Children’s / Teenage fiction: Historical fiction

Book SynopsisGrand finale to the prize-winning adventure series that's changed the lives of millions of readers. Breathtaking world-building on an epic scale. Pure escapism at its best. It is early spring, a turbulent, perilous time of sudden storms, frozen river fractures and drifting ice. Fleeing from a demon intent on devouring his souls, Wolf is swept out to Sea far from the Forest and his pack. The ocean too teems with danger: sea wolves, sharks and hunters of the deep, and the demon is gaining ground. Torak and Renn must race to save their pack-brother, battling the harsh, icy waves and merciless torrents. If they can't find Wolf in time, the bond between them will be severed for ever... Run wild with Wolf Brother for the last time in a Stone Age world we all want to be part of, with three-million-copy-selling author Michelle Paver, Creator of Legends. Read WOLFBANE as a standalone adventure or as part of the well-loved series. 'Can easily be read as a standalone novel, so skilful is the storytelling... Paver powerfully presents a world view that's magical but never primitive' Financial Times on Skin Taker 'Meticulously researched, atmospheric [...] and relentless... Introduces Paver to a new generation of readers' Guardian on Viper's DaughterTrade ReviewMichelle Paver's Wolf Brother series has been, and remains, a touch-stone for so many young readers: beautifully drawn and heart-thumpingly exciting, it deserves its title of modern classic -- Phil Earle, author of When the Sky FallsMichelle Paver's Wolf Brother series is the reason I'm a children's bookseller. The legendary tale of Torak and Wolf, brimming with mythology and the magic of an earlier time, has been a companion through my young and adult life -- Steve Bundy, Waterstones Arndale Centre ManchesterConjures with complete conviction a historical, fantastical and sometimes brutal world * Sunday Times *A wonderful, immersive, and moving story. I feel like I have been on a journey to a place I almost remember. I don't know how Michelle recreates such a feeling of place and character and at the same time transports you on every page through layers and layers of time * Hilary McKay, author of The Swallows' Flight *PRAISE FOR MICHELLE PAVER: 'It transports us a long way from the here and now' Sunday Times Children's Book of the Week, on Skin Taker. 'Michelle Paver is a writer of extraordinary talent. I was enthralled, from start to finish. The storytelling was every bit as vivid and immersive as I remembered... Michelle is in a league of her own with this series and what luck for us all that she hasn't finished with Torak, Renn and Wolf's world yet' Abi Elphinstone, author of Rumblestar, on Viper's Daughter. 'What rich, dazzling, immersive storytelling. The landscape was so bright the light left me blinking, the details as sharp as a carved bone needle... The best book I have read this year by a country mile. (By a wild arctic length of many wolf lopes, I suppose I should say)' * Hilary McKay, author of The Skylarks' War, on Viper's Daughter *

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Book SynopsisThis is the astonishing true story of Zeraffa, a giraffe who was sent as a gift from Egypt to France in 1826. A young boy, Atir, takes care of Zeraffa on her epic journey and the sailors sing songs as she gazes down at them. In France, Atir leads her through the countryside, and thousands of people marvel at Zeraffa. Paris falls in love with Zeraffa. The King builds her a special house in the Jardin des Plantes. On warm nights, the young princess visits, while Atir whispers stories to Zeraffa of a hot land far away. The amazing story by an award-winning author of a giraffe’s extraordinary voyage from Africa to Paris.Trade Review"The stunning illustrations by Jane Ray are full of the most amazing and atmospheric detail and capture the feel of each stage of the journey. A wonderful book.""An amazing story by an award-winning author"'assuredly this beautifully told and illustrated story is an example of the oft said ‘Truth is stranger than fiction.’‘ This is a magical book about a true story… Ray’ s illustrations … full of luminous colour and decorative patterns.. Hofmeyr’ s test, took has a romantic lyricism… Both the images and the text make us feel the wonder and love that Zereffa inspired.’ 'The inherently exotic figure of the giraffe is richly celebrated in this incredible true story … Jane Ray's beautiful illustrations bring this curious and unlikely story alive, capturing the magnificence of Zereffa in alien surroundings.’ ‘ Sumptuously illustrated… A fascinating book.’ ‘ exquisitely composed pictures’ ‘ Jane Ray’ s illustrations are, as always, magical… The curves and grace of the paintings; the details, colours and characters in the scenes all build to create a sense of beauty and care and wonder… The lush language...is the kind of language that we should be whispering into the ears of our young children and encouraging our older children to form with their own mouths. It is beautiful and evocative and mysterious. It is the kind of language that can take you on an adventure… I love the way the whole book mirrors the character of Zeraffa – graceful and wise, playful and mischievous, but always with an air of magic and wonder.’ ‘ The story of Zeraffa the Giraffe reads like a fairy tale. And is even more astonishing for being true! . . . Jane Ray's illustrations are absolutely beautiful, giving the true story of Zeraffa a mythical feel. Zeraffa is a lovely book to give as a gift. The story will appeal to younger and older children, and adults will enjoy reading it too.’ 'Gorgeous illustrations by Jane Ray enhance a topical tale by Diane Hoymeyr … Rich in detail ...make beautiful presents for over-fives.‘ ‘ Beautiful… Jane Ray’ s illustrations bring alive every detail.’ ‘ Wonderful… stunning… fantastic… The vivid illustrations really bring this amazing story to life.’ ‘ Hofmeyr’ s narrative is short, but packs a huge amount in, and Jane Ray’ s illustrations perfectly match the singularity and strangeness of the story, a fairytale that just happens to be true. Each spread is a delight, a chapter in itself, with so much to read, observe and wonder at. A very special book indeed.’ 'assuredly this beautifully told and illustrated story is an example of the oft said ‘ Truth is stranger than fiction.’ 'Each spread is a delight, a chapter in itself, with so much to read, observe and wonder at. A very special book indeed.' "This is a truly beautiful tale" "An amazing story by an award-winning author" "The stunning illustrations by Jane Ray are full of the most amazing and atmospheric detail and capture the feel of each stage of the journey. A wonderful book."

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Book SynopsisFollow London's newest and greatest detective, Enola Holmes, in her third captivating adventure - from the series that inspired the films, starring Millie Bobby Brown. Read them all before the next film lands!Enola Holmes is still on the run from her brother and world's most famous detective Sherlock Holmes.Trade ReviewAn intelligent, rational, resourceful and brave protagonist. * Publisher's Weekly *Just the right mix of nascent nineteenth-century feminist and awkward teen. * Booklist *Exciting and adventurous! * Millie Bobby Brown *A first-rate girl detective series and one that should not be missed by middle school readers who like their plots tightly wound and clues smartly dropped. * Bookslut *Enola is clever, intelligent, indomitable and plucky, a young feminist "in disguise" in Victorian London, always on the lookout for her two famous older brothers...With precise characterization, fast pacing and keen observation, readers will be eager to learn what Enola will encounter next. * Kirkus *Springer's descriptions of late-19th-century England are vivid, the mystery is intriguing, and Enola's cleverness and capability will appeal to readers who like their heroines both sprightly and savvy. Move over, Sherlock. * School Library Journal *

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Book SynopsisAn acclaimed Best Book of 2024! Instant New York Times bestseller ? Wall Street Journal Best Books of the Year ? Booklist Editors? Choice ? Publishers Weekly Best Books of the Year ? School Library Journal Best Books of the Year ? Common Sense Best Books of the Year ? Imagination Soup Best Books of the Year ? Tablet Magazine Best Books of the Year ?Max in the House of Spies is everything you could hope for in a book,? -R. J. Palacio, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Wonder, White Bird, and Pony?Espionage! Secrets! Suspense! If you?ve ever dreamed of being a spy, this book is for you.? -Alan Gratz, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Refugee and Projekt 1065Max Bretzfeld doesn?t want to move to London.Leaving home is hard and Max is alone for the first time in his life. But not for long. Max is surprised to discover that he?s been joined by two unexpected traveling companions, one on each shoulder, a kobold and a dybbuk named Berg and Stein.Germany is becoming more and more dangerous for Jewish families, but Max is determined to find a way back home, and back to his parents. He has a plan to return to Berlin. It merely involves accomplishing the impossible: becoming a British spy.The first book in a duology, Max in the House of Spies is a thought-provoking World War II story as only acclaimed storyteller Adam Gidwitz can tell it?fast-paced and hilarious, with a dash of magic and a lot of heart.

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Book SynopsisIn the 15th century, Christopher Columbus explored lands on the other side of the world. Four hundred years later, Neil Armstrong walked on the moon. Discover their stories here.Gold/Band 9 fiction books offer developing readers literary language and stories with distinctive characters.Text type A dual biography.History: the lives of significant individuals in the past who have contributed to national and international achievements. Some should be used to compare aspects of life in different periods [for example, Christopher Columbus and Neil Armstrong].Place the two lives in context with a visual timeline on pages 2223.

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Book SynopsisClassic tales by Laura Ingalls Wilder about life on the frontier and America's best-loved pioneer family.The sun-kissed prairie stretches out around the Ingalls family, smiling its welcome after their long, hard journey across America. But looks can be deceiving and they soon find that they must share the land with wild bears and Indians. Will there be enough land for all of them?The timeless stories that inspired a TV series can now be read by a new generation of children. Readers who loved Anne of Green Gables, Little Women, and Heidi will be swept up by this timeless rural coming of age saga. Perfect escapism for readers aged 8+. Beautifully illustrated by Garth Williams.Have you collected all the Little House books?Little House in the Big WoodsLittle House on the PrairieOn the Banks of Plum CreekBy the Shores of Silver LakeThe Long WinterLittle Town on the PrairieThese Happy Golden YearsLaura Ingalls Wilder was born in Wisconsin in 1867. She recorded her adventurous nomadic childho

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Book SynopsisWitch trials in seventeeth-century Connecticut a Newbery-Medal winning classic.Kit Tyler is marked by suspicion and disapproval from the moment she arrives on the unfamiliar shores of colonial Connecticut in 1687. Alone and desperate, she has been forced to leave her beloved home on the island of Barbados and join a family she has never met. Kit''s unconventional background and high-spirited ways immediately clash with the Puritanical lifestyle of her uncle''s household, and despite her best efforts to adjust, it seems Kit will never win the favour of those around her.Torn between her quest for belonging and her desire to be true to herself, Kit struggles to survive in a hostile place, and just when it seems she must give up, she finds a kindred spirit. But Kit''s friendship with old Hannah Tupper, who is believed by the colonists to be a witch, proves more taboo than she could have imagined, and ultimately Kit is forced to choose between her heart and her duty.Elizabeth George SpeareTrade Review“A thoroughly exciting and rewarding Newbery Medal winner and ALA Notable Children's Book, Elizabeth George Speare's The Witch of Blackbird Pond brings this frightening period of witch hysteria to life. Readers will wonder at the power of the mob mentality, and the need for communities in desperate times – even current times – to find a scapegoat.”amazon.com “Strong plot, fully realized characters, and convincing atmosphere distinguish this historical narrative.”Booklist

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Book SynopsisIt's the summer of AD 79 and Flavia Gemina and her friends, Jonathan, Nubia and Lupus, set sail for the Bay of Naples where they are going to stay with Flavia's uncle near Pompeii. Once they arrive, they are soon absorbed in a quest to solve a riddle that may lead to treasure. But then tragedy strikes: Mount Vesuvius erupts and the friends must flee for their lives!Not just a mystery - this is an absolutely thrilling action adventure that brings history to life!Trade Review"This is an interesting and exciting read that is extremely well researched. It is packed with accurate detail of everyday Roman life. The story is so well paced and involving that you don't realise just how much information you are absorbing." School Librarian, Summer 2002 "The Secrets of Vesuvius in the immensely readable Roman Mysteries series by Caroline Lawrence again features a kind of classical famous five: Flavia Gemina and her friends, Jonathan, Nubia and Lupus, plus Scuto the dog, meet the great Pliny while on holiday in Pompeii and end up near Mount Vesuvius on the fateful night it erupted. An enormous amount of information about the ancient world is conveyed under the guise of a jolly good romp." -- Fiona Lafferty TES, 30 Aug 02 "Lawrence weaves an engaging spell, painting first-century Italy vividly." Good Book Guide

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Book SynopsisI am no bird; and no net ensnares me: I am a free human being with an independent will.''Plain'' orphan Jane Eyre is not expected to amount to much. A pleasant existence as a governess is all she is supposed to hope for - but Jane desperately wants more. And an appointment at the gothic mansion of Thornfield offers her more than she could ever dream of - including a chance at real love. But when tragedy strikes, she will have to use all her bravery, spirit and resolve to overcome her supposed fate, and forge her own destiny. This classic novel challenges conventions of desire, family, class and just how much of our identity we are willing to give up for those we love.

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Book SynopsisSoldier Dog by Sam Angus is an emotional, action-packed, moving book set during the First World War, perfect for fans of Michael Morpurgo, with a new cover for the 100 year commemorations in 2018.'He'll always be true, faithful and brave, even to the last beat of his heart.'It's 1917. In the trenches of France, miles from home in England, Stanley is a boy fighting a man's war. He is a dog handler, whose dog must be so loyal that he will cross no-man's-land alone under heavy fire to return to Stanley's side, carrying a message that could save countless lives. But this journey is fraught with danger, and only the bravest will survive.As the fighting escalates and Stanley experiences the true horror of war, he comes to realize that the loyalty of his dog is the only thing he can rely on . . .Trade ReviewAmidst these harrowing events, the bravery and the trusting relationship built up between a dog and their handler shines through. The novel covers an unusual aspect of WW1 which would be a useful springboard to introduce the topic of trench warfare. * Carousel *Full of loyalty, bravery and the bond between one boy and his dog. It's a gem. * WRD About Books *

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Book SynopsisStarring Sally J. Freedman as Herself, is an insightful, historical story about imagination, dreams and starting somewhere new. From Judy Blume, the bestselling author of Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret.Sally J. Freedman loves making up stories – stories in which she is always the star of her own lavish film spectaculars. But when her close-knit family is separated because of her brother's illness, even Sally's daydreams are not enough to comfort her. With her beloved father left behind in New Jersey, a winter in the Florida sunshine seems gloomy. The cramped and dingy flat can't compare with her comfortable home, and her new classmates are nothing like her old friends. Worst of all, it is 1947 – and Sally is convinced that Adolf Hitler is alive and living in Miami Beach . . .

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Book SynopsisA rip-roaring Roman adventure from the acclaimed author of Princess BMX, Marie Basting! 'Perfect funny escapism with added Roman mythology ... Charming and mischievous!' LOUIE STOWELL, author of LOKI 'Full of fun and adventure, this time-travel tale will show you the Romans as you’ve never imagined them before.' THE WEEK JUNIOR I’m Silvia Fortuna Juno De Luca: half-schoolgirl, half-goddess. Yes – actual Roman goddess. But it all starts with Dad. He was messing about, re-enacting battles at Hadrian’s Wall, when – pow! – he’s transported to . . . Ancient Rome. I go after him because someone has to. And now, the fate of my whole family rests on me . . . The Romans as you’ve never seen them before! A laugh-out-loud funny family caper full of excitement and heart: perfect for fans of Loki, Horrible Histories and Who Let the Gods Out? Readers will go on a time-travel adventure – with a LARPing twist – as Livi and her family are catapulted back to Ancient Rome Perfect for ages 8 and up; sure to be a hit with KS2 readers, as Romans are a staple on the curriculum PRAISE FOR PRINCESS BMX: ‘Daft and delicious’ GUARDIAN ‘Quirky characters [and] a hilarious plot’ BOOKTRUST ‘Lots of adventure mixed with some very funny moments’ PRIMARY TIMES

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Book SynopsisEscape to 1930s land of theatre in the joyous new middle-grade adventure from the author of The Accidental Stowaway. 1930, London Theatre Land.Charley has grown up behind the curtain in London's West End; she has even begun taking a turn on stage. But her dreams of being a performer are shattered when she is sent off to boarding school, a place where the girls are forced to do unpaid work in order to fill the pockets of the owners.When she discovers that her theatre home is in peril, Charley decides to escape, and make a dangerous journey along the coast in order to get back to and save all that she loves.A joyous new middle-grade adventure from the bestselling author of The Accidental Stowaway.''A glorious kaleidoscope of a story , with the most brilliant ensemble cast of characters fighting for their futures in Jazz Age London. Judith Eagle is the absolute queen of cosy adventures.'' Emma Carroll''A gripping pacey read bursting with star-quality I absolutely adored it!'' Jasbinder Bilan''This book is a comfort and a joy. With shades of Nesbit and Streatfeild . . . I felt like a child again when I read it, which I think is the highest compliment.'' Katya Balen

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Book SynopsisThe Outcasts is the first book in the Brotherband series, from the author of the internationally bestselling Ranger''s Apprentice.There is only one way to become a warrior. Boys are chosen for teams called Brotherbands and must endure months of gruelling battles in the treacherous sea. Hal finds himself the unwilling leader of a band of outcasts, the boys that no one wants. They are small and wiry but what they lack in size, they make up with skill and courage. Now they must battle against the other bands in the ultimate race where there can only be one winner. The icy waters make the sea a dangerous playing field. Especially when - for some - this is anything but a game . . .Perfect for fans of J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings, T.H. White's The Sword in the Stone, Christopher Paolini's Eragon series and Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson series.Trade ReviewJohn Flanagan is the award-winning author of Ranger's Apprentice series and its new spin-off series Brotherband. He lives in the beachside Sydney suburb of Manly.

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Book SynopsisThe Curse is changed. You'll never know. The truth is lost. The lie will grow. The year is 1726 and the Royal Sorcerer of England is on the hunt for those who are Magicborn. When Tempest is captured, she is taken to Kensington Palace alongside a boy like her, Thomas. Trapped, Tempest and Thomas find their magic flickering to life and, with it, long-buried memories. For they are the lost prince and princess of Fairyland, bound by a deadly curse. But now the fairies are coming to get them, and with the truth revealed...can they both survive? The first in a sumptuous and enthralling new historical-fantasy adventure series from the bestselling author of The Cogheart Adventures.Trade ReviewThis is glorious storytelling rich in magic, adventure, danger and intrigue. * The Bookseller *Enthralling storytelling. * Abi Elphinstone, author of Ever Dark *A magnificent tale of courage, faith and friendship. * Piers Torday, author of The Last Wild trilogy *A roller coaster of a story that left me breathless at the magical mayhem and characters...created. It's unlike anything I've read before. Superb! * Yaba Badoe, author of Lionheart Girl *Magicborn has everything I want in a story and more - magic, characters you root for with each breath and writing that sings from the page. Peter Bunzl has created such a vivid world. It sparkles with fairy-dust and originality - bravo! * Jasbinder Bilan, author of Asha & the Spirit Bird *

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Book Synopsis A rip-roaring Roman mystery from Historical Association Young Quills Award-winning author Ally Sherrick. PRAISE FOR BLACK POWDER - WINNER OF THE HISTORIAL ASSOCIATION YOUNG QUILLS AWARD: ' ... a wonderfully explosive adventure set in the turbulent year of the gunpowder plot in Black Powder with impossibly divided loyalties.' JULIA GOLDING, AUTHOR OF THE DIAMOND OF DRURY LANE 'With its constant reversals and twists and turns, Tom's story is almost as complex as the pliot and counter-plot of the Gunpowder Treason itself ... The writing is lively and the pace never flags.' HISTORICAL NOVEL SOCIETY Vita longs to write the plays that she steals off to watch - but as the daughter of a high-born Roman, her only future is marriage. When her father is murdered, everything changes. She escapes with her life - only to end up a slave, sharing a cell with a fierce gladiator, Brea, and her wolf. But when Vita and Brea discover they have a common enemy, they know they must stand together for truth and justice ... A rip-roaring adventure set in Roman London from the rising queen of middle-grade historical fiction, Ally Sherrick Vita, nicknamed 'Little Owl' by her father, is an unlikely hero – but when her father is murdered she has to uncover the truth, even if it means finding unlikely friends Themes of deceit, storytelling and fighting justice

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Book SynopsisA twisty and heart-pounding mystery at sea, from award-winning A.M. Howell."An exquisitely plotted nautical adventure, packed with mystery and derring-do." Judith Eagle, author of The Accidental StowawayJuly, 1936. As the Queen Mary sets sail across the Atlantic, Alice can't wait for the summer of adventure that lies ahead. She's excited to explore the huge ship, with its shops, animals and even celebrities on board.But while Alice's sailor father focuses on winning a prestigious race, she witnesses a shocking attack. Alice and her new friend Sonny start to uncover a dark sabotage plot, and as they investigate gold bars, anonymous notes and lost silk gloves, secrets in their own lives come to the surface.When fog threatens the boat's journey, and dangerous enemies show themselves, Alice and Sonny are in their own race to solve all the mysteries unfolding. But what they discover might change both their lives forever...Praise for A.M. Howell:WINNER OF THE MAL PEET CHILDREN'S AWARDWINNER OF THE EAST ANGLIAN BOOK OF THE YEARA SUNDAY TIMES CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE WEEK"Howell is a hypnotically readable writer, who keeps the pulse racing, while allowing every character slowly to unravel." The Telegraph"Gripping plot as well as authentic historical detail." The Daily Mail"Fans of Emma Carroll will adore this historical tale of derring-do and righted wrongs." The Times"Atmospheric, full of period detail, and most importantly, thrilling." The iTrade ReviewA thoroughly modern thriller, in which the characters are drawn with psychological acuity, and Alice's uncertain relationship with her father forms one of the most intriguing narrative threads. And as with Howell's previous books, our plucky heroine endears herself to the modern reader by riding roughshod over gender stereotypes. * Daily Telegraph *A true ocean delight packed with peril, adventure & secrets galore. * Hannah Gold, author of The Last Bear *An exquisitely plotted nautical adventure, packed with mystery and derring-do. -- Judith Eagle, author of The Accidental StowawayWill appeal to fans of the Adventures on Train series. * The Bookseller *This new series kicks off aboard the RMS Queen Mary in 1936. Witnessing an attack draws Alice into a mystery, and soon she uncovers secrets within her own family. * Sunday Express *An exciting story with treachery, secrets and danger. * Books for Keeps *A high-octane nautical adventure, brimming over with secrets and sabotage, and the most wonderful crew of characters you could hope for. I could feel the sway & taste the sea spray. Really marvellous. This is the first in a new series & I can't wait to set sail again. * Nicola Penfold, author of Where the World Turns Wild *I was riveted from port to starboard, bow to stern by this brilliant book. Absolutely unputdownable and I'm already looking forward to the next! * Zillah Bethell, author of The Shark Caller *Brilliant story which kept me gripped until the very end! -- Ewa Jozefkowicz, author of The Dragon in the BookshopA thrilling, sea-salted adventure on the ocean wave in the fi rst book of twisting, turning and heart-pounding newseries from A.M. Howell, one of middle grade's most exciting authors. * Lancashire Evening Post *

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Book SynopsisFollow London's newest detective, Enola Holmes, in her action-packed seventh adventure - from the series that inspired the films, starring Millie Bobby Brown. Read them all before the next film lands!When Miss Letitia Glover arrives at Sherlock Holmes's door, desperate to uncover the truth about her twin sister, Flossie, it is Enola who steps up to solve the case.Letitia is convinced Flossie's husband is lying about her death. And indeed, Enola discovers that this is not the first time a wife of the Earl has met an untimely end. Could Flossie's fate be tied to a mysterious black barouche that arrived at the Earl's home in the dead of night? Enola is determined to unravel the secrets within Dunhench Hall . . . 'A story of a young girl who is empowered, capable, and smart ... the Enola Holmes book series conveys an impactful message to kids and teenagers all over the world that you can do anything if you

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Book SynopsisEmma Carroll''s books have sold over half a million copies! The future has a lot to learn from the past in this time-travelling adventure that explores the before and after of global warming.On one side of the underwater street is the remains of a house . . . It''s beautiful here, and eerie, a lost kingdom, a ghost village . . .It's the near-future and Britain is having yet another heatwave. Of course, the government have put in the normal curfews for this kind of weather, and shops are forced to shut again. For Polly, it's the sort of heat that makes her do wild, out-of-character things just to cool down.Like face her fear of deepwater. Essential when she and her brother have been sent to their aunt's eco lake-side house for the summer.But Truthwater Lake is beginning to dry up. As the water level diminishes, a lost village emerges. Swimming over the rooftops at midnight, Polly dives down and is suddenly able to breathe, to hear church bells and bird song . . . Polly has discovered an underwater gateway . . . to the past!Absolutely gorgeous.' Hilary McKayGripping.' Guardian, Best Books of 2022Spellbinding.' School Reading ListGorgeously told.' Nicola Penfold, LoveReading Book of the MonthExhilarating.' FT

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Book SynopsisIn this heart-stopping adventure based on real historical events,Richard O'Neill introduces readers to Rab Howell, England's firstever professional Romani football player.

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Book SynopsisMagic and (mis)adventures abound in Max and the Midknights, a hilarious illustrated novel from the New York Times bestselling creator of the Big Nate series, Lincoln Peirce.'Max is epic fun!' – Jeff Kinney, bestselling author of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series.'Fantastic! I loved it!' – Dav Pilkey, bestselling author of the Dog Man series.Join Max's quest to become a knight in this laugh-out-loud New York Times bestselling adventure!Max wants to be a knight – too bad that dream is about as likely as finding a friendly dragon. But when Max's uncle Budrick is kidnapped by the cruel King Gastley, Max has to act . . . and fast! Joined by a band of brave adventurers – the Midknights – Max sets out on a thrilling quest: to save uncle Budrick and restore the realm of Byjovia to its former glory!With his trademark comic book-style illustrations, Lincoln Peirce brings epic adventure, riotous fun and medieval silliness in the series which continues with Battle of the Bodkins.Trade ReviewMax is epic fun! -- Jeff Kinney, author of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series.Fantastic! I loved it! -- Dav Pilkey, author of the Dog Man seriesIt is so good. Now my favourite book . . . It was a really cool adventure and it was super exciting. I loved the illustrations. -- Toppsta * Toppsta reviewer, aged 7 *A knight's tale in shining armour. * Kirkus Reviews *Fun, fun and more fun, Max and the Midknights will keep kids reading and chortling until the last page. And then they'll probably start over again. * Shelf Awareness *This hilarious illustrated novel [...] is a story of magic and adventure... Comic panels with Peirce's signature black-and-white art are expertly placed amid small paragraphs of text. Readers will be drawn into this fun setting. * School Library Journal *Peirce delivers a medieval adventure epic. * Booklist *A quick-witted and fast-paced jaunt. * The Bulletin *Here’s hoping there are more entertaining adventures in store for Max and the Midknights. * The Horn Book *Peirce’s pedigree as a cartoonist is indisputable... his new characters are drawn with a flamboyance and confidence that is rare for series openers. Max’s quest gallops along at speed and the jokes, most of which are visual, will keep readers chortling through the pages in anticipation for the next gag. Max and the Midknights is funny, fast and full of mischievous villains and courageous victors. -- Stuart Dyer * Books for Keeps *If you happened to be studying the Middle Ages, this book could be good fun in the classroom as it uses authentic vocabulary such as ostler and troubadour * Books For Topics *This brilliant first book in a new series is perfect for fans of Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Captain Underpants and Tom Gates, with an added historical theme. There are comic style illustrations all the way through, making it a super readable story, and a great sense of humour as well as a classic adventure quest. It’s nice too that the story features a girl heroine and a supportive band of friends focused on doing the right thing. -- BookTrust, Anna McKerrow * BookTrust *

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Book SynopsisIn author-illustrator Nathan Hale’s Raid of No Return, go behind the scenes of World War II’s top-secret Doolittle Raid with the New York Times bestselling Hazardous Tales graphic novel series!“These books are, quite simply, brilliant. . . . Thrilling, bloody, action-packed stories from American history.” —New York Times Presented in the author’s instantly recognizable artistic and storytelling style, this colorful, exciting book of history for kids starts with a brief explanation of the events leading up to World War II and then describes the bombing of Pearl Harbor from both the Japanese and American points of view. The American response was a super-secret counterattack organized by stunt pilot Jimmy Doolittle. Just four months after Pearl Harbor, American crews would launch sixteen B-25 bombers from the aircraft carrier USS Hornet to drop bombs on the Japanese capital ToTrade ReviewHarrowing and no detail is left out . . . Hale’s tendency to incorporate character commentary, infographics, and fun facts will draw readers. Give this title to readers interested in action-packed graphic novels. * School Library Journal *

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Book SynopsisONE MOMENT CAN CHANGE A LIFE FOREVER. ‘An exceptional read’ The Sunday Times ‘Vital glimmers of hope enlighten this profoundly poignant book’ Guardian A powerful and heart-breaking novel about three childhood friends living during the Second World War whose fates are closely intertwined, even when their lives take very different courses. Inspired by a true story, this is the perfect read for fans of The Book Thief and Anne Frank’s The Diary of a Young Girl.Vienna, 1936.Elsa, Leo and Max have always been best friends, a special team of three. Then the Nazis come.   As a growing darkness descends around them, Leo and Elsa run for their lives, taking two very different paths across Europe. And Max, once their closest friend, now becomes the enemy as he is drawn into the Hitler Youth. Will the friends ever find Trade ReviewWhen The World Was Ours is Liz's masterpiece . . . an instant classic -- Anthony McGowan, winner of the 2020 CILIP Carnegie MedalAn exceptional read * The Sunday Times, Children's Book of the Week *A wonderful book, half tragedy, but told with such sheer, warm humanity that it leaves you with hope -- Hilary McKay * author of The Skylarks' War *I haven't read a Holocaust book for children that's better -- Charlotte Eyre * The Bookseller *When The World Was Ours is the most wonderful, terrible, powerful, important book I have read in years and years. It is so good, so real, so unflinching -- Cathy CassidyWhen The World Was Ours is an exceptionally powerful book based on Liz’s family’s extraordinary escape from Nazi occupied countries . . . a book I hope will be read and discussed by children everywhere -- Francesca SimonAn absolute masterpiece! -- Keren DavidThis is a tour de force, a book about friendship and what happens when hate is institutionalised, but most of all it's a book about love -- Catherine JohnsonUtterly, utterly gut-churningly brilliant. It's a superb piece of writing. It should win everything going -- Tanya LandmanThis stunning book is going to make you rage, and cry, and yelp with joy, then cry and rage again. A genuine tour de force from Liz Kessler. I couldn’t put it down except to wipe away tears -- Joanna NadinThis striking Holocaust story was a real passion project for Liz Kessler and it shows. Begins in Vienna in the 1930s, following the fortunes of three friends over the following years. Inevitable ugly crying at the end -- Karen McCombieWhen The World Was Ours is a gut-wrenching story of friendship torn apart by war. I can’t recommend it highly enough -- Anna WilsonAn unstoppable read - compassionate, angry and uplifting all at once -- Katherine LangrishI just finished When The World Was Ours and I'm in tears. I don't think I've ever read anything so powerful, shocking or moving. Such an important book - it truly deserves to fly -- Emma PassThis book is completely engaging and will engross young (and older) readers . . . it will prove to be very important, and widely read and recommended -- Linda NewberyThe most powerful book about the Holocaust I've ever read . . . it is an utterly stunning, and important, read. I'll be thinking about this one for a long time, and would urge everyone to read it -- Kerry DreweryPowerful, heartbreaking, thought-provoking and timely. This story of three friends will be etched in my mind for a very long time. What an incredible novel -- Emma PerryVery moved by the new Liz Kessler novel . . . the story and the story behind it. I wish I was a Costa judge next year as well -- John McLayPowerful, heart-wrenching -- Leila RasheedA powerful, sombre and moving account * The Financial Times *I read it in one sitting. It is heartbreakingly wonderful; a compelling book threaded through with hope that readers can grasp and take forward with them. -- Patrice Lawrence

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Book SynopsisRun wild with Wolf Brother in a Stone Age world we all want to be a part of with million-copy-selling author, Michelle Paver. Danger, magic and non stop adventure await Torak, Renn and Wolf. The Clans will be tested as never before, as they battle to find ways to survive and thrive in their beloved Forest. In the Dark Time of midwinter, disaster strikes the Forest. Chaos rules. Bears woken from their dens prowl the shadowy valleys. Desperate clans battle for survival. Only demons thrive. With their world in turmoil, Torak, Renn and Wolf are tested as never before. And as a new evil haunts the devastated land, Torak must risk his sanity, his life and even his souls to save everything he loves... SKIN TAKER: read it as a standalone or part of the series and be carried back to the Stone Age, to nature, drawing you deeper into an astonishing environment and adventure which began with WOLF BROTHER and has captivated millions of readers. 'Can easily be read as a standalone novel, so skilful is the storytelling... Paver powerfully presents a world view that's magical but never primitive' Financial Times 'It transports us a long way from the here and now' Sunday Times, Children's Book of the Week 'This book is a novel to be cherished, treasured and loved by every young generation to come' LoveReading4KidsTrade ReviewTop-class storytelling in the eighth book in the stormingly good Wolf Brother series * Fiona Noble, The Bookseller *The eighth and penultimate book in the Wolf Brother series and a compelling standalone, Skin Taker, is a story of survival, despite the capricious nature and fragility of Stone Age life * Armadillo Magazine *Fascinating insights into the characters' understanding of the world they live in. The story is one of adventure, mystery and suspense * Books for Topics *Rich with descriptions of the natural world and imaginary kingdoms, a must for all Wolf Brother fans * Daily Mail *Seeing the world through the eyes of ancient hunter-gatherers is made effortless by incredible language and spectacular world-building by Michelle Paver, and readers will quickly be drawn into lives full of myth and mage craft. An outstanding fantasy adventure that is complex, exciting and absolutely unputdownable * BookTrust *Paver writes with flair to thrust you deep into the heart of the forest; narratives from clans, bears and wolves provide an immersive read * ReadingZone *Once again, Michelle Paver's writing instantly immerses the reader in Torak's world, her meticulous research adding layers of detail and atmosphere... The characterisation is as strong as ever, making the reader instantly invested in their lives and the choices each has to make on their journey... Another outstanding story, Skin Taker, like its fellows, deserves more than one reading to truly appreciate the detail and care with which it has been written. I cannot wait for the final instalment' * ReadingZone *I am completely in love with this world and reading any of the books in this series just puts an instant smile on my face. The author's writing style makes the smallest detail so fascinating and I could happily just read pages and pages about the characters' way of life... An excellent series, so I would recommend it to readers aged 10+ who enjoy fantasy books involving legends, ancient magic, animals and adventure' * Toppsta *Such an excellent book set in the stone age! My favourite character is Torak because he seems so mysterious * Toppsta *Another masterpiece: powerful, riveting, and breath-taking * Toppsta *This can easily be read as a standalone novel, so skilful is the storytelling... Paver powerfully presents a worldview that's magical but never primitive' * Financial Times *This book gives the real meaning of friendship, love, teamwork and diligence, making you happy and sad at all the right times... I was thoroughly engrossed throughout this adventure and I felt as if I was living every moment with the clans. I enjoyed seeing the situation from different characters' viewpoints' * First News (Lexie, aged 10) *There's no better time-travelling guide than Michelle Paver... Action, clever character development and glorious descriptions of nature 6,000 years ago' * Hive *I really liked this book! ... I wasn't able to read book seven in the series, but it didn't matter because you can see what's going on because Michelle Paver is really good at writing in an interesting way. People who either like fantasy or who are animal lovers will really enjoy this * Teen Titles *

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Book SynopsisDiscover magical princesses, mighty dragons, mischievous monkeys and more in this captivating collection of Chinese stories, specially retold for readers today. The book features stunning traditional-style brush and ink illustrations by Chinese artist Li Weiding, and includes links to websites to find out more about Chinese folk tales and art.Table of Contents1 About the Stories2 About the Illustrations3 The Fox and The Tiger4 The Pearl that Shone in the Dark5 The Frog in the Well6 The Butterfly's Dream7 Great-Aunt Tiger8 The Painter of Dragons9 How the Phoenix got his Feathers10 There is No Silver Buried Here11 The Mouse's Marriage12 The Old Man who Moved a Mountain13 The Golden Slippers14 The Monkey King15 The New Year Monster

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Book SynopsisIt is AD 79 and Mount Vesuvius has erupted, destroying Pompeii. Among the thousands of people huddled in refugee camps along the bay of Naples are Flavia Gemina and her friends, Jonathan the Jewish boy, Nubia the African slave-girl, and Lupus the mute beggar boy. When the friends discover that children are being kidnapped from the camps, they start to investigate and soon solve the mystery of the pirates of Pompeii. A terrifically exciting and dramatic story packed with superb historical detail.

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Book SynopsisClassic tales by Laura Ingalls Wilder about life on the frontier and America's best-loved pioneer family.Inside the little house in the Big Woods live the Ingalls family: Ma, Pa, Mary, Laura and baby Carrie. Outside the little house are the wild animals: the bears and the bees, the deer and the wolves. This is the classic tale of how they live together, in harmony mostly, but sometimes in fear The timeless stories that inspired a TV series can now be read by a new generation of children. Readers who lovedAnne of Green Gables,Little Women, andHeidiwill be swept up by this timeless rural coming of age saga. Perfect escapism for readers aged 8+. Beautifully illustrated by Garth Williams.Have you collected all the Little House books?Little House in the Big WoodsLittle House on the PrairieOn the Banks of Plum CreekBy the Shores of Silver LakeThe Long WinterLittle Town on the PrairieThese Happy Golden YearsLaura Ingalls Wilder was born in Wisconsin in 1867. She recorded her adventurous nomad

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Book SynopsisWho would believe that a plastic toy American Indian and a plastic toy cowboy can come to life? When Omri's friend Patrick goes back in time to the Wild West, keeping the secret safe becomes even more difficult for OmriTrade ReviewPraise for The Indian in the Cupboard ‘An assured piece of story-telling, well able to stand comparison with older classics.” Times Educational Supplement “Enthralling and hair-raising reading.” TLS “The Key to the Indian is a swiftly-moving, tightly-plotted, exciting, funny tale, which will keep the reader firmly hooked and frantically turning the pages.” Carousel Praise for The Secret of the Indian “There have been many famous stories in which children’s toys come alive: this book is in the same great tradition.” School Library Association

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Book SynopsisA lost dog, a hidden time tunnel and a secret lake... A page-turning time travel adventure for ages 8-11. Now enjoyed by over 500,000 young readers!When Stella and her younger brother, Tom, move to their new London home, they become mystified by the disappearances of Harry, their elderly neighbours dog. Where does he go? And why does he keep reappearing wet-through? Their quest to solve the riddle over the summer holidays leads to a boat buried under a grassy mound - and a tunnel that takes them to a secret lake. Who is the boy rowing towards them? Why is he so terrified? And whose are those childrens voices carried on the wind from beyond the woods? Stella and Tom soon discover that they have travelled back in time to their home and its gardens almost 100 years earlier. Here they make both friends and enemies and uncover startling connections between the past and present. A modern classic for children The Secret Lake has been described by readers as a "modern Toms Trade Review"An excellent read for boys and girls. ...because of the strong mix of characters it succeeds in being that most unusual of books - a book that can be appreciated by both boys and girls alike. However what I particularly liked is that, unlike many of the lengthy tomes published for 8 - 12 year-olds these days, the page count is extremely manageable with short, gripping chapters that lead you swiftly on through an absorbing tale of mystery and suspense." -- Louise Jordan, Founder, The Writers' Advice Centre for Children's Books; Director, Wacky Bee

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Book SynopsisThe third and fourth instalments of this exciting spy series set in Tudor England, amid the intrigue and danger of Henry VIII's royal court, from the authors of books in the bestselling BEAST QUEST series.Trade Review... once you have opened the first page, you can't let go until you have finished. - GUARDIAN ONLINE on THE LADY GRACE MYSTERIES: EXILEI absolutely loved this. I read it so quickly that I went straight back to the beginning to start again when I had finished . . . Can't wait for the next one. I will tell my friends and teacher about the book. - Lovereading4kids on SAM SILVER: SKELETON ISLAND

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Book SynopsisSnake Bite is the fifth in the Young Sherlock Holmes series in which the iconic detective is reimagined as a brilliant, troubled and engaging teenager - creating unputdownable detective adventures that remain true to the spirit of the original books.Kidnapped and taken to China, Sherlock finds himself plunged into adventure. How can three men be bitten by the same poisonous snake in different parts of Shanghai? Who wants them dead, and why? The answer seems to lie in a message hidden in a diagram that looks like a spider’s web. But solving it leads to an even more urgent question: what has all this got to do with a plot to blow up an American warship? Sherlock is about to brave terrors greater than any he has faced before . . . Sherlock Holmes. Think you know him? Think again.Continue the investigative adventures with Andrew Lane's Knife Edge and Stone Cold.

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Book SynopsisNight Break is the eighth in the Young Sherlock Holmes series in which the iconic detective is reimagined as a brilliant, troubled and engaging teenager - creating unputdownable detective adventures that remain true to the spirit of the original books.Sherlock's mother has died, his father has disappeared in India and his sister is acting strangely. The Holmes family seems to be falling apart, and not even brother Mycroft can keep it together. But while Sherlock is worrying about all of this, a man living nearby vanishes in his own house while Sherlock and Mycroft are visiting. Where did he go, and what is the connection with a massive canal being built in Egypt? The answer will rock the world, and tear the Holmes family apart!Another fast-paced, brilliantly plotted adventure in Andrew Lane's Young Sherlock series as the teenage Sherlock Holmes comes up against a fresh crop of sinister, clever crooks.Sherlock Holmes: think you know hi

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Book SynopsisDuty Calls: Battle of Britain, throws you deep into the heart - and horror - of Britain''s darkest, and finest, hour.Pilot officer Archie Jackson, 19, is in control of the RAF''s newest fighter aircraft, a Supermarine Spitfire.Now he has the Luftwaffe in his sights and only one thing matters: defending Britain. Suddenly planes are falling from the sky, exploding and spiralling into the English Channel.France has fallen and the swastika flies over Occupied Europe. Only these young pilots - barely out of boyhood - stand between Britain and a Nazi invasion . . .

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Book SynopsisLines may divide us, but hope will unite us . . .Nine-year-old Bruno knows nothing of the Final Solution and the Holocaust. He is oblivious to the appalling cruelties being inflicted on the people of Europe by his country. All he knows is that he has been moved from a comfortable home in Berlin to a house in a desolate area where there is nothing to do and no one to play with. Until he meets Shmuel, a boy who lives a strange parallel existence on the other side of the adjoining wire fence and who, like the other people there, wears a uniform of striped pyjamas.Bruno's friendship with Shmuel will take him from innocence to revelation. And in exploring what he is unwittingly a part of, he will inevitably become subsumed by the terrible process.Trade ReviewAn account of a dreadful episode, short on actual horror but packed with overtones that remain in the imagination. Plainly and sometimes archly written, it stays just ahead of its readers before delivering its killer punch in the final pages -- Nick Tucker * Independent *A small wonder of a book. Bruno's education is conducted slowly, through a series of fleeting social encounters rather than by plunging him into a nightmare landscape * Guardian *An extraordinary tale of friendship and the horrors of war seen thorugh the eyes of two young boys, it's stirring stuff. Raw literary talent at its best. More please! * Irish Independent *Quite impossible to put down, this is the rare kind of book that doesn't leave your head for days. Word of mouth should be strong and this has the potential to cross over to an adult audience. A unique and captivating novel, which I believe deserves huge success -- Becky Stadwick * The Bookseller *Brilliantly written, superbly conceived novel, ending with words as bleakly ambiguous as any I have ever read. Boyne's ability to lead us on with crystal clear prose so that we unthinkingly fall into the elephant trap reminds me irresistably of another Irishman - Jonathan Swift -- Dennis Hamley * The School Librarian *

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Book SynopsisWhen the starving Durbeyfields from the small village of Marlott discover a connection to the wealthy D''Urbervilles, they send their beautiful daughter Tess to the D''Urberville mansion to claim kinship and restore their fortunes with a lucrative match. But can she convince her handsome ''cousin'' Alec to help her? Or will their romance ultimately prove her downfall?With a beautiful cover by David Dean.

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Book SynopsisThe first in a brand new series by bestselling Sinclair''s Mysteries author Katherine Woodfine.ALL ABOARD THE TRAIN TO PARIS!It's 1911, and the young detectives of TAYLOR & ROSE are turning their talents to ESPIONAGE. On a case for the mysterious SECRET SERVICE BUREAU, the daring MISS SOPHIE TAYLOR and MISS LILIAN ROSE must leave London for the boulevards and grand hotels of Paris. But DANGER lurks beneath the bright lights of the city and INTRIGUE and MURDER lie in store. As aeroplanes soar in the skies overhead, our heroines will need to put all their spy skills to the test to face the PERIL that awaits them Perfect for fans of Robin Stevens, Sophie Cleverly and Siobhan Dowd.

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Book SynopsisMerdyn is the greatest wizard of the Dark Ages. Obviously. Rose is his 21st-century descendent. Lucky her. And Vanheldon the vandal warrior is FURIOUS! After all, last time they met, Merdyn turned his army to stone. Seeking revenge, Vanheldon comes up with a way to kidnap Rose and transport her back to Dark Ages Transylvania, set on luring Merdyn into a terrible trap. Except - whoops! - his magical minion kidnaps Rose''s teenage brother Kris instead. Rose, Merdyn and Bubbles the guinea pig must team up to save the day. But can they rescue Kris without creating historical mayhem? Will Rose''s wizard ancestor even remember her? (And want to help them?) And will Bubbles ever stop pooing? From the writer of the Paddington 2 movie and writer and star of Horrible Histories and Ghosts, this hilariously silly, heartfelt comedy of errors with a historical twist is perfect for fans ofTrade Reviewfull of laughs and fast action... will appeal to the adult reader as well as the intended audience * Books for Keeps *[this book] made me laugh out loud on more than one occasion * ReadingZone *a big, bold cast of brilliant characters, fun and laughter all the way, an entertaining historical twist and a story with a warm and compassionate heart... one of the best middle grade series' to grace our bookshelves * Wigan Today *

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Book SynopsisA new instalment and standalone adventure charting series protagonist Jack Fletcher''s return to pre-civil war England.His quest: to find his missing sister, with the help of some familiar faces...

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Book SynopsisStone Cold is the seventh in the Young Sherlock Holmes series in which the iconic detective is reimagined as a brilliant, troubled and engaging teenager - creating unputdownable detective adventures that remain true to the spirit of the original books.Following his last thrilling adventure Sherlock Holmes has been sent to live in Oxford to focus on his education. But something strange is happening in the university pathology labs. Body parts are being stolen from corpses and are being posted one by one to an address in London. What can these sinister goings-on mean, and what message is someone trying to send? In an attempt to find out, Sherlock follows the trail to a very sinister house deep in the countryside. Can he get to the bottom of another baffling mystery?Sherlock Holmes: think you know him? Think again.Continue the investigative adventures with Andrew Lane's Night Break.

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Book Synopsis*A National Book Award Finalist*From the author of Nowhere Boy - called a resistance novel for our times by The New York Times - comes a brilliant middle-grade survival story that traces a harrowing family secret back to the Holodomor, a terrible famine that devastated Soviet Ukraine in the 1930s.Thirteen-year-old Matthew is miserable. His journalist dad is stuck overseas indefinitely, and his mom has moved in his one-hundred-year-old great-grandmother to ride out the pandemic, adding to his stress and isolation.But when Matthew finds a tattered black-and-white photo in his great-grandmother's belongings, he discovers a clue to a hidden chapter of her past, one that will lead to a life-shattering family secret. Set in alternating timelines that connect the present-day to the 1930s and the US to the USSR, Katherine Marsh's latest novel sheds fresh light on the Holodomor the horrific famine that killed millions of Ukrainians, and wh

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Book SynopsisDiscover two sides of history with the Time Travel Twins!Twins, Scarlett and Thomas, are studying the Vikings and Anglo-Saxons at school and they have a homework project to do. When Thomas is struggling for inspiration, Grandad comes to the rescue with his time machine. Thomas is catapulted onto a Viking long ship and it's not long before he's being told oral tales, fitted out with armour and weapons and is getting ready to attack a Saxon village. But uh oh, his sister Scarlett has landed in a Saxon village, in a pile of pig poo to be exact. Things seems to be getting better when she befriends the young Alfred the Great, but watch out, Scarlett, there's a Viking ship on its way. Also in the series: The Roman InvasionTrade Review"A time travel adventure story up there with the best… This is one of the best evocations of Viking times I’ve read, all the characters live and breathe on the page, and readers really will feel they’ve been back in time too" * LoveReading4Kids *"Packed with facts about life in the ninth century …this story is exciting and informative" * BookTrust *"An exciting adventure …giving children a real feel for what it must have been like to live in 859 AD. Josh Lacey has avoided making fun of the history and instead made it real and exciting" * Books for Keeps *"A brilliant resource for an ancient civilisations topic, and closes with an extended historical note" * CLPE *

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Book SynopsisLondon, 1601. Honesty, a storyteller seeking fame and fortune, befriends Alice, a maid to Queen Elizabeth I. But can Alice be trusted? A tale of intrigue, scheming and plots set in the spellbinding world of the Elizabethan court. A thrilling adventure where nothing is as it seems.

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Book SynopsisPenguin Readers is an ELT graded reader series for learners of English as a foreign language. With carefully adapted text, new illustrations and language learning exercises, the print edition also includes instructions to access supporting material online.Titles include popular classics, exciting contemporary fiction, and thought-provoking non-fiction, introducing language learners to bestselling authors and compelling content.The eight levels of Penguin Readers follow the Common European Framework of Reference for language learning (CEFR). Exercises at the back of each Reader help language learners to practise grammar, vocabulary, and key exam skills. Before, during and after-reading questions test readers'' story comprehension and develop vocabulary.Bud, Not Buddy, a Level 4 Reader, is A2+ in the CEFR framework. The text is made up of sentences with up to three clauses, introducing more complex uses of present perfe

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Book SynopsisA gorgeous 20th anniversary edition of Eva Ibbotson's award-winning, bestselling classic adventure, with a beautiful cover by Katie Hickey and an introduction by award-winning author of Letters from the Lighthouse Emma Carroll. A joyous Amazon adventure set in the lush nature of Brazil, Journey to the River Sea is filled with mystery and extraordinary characters. Maia, an orphan, can't wait to reach her distant relatives a thousand miles up the Amazon. She imagines a loving family with whom she will share great adventures. Instead she finds two spiteful cousins who see the jungle as the enemy and refuse to go outdoors. But the wonders of the rainforest more than make up for the hideous twins and their parents.And when Maia meets a mysterious boy who lives alone on the wild river shores, she begins a spectacular journey to the heart of an extraordinary and beautiful new world.Winner of the Smarties Gold Medal.Shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal and the Whitbread Award (now the Costa).'The most perfect children's book . . . captivatingly told, funny and moving' – Nicolette Jones, Sunday TimesTrade ReviewEnchanting and inspiring. Any reader presented with this book will be enriched for life -- Anne FineMy favourite children's book -- Lauren St JohnThe most perfect children's book . . . captivatingly told, funny and moving -- Nicolete Jones, Sunday TimesA bubbly and fantastical adventure . . . Driven by humour and warmth, Journey to the River Sea has an irresistible charm -- Julia Eccleshare, GuardianA plot too exciting to put down. Sheer pleasure -- Sarah Johnson, The TimesThis is a wonderful adventure story, told with energy and imagination * Mail on Sunday *Eva Ibbotson's children's books include not only her famous Journey to the River Sea but classics for seven-year-olds and above, such as Which Witch?, Dial a Ghost and Monster Mission. Wildly original and wholly satisfying. -- Amanda Craig * The Guardian *You can’t help but be swept away by Ibbotsen’s vivid descriptions of the Amazon * Good Housekeeping - Top 50 Books Every Child Should Read *

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