Children’s / Teenage fiction: Humorous stories

Book SynopsisWhen Sophia runs away to the moon in a huff, she and her mum exchange letters in this funny, poignant picture book.

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Book SynopsisCharise Mericle Harper (Crafty Cat, Just Grace, Fashion Kitty) delivers another hilarious and charming early graphic novel series starring Pepper and Boo, two darling dogs, and their suspicious housemate, the cat.Meet Pepper and Boo. They are two dogs who do not know much about cats. (Who does?) They wonder why the cat sleeps so much (in their beds!), licks itself so much, what the cat is thinking, and what makes the cat happy.Luckily, the cat can explain. The cat knows a lot about being a cat. They know a cat will sleep anywhere (a box, a keyboard, a sink, and Boo''s bed) and any time of day. They know what cats like and do not like to eat. They also know that although they are different, they''re happy to have housemates like Pepper and Boo.Harper cleverly shifts point-of-view between the cat and two dogs, creating laugh-out-loud moments through her text and art that younger readers will want to

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Book SynopsisA laugh-out-loud tale that's the perfect twist on a well-known refrain.

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Book SynopsisWhat do you do when your house is a squash and a squeeze? Make it feel even smaller!

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Book SynopsisThe third and final instalment in the hilarious and heartwarming Cordelia Codd series

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Book SynopsisGreta Zargo doesn't know it, but once again she is about to unwittingly and unknowingly save the world Intrepid young schoolgirl-turned-reporter Greta Zargo is always in search of a Big Scoop and for once there are plenty of strange goings-on in the usually quiet little town of Upper Lowerbridge. Not only has Aunt Tabitha, the great inventor, gone missing, but weird, wobbling, blob-like monsters are appearing via a very deep hole in Greta's garden and they are slowing but surely devouring her neighbours one by one A laugh-out-loud funny new series from the author of the critically acclaimed The Imaginary, perfect for fans of Mr Gum, Chris Riddell, and Philip Reeve and Sarah McIntyre's Oliver and the Seawigs

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Book SynopsisDaniel knows that his mum was very ill once mentally ill. But he doesn't like to think about it and anyway, she's fine now. She's even landed a big new job as a head teacher. The problem is, she's head of his new school! It's so embarrassing everyone is going to make fun of him.But then things get even tougher for Daniel. With his father abroad, his mum stops taking the medication that prevents her illness coming back. As his mum starts to act like she's from another planet, Daniel realises that something is terribly wrong. And that he is the only person who can help her Earth to Daniel comes to Bloomsbury for a refreshed cover look and renewed marketing and publicity to bring new readers to this quirky, lovely modern classic.Moving, funny and totally relatable, Earth to Daniel is a story about looking out for yourself, looking out for your family and finding friends in unlikely places. Originally published as My Mum is from Planet Pluto.

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewFrank conversations about oft-ignored parts of life and history are refreshing. * Kirkus Reviews *

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Book SynopsisSajni Patel’s My Sister’s Big Fat Indian Wedding is a fresh, witty rom-com romp set against the backdrop of a high-profile music competition and a riotous Indian wedding.“A vibrant and luscious celebration of the Indian culture. I couldn’t have enough of everything—the extravagant wedding, the gorgeous outfits, the food, and of course, Patel’s trademark strong female mains!” —Jesse Q. Sutanto, national bestselling author Zurika Damani is a naturally gifted violinist with a particular love for hip-hop beats. But when you’re part of a big Indian family, everyone has expectations, and those certainly don’t include hip-hop violin. After being rejected by Juilliard, Zuri’s last hope is a contest judged by a panel of top-tier college scouts. The only problem? This coveted competition happens to take place during her sister’s extravagant wedding week. And Zuri has alreadTrade ReviewA vibrant and luscious celebration of the Indian culture. I couldn't have enough of everything--the extravagant wedding, the gorgeous outfits, the food, and of course, Patel's trademark strong female mains! -- Jesse Q. Sutanto, bestselling author of Dial A for AuntiesMany teens will be able to relate to Zurika’s persistence in following her dreams and courage in speaking up for herself. Zurika also embraces her Indo-Trinidadian roots and bucks against white beauty standards... Patel leverages Zurika’s budding romance with Naveen well, and their sweet but competitive relationship will leave readers hopeful. This warm hug of a novel will find a cherished spot on many bookshelves. * Booklist *Provides a sweeping portrait of the South Asian diaspora, and offers an affectionate and lushly detailed window into the family’s wedding experience. * Publishers Weekly *From prayerful puja to high-energy garba dances, Patel lovingly portrays the rich and vibrant festivities of a Gujarati Hindu wedding celebration. . .A sweet and entertaining romp. * Kirkus Reviews *

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Book SynopsisBuddy the monster finds that his next meal makes a much better playmate!

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Book SynopsisThe sun begins to set and twilight falls over the Cape Town suburb of Salt River. The year is 1960, the year of the Sharpeville massacre. Three friends, Ainey, Haroun and Cassius, comrades in arms and merry pranksters, make a discovery that changes their lives.

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Book SynopsisOriginally published as Opal Moonbaby, this is the first in a funny, warm-hearted series about friendship - and aliens! If you love Jacqueline Wilson, Cathy Cassidy or Liz Kessler, you''ll love reading about Opal Moonbaby.Martha''s decided that friends are stupid. Especially if they''re anything like Colette and Chloe. She never wants another friend. Ever.But it''s the first day of the summer holidays, and there''s not that much to do ... until she spots a strange little furry creature who leads her to Opal Moonbaby. Opal''s been sent down from her planet with a special mission: she needs to work out what on earth people are (and my goodness - people are strange) and make a friend. Can Martha help Opal make the Best Friend Project a success?Trade ReviewThe story of an alien who comes to earth on a mission to make friends, this is a rather lovely debut. Quirky and very charming, Opal is something of a futuristic Pippi Longstocking, which can only be a good thing * BOOKSELLER *a little like Pippi Longstocking meets Dodie Smith ... with a sprinkle of Jacqueline Wilson-esque social commentary thrown in for good measure. I really enjoyed this. It's got a certain, almost old-fashioned, charm to it * DID YOU EVER STOP TO THINK... *"I loved this book ... I really enjoy the way Opal speaks and all the things she tells Martha and Robbie about Carnelia, her home planet ... The plot was great and has us guessing all the way through, and the ending was fantastic. I recommend this funny, great book to boys and girls who love having fun and are 7 or older." Review by 7 year old Isabella * CHICKLISH *"I so wish I had a friend like Opal Moonbaby and a pet like Garnet. They would be so funny to hang out with! ... It¿s the best, best, best best!¿ * Isabella (age 9) *It's amazing! I can¿t wait to read the next one. * Katya (age 11) *"You can't put down this brilliant, magical and hilarious book - I had to read it again. [Opal Moonbaby is a] very well written story about aliens, friendships and challenges. Opal, Martha and Robbie are very good characters because of their great sense of humour when things aren't always that easy. I have read this book a lot of times and it never gets boring." * Joe Duval Smith (age 10) *I really loved the book. Maudie really knows how kids' friendships work, I thought the book was really sensitive and made me laugh. I loved Opal's happy-go-lucky personality and the way she got all her human phrases wrong. * Max (age 10) *"Now - I want you to remember the name of Opal Moonbaby - she's a brilliant comic creation ... Opal sparkles and she's totally original. I lovedher. And Maudie Smith gives us a great story too. She's pitch-perfect on the way that girls in this age group act." -- Sue Magee * THE BOOKBAG *Opal Moonbaby is one of my favourite books because it is so imaginative. Opal Moonbaby is funny, creative, quirky and heart-warming. * Juliet, 10 *With fantasy like this, the mostr serious critical questions is whether the willing suspension of disbelief is sustained. Here the characters are believable and their actions and responses ring true. Many of the interactions are marked with genuine humour. Opal has superhuman powers and uses them to strip pretensions from those human characters who ring false. The language used in the narrative is appropriate and consistent, with one or two daring insertions that work pretty well. * BOOKS FOR KEEPS *A touching story deliciously tinged with magic -- Julia Eccleshare * LOVEREADING4KIDS *This charming debut has everything: strong characterisation, dramatic narrative and a perfect ending. Furthermore, the themes of friendship, trust and tolerance present a powerful message. Children will have fun reading and talking about Opal Moonbaby. This could be the beginning of a great new series. Parents, teachers and librarians, please take note: Maudie Smith is 'zooming totally fantabulous'! * NEWBOOKS *Brilliant story, great characters. Highly recommended for 7+, especially girls. This warm and quirtky book will appeal to many girls, whilst avoiding some of the more obvious girliness that is sometimes seen on the shelves for this age group ... I loved the lightness of touch and general humour of this. * THOUGHTS FROM THE HEARTHFIRE *The plot is very well paced and there are a lot of surprises in store for the reader. Opal is a fascinating character and is well balanced by the more sensible Martha ... This is a hilarious book and Smith is hugely successful in bringing Opal and her alien ways to life. * BOOKBABBLERS *Who can resist this delightful, quirky, entertaining book which brings new words and phrases to our vocabulary, such as scoff capsules, hydrophones, swimbats and fantariums. Opal Moonbaby is one of the most charming children's books that I have read in a long time ... As soon as Opal stepped out of her spaceship I found her adorable. her zany and vibrant character would brighten anyone's life ... This book is truly a delight and will entertain all age groups. * SERENDIPITY REVIEWS *This funny, touching story of a very special friendship will delight and entertain both boys and girls aged 7+ * Ni4KIDS *Opal Moonbaby really does seem like a classic novel. It's exactly the sort of book I would have devoured as a young girl and it really did have a similar style and tone as some of my old favourites ... Maudie Smith is a great new talent in the world of middle grade fiction and I'll certainly be looking out for more of her work in future. * WRITING FROM THE TUB *Sparkling with originality and sharm, this is a heart-warming, hilarious story about friendship ... From the very first pages of this book the author grabbed my attention and she kept it right through until the last page ... There's so much to love about this book ... Reading this book I was transported back to the books I'd loved as a child. * JUNIPER'S JUNGLE *I giggled my way through this book and really looked forward to reading time before bed as I knew I could read more of this brilliant story...There was nothing I didn't like about this book and I would highly recommend it. -- Seren, Year 5 * BOOK ANGEL BOOKTOPIA *This heart-warming tale ... will appeal to those who like a little magic in their lives. * CAROUSEL *A great read * ABC MAGAZINE *I love this book. It is really funny, and exiting too. -- Lucy Thomas, age 8...very funny ... with some really poignant moments. * PRIMARY TIMES *I loved it. -- Charlotte, 11 years * ANORAK *This is a great book which has ... ltos of funny, zany twists. I would recommend this book to boys and girls 7 years and up who enjoy a quirky tale with cliffhangers, problem solving and touches of magic. * GUARDIAN CHILDREN'S BOOKS *

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Book SynopsisSparkling, original and fun - Opal Moonbaby, the alien Pippi Longstocking, is back, and this time she's going to school in this brilliant series for children 7+. This is a brand new edition with a fantastic new cover look from HORRID HENRY illustrator Tony Ross. Previously published as About Zooming Time, Opal Moonbaby!Trade ReviewA really unusual book with two excellent heroines. * www.parentsintouch.co.uk *Opal Moonbaby is one of the most entertaining and colourful characters I have had the pleasure of spending time with... I am in awe of the powers of Maudie Smith's imagination. How she comes up with such unique and entertaining characters and settings, I have no idea...I would buy this series for any young girl, who enjoys comical tales and knows the true meaning of friendship. A blooming, zooming, fantabulous read! -- Vivienne * www.serendipityreviews.co.uk *The sequel to the brilliant Opal Moonbaby and a real treat for the tween girl. Highly recommended. * The Book Bag *You'll also realise that this is a book for the girl who is comfortable with reading and can appreciate what great fun words can be. I giggled my way through the book - and at my age that is Simply Not Dignified. * THE BOOK BAG *This is a touching story that had me laughing out loud. I highly recommend this book, it is so much fun! * Bookblabblers blog *A magical adventure about friendship and family that's out of this world. * tBk spring issue *

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Book SynopsisThere's always a new adventure with Opal Moonbaby, the alien Pippi Longstocking! Perfect for readers 7+, this is brand new edition with a brilliant cover look from HORRID HENRY illustrator Tony Ross. Previously published as Opal Moonbaby Forever.Trade ReviewNow - I want you to remember the name of Opal Moonbaby - she's a brilliant comic creation ... Opal sparkles and she's totally original. I loved her. And Maudie Smith gives us a great story too. She's pitch-perfect on the way that girls in this age group act - THE BOOKBAGA touching story deliciously tinged with magic - LOVE READING4KIDSThe story of an alien who comes to earth on a mission to make friends, this is a rather lovely debut. Quirky and very charming, Opal is something of a futuristic Pippi Longstocking, which can only be a good thing - BOOKSELLERThis is a great book which has ... lots of funny, zany twists. I would recommend this book to boys and girls 7 years and up who enjoy a quirky tale with cliffhangers, problem solving and touches of magic - GUARDIAN CHILDREN S BOOKSA little like Pippi Longstocking meets Dodie Smith ... with a sprinkle of Jacqueline Wilson-esque social commentary thrown in for good measure. I really enjoyed this. It's got a certain, almost old-fashioned, charm to it - DID YOU EVER STOP TO THINKIt's amazing! I can't wait to read the next oneYou can't put down this brilliant, magical and hilarious book - I had to read it again. [Opal Moonbaby is a] very well written story about aliens, friendships and challenges. Opal, Martha and Robbie are very good characters because of their great sense of humour when things aren't always that easy. I have read this book a lot of times and it never gets boringOpal Moonbaby is one of my favourite books because it is so imaginative. Opal Moonbaby is funny, creative, quirky and heart-warming

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Book SynopsisPrepare to fall in love this summer and join Precious and Harry on their road trip to the end of the world and back ... Your summer crush starts here! For fans of Zoella, Geek Girl and Holly Bourne.Precious is spending an awkward August in an Algarve villa while her parents fight dirty over an expensive divorce. When she misses her plane home, Precious finds herself on the run along the coast of Portugal. Along the way she meets Harry, travelling Europe before he starts uni. But Precious and her problems are the last thing Harry needs as he struggles to shake off the ghost of his drowned father and get back to something resembling a life. As it turns out, Precious is EXACTLY what Harry needs. Until the complicated but dreamy Nathan shows up, and matters take a darker turn ... Join Precious, Harry and Nathan on a summer road trip with a twist!

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Book SynopsisA fantastically funny, gloriously illustrated tale from the creator of Chatterbox Bear and Indigo Wilde . . . filled with laugh-out-loud llama drama!Shama and Bahama Llama can''t wait for winter - skating, snowballs, hot chocolate . . . and best of all, the Winter Woolly Party! But when The Big Freeze suddenly arrives they discover that their jumpers are in a sorry state! Cue a MAJOR PANIC as everyone sets out on a wild race to Granny Brock''s Jumper Shop to nab the perfect woolly jumpers.Will they make it to the top of the queue before she sells out? Or will they learn that sometimes the only way to get what you want is to work together?The perfect winter warmer, with a gentle message about working together and a light environmental touch.

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Book SynopsisFlea''s got itchy feet! It''s time to find a new dog to call home. But, try as he might, none of the dogs he meets are quite right. From the too loud and too cheeky to the too-frequently-leaky, Flea soon realises that finding the perfect companion can be tricky.Will Flea ever find the perfect match?A hilarious rhyming romp from the creator of I Can Only Draw Worms, brilliantly illustrated by Nathan Reed.

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Book SynopsisIt's a dog's life! An adorable book of letters from Bobs the dog, by much-loved author Enid Blyton. The perfect gift for animal-lovers of all ages.

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Book SynopsisNothing ever happens in the sleepy town of Badger's Bottom, until a group of pint-sized space invaders arrive from outer space.

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Book SynopsisWritten by the author of CBBC''s Scream Street TV series!Nothing ever happens in the sleepy town of Badger''s Bottom. In fact, its only claim to fame is that it''s the most BORING place to live in the universe.That''s until a UFO lands in Jamie and Megan''s back garden and invaders leap out to begin their conquest of Earth, under the command of Major Pain...Tommy Donbavand''s Funny Shorts is a series of 4,000-word colour illustrated, chapter-based readers, which are perfect for bridging the gap between first chapter books and independent reading.Published by Franklin Watts EDGE, using off-white paper and a font recommended by the British Dyslexia Association.Trade ReviewHilarious ... designed to get kids reading with confidence * Parents In Touch *

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Book SynopsisThere's something weird going on at Penny Bridge School. Kids are asking for extra homework! Sounds daft? You wait 'til you read the book!Trade ReviewHilarious ... designed to get kids reading with confidence * Parents In Touch *

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Book SynopsisSarah's invention accidentally opens a time portal to prehistoric Earth, and now there's a T-Rex on the loose in the school...Trade ReviewHilarious ... designed to get kids reading with confidence * Parents In Touch *

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Book SynopsisIn the fifth adventure of the Lady Pancake and Sir French Toast series, our delectable rhyming friends find their home covered in darkness and embark on a LasVeggiesheistperfect for fans of The Food Group series. When Lady Pancake and Sir French Toast awake one morning to near-darkness, they are aghast. Who would steal the fridge light? And what if the fridge isgaspdark all the time? Not to worry. Our trusty heroes are on the case. Will they be able to bring the fridge back to its bright self, or will they have to live in semi-darknessforever? Praise for the Lady Pancake and Sir French Toast Series: [R]eaders will giggle their way through this refrigerated fantasyland.Publishers Weekly A must purchase.School Library Journal, starred review Don't miss the other books in the series:Lady Pancake & Sir French ToastThe Case of the Stinky StenchMission DefrostableShort & Sweet Attack of the Scones

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Book SynopsisIt's time for the barnyard talent show, and this year the prize is big: tickets to see Elvis Poultry in concert. Chickens Marge and Lola must use all their pluck to outsmart their smarmy duck competition in this hysterically goofy story of big dreams, little talent, and one very famous bird.

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Book SynopsisPressured by the stern Minister Beeston from the Department of Economies, the Ministry of Ghosts has been given three months to prove the existence or non-existence of ghosts, or else it will be shut down!Trade ReviewTwo strong characters, with a lot of humour, and a twist at the end - great fun to read -- Diana Barnes * School Library Association *

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Book SynopsisA new life in a new city - what could possibly go wrong . Best of all, her new flatmates are kind, welcoming and a lot of fun - what more could she ask for?But her new life is also a little overwhelming. Anna's job quickly falls through, and then she realises that although her new friends are great, they're also a little mixed-up...Trade ReviewHugely enjoyable * The Bookseller (Children's Previews) *[A]n exciting read, perfect for anyone who loves a good mix of reality, glamour and celebrity gossip -- Sioned Jacques * School Library Association *

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Book SynopsisIf the Future has any remedy for this situation, do not hesitate to provide it. That is to say, Ike and Claire Wanzandae, HELP! HELP HELP HELP.I am (perhaps not for long),Benjamin FranklinIke Saturday has seen better days. For one thing, his pen pal, Benjamin Franklin (yes, that Benjamin Franklin), is the target of an angry mob after Ike''s plan to help the Founding Fathers with some intel from the future seriously backfired. For another, he''s decided to mail himself back in time with the help of his girlfriend, Claire Wanzandae, and it''s not a particularly comfortable way to travel.Once Ike tracks B-Freezy down in 1776, it becomes clear that his pal is less than impressed with the irritating, modern-day rescuer, partially because Ike has a habit of making things worse for Ben, and partially because Ben is incredibly cranky when not in the presence of numerous meat pies. Which speaks to another issue for the pair: they have no money, no food, and basica

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Book SynopsisFUN-the latest in augmented reality-is fun (YAY!) but it''s also frustrating, glitchy, and dangerously addictive (BOO!). Just when everyone else is getting on, 17-year-old Aaron O''Faolain wants off.But first he has to complete his Application for Termination, and in order to do that he has to deal with his History-not to mention the present, including his grandfather''s suicide and a series of clues that may (or may not) lead to buried treasure. As he attempts to unravel the mystery, Aaron is sidetracked again . . . and again. Shadowed by his virtual best friend, Homie, Aaron struggles with love, loss, dog bites, community theater, wild horses, wildfires, and the fact (deep breath) that actual reality can sometimes surprise you.Sean McGinty''s strikingly profound debut unearths a world that is eerily familiar, yet utterly original. Discover what it means to come to the end of fun.

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Book SynopsisLittle Louie is stuck in bed with a bad cold. His nose is clogged, his ears are crackling, and his brain feels full. All he wants is his mom to take care of him, but whenever he calls out for her, his stuffed-up nose summons slobbery dog Bob instead!As Louie tries and tries to make himself understood in this funny picturebook, kids will love calling out with him, Bob, not Bob!

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Book SynopsisQueen Dog has ruled her castle with grace and majesty since she was a pup. Her people adore her. They provide her with delicious meals and shower her with attention. Lately, though, they have been a bit distracted and service has started to slip. Queen Dog tries her best to make do--but then a stranger moves into the castle! Who is this tiny newcomer commanding all the attention? A servant, or a pretender to the throne?With comic action and a regal twist, Queen Dog turns a royal pain into a perfect princess.

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Book SynopsisJed is a regular kid with a normal, loving family . . . that is, if it''s normal for a loving family to drop their child off in the middle of nowhere and expect him home in time for Sunday dinner. Luckily, Jed excels at being a regular kid who-armed with wit and determination-can make his way out of any situation. At least until the morning of his twelfth birthday, when Jed wakes to discover his parents missing. Something is wrong. Really wrong. Jed just doesn''t realize it''s floating-city, violent-junk-storm, battling-metals, Frankensteined-scavengers kind of wrong. Yet.A cryptic list of instructions leads Jed into a mysterious world at war over . . . junk. Here, batteries and bottled water are currency, tremendously large things fall from the sky, and nothing is exactly what it seems. Resilient Jed, ready to escape this upside-down place, bargains his way onto a flying tugboat with a crew of misfit junkers. They set course to find Jed''s fami

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Book SynopsisA stylist-looking and laugh-inducing book narrated by a ghost who is a big scaredy-cat

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Book SynopsisThis hilarious tale by debut picturebook author Anica Morse Rissi, brilliantly illustrated by Zachariah O''Hora, will keep kids giggling page after page as the class comes together to solve one BIG problem. When their class tadpoles are big enough, Mr. Stricter tells his students they can keep just one. The class chooses Bruno, the smallest of the bunch. But Bruno doesn''t stay that way for long. Soon, he''s grown into a giant, classroom-wrecking creature: he eats desks, he farts for show-and-tell, and he sneezes slime all over everything! With Mr. Stricter blinded by love for the pet, the students must step up and take matters into their own heroic hands.

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Book SynopsisAfter her huge success with her first feature-length movie, seventh-grader Kate Walden is eager to start on her next film, a sci-fi romance called Bride of Slug Man. When a new kid comes to town from New York City, Kate thinks she might have a new found film buddy-someone to share her interest with. And it doesn''t hurt that he''s pretty cute. But it turns out that Tristan is making his own movie, and now the classmates Kate thought were eager to join her cast and crew are divided.With rumors spreading in school and between sets, Kate finds herself juggling more than just call times and rewrites. And judging from the whispers Kate hears about Tristan Kingsley, she suspects that he isn''t interested in having a fellow film-buff friend; he just wants to prove himself as the best filmmaker in school by winning the Big Picture Film Festival. Kate vows to enter too, and tries to focus on just making the best movie she can.But between the cutthroat popularity contes

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Book SynopsisIn this bright, funny rendition of a favorite Christmas song, three-time Geisel-recipient Greg Pizzoli celebrates the cheerful chaos of holiday gift-giving!It''s holiday time -- and at first, Elephant is delighted to get a gift. But as the twelve days of Christmas continue, presents pile precariously higher and higher! A partridge in a pear tree? Cute! But soon, Elephant''s dad despairs. Two turtle doves? THREE French hens?! And just what are they supposed to do with ten lords a-leaping? Kids will love each silly spread in this raucous take on the classic carol that is perfect for reading aloud around the fireplace. Don''t miss these other favorites from Greg Pizzoli:The Watermelon SeedGood Night OwlThe Book HogNumber 1 SamTempleton Gets His WishThis Story is for You

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