Children’s / Teenage fiction: Humorous stories

Book SynopsisAlex Sparrow is a super-agent in training. He is also a human lie-detector. Working with Jess - who can communicate with animals - they must find out why their friends, and enemies, are all changing into polite and well behaved pupils. And exactly who is behind it all. This is a humorous tale full of farts, jokes and superhero references. Oh, and a rather clever goldfish called Bob. In a world where kids' flaws and peculiarities are being erased out of existence, Alex and Jess must rely on what makes them different to save the day.Trade Review'A brilliantly bonkers, side-splitting superhero story.' M.G. Leonard; Stuffed full of humour, mystery and the unexpected, this hilarious adventure is a laugh-out-loud extravaganza of a read. 'Booklover Jo'

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe big red suit was ironed and ready.The elves had stuffed the final teddy,When from the bathroom came a yelp,Ho Ho, oh no! Quick, someone HELP!'When Santa accidentally shaves off his famous beard, the elves all rally round to help. Can they glue it back on? Maybe the answer is whipped cream or candyfloss. Or perhaps it''s mashed potato . . . Will they be able to sort him out before Christmas Eve? Things are not looking too good until the littlest elf has a bright idea!Festive and fun, this is destined to become a seasonal favourite.

Read more less

Book SynopsisTom Percival grew up in a remote and beautiful part of South Shropshire. On reflection this seemed rather more remote than beautiful, owing to the fact that he lived in a small caravan without electricity, mains water or any sensible form of heating. He thinks that he's probably one of the few people in his peer group to have learned to read by gas lamp.Having established a career as a picture-book author and illustrator, Little Legends is Tom Percival's first foray into the world of writing chapter books for young readers.The idea for Little Legends was developed by Tom Percival and Made in Me, a digital creative studio exploring new ways for technology and storytelling to inspire the next generation.

Read more less

Book SynopsisA Children's Book of the Year in The Telegraph and an Empathy Lab Read for Empathy book 2020.A very funny and lovable picture book tribute to grandparents and older people.When you're small, everybody bigger than you seems really old. But does being older have to mean being boring, or slow, or quiet? NO! Elina Ellis' wonderful illustrations reveal that the age you are makes no difference to how amazing you can be.From the winner of the Macmillan Prize for Illustration 2017, The Truth About Old People is an instant favourite with children and grown-ups that tackles ageism without being preachy. Elina has a great talent for characterful illustration: you'll feel like you've known this family all your life.Trade ReviewEllis’s noisy, bright, dynamic pages, filled with grandparents riding rollercoasters, smooching, dancing and flipping whole stackfuls of pancakes, assert that the elderly, too, can be anarchically amazing. * The Guardian *This is a defiantly upbeat book . . . grandparents are the rising stars of children's fiction – and this simple, touching story shows why – 5 stars, Book of the Week * Saturday Telegraph *This is one of those picture books that make wonderful use of the way children read illustrations while adults read words aloud. * The New York Times *Ellis tackles ageism and celebrates older people . . . Her art, reminiscent of Sara Ogilvie has a real joyful energy. * Bookseller *Original and brilliant manifesto, for young readers, on how strong, dynamic, crazy and valuable grandmas and grandpas are. * i News *Ellis's illustrations exude movement and energy and the expressive faces really bring the characters to life. * The School Librarian *This is good fun to read and to look at, and could spark some interesting conversations on the fun or embarrassing things that grandparents do * Books For Keeps *A delightful read-aloud that celebrates grandparents and the special bond they share with their grandchildren * School Library Journal *

Read more less

Book SynopsisWas there ever such a husband?A classic find from the Faber archive and a sure hit on Father''s Day!The story of a man who creates more trouble for himself than he could ever have expected, will bring a smile to every dad''s face. It''s also a hilarious fable to read to children as you would expect from a story that features a dad getting stuck in a chimney due to a cow falling off a roof . . .

Read more less

Book SynopsisLittle Princess visits a friend who has a rabbit, and comes home obsessed with getting one herself. She’s given a stick-insect, a goldfish and a few other low-maintenance pets, but she still wants a bunny. Sometimes getting exactly what you want is a lesson in itself… The Little Princess series: 'Hilarious and a godsend to parents' GUARDIANTrade Review"Tony Ross captures every one of the Little Princess’s volatile moods and emotions brilliantly and the story will have children and adults laughing." -- Andrea Reece * LoveReading4Kids *"Another winner for fans of the Little Princess" * Red Reading Hub *"This latest chuckle-full episode in her life chez the palace is bound to please all young Little Princess fans." * Newbury Weekly News *

Read more less

Book SynopsisLaugh-out-loud funny and a wonderful story about finding your voice. I loved it! David Walliams Anarchically silly fun!'' GuardianSidesplitting middle grade comedy, with serious heart (and one very funny llama). Illustrated by Allen Fatimaharan, the official illustrator for World Book Day 2022.It''s the Christmas holidays and Yasmin is miserable. Her family don''t celebrate Christmas so she doesn''t understand all the hype, plus Ezra has gone to Jamaica for 2 weeks and Levi is away on a mission.Then a snowstorm hits London, meaning Yasmin''s enemy Tia can''t fly to her luxury holiday in France. Yasmin is horrified when she gets sent a solo mission to give Tia the best Christmas ever!Soon Tia is bossing Yasmin around and without her friends to help, Yasmin starts to wonder if making her arch nemesis happy might be mission: impossible . . .Trade ReviewI adored this book! […] Funny and meaningful, a delight from start to finish.', Netgalley reviewer 'Levi is brilliant fun and is possibly the best talking animal since Donkey in Shrek', Netgalley reviewer ''Anarchically silly fun!'', Guardian “Featuring mixed heritage characters, it is full of mayhem and zany humour, and accompanied by hilarious black-and-white illustrations.” – BookTrust

Read more less

Book Synopsis‘Deliciously silly, with hilarious catchphrases… a great cheer-up book’ The Guardian ‘HILARIOUS! Proper laughs!’ Pamela Butchart _______________ A laugh-out-loud young fiction series from bestselling author Joanna Nadin, perfect for fans of Horrid Henry. Head teacher Mrs Bottomley-Blunt thinks 4B is the WORST CLASS IN THE WORLD. She says school is not about footling or fiddle-faddling or FUN. It is about LEARNING and it is high time 4B tried harder to EXCEL at it. But best friends Stanley and Manjit didn’t LITERALLY mean to get covered in newt pond water just before the Class Photo. And they really didn’t LITERALLY mean to cause TOTAL MAYHEM by trying to get fake teeth to the very best tooth fairy. These things just happened, even though they had FOOLPROOF plans to get away with it all. Highly illustrated and featuring two hilarious madcap adventures in one book, these stories are just right for children ready for their first chapter books.Trade ReviewHILARIOUS! Proper laughs! * Pamela Butchart on THE WORST CLASS IN THE WORLD *Deliciously silly, with hilarious catchphrases, Joanna Nadin’s The Worst Class in the World, illustrated with grubby glee by Rikin Parekh, is a great cheer-up book * Guardian *

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Best Bad Day Ever, from the award-winning author-illustrator Marianna Coppo, is a hilarious and heartwarming story about grumpiness and the power of friendship. Trade Review'A funny, sweet and resonant picture book of toddler crankiness ameliorated by friendship.' * The Guardian *"Wickedly funny and will quickly become a favourite with young audiences and their adults." * Books for Keeps *“Wolfie is having a terrible day until Penguin cheers him up. A heart-warming reminder about the power of friendship.” * The Bookseller *

Read more less

Book SynopsisA lively picture book celebrating holiday traditions, the patience of parenting, sibling relationships, and children''s fondness for pajamas, along with a fun, read-aloud, new book to help everyone celebrate the holiday together in, or out, of pajamakkahs.When Ruthie receives pajamakkahs for Hanukkah, she loves them so much she refuses to take them offfor all eight nights. But as they get smeared and stained, splattered and smudged, Ruthie''s determined to show her parents she can stay spotless.With globs of humor, a big splatter of love, and out of the gift-box creativity, Hanukkah Pajamakkahs is a fresh, new celebration of a special holiday.

Read more less

Book SynopsisJoin your favorite characters from Animal Crossing™: New Horizons for all-new adventures in this official manga!What do the residents of Animal Crossing™: New Horizons get up to when you’re not around? Find out all about their antics in this hilarious manga filled with goofy gags and silly stories!There are more vacation homes to design for Paradise Planning clients, and you can bet things will turn out pretty silly—as always!

Read more less

Book SynopsisBased on a true story, the author humorously recounts the time his grandfather got stranded with a friend on Surtsey, a brand new volcanic island in Iceland. The adventurers face epic challenges like molten lava, melted eyeglasses and scant supplies before finally getting rescued. Graphic novel-like layouts and spirited text invite readers to search for the one thing that's not actually true in this thrilling yet light-hearted tale of adventure. Endnotes include information about volcanoes, Icelandic culture and Norse mythology.Trade Review★ “Two amateur explorers become stranded on a newly formed volcanic island when the fishing boat that drops them off fails to come back” – Kirkus Reviews, starred review “Based on a true account, the book’s comfortable and engaging storytelling presents the tale in a humorous way sprinkled with Icelandic myths and a dash of magic . . . Highly recommended for public or school libraries. This gently exciting story will be enjoyed by adventure-loving children.” - School Library Journal“Benediktsson’s Icelandic grandfather inspires this ‘mostly true,’ magically buoyed tale of a volcanic excursion that teeters on disaster” – Publishers Weekly "This strikingly unusual picture book contains a true story about the author’s grandfather, a scientist stranded on a volcanic island. Lively illustrations allude to the mythology, and the text, including facts in the back, is involving." - The Sunday Times, Best Books for Children 2023

Read more less

Book SynopsisUnicorn NOT Wanted is a novel take on unicorn stories, set in the wild west!Trade Review“A unicorn pretends to be a horse and his pug befriends a cowboy in this fun and silly story about being yourself.” * The Bookseller *"Will spark the imagination of the young readers." * Armadillo Magazine *'funny, very silly and will have young children laughing and laughing.’ * BookTrust *“A good picture book to share with children when exploring the themes of being yourself, appreciating differences in others, and staying true to who you are.' * The School Librarian *

Read more less

Book SynopsisMeet the Marvellous Little Misses!The Little Misses are all amazing in their own different ways, though Little Miss Princess is often too busy to spend time with her friends. She doesn't have much time to just have fun. But Little Miss Sunshine and Little Miss Naughty have a plan to rectify that with the help of the marvellous Little Misses!A fun story about friendship and believing in yourself. The perfect book to celebrate our differences and give young girls confidence to be themselves.Trade ReviewThe colourful characters have been delighting children since Mr Tickle first appeared on bookshelves in 1971.The IndependentThe timeless Mr Men books capture modern stereotypes perfectly.The TelegraphThe Mr Men and Little Miss characters remain a cultural phenomenon, whose impact is felt far beyond the nursery bookshelf.The Telegraph

Read more less

Book SynopsisFour fantastic new stories about everyone’s favourite twins. There’s always double trouble when these two are about, so get ready for more mayhem as they look after the school hamster for half term, have a competition to build the best snowman, raise money with a yard sale, and have a rollercoaster of a time at the local theme park! 'Warm-hearted, touching stories, full of fun but with a subtle message' Jacqueline WilsonTrade Review"an entertaining collection... full of humour and heart" * BookTrust *

Read more less

Book SynopsisDiscover the brand new story from Stuart Heritage!Introducing brothers, Pancakes and Cha-Cha.Pancakes and Cha-Cha are set for a perfect day of pizza and playing in the park... when they are surprised by a genie granting wishes!What in the whole wide world will they wish for? Treasure or magical powers? Or a pizza the size of a paddling pool? Or maybe - just maybe - they''ll be surprised by something unexpected.Stuart Heritage and Nicola Slater, creators of the laugh-out-loud Jonathan the Magic Pony, are back with a warm-hearted, bedtime story about brotherly love, the art of compromise and an elephant covered in cheese.

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review“A poignant, heartfelt story about the complexities of identity, growing up, and defining ourselves.” — Kami Garcia, #1 New York Times bestselling coauthor of Beautiful Creatures "How lucky are we that this sweet, subversive, utter delight of a book exists? Meet Cute Diary is here to flip tropes and flip hearts." — Becky Albertalli, bestselling author of Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda "Meet Cute Diary by Emery Lee unpacks how complicated and ever-evolving exploring gender can be against a fun backdrop of your favorite relationship tropes and teenage mishaps. The diverse cast of characters, pronouns and gender expressions creates opportunities for readers to finally see themselves represented in a book. It's abundantly clear that Lee wrote this story with love and tenderness for eir community. Meet Cute Diary is both about, and for, helping transgender youth feel connected, seen, and worthy of not just an epic meet cute, but a happily ever after.” — Aiden Thomas, Author of New York Times Bestseller Cemetery Boys “Full of warmth, love, and hope, Meet Cute Diary is a groundbreaking book that we’re all lucky to have.” — Camryn Garrett, author of Full Disclosure “Meet Cute Diary is the rom-com of my dreams! I’m over-the-moon excited for any and all readers, but especially those who are young, trans, and nonbinary, who’ll get to discover this hilarious, poignant story and fall absolutely in love. With a fast-paced, well-crafted plot that’ll have you itching to read the entire book in one sitting and a voice that’s chef’s kiss immaculate, this is truly one of my new favorite books of all time.” — Kacen Callender, National Book Award-winning author "Don't say perfect romances don't exist, because there's one right in front of you!" — Mason Deaver, bestselling author of I Wish You All the Best and The Ghosts We Keep “The perfect balance of adorkable and affirming, Meet Cute Diary is a sincere, uplifting debut. Emery Lee delivers a story bursting with joy, identity, friendship, humor, and the unexpectedness of first love. A necessity for romcom fans everywhere.” — Julian Winters, award-winning author of Running With Lions “Adorable, heartfelt, and affirming, this is a must-purchase.” — School Library Journal (starred review) “Loving and hopeful . . . A heart-swelling debut.” — Kirkus Reviews “Plenty of humor and an honest portrayal of the hard work that a successful relationship requires buoy Lee’s hope-filled debut.” — Publishers Weekly

Read more less

Book SynopsisWelcome to the hilarious WORLD of Harper Drew... there''s a whole lot of DRAMA, but luckily she has tried and tested methods to deal with it! Perfect for fans of Dork Diaries. Book two in the series.My name is Harper Drew. I wasn''t sure I was going to carry on with this journal. I started it in the summer holidays to write down the mayhem happening around me. I thought it might have calmed down by now but I should have known better!For starters there is a snake on the loose in my neighbourhood - a 6ft Python called Betty to be exact, my dad''s decided to re-tile the bathroom and NOBODY is allowed in there, and my older brother Troy seems to be constantly kitted out in expensive designer clothing. I''m the only one who has noticed he''s acting shifty ...But I need to focus on organising a talent show to raise money for the local foodbank. It''s going to be great ... apart from the fact Troy seems to care more about gaining more followers, aka his Des

Read more less

Book Synopsis''An extraordinary book ... a classic'' - Sunday TelegraphSylvia Waugh''s extraordinary novel about the Mennyms, a family of life-sized rag dolls, won the 1994 Guardian Children''s Fiction Award.From the outside, 5 Brocklehurst Grove looks like an ordinary house - the windows are always clean, and the garden well tended. And from the inside, to hear the voices of the inhabitants, the Mennym family, you would think they were a perfectly ordinary family, too. But you''d be wrong, for the Mennyms are far from ordinary. The whole family shares an astonishing secret behind which it''s hidden for forty years; a secret to which nobody has ever come close - until perhaps, now.When a letter arrives from Australia, the whole family is plunged into fear that, for the first time, their secret is about to be exposed . . .Trade ReviewAn extraordinary book - a classic * Sunday Telegraph *A wise and witty book * Financial Times *A remarkable achievement * TES *Wonderfully eccentric * Publishers Weekly *

Read more less

Book SynopsisLoki the Viking trickster god has checked into the hotel and he''s ready to have some fun - at the other gods'' expense! Epically hilarious, this series is perfect for fans of Pamela Butchart and David Solomons.The Hotel of the Gods has a new guest! Loki, the Viking trickster god, has come to celebrate Midsummer at the hotel. Everyone is excited about the new arrival - apart from Loki''s old rival, Thor. Atlas and his best friend Maui find Loki and his shape-shifting tricks hilarious at first. But when Loki''s pranks go too far, Atlas knows he has to get the Viking god to leave before the Midsummer party is ruined. There''s only room for one trickster god at the hotel, and a battle of pranks ensues. May the best trickster win!Trade ReviewAny fan of ancient myths will love this funny, accessible, fantasy story. * BookTrust *

Read more less

Book Synopsis'A perfect story to tickle the funny bone of any young reader!' MEGAN RIXI have something very IM-PAW-TANT to tell you...I was with my mutt mates in the dog park when we saw something MONSTROUS through the trees...I recognized it straight away. It was a huge DINO-ROAR!Now, I know what you're thinking - dino-roars don't exist anymore, right? WRONG. I spotted one in the flesh, well in the bone...And it smelt tail-waggingly tasty!I followed its sniff-a-licious scent to the BIGGEST building I've ever seen, and the smells coming from inside were the most dusty, moldy, oldy, dirt-lectable whiffs I've ever wrapped my snout around.I don't know what the humongous building is, but what I do know is that I just HAVE to get inside. It will be the greatest challenge my pooch pack have ever faced!

Read more less

Book SynopsisSquirm is a funny, wildly entertaining adventure about the great outdoors and protecting the environment, from New York Times bestselling author Carl Hiaasen, author of modern classic, Hoot.Some facts about Billy Dickens: * He once saw a biker swerve across the road in order to run over a snake.* Later, that motorcycle somehow ended up at the bottom of a canal.* Billy isn't the type to let things go.Some facts about Billy's family: * They've lived in six different Florida towns because Billy's mum insists on getting a house near a bald eagle nest.* Billy's dad left when he was four and is a total mystery.* Billy has just found his dad's address – in Montana.This summer, Billy will fly across the country, hike a mountain, float a river, dodge a grizzly bear, shoot down a spy drone, save a neighbour's cat, save an endangered panther, and then try to save his own father.Trade ReviewHumorous, self-deprecating narration and convoluted exploits will keep pages turning till the satisfying close. * Kirkus Reviews *Hiaasen's latest is richly steeped in the natural world and all the peril it contains, from rattlers to grizzlies. Still, what may be most satisfying for readers are the personal connections Billy makes, whether it's getting to know his new stepsister or making peace with his dad. * Booklist *Hiaasen's ecological passion shows no sign of abatement, and neither does his faith in kid resourcefulness and family resilience * Bulletin *

Read more less

Book SynopsisJoin Tom on an incredible treasure hunt through time and battle history's mightiest warriors. The third book in a new time-travelling series perfect for fans of Beast Quest.When ten-year-old Tom accidentally smashes a statue in a museum he releases Isis, a young Egyptian mummy who has been imprisoned for thousands of years. To break an ancient curse, the duo must travel back in time to find six hidden amulets battling Gladiators, Knights, Greeks, Vikings, Pirates and Egyptian Warriors!On their third journey, Tom and Isis set sail in the freezing cold on a Viking longboat. Will they succeed in their treasure hunt before the terrifying Vikings begin their next raid?FREE collectable Gaming Cards and fascinating facts with every book!Trade Review“I thought it was epic. I really enjoyed it. It was really exciting and I loved the adventure.” Sam, aged 8. “Fascinating! Cool, good and easy to read.” Lauren, aged 8. “I read it in one afternoon because I liked it so much.” Noah, aged 7.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe second tall-but-true tale in the darkly comic new series SKELETON KEYS from the award-winning duo behind STITCH HEAD... Greetings! My name is Skeleton Keys and these fantabulant fingers of mine can open doors to hidden worlds… Join me for the strange tale of Luna Moon, whose family is disappearing before her very eyes… Luna is the only one to mourn the death of her grandfather Old Man Moon – the rest of her family couldn’t be happier to see the back of the bad-tempered old miser. But as they celebrate his demise with a giddy jig, Aunt Summer vanishes ... only to reappear as a painting. While Luna is convinced her grandfather has kept his word to haunt them from beyond the grave, Skeleton Keys is certain that this is the work of an unimaginary. Can he get to the bottom of the mystery before the whole of Luna’s family disappears? Read Skeleton Keys' first unbelievably true tale: THE UNIMAGINARY FRIEND! Perfect for fans of David Walliams, AMELIA FANG and THE NOTHING TO SEE HERE HOTEL. Praise for SKELETON KEYS: “Guy has mixed cleverly-created characters with his trademark humour and wit to give us his best book yet. This is one spooky series I’m going to devour!” Authorfy Trade Review“Guy has mixed cleverly-created characters with his trademark humour and wit to give us his best book yet. This is one spooky series I’m going to devour!” -- Authorfy

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe seventh animal in the hilarious AWESOME ANIMALS series awesome adventures with the wildest wildlife.It's a HUGE surprise when Farmer Palmer chooses Lewie the llama to guard his new lambs. It's the most important job on the farm and everyone thought he'd pick the biggest strongest, loudest llama.Lewie is the best at singing and dancing but is he a match for a cunning coyote?Trade ReviewPRAISE FOR THE AWESOME ANIMALS SERIES:“Charming. Funny and exciting.” – The Daily Telegraph “Very funny, action-packed animal adventure.” – The Bookseller “This book is witty and wonderful.” – The Liverpool Echo

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe hilarious adventures of everyone's favourite bear, Paddington, now a major movie star!Paddington always finds himself in unusual situations so it is no surprise when he has a run-in with the police, appears in a TV cookery show, and gives one of his hard stares to a hypnotist!For more than sixty years, Paddington Bear has touched the hearts of adults and children worldwide with his earnest good intentions and humorous misadventures.Trade ReviewPraise for Paddington’s Finest Hour: “…a delight throughout…” Financial Times Praise for Love From Paddington: “…a jolly ride through the best of the Paddington tales” The Times “…a delightful collection…” Sunday Express Praise for the Paddington series: ‘I’ve always had great respect for Paddington…He is a British institution.’ Stephen Fry ‘Paddington has joined Pooh as one of the great bears of English children’s literature.’ The Teacher ‘Michael Bond’s accident-prone bear…has become one of the most enduring of children’s characters.’ The Bookseller

Read more less

Book SynopsisAn empowering and engaging Mr Men Little Miss story about appreciating and celebrating our differences.Little Miss Tiny wishes she was taller. But Mr Tickle loves his long arms, perfect for tickling. Do you appreciate what makes you unique? The Mr Men and Little Miss are all different, and it's time for them to realise that they're all uniquely brilliant in their own way!Join the Mr Men and Little Miss as they help little ones unpack big feelings in the brand new, collectable series: Discover YouThe Mr Men and Little Miss are the perfect characters to help children understand a bit more about their own emotions and how to manage them. With engaging questions to encourage conversations and some helpful tips from favourite characters to help children develop their emotional intelligence.Trade Review“Sensitive and engaging, full of bright, gorgeous illustrations, these books are a wonderful tool to read with your child at any time, in particular if they are struggling with these emotions or behaviours.” – Mini Travellers “Perfect additions to any home, nursery or school” –Lancashire Newspaper Group “The colourful characters have been delighting children since Mr Tickle first appeared on bookshelves in 1971.” –The Independent “The timeless Mr Men books capture modern stereotypes perfectly.” –The Telegraph “The Mr Men and Little Miss characters remain a cultural phenomenon, whose impact is felt far beyond the nursery bookshelf.” –The Telegraph

Read more less

Book SynopsisA thoughtful and engaging Mr Men Little Miss story about caring for others feelings and wellbeing.Little Miss Hug is very caring and always ready to hug her friends whenever they're in need of one, but empathy can be shown in many different ways. Like helping your friends when they're struggling and thinking about what would make them happy. Can Mr Tickle and Little Miss Bossy learn to be more caring?Join the Mr Men and Little Miss as they help little ones unpack big feelings in the brand new, collectable series: Discover YouThe Mr Men and Little Miss are the perfect characters to help children understand a bit more about their own emotions and how to manage them. With engaging questions to encourage conversations and some helpful tips from favourite characters to help children develop their emotional intelligence.Trade Review“Sensitive and engaging, full of bright, gorgeous illustrations, these books are a wonderful tool to read with your child at any time, in particular if they are struggling with these emotions or behaviours.” – Mini Travellers “Perfect additions to any home, nursery or school” –Lancashire Newspaper Group “The colourful characters have been delighting children since Mr Tickle first appeared on bookshelves in 1971.” –The Independent “The timeless Mr Men books capture modern stereotypes perfectly.” –The Telegraph “The Mr Men and Little Miss characters remain a cultural phenomenon, whose impact is felt far beyond the nursery bookshelf.” –The Telegraph

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisNew York Times bestselling author and illustrator James Dean shows us how much fun reading can be in Pete the Cat Checks Out the Library. Includes over 30 groovy stickers!It's Pete the Cat's first time at the library.

Read more less

Book SynopsisLimpy can''t understand why humans hate all cane toads so much - they even squash them with their cars. He is determined to save his own family from ending up as flat as place mats. He sets off on a ''mucas-chillingly dangerous and wart-tinglingly daring journey'' and risks everything to make humans see that cane toads are really very nice.

Read more less

Book SynopsisAllan Ahlberg''s The Boyhood of Burglar Bill is a nostalgic, autobiographical story about football, schooldays and growing-up in the ''50s. Allan Ahlberg is the internationally bestselling author of children''s classics that include Peepo! and Each Peach, Pear Plum, illustrated by Janet Ahlberg.Archie was a wonder dog in all our eyes. Nearly a year ago he had got run over. They found his foot in the street but the rest of him ran off. Mr Purnell mourned for a while; Mrs Purnell offered to beat the motorcyclist up or at least wreck his bike. Then, lo and behold, a fortnight later back came Archie. Coronation year, 1953. The boys from the bottom pitch - a great soup of boys - play football. When the ''Coronation Cup'' is proposed, they put their heads together, pool their pocket money and get a team up. There''s no chance they''ll win of course. They''re just the odds and sods in Mr Cork''s opinion. Besides, he''d go berserk if they did; menace them with his one good arm and pulverise their desks with his cricket stump. They''d be better off losing.The Boyhood of Burglar Bill is the second in a sequence of stories in which Allan Ahlberg explores his own childhood. My Brother''s Ghost, shortlisted for the Guardian Children''s Fiction Prize, was the first. Allan Ahlberg has published books for children of all ages from the picture books Peepo!, Each Peach, Pear, Plum, The Jolly Postman and the Funnybones series - illustrated by Janet Ahlberg - to his books for older readers including Woof! and his books of verse: Please Mrs. Butler and Heard it in the Playground. Trade ReviewAn exceptional piece of writing . . . comic, poignant and true. Anyone will be enriched by reading it * Sunday Times *Affectionately downbeat . . . this artfully informal story has something for everyone -- Nicholas Tucker * Independent *This is simply great writing, for boys or anyone else -- Brandon Robshaw * Independent *Affectionately downbeat . . . this artfully informal story has something for everyone -- Nicholas Tucker * Independent *

Read more less

Book SynopsisIt's that alligator . . . Dad should never have brought it into the house. Crunchbag has escaped and he's eaten Granny!'Some dads bring home rabbits. Or dogs. Or parrots. Not Nicholas's dad. The latest member of their family is Crunchbag the ALLIGATOR! Soon he's running riot in the bathroom and on the roof and even in the park! But he wouldn't eat poor defenceless Granny . . . would he?Trade ReviewStrong's books are hugely popular with young children with their breezy, daft exuberance * Sunday Times *His books crackle with good humour and invention * TES *King of comedy * Guardian *His books are preposterously entertaining * Observer *His books crackle with good humour and invention * TES *

Read more less

Book Synopsis''I liked playing trains with my dad when I was seven or eight. But I''m eleven now. Where''s the excitement . . . Where''s my life?!''Tim''s family is the Most Boring Family In The World and he''s fed up. He wants fun! Thrills! Adventure! And school''s just as boring too. But one day a phantom message about Tim appears and everything changes. Who is the day-glo scribbler and what''s so special about chickens anyway?Trade ReviewStrong's books are hugely popular with young children with their breezy, daft exuberance * Sunday Times *His books crackle with good humour and invention * TES *King of comedy * Guardian *His books are preposterously entertaining * Observer *

Read more less

Book SynopsisMore of the (nearly) true and absolutely hilarious confessions of Jamie Kelly . . . Jamie''s best friend is planning to display a picture of Jamie next to her disgustingly stinky beagle, as part of a project to show how pets look like their people. Gee, thanks.And her mum, in a twisted plot created by the school dinner ladies, has been asked to cook meatloaf for the whole school. Mum''s cooking - known for its ability to poison anyone who touches it. Mum''s meatloaf - the food that even Stinker turns his nose up at.Can Jamie survive the shame?

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn the most hotly-anticipated children''s book release of the year, the globally-bestselling and award-winning Diary of a Wimpy Kid series is back, in this hilarious audio edition, read by Dan Russell.Greg Heffley''s on a losing streak. His best friend, Rowley Jefferson, has ditched him, and finding new friends in middle school is proving to be a tough task. To change his fortunes, Greg decides to take a leap of faith and turn his decisions over to chance. Will a roll of the dice turn things around, or is Greg''s life destined to be just another hard-luck story?Trade ReviewThe world has gone crazy for Jeff Kinney's Diary of a Wimpy Kid series * Sun *Kinney is right up there with JK Rowling as one of the bestselling children's authors on the planet * Independent *The most hotly anticipated children's book of the year is here - Diary of a Wimpy Kid * The Big Issue *

Read more less

Book SynopsisWinner of the Great Kerfuffle Best Book of Last TuesdayHey you! No, not you - the person behind you. No, not him either. Left a bit, left a bit more . . . You! Oh for goodness sake . . . never mind . . .Dear Everyone (including you!)!Welcome to the world of Great Kerfuffle!It''s really great. And there''s usually a kerfuffle (the clue''s in the name really). Come and join our intrepid heroes Stinkbomb and Ketchup-Face as they set off on a highly dangerous and nail-biting adventure (or it may just be very silly and mildly perilous!). Oh, and there might be a few dodgy badgers hanging about too . . .Meet the funniest collection of characters ever known to mankind in this stupendously hilarious book that will make you laugh your socks off, and quite possibly your ears too.Trade ReviewI thought this book was hilarious. I read it in one go as the story was so funny. Warning: Side effects include tears of laughter, crazy laughing and aching cheeks! This book must be read in one go as it is so good and you won't be able to put it down. * Charlotte, aged 9 *This book is really funny - it's just hilarious. The start of the book was brilliant - it made me laugh out loud. In fact the whole book made me laugh out loud many times. I one hundred per cent think everyone else will like this book. * Owen, aged 8 *We have just the last chapter to go. The class love it and wouldn't let me put it down. * Sian Downs, Year 4 teacher *I had to read this after hearing Owen laughing so much! This book should come with a warning - Be careful, this book will make you want to read aloud to strangers just to show how funny it is! * Sally Batten *Even reluctant readers will be drawn in by the amusing pictures and the good use of varied font styles which makes the book appealing and not in the least daunting. Great fun, especially when read aloud. * Parents in Touch *This wonderfully zany story is perfectly paired with the scratchy stylings of David Tazzyman; ensuring fans of Mr Gum will be drawn to this story is a smart move. Sharp wit and genuinely funny storytelling keep everything moving along at a rattling speed. It's a short read, perfect for primary schools and could enchant a few reluctant older readers too. Clever, surprising and satisfyingly silly. * Katie Clapham, Booktrust *Dougherty is very funny and I like an adventure that has a natter with itself, a postmodern novel for tweens... due to the novel's clever storytelling - you don't need to be Terry Eagleton to appreciate it. * Alex O'Connell, The Times Children's Book of the Week *A sure-fire winner * Imogen Russell Williams *Laugh out loud humour with some wonderful illustrations from David Tazzyman... make this a super read. * Kathy Lindsay, The School Librarian *Full of good humour, this hilarious story will appeal to all young readers. * Ruth Swindon, The Best New Children's Books: Summer 2014 *An anarchic story of a brother-and-sister team * Lorna Bradbury, 'Christmas Books 2014: best children's books to read', The Telegraph *... a gigglefest from start to finish. * Minerva Reads Blog *

Read more less

Book SynopsisPsst! Psst! Psssssst!!! OI, YOU!! Do you want to know a secret? Well? Do you? It''s a good one . . . honest. You''ll never believe it. It''s so unbelievably unbelievable and soooooo secret. You have to promise not to tell ANYONE. Well? Do you? Cross your heart and hope to die (or at least pass out for a few minutes). OK . . . here goes. You know those badgers? You''ll never guess what they''ve been up to this time . . .With more twists and turns than a pizza delivery guy on an oil slick, this amazing adventure will leave you hungry for more (pizza) . . .Trade ReviewGreat fun, especially when read aloud. * Parents In Touch *Highly recommended for boys and girls aged seven and up, and as a great bedtime story for fives and up. * Making Them Readers blog *Infectiously silly * John Lloyd, The Book Bag Blog *

Read more less

Book SynopsisSchoolboy turns secret agent in this hilarious spy spoof!Before you read this, I want you to carefully check that no-one is reading over your shoulder - go ahead, do it now. First off, that was terrible - really obvious. If I''m going to tell you top secret government information, you''re going to have to be a bit more stealthy. Try again.Was anyone looking? No? Right, then I''ll begin.This year the secret service made a major mix up, they mistook a 13-year-old boy called Kevin for a secret agent (I know, so much for an ''intelligence'' agency). This was the sort of kid that would try and zip wire across a building and end up falling head first into a fountain with his bum on show, so can you imagine what happened when he was allowed access to the amazing sort of spy gadgets that James Bond would use?Despite this, it was up to Kevin to save us all from an evil supervillain. It was the most dangerous, daring mission in the history of the secret service, and also its biggest blunder. This top secret book uncovers the entire story of Kevin''s fateful and hilarious mission.Trade ReviewPraise for The Accidental Prime Minister: a totally hilarious story, brilliantly written and amusingly illustrated - with clear undercurrents of reality * Parents in Touch *Praise for The Accidental Prime Minister:a fun read that leaves you with a big grin on your face. More please! * Wondrous Reads *There's a reason the "Laugh" in writer-illustrator Tom McLaughlin's name is picked out in red on the cover * The Evening Gazette *Hilarious * The Express *Packed with puns, jokes and action, this is enormous fun * The Daily Mail *The 10 best children's books of 2016 - as chosen by children * TES.com *

Read more less

Book SynopsisWhen Mister P crash lands (literally!) into Ruby's life she really doesn't have the time to deal with him. Her life is complicated enough trying to look after mum, baby brother Leo, AND go to school. Mister P simply CANNOT stay . . . but how do you persuade a polar bear to leave?Trade ReviewPraise for Me and Mister P: This had me charmed: a hugely appealing story about a polar bear who unexpectedly comes to stay. A fresh and funny story of family and friendship with black and white illustrations throughout. * The Bookseller *The subtle inclusion of this huge bear by the whole family . . . which in itself is very funny . . . is also why the story works. I was hooked. Highly recommended. * School Librarian *I just wanted to keep reading this hilarious book. * Minnie Barber, NG Kids *

Read more less

Book SynopsisEmily and Jess Volnik have returned for another Scottish adventure, joining their old friend Tommy and Mr Maconochie, the new owner of Castle Keep, on a trip to Loch Ness, where a new expedition is determined to find the fabled monster.The fun-loving Boggart - a mischievous shape-shifting spirit who has lived in the castle for centuries -comes along for the ride, but this time the Boggart has a serious mission. His cousin Nessie is trapped in the monster shape he took on long ago, and it''s up to the Boggart to keep Nessie from being discovered by the expedition''s high-tech equipment. Is modern science any match for the Boggart''s ancient magic?Trade ReviewReaders will have fun with the book's outlandish and suspenseful plot. Again, Cooper adroitly incorporates ancient lore into a contemporary setting while producing an imaginative and compelling tale. * Publishers Weekly *

Read more less

Book SynopsisA BRAND NEW DIARY OF A WIMPY KID STORY that will have you rolling with laughter, from number one bestselling author Jeff Kinney!Hi my name is Rowley Jefferson and this is my book. Now I have a diary just like my friend Greg...Rowley''s best friend Greg Heffley has chronicled his middle-school years in thirteen Diary of a Wimpy Kid journals. Now it''s Rowley''s turn to give his side of the story.But Rowley has agreed to tell Greg''s story along the way, too. (After all, Greg says one day he will be rich and famous and the world will need to know how he managed it).But Rowley''s stories about Greg might not be quite what his friend had in mind . . .The opening of Diary of an Awesome Friendly Kid was originally published as the NUMBER ONE BESTSELLING World Book Day 2019 title - Diary of Greg Heffley''s Best Friend.Praise for Jeff Kinney:''Kinney is right up there with J K

Read more less

Book SynopsisBook 14 of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series - from #1 international bestselling author Jeff Kinney.In Wrecking Ball, an unexpected inheritance gives the Heffley family a chance to make major improvements to their home. But they soon find that construction isn''t all it''s cracked up to be. When things get rough, will the Heffleys be able to stay . . . or will they be forced to move?And don''t miss Diary of an Awesome Friendly Kid: Rowley Jefferson''s Journal - the instant #1 bestseller, told from Rowley''s perspective!

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis Christmas, Greg the Sausage Roll is back and this time he's swept up in an even bigger festive rollercoaster that takes him all the way to the North Pole. Get ready to meet some brand-new friends and family - Greg is a sausage roll on a mission to make this year the best Christmas EVER!Developed and written by the social media phenomenon that is LadBaby - the king and queen of Christmas and of sausage rolls - and creators of the hilarious No. 1 bestseller Greg the Sausage Roll: Santa's Little Helper. Greg the Sausage Roll, Number 1 Sunday Times bestselling series, March 2024

Read more less