Children’s / Teenage fiction: Friendship stories

Book SynopsisSpeak enters the world of Gossip Girl in this modern immigrant story from New York Times bestselling author Kelly Yang about two girls navigating wealth, power, friendship, and trauma. They?re called parachutes: teenagers dropped off to live in private homes and study in the United States while their wealthy parents remain in Asia. Claire Wang never thought she?d be one of them, until her parents pluck her from her privileged life in Shanghai and enroll her at a high school in California.Suddenly she finds herself living in a stranger?s house, with no one to tell her what to do for the first time in her life. She soon embraces her newfound freedom,especially when the hottest and most eligible parachute, Jay, asks her out.Dani De La Cruz, Claire?s new host sister, couldn?t be less thrilled that her mom rented out a room to Claire. An academic and debate team star, Dani is determined to earn her way into Yale, even if it means competing with privileged kids who are buying their way to the top. But Dani?s game plan veers unexpectedly off course when her debate coach starts working with her privately.As they steer their own distinct paths, Dani and Claire keep crashing into one another, setting a course that will change their lives forever.Trade Review“[Parachutes] is about the radical possibility of young women finding and detonating their voices. Yang takes a sledgehammer to rape culture itself, swinging with equal parts artistry and force. If this were a television series it would look fabulous and land deep.” — New York Times Book Review "In her YA debut, Yang (Front Desk) draws from personal experience and the news to tell a contemporary story of class discrepancy, the pervasiveness of rape culture, and the Asian diaspora... a multifaceted read, by turns poignant, fun, and exultant in its celebration of the multitudinous experiences and strength inherent in diasporic identity." — Publishers Weekly (starred review) "A fierce entrance into YA, navigating a plethora of complex themes with great honesty... Claire and Dani’s mettle and solidarity as they contend with the institutions and privilege that hide abuse is gripping and empowering. Yang offers a compelling exploration of the parachute experience and the intersection of ethnicity, class, and reputation, while underscoring striking cultural parallels between America and China. Strong characterization and thoughtful writing make for an unforgettable read." — ALA Booklist (starred review) "Yang deftly weaves in parallels to recent real-life events... On top of these explorations of nationality and wealth is the realistically pervasive look at rape culture... In short alternating chapters narrated by Dani and Claire, Yang creates a delicate balance between these heavier issues and the lighter moments of high school... [A] powerful exploration of race, class, and power through multiple lenses... An engrossing read that will spark discussions on a wide range of issues." — School Library Journal (starred review) "Yang has created two distinct and vibrant voices that shimmer with passion for both justice and independence... The convincing narrative, told in alternating first-person perspectives, confronts pervasive and xenophobic stereotypes, with secondary characters’ complex identities adding depth and emotion to the story." — Horn Book Magazine "Yang writes astutely about the destabilizing combination of family expectations, copious wealth, and absence of adult supervision. She’s also sharply perceptive about the class and race complexities of a community that contains rich Asian visitors and American-born Asians, great wealth and straitened circumstances... A spirited slice of cultural life and story of girls facing cruel inequities, and Yang’s compelling author’s note about parachutes and her own experience of being sexually assaulted adds another poignant facet." — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books “Parachutes is a force. As fast-paced as it is powerful, its story of immigration, social class, and rape culture calls out the damaging consequences of privilege in ways that will make readers want to speak up and take action.” — Randy Ribay, National Book Award finalist and author of Patron Saints of Nothing “Parachutes is not just a searing drama that explores the lives of Asians in America, it’s a courageous, empowering story about how high women can soar when they lift each other up.” — Stacey Lee, award-winning author of The Downstairs Girl Awards and Praise for Front Desk: Asian / Pacific American Award for Children’s Literature Parents’ Choice Gold Medal Fiction Award Winner Named a Best Book of the Year by: NPR Kirkus Reviews Publishers Weekly Washington Post Amazon School Library Journal Bookpage New York Public Library Chicago Public Library Top Ten Debut Novels 2018 — ALA Booklist * “Debut author Yang weaves in autobiographical content while creating a feisty and empowered heroine. The supporting characters are rich in voice and context ...achingly reveal life in America in the 1990s for persons of color and those living in poverty.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) * “Mia herself is an irresistible protagonist, and it is a pleasure to see both her writing and her power grow... Many young readers will see themselves in Mia and her friends.... A swiftly moving plot and a winsome protagonist.” — School Library Journal (starred review) * “It’s the details that sing in this novel...This book will help foster empathy for the immigrant experience for young readers, while for immigrant children, it is a much-needed and validating mirror....Deserving of shelf space in every classroom and library.” — Booklist (starred review) “Reminiscent of the television series Fresh Off the Boat... Basing the story on her own childhood experiences, Yang writes Mia’s dreams into reality without sacrificing or minimizing the heartbreaking realities of many immigrants’ hardships... there is much satisfaction in this book’s powerful and heart-wrenching close.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books (starred review) “Front Desk is a story about the hardships of immigrant life, the perpetuation of injustice, and a sweet, kind, indomitable young girl who chooses to rise up and fight no matter how hard it gets. Kelly Yang’s debut is a stunner. — Mike Jung, author of Unidentified Suburban Object “In this noteworthy, immensely enjoyable novel, Kelly Yang (Front Desk) tackles some of the systemic inequalities that foster racism, misogyny and sexual assault. She convincingly brings to light ways in which victims are often judged more harshly than their aggressors, but also provides a template for change. Yang dives with aplomb into issues of opulence and poverty, power and impotence.” — Shelf Awareness

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Book SynopsisJoin best friends Melrose and Croc for a day of sunshine and laughter beside the sea! This glowing picture book from the creator of the Blue Kangaroo series is perfect for sharing with little children who are making friends.Little Green Croc is in a snappy mood, but Melrose knows that a guessing game and a trip to the seaside will soon have his favourite friend smiling again.This charming picture book is full of sunshine, brightly capturing the warmth of true friendship. Wonderfully illustrated by Emma Chichester Clark, it's a perfect addition to the Melrose and Croc series.A summary on pages 26 and 27 of the clues that Melrose gives Croc provides support for children in recapping the story.Gold/Band 9 fiction offers developing readers literary language and stories with distinctive characters.Ideas for reading at the back of the book provide practical support and stimulating activities.

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Book SynopsisWelcome a new friend to the farm with the #1 New York Times bestselling Little Blue Truck!Beep! Beep! Have you heard the news? There is someone new on the farm!All the animals are nervous and excited about meeting a new friend?what will he be like? Does he neigh like a horse or oink like a pig? Does he have fur or feathers? Does he swim? Does he fly? Making new friends can be scary at first but being kind and helping others feel welcome is always the right move.Luckily, Blue knows just the thing to help his friends, old and new, feel at home! Little Blue''s Beep! was loud and clear: We are very glad you''re here!Trade ReviewInstant #1 New York Times Bestseller! "Little Blue is a brave, helpful, and hopeful character young readers will root for. Adults will feel a rush of nostalgia and delight in sharing this story with children as the animated vehicles and animals in innocent, colorful countryside scenes evoke wholesome character traits and values of growth, grit, and self-acceptance.... A terrific choice for the preschool crowd."—Kirkus "A charming tale of an endearing little truck on a mission. Perfect for story times."—School Library Journal — “While the story offers a lovely message on being welcoming and inclusive . . . the rhyming couplets, animal sounds, and truck beeps make this an excellent choice for a read-aloud. . . A welcome addition to the Little Blue Truck canon.” — School Library Journal

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Book SynopsisOlaf gets very excited when he takes his friends on a fun picnic.

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Book SynopsisThe bestselling Cupcake Diaries series is now available in graphic novel format! The first four books are now together in a collectible paperback boxed set!When Katie finds herself without her best friend on the first day of middle school, she realizes she needs to find a way to make new friends. What’s the best way to make friends? With cupcakes, of course! Join Katie as she creates the Cupcake Club from scratch, Mia as she mixes in with a new group of friends, Emma as she struggles to fit too much on her plate, and Alexis as she searches for the perfect recipe for love. Life is sweet with good friends by your side! This yummy paperback boxed set includes: Katie and the Cupcake Cure The Graphic Novel Mia in the Mix The Graphic Novel Emma on Thin Icing The Graphic Novel Alexis and the Perfect Recipe The Graphic Novel

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Book SynopsisPip and Parker are best friends who do everything together. If something goes wrong, Parker (who always looks on the bright side) helps Pip see the silver lining.When the clouds roll in, Pip sees a day spoiled by rain, but Parker sees a chance to play a fun cloud guessing game!Trade Review“[Pip and Parker] are best pals who love doing stuff together . . . Pip gets upset when even small mishaps occur and she doesn’t know what to do. Parker always sees the upsides—the ‘silver linings’—of worrisome situations and dreams up happy solutions. . . . And so it goes until a messy mishap occurs to Parker. Can Pip discover the silver lining this time? The bright side is . . . she can and does—sweetly, ingeniously, and wordlessly. . . . A gentle lesson that being optimistic brings rewards, as does having a very good friend.” — Kirkus Reviews “Play[ing] the afternoon away, Parker finds a way to turn around one disappointing situation after another. . . . When Parker becomes upset over ruined drawings, Pip gets the chance to cheer up her friend for a change. Woodcock’s soft color palette illustrates the friendship with gentleness . . . Encourages readers to find hope when things don’t go to plan, and reminds them that a good friend makes things better, even when they don’t know what to say. . . . A warm story of friendship and a tender addition to SEL shelves.” — School Library Journal “It’s lucky that Pip has such a good friend in Parker, who’s always there to pick her back up when she feels down. . . . But what can Pip do when Parker spills his cup all over their artwork? She, of course, cheers him up . . . Wonderfully detailed and warmly inviting; soft, colored pencil sketching and dappled, hazy watercolors in cheerful hues echo Parker’s skillfulness at comfort and reassurance.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books “Pip and Parker are best friends, though they possess different outlooks on life. Where Pip is easily discouraged, Parker sees the positive in the situation. . . . Later, an accident that leaves even Parker at a loss for the silver lining gives Pip the chance to return the favor, and she finds a way to make her best friend feel better. The sweet story lets both friends shine, and young readers are sure to relate to both attitudes. . . . A soothing study of the joy in buoying friendships and the importance of perspective.” — Booklist “Best friends Pip . . . [and Parker] are so close that ‘sometimes they don’t even need to speak.’ But when words are necessary, Parker has a gift for seeing any situation’s bright side—the silver lining—and bringing the friends together. . . . A book about mutual appreciation and support in which both characters model loving-kindness, confidence, and resilience in their own way.” — Publishers Weekly “Pip is usually spiraling downward from a problem, while Parker helps her find a better way forward with an imaginative solution. . . . In the end, an accidental spill ruins their artwork and threatens to dash Parker’s resilient spirit, but Pip wordlessly and naturally slips into the optimist’s role, comforting her friend and spinning the mishap into a new possibility . . . The easy role exchange of supporter and supported between these two provides a tender example for growing friendships.” — Horn Book Magazine

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Book SynopsisA tender (and humorous!) look at the way tough emotions can make us feel stuck and how the presence of a good friend and a deep belly laugh can make it easier to get through stormy feelings. Complete with back matter to help stuck readers feel better through noticing, smelling, talking, and taking a deep breath, this is a perfect pick for those who loved Grumpy Monkey and The Rabbit Listened.“Stuck?” asks Duck. Yep, Turtle is flipped over on his shell and can’t seem to get un-stuck. Duck suggests wiggling his feet, Kangaroo wants him to wag his tail, and Armadillo says rolling into a ball always does the trick. But Turtle is STILL. STUCK.Is there anyone who can help? This wise and humorous story reminds us that when we’re feeling down, sometimes what we need most is a friend by our side—and a deep belly laugh—to help us get back on our feet again.  A social-emotional learning story about how to navigate frustrating emotions. Features a sweet and funny friendship. Charming artwork depicts adorable, instantly lovable characters. Includes tips for practicing mindfulness. Trade Review"Mills’ bright, cartoonish watercolors are enticing. The help of a good friend resolves a sticky situation in this sweet tale." — Kirkus Reviews "The possum’s comforting companionship will convince even the youngest child that sometimes just being with a friend in trouble can help." — School Library Journal

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Book SynopsisEye-catching new design for an established, successful fiction range.

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Book SynopsisIn this stunning ninth book in the New York Times and USA TODAY 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.

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Book SynopsisPerfect for fans of Jory John and Pete Oswald''s The Bad Seed and Jon Klassen''s I Want My Hat Back!Bob loves his red jacket.The red jacket makes him feel swanky cool.The red jacket makes other seagulls notice him and even speak to him.But when a wave washes it away, will Bob lose his cool and his newfound friends, too?Bob Holt?s spare text and humorous artwork come together perfectly in this charmingly humorous tale about a seagull who learns a lesson or two about style, fitting in, and confidence.Trade Review“The Red Jacket is just my kind of story. Simple with a sweet message that kids and adults can appreciate.” — James Dean, creator of Pete the Cat "The [art] gives the book immediate appeal, and the unexpected details, such as fries in the jacket pockets, are endearing. Fun for reading aloud and fine for discussing." — Booklist (starred review) “[Examines] the bond between self-regard and friendship.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review) “A delightful story of finding self-confidence and friends—and then paying it forward.” — Kirkus Reviews "Sometimes a Red Jacket is just what you need." — Antoinette Portis, Award-winning and bestselling author of Not a Box “Sure to delight young readers. A great choice for readers who are shy, or anyone looking for a humorous, beachside read." — School Library Journal “This light-hearted picture book offers manifold lessons, well-disguised in a silly story about a dapper seagull. [An] excellent selection for back-to-school time, reminding readers to be confident in their unique qualities and to encourage the same in others.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

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Book SynopsisIn this fantastical picture book perfect for fans of Aaron Becker's Journey, a human child and a child from another planet discover that no matter where you live or what your books are like, reading�and sharing�are universal. A cosmic celebration of the joy of sharing books and having new experiences awaits readers in this captivating wordless picture book for ages 3 to 6. A child busy reading in a treehouse spots a family who seems to have just arrived on Earth for a picnic. The youngest member of the alien family holds a mind-bendingly strange object. Could it be a book from outer space? At the end of this gorgeously illustrated tale, each child returns home with a book from far away to remember a kind stranger. Sure to take its place among gently fantastical favorites like Sophie Blackall's If You Come to Earth and Carson Ellis's Du Iz Tak?, this picture book will enchant and delight curious kids and book lovers everywhere.Trade Review“A magical, wordless tribute to the universal power of reading.” — We Are Teachers"Amazing! Bruce and Julie have created a wonderful addition to the wordless book canon. Julie’s beautiful art is rich with detail and visual invention. She shows everyday and otherworldly incidents through flowing, organic compositions that carry the reader on a delightfully strange, compelling, and heartwarming adventure." — David Wiesner, 3-time winner of the Caldecott Medal“This wordless tale speaks volumes…..emphasizes that kids understand kids, no matter their origin, and that books have universal appeal—literally. Readers will love poring over the clearly composed artwork’s luminous, wondrously imaginative, interplanetary details.” — Kirkus Reviews“Intriguing….Benbasset’s distinctive renderings of the outer space family and its belongings exude charm.”— Publishers Weekly"“Alluring….beautifully conceived by Handy and Benbasset, dazzles….” — Nell Beram, Shelf Awareness “Stunning … will inspire and empower storytellers AND storymakers.” — Kitlitbrain"★ Exquisite illustrations .... Lovely". — Imagination Soup"“Wordless masterpiece." — Let's Talk Picture Books“The sweetest tale of connection and love of reading. No matter what form reading comes in—whether it be on paper, online, audio, or even extraterrestrial, we are all connected to great stories. Each page is packed with adventure and curiosity and I promise you’ll love the journey!” — Squarepegsroundworld

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Book SynopsisKeep Smiling is a celebration of the most universal symbol of hope, joy and positivity - a smile! Created by the bestselling team behind Coming to England: the inspirational Dame Floella Benjamin, and award-winning illustrator Diane Ewen.Vina's Mum has always told her that a smile is the best gift you can give someone. And as Vina loves smiling more than anything else, she gives the gift of her smile to anyone who needs it. But on her first visit to her new school, Vina's own smile gets a bit . . . lost. She can't find it under the slide, or on the climbing frame. Then, a smile appears, in the most unexpected place!

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Book SynopsisZara and Adnan are just friends. Always have been, always will be. Even if they have to pretend to be girlfriend and boyfriend... Zara loves love in all forms: 90s romcoms and romance novels and grand sweeping gestures. And she's desperate to have her own great love story. Crucially, a real one. So when her best friend Adnan begs her to pretend to date him to cover up his new top-secret relationship, Zara is hesitant. This isn't the kind of thing she had in mind. But there's something in it for Zara too: making her parents, who love Adnan, happy might just stop them arguing for a while. She may not be getting her own love story, but she could save theirs. So Zara agrees and the act begins: after all, how different can pretending to be in a relationship with your best friend be to just hanging around with them like usual? Turns out, a lot. With fake dating comes fake hand-holding and fake kissing and real feelings... And when Trade ReviewThis delightful romantic comedy takes a thoughtful look at romance tropes and expectations, full of heart and candour. -- Fiona Noble * The Observer *Funny, heartwarming and wholly original, This Is How You Fall In Love is a fast-paced rom-com that takes all the classic tropes and puts its own delightful spin on them. An absolute joy to read! -- Ravena Guron, author of THIS BOOK KILLSFunny and charming, This Is How You Fall In Love is a love story that will have you swooning! -- Adiba Jaigirdar, author of HANI AND ISHU'S GUIDE TO FAKE DATINGA humorous and heartfelt romcom for fans of Holly Bourne * The School Librarian *I would highly recommend this book to those who love a good romcom story mixed with friendship and the life of a teenager. * ReadingZone *

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Book SynopsisFrom the undisputed queen of thrillers comes a boxed set that includes the two bestselling thrillers in young adult fiction, One of Us Is Lying and its sequel, One of Us Is Next. When it comes to YA suspense, Karen M. McManus is in a league of her own. —Entertainment WeeklyPay close attention and you might solve this.One of Us Is LyingFive students walk into detention, and only four walk out. According to investigators, the last student's death wasn't an accident. He was planning to post juicy reveals about all four of his classmates the next day, which makes each of them a suspect. Or are they the perfect patsies for a killer who's still on the loose?One of Us Is NextA ton of copycat gossip apps have popped up since Simon died, but no one's been able to fill the gossip void quite like he could. The problem is that no one has had the facts. Until now. This time it's not an app, though&

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Book Synopsis“A successful marriage of solid information and good fun.”—School Library Journal (starred review)“A natural fit for classroom science units and home use.”—BooklistLibby loves science!Trade Review“Libby loves performing science experiments and exploring the world around her. . . . Included are instructions for a series of accessible science experiments with simple drawings making them approachable for young children. . . . A successful marriage of solid information and good fun, this book expresses a love for the topic that will encourage kids to follow their curiosity and develop their own appreciation for science.” — School Library Journal (starred review) “Joining the ranks of strong girls in STEM [is] Libby . . . Brightly colored artwork bubbles with Libby’s enthusiasm . . . This book is a natural fit for classroom science units and home use.” — Booklist

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Book SynopsisMoving to a new town can be a scary experience, especially when all of your things begin to come alive! In this whimsical, thrilling new series, a lonely boy named Iggie forms an unlikely band of heroes to overcome adversity and discover the importance of true friendship.2023 AMERICAN LIBRARY ASSOCIATION BEST GRAPHIC NOVEL FOR CHILDREN READING LIST HONOREENine-year-old Iggie is the new kid in the town of Peculiar Woods, and nothing about his new home is familiar. So how is he supposed to make friends when he's not allowed to talk to strangers? On his first night in the strange new town, Iggie gets lost in the woods, where he discovers he can speak to inanimate objects. He soon teams up with his blanket, Faye, a talking chair and yoga enthusiast named Boris, and a pair of spirited chess pieces, and sets out on an epic quest to help his new friends solve their problems. Along the way, Iggie and friends encounter the nefarious washing machine, Lazarus Gallington, and begin to uncover the mystery of the flooded town. Throughout his epic quest, Iggie discovers the value of friendship while also discovering what needs to be done to save the entire village—before it's too late! With a rich, enchanting story and artwork reminiscent of The Brave Little Toaster, Adventure Time, Hilda, and other children's classics, Peculiar Woods will enchant young readers with its stories of unlikely heroism, friendship, and adventure.Trade Review“[A] gently eerie graphic novel series opener. [S]oftly rounded illustrations rendered in an autumnal palette depict Iggie’s loneliness and struggle to fit in, and personify the objects’ bizarre personalities, to deliver a cozy adventure.” (Publishers Weekly)“Imaginative worldbuilding and adventure mixed with unique characters and quirky humor.” Kirkus Reviews (Kirkus Reviews)“Cartoonish illustrations just this side of absurd and a balance of witty and meaningful dialogue clearly distinguish the inanimate objects’ characteristics and personalities, while the breezy panels expertly pace the heroes’ quest[.]” (Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books)"This offbeat story utilizes the fantasy genre admirably, teaching young readers about the importance of friendship and showing how fear can often be the fuel for true courage and bravery. Peculiar Woods features excellently paced illustrations and full-color panel work that help elevate the story." (Booklist)

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Book SynopsisDive in to this funny and debut heart-warming magical (and musical!) adventure from star of stage and screen, Matt Lucas a festive modern classic for young readers of 8-12!Nearly as good as one of my books' David WalliamsLeo LOVES Christmas.And this Christmas needs to be absolutely perfect, because it's the first one without Mum. Only it all keeps going wrong!???? The fairylights are in a tangle???? The Christmas cards aren't finished?? The tree isn't decorated?? And the Christmas cakes have all been destroyed!Soon Leo decides he's had enough he makes a heartfelt wish that it would all GO AWAY.Then Leo wakes up on what SHOULD be Christmas Day and it's gone!! All of Christmas! But Leo isn't going to let it escape that easily . . .Join Leo as he sets out on a mission to undo his wish and get Christmas back in the brand-new festive classic by bestselling author Matt Lucas.Home Alone meets A Christmas Carol in a hilarious adventure with a big dollop of festive magic. Funny, sensitive aTrade Review‘Nearly as good as one of my books’ – David Walliams

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Book Synopsis From the critically acclaimed author of Children of the Quicksands - shortlisted for the Waterstones Children's Book Prize - comes a breathtaking magical adventure ... Kuki refuses to believe in the curse of the Abiku. Her destiny is not to die young! Her biggest problem right now is moving house and fitting in at her new school. One evening while exploring, Kuki spies a driveway lined with giant palm trees. It leads to an abandoned beach house of shadows and scattered sea shells. And in the fading light, she meets a girl called Enilo. They become friends – the best of friends. Until Kuki makes a terrifying discovery ... The second novel by Times/Chicken House Competition-winning Efua Traore, author of critically acclaimed Children of the Quicksands A beautifully evoked middle-grade adventure set in the author’s native Nigeria and drawing from rich Yoruba mythology A story about the power of female friendship over fear and superstition PRAISE FOR CHILDREN OF THE QUICKSANDS: 'A joy of a book: rich, warm, powerful storytelling' KATHERINE RUNDELL 'A thrilling adventure bright with the gorgeous colours of Nigeria – glorious!' JASBINDER BILAN '[A] beautifully evoked story' THE TELEGRAPH 'Traore's storytelling feels almost otherworldly ... exhilarating' THE TIMES

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Book SynopsisRom-com lovers and fans of Elise Bryant and Jenna Evans Welch will adore this next summer read from Hot British Boyfriend author Kristy Boyce.No one has ever accused Sage Cunningham of being easily distracted.Trade Review"Hot Dutch Daydream will have you frantically googling flights to Amsterdam. I adored this sweet romance, starring a prickly but lovable protagonist and a hero with big golden retriever energy. Kristy Boyce's writing is breezy and upbeat, full of empathy and humor — I grinned my way through the whole book." — Rachel Lynn Solomon, New York Times Bestselling author of See You Yesterday “With a forbidden romance between a goal-oriented girl and an artistic boy, HOT DUTCH DAYDREAM will alternately tug at your heartstrings and make you laugh while you dream of a trip to Amsterdam. A thoroughly delightful YA romance!" — Michelle I. Mason, author of Your Life Has Been Delayed "Hot Dutch Daydream is the romantic European escape you've been waiting for! Visiting Amsterdam with Ryland and Sage is a dream come true - you'll fall for Boyce's warm, sparkling prose, lush descriptions of Amsterdam, and loveable characters. Add Hot Dutch Daydream to your reading list immediately!" — Stephanie Kate Strohm, author of Love à la Mode and Prince in Disguise "A perfect summer romance." — School Library Journal "The romance develops naturally and believably, with both protagonists learning that the right partner can help them achieve their dreams... Armchair travelers and fans of opposites-attract romances will adore this story." — Kirkus Reviews PRAISE FOR HOT BRITISH BOYFRIEND: “Boyce keeps lighthearted humor and romance at the forefront, delivering a satisfying happy-for-now ending to a feel-good rom-com.” — Publishers Weekly “This book will sweep Anglophiles and romantics off their feet.” — School Library Journal “This lighthearted whirlwind of a debut is part frothy romance, part thoughtful venture of self-exploration. Readers will enjoy rooting for Ellie as she struggles to choose between the fantasy and the reality.” — Booklist

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Book SynopsisMelrose has lost his smile will Little Green Croc help him to find it again? This glowing picture book from the creator of the Blue Kangaroo series is perfect for sharing with little children who are making friends.When Melrose loses his smile, he worries that he won''t be able to find it again. But Little Green Croc takes him to the countryside and sure enough, his smile returns! A heart-warming tale about the power of friendship.A story map on pages 26 and 27 supports children in recapping the main events in the story.Orange/Band 6 books offer varied text and characters, with action sustained over several pages.Ideas for reading at the back of the book provide practical support and stimulating activities.

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Book SynopsisA simple story, about a small creature who does his best to join in with the others. But he''s different. No matter how he tries, he just doesn''t belong. Then Something turns up and wants to be friends. But Something Else isn''t sure he''s like him at all...Kathryn Cave''s poignantly simple story is brought to life by Chris Riddell in this enchantingly original picture book - now reissued with a new cover look.Trade ReviewA gentle, eloquently told story about the meaning of tolerance. * The Guardian *

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Book SynopsisA magical and captivating debut fantasy novel from young French author of fourteen years.Trade Review"Enchanting" Telegraph "A teenage literary sensation" Telegraph "A must for anyone who enjoys fantasy" Write Away Website “A cool-read” cool-reads website

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Book SynopsisMelrose and Croc return in style in this beautiful picture book adventure, all about being the very best of friends. From the creator of the Blue Kangaroo series, these adorable characters will soon be your best friends too!Melrose and Croc are the best of friends. They love all the things about each other that make them who they are.So when Melrose or Croc feels that nothing they do is good enough, they always know how to cheer each other up it's easy: they remind one another of ALL the different things that make them special unique and totally loveable!The universal theme of friendship and understanding is sure to touch every heart, as Melrose and Croc show how to love others and also yourself.Trade ReviewPraise for ‘Melrose and Croc’: 'Full of bright detail, this is a picture book young readers could well dream about as being the next best thing to entering its pages.' The Independent 'Two irresistible new characters from the creator of the popular Blue Kangaroo series.' Winter edition, Primary Times 'A heart-warming tale of how friendships begin… This book is a wonderful tactile experience, from the shimmery glittery cover… to the gentle watercolours inside, which are printed on the creamiest of papers.' The Irish Times 'It delights children but adults will appreciate the period evocation of the festive-season cities and the off-season seaside.' The Sunday Times 'Incredibly touching story.' Primary Times 'Gorgeous Christmassy story about friendship.' Angels and Urchins 'You don't have to get too sentimental to find something special…The light in the illustrations makes this book all the more magical.' Junior 'This author/illustrator goes from strength to strength… Mouth-watering illustrations, ideal text, two mightily engaging characters – altogether the star on top of the tree.' Carousel

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Book SynopsisFancy Nancy is back in this magical new story from Jane O'Connor and Robin Preiss Glasser.Nancy thinks butterflies are simply exquisite. And that is why she can't wait to go to her friend Bree's Butterfly Birthday! It's going to be the fanciest party ever!But when Nancy finds out she can't go because her grandparents' fiftieth anniversary party is the same day, she is furious! How will she overcome this disappointment?In a glorious twist everybody's favourite fancy girl gets a sparkling lesson in fancy from her own grandparents. Maybe being fancy runs in the family after all!

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Book SynopsisOne of the launch titles in the amazing new Essential Picture Book Classics list from HarperCollins, this book contains five engaging, warm and very funny stories about Frog and Toad.A collectable classic picture book that every child should read and own. Julia Donaldson says I hugely admire and envy Arnold Lobel; he is my hero.Once upon a time there were two good friends, a frog and a toadFrom writing letters to going swimming, telling stories to finding lost buttons, Frog and Toad are always there for each other just as best friends should be.The Frog and Toad stories from Arnold Lobel have been loved by generations.Essential Picture Book Classics timeless stories for every child to treasure.

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Book SynopsisBuild your child's reading confidence at home with books at the right levelFollow the life of Pip, a poor lonely orphan in Victorian England. Everything changes when he becomes friends with the wealthy Estella. But can Pip leave his past behind? Written to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Charles Dickens' birth, this inspired retelling is written by Whitbread award-winning author Hilary McKay.Emerald/Band 15 books provide a widening range of genres including science fiction and biography, prompting more ways to respond to texts.Text type: A retelling of a story by a significant authorCurriculum links: History; CitizenshipThis book has been quizzed for Accelerated Reader.

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Book SynopsisRat has a magic wishing hat and let's his friends have a wish, but it all goes terribly wrong when they all want a second wish. This fun, decodable story is beautifully written and illustrated by Laura Hambleton.Red B/Band 2B books offer simple but varied text with familiar objects and actions, combined with simple story development and a satisfying conclusion.Text type: A story with a predictable structure and patterned language.Pages 1415 provide an opportunity for children to recap the story.Curriculum links: PSHE.This book has been quizzed for Accelerated Reader.

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Book SynopsisA boy makes a paper plane and accidentally throws it over the wall. Little does he know that another boy called Joe lives on the other side of that wall and wants to play, too. This beautiful narrative non-fiction book about friendship is written and illustrated by award-winning illustrator Russell Ayto.A boy makes a paper plane and accidentally throws it over the wall. Little does he know that another boy called Joe lives on the other side of that wall and wants to play, too. This beautiful narrative non-fiction book about friendship is written and illustrated by award-winning illustrator Russell Ayto.Lilac/Band 0 books are wordless books that tell a story through pictures and are designed to develop understanding about how stories work.Children can follow and recap the story sequence about how the boys became friends using the story map on pages 1415.Text type: A wordless storyCurriculum links: Personal, social and emotional development

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Book SynopsisAn extraordinary collaboration between Irish Children's Laureate, Eoin Colfer, and picture book superstar, Oliver Jeffers!Sometimes, with a little electricity, or luck, or even magic, an imaginary friend might appear when you need one. An imaginary friend like FredFred floated like a feather in the wind until a lonely little boy wished for him and found a friendship like no other.The perfect chemistry between Eoin Colfer's text and Oliver Jeffer's artwork make for a dazzlingly original colour gift book.Trade Review“The first collaboration from two children’s books superstars (it also marks Colfer’s picture book début) is a quirky and comical delight, bursting with warmth and wit.” Bookseller ”Jeffers’s spidery vignettes are perfectly synced to Colfer’s bubbly, confiding narrative.” Publishers Weekly [USA]

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Book SynopsisCollins Arabic Big Cat is a guided reading series for ages 3 to 11. The series is structured with reference to the learning progression of Arabic at nursery and primary schools researched especially for Collins. This carefully graded approach allows children to build up their reading knowledge of Arabic step by step.Level 10 books include characters that express emotions and stories with more events. Non-fiction titles introduce terms that might be new to many children. Level 10 books continue to use single spacing and more high-frequency words appear without vowel markings to help the students get used to the traditional norms of printed Arabic.Salih helps keep his uncle's fishing nets clean. One day he gets help from a rather surprising friend! In return for help cleaning the nets Salih shows his new friend around Dubai.

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Book SynopsisBuild your child's reading confidence at home with fully decodable phonics books matched to Letters and Sounds.Hip and Hop are putting on duck socks. But socks with no dots make Hop sad. What will make him happy again? This fiction story is written and beautifully illustrated by An Vrombaut.Hip and Hop are putting on duck socks. But socks with no dots make Hop sad. What will make him happy again? This fiction story is written and beautifully illustrated by An Vrombaut.Pink B/Band 1B offers emergent readers simple, predictable text with familiar objects and actions.The focus sounds in this book are: /g/ /o/ /e/ /u/ /r/ /h/ckPages 14 and 15 allow children to re-visit the content of the book, supporting comprehension skills, vocabulary development and recall.Reading notes within the book provide practical support for reading Big Cat Phonics for Letters and Sounds with children, including a list of all the sounds and words that the book will cover.

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Book SynopsisMeet RORY BRANAGAN he eats bad guys for breakfast. Well, not ACTUALLY. But he IS the best detective in town. Second in a hilarious illustrated comedy-crime book series for kids.Hello. I am Rory Branagan. I am ACTUALLY a detective.One day, I will be the biggest detective in the world! And I will find out what happened to my DadBut today, a CRIME has been committed on my OWN road. Someone is stealing dogs!What if they try to take Wilkins Welkin my best friend who is also a sausage dog?I need to find these stinking baddies and I need to stop them!And THAT, friends, is what Rory does, with the help of his Accomplice, Cassidy, in a BOOMTASTIC adventure involving dogs, cats, a wheelie bin chariot, a brave and daring rescue and Mrs Welkin, who fights crime in quite a surprising way. (Just you wait! Just you wait!) There are seven books in the RORY BRANAGAN (DETECTIVE) series and this is the second. Perfect for readers aged 8 and up.Trade Review Praise for Rory Branagan (Detective) ‘I read it COVER to COVER immediately. I absolutely loved it and it put a smile the size of the Grand Canyon on my face. It is so delightful … Ralph's quizzical, characterful and charming illustrations are the perfect foil to that Clover storytelling magic, full of humour, genuinely thrilling and moving to boot.' Piers Torday, author of The Last Wild trilogy ‘The Rory Branagan books are fun, fast, and child friendly. The perfect link between picture books and full length novels. If your children like books like The Diary of a Wimpy kid, they'll love these.' Adam Baron, author of Boy Underwater ‘I adore Rory Branagan, Detective … perfect for children who love graphic novels, laughter, and actual mysteries. Illustrations (by Ralph Lazar) are hilarious, full of motion, and propel you from page to page because they're irresistible. Gobble up one of these books in an hour or pace yourself to make them last. Five out of five stars!’ Alison McGhee, New York Times bestselling author ‘Words and illustrations are both very funny and surprisingly touching … A great new series for young readers.’ LoveReading4Kids ‘A totally addictive page-turning storyline … Incredibly clever.’ The Bookbag ‘A pure page turner … So good I bought it at lunch and had it finished before I went to bed. Every page is packed with comedy adventure and beautiful illustrations.' Joseph, aged 11 'I loved the book, it was great. It took me one day to read because I couldn't put it down.' G, aged 9 'A very good book. It's very inspirational and shows you to keep trying and don't let anyone put you down. You can be whatever you want to be so follow your dreams. Even if you're small, you can do big things!' Reader, aged 9

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Book SynopsisLittle Green Croc is excited to go into town but it's very busy out there and Melrose is keen to remind him they should stick together! This glowing picture book from the creator of the Blue Kangaroo series is perfect for sharing with little children who are making friends.Melrose and Croc are thrilled to be taking an exciting trip to town. Little Green Croc just can't wait to rush off into the bright lights and bustle of the city, but the slightly more worldly-wise Melrose advises caution the crowds are big and Croc is a very small crocodile, and if they are not careful, he might end upLOST! Thankfully the friends are reunited for a happy ending.A story map on pages 26 and 27 supports children in recapping the main events in the story.Orange/Band 6 books offer varied text and characters, with action sustained over several pages.Ideas for reading at the back of the book provide practical support and stimulating activities.

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Book SynopsisMelrose and Croc discuss all the reasons they are all the very best of friends. From the creator of the Blue Kangaroo series, these adorable characters will soon be your best friends too!Melrose and Croc are the best of friends. They love all the things about each other that make them who they are.So when Melrose or Croc feels that nothing they do is good enough, they always know how to cheer each other up it's easy: they remind one another of ALL the different things that make them special unique and totally loveable!The universal theme of friendship and understanding is sure to touch every heart, as Melrose and Croc show how to love others and also yourself.A summary of the attributes that each character likes about the other on pages 26 and 27 supports children in recapping the main events in the story.Orange/Band 6 books offer varied text and characters, with action sustained over several pages.Ideas for reading at the back of the book provide practical support and stimulating ac

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Book SynopsisOnce upon a time there were two good friends, a frog and a toadEach time Toad saw how messy his home was he said,I will do it tomorrow. Today I will take life easy.What happened when tomorrow arrived?The much-loved Frog and Toad stories were written and illustrated Arnold Lobel and have been loved by generations.Children can recap the story on pages 1415 by exploring the difference between tidying the house tomorrow' and doing it today', providing lots of speaking and listening opportunities.Green/Band 5 books offer early readers patterned language and varied characters.Ideas for Reading provide practical support and stimulating activities.

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Book SynopsisOnce upon a time there were two good friends, a frog and a toadFrog and Toad went out to fly a kite, but getting it to fly was harder than they thought!The much-loved Frog and Toad stories were written and illustrated Arnold Lobel and have been loved by generations.Children can recap the story on pages 1415 by exploring each attempt the characters made at getting the kite to fly, providing lots of speaking and listening opportunities.Green/Band 5 books offer early readers patterned language and varied characters.Ideas for Reading provide practical support and stimulating activities.

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Book SynopsisBuild your child's reading confidence at home with books at the right levelCollins Big Cat supports every primary child on their reading journey from phonics to fluency. Top authors and illustrators have created fiction and non-fiction books that children love to read. Book banded for guided and independent reading, there are reading notes in the back, comprehensive teaching and assessment support and ebooks available.Rajni and Sheela live in opposite flats, high up in the clouds in an apartment block in Mumbai. They wave to each other every day from their windows and believe they could be best friends but they've never met! Will they ever get to know each other properly? This lovely story of friendship was written by Narinder Dhami.Lime Plus/Band 11+ books provide challenging plots and vocabulary as well as opportunities to practise inference, prediction and reading stamina.Pages 46 and 47 allow children to re-visit the content of the book, supporting comprehension skills, vocabulary

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Book SynopsisCollins Big Cat Phonics for Letters and Sounds features exciting fiction and non-fiction decodable readers to enthuse and inspire children. They are fully aligned to Letters and Sounds Phases 16 and contain notes in the back. The Handbooks provide support in demonstration and modelling, monitoring comprehension and expanding vocabulary.Nell and Tess are best friends and like the same things. But what happens when they don't match?Pink B/Band 1B offers emergent readers simple, predictable text with familiar objects and actions.The focus sounds in this book are: /l/ ll, ssPages 14 and 15 contain a fun I Spy Letters and Sounds activity, which uses visual support to help children embed phonic knowledge.Reading notes within the book provide practical support for reading Big Cat Phonics for Letters and Sounds with children, including a list of all the sounds and words that the book will cover.

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Book SynopsisCollins Big Cat supports every primary child on their reading journey from phonics to fluency. Top authors and illustrators have created fiction and non-fiction books that children love to read. Book banded for guided and independent reading, there are reading notes in the back, comprehensive teaching and assessment support and ebooks available.Nobody at Puggle School would ever believe Katy's phobia. Some of her friends are scared of spiders. Some of them are scared of snakes. But no-one is scared of a kitten! Katy can't even think about a kitten without breaking out in goose bumps. It would be OK if only her best friend hadn't invited Katy to come and play after school and meet Fluffy! How can Katy get over her fear? Will everyone think she's totally weird if she tells them? Perhaps she'd be surprised by the fears they have if she ever did This story about overcoming fears is written by Ali Sparkes.White Plus/Band 10+ books provide challenging plots and vocabulary as well as opportu

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Book SynopsisInspire a love of reading with stories that are written from a child's perspective and will encourage children to discover the world around them.With audio and activities, Peapod Readers are the perfect start to a child's journey into learning English.Mack is too small to go to school with Ivy.What can he do instead?Includes:Before and after reading activitiesPicture dictionaryExam practice for Cambridge Pre A1 StartersReading guide online

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Book SynopsisCollins Big Cat supports every primary child on their reading journey from phonics to fluency. Top authors and illustrators have created fiction and non-fiction books that children love to read. Book banded for guided and independent reading, there are reading notes in the back, comprehensive teaching and assessment support and ebooks available.Moving house and school means Megan has to make new friends. She thinks that having a dog will help her to do that, but rather than the cute puppy she''d hoped for, she gets a smelly old dog called Rosie. Megan feels embarrassed when she walks Rosie in the park and notices her new classmates giggling and whispering comments. But are they really laughing at her? Perhaps she misunderstood This sweet story about friendship is written by Pippa Goodhart.White Plus/Band 10+ books provide challenging plots and vocabulary as well as opportunities to practise inference, prediction and reading stamina.Pages 46 and 47 allow children to re-visit the conten

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Book SynopsisCollins Big Cat Phonics for Letters and Sounds features exciting fiction and non-fiction decodable readers to enthuse and inspire children. They are fully aligned to Letters and Sounds Phases 16 and contain notes in the back. The Handbooks provide support in demonstration and modelling, monitoring comprehension and expanding vocabulary.The Monster Carnival is a busy place. Dot wants to join in with the other monsters' games, but when Macy and Lucian ask her to play, she always says no as she is too shy and anxious. Until one day, Macy and Lucian have a problem that only Dot can help with Turquoise/Band 7 offers literary language and extended descriptions, with longer sentences and a wide range of unfamiliar terms.The focus sounds in this book are: /n/ kn /m/ mb /r/ wr /s/ c, ce /sh/ s, ci, ti /zh/ sPages 22 and 23 allow children to re-visit the content of the book, supporting comprehension skills, vocabulary development and recall.Reading notes within the book provide practical support

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Book SynopsisBig Cat Phonics for Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised has been developed in collaboration with Wandle Learning Trust and Little Sutton Primary School. It comprises classroom resources to support the SSP programme and a range of phonic readers that together provide a consistent and highly effective approach to teaching phonics.

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