Children’s / Teenage fiction: Fantasy

Book SynopsisJust as Neil Gaiman’s The Graveyard Book reworked Kipling’s The Jungle Book for a modern audience with a liking for the supernatural, Devilskein & Dearlove is a darker, more edgy, contemporary reworking of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s classic The Secret Garden. An orphaned teenager is taken in by a reluctant distant relative, and in her new home makes an unexpected friend and finds a secret realm. It has shades of the quirky fantastical in the style of Miyazaki’s (Studio Ghibli) animated films like Spirited Away and Howl’s Moving Castle (originally a novel by Diana Wynne Jones).Alex says “As a child The Secret Garden was one of my first favourite novels - one of the first I relished reading by myself. Although Devilskein & Dearlove is very different, it was inspired by that novel and its themes.”“Alex Smith’s quirky imagination knows no bounds.” - André Brink

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Book SynopsisNominated for the Carnegie Medal 2017. Fifteen-year-old Blaze and Noah live in the same village, Sible Hedingham, more than 100 years apart. They both have the same gift or curse - they find they must draw pictures that later come true. In the 1860s Blaze is bullied, cheated and accused of being a witch and 'swam'. In the present day, Noah is used to everyone, even his parents, being afraid of him and is desperate to keep his drawing a secret. But as he gets closer to Beth, he must decide whether or not he can tell her the truth. Can Blaze's history help Noah and Beth work out their own story? Can the future be changed?

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Book SynopsisEllie Morgan wants a boy who's all hers. Just for once, it would be nice to meet someone that Sheila (the cow) hadn't got her claws in to. A remote farmhouse on Mount Snowdon is hardly the ideal setting for meeting anyone - unless, of course, you count her best friend George or creepy Darren (which Ellie doesn't). But when a boy, glimpsed through the mist and snow, lures her up to the Devil's Bridge, Ellie realises the place she knows so well still has its secrets ... The stronger her feelings for this strange boy become, the more she is in danger: a battle as old as Snowdon itself has been raging for centuries and now Ellie's caught in the middle. Something has left its lair. It's out there stalking her. Who ever said true love was easy?

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Book SynopsisThe invitation was delivered by bees. It wasn't addressed to anyone at all, but Ben knew it was for him. It would lead him to an old, shambolic museum, full of strange and bewitching creatures. A peculiar world of hidden mysteries and curious family secrets . . . and some really dangerous magic. Filled with her own wonderful illustrations, The Hippo at the End of the Hall is Helen Cooper's debut novel.Trade ReviewA fantastical and dreamlike adventure * Sunday Times *Glorious first work of full-length fiction * Guardian *Truly stunning . . . a pleasure to read * Books for Keeps *

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Book SynopsisSanjeev''s dog Jigsaw is missing in the middle of winter in New Jersey. But this tragedy is dwarfed by what happens to him in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Has he really entered the 6th Century and become the slave to monks traveling the Silk Road to Byzantium - and might they just be murderers? Trouble is even if he figures out how to get out of this, he?s got other problems: someone, or something, is coming after him. Part of the answer might be Sara, a girl who contacts him on the net and keeps talking about the Immortals. But who or what are The Three Hares and how can they stop the darkness about to engulf the world?

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Book SynopsisBegin the journey; discover your destiny... Set against a backdrop of Scottish myths and legends, follow the epic quest by a changeling, a selkie and a prince to find an ancient and powerful object, and save the kingdom. Ailsa doesn’t believe in faerie tales, only the monsters in them. But, with the mark on her face, most people consider her one of them - a changeling. Her secluded life shifts when she rescues two selkies from bloodthirsty raiders. Now she must act as their guard as they travel to the capital and then, with the help of the Prince of Eilanmor, journey north to find The Stone of Destiny - the only object protecting them all from the evil faerie queen. But all her life a malignant creature has stalked her through the forest. Can Ailsa find The Stone of Destiny before something wicked finds her?

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Book SynopsisJoin the journey; discover your destiny Set against the epic backdrop of Scottish myths and legends, comes The Cauldron of Life, the second title in The Four Treasures series written by Caroline Logan. In the Isles of Ossiana, Harris has been captured by the Faerie Queen and Ailsa must journey once again into the heart of Eilanmòr to rescue him. But Ailsa is struggling with her newfound magic and the revelations about her real identity. Is the Faerie Queen Ailsa's mother? Is everything she believed about her past a lie? Meanwhile, a war is brewing between much more powerful forces. The lines between good and evil are blurring, and Ailsa must decide where she stands… Perfect for fans of Sarah J Maas and Holly Black, Caroline’s Scottish upbringing and influences shine through in The Four Treasures series and teenage and young adult readers will delight in returning to the enchanting world of Eilanmor. With LGBTQ+ characters, as well as themes of self-discovery, loyalty, and love, there is something for everyone in The Cauldron of Life.

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Book SynopsisFOREWORD INDIES BOOK OF THE YEAR AWARDS WINNER NOMINATED FOR THE CARNEGIE MEDAL 2021 An old promise. A mysterious tiger. A Magical adventure. Lal and his brother Dilip miss home. They don't like drizzle, midges, or the tiger skin rug in their creepy new house. All they want is to leave Scotland and go back to India. But that's before they make friends with Jenny, and before the tiger comes back to life... The tiger tells them it will take them home in return for their help: it cannot rest until it fulfils an old promise. Can Lal, Dilip and Jenny help it on its quest? Who is trying to stop them? And will they get back home? Fly into the night with this fabulous tale of adventure, friendship and what it means to find home.Trade Review'Tiger Skin Rug is such a charming story, full of magic, hope and friendship. It will fly (like a tiger) off the shelves'. - Melvin Burgess 'A beautifully written tale of magic and adventure, with highly relatable characters whose diverse cultures are skilfully woven together in a wonderfully imaginative plot.' - Victoria Williamson 'Tiger Skin Rug is beautifully written and shimmers with magic. Be transported on a thrilling adventure to the vividly evoked slums and palaces of India'. - Lindsay Littleson 'Spellbinding. Thrilling. Heartwarming. I devoured it in one gulp.' - Jenni Spangler 'A warm, endearing and mesmerising brand of magic is guaranteed to cast a spell over young readers in this enchanting tale of friendship and family.' - Pam Norfolk, Lancashire Post

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Book SynopsisCats have nine lives. Ben has one. Keeping it will test him to the very limit.An Amazon expedition gone wrong throws Ben into a world of superstition and adventure.Now he must survive the mysterious Jaguar Trials to escape the jungle and uncover the truth about the lost City of Gold.In this spellbinding children’s adventure, award-winning author Ruth Eastham teaches us the value of friendship, and helps us to discover that there is more than just one kind of treasure.Trade Review‘The Jaguar Trials is an action packed intriguing adventures that draws upon the mythology surrounding the lost city, creating a story which is part adventure, part thriller and part mystery with a good helping of magic, which should enthral any reader.’ * Space on the Bookshelf *‘It’s a nail-biting read, the tension heightened by the supernatural backdrop.’ * Lovereading4Kids *Table of ContentsPrologue; PART 1 – AMAZONIA; 1 The River; 2 Sabotage; 3 Amber And Jade; 4 Drowned Ghosts; 5 The Green Hell; 6 Professor Erskine; 7 Shaman; PART 2 – THE DEATH TRIALS; 8 Unquiet Spirits; 9 Dead End; 10 The Trial of The Hanging Shroud; 11 Woven Water; 12 The Trial of The Sapphire Streak; 13 Hunters; 14 Moonlight; 15 Escape; 16 Whispers; 17 The Trial of The Howling Heights; 18 Fool’s Gold; 19 Valley Of Shadows; 20 Guardians of The Dead; 21 Journey’s End; PART 3 – CITY OF Z; 22 Dead City; 23 Masks; 24 The One; 25 The Golden Man; 26 Flood; 27 Redemption; 28 El Dorado; Acknowledgements; About the author.

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Book SynopsisA magical, captivating tale of adventure set in imperial Russia. St Petersburg, Russia 1725. Katinka Dashkova is running for her life because everything she knows is changing. Katinka, a dazzling ballerina with a hunched back, and her friends Alexei the Giant and Nikolai the dwarf are different. That's why they are part of Peter the Great's Circus of Curiosities. But the Tzar is dead and they must flee the Winter Palace. Guided by a special map, they set out across Russia running for their lives. An enthralling and delicious blend of history and fiction.Trade ReviewA BRILLIANTLY SUSPENSEFUL NOVEL WHICH SHOULD HAVE EVEN THE MOST RELUCTANT READER EAGER TO REACH THE NEXT CLIFF-EDGE. The Telegraph, Book of the Week.THRILLING AND MOVING. Clare Balding. A VIVIDLY TOLD DEBUT. Fiona Noble, The Bookseller, October Previews. A BEAUTIFULLY CRAFTED DEBUT BRIMMING WITH ADVENTURE- A CLASSIC IN THE MAKING. A. M Howell, author of The Garden of Lost Secrets. WORD PERFECT.STORYTELLING MAGIC. Scott Evans, Mr E Primary. BEAUTIFUL DESCRIPTIONS AND A BRILLIANT GRIPPING PACE. Books for Topics

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Book SynopsisPICKED BY THE OBSERVER AS ONE OF THE BEST CHILDREN'S BOOKS OF 2020. "Long ago" and "far away" were comprehensively nailed by Robin Scott-Elliot in The Acrobats of Agra (Everything With Words). Circus performers are a reliably unruly device in children's fiction, and here apprentice acrobat Bea, her teacher, his tiger and their new friend Ping performed myriad leaps of faith to outfox a siege as the empire began to slip. OBSERVER-From the author of The Tzar's Curious Runaways, this is another breath-taking adventure .' READING ZONE -All in all, this is up there with a trip to the circus for thrills and breath-taking excitements.' Lovereading4Kids -We love the way Scott-Elliot spirits magical fiction from historical fact. This marvellous wee book is nothing short of triumph!' Sunday Post -A magical tale based on the true story of a lost French circus during the Indian rebellion. A breath-taking adventure. School Zone, Librarian's book choice 5/5 starTrade ReviewPICKED BY THE OBSERVER AS ONE OF THE BEST CHILDREN'S BOOKS OF 2020. "Long ago" and "far away" were comprehensively nailed by Robin Scott-Elliot in The Acrobats of Agra (Everything With Words). Circus performers are a reliably unruly device in children's fiction, and here apprentice acrobat Bea, her teacher, his tiger and their new friend Ping performed myriad leaps of faith to outfox a siege as the empire began to slip. OBSERVER-From the author of The Tzar's Curious Runaways, this is another breath-taking adventure .' READING ZONE -All in all, this is up there with a trip to the circus for thrills and breath-taking excitements.' Lovereading4Kids -We love the way Scott-Elliot spirits magical fiction from historical fact. This marvellous wee book is nothing short of triumph!' Sunday Post -A magical tale based on the true story of a lost French circus during the Indian rebellion. A breath-taking adventure. School Zone, Librarian's book choice 5/5 star

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Book SynopsisThe Keeper of the Crystals is an adventure fantasy series for seven to nine year olds. It follows the adventures of Eve and Oscar as they tap in to the power of the crystals.

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Book SynopsisExperience the journey of a young heroine through a wilderness of murder and myth...Young rebel warrior Amiel begins a deadly mission into uncharted forest lands. Her town is under threat by a mysterious warlord known only as Decius, who lurks among the trees. Soon he plans to march forth with his army, leaving only death and destruction. To save her homeland, Amiel must find and destroy Decius-even if it means sacrificing her life in the process. But, as she journeys further from civilisation, Amiel's reality begins to shift. Myths of strange saints and powerful warriors that use forgotten techniques slowly become reality. In the dirt and shadows of the forest, familiar figures are twisted, with even holy men harbouring a rage in their hearts. Will Amiel's mission be victorious? Can she triumph over the evil Decius and save her homeland? She has to believe it will be so...Trade Review"Masterfully weaving mythology, fantasy, suspense and mystery together, author Jonathan Watts draws on legends, folklore and tales as diverse as Heart of Darkness, Apocalypse Now, Lord of the Rings and The Dark Tower to spin a suspenseful tale of one woman's quest towards what she imagines is her inevitable death." -- continentalop, Amazon UK

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Book SynopsisAidan has spent most of his life keeping a low profile because his mum has a terrible secret - one that he can't be trusted to keep if he mixes too much with other kids or goes to school. You see, Aidan's mum is part-dragon. She has scales and claws and can breathe fire. But she is terrified of anyone finding out. When Aidan's mum suddenly disappears, Aidan and his best friend Charlotte set out on a dangerous adventure to find her. They track her to a murky research laboratory on the other side of the country, and there they find several other part-mythic-beast `freaks' all in the thrall of an evil scientist who is hell-bent on stealing their special powers for himself. Aidan and Charlotte have to find a way to rescue Dr Krinksky's victims from the horrors of his lab and bring his mum back home safe and sound.Trade ReviewPart heart-warming family drama (my favourite scenes are between Aidan and his mother), part rip-roaring kidnapping yarn, this story is a clever blend of realism and fantasy for children who like adventure tales with lashings of humour and heart. * Irish Independent *A fun-filled mystery adventure, with mythical creatures and a near-death experience, that will make you laugh and cry right to the very end. * Inis Magazine *

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Book SynopsisA suspenseful teen fantasy about young love, dark mystery and magic ‘Philip Womack is a writer of huge talent’ Daily Telegraph Something is menacing Mundham Farm. Does it come from outside – or within? Who or what are the Samdhya, the supernatural people described in the old handwritten diaries Tom finds in his uncle’s house? As Tom starts to uncover the truth and learn new details about his parents' death, he is confronted with a stark choice: on the one hand, infinite power; on the other, freedom. Which will he choose? 'Womack’s blend of action and philosophising will ensure a big following.’ Sunday Telegraph Trade Review"Wildlord crackles with an otherworldly atmosphere reminiscent of the great Alan Garner." * The Financial Times *"Womack's stylish prose makes this fantasy novel very much worth reading." * The Irish Times *“A gripping, morally complex fantasy by one of my favourite YA writers. Philip Womack deserves to be much more widely read.” -- Meg Rosoff"Made me feel I was reading a classic from the shelves of my childhood." -- Jonathan Stroud"‘Ancient sorcery and wild magic clash in this thrilling tale which explores love, loss, and the power of friendship." -- Katherine Langrish"A magical tale of malevolence, which spirits readers away on a journey through history and mystery." -- Pet O'Connell * The Echo *"Fans of Sarah Maria Griffin’s Other Words for Smoke will enjoy this darkly glittering and malevolently magical tale of found family, betrayal and power." -- Fiona Murphy * Paper Lanterns *"If you’re looking for a gripping adventure with a supernatural edge, this is just the ticket." * City Kids *"A beautifully written, highly imaginative fantasy adventure." -- Anne Cunningham * The Meath Chronicle *"A wonderfully heady and atmospheric adventure ... Womack is a fine writer." -- Andrea Reece * LoveReading4Kids *"Wildlord weaves magic and folklore into a thought-provoking teen adventure." * CultureFly *"A richly atmospheric and beautifully written addition to literature about the fiercer kind of fairy." * New Statesman *"Womack infuses the novel with a creeping sense of disconnection from the contemporary world, emphasizing this ethereal tale’s claustrophobic atmosphere." * Publishers Weekly *"Philip Womack is skilful at creating suspense." * Armadillo Magazine *"This was a great suspenseful novel, it worked well as a teen novel and I think adults would enjoy this too." * ***** NetGalley Review * "A fantastic YA story." * ***** NetGalley Review *'I really enjoyed the imaginative magic system and setting. It’s very mystical and mysterious!' * Luminous Libro Blog *'I really enjoyed the worldbuilding in this book. I enjoyed exploring this place just as much as Tom did. There were secrets and twists to discover around every corner. I enjoyed the mysteries as well. I think the best part of the book was the relationships forged between the characters. I also thought the addition of the dialects spoken by the characters lent a great authenticity to the characters ... Great read for fantasy and mystery fans!' * Goodreads/Netgalley Review *

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Book SynopsisVenture into the caves of the Pajoli to rescue Obishaa, ward to the Lightbringer Derilion. Every decision could lead one step closer to victory or death. Fight fierce monsters, trade with unscrupulous merchants and help the entrapped to ensure freedom. Cult of the Pajoli is book one in the Arcane Rites saga, where you control every action of Derilion the Lightbringer. With nothing but her wits, her weapons and her flaming shield, navigate the caves and outwit the foes to rescue Obishaa and live to fight another day.

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Book SynopsisEllie is no stranger to surprises, so when Amara, a magical mynah bird, visits her one morning and delivers an invitation to a mysterious gathering, Ellie takes it all in her stride. This, she hopes will be the start of her training and the beginning of her search to find the lost Earth Witches. But is she really prepared for the adventure? Will she be strong enough to overcome the dangers that lie ahead and will she learn to control her newly found powers? Ellie Juneman: Earth Witch (in training) is a Child's Eye publication. Child's Eye is the new home for children's literature in the Redshank imprint of Libri Publishing. Designed to appeal to children and parents Child's Eye publishes quirky stories with an edge that deal with a variety of subjects from the child's viewpoint. Scary, cruel, or just downright funny these stories invite the discerning reader to step into the weird and sometimes disconcerting world of a child's imaginings. Child's Eye books can also address issues affecting children such as bullying, family difficulties and health and can provide the stimulus for valuable conversations.

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Book SynopsisPraise for The Weather Weaver: ‘This magical, highly original story of a girl who learns to control the weather will blow you away with its drama, warmth and wit.’ Anna Wilson ‘A storm-swept adventure brimming with Shetland magic.’ Alex English Once a year, weather weavers from all over the globe come together at the Gathering, to trade weather magic and stories. Stella and Nimbus can’t wait to meet other weather weavers, but they’re in for a frosty welcome. Tamar has always been a rule-breaker. This time, she’s broken the law, but it’s Stella who’ll lose everything if the trial goes badly. Can Stella and Nimbus thaw the hearts of the council elders, or will winter tear them apart?

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Book SynopsisAutumn Moonbeam loves gymnastics and dance so when Sparkledale Dance Academy have try-outs for their competitive dance team, Black Cats, she thinks it’s the most broom-tastic opportunity ever! Just one problem, Autumn is nervous and worries she won’t make it onto the team. And then she discovers that her nasty neighbour Severina Bloodworth is trying out too. But with her best friend Batty by her side can Autumn overcome her shyness, lack of confidence and magical mishaps to be chosen to join Sparkledale Dance Academy? Enchanting, fun and full of heart, this is a story about growing into yourself, following your dreams and making new friends along the way. With added stunts and magic, of course!

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Book SynopsisTwo friends awaken a world of myth and magic in this epic middle grade fantasy perfect for fans of Rick Riordan. It's not every day that you find a famous weather woman bound by magic to a tree deep in the woods. Or discover that the weatherwoman is in fact Sunna, the Norse Goddess of the Sun, and one of the seven day guardians who keep time in order. But that's just what happens to new friends Buzz and Mari--and it's only the start of their adventure. Now, as humanity are forced into a lockdown called the Unmorrow Curse and are forced to repeat the same Saturday over and over again, Buzz and Mari must journey to collect the Runes of Valhalla and awaken the other day guardians, before vengeful god Loki can get to them first.

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Book SynopsisEsther Mettlestone-Staranise (cousin to Bronte) is looking forward to another year at Katherine Valley Boarding School. But she arrives to find a number of strange and unsettling changes. Her new teacher is rumoured to be an Ogre. The mountains surrounding the school - usually a delight of glaciers, teashops, lakes and Faeries - are now crowded with wicked Shadow Mages. Meanwhile, on the other side of the kingdom, the little Prince of Cloudburst who was stolen from the seashore by a Water Sprite, has found his way home. The King and Queen are planning the biggest party in their Kingdom's history to welcome him.As secrets and dangers escalate, Esther - who is not talented like her sisters, nor an adventurer like her cousin - must find answers to several puzzles. Why is her teacher behaving so oddly? Which of Esther's classmates is the Spellbinder? And could the Stolen Prince of Cloudburst be connected in some way…?Perhaps Esther is more talented than she thinks as she must battle to save her school, her family, and possibly her whole world… Esther Mettlestone-Staranise (cousin to Bronte) is looking forward to another year at Katherine Valley Boarding School. But she arrives to find a number of strange and unsettling changes. Her new teacher is rumoured to be an Ogre. The mountains surrounding the school - usually a delight of glaciers, teashops, lakes and Faeries - are now crowded with wicked Shadow Mages.Trade ReviewThis title, like its siblings, is a perfectly accessible stand-alone, although, together, they give a deeper immersion and lay the groundwork of something like a middle-grade version of Terry Pratchett’s Discworld—fantasy adventure steeped in humor, with a touch of satire, and set in a whimsical secondary world of the highest order. * The Booklist *There’s a lot packed into this sweet tale told in a deceptively simple, authentic 12-year-old voice. Without devolving into a didactic tone, this novel addresses the concept of safe adults, the danger of comparing oneself to others, the importance of telling the truth and standing up to bullies, and the value of apologizing. Readers can return to this text over and over, and always discover something new. VERDICT: A delightfully quirky story with nuance, depth, and a colorful cast of characters, this book begs for multiple readings. * School Library Journal *

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Book SynopsisMaggie Blue is adjusting to a quieter life, back living with her aunt Esme and hanging out with friends Ida and Will as well as her beloved Hoagy the cat. She tries to forget about the events of the previous year - but she's being watched, and one day a small white bird appears. Where has the white crow come from, and why won't it leave Maggie alone? Little does she know that the Dark World is waiting for her to return... and when Cynthia her mum is kidnapped and taken there, Maggie only has no choice but to go back. With the help of Hoagy and some new friends by her side, Maggie must go back to the place that she never wished to see again, if she's ever to see her mum - or gain control of her own life - again.Trade ReviewStunning and immersive * E L Norry *Deeply thoughtful, inventive and sophisticated fantasy… a gripping action adventure. * Nicki Thornton *Finding light in a dark world has never been more relevant than it is today. Explores themes of identity and mental health with a deft and sensitive touch. * Lancashire Post *[An] endearing, relatable thirteen-year-old heroine, in this beautifully-written book, with all the atmosphere, style and invention of classic children’s fantasy. * Lovereading *Maggie Blue is back for her second adventure and the stakes are even higher. Another thrilling and distinctive fantasy adventure.- Books for Keeps * Books for Keeps *Fraught with conflict, perilous journeys and unravelling secrets. Masterfully constructed… [with] underlying themes of mental health and the exploitation of the natural world. * Just Imagine *

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Book SynopsisLonglisted for the Branford Boase AwardShortlisted for the Alexandra Palace AwardMaggie Blue is adjusting to a quieter life, back living with her aunt Esme and hanging out with friends Ida and Will as well as her beloved Hoagy the cat. She tries to forget about the events of the previous year - but she's being watched, and one day a small white bird appears. Where has the white crow come from, and why won't it leave Maggie alone? Little does she know that the Dark World is waiting for her to return... and when Cynthia her mum is kidnapped and taken there, Maggie only has no choice but to go back. With the help of Hoagy and some new friends by her side, Maggie must go back to the place that she never wished to see again, if she's ever to see her mum - or gain control of her own life - again.

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Book SynopsisWith an invisible girl, a parliament of owls and a pen that writes by itself, the journey to the garden of the Midnight Swan might be Seren's most dangerous adventure yet. in this third book of the award-winning CLOCKWORK CROW series, Seren and Tomos must try to help the Crow find the way back to his human form. But why is Captain Jones enquiring about Seren's past? How have the sinister Fair Family gate-crashed the Midsummer Ball, and what is the one desire of the mysterious Midnight Swan?Trade Review'Full of deep fairytale resonance, Fisher's writing stands out in the mind's eye like blood drops on snow.' The Guardian

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Book SynopsisWhen animals talk, it's time humans listened: Harlon has been raised to protect her younger siblings, twins Ash and Xeno, and their outlawed power of communicating with animals. But when the sinister Automators attack their mountain home they must flee for their lives. Xeno is kidnapped and Harlon and Ash are separated. In a thrilling and dangerous adventure they must all journey alone through the ice fields, forests and oceans of Rumyc to try to rescue each other and fulfil a mysterious promise about a lost island made to their mother. A stunning environmental epic with cover and chapter illustrations by award-winning illustrator, Jackie Morris.Trade Review'The feel of an absolute modern classic about it ... Hope and beauty are a hard song to sing, but Nicola does, and this is it.' Jackie Morris; ‘…balances the line between grief and wonder, hope and fear. I was chilled, heartbroken and felt reflected in it too, but the story, it is glorious and visionary with epic adventures and beautiful characters! I loved it so much.' Dara McAnulty; 'A gripping adventure that will set your heart racing and stir your soul. Listen to the song and it might just awake the wild in you.’ Helen Scales; 'Beautiful. Heart-wrenching, gripping, strange and glorious.' Liz Hyder; 'The Song That Sings Us is a story of our time. It parallels the urgency of the challenges we face to protect this world.’ Gill Lewis; 'Wild, powerful and passionate, an extraordinary weaving of fierce action and tender poetry, a heart-wrenching yet hopeful symphony of the threads that connect all life on Earth.’ Sophie Anderson

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Book SynopsisWho you are if you’ve never seen another face like yours? Where do you belong if you don’t know where your home is? What do you call yourself when others call you ‘freak'...? Skrimsli is a second fantasy adventure from author Nicola Davies, set in a world where animals and humans can sometimes share their thoughts. It traces the early life of Skrimsli, the tiger sea captain who stole readers’ hearts in The Song that Sings Us. He and his friends, Owl and Kal, must first escape the clutches of tyrannical circus owner Kobret Majak and his twin assassin-acrobats, then stop a war and save an ancient forest! Skrimsli and his friends are helped by desert princess the Palatine and her eagle, a chihuahua who thinks she’s a wolf, a horse with heart of gold and the crew of a very unusual ship. This is a story full of excitement and danger, that explores themes of friendship, loyalty, identity and love, in the context of some of humanity’s toughest problems.

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Book SynopsisTen years have passed since the village menfolk left, forced to fight in the Great War. To protect their homes and families, the women of the village choose the fiercest and best from their midst and create a band of sisters, Na Trodaoirí. As Moll begins her training, does she have what it takes?

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Book SynopsisMoll and Liam come across a monstrous beast An Bhrúid Dhubh. The village council is concerned is the fate of the village in danger? Moll and Liam are sent to Oileán na nDraoithe in a search for clarity. And it is there they meet Sorcha, the Raven Sorceress.

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Book SynopsisThis funny and quirky picture book celebrates children's imagination. The narrator of this book knows exactly what monsters are like: they never brush their hair or go to the dentist; they don’t wear glasses or play the piano or put on their shoes . . . Monsters don’t know they are monsters. They don’t do this and they don’t do that, and do you know why? Because monsters don’t exist!

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Book SynopsisJourney into the Otherlands ... Steven has a secret. The monsters in his dreams are real. Trolls live in the abandoned railway embankment, the Old Green Grumble hides in the allotments, and somewhere nearby lie the Otherlands. Who is the mysterious girl who calls the strange creatures her friends? What will happen when he visits their magical world? And what can Steven do when a dark spell threatens everything, and the monsters turn to him for help? A magical fantasy adventure full of friendship and fairy tales on the edge of Cirencester, perfect for readers aged 8+

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Book Synopsis“I’ll have what is mine . . .” With Velda overthrown and the Storm Laws abolished, hundreds of young Storm Weavers will be reunited with their stolen clouds. But the very first cloud taken belonged to Tamar’s last apprentice – the sea witch. When Heather returns, seeking to lay the past to rest, the first person she turns to is Stella. But how far can you trust a sea witch? Is she seeking redemption, or plotting her final revenge? With the Teran rising from the deep and the island in his icy grip, Stella and her friends will have to fight to save weather as we know it. Cover illustration by David Dean.

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Book SynopsisIn a remote village overshadowed by a gruesome legend and ancient superstitions, who can say what’s real, what’s not, and what should stay buried deep inside your head? The Black Air is a spellbinding contemporary novel with a dark mystery at its heart. Set in the depths of rural Lancashire as a community marks the 400th anniversary of the Long Byrne witches’ deaths, this is a story about obsession, mental health, disordered eating, the supernatural, and the lengths that teenage girls will go to for the sake of all-consuming female friendships. Cover illustration by Sarah Dennis.

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Book SynopsisNo witch is excited about gloomy magic-free November apart from young hag Clemmie who is relieved to finally be done with October’s magical mess. But if there’s no more magic, then where are all the armour-clad knights coming from? When even their enemy coven, the Morgans, don’t have any answers, the Merlyns are on the run. Neither the Morgan or Merlyn covens want to burn so they will have to work together to solve the mystery of where the witch-hunting knights and the all-engulfing flames are coming from. Will Clemmie be able to find her voice in time to save her family? Continuing directly on from THE OCTOBER WITCHES, this NOVEMBER sequel is full of bonfires, knights, family disasters and one very important round table. Cover illustration by Heidi Cannon.

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Book Synopsis12-year-old Mwikali is moving to a new school in Nairobi and just wants her life to be normal. But when she meets Soni, Odwar and Xirsi who reveal that she is descended from an ancient bloodline of legendary Kenyan warriors, all hope of a normal life fades. Now, with an array of malign forces massing, Mwikali must delve deep into the past to discover her ancestry, learn to harness her extraordinary powers, and enter a race against time to defeat a village elder who has turned to dark magic in an effort to gain ultimate power...A fantasy adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat right to the moment of its breathtaking conclusion. Trade Review“With its important lessons about self-acceptance and its action-packed scenes of fighting monsters, Mwikali and the Forbidden Mask is a delightful fantasy novel.”-Foreword Reviews, 5 Stars * Foreword Reviews *“This is an exciting fantasy adventure – with an urgent mystery to solve and a surprise ending. A range of themes are covered – including the idea that true power comes from believing in yourself, using your skills, learning to trust and cooperate with others. The good news for young readers hungry for more, is that this is the first in a new series about the Intasimi warriors.”-Book for Keeps, 5 Stars * Books for Keeps *“A fantastic introduction to Kenyan culture and a great story too!”-Karen Sands-O’Conner, British Academy Global Professor of Children's Literature"Nguru's series-opening debut is rich in the mythology and beauty of Kenya. Mwikali's path from self-doubt to confidence inspires, and her struggles with friendship feel universal. A handful of charming full-page illustrations enhance the work. A heartfelt page-turner."-Kirkus Reviews“This was a gripping fast paced fantasy story and I found it engrossing! If you enjoy fantasy stories full of magic and adventure I would definitely recommend this!”-TOPPSTA

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Book SynopsisThe beats were loud, the lights were bright. The cats drank milk and danced all night. Superstar DJ Sam Francisco's music is keeping Buzzkill Bill awake. Bill sends dogs, pest control and even the police to shut it down. When he pulls the plug things look bleak, but it’s the people (and cats) who make a party, not the fancy equipment. Superstar DJ Sam Francisco’s party is keeping Buzzkill Bill awake. He sends his dogs to shut it down. Then pest control, the firebrigade and the police! When Bill pulls the plug things look bleak, but luckily it’s the people (and the cats) who make a party, not the fancy equipment.Trade Review"Have you ever wondered why your cats sleep all day? Well in Sam Francisco, King of the Disco we might unlock the secret to why our furry felines are so sleepy!” – Crawley Waterstones "I absolutely loved Sam Francisco, King of the Disco it is so joyous, fun and entertaining that you won’t be able to stop smiling.” – Waterstones Head Office

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Book SynopsisYou are the warrior, Lone Wolf, last of the Kai Masters of Sommerlund and sole survivor of the massacre that destroyed your kinsmen during a bitter war with your age-old enemies the Darklords of Helgedad. You have given your solemn pledge to restore the Kai to their former glory, ensuring the security of your land in the years to come. Diligent study of the tome calledThe Book of the Magnakaihas enabled you to master only three of the ten Magnakai Disciplines. Now, you must fulfil your pledge by completing the quest first undertaken by Sun Eagle over one thousand years ago. It is a quest that will take you deep into Castle Death - a dangerous journey not completed successfully since the time of the Sun Eagle.

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Book SynopsisThirteen-year-old Juan's summer is off to a terrible start. First, his parents separate. Then, almost as bad, Juan is sent away to his strange Uncle Tito's house for the entire holiday! Who wants to live with an oddball recluse who has zigzag eyebrows, drinks fifteen cups of smoky tea a day, and lives inside a huge, mysterious library? As Juan adjusts to his new life among teetering, dusty shelves, he notices something odd: the books move on their own! He rushes to tell Uncle Tito, who lets his nephew in on a secret: Juan is a Princeps Reader, which means books respond magically to him, and he's the only one who can find the elusive, never-before-read Wild Book. An unforgettable adventure story about books, libraries, and the power of reading.Trade ReviewA must-read for book-lovers everywhere' (BOOKTRUST); A beautifully written ode to the inherent magic of books, a timeless celebration of reading' (FOREWORD REVIEWS); `Equal parts ecology and magical realism, Villoro entrusts young readers to care for and sustain the magic'(LOS ANGELES REVIEW OF BOOKS).Table of ContentsThe Sepration;The Vial of Iron;Uncle Tito;Books that Change Their Location;Remedies from the Pharmacy;Control Your Power; The Story a Book Tells Is Not Always the Same;The Shadow Books;The Wild Book;The Story Is Erased; An Enemy;The Pirate Book;The Prince Makes the Rules;Tito Cooks Novels;Catalina in the Library;Time and Cookies;Motors that Make no Noises; A Zigzag Radiation;The Shadow Club;Juicier Bait;What Starts When Something Ends.

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