a risk worth taking.Perfect for fans of Jennifer Niven, Jandy Nelson and Rainbow Rowell.Trade ReviewReads like an ode to unconditional love that will keep readers firmly believing in believing * Booklist, praise for OPEN ROAD SUMMER *A fabulously entertaining story of friendship, healing and love. Filled with laughter, heart and a side of sass, this rock star debut will have you cheering for an encore! * Elizabeth Eulberg, author of BETTER OFF FRIENDS, praise FOR OPEN ROAD SUMMER *A five-star must-read romance * USA Today, praise for WHEN WE COLLIDED *A beautiful, emotional read * Maximum Pop, praise for WHEN WE COLLIDED *Searingly honest, gut-wrenchingly authentic, and deeply romantic, When We Collided is a gift of a novel. It tackles tough topics with nuance, and will make readers both laugh and cry, sometimes within the span of a page * Jasmine Warga, author of MY HEART AND OTHER BLACK HOLES, praise for WHEN WE COLLIDED *A sweet story of love and loss ... The author is gentle with Paige as she struggles to redefine herself both in school and at home, as well as figure out who understands her best as she stumbles toward new romance * Publisher’s Weekly, praise for THE START OF ME AND YOU *

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Book SynopsisFrom the author of A Room Full of Chocolate comes a heartwarming story about identity and courage, and a tremendous young girl who cares for her alcoholic mother. For fans of Jacqueline Wilson and Sarah Lean. Nell Hobs lives with a tortoise called Bob Marley, guinea pigs Asbo and Chaos, goldfish Beyoncé and Destiny, gerbils Fizz and Tyrone, Aunty Lou the Hamster ... and her mum, who drinks too much. Nell does everything she can to be a good daughter so that her mum will stop. But when things get really hard, Nell stands on her head. Everything looks better upside down, don't you know? Nell wishes she knew who her dad was. When new teacher Mr Samuels makes history come alive and tells the class the story of Nell Gwynn, the Orange Girl who became one of the first actresses on the London stage, Nell is captivated and is determined to dress up as an Orange Girl for the Costume Parade.  She hatches a plan with her best friend Michael: a waTrade ReviewAn emotional roller-coaster of a story with a courageous and caring heroine. * Parents in Touch *The book that I would like to choose is Will You Catch Me? by Jane Elson. I loved it for the heroine, Nell, who tells her story as 'the only naturalist on the Beckham Estate'. Nell has many problems, but also many friends. Her voice is perfect; you can hear her speak beside you as you read, wise, hilarious, brave and stubborn. A North London Anne of Green Gables: less poetry, more minibeasts, identical charm! -- Hilary McKay for Booktrust * BookTrust *This is a moving tale of friendship, wildlife, conservation, families, love and alcohol abuse. Its a tale of bravery - self belief and how friends can sometimes pull together to make things right. It is also the story of imagination and Nell Gwyn - a companion to King Charles II - a fascinating character, of whom I knew a little, but now know so much more.This is the story of a modern day Nell whose mother tries hard to be someone she can admire. To be the mother Nell needs, but things are not easy. Nell spends her days caring for her mum, hoping to trace her dad, and nurturing any wildlife she comes across that need respite or care.Her friend Michael lives nest door with his brother, aids and abets her - an inventor with wild and glorious ideas which means that at school he is often signing the punishment book, staying late for detention and generally getting into scraps. His brother is exasperated by him and can't believe it when he finds that all his laces from his boots have been stolen away to be used in Michael's latest invention - to help Nell feed all her small creatures.There are too many children affected by their parent's addiction to alcohol. This is a story for them, for those with whom they make contact, with whom they hopefully get help and understanding.This is a story of hope. * Sue Chambers - A Bookseller *

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Book SynopsisFrom the author of New York Times bestseller and major motion picture The DUFF, comes Thelma and Louise for a YA audience.Trade ReviewThe powerful friendship is what sings in Keplinger's novel, even as secrets start emerging * Bustle.com *

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Book Synopsis''The middle grade book everyone''s going to be obsessed with this summer'' Louie Stowell, author of LokiFor fans of ONWARD and A Monster Calls, this is an unmissable illustrated story about grief and love for young readers 9 and up.Sadé has always loved escaping to her imaginary, rainbow-bright world. When her mum dies, the colours in her mind fade like old jeans, and her shadow beasts appear: Tiger with black claws, Hen with cracked feathers, Fox with giant hind legs and Lion with piercing blue eyes. The shadow beasts are trouble. They follow Sadé to school and cause chaos wherever they go. Then Sadé joins a grief support group to work through her emotions, and slowly her beasts retreat. But just as it''s her turn to perform her poetry at the school talent show, they''re back, larger and stronger than ever ... can Sadé find the words to remember her mum in her own unique way, and banish her shadow beasts for good?Trade ReviewA beautiful story that tackles big feelings in an accessible and relatable way. * BookTrust *

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Book SynopsisIf you receive a letter telling you your father has died, what do you do? Anna's father left when she was very young and Anna, now 16, is living with her ambitious, unemotional, scientist mother. Then she receives a letter from her father's current girlfriend, Edie, with some shocking news: her father has died.Trade ReviewThis slim volume is packed with deceptive relationships and bad decisions made through fear, and will cast a chill over the sun lounger despite some implausible resolutions -- Geraldine Brennan * Theguardian.com *A compelling story of an unlikely friendship surrounded by secrets and lies, The Yellow Room is a smart and well written novel that is hard put down. I thoroughly enjoyed it and would highly recommend * The Bookbag *A realistic look at the deteriorating relationship between a mother and daughter. Be careful who you trust with your secrets, because they might just use to bring you down. If you're looking for a super creepy page turning contemporary, then this is the one for you * Serendipity Reviews *The Yellow Room is so engaging. You know something isn't quite right, but you're not quite sure what. You know it'll end badly, but you're not quite sure how it will end * Luna's Little Library *The language and style of The Yellow Room was perfectly suited for the plot (...) I would recommend it for young teens at 13 years old and above, as it is an enjoyable thriller without the gore that comes associated with the adult genre * famousinjapan.co.uk *Not knowing what you're in for makes this book so much more unputdownable (...) The Yellow Room was such a thrilling, captivating novel and I honestly didn't expect to love it as much as I did. The pacing was fantastic, the characters were intriguing and realistic, and there were moments when I wasn't sure who I could trust...a thought-provoking read that gets more intense with the turn of every page (...) If you're a fan of contemporaries with a dark twist, I can't recommend this novel enough' * Written Word Worlds (Australia) *Utterly gripping. A taut contemporary thriller. * The School Librarina *a fantastically creepy to story to watch unwind. * The Pool *

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Book SynopsisNumber one for fiendish fun! On the first day of Christmas Horrid Henry gave to me .... 12 festive stories!Count down to Christmas with Horrid Henry and friends in this bumper collection of festive stories! This book contains twelve of Henry's most mischievous winter tales about swapping Christmas presents, sabotaging school plays, ruining Christmas dinner and even ambushing Father Christmas! An irresistible introduction to reading for pleasure - the perfect gift for Horrid Henry fans everywhere.

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Book SynopsisFrom the author of JOE ALL ALONE - a BAFTA winning and Emmy nominated CBBC series.A story about finding yourself when everything changes and believing that love never runs out. Perfect for fans of A Boy called Hope and Jacqueline Wilson.Eleven-year-old Birdy Jones is all alone. She doesn't belong at school, at home, or even with her dad anymore. The only place she feels like herself is at her grandpa's pigeon loft, where the familiar warmth and birdsong block out the world. It's also where she meets Dogger - her only friend and the one person who really seems to know where she's coming from.Birdy used to be happy, when it was just her and Dad, but now she has a stepmum, a little sister, and another baby on the way. Worse, her growing family needs to move house, but Birdy doesn't believe there'll ever be enough room for her in Dad's busy life - and she can't leave Grandpa and the pigeons. She won't.Birdy dreams of a different family and future, and with Dogger's help she decides to find one - even if it means running away from everything she's ever known. But sometimes you need to fly away to find your way home again . . .Trade ReviewA poignant story of family, friendship and the things that matter, with an audacious heroine * Guardian *A great tale of home, homing birds and belonging . . . drenched in atmosphere . . . full of heart * BITE-SIZE BOOKS *Insightful and perceptive, this is an excellent read about contemporary issues with superb characters and thought-provoking scenarios. * Parents in Touch *I don't mind admitting that I bawled my eyes out over Where Do You Go, Birdy Jones? It's just so lovely and heartfelt and genuine [...] There's so much to love about this story [...] I won't forget Birdy Jones for a long time. -- Jill Murphy * The Book Bag *This is such a lovely story and Birdy is a wonderfully strong girl [...] It's enough to make you cry. * The Bookwitch (blog) *A story about finding yourself when everything changes. * The Bookseller *'A tender, unsentimental adventure, filled with family ties, love and courage' * Guardian on THE INCREDIBLE BILLY WILD *'A real boy's voice, nailed hard to a tale rich with wrong decisions, hopeless plans andstabs at redemption. I loved it' * Steve Cole on JOE ALL ALONE *'An insightful, gripping, character-driven novel about peer pressure and the conflict between wanting to fit in and standing up for yourself ... As the novel builds to a tense, emotional climax, you'll be on the edge of your seat' * Joanne Owen - LoveReading4Kids - on WHITE LIES, BLACK DARE *

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Book SynopsisJo’s Boys (1886) is a novel by American author Louis May Alcott. Written while Alcott was living in the historic Thoreau-Alcott House in Concord, Massachusetts, Jo’s Boys picks up ten years after the events of Little Men, which followed the young sons of Jo Bhaer (née March) and Professor Friedrich Bhaer at their newly established Plumfield Estate School. As with the rest of the series, Jo’s Boys was inspired by the educational reforms theorized and practiced by her father. Plumfield boys Tommy, Emil, Nat, Dan, Demi, Rob, and Ted have all grown up, taking with them into the world the lessons they learned at the Plumfield Estate School. Split into sections following the lives of each young man, Jo’s Boys traces the impact on Jo and Friedrich Bhaer’s experimental form of education across a number of diverse—and often difficult—situations. Each character navigates the realities of college, marriage, and work with varying degrees of success, often finding that what they can most rely on is a well-grounded sense of morality, as well as a strong and abundant understanding of themselves as individuals. Emil, Professor Friedrich Bhaer’s nephew, becomes a sailor, gets promoted to second mate, and is faced with the challenge of rescuing his fellow shipmates after a wreck leaves them stranded. Tommy enters medical school but finds it difficult to dedicate himself to his work while weighing his complex affections for Nan and Dora, both of whom he could see himself marrying. The novel’s most compelling character is Dan, who becomes a sheep-herder in Australia before returning to America, being arrested out West, and ultimately discovering his deeply entrenched need to dedicate his life to others. Although originally written for children, Louisa May Alcott’s Jo’s Boys, alongside the other novels in her “March Family Saga,” has long been read and adored by children and adults alike. With a beautifully designed cover and professionally typeset manuscript, this edition of Louisa May Alcott’s Jo’s Boys is a classic of American literature and children’s fiction reimagined for modern readers.

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Book SynopsisAn inspiring message of hope and sustainable self-sufficiency, based on a true story.

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Book SynopsisThe Conroy sisters are back! In Hilary Mckay's second book in The Exiles series, The Exiles at Home, the four delightfully troublesome siblings manage to get themselves into yet more mischief.When Ruth Conroy decides to sponsor a child in Africa, she is unprepared for the monthly monetary commitment and is shocked by how difficult it is to find £10 a month . . . In desperation, she enlists the help of her sisters – but Phoebe, Naomi and Rachel are only too eager to think up eccentric fundraising schemes, including wholly undisciplined and unsuitable baby-sitters, an unhygienic catering service and a fraudulent street artist. Whatever the scheme, their hilarious projects never fail to cause chaos and mayhem.Trade ReviewMcKay has a genius for comedy * The Sunday Times *Farce and genuine soft-hearted concern here mix wonderfully * The Guardian *McKay has created a boisterous, chaotic family which always makes me want to rush out and adopt three sisters * TES *The Exiles is a delight * Guardian *I can't think of a girl aged between eight and eighteen who wouldn't enjoy this little gem of a book -- Jill Murphy * The Bookbag *The characters are beautifully developed . . . recorded with such humour and sensitivity that it is an engrossing, sometimes laugh-out-loud story * Write Away *

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Book SynopsisCaddy's World is the prequel to Hilary McKay's laugh-out-loud, award-winning Casson Family series.Best friends, boyfriends, problem parents, pink hair. Brothers, sisters, fireworks and unexpected babies. Welcome to Caddy's World.Travel back to when Caddy was a young girl and Rose had not been born, in this moving and comical prequel to the award-winning Saffy's Angel.Follow the family's adventures in the rest of the beloved series: Saffy's Angel, Indigo's Star, Permanent Rose, Caddy Ever After and Forever Rose.Trade ReviewFull of warmth, vitality and irrepressible good humour. * Guardian *Hilary McKay, the best writer of child dialogue around at the moment... Glorious novel from a true master of her craft. * Independent *A triumph of humour, emotion and realism * Daily Mail *Caddy's world is saturated with colour, style and romance, with even the most mundane detail given a witty lick of polish. * The Daily Telegraph *Caddy's World excels in portraying not only the thoughts and feelings of four 12-year-old girls, but also those of the Casson parents * The Times *Unsentimental with soft-centred charm * Independent on Sunday *If you haven't read these books, what on earth are you waiting for? You won't find a more endearing, eccentric, maddening and marvellously warm family in any other book, by anyone, ever. * The Ultimate Book Guide *

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Book SynopsisPermanent Rose is the third book in Hilary McKay's laugh-out-loud, award-winning Casson Family series.It's a long hot, never-ending summer, with no letters for Rose.Tom went back to America, and Rose hasn't heard from him since. No phone calls, no messages, nothing at all. New friend David, however hard he may be trying, is no replacement.And home doesn't offer relief either: Dad's left Mum for a young model, Caddy is questioning her imminent wedding and Saffy is trying to find her real father.Rose is determined to find Tom in New York. But what else will she find on the way?Follow the family's adventures in the rest of the beloved series: Saffy's Angel, Indigo's Star, Caddy Ever After, Forever Rose and Caddy's World.Trade ReviewSo good it almost hurts . . . charming, affectionate and perfectly written * Independent *From the opening scene ... McKay's third story about the vibrant Casson family is entrancing * The Guardian *Permanent Rose is the antidote to everything that's bad in children's books and, indeed, everything that's bad in life... there are no hard edges but no sentimental slop either, in this beguiling story * The Sunday Telegraph *Realistic dialogue and irresistible characters enliven the tale * School Library Journal *McKay's strength lies in her ability to craft an unputdownable story from everyday happenings, and to handle serious issues and emotions with real lightness. She evokes the whole Casson family so vividly that the reader can imagine their lives going on uniterupted even after the book has been closed. Highly recommended * Bookfest *Rose Casson is the kind of girl we should all want to be... A great sequel to Saffy's Angel and Indigo's Star. * Family Interest Magazine *

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Book SynopsisGoodbye, Perfect is a beautiful and emotional contemporary YA novel, with a powerful friendship at its heart, by bestselling author Sara Barnard. Now with a bold updated cover look.When I was wild, you were steady . . . Now you are wild - what am I? Eden McKinley knows she can’t count on much in this world, but she can depend on Bonnie, her solid, steady, straight-A best friend. So it’s a bit of a surprise when Bonnie runs away with a guy Eden knows nothing about five days before the start of their GCSEs. And it's the last person she would have expected. Sworn to secrecy and bound by loyalty, only Eden knows Bonnie’s location, and that’s the way it has to stay. There’s no way she’s betraying her best friend. Not even when she’s faced with police questioning, suspicious parents and her own growing doubts.As the days pass and things begin to unravel, Eden is forced to question everything she thought she knew about the world, her best friend and herself.Trade ReviewCreating authentic teenage voices is no easy thing but in Goodbye, Perfect, Sara Barnard captures the complex dynamics of teenage friendships and identity, shining an astute light on adolescent pressures. Student-teacher relationships can be controversial in fiction, but themes of coercion and grooming are sensitively handled here. -- Fiona Noble * Observer *I felt like I was living this book -- Zoella on Beautiful Broken Things

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Book SynopsisA reassuring, timeless story, Grace and the Christmas Angel is the first picture book from the beloved author of the Seven Sisters series Lucinda Riley, written with her son Harry Whittaker and illustrated by the award-winning Jane Ray.This is a beautiful gift-edition hardback, complete with an angel ribbon marker.Because somewhere, an angel is listening . . .It's Christmas Eve. The tree is decorated, the presents are wrapped and it's a big day for Grace. She is singing a song in the nativity show, and her fisherman daddy has promised to be back in time to watch her. But when a storm blows up at sea, Grace walks out on stage to find Daddy is not there. She's very worried. But luckily, Grace has someone watching over her. Will Hope, the Christmas Angel, be able to help Daddy get home safely for Christmas morning?Enjoy more books in the heartwarming Guardian Angels series:Rosie and the Friendship AngelBill and the Dream AngelAlfie and the Angel of Lost ThingsTrade ReviewThe magic of Christmas and the joys of community, friendship and family speak volumes in this warm-hearted tale . . . perfect for seasonal giving -- Pam Norfolk * Lancashire Post *Beautifully illustrated, this first in a new series of children’s books is hopeful, and the perfect Christmas gift in so many ways * Woman & Home *Exquisitely decorative with jewel bright colours and starry highlights -- Sunday Times on Rosie and the Friendship Angel

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Book Synopsis'A deliciously entertaining rom-com.' - Nandini Bajpai, author of A Match Made in MehendiDanyal Jilani doesn't lack confidence. He may not be the smartest guy in the room, but he's funny, gorgeous, and going to make a great chef one day. His father doesn't approve of his career choice, but that hardly matters. What does matter is the opinion of Danyal's longtime crush, the perfect-in-all-ways Kaval, and her family, who consider him a less than ideal arranged marriage prospect.When Danyal gets selected for Renaissance Man, a school-wide academic championship, it's the perfect opportunity to show everyone he's smarter than they think. He recruits the brilliant, totally-uninterested-in-him Bisma to help with the competition, but the more time Danyal spends with her . . . the more he learns from her...the more he cooks for her . . . the more he realizes that happiness may be staring him right in his pretty face.In this young adult debut full of depth and heart, author Syed M. Masood will have readers laughing, sighing, tearing up, and shouting 'YES!' at the top of their lungs. Perfect for fans of Sandhya Menon and Jenny Han.Praise for MORE THAN JUST A PRETTY FACE'A laugh-out-loud yet heartwarming story about familial obligations, friendship, and love. Syed M. Masood has created an unforgettable cast of characters with the utterly charming, hilarious, and most endearing Danyal Jilani at the center of it. A thoroughly enjoyable read and a great addition to any bookshelf.' - Sabina Khan, author of The Love and Lies of Rukhsana Ali 'Funny, open-hearted, and utterly charming, More Than Just a Pretty Face perfectly captures the joys of friendship and first love, as well as all the complexities of identity, faith, and family. This is a spectacular debut.' - Katie Henry, author of Heretics Anonymous'Hilarious and teeming with heart, More Than Just a Pretty Face challenged me, wounded me, made me laugh, and made me love. Danyal has secured his place as a heroic protagonist for the ages who only wants the very best for those he loves. His friends and family are so lucky to have him, and readers will be lucky to have Syed M. Masood's debut. I am a forever fan.' Erin Hahn, author of You'd Be MineTrade ReviewA deliciously entertaining rom-com that delivers genuine cultural insight while questioning societal norms. Danyal is hilarious, authentic, and disarmingly humble, though I thoroughly enjoyed spending time with all the vivid and multifaceted characters in the book. * Nandini Bajpai, author of A Match Made in Mehendi *A laugh-out-loud yet heartwarming story about familial obligations, friendship, and love. Syed M. Masood has created an unforgettable cast of characters with the utterly charming, hilarious, and most endearing Danyal Jilani at the center of it. A thoroughly enjoyable read and a great addition to any bookshelf. * Sabina Khan, author of The Love and Lies of Rukhsana Ali *Funny, open-hearted, and utterly charming, More Than Just a Pretty Face perfectly captures the joys of friendship and first love, as well as all the complexities of identity, faith, and family. This is a spectacular debut. * Katie Henry, author of Heretics Anonymous *Hilarious and teeming with heart, More Than Just a Pretty Face challenged me, wounded me, made me laugh, and made me love. Danyal has secured his place as a heroic protagonist for the ages who only wants the very best for those he loves. His friends and family are so lucky to have him, and readers will be lucky to have Syed M. Masood's debut. I am a forever fan. * Erin Hahn, author of You’d Be Mine and More Than Maybe *Masood deftly explores religion, culture, class, and awkward teenage love in this refreshingly candid 'tell it like it is' desi romantic comedy. You'll root hard for Danyal and will be two-fists-high-in-the-air overjoyed when you get to the end. * Suzanne Park, author of The Perfect Escape and Loathe at First Sight *I couldn't have been more charmed by Danyal, the hapless pretty-boy and aspiring chef. One of the most unique and likable characters I've come across. This book has such a kind, expansive heart, and I'm immensely thankful that it exists. * Rahul Kanakia, author of We Are Totally Normal *Fresh, funny, and timely, More Than Just a Pretty Face is a wildly entertaining, stereotype-shattering rom-com debut. Total Netflix movie material. * Sarah Henning, author of Throw Like a Girl and the Sea Witch dulology *More Than Just A Pretty Face is the kind of book I've been searching for my entire life! Not only is it hilarious and heartwarming, with characters you can't help but be charmed by, but it honestly portrays the pressures of living up to family expectations and how history shapes our present and future. This is a must-read for everyone. * Adiba Jaigirdar, author of The Henna Wars *This book is exactly what we need more of on our shelves right now and always: fresh, funny, and reflective of the complicated, beautiful, diverse world we live in. With More Than Just a Pretty Face, Syed M. Masood has crafted a story that is just as deeply hilarious as it is unendingly tender. Danyal Jilani is an absolute delight of a character and the kind of boy that you not only can't help but root for but ultimately, fall completely in love with. More Than Just a Pretty Face is a delectable novel about family, faith, and finding your way to the person you want to be. I fell head-over-heels for Danyal's story, and readers will too. * Leah Johnson, author of You Should See Me in a Crown *

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Book SynopsisA heartwarming, tenderly witty debut about belief – in friendship, in yourself and, maybe, in just a little magic. “I don’t know exactly how wishes work. But I knew a man that did.” Phyll is having a difficult summer. Her family has moved to the seaside, but it’s a long way from perfect. Her mum is sick, she has an enemy called Hilda, and someone is stealing dogs. Then Phyll meets Mr Djinn – a wise old man who insists he’s a genie. It’s a tough claim to believe, until Phyll starts wishing for change…Trade ReviewI thoroughly enjoyed this book and was invested in the range of characters, [...] Recommend and will definitely be ordering a copy. -- Isabelle Coulson * NetGalley *I have to admit to having tears in my eyes as I finished this wonderful story of friendship, self-belief, wishes and the possibility of magic. The characterisation is superb: Mr Djinn especially has some powerful things to say...My wish having put the book aside is that Andy Jones writes another story as beautiful and moving as this, his first for children. -- Jill Bennet * Red Reading Hub *Full of warmth, wit, family and friendship, nasty bullies and dog-stealing villains, and a little pinch of magic... this is a perfect summer read. -- Richreadalot * What I Read Blog *This was a book that I instantly fell in love with. Covering mental health and depression amongst parents and exploring themes of hope, fear and anxieties, this is a book that isn’t just going to support young people but educate as well. Wishes Come in Threes is written with sensitivity and compassion throughout. Plus everyone needs a bit of magic in their lives to make the world a better place sometimes and this story is so heart-warming it filled me with that magic feeling. Wishes Come in Threes is a fantastic debut novel and I really hope Andy Jones is going to continue writing as I am really looking forward to what stories he creates next…A beautiful story which will be perfect for any school library. -- Miss Suffield * Little Blog of Library Treasures *This is a story of friendship and family. Of being lost and being found. A story about moving somewhere new and dealing with change. A story about living with depression. This is a tale of growing up and navigating the choppy waters of the world around you. This is a story about believing in yourself and in others. This is a gritty, witty story about the peaks and troughs of real life sprinkled with just a little magic! -- Jennie * Edspire Blog *

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis"A young boy celebrates his Sephardic Jewish cultural tradition of naming children after grandparents"--

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis

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Book Synopsis"He is safe here, but he needs to feel safe.""If he''s not going home to his parents, why can''t he stay with us?"Say YES Again is a story about Avery, a loquacious girl whose family welcomes foster children into their home. Avery gets a chance to be both a Big Sister and a Younger Sister when David and Luca are placed in her home. With her parents'' help, she learns about respite care, kinship placement, and what it means to "walk in another person''s shoes." Love, empathy, and compassion grow in Avery''s heart as she realizes the impact of saying YES to foster care and wants to say YES again.The Joy of Avery series offers resources for foster care families and brings the world of foster care to life by exploring Avery''s feelings as her family welcomes foster children into their home. Say YES Again is the third book in this faith-based series. The first book is It''s Okay to Wonder. The second book is Braver Than Me.

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