Children’s / Teenage fiction: Family and home stories

Book SynopsisNour loves the luminous glow she was born with, but it’s only when it starts to dim that she discovers the true power of her brilliant light. Nour has a superpower: she glows. Her light shines so bright, she feels like a star in the night sky. But when kids at school notice her glow, they’re not impressed. If she had a real superpower, they say, she could fly or turn invisible. So Nour stops feeling special. And as her light dims, her world darkens . . . until a nighttime cry from her baby sister shows her how powerful her glow can be. Ian De Haes’s heartfelt story and radiant illustrations highlight themes of self-confidence, bravery, empathy, and the imaginative power of a strong female protagonist—whose name means light in Arabic.

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Book SynopsisA day in Chinatown takes an unexpected turn when a bored little girl makes a connection with her grandpa. May isn't having fun on her trip through Chinatown with her grandfather. Gong Gong doesn't speak much English, and May can't understand Chinese. She's hungry, and bored with Gong Gong's errands. Plus, it seems like Gong Gong's friends are making fun of her! But just when May can’t take any more, Gong Gong surprises her with a gift that reveals he’s been paying more attention than she thought. With lighthearted, expressive illustrations by Elaine Chen, this charming debut expertly captures life in the cityand shows how small, shared moments of patience and care—and a dumpling or two—can help a child and grandparent bridge the generational and cultural gaps between them. A glossary at the end of the book features translations of the Chinese words from the story into Chinese characters and English.

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Book SynopsisIn this touching, empowering picture book debut, a girl and her beloved abuelita lean on each other as they contend with racism while running errands in the city.Spending time at home with Abuelita means pancakes, puddle-jumping, and nail-painting. But venturing out into the city is not always as fun. On the bus and at the grocery store, people are impatient and suspicioussometimes they even yell. Sad, angry, and scared, the story's young narrator decides not to leave home again . . . until a moment of empowerment helps her see the strength she and Abuelita share when they face the world together. Warm, expressive illustrations by Rafael Mayani highlight the tenderness in Abuelita and the narrator's relationship. 

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Book SynopsisMadeline and her twin brother Roderick have the Usher name, the Usher house - and the Usher disease. Something is wrong with the family's blood - and it seems to have spread to the house itself. Sometimes Madeline even thinks that the house is alive... When Roderick is sent away to school, the house seems to want revenge on the one member of the Usher family left behind: Madeline herself.A gorgeous, eerie, darkly Gothic tale, THE FALL is guaranteed to intrigue and enthrall its readers, winning legions of new fans for the talented Bethany Griffin. Perfect for fans of Laini Taylor, Becca Fitzpatrick and Cassandra Clare.Trade ReviewA truly haunting story * School Librarian *

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Book SynopsisThe power of imagination and storytelling combine in a poignant and uplifting novella of family, connection and overcoming grief. Tabby's fed up. Fed up with losing her best friend and fed up that Grandad has come to stay. Grandad's always telling the same old silly, made-up stories and now Tabby has to walk his smelly dog Buster every day after school. When one of Tabby's walks takes her to a lonely hilltop house she spots something strange going on. So strange she can't help but mention it to Grandad who of course turns it all into another fantasy. But when tragedy strikes, Tabby's left wondering if Grandad's impossible story could be true? A poignant and uplifting story of family, connection and imagination, from the Blue Peter Book Award shortlisted author of Owen and the Soldier. Particularly suitable for struggling, reluctant or dyslexic readers aged 8+Trade Review"A beautifully written story about what is truly important in life" – INIS "Lisa blurs the lines between dreams and reality and ultimately leaves the reader questioning but willing to believe that there actually is just a little bit of magic present in this world" – Aidan Severs, That Boy can Teach "Utterly lovely" – Lucy Strange "A poignant reminder of the warmth and joy of family connections, a heartfelt exploration of overcoming grief, and a celebration of the power of the imagination" – Wigan Today "Another beautifully-crafted story" – Matt Oldfield

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Book SynopsisLily's already got plenty going on living with a moody teenage sister, two feral brothers and a messy baby sister. Mum and Gran are stressed to the max, both dads are out of the picture and the cats aren't exactly pulling their weight. But when she starts getting mixed-up warnings not to go on holiday to the tiny, safe Scottish island of Cumbrae, her summer just gets weirder and weirder. The thing is, whoever's talking to Lily doesn't even seem to know she's doing it. If she's a ghost, she's not a very good one. And there's something about her that Lily finds awfully, spine-tinglingly familiar. . .Spend the summer with Lily McLean in this beautifully written, laugh-out-loud adventure by Kelpies Prize winner Lindsay Littleson.Trade Review'A fun and quirky read, ideal for fans of Jacqueline Wilson and Sarah Webb.'-- Children's Books Ireland'Admirably short and an easy read, but still full of everything that s important in life. And now I want to go to Cumbrae.'-- Bookwitch'Funny, beautifully written, original and finally extremely moving, this is young teen fiction at its best.'-- Nicholas Tucker, Carousel'This is an amazingly assured debut novel. Lindsay Littleson is a terrific writer, and I for one can't wait to see what she writes next.'-- John K. Fulton, chimneyrabbit.com' a charming story set on the West Coast of Scotland. This is a perfect summer story all about families, friends and well some very weird happenings.'-- Armadillo'This is a gently thought-provoking book, beautifully paced and cleverly structured and it should be on the shelves of every junior school library. Four stars.'-- Books for Keeps'A summer read to be read at any time of year. 10/10'-- Nayu's Reading Corner'A gripping and exciting read that gets a big thumbs up from us.'-- PoweredByReading.com'This book is a joy to read'-- Iram, Forrester High, Teen Titles'Brimming with imagination and beautifully written a charming and engaging read. With plenty of humour and a lovely plot twist this is a great novel for anyone aged 9 and above.'-- Christina Banach, Author of Minty

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Book SynopsisRaj and his dad are going camping. They've packed everything they need and Raj knows they are going to have an amazing time. Once they get there, however, they find they have to contend with wind, rain and a family of very noisy bears. In this sequel to Raj and the Best Day Ever, Sebastien Braun continues his warm, observant exploration of the relationship between a little tiger and his dad.

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Book SynopsisPea lives in a flat at Number 7 Evergreen Street. It's a grey building in a grey street, in a grey city. Inside the building, however, it's not grey at all. Pea and her parents have lots of amazing, colourful neighbours. One day, an army of construction workers turn up on the street and start putting up brand new buildings. When it looks like Number 7 Evergreen Street is going to be demolished, Pea has to think quickly to save her home.A special book that explores the value of communities and nature.Trade ReviewThis delightful story of Pea and her Neighbours, a quirky and multicultural community in a high rise building, is all about what can be achieved when you work together and how important it is to fight for what you believe in. The artwork is great fun to look at, especially the depiction of the building and its system of communication between neighbours. * Seven Stories *

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Book SynopsisWillow has always felt like an outsider at school, but she and her Nanna were so alike that she never felt alone. Now Nanna is gone and Willow is adrift. So when a group of girls offer her friendship in exchange for "fun" stealing dares, Willow can't say no. But as the dares escalate, she has to ask herself: How far will she go to fit in?This wise, warm and uplifting story from the acclaimed author of Luna Rae is Not Alone explores what it feels like to lose yourself and the joy of discovering you're perfect just as you are.

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Book SynopsisJoin Aya and Papaya on their latest adventures in MQ’s second bright and fun children’s picture book! Morning has broken and as the sun peaks through her window, Aya gently opens her eyes and gives Papaya an enormous hug. Jumping out of bed and pulling back the curtains, a big smile spreads across her face. Today will be a great day because Aya’s best friend, Samy, is coming to play! Aya and Samy, with Papaya and Bamboo, decide to go on an adventure to the big castle at the end of the garden. But first, they must be brave and make their way past the big little creatures that live in the garden. As their journey progresses, Aya and Samy learn an important lesson about bravery and being kind.

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Book SynopsisThis is Red. Red lives in two homes and has special things he does in each. But Monday is moving day. What if the new house isn? t like the old one? What if there aren? t special things to do there?Follow Red on his adventure to discover his new home.

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Book SynopsisTilly dreams of having a pony of her own. One that only she can ride to stardom. Will her wishes come true when she joins Silver Shoe Farm Stables? Everyone is excited for the London International Horse Show. Then Magic Spirit falls ill and Tilly must nurse him back to health. It turns out that her special skills come in useful at the horse show too, where she helps soothe a fiery stallion who no one else can get close to. Collect all 18 titles in this series of irresistible, uplifting and heartwarming pony adventures. Printed in a dyslexia friendly font and packed with up to date tips from three times Olympic Medallist, Pippa Funnell, as well as a helpful glossary and black and white illustrations on every spread.

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Book SynopsisCan the Miffkins help this quarrelsome brother and sister find common ground? When Mia and her little brother Jim fall out, they both feel terrible... until the Miffkins turn up. They're small, cute and very mischievous! Can looking after these curious little creatures bring Mia and Jim back together?Trade Review"Utterly charming, 100% relatable story of sibling rivalry with added magic... The story is very appealing, the Miffkins are very sweet indeed, and the message is delivered subtly and with real charm. A lovely book for families to share." * LoveReading4Kids *

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Book SynopsisMeet Angela, Ben, Cherish, Daniel and Enoch, in their little life interests, activities and adventures! Enjoy these 5 Delightful stories that will make your child smile, while they learn!

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Book SynopsisTilly Frost has grown up reading her grandmother’s bestselling romance novels – so when the one and only Beatrix Frost is taken ill, Tilly finishes writing her latest work. Then Tilly agrees to start the next book. But what is her gran hiding from her? And how can Tilly write a heart-pounding romance when she’s never been in love? Can she turn her school crush into something more? One thing Tilly should know is that the course of true love never did run smooth… If you liked FANGIRL, you’ll love this!

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Book SynopsisHolly's dad is an explorer, having amazing adventures all over the world, while Holly is stuck at home with her mum, her baby brother and the dog. Now Dad's on a new expedition and he'll miss her tenth birthday. She's not happy - until she finds out that he's planned a special treasure hunt, just for her. She has ten days to complete ten tasks - some silly, some tricky and some downright terrifying. Maybe life at home isn't quite so boring after all.The first story in the 'Dadventure' series, a perfect family story or read-alone for fans of David Baddiel and THE 13-STOREY TREEHOUSE.Trade ReviewDavid Lowe's book provides the reader with a brilliant sense of adventure at home, showing how everyday activities can become brilliant with imagination and confidence. * Armadillo Magazine *

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Book SynopsisNoel is used to his unusual family set-up: him, Mum, super-brainy little sister Bauble, and his gay uncles (both called Mike) next door. But when Bauble spots Mum kissing Santa Clausin Augusteverything Noel thought he knew about his family is turned upside-down. Who's the mysterious F' sending Mum romantic postcards? Why has she started taking weird photos of people in food bikinis? And, even though he's clearly not Santa, might Dad still be alive after all?

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Book SynopsisSometimes we find what we’re looking for in the most unexpected places. Wren just wants a bit of peace and quiet. What he gets is the noisiest baby sister you could ever imagine! But when Wren runs away to the country, he discovers that maybe peace and quiet isn’t all he needs … With bright, modern illustrations and a powerfully simple story, any child (and any parent!) who’s ever had to deal with a noisy sibling will love Wren. This debut from the new team of Katrina Lehman and Sophie Beer is sure to delight.Trade Review‘The illustrations by Sophie Beer for this warm-hearted family story are vivacious and vibrant, filled with life and love. They perfectly depict the chaos of a big family with so much colour and movement. This is a big-hearted story about families and siblings that is perfect to read to children aged 3+.’ * Readings *‘This is a thought-provoking book about the difference between having what we want and wanting what we have. It offers lots of scope for talking about the annoying things in life and their place. It is accompanied by bold, bright illustrations with the noises shown ribboning over the pages so that the reader is vividly part of Wren’s world.’ -- Julia Wills * Carousel *‘If you have a new baby in your house and an unhappy sibling or two, then this is the perfect book for your family. The illustrations are bright and full of the most hilarious details that will resonate with all children who need a little more space to themselves.’ * Good Reading *‘The vibrant and engaging story make this a wonderful book for children aged 3-6, and a great choice for anyone bringing a new baby into their family.’ * My Child Magazine *‘Suitable for ages two and up, Wren is an easy recommendation for anyone looking for stories about families or new siblings. This book is also an excellent way to talk about the importance of giving family members space from each other.’ * Books+Publishing *‘The illustrations by Sophie Beer for this warm-hearted family story are vivacious and vibrant, filled with life and love. They perfectly depict the chaos of a big family with so much colour and movement. This is a big-hearted story about families and siblings that is perfect to read to children aged 3+.’ * Readings *‘This is a charming tale exploring the chaos of modern family life, with punchy verse and bright, detailed illustrations kids will love to explore.’ * Herald Sun *‘Wren is a kid who just wants a little peace and quiet. He lives with his cacophonous family of 4 siblings in the noisy city....The illustrations, “a combination of traditional mark making and digital medium,” are full bleed panoramas of the bustling household, in a palette of bright reds, yellow, and blues, with a slightly retro feel. This is a fun story time read and a light hearted book for families expecting another baby.’ * Youth Services Book Review *‘Lehman’s story is so sweet and realistic and often funny, and Beer’s detailed illustrations provide endless enjoyment for my daughter (3). There’s always something fun to look at in the background, and everyone’s expressions, including the baby’s, are so on point. I love books that are so well illustrated I can see and hear the sound.’ * Baby Librarians *‘A cacophony of chaotic sound brings a new brother and sister together...Yet the heart of the story lies in its sibling love. Wren’s eventual relationship with his new baby sister will be a welcome addition to the ranks of such new-baby standouts as One Special Day, by Lola M. Schaefer and illustrated by Jessica Meserve (2012). Sensory overload is no match for the lure of tranquility—until it is, in this effortlessly charming tale.’ * Kirkus Reviews *‘Desperate for some quiet, Wren moves in with his grandparents in the country, and while at first, he enjoys the quiet, he misses his family, even his noisy baby sister … [S]weet and realistic and often funny…Beer’s detailed illustrations can provide endless enjoyment for children. There’s always something fun to look at in the background, and everyone’s expressions, including the baby’s, are so on point.’ * Book Riot *

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Book SynopsisWhen Clinton is sent for to join his mother in London, he must leave the quiet and safety of the island behind, his family there, the afternoons spent fishing and, perhaps most importantly of all, his old dog, Rufus. But amongst this change, the lure of nature and the presence of ''a boy''s best friend'' are never far away. One of six titles about young people growing up in the countryside.

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Book Synopsis In these four easy-to-read stories, follow Lolo as she creates an amazing soup for Mama, looks after snails in her garden, has a night-time adventure and goes to the seaside with Gogo. “Sparkly stories with lots of gentle humour” - Red Reading HubTrade Review"So right for children moving on to chapter books - the content, the length of each story and the pictures are just what's needed for children' making progress in decoding words and finding the story." * Dolphin Book blog *"A perfect chapter book set in South Africa, the stories are full of fun, kindness and friendship." -- Jo Bowers, Associate Dean, Cardiff Metropolitan University"With its combination of gentle humour and warm family relationships, and of course, Niki Daly's own black and white illustrations at every turn of the page, this one is a sheer delight." * Juno *"The outstanding feature of this series of books is that very few books for children of this age combine highly readable tone and a feisty young character of colour." * IBBY *"Ideal for newly independent readers to increase their confidence, each page is illustrated with characterful black-and-white illustrations that bring the stories to life." * Book Trust - Books We Love *"Lolo is thoughtful and caring and she is very good at considering the feelings of others. Each book would be a wonderful pick for a learning setting, encouraging conversations about emotions and friendships. Great reads." * Mama Filz *"Sparkly stories all, with lots of gentle humour that will win Lolo lots of friends among young readers who are sure to enjoy making the acquaintance of this enormously engaging girl." * Red Reading Hub *"Suitable for early readers moving onto chapter books...sweet, simple stories...Punctuated by beautiful black and white drawings by the author." * Children's Books Ireland *"All Lolo's experiences are based on familiar, everyday events with which young readers can empathise. The emphasis is on fun, family and a child's growing curiosity and independence. Every page is brought to life with delightful black and white drawings...Perfect for building reading confidence in youngsters who are ready to move from picture books to more substantial texts." * Book Trust Books We Love *

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Book SynopsisThe two brothers, Badr and Rida, dream about a big day, a day they are waiting for eagerly. In the meantime, many ramified events take place. Some may disturb their lives, and others may push them forward... but the biggest challenge they will face is a number. What is the story of this number? What is the turning point in their lives?

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Book SynopsisJulie is coming today; she's the new babysitter. Everyone is excited. Felix and his little sister Nina want to fly to the moon in a rocket with Julie,or pet a gorilla. A fun and cheeky story about two kids who befriendthe unluckiest of babysitters.

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Book SynopsisDragons don’t exist. But they used to... Discovering the magic of dragons flows through your veins is frightening – and liberating! But with the powers of Dragonkind comes a desperate quest: siblings Finn and Tula must travel to a hidden island fortress to help save their father – and the world they know; and discover the truth about their incredible Fireblood heritage.

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Book SynopsisCharlie becomes the keeper of a firefox cub, and he has to defend it valiantly from a supernatural hunter... A heartwarming story about family, friendship and finding your inner fire. A Welsh adaptation by Siân Northey of The Last Firefox.

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Book SynopsisWinner of:2014 Christopher Award, Books for Young People2014 ILA Primary Fiction Award2015 MLA Mitten Award HonorHuman Rights in Children's Literature HonorWith humor and warmth, this children’s picture book raises awareness about poverty and hungerBest friends Sofia and Maddi live in the same neighborhood, go to the same school, and play in the same park, but while Sofia’s fridge at home is full of nutritious food, the fridge at Maddi’s house is empty. Sofia learns that Maddi’s family doesn’t have enough money to fill their fridge and promises Maddi she’ll keep this discovery a secret. But because Sofia wants to help her friend, she’s faced with a difficult decision: to keep her promise or tell her parents about Maddi’s empty fridge. Filled with colorful artwork, this storybook addresses issues of poverty with honesty and sensitivity while instilling important lessons in friendship, empathy, trust, and helping others. A call to action section, with six effective ways for children to help fight hunger and information on antihunger groups, is also included.Trade Review"I really admire Lois Brandt for writing about those in need without making this an 'issue' book. It's first and foremost a story--and a good one." --Kirby Larson, Newbery Honor-winning author , Hattie Big Sky"This title is notable. The bright, friendly illustrations soften the topic while still conveying the characters' difficult feelings, such as worry and embarrassment. Gentle, age-appropriate humor releases the tension, keeping readers engaged as Sofia discovers how to best help her friend. . . . A thoughtful and well-executed look at the challenge of childhood hunger." Kirkus Reviews"The single greatest achievement of Maddi' Fridge is [that it] delivers its message directly, through the intriguing story embellished with artful illustrations, without preaching or political commentary. Maddi' Fridge is a book that works on a child' awareness level, with no intervening adult judgements to cloud the basic reaction of human compassion. It also tells children exactly what they can do to help. Maddi' Fridge is a wonderful book for all kinds of children, whether they are hungry or not." Midwest Book Review"Filled with colourful artwork, this storybook addresses issues of poverty with honesty and sensitivity while instilling important lessons in friendship, empathy, trust, and helping others." toronto4kids.com"In her debut picture book, Brandt addresses an important issue: childhood hunger. . . . Vogel' digital illustrations portraying the smiling, wide-eyed girls in their city neighborhood are filled with warmth and a sense of community." Linda L. Walkins, School Library Journal"This book introduces a topic that is rarely explored in picture books, and it would be a welcome addition to larger picture book collections." Melissa Morwood, BayViews"Cartoon-style illustrations, depicting a vibrant and diverse city neighborhood, help soften the difficult issues raised . . . . Food insecurity, childhood hunger, and poverty are treated with tenderness and humor." April Mazza, Booklist"While the issue of childhood hunger is serious, the story is neither preachy nor patronizing. It is instead silly and sweet and strong. It is brilliant and appealing. That's because it is, at heart, a story about friends. It's about Maddi helping Sofia climb the wall, and Sofia helping Maddi get enough to eat." catherinespascha.com"In her debut picture book, Brandt addresses an important issue: childhood hunger. . . . Vogel's digital illustrations portraying the smiling, wide-eyed girls in their city neighborhood are filled with warmth and a sense of community." Linda L. Walkins, School Library Journal

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