Children’s / Teenage fiction: Family and home stories

Book Synopsis A stunning, exciting story from acclaimed author Dan Smith – author of the Carnegie Medal-nominated Nisha’s War. BERLIN 1961 Anja and Monika live opposite each other. They play together every day, with Otto the cat. One night they wake up to bangs and shouts. Soldiers are building a huge barbed wire fence between them. A terrible forever wall that gets longer and higher until it divides the whole city. On the East side, Monika is scared – neighbours are becoming spies and there are secret police everywhere. It’s Anja who spots that Otto has found a way across. If he can visit Monika, then perhaps she can too. But Anja gets trapped and there’s no safe way back . . . An emotional, atmospheric story from Carnegie Medal-nominated author Dan Smith From the author of Nisha’s War, My Friend the Enemy and She Wolf A high-stakes adventure, set during the Cold War, centred on two cousins separated when the Berlin Wall is built Perfect for readers aged 9 and up who may be studying the Cold War at school PRAISE FOR DAN SMITH: ‘Action, adventure, wolves, snow … this story has EVERYTHING. I devoured it so quickly I need to read it again.’ EMMACARROLL on She Wolf ‘This book grabbed me from page one – highly recommended’ HISTORICAL NOVEL SOCIETY on My Friend the Enemy

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Book SynopsisThe second book in a wonderfully funny and sparky series: THE BOY WHO GREW DRAGONS was shortlisted for the Waterstones Children's Book Prize'Irresistible ... a modern classic' GUARDIAN on The Boy Who Grew Dragons'A warm-hearted debut ... lovely, expressive, characterful' SUNDAY TIMES on The Boy Who Grew DragonsTomas has a secret - a big secret. He has his own tiny dragon, Flicker! A dragon which grew on a very special tree at the bottom of his grandad's garden. And not only that - his friends Ted, Kai and Kat have dragons too, all grown on the same dragonfruit tree ...Having your own dragon is magical - but Tomas is also about to find out what living with a dragon is REALLY like. When the fire-breathing kicks in and you get singed every five seconds, it's like having an unpredictable volcano in your pocket. Learning to train the dragons and keep them out of trouble at school and home will take all Tomas's creativity and patience ... What is more, the dragonfruit tree is starting to look droopy and unwell. Tomas and his friends have got to do all they can restore it to health and uncover its deepest mysteries, as well as trying to work out what big secret local bully Liam, 'King of Trouble', has got up his sleeve ... One thing is for sure, life is never dull when you have a dragon in your pocket.

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Book SynopsisBut when cruel, manipulative Betty arrives in town, Annabelle's calm world is shattered, along with everything she's ever known about right and wrong.When Betty disappears, suspicion falls on strange, gentle loner Toby.Trade ReviewHarper Lee has a worthy successor. Wolk is a big new talent * The Times *Weaving together complex themes with extraordinary skill, debut author Lauren Wolk has created a book that deserves to be read . . . A timeless story, beautifully placed in an evocative and brilliantly realised historical setting * Guardian *Suspenseful, wise, beautifully written and emotionally engaging * Sunday Times *Haunting . . . With a precociously perceptive girl as a main character; a damaged, misunderstood recluse; and themes of prejudice and bigotry, comparisons to Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird will abound. But Wolk gives us her own story - one full of grace and stark, ­brutal beauty * New York Times *A powerful, beautifully written coming-of-age novel . . . This emotionally intelligent, complex story deserves recognition and praise * Daily Mail *

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Book SynopsisDaisy's getting into so much trouble over the Easter holidays! Cheeky, extremely readable and funny young fiction from the bestselling author behind the hilarious OI FROG series. Another BRILLIANT laugh-out-loud Daisy adventure, from bestselling author of the Oi Frog series, Kes Gray.Here comes trouble! Daisy is usually happy with her strawberry Dip Dab lollies or Crunchy Cream biscuits, but when Easter comes round, it's all about chocolate. And the trouble with chocolate is, it's TOO DELICIOUS. So when Daisy's mum tells her they're going to Chocolate Land as a special treat, she is REALLY excited! PLUS she has been chosen to look after the class hamsters, Pickle and Pops! This could be the best Easter ever. But the trouble with hamsters and chocolate is, the two shouldn't mix...

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewA stunning debut . . . This is an exquisitely written book about identity and wordplay that's as warm, masterful and up-to-date as it is laugh-out-loud funny. -- Kitty Empire * Observer *Deliciously, quirkily Gothic -- Robin Stevens * New York Times Book Review *Murder most splendid in this ghoulish debut -- Emily Bearn * The Telegraph *Gothic mystery brimming with bonkers characters and boundless energy * Daily Mail *A fun read with diverse characters and an enticing setting. -- Alice Clifford * The Sun *A mystery that is as clever and impish as its heroine * Publisher's Weekly Starred Review *An absolutely delightful debut * Kirkus Reviews Starred Review *A witty confection of highly colourful characters * The Horn Book *A delightful pick for sharp readers enamoured of gothic sensibilities and clever prose * Shelf Awareness Starred Review *This witty, imaginative entry deserves a prominent space on the MG shelf. * PaperBound *

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Book Synopsis The New York Times No.1 bestselling YA crime thriller that everyone is talking about. Soon to be a major BBC series! Trade Review‘A taut, compulsively readable, elegantly plotted thriller', Guardian 'A Twisty, compelling UK YA debut', Fiona Noble, The Bookseller 'Prepare to be murdered by this book. Dark, dangerous and intricately plotted – my heart literally pounded. I haven't been this addicted to anything since Serial. Holly Jackson is the next big thing, I promise.', Laura Steven, author of the critically acclaimed The Exact Opposite of Okay 'Twisty, compulsive and so, so, clever', Savannah Brown, author of The Truth About Keeping Secrets 'This book was a delight from start to finish. I laughed. I cried. And I very much enjoyed attempting to solve the case with Pip (who I now want to be my best friend). I didn't guess the twist, and I don't think many people will. Holly Jackson has absolutely killed it with her debut!', Aisha Bushby, author of A Pocketful of Stars and contributor to the award-winning A Change is Gonna Come 'That ending! Pure genius', Yasmin Rahman, author of All the Things We Never Said 'In a League of its Own', Lucy Powrie, author of The Paper & Hearts Society

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Book SynopsisA celebratory, inclusive and educational exploration of Lunar New Year for both children that celebrate and children who want to understand and appreciate their peers who do.Lunar New Year captures the magic of the celebration by exploring how Ling and her family enjoy the biggest Chinese festival of the year. The new year festival lasts for 15 days full of preparation, celebration and symbolism. Join Ling, her sister Mei and granny Po Po as they clean the house from top to bottom, pick fresh flowers from the garden, visit friends and family, and carry red lanterns through their neighbourhood. Ling invites the reader into her home and family, allowing the reader to experience this special celebration first-hand through an authentic narrative non-fiction story. A fun 16-page 'factivity' section follows the story and delves into more detail about how the festival is celebrated inTrade Review“This heavily illustrated guide to Lunar New Year, for 5 to 7 year olds, has a 16-page fact section, a craft project, a quiz, and a story about Ling and her family who celebrate Lunar New Year in China.” * The Bookseller *"This title explores how the Lunar New year is celebrated around the world, capturing the magic of the festival for children everywhere." * The Bookseller *

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Book SynopsisWritten with great empathy and Raúf’s trademark humour, this moving story gives a child’s-eye view of the increasing problem of food poverty. Written with great empathy and Rauf’s trademark humour, The Great (Food) Bank Heist is a moving story that gives a child’s-eye view of the increasing problem of food poverty. On Thursdays, Nelson, Ashley and Mum head out to the bank. But not just any old bank – the food bank. With its shining tins and packets of food stacked from floor to ceiling, Nelson thinks it’s the best kind of bank there is. But there’s a thief in town, and the shelves of the food bank are getting emptier each day, leaving people hungrier than ever. For the sake of his family and everyone else’s, Nelson needs to make them stop. But can he and his friends really be the ones to catch the bank robber?Trade Review"A typically accessible and empathy-filled contemporary story that takes a child's-eye look at the increasing problem of food poverty" – The Bookseller "A tender and funny look at a difficult subject" iNews "This is masterful and empathetic storytelling at its best … Rauf gives a child's-eye view of food poverty, friendship and community spirit … A great story set in a unique and modern setting that I would highly recommend" – INIS "Heartwarming [with] touches of humour … Marvellous on so many levels" – Book Trust "We are so grateful to Onjali for writing this powerful book" – Emma Revie, Chief Executive of The Trussell Trust "A story that doesn’t shy away from the real problems of low income families but also provides some humour and adventure at the same time … great illustrations by Elisa Paganelli which give the book an extra dimension and bring the cast to life for the reader" – The Letterpress Project

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Book SynopsisA tense, page-turning story that sensitively deals with themes of family upheaval and kleptomania, by the bestselling author of Ella on the Outside.Ren's family lose their home in a fire. They're living with her grandmother now and things are a bit tense.Ren lost her collection of things, her clothes; her brother lost his little bear and is inconsolable. So Ren starts replacing things with other people's possessions. They've got loads of stuff, after all.But she gets caught and has to strike a terrifying deal to avoid detection...

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Book Synopsis Try as he might, Arun simply cannot wriggle his way out of taking the maths test at school. Instead, he must learn to face his fears in this encouraging and relatable school story from Serena Patel. Maths test? Nightmare! Arun is determined to get out of a Maths test at school. But how? A school-wide protest against all tests? Pretending to be sick? He’s ready to try anything, but maybe he’s not the only one who feels this way, and maybe in the end it’s better to face your fears?Trade Review"Inspiring story, full of twists and turns … a great universal read for any child who struggles with feelings of nervousness and anxiety, or children who can sometimes fell isolated and alone in school." – INIS Magazine

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Book SynopsisEvery evening Lampie the lighthouse keeper's daughter must light a lantern to warn ships away from the rocks. But one stormy night disaster strikes. The lantern goes out, a ship is wrecked and an adventure begins. In disgrace, Lampie is sent to work as a maid at the Admiral's Black House, where rumour has it that a monster lurks in the tower. But what she finds there is stranger and more beautiful than any monster. Soon Lampie is drawn into a fairytale adventure in a world of mermaids and pirates, where she must fight with all her might for friendship, freedom and the right to be different.

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Book SynopsisA gorgeous full-colour coming-of-age novel, perfect for fans of Judy Blume's Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret, Katie Kirby's The Mega Complicated Crushes of Lottie Brooks and The Babysitters Club graphic novelsREADING THIS WAS LIKE A WARM HUG' ALICE OSEMANSELECTED BY THE OBSERVER AS A YA BOOK OF THE YEAR (2024)Tuva is starting seventh grade, and her checklist of goals includes: writing a diary, getting a cool look, building the best fort in the woods with her BFFs, and sharing EVERYTHING with her best friends. But when she starts school, nothing is how she hoped it would be.Seventh grade has split her friends into rival factions: Team Linnea and the girls who fall in love and Team Bao and the girls who are still playing. Linnea has a boyfriend, Bao hates everything related to feelings. Worst of all, Tuva is expected to choose a side!Then Mariam shows up and suddenly things begin to make a little more sense. But with all her friends fighting, this is one part of growing up that Tuva isn't quite sure how to share Trade Review“Gorgeous cosy artwork. Reading this was like a warm hug.” Alice Oseman “This sweet debut, perfect for girls aged 10 and up, explores the dynamics of first love and friendship in adolescence in a calm and reassuring way.” The Bookseller ‘One to Watch' "Charming . . . captures the challenges of navigating strains on friendship bonds . . . An absorbing, sincerely told story of adolescent self-discovery and connection." – Kirkus Reviews “Evocative of greats like Judy Blume and Sharon Creech . . . raw, sweet, relatable and realistic, this modern classic has a timelessness that will leave a lasting impact.” – Booklist, starred review "Timeless and international….the "Are You There God, It's Me, Margaret" of the 21st Century . . . a relatable and touching story with incredibly charming and captivating art." – Viewpoint Books “Nora Dåsnes has established herself as one of our most important children’s book voices.” – Kristine Isaksen “A Best New Graphic Novel. Compelling.” — We Are Teachers

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Book SynopsisWINNER OF THE INCLUSIVE BOOKS FOR CHILDREN AWARDSMeet Maysa and Musa Malik. They might be twins but they are total opposites. And together they make an unstoppable team, especially when trying to solve a mystery! Infectiously funny, and full of her trademark warmth, Meet the Maliks - Twin Detectives is the brand-new series from Zanib Mian, author of Planet Omar. Perfect for fans of Tom Gates.Maysa Malik just can''t seem to be good like her twin, Musa. So, when she isn''t allowed to go on a school trip, Maysa tries to change her parents'' minds by taking part in a cookie competition at the mosque.But when the cookies are all destroyed, it''s up to Maysa, Musa and their neighbour, Norman, to solve the mystery. They''ll have to put their detective hats on to catch the culprit - and help save Maysa''s reputation.Trade ReviewIt's brilliant to see the everyday life of a normal Muslim family in a book. Maysa and Musa are twins who are very different to each other but share a lovely bond. Together with their loveable sidekick Norman, they cause chaos and put the world to rights! This is a book of mystery and mayhem but also family bonds, admitting mistakes and standing up for what is right. * Nizrana Farook, author of The Girl Who Stole an Elephant *Be prepared for lots of laughing out loud with the new mystery solvers, Maysa and Musa. There are samosas and madrasas in this wonderful story about an ordinary British Muslim family. So much fun ... and you'll never guess who the cookie culprit is. * Sufiya Ahmed, author of My Story: Noor-Un-Nissa Inayat Khan and Rosie Raja *

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Winner of the 2012 Branford Boase Award, this is Annabel Pitcher's stunning debut about ten-year-old Jamie, and the way his life and his family are shaped by the sister in an urn on the mantelpiece. Five years ago, Jamie's sister, Rose, was blown up by a terrorist bomb. His family is torn apart by their grief. His mum runs away. His dad turns to drink and hate. Rose's surviving twin sister Jasmine stops eating, gets piercings and dyes her hair pink - anything to look different to her twin. But Jamie hasn't cried in all that time. To him, Rose is just a distant memory.Jamie is far more interested in his cat, Roger, his Spiderman T-shirt, and his deep longing and unshakeable belief that his Mum will come back to the family she walked out on months ago.But moving away for a Fresh New Start introduces Jamie to something else very interesting - a girl named Sunya. Sunya is bright, exciting and fun, and the one person at school he can call a friend. But how far can this new friendship grow when Jamie is desperate that his dad doesn't find out?

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Book SynopsisHattie rescues a tiny little piglet from certain death. But Hattie's parents don't believe in farm animals being pets and insist that Truffle must be sold as soon as he's big enough. So Hattie begins a campaign to keep him. In the end, it takes two lost guinea pigs and one cold, frosty, nighttime adventure to save Truffle's bacon...

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Book SynopsisRead the hilarious coming-of-age classic! Judy Blume's Are You There, God? It's Me, Margaret is now a major film starring Rachel McAdams and Abby Ryder Fortson.Meet Margaret. She's going through all the same things most teenage girls have to face; fitting in, friendship and first bras.Life isn't easy for Margaret. She's moved away from her childhood home, she's starting a new school, finding new friends – and she's convinced she's not normal.For a start she hasn't got a clue whether she wants to be Jewish like her father or Christian like her mother. Everyone else seems really sure of who they are.And, worst of all, she's a 'late developer'. She just knows that all her friends are going to need a bra before she does. It's too embarrassing to talk to her parents about these things.So she talks to God instead – and waits for an answer . . .Trade ReviewIt's a book for us girls whatever age we may be to read and connect with everything that's going on in it. * thebookgeekwearspajamas.co.uk *Funny and thought provoking. * booksteensandmagazines.com *A great book and trip down memory lane. * jilllovestoread.blogspot.co.uk *This book is still as wonderful and magical as it was when I was 12! * NetGalley Reviewer *Blume’s iconic coming-of-age novel-and certainly one of the most beloved books of my own girlhood . . . -- The Bookseller

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Book SynopsisA wonderfully warm and relatable story from the brilliant Jill Murphy, who has sold over 4 million books featuring the much-loved Bear Family, and a charming, long-awaited third story to follow classic picture books Peace at Last and Whatever Next!Mr and Mrs Bear wake up late. It's raining outside, and Baby Bear is late for nursery. Then Mrs Bear sits on her glasses at work and Mr Bear spills his coffee! Oh dear – it seems this is just going to be one of those days! But the loveable Bear family muddle through cheerfully, and there's even a surprise for Baby Bear when Mr Bear gets home from work.With all the hallmarks of an instant firm favourite, Just One of Those Days is a big-hearted story about a family day, which parents and children everywhere will relate to. Full of satisfying repetition and rhythm and delightful illustrations, Just One of Those Days is a must-have for all Jill Murphy fans, old and new.The paperback edition of the Top 10 Bestselling picture book."Murphy's acute observation of family life continues to delight both children and adults." - Guardian and Online"Full of gentle humour and astute observations of human behaviour." - The BooksellerTrade ReviewMurphy returns to the lovable Bear family of Peace at Last and Whatever Next for a third slice of family life, in which the Bears have had a day we can all identify with - in lockdown more than ever, I suspect. Peace at Last may have been published more than 40 years ago, but the story of the Bears remains as warm and relatable as ever, full of gentle humor and astute observations of human behavior. Delicious. * The Bookseller *Jill Murphy, the author of mum-championing classics such as Peace at Last, has brought out her first picture book for 40 years. It describes the sort of day any family can relate to: baby bear is late for nursery, mummy bear breaks her glasses, and daddy bear spills his coffee at work. The carpe diem sentiment is distilled through Murphy’s lovely rhyme and repetition * The Times and Syndicates *In more down-to-earth vein, from earlier in the autumn, Jill Murphy’s Just One of Those Days (Macmillan) features the beloved Bear family on a day fraught with mishaps – spilled coffee, squashed glasses, nursery quarrels – followed by consolatory shared pizza and the reflection that it was, after all, just one of those days. Murphy’s acute observation of family life continues to delight both children and adults * Guardian and Online *Just One of Those Days by Jill Murphy, published this year, is a gentle account of a bear family's day * Irish Independent *A new picture book from such a heavyweight in the children's literature world is cause for excitement, and this wonderful new instalment in the 'Bear family' series, joining those favorite classics, Peace at Last and Whatever Next, does not disappoint. This is a story that will resonate with all parents of small children...Parents and children will relate to the depiction of ordinary family life and routines, and children will enjoy the familiar cozy illustrations of the Bear family * School Librarian *Jill Murphy’s delightful return to the Bear family from Peace at Last is full of her stunning full-page color artwork which perfectly depicts the trials and tribulations of daily life with little ones. This time, it’s the day after a sleepless night (or at least, probably a disturbed night) and what that looks like for tired mums, dads and preschoolers who nevertheless still have to go to work and Nursery * BookTrust *

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Book SynopsisNow a Netflix movie, starring Susanna Skaggs A New York Times bestsellerThe dying wish of 16-year-old Lina''s mother was for her daughter to live in Tuscany and get to know her father, whom Lina has never met. Howard is the best man I''ve ever known, her mother says, he''ll keep you safe. Why did her mother wait so long to tell her about him? Lina has a happy life in Seattle and doesn''t want to leave. Shortly after she arrives at Howard''s home, Lina meets Sonya, who gives Lina a diary that belonged to Lina''s mother, the one she had kept while she was a photography student in Florence. While Lina is living her life and exploring Tuscany with her handsome neighbour, Ren, she follows in the footsteps of her mother and gets to know her as never before. She also finds out the truth about her father. Mostly she finds out about herself.Trade Review“Love & Gelato is the perfect summer read! The writing is smooth, using all five senses to draw you into a breathtaking world of heartache, new love and the magical country that is Italy.[…] All in all I can’t wait for this authors next book - I just discovered it will be set in Ireland - which I’m super excited for! Jenna Evans Welch is definitely a writer to watch out for. Swoon-worthy, emotional and full of colour, I give Love & Gelato 4 stars!” * whisperingwords747.blogspot.co.uk *“Overall, this is a quick, light-hearted summer read.” * thebookbag.co.uk *Ice cream and Italy are the perfect summer partners in Love & Gelato * S magazine and Sunday Express online *You’ll love it because: it’s a sugarcoated easy read, which is just what we need right now. * Cosmpolitan *

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Book SynopsisDare you enter the world of MONSTERS?The beloved World's Worst series has captivated millions of readers. You've met the world's worst children, the world's worst parents, the world's worst teachers and the world's worst pets but are you ready for the world's worst monsters?If you don't like ghosts, ogres, zombies, vampires, aliens, werewolves or mummies, DO NOT READ THIS BOOK.Laugh along to these ten terrifying tales of marvellous monsters, brought to you by David Walliams, and illustrated in glorious technicolour by Adam Stower.The World's Worst Pets was the bestselling children's book of 2022 (UK TCM Chart, 27 December 2022). David Walliams was most recently UK Children's number one bestseller with Robodog (UK TCM Chart, 11 April 2023).Trade Review‘The bestselling powerhouse that is David Walliams joins forces once more with talented illustrator Adam Stower for the latest hilarious and horrifying addition to the World's Worst series’ Waterstones, Best Books of the Year PRAISE FOR THE WORLD’S WORST SERIES: “For kids who would normally look at you as if you’re mad to suggest reading for pleasure” Independent “This really is Walliams at his most silly – the perfect combination for thousands of his loyal fans” Daily Mail “Laugh-out-loud funny and…downright disgusting” Daily Express “Walliams is a big author with big ideas and plenty of illustrations, all combining to make for real page-turners, even for kids who would normally look at you as if you’re mad to suggest reading for pleasure” Independent

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Book SynopsisFilled with a little girl's inventive stories, On the Way Home is by Jill Murphy, the author and illustrator of the bestselling Peace at Last and Whatever Next!Claire has hurt her knee so she sets off home to tell her mum all about it. On the way she meets her friends and tells them how the fall happened. But just how did it happen . . .? Was she dropped by a wolf, a slithering snake, an enormous dragon or a hairy gorilla?!On the Way Home is a fantastic journey of the imagination that every small child who tells the occasional tall tale will relate to! A bestselling classic that has been delighting readers for forty years.

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Book SynopsisEleven-year-old Maxwell is always, always in trouble. While visitingan elderly neighbour, he comes across a mysterious cabinet ofcuriosities and suddenly finds himself erased from his life: it'sas if he's never existed. Maxwell needs to find a way to reversehis erasure, with the help of his best friend Charlie and hissister Bex.

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Book SynopsisJohn Burningham was born in 1936. He studied illustration at the Central School of Art. His first children's book, Borka, was published in 1963, and it was awarded the Kate Greenaway Medal as the best illustrated book of the year. John Burningham collaborated with Ian Fleming on Chitty-Chitty-Bang-Bang, designing the model of the famous car. He lived in London with his wife Helen Oxenbury, also a well-known author and illustrator. John Burningham died on January 4th, 2019.

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Book SynopsisTen-year-old Leo dreams of performing in the West End. His love of dancing is getting him through the Luton heatwave, but his selective mutism is putting his spot in the end-of-summer dance show on the line. When chatty Richa moves in next door, Leo finds it easy to bond with her. She talks enough for the both of them ... at least to begin with. But when he learns her secret it's clear that Richa needs Leo's support as much as he needs hers. With Richa's help, will Leo be able to follow his dreams? Or will Leo's inability to talk cost him their friendship? A heart-warming story of courage and determination in the face of adversity, perfect for fans of Jacqueline Wilson, Lisa Thompson, Stewart Foster and Elle McNicoll.

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Book SynopsisThe perfect gift for new parents!Mums and Dads, breakfasts and bedtimes, toys and swings - and lots and lots of other delightful things!This endearingly illustrated picture book shows life as a new parent, from piggybacks to pushchairs. Delighting generation after generation of toddlers, The Baby''s Catalogue belongs in every nursery. Discover more timeless stories for babies and newborns from Alan Ahlberg:PeepoBaby''s Big Box of Little BooksTrade ReviewThe Ahlbergs belong with A A Milne and Lewis Caroll, to the greatest tradition of children's books, having the kind of genius that can dominate an era. * Sunday Times *

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Book SynopsisShortlisted for the Books Are My Bag 2020 Readers Awards 'With a bolt of lightning on my kicks . . . The court is SIZZLING. My sweat is DRIZZLING. Stop all that quivering. 'Cuz tonight I'm delivering,' raps twelve-year-old Josh Bell. Thanks to their dad, he and his twin brother, Jordan, are kings on the court. But Josh has more than basketball in his blood – he's got mad beats, too, which help him find his rhythm when it's all on the line. See the Bell family in a whole new light through Dawud Anyabwile's dynamic illustrations as the brothers' winning season unfolds, and the world as they know it begins to change.Trade Review"a brilliant blend of powerful poetry, great storytelling and energetic artwork" * The Week Junior *"Mesmerising... a beautifully constructed and powerfully emotional novel" * Irish Times *"Full of heartbreak and exhilaration" * Metro *"This graphic-novel adaptation . . . offers powerful visuals to an already-cherished narrative. A slam-dunk thrill" -- starred review * Kirkus *"With an impressive attention to detail, the powerful, dynamic illustrations fizz with energy... If any book is likely to turn sports fans into book fans or convince readers that poetry is cool, this is it." * BookTrust *

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Book SynopsisJoin Raya and her mama and aba as they enjoy iftar, bake Ramadan cookies, do good deeds around their community and visit the mosque. Raya is celebrating Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr with her family and inviting you along to learn more! It’s a time full of fun activities and celebrations, and a great opportunity to get closer to Allah. Learn about this special time as Raya makes Ramadan mubarak cards for her friends and has her hands decorated with henna! And when the month of Ramadan is over, Raya, her mama and aba, aunts, uncles and cousins have a magical Eid celebration, playing games, opening presents and eating delicious food. This bright and engaging picture book is the perfect way to introduce little ones to Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. Author Sara Khan brings the celebrations to life, drawing on her own experiences with her daughter, also named Raya! This book also offers fun activitTrade Review"In this title, readers are invited to join little Raya and her family in their magical celebrations for Ramadan and Eid Al-Fitr! Extra content includes a 16-page fun factivity section featuring a quiz, crafts and a recipe for Ramadan cookies.” * The Bookseller *

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Book SynopsisA magical, mischievous adventure into an incredible new world, from Tom Fletcher, number-one-bestselling author of The Danger Gang and The Christmasaurus.Lucy wakes up one morning to discover something very strange indeed. All the grown-ups in her town have disappeared.All the other kids in Whiffington are so excited! No more grown-ups means no more school! No more bedtime! No more rules!But Lucy wants her mum back - and nothing is going to stop her.So - along with her friends Norman and Ella - Lucy sets off on an unbelievable adventure into a topsy-turvy, back-to-front and inside-out new world . . . The world underneath her bed. The world of . . . The Creakers!The number one bestseller, packed with amazing illustrations by Shane Devries.Praise for The Creakers:''Stonkingly good . . . A compelling adventure and a nuanced celebration of friendship and fTrade ReviewStonkingly good . . . a compelling adventure and a nuanced celebration of friendship and family love * Guardian *Brilliantly inventive, genuinely funny, outrageously disgusting and above all, properly scary, this tale is a completely new take on the idea of monsters under the bed . . . Will keep readers captivated from start to finish * Teach Primary *

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Book SynopsisA Financial Times Book of the Year Nominated for The Yoto Carnegies Medal for Writing 2024 Shortlisted for The Week Junior Book Prize in 2023 An award-winning climate fiction novel that explores unlikely friendships as a group of children with disabilities find themselves at the heart of an eco-mystery. On a remote Scottish island, 14-year-old Max's life is changed forever when he loses his hearing in a boating accident. He has to navigate a new silent world aloneeven his parents don't understand that wearing a hearing aid doesn't mean he can hear clearly. On top of that, he's placed in a special educational needs class surrounded by kids he once picked on. When people start acting strangely and Max's hearing aid picks up odd sounds from a new wind farm off the coast, he suspects a sinister scientist is using wind turbines to experiment on the islanders. Could being different be an advantage? Max enlists the help of his classmates to shut down the government's secret test before it spins out of control

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Book SynopsisWelcome back to Planet Omar! The third book in Zanib Mian''s laugh-out-loud series, with amazing cartoon-style illustrations from Nasaya Mafaridik. Perfect for fans of Tom Gates and Wimpy Kid.When Omar and his friends come back after the school holidays, their lovely teacher seems to have been replaced by somebody much more grumpy. Overhearing other teachers talking about her, Omar decides something terrible has happened. Could she possibly have been abducted by ... aliens?!Omar persuades his friends to mount a rescue mission but what they find is very surprising!*Zanib Mian is a World Book Day author for 2021 with her Planet Omar title, Operation Kind.*Have you read the first book in the series, Accidental Trouble Magnet? Love Reading 4 Kids called it ''irresistible reading!''

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Book SynopsisThe twelfth in a fantastic series of animal stories for younger readers by Waterstones Children's Book Prize-shortlisted author Helen Peters, with beautiful black-and-white illustrations by Ellie Snowdon.Jasmine's dad is a farmer, and her mum is a large-animal vet, so Jasmine spends a lot of time caring for animals and keeping them out of trouble. Unfortunately, this often means she gets into hot water herself...Jasmine falls in love at first sight with the little Golden Retriever puppy she rescues, but she knows she won't be able to keep Sparkle forever. Jasmine soon sees that the playful, friendly puppy is quick and eager to learn, and has an incredible sense of smell. When a new girl starts at Jasmine's school, bringing her medical assistance dog with her, Jasmine starts to wonder. Could Sparkle have a future saving people's lives?Brilliant storytelling that will make you laugh and cry, this is Dick King-Smith for a new generation. Perfect for readers aged seven and up.Check out Jasmine's other adventures: A Piglet Called Truffle, A Duckling Called Button, A Sheepdog Called Sky and many more!

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Book SynopsisWhen Semira discovers a diary written by Hen, a girl living over 100 years ago, she finds the friend she has been desperately seeking. A friend who brings not just comfort, but inspiration to be brave, to fight for her place in the world, and maybe even to uncover the secrets of her own past. . .Trade ReviewPraise for Gill Lewis Lewis's confident, economical prose takes the reader up, up and away. * The Times *Vivid, difficult,and satisfying, this is magnificent storytelling. * The Guardian *The best book I have ever read. I couldnt stop reading it Its the BEST. * Lilybelle, Guardian Childrens Books website *Lewis produces something very special with each new book. * Daily Mail *Gill Lewis weaves an unforgettable tale of displacement, hope, and the search for freedom. * The Guardian *Gill Lewis has established herself as the principal contemporary writer of animal stories, combining a vet's knowledge of her subject with a novelist's capacity for character and plot. * Telegraph *

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Book SynopsisWhen eleven-year-old Cailin's mother takes a contract job on Victoria's eastern coast, Cailin's holiday plans are ruined. Worse, they're staying at her eccentric grandfather's shack at Whitefoam Cove. Cailin barely remembers him, let alone knows him. Grandpa doesn't have Wi-Fi, and his television is older than him. The memories of her father are everywhere and, to make matters worse, she's left her cricket bat at home. How will she make the team now? And how will she keep in touch with her best friend, Josie? It's going to be the worst summer ever.But life with Grandpa proves to be anything but boring. There's treasure to be found at Whitefoam Cove, and Cailin's collection of sea glass is growing rapidly. But just when cricket-mad Cailin and her estranged grandfather finally feel like they're making aconnection, disaster strikesand Cailin knows it's all her fault. Will Grandpa ever forgive her?Sea Glass is a family drama for readers aged 7-12 that explores how, despite difference and disaster, a generational gap is bridged over a shared enthusiasm for sea glass. This contemporary Australian middle grade novel celebrates the importance of family and environment and proves you're never too old to go treasure hunting.

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Book SynopsisA classic French story from Nobel Prize-winner Patrick Modiano and celebrated illustrator Jean-Jacques Sempé. Beautifully illustrated, this is a love letter to Paris, ballet and childhood for fans of The Little Prince, Le Petit Nicholas and Madeline. Catherine lives with her gentle father, Georges Certitude, who runs a shipping business in Paris with a failed poet named Casterade. Father and daughter share the simple pleasures of daily life: sitting in the church square, walking to school, going to her ballet class every Thursday afternoon. But just why did Georges change his name to Certitude? What kind of trouble with the law did Casterade rescue him from? And why did Catherine's ballerina mother leave to return to New York? Translated by William RodarmorTrade Review"Elegant. Apparently simple and transparent nostalgia belies its sophistication of observation. Deftly characterised illustrations." * Books for Keeps *"What particularly engages is the way Modiano captures memories of childhood: fragmented, misunderstood, but glowing in the crucible of recollection" * Booklist *"Really affecting" * Bookbag *"Feather-light illustrations. This lovely book suggests the delicacy and strength of an eggshell." * Publishers Weekly online *"Ravishing artwork. In surrendering our old certitudes, we may win insights that make our lives more fully human and humane in the present." * The Boston Globe *

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Book SynopsisA grim discovery brings disturbing revelations in this chilling ghost story from the late Marcus Sedgwick. A grim discovery brings disturbing revelations in this chilling ghost story from the late Marcus Sedgwick. While mucking about in the ruins of an old farm while on holiday in Yorkshire, James hears strange laughter echoing around the walls. The ghost of a young girl appears to him and urges James to follow her but at first he’s too afraid. When she appears again, this time James follows. But will he be able to face the terrible truth she reveals …?Trade Review"A ghost story guaranteed to reel you in from the first page and then give you the shivers" – The Times Children's Book of the Week "A melancholic yet spine-tingling ghost story written with grace and poignancy. The message of togetherness within landscapes and throughout history is the most perfect one Marcus could have left for his readers." – Keith Gray "Every now and again a book comes along that knocks me sideways. This is one of those books" – Kate Poels, author "Complex and atmospheric … Like all the best ghost stories, Ravencave is inextricably linked to place and people, with a raw emotional heart." – CLPE "The landscape is gorgeously rendered and the prose as eerie, luminous and clear as ever. Here teenagers will find hope, warmth and reconciliation." – Literary Review

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Book SynopsisWelcome back to Planet Omar! The fifth book in Zanib Mian''s laugh-out-loud series, with amazing cartoon-style illustrations. Perfect for fans of Tom Gates and Wimpy Kid.Omar and his friends are taking part in a national rocket building competition. With a little help from Omar''s scientist mum and dad and some fart power too, they come up with a rocket that''s ready to blast off.But when someone starts sabotaging the rockets, the boys find themselves on a new mission to reveal the culprit...*Zanib Mian is a World Book Day author for 2021 with her Planet Omar title, Operation Kind.*Have you read the first book in the series, Accidental Trouble Magnet? Love Reading 4 Kids called it ''irresistible reading!''

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Book SynopsisIn this stunning ninth book in the New York Times bestselling Keeper of the Lost Cities series, Sophie and her friends discover the true meaning of power – and evil. Sophie Foster changed the game. Now she's facing impossible choices:When to act. When to trust. When to let go. Her friends are divided and scattered, and the Black Swan wants Sophie to focus on their projects. But her instincts are leading her somewhere else.Stellarlune –  and the mysterious Elysian –  might be the key to everything. But finding truth in the Lost Cities always requires sacrifice. And as the Neverseen's plans sharpen into terrifying focus, it appears that everyone has miscalculated. The Lost Cities' greatest lie could destroy everything. And in the battle that follows, only one thing is certain: nothing will ever be the same. Books in the Keeper of the Lost Cities series:Keeper of the Lost CitiesExileEverblazeNeverseenLodestarNightfallFlashbackLegacyUnlocked

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Book SynopsisTally is autistic and proud. She used to feel that she had to hide her autism, but now Tally isdetermined to make sure people see who she really is. Except forone thing - Tally's school trip, which means new places, new peopleand new challenges.

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Book SynopsisThe Second World War has officially ended, but the streets are still a battleground - for food, for shelter, for protection... Felix is in hiding to stay safe, but finds he has been left holding the baby - literally. An orphaned infant has been left in his care and he will do everything he can to protect the child.Trade ReviewHaunting . . . dangerous and desperate, but also full of courage and hope * Guardian *Nail-biting . . . prepare for shock and tears * Sunday Times *

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Book Synopsis'Some books are about magic. Some books ARE magic. Seed will cast a spell on you' – Frank Cottrell-BoyceSeed is a funny, big-hearted story by award-winner Caryl Lewis about the power of hope and imagination when you believe in the impossible. Perfect for readers of 8-12. Illustrated in black and white throughout by George Ermos.Shortlisted for Breakthrough Children's Book of the Year, The Week Junior Book AwardsShortlisted for the Brandford Boase Award 2023Marty doesn't have much. Unlike his mum, who has billions of things: newspapers, holey shoes, rusty lawnmowers, broken picture frames – she keeps EVERYTHING! It's hard to leave the house. Marty wonders if anything will ever change.But on Marty's birthday, Grandad, with a glint in his eye, gifts Marty a very special seed. Grandad hasn't been this excited since he invented the bum scratcher 2000 or thought he'd brewed wonder fuel from rhubarb leaves! The seed grows bigger and bigger, and launches Grandad, Marty and his best friend Gracie on an impossible, wondrous plan fuelled by love, hopes and dreams.Praise for The Magician's Daughter by Caryl Lewis:'This heartwarming, witty and touching story is all about hope and belief . . . An absolute delight.' – Daily MailPerfect for fans of Ross Welford, Jenny Pearson and Lisa Thompson.Trade ReviewSome books are about magic. Some books ARE magic. Seed will cast a spell on you. A story about the way caring for each other creates real magic. -- Frank Cottrell-BoyceA near-perfect blend of witty humour, rollicking adventure, compelling characters and troubled families — all underpinned with an inspiring lesson about following your dreams. * Daily Mail *Wonderfully uplifting and hopeful * Katherine Woodfine, bestselling author of The Mystery of the Clockwork Sparrow *Pure joy. A heartswellingly gorgeous read about the power of hope, dreams, love and friendship. With shades of James and the Giant Peach, but entirely its own original tale, Seed is an absolute gem. -- Liz Hyder, bestselling award-winning author of BearmouthA real page-turner and so charming with vital messages about being kind -- @familybookwormsBig hearted, funny and wise, Seed by Caryl Lewis is a delightful, madcap adventure for children aged eight to 12. * Western Mail *A funny and tender story that deals with the power of imagination and the importance of believing anything is possible. * Golwg Magazine *Marty’s grandad gifts him with a very special seed that spells adventure in Lewis’ heart-warming, rip-roaring story about big dreams, hope and the power of imagination. * Waterstones Best Children's Books 2022 *I loved this… the wonderfully crazy and ridiculous main story is worked around with messages about hope, ambitions, self-fulfilment and love. * The Green Parent *

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Book SynopsisFrom acclaimed author and Costa winner Hilary McKay comes The Time of Green Magic: a beautiful, spell-binding novel about family, magic, an old house and a mysterious visitor . . .Abi and her two step-brothers, Max and Louis, find that strange things happen when they are alone in their eerie, ivy-covered new house.Abi, reading alone, finds herself tumbling deep into books, while Louis summons a startling guest through his bedroom window. Even Max has started to see shapes in the shadows . . .Their busy parents see none of it – but Louis’ secret visitor is growing too alarming to keep secret, and he finds he cannot manage without Max and Abi’s help.Can they find out where the mysterious creature has come from – and how to get it back there?

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Book Synopsis'A writer of comic genius - he has something of Roald Dahl's magic, but more heart' - Sunday TelegraphBudding magicians everywhere, prepare to be dazzled and astounded by the laugh-out-loud adventure – The Wonder Brothers! Written by multi-award-winning author Frank Cottrell-Boyce, illustrated throughout by Steven Lenton.It's . . . SHOW TIME!Drum roll please for Nathan (that's me) and Middy (that's her). We are . . . The Wonder Brothers!Cousins Middy and Nathan love magic, the on-stage, cape-swirling, bunny-out-of-a-hat kind. So, when the famous Blackpool Tower dramatically vanishes the night of the Big Switch-On, showman Nathan announces live on TV that they will magic it back home.With a stick of rock, a spangly cape, and a bit of misdirection, they end up lost in Las Vegas, home to the grand master of illusion, and magic legend, Perplexion. But, with a great illusionist, comes great mystery – and , in Las Vegas, nothing is as it seems . . .Trade ReviewThis book is funny, surprising and full of the wisdom behind the principles of conjuring, including misdirection, secret-keeping, awakening love and hope in the audience. It’s so ingenious and entertaining it makes you wonder how on earth Frank Cottrell-Boyce does it. * The Sunday Times *The Wonder Brothers is comedy gold . . . Cottrell-Boyce is an enchanter himself, and any story by him is guaranteed to get 9+ readers feverishly turning the pages. * The New Statesman *A laugh-out-loud writer * Guardian *Frank Cottrell-Boyce's stories make you laugh and cry. He's the real deal for children of eight and over -- Amanda Craig * Guardian *

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Book SynopsisYear 9 can be tough for everyone, but for Tally it feels even tougher. Make-up, boys, social media, GCSE prep - why is everythingstarting to feel so different?Tally has always known that being autistic means some things areharder for her than other people. But becoming a teenager has leftTally feeling like she has no idea who she is anymore.

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Book SynopsisThe stunning new 10+ story from the bestselling and award-winning author of TIME TRAVELLING WITH A HAMSTER, for anyone who loved the humour of WALL-E, the action of STAR WARS and the deeply touching emotion of ET.A small village in the wilds of Northumberland is rocked by the disappearance of twelve-year-old Tammy. Only her twin brother, Ethan, knows she is safe and the extraordinary truth of where she is. It is a secret he must keep, or risk never seeing her again.But that doesn't mean he's going to give up.Together with his friend Iggy and the mysterious (and very hairy) Hellyann, Ethan teams up with a spaceship called Philip, and Suzy the trained chicken, for a nail-biting chase to get his sister back that will take him further than anyone has ever been before.A remarkable story of sibling connection, friendship and interstellar adventure from the author Kiran Millwood Hargrave called one of my favourite middle grade writers.Trade ReviewPraise for THE KID WHO CAME FROM SPACE: "Original, amusing and gripping. Welford is a remarkably entertaining storyteller" Sunday Times Children's Book of the Week "Ross Welford is superb. This tense, rip-roaring, witty adventure is underpinned by a moving examination of love and loyalty" Daily Mail "A masterclass in children's storytelling" Waterstones.com, Best Books to Look Out For in 2020 “Ross Welford is superb at blending the raw emotion of troubled children with other-worldly imaginative, fantasy powers (in) this tense, rip-roaring, witty adventure.” The Daily Mail Praise for TIME TRAVELLING WITH A HAMSTER: ‘The gripping suspense truly makes time fly… the book’s heart and humour are hard to resist.’ Piers Torday, author of The Last Wild “Extremely clever and totally engaging.” The Irish Times “Intelligent, well crafted and impressive.” Nicolette Jones, The Sunday Times ‘Touching, silly and exciting by turns, this thrilling little book is an inventive take on time travel for children. Sure to be a hit with fans of R.J. Palacio's Wonder… an unforgettable, madcap story from a bright new talent in Children’s fiction.’ Waterstones “A touching tale of family, grief and love.” Daily Express ‘With intriguing twists from start to finish, this story is a real roller coaster of emotions. It warmed my heart and filled my head with wonder! A fast, funny and really satisfying read that sparks your imagination.’ Joseph, 10

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Book SynopsisWINNER OF THE DIVERSITY BOOK AWARDS, CHILDREN (UK) 2020'I've always wanted to be a Star Hunter... But I don't want to be the kind that looks for old stars that have already been burning for millions of years. I want to find the new ones - the ones that have only just been born and are searching for the people they have left behind...' Following the disappearance of her mum, 10-year-old Aniyah suddenly finds herself living in foster care. With her life in disarray, she knows just one thing for sure: her mum isn't gone for ever. Because people with the brightest hearts never truly leave. They become stars. So when a new star is spotted acting strangely in the sky, Aniyah embarks on the adventure of a lifetime to make sure everyone knows who it belongs to. An adventure that involves the Royal Observatory of London, a mischievous scurry of squirrels and the biggest star in Hollywood... Told through the innocent voice of a child, this story that explores the subtle faces and endless impacts of domestic violence, and celebrates the power of hope and resilience, from Onjali Raúf, the award-winning author of The Boy at the Back of the Class.*Parental guidance recommended: issues relating to domestic abuse included*Trade ReviewTackled the aftermath of domestic violence with a shining innocence * Guardian - ‘The best children’s books of 2019 for all ages’ *'The Star Outside My Window' is a lovely story about a girl who wants to be a star hunter when she grows up. * Irish Sunday Independent *

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