Children’s / Teenage fiction: Historical fiction

Book SynopsisWhatever you do, don't look down... 'I loved it' TOM PALMER 'Henderson reaches new heights with her fabulously gripping historical adventure—absolutely riveting!' SUSAN BROWNRIGG 'Packed with fascinating historical detail, real-life peril and exciting adventure—a riveting read!' LINDSAY LITTLESON When 12-year-old John Nicol gets a job at the Forth Bridge construction site, he knows it’s dangerous. Four boys have already fallen from the bridge into the Forth below. But John has no choice—with his father gone, he must provide an income for his family—even if he is terrified of heights. John finds comfort in the new Carnegie library, his friend Cora and his squirrel companion, Rusty. But when he is sent to work in Cain Murdoch’s Rivet Gang, John must find the courage to climb, to face his fears, and to stand up to his evil boss. Based on real people and events, Rivet Boy blends fact and fiction to tell the story of one boy’s role in the building of the iconic Forth Bridge—Scotland’s greatest man-made wonder—in 1889.Trade Review'I loved it' TOM PALMER 'Henderson reaches new heights with her fabulously gripping historical adventure—absolutely riveting!' SUSAN BROWNRIGG 'Packed with fascinating historical detail, real-life peril and exciting adventure—a riveting read!' LINDSAY LITTLESON

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewPRAISE FOR TRULY DEVIOUS “Be still, my Agatha-Christie-loving beating heart.” — Bustle “Jumping between past and present, Johnson’s novel is deliciously atmospheric, with a sprawling cast of complex suspects/potential victims, surprising twists, and a dash of romance. As in her Shades of London books, Johnson remains a master at combining jittery tension with sharp, laugh-out-loud observations.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review) “Remember the first time reading Harry Potter and knowing it was something special? There’s that same sense of magic in the introduction of teen Sherlock-in-training Stevie Bell. Parallel mysteries unfold with cleverly written dialogue, page-turning brilliance and a young sleuth just as captivating as Hercule Poirot.” — USA Today (four stars) “A suspenseful, attention-grabbing mystery with no clear solution. The versatile Johnson is no stranger to suspense, and this twisty thriller will leave plenty of readers anxious for more.” — Booklist “The Agatha Christie-like ecosystem pairs with lacerating contemporary wit, and alternating past and present scenes makes for a multilayered, modern detective story.” — New York Times Book Review Praise for THE VANISHING STAIR “In this second . . . installment, Johnson gives and she takes away: a few major mysteries are satisfying solved, but other long-standing riddles remain tantalizingly indecipherable, and several new ones come into play by the enigmatic end. Readers, hang tight: there’s one more round to come, and if the signs are right, it’ll be to die for.” — Booklist "Ramps up the intrigue. Throughout this volume, Johnson's compelling would-be Sherlock proves to be as bad at personal relationships as she is adept at solving mysteries. Teen angst soars as Johnson delightfully conjures up more nefarious deeds from the mountain mist." — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “Take it from the world’s most impatient reader: If the Truly Devious series is basically one long mystery book, The Vanishing Stair is a middle part so enjoyable you won’t even want to skip to the end.” — Entertainment Weekly “In this second installment of her marvelous Truly Devious series, Maureen Johnson offers thrilling suspense, sly wit, a memorable cast of characters and more pieces of her deliciously intricate puzzle.” — Buffalo News “Waiting for the next installment of Maureen Johnson’s Agatha Christie-Sherlock Holmes-classic mystery homage series was torture, but The Vanishing Stair is oh so worth it.” — Bustle Praise for THE HAND ON THE WALL "The final, riveting chapter of the Truly Devious murder series. Throughout this intricately woven, fast-paced whodunit, Johnson demonstrates how proximity to wealth and power can mold and bend one's behavior, whether with good or—here largely—devious intent. A richly satisfying, Poirot-like ending for Johnson's inspired and inspiring teen sleuth." — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) "In this hotly anticipated trilogy finale, Johnson pulls out all the stops, filling the thrillingly nimble narrative with classic mystery conventions. A striking foray into an examination of what mysteries can ever truly be solved, and a satisfying send-off for a series that will be missed." — Booklist "This will be essential reading for the many fans of the first two books. This trilogy ender is fun, satisfying, and a genuine treat for teens and adult mystery fans." — School Library Journal “Maureen Johnson brings her delectable ‘Truly Devious’ murder mystery trilogy to a thrilling conclusion, neatly tying together her dueling narrative threads with an action-packed finale.” — Buffalo News “The perfect mix of intimate character moments, intriguing epiphanies, and dangerous situations make it an overwhelmingly satisfying conclusion.” — Hypable

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Book SynopsisAmsterdam, 1943 Hanneke spends her days procuring and delivering sought-after black-market goods to paying customers, her nights hiding the true nature of her work from her concerned parents, and every waking moment mourning her boyfriend, who was killed on the front line when the Germans invaded. She likes to think of her illegal work as a small act of rebellion. But one day Hanneke gets a very unusual request. One of her regular customers asks her to find a girl. A girl who has disappeared from the secret room in her house. A Jewish girl . . .As she searches for clues Hanneke is drawn into a dangerous web of lies, secrets and mysteries. Can she find the runaway before the Nazis do?Meticulously researched, intricately plotted and beautifully written, The Girl in the Blue Coat is the extraordinarily gripping novel from Monica Hesse.'A gripping historical mystery' Publishers Weekly, starred reviewTrade ReviewThemes of guilt and betrayal, ingenuity and courage, and the divisive effect of the occupation on friendship and community weave through a gripping historical mystery * Publishers Weekly, starred review *The strength of this novel is the author's ability to make the experiences of a seventy-year distant past seem immediate and vivid. * The School Librarian *

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Book SynopsisMegan Rix is the hugely popular author of animal adventure books set in the modern day and key periods of history. An animal lover and dog-trainer, Megan draws inspiration from her own adorable dogs Traffy, Bella, Freya and Ellie, and many fascinating and extraordinary animal stories to engage her readers.

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Book SynopsisNominated for the Carnegie Medal for Writing Shortlisted for the Nero Book Award A darkly seductive sapphic Gothic romance inspired by classic fairytales like Beauty and the Beast. ‘Kat Dunn has spun a love story both intimate and epic’ SAMANTHA SHANNON, author of The Priory of the Orange Tree 'A deliciously dark fairy tale full of the agony and ecstasy of longing and desire' KATHERINE WEBBER, author of Twin Crowns Blumwald is a town overshadowed by an ancient curse: in a sinister castle in the depths of the wild wood lives a monstrous Witch. Once a generation, she comes to claim a companion to return with her – never to be seen again. Now that time is drawing near once more... Mina, daughter of the duke, is grieving and lonely. She has lost all hope of any future for herself in Blumwald. So when the Witch demands her next companion, Mina offers herself up – though she has no idea what fate awaits her. Stranded with her darkly alluring captor, the mystery of what happened to the previous companions draws Mina into the heart of a terrifying secret that could save her life, or end it.Trade Review"Deliciously gothic... Dunn plays on fairytale conventions to create a lush, atmospheric story of curses, belonging and betrayal with a slow-burn love story at its heart" * Observer *"Kat Dunn has spun a love story both intimate and epic. Bitterthorn is a perfect fireside tale, thick with suspense, yearning, and wild beauty – I loved every moment of reading it" -- Samantha Shannon"A stunning meditation on loneliness, with nods to Jane Eyre, Angelina Jolie’s Maleficent and Naomi Novik’s Uprooted" * Good Housekeeping *"This dazzling YA gem melds a thrilling high-stakes fairy tale scenario with suspenseful, slow-burn Sapphic romance" * LoveReading4Kids *"A haunting, atmospheric tale of two lost souls finding each other, and a love that will remake the world. Exquisite" -- Shelley Parker-Chan * Sunday Times bestselling author of She Who Became the Sun *"Bitterthorn is beautiful and haunting – the type of story that seeps into your bones and stays with you long after reading. Kat Dunn has spun a deliciously dark fairy tale full of the agony and ecstasy of longing and desire, as well as celebrating the power of resilience and inner strength" -- Katherine Webber * Sunday Times bestselling author of Twin Crowns and The Revelry *"A moody and stylish Gothic tale that feels both fresh and timeless – a masterful meditation on grief, loneliness, and terrible love. Gutting and unforgettable" -- Ava Reid * Sunday Times bestselling author of The Wolf and the Woodsman *"Both classic and novel, melancholy and tenderly wrought, Bitterthorn crackles with passion and warmth like a fire on a long winter night. With achingly atmospheric prose, Dunn has crafted characters I would die for and a love story as powerful and enduring as a fairytale. A must-read for fans of Gothic romance" -- Allison Saft * New York Times bestselling author of A Far Wilder Magic *"Girl meets house. Girl meets witch. And oh, does it ever get deliciously interesting from there! Dunn has created a delicately spun cobweb of a fairytale that slowly unwinds a pattern of secrets, curses, love and betrayal – and finally settles around your heart and leaves you glad to have been captured" -- Freya Marske * Sunday Times bestselling author of A Marvellous Light *"Bitterthorn tugged on the threads of my heartstrings until I had nothing left to give it but my soul. Hauntingly beautiful, this Gothic fairytale lingers in the darkest corners of my mind forever more. A triumph" -- Saara El-Arifi * Sunday Times bestselling author of The Final Strife *

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Book SynopsisUnlock the secrets of the unsinkable ship… Bertha Watt, tree-climber and would-be polar explorer, is excited to be on RMS Titanic’s maiden voyage, as she leaves Aberdeen behind for the glamour of a new life in America. But Bertha quickly realises that some passengers are behaving strangely, and she determines to unravel their secrets. With new friend, Madge, Bertha sets up her own detective agency to try and solve the mysteries onboard, but they have no idea that disaster is looming for Titanic. Can they help Johan find the hidden treasure and unmask the identity of the enigmatic Mr Hoffman before time runs out on the ‘unsinkable’ ship?

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Book SynopsisWinner of the Jhalak Children''s & YA PrizeWinner of the Indie Book Awards for Children''s FictionWinner of the Week Junior Book Award for Older FictionShortlisted for the Carnegie Medal for Writing ''Safiyyah''s War has the soul of a classic & the urgency of a story for our times. A tale of tolerance, unthinkable bravery, and heart-in-mouth true events. I loved this book'' - Kiran Millwood Hargrave''All at once, Safiyyah''s War broke my heart and filled me with immense hope. With its unforgettable characters and exquisite storytelling, this really is an extraordinary book'' - A F Steadman''Safiyyah is a protagonist I was rooting for all throughout; a lovely, kind-hearted girl whose story filled me in turns with despair and joy. This book shines through with kindness and empathy at its very heart'' - Nizrana Farook''Luminous prose . . . a riveting read for children and adults alike'' - New York TimesWar comes to the streets of Paris and Safiyyah's life changes for ever. Her best friend's family have fled, and the bombing makes her afraid to leave the mosque where she lives. But when her father is arrested by the Nazis for his secret Resistance work, it falls to Safiyyah to run the dangerous errands around the city. It's not long before hundreds of persecuted Jews seek sanctuary at the mosque. Can Safiyyah find the courage to enter the treacherous catacombs under Paris and lead the Jews to safety?Trade Review"Written with rich detail about Paris and Islam, [Safiyyah's War] is a vivid tale of people finding courage, connection and empathy for each other" * The Sunday Times *"A heartfelt and tragically timely paean to religious tolerance" * TLS, Best Children's Books of 2023 *"This story of heroism, shared humanity and hope cherished against long odds is so beautifully written it will be hard for any reader of 9+ to forget" * Guardian *"Perfect reading for fans of Katherine Rundell and Emma Carroll, Safiyyah's War is a riveting, deeply poignant period novel" -- Waterstones, July's Best Children's Books 2023"A lyrical, spiritual book" * Jewish Chronicle *"Safiyyah's War has the soul of a classic and the urgency of a story for our times. A tale of tolerance, unthinkable bravery, and heart-in-mouth true events. I loved this book." -- Kiran Millwood Hargrave"All at once, Safiyyah's War broke my heart and filled me with immense hope. With its unforgettable characters and exquisite storytelling, this really is an extraordinary book" -- A F Steadman"Safiyyah is a protagonist I was rooting for all throughout; a lovely, kind-hearted girl whose story filled me in turns with despair and joy. This book shines through with kindness and empathy at its very heart" -- Nizrana Farook"This story of extraordinary bravery, based on little-known events, is both inspiring and uplifting" * The Bookseller, Editor's Choice *"Beautifully written, full of compassion and hope, Safiyyah's War is an important and much needed WWII story that puts a spotlight on a rarely heard part of history. Safiyyah's story is a must-read in schools exploring WWII, to encourage empathy. The story is superbly told, with adorable characters. A special, heartfelt book that I'm glad exists" -- A M Dassu"Beautiful, vivid writing . . . A moving story of resistance and unity, the power of community and faith. I absolutely loved it" -- Radiya Hafiza

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Book SynopsisThis semi-autobiographical classic, written by the beloved Judith Kerr, tells the story of a Jewish family escaping Germany in the days before the Second World WarSuppose your country began to change. Suppose that without your noticing, it became dangerous for some people to live in it any longer, and you found, to your surprise, that your own father was one of those people. This is what happened to Anna in 1933.Anna is too busy with her schoolwork and tobogganing to listen to the talk of Hitler. But one day she and her brother Max are rushed out of Germany in alarming secrecy, away from everything they know. Their father is wanted by the Nazis. This is the start of a huge adventure, sometimes frightening, very often funny and always exciting.Judith Kerr wrote When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit fifty years ago, based on her own journey, so that her own children would know where she came from and the lengths to which her parents went to keep her and her brother safe. It has gone on to become a beloved classic that is required reading for many children all over the world and is an unforgettable introduction to the real-life impact of the Second World War.

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Book SynopsisAN INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER!A steamy game of cat and mouse between witch and witch-hunter, played out against a backdrop of opulence, secrets, and bloody history. I couldn''t look away. - Kendare Blake, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Champion of FateEnemies-to-lovers doesn''t get more high stakes than a witch and a witch hunter falling in love in bestselling author Kristen Ciccarelli''s latest romantic fantasy.On the night Rune's life changed forever, blood ran in the streets. Now, in the aftermath of a devastating revolution, witches have been diminished from powerful rulers to outcasts ruthlessly hunted due to their waning magic, and Rune must hide what she is.Spending her days pretending to be nothing more than a vapid young socialite, Rune spends her nights as the Crimson Moth, a witch vigilante who rescues her kind from being purged. When a rescue goes wrong, she decides to throw the wit

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Book SynopsisSAMMY is a football crazy rescue puppy.MOUSER is a fearless grey tabby.Together they make an unlikely pair that won''t be parted, not even by the First World War.As the war rages in Europe, Londoners are sending brave animals to help the soldiers - and Mouser and Sammy are soon on their way to the trenches. Boldly criss-crossing no-man''s land they make new friends of every nationality - and reunite with old ones. But on the muddy front line, under fire and constantly in danger, will their friendship be enough to save them so they can return home together?''If you love Michael Morpurgo, you will enjoy this'' Express ''A moving tale told with warmth, kindliness and lashings of good sense that lovers of Dick King-Smith will especially appreciate'' The Times''Every now and then a writer comes along with a unique way of storytelling . . . Meet Megan Rix . . . her novels are deeplyTrade ReviewIf you love Michael Morpurgo, you will enjoy this * Express *A moving tale told with warmth, kindliness and lashings of good sense that lovers of Dick King-Smith will especially appreciate * The Times *Every now and then a writer comes along with a unique way of storytelling . . . Meet Megan Rix . . . her novels are deeply moving and will strike a chord with animal lovers * LoveReading *

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Book SynopsisFrom Alan Gratz, the highly acclaimed, New York Times bestsellingauthor of the blockbuster Refugee, comes a thrilling new multi-perspectivenovel, this time centered around D-Day.

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Book SynopsisThis ELT Graded Reader is made for people learning English as an additional language. The short, simple text is also perfect for anyone looking for an easier read. It is an adapted version of the original story.In this story, Bruno''s father gets a new job, and the family have to move from Berlin, Germany, to a new place. There is a strange camp at the end of the garden. Bruno is very unhappy and bored until he meets Shmuel. The two boys become very good friends. But why is Shmuel in the camp? And why is he wearing striped pyjamas?Our Penguin Readers books include: Simple text (CEFR-levelled) Pictures to help you understand the story Fun exercises to help you learn and practise English With the print book, you can get even more help online: Read the book online Listen to the book being read out loud Get lesson plans for teachers Find answers to check your understanding Note: online resources not available with the eBook.

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Book SynopsisAge range 7+ Mo has won a very special prize, an Ancient Egypt sleepover in a museum. But he has no clue how dangerous it will be. With a mystery to solve, codes to crack and priceless treasure to save, one thing is sure: Mo will not be getting any sleep tonight!

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Book Synopsis''I have two weeks. You''ll shoot me at the end no matter what I do.''Shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal, Code Name Verity is a bestselling tale of friendship and courage set against the backdrop of World War Two.Only in wartime could a stalwart lass from Manchester rub shoulders with a Scottish aristocrat, one a pilot, the other a special operations executive. When a vital mission goes wrong, and one of the friends has to bail out of a faulty plane over France, she is captured by the Gestapo and becomes a prisoner of war. The story begins in Verity's' own words, as she writes her account for her captors.Truth or lies? Honour or betrayal? Everything they've ever believed in is put to the test Elizabeth Wein is a leading voice in young adult historical fiction. Her novelRose Under Firewasnominated for the Carnegie Medal and shortlisted for the Costa Award 2014.Fans ofThe Book Thiefand Carmen Reid''sCross My Heartwill love this.Look out for Elizabeth''s other booksBlack Dove, White SwanaTrade Review‘It's a compelling, uncompromising read which makes few concessions to the age group it's written for – either in subject matter or narrative technique. The bits about flight and women in the war are well researched and the terrifying, but exciting, atmosphere is good.’', The Independant '‘This is a remarkable book, which had me horrified and totally gripped at the same time, and although it is billed as a Young Adult title, don’t be put off – it is a very grown-up story.’', The Daily Mail '‘. . . a rare young adult novel entirely about female power and female friendship. . .’', New York Times '‘[It] does more than stick with me. It haunts me. I just can’t recommend it enough.’', Maggie Stiefvater, bestselling author of Shiver '‘This is a rich and rewarding adventure story with multi-layered heroines and complicated emotions. All 450 pages really do fly by. Expect to see Wein’s name in the running for the Older Readers Category of the Scottish Children’s Book Awards next year.'', The Scotsman '‘If you want an original read that will challenge your perceptions about truth, lies, bravery and deception, this is one for you.’', Sugarscape '‘. . . passionate writing with an utterly compelling story.’', Manda Scot, Chair of the Historical Writers’ Association '‘. . . full of convincing detail, heart-stopping emotion and tension.’', The Bookseller '‘It has been a while since I was so captivated by a character . . . Code Name Verity is one of those rare things: an exciting – and affecting – female adventure story.’', The Guardian '‘[a] tale of espionage, torture and female derring-do.’', The Times

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Book SynopsisA SPECIAL 20TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION OF THIS AWARD-WINNING TALE ABOUT THE POWER OF PERSEVERANCE BY THE BESTSELLING AUTHOR OFA LONG WALK TO WATERTrade Review‘Delightful... I read the novel with enormous pleasure and admiration.’ -- Philip Pullman‘The novel has the deceptive simplicity of a folk-tale… Reflective readers who surrender to the quiet rhythms of the prose and the plot will surely find pleasure both in the crafting of the pots and in the receptive awareness of Tree-ear.’ * Books for Keeps, ***** *‘Park moulds a moving tribute to perseverance and creativity in this finely etched novel set in mid-to-late 12th century Korea. . . Readers will not soon forget these characters or their sacrifices.’ -- Publishers Weekly, starred review‘Tree-ear’s story conveys a time and place far away and long ago, but with a simplicity and immediacy that is both graceful and unpretentious. A timeless jewel.’ -- Kirkus‘This book not only gives readers insight an unfamiliar time and place, but it is also a great story.’ -- School Library Journal, starred review‘Readers will feel the hunger and cold that Tree-ear experiences, as well as his shame, fear, gratitude, and love. A well-crafted novel with an unusual setting.’ -- Booklist, starred review‘Park's story is alive with fascinating information about life and art in ancient Korea.’ -- Horn Book Guide‘This finely crafted novel brings 12th-century Korea and these indelible characters to life.’ -- SLJ Best Books of the Year‘A great read about skills, workmanship, friendship, hardship, different cultures, bravery and perseverance.’ -- Independent Book Reviews

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Book SynopsisLondon, 1922. A discovery from ancient Egypt . . .A cursed package . . .The untold story of a young pharaoh . . .When Lilian Kaye finds a parcel on her grandad''s doorstep, she is shocked to see who sent it: a famous Egyptologist, found dead that very morning, according to every newspaper in England!The mysterious package holds the key to a story . . . about a king whose tomb archaeologists are desperately hunting for.Lil and her friends must embark on an incredible journey to return the package to its resting place, to protect those they love, and to break the deadly pharaoh''s curse . . .The Hilary Mantel of children's fiction.' Telegraph

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Book SynopsisIn this heart-stopping adventure based on real historical events,Benjamin Zephaniah shows us an important and intriguing timein Britain that's sure to fascinate young readers.

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Book Synopsis6 December 1941: Best friends Frank and Stanley live in paradise. Their dads are Navy officers stationed at Pearl Harbor in Hawaiiand the boys have a front-row view of the huge battleships and thesparkling water. But on 7 December 1941, everything explodes...

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Book SynopsisA boy. A wolf. A legend for all time. The first book in the internationally bestselling WOLF BROTHER (Chronicles of Ancient Darkness) series by renowned author Michelle Paver.Thousands of years ago, a powerful and malevolent force conjured a demon: a demon so evil that it could only be contained in the body of a ferocious bear, a demon determined to destroy the world. Only one boy can stop it ... Twelve-year-old Torak sees his father murdered by the bear. With his dying breath, he asks his son to make him a promise. Alone, wounded, terrified and on the run, Torak must now lead the bear to the Mountain of the World Spirit - a mountain that no one has ever found before. But can Torak keep his promise? A terrifying quest commences in a world of wolves, tree spirits and Hidden People, a world in which trusting a friend means risking your life. Audio edition also available, read by Sir Ian McKellen.Latest sequels Oath Taker and Viper's Daughter published in 2020-21.Trade ReviewWolf Brother combines elements of fantasy, prehistoric fiction and facts, to make a brilliant book. This the first in a series of six (and one of the best, too). I would recommend it to any one who likes wolves (essential!), magic and stone age people! * THE GUARDIAN *Wolf Brother combines elements of fantasy, prehistoric fiction and facts, to make a brilliant book. This the first in a series of six (and one of the best, too). I would recommend it to any one who likes wolves (essential!), magic and stone age people! * THE GUARDIAN *The story is a rich tale full strong with the themes of survival, magic and folklore. Michelle Paver manages to install the same dreams in the reader's head that she once had herself - the dream to run with wolves in a prehistoric forest. * FANTASY BOOK REVIEW *The story is a rich tale full strong with the themes of survival, magic and folklore. Michelle Paver manages to install the same dreams in the reader's head that she once had herself - the dream to run with wolves in a prehistoric forest. * FANTASY BOOK REVIEW *Wolf Brother, the first of six books in Chronicles of Ancient Darkness, is a terrific read, and I was instantly grabbed by the throat and whooshed along by the power of the writing. * HISTORICAL NOVEL SOCIETY *Wolf Brother, the first of six books in Chronicles of Ancient Darkness, is a terrific read, and I was instantly grabbed by the throat and whooshed along by the power of the writing. * HISTORICAL NOVEL SOCIETY *Rich in detail which brings the past to life and makes the forest background vivid to all readers * LOVEREADING4KIDS *Rich in detail which brings the past to life and makes the forest background vivid to all readers * LOVEREADING4KIDS *I liked the book because it is a thrilling, packed with a ton of action, and is an adventure you don't usually find in books. Wolf Brother never lets you stop reading, and it keeps a ton of suspense. * TEEN INK subscriber review *I liked the book because it is a thrilling, packed with a ton of action, and is an adventure you don't usually find in books. Wolf Brother never lets you stop reading, and it keeps a ton of suspense. * TEEN INK subscriber review *Wolf Brother is a book where time passes quickly as the reader is absorbed into a colourful world. And before you know it the book has ended and you find you just have to grab the next book in the series and continue reading. * THE DESK OF KAREN LEE FIELD REVIEW *Wolf Brother is a book where time passes quickly as the reader is absorbed into a colourful world. And before you know it the book has ended and you find you just have to grab the next book in the series and continue reading. * THE DESK OF KAREN LEE FIELD REVIEW *

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Book SynopsisA New York Times bestseller!Perfect for fans of Divine Rivals, a critically acclaimed, multi-layered romance set in the perilous days of World Wars I and II, where gods hold the fates--and the hearts--of four mortals in their hands.They are Hazel, James, Aubrey, and Colette. A classical pianist from London, a British would-be architect-turned-soldier, a Harlem-born ragtime genius in the U.S. Army, and a Belgian orphan with a gorgeous voice and a devastating past. Their story, as told by goddess Aphrodite, who must spin the tale or face judgment on Mount Olympus, is filled with hope and heartbreak, prejudice and passion, and reveals that, though War is a formidable force, it's no match for the transcendent power of Love.Hailed by critics, Lovely War has received seven starred reviews and is an indie bestseller. Author Julie Berry has been called a modern master of historical fiction by Bookpage and a celestially inspired st

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Book SynopsisWelcome to Professor Brownstone's vault - containing ancient relics from around the world, all collected by his famous ancestors! This fan favourite is coming to shelves in paperback! Follow the epic journey of Brownstone's earliest ancestor, Arthur, and travel back to the age of the Vikings where this bookish young adventurer must find the courage to save his village and defeat the mighty beast Fenrir...Trade ReviewA beautiful, immersive introduction to Norse mythology. * The Guardian *A real treat for kids that love adventure, exciting mythical characters and quick reads. * BookTrust *The beautifully detailed illustrations that our hero travels through while utilising his PC-game-like inventory of collected objects make this an exciting, action packed read. -- Children's Books Ireland

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Book SynopsisA gripping tale of conflict and survival that has inspired millions of young readers and adults alike, with three million copies sold worldwide Eleven-year-old Salva is forced to flee on foot when his village comes under attack. Braving every imaginable hardship – including killer lions and hungry crocodiles – he is one of the 'lost boys' travelling the African continent on foot in search of his family and a safe place to stay. Nya goes to the pond two times a day to fetch water. It takes her eight hours. But there is unexpected hope, as these two stories set in Sudan – one unfolding in 2008 and one in 1985 – go on to intersect with Nya’s in an astonishing and moving way.Trade Review'This spare, hard-hitting novel delivers a memorable portrait of two children in Sudan...Tragic and harrowing.' * Publishers Weekly starred review *'Park simply yet convincingly depicts the chaos of war and an unforgiving landscape...A heartfelt account.' * Kirkus Reviews *'Riveting.' * The Horn Book *'There have been several books about the lost boys of Sudan for adults, teens, and even for elementary-school readers. But [this] spare, immediate account, based on a true story, adds a stirring contemporary dimension...Young readers will be stunned by the triumphant climax.' * Booklist starred review *'Brilliant...A touching narrative about strife and survival on a scale most American readers will never see.' * BookPage *'This powerful dual narrative packs suspense and introspection into Park's characteristic spare description; while there are lots of details offered to the reader, they come not in long, prosaic lines but in simple, detached observations. Both Salva's and Nya's stories are told with brutal, simple honesty, and they deliver remarkable perspective on the Sudanese conflict. The novel's brevity and factual basis makes the reality of life in Sudan very accessible, and readers will find both the story and the style extremely moving.' * The Bulletin *'Two narratives intersect in a quiet conclusion that is filled with hope.' * School Library Journal Starred Review *'[A] fast, page-turning read...A great book for high school students and an important novel for young adults who enjoy learning about other world cultures.' * VOYA *

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Book SynopsisA father and his daughters may not be able to return home . . . but they can celebrate stories of their homeland! As bedtime approaches, three young girls eagerly await the return of their father who tells them stories of a faraway homeland-Palestine. Through their father's memories, the Old City of Jerusalem comes to life: the sounds of street vendors beating rhythms with brass coffee cups, the smell of argileh drifting through windows, and the sight of doves flapping their wings toward home. These daughters of the diaspora feel love for a place they have never been, a place they cannot go. But, as their father's story comes to an end, they know that through his memories they will always return. A Palestinian family celebrates the stories of their homeland in this moving autobiographical picture book debut by Hannah Moushabeck. With heartfelt illustrations by Reem Madooh, this story is a love letter to home, to family, and to the persisting hope of people, which transcends borders.

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Book Synopsis From the author of the bestselling THE GIRL OF INK & STARS comes a moving, enthralling and heartbreaking tale of finding your way home ... WINNER OF THE HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION YOUNG QUILLS AWARD SHORTLISTED FOR THE COSTA BOOK AWARD SHORTLISTED FOR THE BLUE PETER BOOK AWARD 'The Island at the End of Everything is such a fiercely kind and generous book, and so finely-wrought and so full of light ... brilliant.' KATHERINE RUNDELL 'Kiran Millwood Hargrave is the new big gun in children’s fiction ... This is an enchanting book by a writer who fully deserves the fuss that’s being made of her.' TELEGRAPH 'Beautiful' FRANCES HARDINGE Amihan lives on Culion Island, where some of the inhabitants – including her mother – have leprosy. Ami loves her home – with its blue seas and lush forests, Culion is all she has ever known. But the arrival of malicious government official Mr Zamora changes her world forever: islanders untouched by sickness are forced to leave. Banished across the sea, she's desperate to return, and finds a strange and fragile hope in a colony of butterflies. Can they lead her home before it's too late? The fourth children’s novel by Times number one bestselling author Kiran Millwood Hargrave, winner of the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize and the British Book Awards Children’s Book of the Year From the author of A Secret of Birds & Bone, The Way Past Winter, Julia and the Shark and The Mercies – chosen for the Richard & Judy Book Club An irresistibly poetic, bittersweet and heartbreaking tale of a girl finding her way back to her mother

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Book SynopsisSeptember AD 80. Flavia and her friends go to Rome to celebrate the Festival of Jupiter at Senator Cornix's town house. When a famous racehorse goes missing, Nubia sets out to recover it. The four friends find themselves caught up in a plot against one of the rival factions, the Greens. Who is trying to sabotage the charioteers? Could it be an inside job, or someone with a grudge from long ago? And how many men and horses will die before the killer is caught?Trade ReviewThe traditional arc of the sports story is emphasised by references to some of the worst aspects of Roman slavery in flashbacks to Nubia's background, followed by the best outcome of slavery for a Roman, as Sisyphus is suddenly freed with the final victory. This makes the story about so much more than which set of horses wins a race and effectively uses the Romans' slave trade to enhance the sports story, while also maintaining a sense of the horrors of the world outside the Circus. -- Juliette Harrison * POP CLASSICS *

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

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Book SynopsisReaders can discover all the foul facts about England, includingwhich monk tried to pinch the devil's nose with a pair of tongs,why some people in the Middle Ages ate dove droppings and which Englishking was accused of being a werewolf.

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Book SynopsisA stunning story of friendship and our natural world set against the backdrop of the First World War. From the nation's favourite storyteller, Michael Morpurgo.Gracie and her friend Daniel have always been warned to stay away from the Birdman and his side of the island. But then they find a message in the sand and discover the Birdman is not who they thought.But his warnings to stay away from the abandoned and cursed Samson Island stay with them. And when those warnings seem to be coming true, Gracie and Daniel must find out what the Birdman knows before it''s too late Why the Wales Came is a gripping historical tale full of adventure and friendship, from the author of War Horse.Michael Morpurgo has written more than one hundred books for children and won the Whitbread Award, the Smarties Award, the Circle of Gold Award, the Children's Book Award and has been short-listed for the Carnegie Medal four times.Trade ReviewPraise for Why the Whales Came: 'A memorable adventure' – Booklist Praise for Michael Morpurgo: “Michael Morpurgo writes brilliantly about war and animals, conveying the big emotions without preaching.” Guardian “There are few children’s writers as compelling as Michael Morpurgo.” Daily Express “Morpurgo, as always, is subtle and skillful, and incorporates social and moral issues into his writing without being self-righteous or detracting from the quality of the narrative”Elizabeth Reilly, British Council “The former children's laureate has the happy knack of speaking to both child and adult readers.” Guardian

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Book SynopsisA true princess is a princess, whether in a castle or a cage... When her father, Robert the Bruce, is crowned King of Scotland, Marjorie Bruce becomes a princess. But Edward Longshanks, the ruthless King of England, captures Marjorie and keeps her prisoner in a wooden cage in the centre of a town square, exposed to wind, rain, and the bullying taunts of the townspeople. Marjorie knows that despite her suffering and pain, she must stay strong: the future of Scotland depends on her... Jane Yolen and Robert J. Harris bring to life a breathless chapter from Scottish history in this thrilling novel with an unforgettable young heroine.

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Book SynopsisTHE ENDLESS STEPPE is based on the author''s true-life experience. It is one of The Originals from Penguin - iconic, outspoken, first. Esther Rudomin was ten years old when, in 1941, she and her family were arrested by the Russians for being ''capitalists'' and transported to Siberia. The next five years spent were spent in exile where they went barefoot and hungry until the end of the Second World War. Despite the hardships endured, Esther''s story radiates optimism and is a beautiful example of the resilience of the human spirit. Readers inspired by The Diary of Anne Frank, The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas or The Book Thief will love this book too.The Originals are the pioneers of fiction for young adults. From political awakening, war and unrequited love to addiction, teenage pregnancy and nuclear holocaust, The Originals confront big issues and articulate difficult truths. The collection includes: The Outsiders - S.E. Hinton, I Capture the Trade ReviewRadiates optimism and the resilience of the human spirit * Washington Post *

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Book SynopsisTwilight Robbery is the extraordinary sequel to the award-winning Fly By Night by Costa winner Frances Hardinge.The city at night is a dangerous place . . . Mosca Mye and Eponymous Clent are in trouble again. Escaping disaster by the skin of their teeth, they find refuge in Toll, the strange gateway town where visitors may neither enter nor leave without paying a price. By day, the city is well-mannered and orderly; by night, it's the haunt of rogues and villains. Wherever there's a plot, there's sure to be treachery, and wherever there's treachery, there's sure to be trouble – and where there's trouble, Clent, Mosca and the web-footed apocalypse Saracen the goose can't be far behind. But as past deeds catch up with them and old enemies appear, it looks as if this time there's no way out . . .'Everyone should read Frances Hardinge. Everyone. Right now' - Patrick Ness, author of A Monster Calls.Trade Review'Everyone should read Frances Hardinge. Everyone. Right now.' -- Patrick Ness

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Book Synopsis An endangered forest. An abandoned snow leopard. A child who only feels comfortable talking to animals. When fates collide, the unbelievable can happen ... 'Put me in mind of Dodi Smith and Gerald Durrell at their very best - enchanting and thrilling in equal measure.' Piers Torday 'Reads like a classic. I loved it.' Pam Muñoz Ryan The Big Freeze 1963 Maggie’s stutter makes going to school hard. She will do almost anything to avoid speaking in class – even if that leads to trouble. Sent to stay in the depths of Cornwall with a grandfather she barely knows, Maggie discovers an abandoned snow leopard hiding in the nearby Wildoak Forest. Sheltered by the ancient trees, the two of them build an understanding in secret. But when the cub is spotted by local villagers, danger follows - threatening everything she has come to believe in. Can Maggie find an answer before time runs out - not just for the cub, but for herself and the forest as well? An enticing, classic new voice in children's fiction – perfect for fans of Natasha Farrant or Melissa Harrison Told in alternating voices, Wildoak shimmers with life as it explores the delicate interconnectedness of the human, animal and natural worlds The bond between a troubled child and an abandoned snow leopard is at the heart of this emotional and atmospheric story set in the 1960s

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Book SynopsisAn instant New York Times bestseller! “Will keep you guessing until the last page.” —Cinda Williams Chima, New York Times bestselling author A girl travels back in time to find a mysterious book that could save her future in Lisa Maxwell’s “splendid series opener” (Kirkus Reviews).Stop the Magician. Steal the book. Save the future. In modern-day New York, magic is all but extinct. The remaining few who have an affinity for magic—the Mageus—live in the shadows, hiding who they are. Any Mageus who enters Manhattan becomes trapped by the Brink, a dark energy barrier that confines them to the island. Crossing it means losing their power—and often their lives. Esta is a talented thief, and she''s been raised to steal magical artifacts from the sinister Order that created the Brink. With her innate ability to manipulate time, Esta can pilfer fTrade Review"This twisty tale of alchemy and magic in Gilded Age New York will keep you guessing until the very last page." -- Cinda Williams Chima, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author"A gorgeous, timeless, all-consuming tale." -- Wendy Higgins, New York Times bestselling author of the Sweet Evil series"A twisty, spellbinding romp. Inserting feuding magical factions into an already tumultuous time in American history, Maxwell’s The Last Magician mesmerized me until the very last page." -- Janet B. Taylor, author of Into the Dim and Sparks of Light"Intriguing, romantic, and full of twists, THE LAST MAGICIAN kept me reading late into the night. The richly imagined alternative version of 1901 New York City pulled me in, but the fascinating characters had me turning the pages, desperate to find out what happened to them." -- Anne Blankman, author of the Prisoner of Night and Fog duology"A doorstopper with a total shakeup of an ending: don't miss this splendid series opener." -- Kirkus Reviews"Readers will likely hit the final page wishing for more...vivid and compelling." -- BCCB"Captivating and complicated...a smart and feisty female protagonist in whom readers will delight." -- Booklist Online"The pacing, suspense, and twisting plot will keep teen readers interested and longing for more." -- School Library Connection

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Book SynopsisIt's 1945, and the world is in the grip of war. Hideki and Ray are on opposite sides, each fighting to survive. Butthen the two of them collide in the middle of battle... Alan Gratz, New York Times bestselling author of Refugee, returnswith this high-octane story of how hope and redemption can tie ustogether.

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Book SynopsisNow with a gorgeous new series look! In this sweeping series of interconnected novels that can be read out of order, Disney’s Princesses grow up—and learn to rule—guided by the magical Queen’s Council. In Rebel Rose, Belle faces a royal future in a time of turmoil. This lush and empowering reimagining of Princess Belle blends fairy-tale lore and “the French Revolution with a Disney twist” (SLJ).Happily ever after is only the beginning as Belle takes on the responsibility of becoming queen and learns to balance duty, love, and sacrifice, all while navigating dark political intrigue—and a touch of magic.It’s 1789, and France is on the brink of revolution. Belle has broken the enchantress’s curse, restoring the Beast to his human form and bringing life back to their castle in the principality of Aveyon. But in Paris, the fires of change are burning, and it’s only a matter of time before the rebellion arrives on their doorstep.Not so long ago, Belle dreamed of leaving her provincial home for a life of adventure. Now she finds herself living in a lush palace, torn between her past as a commoner and her future as royalty. While Belle grapples with her newfound position, there are those who would do anything to keep her from power. When she stumbles across a magic mirror that holds a dire warning, Belle wants nothing more than to ignore the mysterious voice calling her to accept a crown she never desired. But violent factions of the revolution may already be lurking within her own castle, and doing nothing would endanger everything she holds dear. With the fate of her country, her love, and her life at stake, Belle must decide if she is ready to embrace her own strength--and the magic that ties her to so many female rulers before her--to become the queen she is meant to be. This lush and empowering reimagining of Princess Belle blends fairy-tale lore and “the French Revolution with a Disney twist” (SLJ).

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Book Synopsis'Historical fiction at its finest - vibrant, vital, deeply moving, and brimming with wisdom for the future' - Sophie Anderson'A richly told and immensely moving Partition story that spotlights a moment in history of colonial empire that changed the lives of millions' - A M DassuThree best friends are born on the same day under miraculous circumstances. But by their twelfth birthday, Jahan, Ravi and Lakshmi's lives are about to change forever. The British announce Indian independence and draw lines of Partition that tear apart the country, and the friends. One of them flees, one of them disappears, and the other is left wondering, could a miracle bring them back together?Cover art by Hazem Asif

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Book SynopsisThis standalone adventure set in the world of the New York Times bestselling Jackaby series brims with humor, heart, and-of course-a hefty dose of supernatural mayhem.Abigail Rook never intended to be the mortal bridge between the human and supernatural world. But now, the power of the Sight--and all the chaos that comes with seeing the essential truth of everything, every human, fairy, werewolf, enchanted slip of paper, and municipal building, at all times--is hers alone. With this overwhelming new gift, she should be able to solve crimes and help New Fiddleham, New England find calm in its supernatural chaos. The only problem? She has no idea what she's doing. And New Fiddleham isn't waiting for Abigail to be ready. Local witches and other magical beings are going missing, as tensions between human and supernatural residents curdle into a hatred that could tear the city apart. Abigail's fiancé, Charlie, works alongside her to unravel the magical disappearances, but as a shapeshifter, he's under threat as well. Then Abigail's parents appear, ready to take her back to England and marry her off to someone she's never met. Abigail has no choice but to follow her Sight, her instincts, and any clues she can find to track a culprit who is trying destroy everything she holds dear.Trade ReviewPraise for the Jackaby Series:"Expertly blends witty banter, sympathetic, struggling characters, descriptive worldbuilding, and sometimes-gory supernatural crimes with all-too-believable motives. Quick-moving action and creative supernatural elements will hold readers’ attention…. Lively supernatural investigations with humor and heart."—Kirkus Reviews"Well done, and will help new readers find this series in all its amazingness."—YABC“Sherlock Holmes crossed with Buffy the Vampire Slayer.” —Chicago Tribune"We honestly couldn't put it down."—Nerdist.com"A fun, supernatural and historical mystery."—Youth Services Book Review"Fast-paced and full of intrigue."—EW.com“With tension as taut as a high wire, this series blends laugh-out-loud humor and ghastly horror with supernatural skill . . . Perfect for fans of Harry Potter, Grimm and Sherlock Holmes.”—Justine Magazine

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