Children’s / Teenage fiction: Humorous stories

Book SynopsisA bewitching Halloween gift for fans of Peggy the pug! Can Peggy become a witch and cast a magic spell to make friends with the new kitten next door? Peggy and her best friend Chloe can''t wait to meet their new neighbours! Peggy hopes that the new family will have a dog for her to play with, but instead the girl next door has a naughty kitten named Lucky. Unfortunately, Lucky only brings Peggy BAD luck, as the kitten keeps getting Peggy into trouble!Peggy wants to become a witch so she can do a magic spell and make the kitten disappear. But when she discovers a secret about her new neighbours, Peggy realises that a different kind of magic is needed - the magic of friendship!

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Book SynopsisChu''s sneezes are a force to be reckoned with! From the funny, friendly picture book series from the brilliant pairing of dazzlingly award-laden Neil Gaiman and fabulously talented illustrator Adam Rex''This charming tale from fantasy-fiction superstar Gaiman sees Chu attempting to stifle one of his sneezes until he can contain it no longer. Comedy chaos ensues'' Financial TimesChu, the little panda with the BIG sneeze, is BACK and this time he''s going to the seaside! Like all pandas, Chu LOVES the seaside. There are seagulls and rock pools and ice cream.Chu will have a lovely day, and with all that sea, sand and sun, what could possibly go wrong? Nothing, unless something makes him want to sneeze . . .Trade ReviewPraise for Chu's Day: This charming tale from fantasy-fiction superstar Gaiman sees Chu attempting to stifle one of his sneezes until he can contain it no longer. Comedy chaos ensues * The Financial Times *Praise for Chu's Day: Loved by us all, I hope Chu has another adventure soon * Guardian *

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Book SynopsisReturn to the weird and wonderful world of Maudlin Towers for a second adventure brilliantly written and illustrated throughout by Chris Priestley in this striking and funny package. Mildew and Sponge don't think much of Maudlin Towers, the blackened, gloom-laden, gargoyle-infested monstrosity that is their school. But when they are told the school might close, our heroes realise that being apart and somewhere else could be even worse!But what starts out as a secret hunt for buried treasure quickly becomes weirder than Mildew and Sponge could ever have imagined. Who is that new boy who can get people to do whatever he wants just by looking them intently in the eye? (A hypnotist!) Why does that strange teacher have tattoos and a beard? (He's really a pirate also looking for the treasure!) Could their heartbroken English teacher hold the key to this riddle of riddles? (Just maybe )Most importantly, can Mildew and Sponge save the day and the school once more?This hugely funny, deliciouTrade ReviewThe funniest thing I’ve read all year * Philip Reeve on CURSE OF THE WEREWOLF BOY *Chris Priestley’s Maudlin Towers: Curse of the Werewolf Boy is a book after my own heart. It is beautifully paced, brilliantly illustrated with pen-and-ink drawings by the author and very, very funny. I can’t wait for the next instalment! * Chris Riddell on CURSE OF THE WEREWOLF BOY *

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Book Synopsis_______________''You''ll laugh your tail off'' - Rob Biddulph_______________The third book in the hilarious Bad Mermaids series for kids aged 7+, from the bestselling author of Witch WarsIn the kingdom of Frostopia, mermaids Beattie, Mimi and Zelda have come to the aid of Maritza Mist, a famous water witch who supplies magic spells to the underwater kingdoms.Two notoriously bad mermaids have escaped from Viper View prison and stolen Maritza''s map that shows the locations of twelve magical objects. When brought together, these objects will create the most powerful water witch the world has ever known. Beattie, Mimi and Zelda set off to travel the underwater kingdoms to stop them. But they haven''t counted on meeting a bunch of over-zealous spies, the oldest shark in the world or their faithful companion Steve the seahorse going rogue ...Trade ReviewTwenty thousand laughs under the sea. Dive into a fin-tastic, madcap adventure that’s funnier than being tickled by a giant octopus. Bad Mermaids – swimming with snarks * Award-winning author David Solomons *Get ready for some feisty mermaids, evil piranhas and magical mystery mayhem -- Fiona Noble * BOOKSELLER *Funny, fishy and FANTASTIC (and that says a lot coming from someone with a mermaid fear) * Bestselling author Pamela Butchart *You'll laugh your tail off – another winner from our favourite author * Bestselling author Rob Biddulph *Bad Mermaids is tons of fun: stylish, packed with laughs and boasting a fab talking seahorse. The Little Mermaid meets Gossip Girl * Abi Elphinstone *Sibéal has done it again. Bad Mermaids is a fishy romp through a hilarious new world, rich in the kind of gorgeous detail that young readers love. Crabagram just in – Bad Mermaids is hilarious! * Marianne Levy *

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Book SynopsisNumber One for Fiendish Fun!This book contains a SCARY movie, a wet weekend, a grumpy card game and the Olympics!Four utterly hilarious and totally brilliant Horrid Henry stories by Francesca Simon, with illustrations by Tony Ross. An irresistible introduction to reading for pleasure.Trade ReviewEverybody loves a bad boy don't they? And they don't make 'em more bad or more lovable than Francesca Simon's young impertinent protagonist, Henry. The horrid one's latest is a suitably anarchic affair, with four brand new tales sure to delight young fans. * JUNIOR *

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Book SynopsisNumber One for Fiendish Fun!This book contains a TERRIFYING nightmare, a demon dinner lady, a mother''s day disaster and a CRAZY cat!Four utterly hilarious and totally brilliant Horrid Henry stories by Francesca Simon, with illustrations by Tony Ross. An irresistible introduction to reading for pleasure.Trade ReviewForget Harry Potter, it's a wicked, spiteful boy who's really firing kids' imaginations - GUARDIANAll new Horrid Henry stories are a joy to read - DAILY MAILHorrid Henry is great fun and as irresistible as ever - THE BOOKBAG

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Book SynopsisEarly Readers are stepping stones from picture books to reading books. A blue Early Reader is perfect for sharing and reading together. A red Early Reader is the next step on your reading journey.A reading competition? No way is Henry taking part in a reading contest. That is, until he hears the prize is a family trip to a theme park. Henry is determined to win ... but how on earth is he going to read all those books?

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Book SynopsisEarly Readers are stepping stones from picture books to reading books. A blue Early Reader is perfect for sharing and reading together. A red Early Reader is the next step on your reading journey.Hold your nose! It''s stinkbombs at the ready as Henry''s Purple Hand Gang goes to war with Moody Margaret''s Secret Club. This could get very smelly . . .A hilarious and horrid new Early Reader from bestelling author Francesca Simon, and illustrator Tony Ross.Trade Reviewbrilliant stories told by amazing authors and illustrators. Stuffed full of colour, not too many words per page, they're perfect for children moving from picture books into reading chapter books. - Steve Cole in THE SUN on the Early Reader seriesForget Harry Potter, it's a wicked, spiteful boy who's really firing kids' imaginations - GUARDIAN

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Book SynopsisHugless Douglas and his pals are going camping in Badger''s Wood. They are excited to make their tent into a tent shape, hop into their pyjamas and gather around Reading Rock for story time!But Little Sheep tells a story that gives Douglas the spooks, and he starts to hear some strange noises coming from outside the tent . . . Who could it be?Grab your hot chocolate and marshmallows and join Hugless Douglas and his pals for story time in the great outdoors!''A new Hugless Douglas book is always a cause for celebration.'' - Daily MailThe Hugless Douglas series has sold over 2 million copies in 27 languages worldwide.

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Book SynopsisFollow the Queen and her loyal astronauts on a lightning tour through space in this hilarious picture book story.The Queen''s off to space! Travelling at the speed of light, she goes where no man (or Queen) has gone before. From the Moon to Mars, via Mercury. No planet is left unexplored. But will she be back in time for tea?Praise for The Queen''s Hat, Winner of the Evening Standard Oscar''s Book Prize:Hard to beat. The TimesA wonderful romp of a read. The SunDeserves to become a classic. Parents in TouchSteve Antony is a Waterstones Prize shortlisted author, a Kate Greenaway Medal nominee and the creator of the much-loved Mr Panda books.Collect all four books in The Queen Collection series: (each with a shiny foil cover!)The Queen''s Hat - Winner of the Evening Standard Oscar''s Book PrizeThe Queen''s HandbagThe Queen''s Present The Queen''s Lift-OffTrade ReviewA certain future classic, and without a doubt my absolute new favourite picture book. * LiteraryLoves *This has become a wonderful series - so clever, yet so simple and very funny... A wonderful book, full of humour and such fun to read and to share * Parents In Touch *The Queen's Present is a delightful addition to The Queen Collection, and a suitably warm and fun Christmas read * My Book Corner *The joy of this books is in the detail... each stylish spread contains lots to look and laugh at. Beautifully depicts our traditions and our relationship with the Royal Family... brilliant. * Rhino Reads *I absolutely adored this book... perfectly executed with style and grace... captures London perfectly. This is a story for all generations and a brilliant, British book to boot. It's almost beyond words... every British household needs a copy, whether or not you're George's, William's or Charles's generation. * * * * * * Bookbag *A treat for winter reading * The Bookbag *All carefully drawn in a muted palate of festive red, green and white, the illustrations are mind-boggling -- rows upon rows of tiny green elves line the Sydney Opera House -- and the ending is a timely reminder that love, not consumerism, is the true meaning of Christmas * Belfast Telegraph *An awesome adventure. A wonderful romp of a read that's a great introduction to London, royalty and all that makes Britain great. * The Sun *Hilarious... chuckles aplenty with every turn of the page... wonderful illustrations... if this debut is anything to go by, Steve Antony's creative talent is one to follow with interest. * * * * * Books for Keeps *A witty and stylish celebration of the Queen and the world's best known landmarks * Chronicle Live.co.uk *A festive tale about the Queen's quest to find the perfect presents for her great-grandchildren. Stunning to look at and lots of fun * Scottish Daily Express *A red and green triumph by Steve Antony...Full of elves, reindeer and quirky details to spot The Queen's Present is a welcome and worthy addition to this picture book series. * The Scotsman *A magical tour of the world's most famous landmarks * Eastern Daily Press *As in the book's predecessors, The Queen's Hat and The Queen's Handbag, her majesty is followed by an entourage of tiny loyal subjects, this time green-clad elves, creating a visually striking picture book using only the red and green colours of Christmas * Evening Echo (Cork) *

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Book SynopsisHenry''s mum and dad think his new friend Gary is BAD NEWS. But Dad''s got worse problems at work. If he doesn''t win the charity go-kart race, he might lose his job!There''s trouble ahead, that''s for sure. But nobody reckons on a mystery boy racer who turns up at the track. He''s got a surprise in store for everyone...Other titles in the series: YOUNG ROBIN''S HOOD; A FOOTBALLER CALLED FLIP; THE MAGIC SNEEZE; ALIENS STOLE MY DOG; WHIZZ THE FLEABAG.Trade ReviewThese funny, inventive, high quality stories touch on subjects dear to boys' hearts....Wonderful stuff, with plenty to please both sexes. * TES Primary, Dec 00 *Full of adventure and humour, these are not just for boys, but for all young readers who love aliens, heroes, football and go-karting * The London Parents Guide, Dec 2000 *

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Book SynopsisLittle Rabbit has been invited to a party, but is not at all sure that it will be as fun as everyone says . . . A sweet and funny tale about overcoming anxiety and worries through the power of positive thinking.

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Book SynopsisMeet Agent Weasel: woodland super-spy. Can he save the Winter Whopper Games from disaster? And will there be enough marshmallows for another hot chocolate? Perfect for reading alone or sharing together, for fans of The Bolds and Toto the Ninja Cat.''I always call Agent Weasel in a crisis! I love this brilliant, funny new series.'' Dermot O''LearyIt''s the opening night of the Winter Whopper Games, but all is not well in the United Woodlands. Top animal athletes are disappearing, and there are whispers of a silent snow beast on the prowl. It''s time to call Agent Weasel, woodland super-spy. Can he and his trusty dormouse friend Doorkins find out the secrets of Blanche, their mysterious team-mate? Will Weasel be able to compete for a golden fir cone without falling over his own feet? Will there be enough marshmallows and sprinkles for another hot chocolate? Who knows? But rest assured: even on the darkest and snowiest of niTrade ReviewSlapstick fun that will have youngsters laughing out loud. * Children's Book of the Week, Western Daily Press *Full of East's wit, vibrant storytelling and high-octane illustrations, this funny, frantic series is perfectly pitched for reading alone or to share giggle with all the family! * Lytham St Anne's Express *A page-turning romp of a book. * Books for Keeps *

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Book SynopsisBernie is a dog with a very special talent - he can balance absolutely anything!One day Bernie gets a very unusual request from a furry friend - can Bernie balance this little dog, too? Soon, dogs from all over the park are hurrying up with a woof and a bark to join in Bernie''s brilliant balancing act! But don''t worry, Bernie would NEVER let them all fall . . .A playful, bouncing read-aloud story, full of dogs of all shapes and sizes, from the creator of the Everybunny series!

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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 Synopsis'Riotously funny, with enough expressive drawings and poo jokes to delight Pig fans as well as new readers' - GuardianWhen the lights go off, the PESTS come out! The laugh-out-loud new series from the author/illustrator of the bestselling DIARY OF PIG series and DADDY FARTYPANTS. With amazing GLOW IN THE DARK cover, and a hidden message for young pests to find. Meet Stix, the tiny but heroic mouse who might be living behind your washing machine. But is he naughty enough to join the PESTS? Stix is the size of an egg cup, can jump the width of a dog's bottom, and LOVES cheese. That's because Stix is a mouse. He probably lives behind your washing machine, but you wouldn't know it, because his grandma taught him to always stay out of trouble and NEVER let the humans know he's there. But now Stix has stumbled across P.E.S.T.S. - the Peewit Educatorium for Seriously Terrible Scoundrels - in the basement oTrade ReviewStamp brings the same militant, irreverent energy to this book that she did with her Diary of Pig series. Those with a scatological sense of humour...will find Pests particularly entertaining. -- James Lovegrove * Financial Times *Full of mischief and fun -- Charlotte Heathcote * Sunday Express, S Magazine *a hilarious story, with charming illustrations, disgusting moments and plenty of fun to keep young readers engaged. * The Scotsman *riotously funny * The Guardian *Hilarious and full of warmth... this adventure will appeal to all kinds of readers. * BookTrust *I laughed out loud at this clever book. * The School Librarian *A mountain of mischief and lashings of fun -- Pam Norfolk * Blackpool Gazette *

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Book SynopsisEnter the colourful world of Indigo Wilde and the magical creatures she takes care of ... including some new giants who are causing ENORMOUS trouble! A wonderfully wild series, winner of the Alligator''s Mouth Book Award; for readers of 7+ and fans of Pippi Longstocking and Amelia Fang.Indigo and her brother Quigley live in a house secretly full of magical Creatures. Indigo is never happier than when feeding chocolate to the fire-breathing rabbit or making nests for the colourful hophop birds. She loves a challenge! But when a giant appears in the garden she has an enormous problem on her hands. Can Indigo and Quigley help the giant save his sister, against all the odds? Indigo will need help from all her friends in both the Known and Unknown Worlds to save the day. Gorgeously illustrated in full colour throughout, this is the third in the series - have you read Indigo Wilde and the Creatures at Jellybean Crescent, winner of the Alligator''s

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Book SynopsisA heartwarming and hilarious YA rom-com about a trans boy who concocts the perfect plan to ensure his new school sees his true gender, by joining the secret ''Borrow a Boyfriend Club.'' The first rule: don''t fall in love. Perfect for fans of Only Mostly Devastated and Red White and Royal Blue.Need a prom date? Want to impress your friends? Or make your ex jealous? Just call ...THE BORROW A BOYFRIEND CLUBWhen sixteen-year-old Noah starts at a new school, he has a plan to ensure the students see him as his true gender: join the school''s secretive Borrow a Boyfriend Club, where members rent themselves out to their classmates for dates. The endless accidental slip-ups that plagued him at his last school will be a thing of the past once he joins the club; after all, it has boy right in the title. But he fails the audition. Desperate, he strikes a deal with the club''s prickly president, Asher: he''ll help lead thTrade Review'Charmingly chaotic and keenly observant, with real emotional depth. Page Powars' debut is an absolute joyride.' * Becky Albertalli, author of Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda *'Page Powars is a comedic genius. An unmissable debut' * Sophie Gonzales, co-author of If This Gets Out *'Light-hearted and fun' * Kirkus Reviews *'In vulnerable first-person prose, Powars renders Noah's feelings about his gender identity alongside sweet messaging surrounding the power of friendship and connection' * Publishers Weekly *

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Book Synopsis A funny and poignant comedy about finding your voice, for anyone who has ever dreamed big, from award-winning author and screenwriter Nikesh Shukla.Madhu is 17 and has the weight of the world on her shoulders: her dad is putting pressure on her to apply to university, she misses her estranged sister but contact is strictly forbidden, and she''s pulling in every single shift possible at a pizza place to help support her family. What she really wants, though, is to be a world-famous stand-up comedian ...Just as she''s about to turn her back on this dream a YouTube clip of Madhu goes viral and she is suddenly catapulted into the bright lights of stardom. It''s not long before she catches the attention of a fellow Asian comedy legend who offers her the chance of a lifetime. But the road to comedy glory is not a barrel of laughs - and Madhu''s own struggles with her family and identity soon catch up with her. Can she follow her dreams and stay true to hersel

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Book SynopsisWritten by the author of CBBC''s Scream Street TV series!Crackpot detectives Pouch and Tray are called in to solve the case when Freddie the parrot disappears (he always did have the gift of the gab). Pretty soon they''re on a trail leading to Don Puggoni - otherwise known as the Dogfather...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 SynopsisThis story is part of Reading Champion, a series carefully linked to book bands to encourage independent reading skills, developed with Dr Sue Bodman and Glen Franklin of UCL Institute of Education (IOE)The king wants the perfect crown to wear for his party, but none of them are quite right. The queen might just have a good solution ...Reading Champion offers independent reading books for children to practise and reinforce their developing reading skills.Fantastic, original stories are accompanied by engaging artwork and a reading activity. Each book has been carefully graded so that it can be matched to a child''s reading ability, encouraging reading for pleasure.Perfect for 5-6 year olds or those reading book band blue 4.

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Book SynopsisThis story is part of Reading Champion, a series carefully linked to book bands to encourage independent reading skills, developed with Dr Sue Bodman and Glen Franklin of UCL Institute of Education (IOE)There''s a monster in Milly''s house, and Milly is sure it''s in Mum''s bedroom! She goes to investigate ...Reading Champion offers independent reading books for children to practise and reinforce their developing reading skills.Fantastic, original stories are accompanied by engaging artwork and a reading activity. Each book has been carefully graded so that it can be matched to a child''s reading ability, encouraging reading for pleasure.Perfect for 5-6 year olds or those reading book band blue 4.

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Book SynopsisWith a beautiful cover illustration by Alex T. Smith, creator of the Claude series, The Great Ghost Rescue is a wonderfully spooky young fiction title from the award-winning author of Journey to the River Sea, Eva Ibbotson.'Nobody knew what had gone wrong with Humphrey. Perhaps it was his ectoplasm . . .' Humphrey the Horrible sounds scary, but he's actually a very friendly skeleton, with twinkling eye sockets and jangling finger bones. Humphrey dreams of being ghastly, like his brother - a screaming skull - or terrifying, like his bloodsucking vampire-bat cousins. But when Humphrey discovers an evil plot to exorcise his family, he finally realizes you don't have to be spine-chillingly fearsome to be a hero.Trade ReviewEva Ibbotson weaves a magic like no other. Once enchanted, always enchanted. -- Michael Morpurgo

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Book SynopsisWith a beautiful cover illustration by Alex T. Smith, creator of the Claude series, Not Just A Witch is a wonderfully spooky young fiction title from the award-winning author of Journey to the River Sea, Eva Ibbotson.'I want you to change the next wicked person you see into a tiger,' demanded Lionel. 'A very large tiger.' Heckie is not just a witch - she's an animal witch, who wants to make the world a better place by transforming evil people into harmless animals, using her incredible Toe of Transformation and her awesome Knuckle of Power. But when slimy Lionel Knapsack charms Heckie, her magic begins to take a darker direction. Her friends, including a cheese wizard and a boy called Daniel, must come to the rescue . . .Trade ReviewEva Ibbotson has assumed the mantle of Roald Dahl. * School Librarian *

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Book SynopsisEva Ibbotson was born in Vienna, but when the Nazis came to power her family fled to England and she was sent to boarding school. She became a writer while bringing up her four children, and her bestselling novels have been published around the world. Journey to the River Sea won the Nestlé Gold Award and was shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal, the Whitbread Children's Book of the Year and the Guardian Children's Fiction Prize. Some of her other young fiction titles include The Secret of Platform 13, Dial a Ghost and The Great Ghost Rescue. Eva died peacefully in October 2010 at the age of eighty-five.Trade ReviewThe perfect alternative for Harry Potter fans * Independent on Sunday *This kind of fun will never fail to delight. -- Philip PullmanWildly original and wholly satisfying. -- Amanda Craig * The Guardian *

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Book SynopsisA brilliantly funny story about dodos, a dinosaur, and being VERY careful what you wish for, from the creator of Nine Lives Newton. Jack doesn’t just like dodos, he LOVES them. So when his dearest wish for a pet dodo comes true, surely Jack will be the happiest he’s ever been, EVER.  Unless, of course, Jack wishes for more and more dodos and his new pets cause complete chaos, and no one believes that the dodos did it because dodos don’t exist and everyone blames Jack for everything. Maybe it's time for Jack to think about wishing for something completely different . . . 

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Book Synopsis'Wonderful, funny, magical' Chris Evans‘A sheer delight for all kids both big AND small’ Ruth Jones on The Night I Met Father Christmas  'Bubbles with warmth and mischievous humour . . . irresistible' Alexander Armstrong on The Night I Met Father ChristmasA boy, a dog, and a magical body-swap adventure! Enter a world of wonder in the brand-new classic adventure from top-ten bestselling children's author, Ben Miller.  George has always wondered what it's like to be a dog. One night, a magical mix-up with an enchanted fountain means he swaps places with Midnight, a huge and loveable hound!  Becoming a dog is an amazing adventure, until George uncovers a plan that could threaten Midnight's home. Can the two friends save the day before the clock strikes twelve and leaves them stuck in each other's bodies forever? A magical race-agaTrade Review‘A sheer delight for all kids both big AND small’ -- Ruth Jones on The Night I Met Father Christmas'Bubbles with warmth and mischievous humour . . . irresistible' -- Alexander Armstrong on The Night I Met Father Christmas'Wonderful, funny, magical' -- Chris Evans on How I Became a Dog Called Midnight‘A magical adventure’ -- Sunday Express on The Day I Fell into a Fairytale‘Great for reading aloud’ -- Week Junior on The Day I Fell into a Fairytale'Each of [Ben’s] five books is joyous and thoughtful' -- Red Magazine'Fabulous' -- Sunday Express on The Boy Who Made the World Disappear‘A fire-side gem of a story’ -- Abi Elphinstone on The Night I Met Father Christmas'Enchanting, funny and intriguing in equal measure' -- Philip Ardagh on The Night I Met Father Christmas‘Clever and amusing’ -- Sunday Times on The Night I Met Father Christmas‘A delightful tale for kids both small and big' -- My Weekly on The Night I Met Father Christmas'Utterly festive and charming' -- BookTrust on The Night I Met Father Christmas‘A beautifully illustrated take on the classic tale by comedian Ben Miller’ -- Best Magazine on The Night I Met Father Christmas

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Book SynopsisWhen you're tired of being good, sometimes you gotta be a little bad ... Jesse, Vicks and Mel couldn't be more different. But for all their differences, the girls discover they've got one thing in common - they're desperate to escape. Desperate to get the heck out of Niceville and discover their true 'badass' selves!Trade ReviewA collaboration between three popular YA authors . . . Likeable, with some good characters and a nice sense of place -- Helen Carr * Inis Reading Guide *

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Book SynopsisIt's Billy's school camping trip. His worst nightmare is having to go to the TOILET in the DARK. What if he gets lost in the SCARY WOODS? What if there are WEREWOLVES? Or BEARS? The Mini Monsters decide to brush up on their camping skills and come along too, in case Billy needs their help...

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Book SynopsisBella's new department store is opening today. Bella likes to get things done, but perhaps she needs a lesson in working nicely with her colleagues? This latest addition to the Dinosaur Tales series encourages children to be sensitive to other people's feelings.

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Book SynopsisWhat happens when you have a loose tooth, but it's the Tooth Fairy's first day on the job? How will she find you and where will she leave her gifts? In this installation of Sue Fliess and Simona Sanfilippo's Magical Creatures and Crafts series, a group of children wonder what happens if the Tooth Fairy assigned to collect their most recent lost tooth is brand new to her job. How will she know where to find the tooth? What if she goes to the wrong room? To help the Tooth Fairy remember her training, the children devise a plan that will guarantee her success! With the right supplies—colored paper, crayons or pens, scissors, stickers and glitter, and ribbon—young readers who have a wiggly tooth or have recently lost a baby tooth can also help train their Tooth Fairy by making a sign for their bedroom doors similar to the ones the children make in the book. Fliess’s bouncy read-aloud rhyming text and Sanfilippo’s

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Book SynopsisIt's a VERY hot day. Monster is THIRSTY. He wants a drink! But UH-OH! Where is he going to find one? Hold on tight – Monster is in for another wild ride! This laugh-out-loud picture book is perfect for anyone who’s ever wanted a long, cool drink on a long, hot day. With bold, bright illustrations by the talented Fred Benaglia, it’s a hilarious picture-book treat and ideal for fans of Oi! Frog.Trade ReviewA shouty, colourful picture-book romp, begging to be read aloud with gusto * Guardian on MONSTER! HUNGRY! PHONE! *Vividly imagined... [and] highly entertaining * Julia Eccleshare on MONSTER! HUNGRY! PHONE! *A high-energy read * Observer on MONSTER! HUNGRY! PHONE! *

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Book SynopsisIn this fabulously funny follow-up to the internationally bestselling There Is No Dragon in This Story, the fairytale characters have to deal with a big, scary GIANT. Uh-oh! Who will save the day?

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Book SynopsisPerfect for fans of Pamela Butchart and David Solomons, this is a new, hilarious adventure from the author and illustrator of the bestselling I Swapped My Brother on the Internet. Harry – known as Harry the Hulk to his friends, because he is freakishly tall for an 11-year-old – is desperate for a dog. His mum has said if he can earn 500 Puppy Points then he's allowed to get one. And today she has offered him 50 points if he takes Gran to the Caught Short Awards, where she has won the Lifetime Achievement Award for services to Loo Roll. All Harry has to do is take her for a haircut and then to the ceremony. It should be easy! It should be a piece of cake. But what Harry doesn't know is that Gran has her own agenda in mind, and after a stop at the supermarket for some toffees (the sweet she is BANNED from having!) things go very wrong indeed!Trade ReviewThis cautionary tale will make children yelp in agreement and roll around with laughter, but ultimately leave them appreciating their brother or sister a little bit more. With a simple and engaging style of writing, and plenty of twists and turns in the plot, readers will be hooked from page one. A great story with a likeable lead character and some important lessons * BookTrust on I SWAPPED MY BROTHER ON THE INTERNET *Commercial sibling comedy with oodles of child appeal * The Bookseller on I STOLE MY GENIUS SISTER'S BRAIN *

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Book SynopsisDeliciously silly, with hilarious catchphrases … a great cheer-up book’ Guardian ‘HILARIOUS! Proper laughs!’ Pamela Butchart ______________________________ A laugh-out-loud young fiction series from bestselling author Joanna Nadin, perfect for fans of Horrid Henry. Best friends Stanley and Manjit are part of Class 4B, which head teacher Mrs Bottomley-Blunt says 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 they didn’t LITERALLY mean to let the class stick insects loose in the wilds of the playground. And they really didn't LITERALLY mean to make a massive mess trying to do modern art (which may or may not have involved a mummified cat being stolen). 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 *

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Book SynopsisBig lies mean big trouble for Jay and his mates. Funny and tender, My Big Mouth, CLiPPA Award-winner Steven Camden's brilliant first novel for readers of 8 to 11, is about friendship, storytelling and the price of being cool. Brilliantly illustrated throughout by Chanté Timothy.‘They think I’m cool.’Dom’s face wrinkled up, ‘Who does? Who cares?’But I did. I cared.When Dad leaves, ten-year-old Jay has questions. Where has he gone? Why did he go? When no one can give Jay the answers he needs, he makes up his own stories, setting off a chain reaction that sees regular old Jay go from just another face in the crowd, to the centre of attention. But being the coolest kid in school comes at a cost. And as things spiral out of control, can the most unlikely person help him learn the most important lesson of all?Trade ReviewAn impulsive lie gets out of control in the funny and tender first middle grade novel from YA author and spoken word artist * Bookseller *I get asked a lot what is the book that you'd recommend to Wimpy Kid, David Walliams and Tom Gates fans? My answer is THIS. -- Scott Evans (@TheReaderTeacher) * Twitter *

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Book SynopsisA tousle-headed, snub-nosed, hearty, lovable ball of mischief, William Brown has been harassing his unfortunate family and delighting his hundreds of thousands of admirers since 1922. Part of the Macmillan Collector’s Library; a series of stunning, clothbound, pocket sized classics with gold foiled edges and ribbon markers. These beautiful books make perfect gifts or a treat for any book lover. This edition features original illustrations by Thomas Henry and a foreword by novelist, dramatist and screenwriter Roddy Doyle.Just William is Richmal Crompton’s first book about the incorrigible William Brown. Follow his adventures from getting over a school teacher crush to a failed attempt at baby-sitting, and from throwing a wild party to meeting his faithful dog Jumble in this hilarious collection of stories.Trade ReviewCrompton’s voice is dry, wry and ironic, in a style that you could say echoes Evelyn Waugh’s . . . The Just William stories are, above all, funny -- Michael Deacon * Telegraph *What’s funniest about William is when he’s thumbing his nose at authority -- David Barnett * Independent *Table of ContentsIntroduction - i: Foreword by Sue Townsend Chapter - 1: William Goes to the Pictures Chapter - 2: William the Intruder Chapter - 3: William Below Stairs Chapter - 4: The Fall of the Idol Chapter - 5: The Show Chapter - 6: A Question of Grammar Chapter - 7: ‘Jumble’ Chapter - 8: The Outlaws Chapter - 9: William and White Satin Chapter - 10: William’s New Year’s Day Chapter - 11: The Best-laid Plans Chapter - 12: William Joins the Band of Hope

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Book SynopsisSaffy's Angel was the winner of the 2002 Whitbread Award and is the first novel in Hilary McKay's hilarious Casson Family series.After Saffron discovers that she's adopted, life is never quite the same. Her artistic parents and doting siblings adore her, but Saffy wants a piece of her past. So when her grandfather bequests her a stone angel – a relic from the childhood she never knew – Saffy knows she has to find it. Realizing that Siena holds the key, she stows away on a car trip to Italy.The rest of the family are engaged in their own wacky projects: Caddy, a hopeless student, is revising for her A levels and desperately trying to pass her driving test. Indigo, the only boy in the Casson family, is determined to rid himself of his fear of heights. And the youngest, Rose, a budding artist, has a knack for baiting her pompous dad, with entertaining results . . .Follow the family's adventures in the rest of the beloved series: Indigo's Star, Permanent Rose, Caddy Ever After, Forever Rose and Caddy's World.Trade ReviewThis book truly is a masterpiece. * Guardian *Marvellous * The Sunday Telegraph *I love this book. I still wish I'd written it -- Sally Nichols, Books for KeepsIf there is one single writer whose style and voice I wish I could capture and make mine, it's Hilary McKay -- Elizabeth Wein, author of Code Name VerityA funny, exuberant story * Carousel *A real feel-good novel, McKay treats us once again to one of her brilliantly characterised families. This is a really lovely book * The Bookseller *A funny and perceptive novel . . . a real delight to read * The Parents' Guide *A tale that is both funny and touching * Guardian *Saffy’s Angel is a delight from start to finish . . . with characters you want to stay with forever. Warm, beautifully crafted and always original, it’s pure fun – a book to recommend without hesitation -- The Whitbread judges, as reported in The Daily Mail

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Book SynopsisJoin everyone's favourite ladybird in this fantastically funny farmyard caper from the stellar picture book partnership of Julia Donaldson and Lydia Monks, creators of What the Ladybird Heard - includes an audio CD of the story read by Alexander Armstrong.Those crafty robbers Hefty Hugh and Lanky Len are out of jail, and they're heading back to the farm with another cunning plan to cause trouble. They've been stealing eggs from the fat red hen, but now they're setting their sights higher and are planning to steal the fat red hen herself! Fortunately the quiet, clever ladybird is on their trail, and she and her farm animal friends have a plan of their own. With slapstick action, animal noises and a mysterious Snuggly Snerd bird, What the Ladybird Heard Next is a story you'll be reading over and over again. This paperback and CD edition includes an audio CD of the story for lots of readalong fun.Enjoy more adventures wi

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Book SynopsisA hilarious Christmas story, Fly, Fly, Fly Your Sleigh is full of funny rhymes, inspired by the much-loved song Row, Row, Row Your Boat. From John Hay and Garry Parsons, illustrator of the bestselling Dinosaur That Pooped series. With a shiny gold cover to add some Christmas bling!Perfect for sharing at Christmas, young children will love joining in and singing along. They can even make up their own funny and cheeky Christmas rhymes! It’s Christmas Eve, and in Santa’s workshop all is not well. The elves are hard at work but oh no! – this year Santa's feeling fed up and he doesn't want to deliver the presents. The elves are determined to cheer Santa up with some funny songs. Starting with Row, Row, Row Your Boat… and moving on to verses such as Hang, Hang, Hang Your Socks… (but please wash them first as they are stinky!), and Peel, Peel, Peel the Sprouts…(but please control your bum after eating them!) Can they get Santa laughing, and onto his sleigh in time?

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Book SynopsisJoin Tunde on his next superpowered mission in The Boy with Wings: Clash of the Superkids, a hilarious, action packed story from Lenny Henry, illustrated throughout by Keenon Ferrell.Wings? Check.A super-cool, super-secret past? Check.An impossible mission to save the world from a super evil enemy? Check.When Tunde’s parents take him to a top-secret testing facility called The Complex, he’s nervous about meeting others like him who have super powers. But trying to make new friends is the least of his worries. There’s something much scarier going on. And it’s going take more than just the boy with wings to stop it . . . Now that flight isn’t an option, the only choice is to fight.Trade ReviewThis book is as laugh-out-loud funny as you’d expect, but it’s also packed with super-charged thrills, characters you really care about and a whole lot of heart. I think The Boy With Wings is the start of something really special. -- Nadia Shireen - Author of Grimwood, on The Boy With WingsHilarious and heartfelt ... interwoven with messages about family, friendship, courage and belonging * The Guardian on The Boy With Wings *... Always looking for genuinely laugh out loud funny books and [The Boy with Wings] 100% delivered. THANK YOU. -- Louie Stowell, author of Loki: A Bad God's Guide to Being Good

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Book SynopsisA laugh-out-loud Christmas cracker of a story, There Was a Young Reindeer who Swallowed a Present from Kaye Baillie and award-winning illustrator Diane Ewen is the perfect festive gift!Everyone's heard about the old lady who swallowed a fly, but now it’s time to meet a little reindeer who, on the most important night of the year (Christmas Eve!), swallows a present. And he doesn't stop there! Soon he's gobbled down an elf, a bauble, a tree . . . what will he swallow next?A funny, cumulative rhyming story children will love, packed with elves, stockings, a very full sleigh full of gifts and, of course, Santa Claus! And one very hungry little reindeer — keep an eye on the presents under your tree!

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Book SynopsisWilliam Brown is back in this 100th anniversary edition of More William, featuring fourteen funny, classic Just William adventures by Richmal Crompton - updated for a new generation of readers. This edition featurres timeless original artwork from Thomas Henry, and an introduction by Martin Jarvis.'William is as fresh and funny as ever' - Chris Riddell'Gloriously funny' - Sue Townsend, author of The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13 3/4There is only one William. This tousle-headed, snub-nosed, hearty, lovable ball of mischief has been harassing his unfortunate family and delighting his hundreds of thousands of admirers since 1922.William Brown and the Outlaws are up to their old tricks with more hilarious mischief, mayhem and muddles. When Aunt Lucy says that 'a busy day is a happy day', William does his best to keep himself very busy indeed. Unfortunately, not everyone appreciates his efforts.Including fourteen fantastic stories, More William is as funny as ever. This delightful children's classic features the original inside illustrations by Thomas Henry.Enjoy more of William's adventures in Just William, William Again, William the Outlaw and William at Christmas.Trade ReviewWhat’s funniest about William is when he’s thumbing his nose at authority * Independent *Crompton’s voice is dry, wry and ironic, in a style that you could say echoes Evelyn Waugh’s . . . The Just William stories are, above all, funny * Telegraph *Table of ContentsIntroduction - i: Foreword by Martin Jarvis Chapter - 1: A Busy Day Chapter - 2: Rice-mould Chapter - 3: William’s Burglar Chapter - 4: The Knight at Arms Chapter - 5: William’s Hobby Chapter - 6: The Rivals Chapter - 7: The Ghost Chapter - 8: The May King Chapter - 9: The Revenge Chapter - 10: The Helper Chapter - 11: William and the Smuggler Chapter - 12: The Reform of William Chapter - 13: William and the Ancient Souls Chapter - 14: William’s Christmas Eve

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Book SynopsisFrom Mum’s swirly-whirly tummy-button tickles to Dad’s great-big side-grabbers . . . there’s no escaping tickles in this house!From award-winning writer Thomas Taylor and critically-acclaimed illustrator Penny Dann comes an irresistibly warm and playful story all about fun and family – Too Many Tickles! Chase about the house with two little children as they dodge, dash, wriggle and giggle with their tickling parents and grandparents! But when all the silliness becomes a bit too much, will the kids get their carers back with a few tickles of their own?With lovingly-drawn illustrations and tongue-twisting text, this book is perfect for storytime with lively little ones.Trade ReviewA fun-packed book which is a joyous celebration of a happy family life. * Parents in Touch *

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Book SynopsisFrom the bestselling author of Red, White and Royal Blue and One Last Stop comes a debut YA romantic comedy - perfect for fans of Heartstopper! Fierce, funny, and frank, Casey McQuiston’s I Kissed Shara Wheeler is about breaking the rules, getting messy, and finding love in unexpected places.'[A] razor-sharp, intensely compassionate, subversive, sweet, electrifyingly romantic knockout of a book.' – Becky Albertalli, author of Simon vs the Homo Sapiens AgendaA month before graduating from Willowgrove Christian Academy, the principal’s perfect daughter, prom queen Shara Wheeler, kisses Chloe Green and vanishes.On a furious hunt for answers, Chloe discovers she’s not the only one Shara kissed. There’s also Smith, Shara’s long-time sweetheart, and Rory, Shara’s bad-boy neighbour with a crush. Thrown into an unlikely alliance, Chloe, Smith and Rory follow Shara’s trail of annoyingly cryptic clues, and Chloe starts to suspect that there might be more to this small town – and to Shara – than she thought.Trade ReviewRaise your hand if you've been personally victimised by this funny, weird, razor-sharp, intensely compassionate, subversive, sweet, electrifyingly romantic knockout of a book. Casey freaking McQuiston, you've done it again.' -- Becky Albertalli, bestselling author of Simon vs the Homo Sapiens AgendaProse as fizzy and acid-sweet as lemonade on a hot summer day . . . I Kissed Shara Wheeler is an unfettered joy to read. * The New York Times *One of the biggest highlights of 2022 is Casey McQuiston making their YA debut with I Kissed Shara Wheeler. The fast-paced rom-com proves the author can effortlessly move between adult and YA novels without missing a beat * Pop Sugar *Funny, sharp, romantic - gives you everything you want. I need to know what happens next to all these sweet queer bbs. -- Laura Kay, author of The SplitMcQuiston has done it again . . . A YA novel with a swoon-worthy romance readers have come to expect from their first two triumphant works * USA Today *Crisp writing, humorous asides, and fully fleshed characters and relationships – many queer – keep things fresh, leading to a genuinely hopeful ending that centers themes of authenticity and autonomy. * Publishers Weekly *

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Book SynopsisIn this instalment in the hilarious illustrated children's series, Rafe feels like a caged lion at his summer job at the zoo - until a real lion desperately needs his help.Rafe is days away from sweet summer freedom - but his bad grades have other plans for him. He can't fail a summer job, right?Working in a zoo sounds great but Rafe is stuck polishing his boss's car, digging oven pits and scrubbing . . . toilets.He's destined for the failed jobs Hall of Fame until an encounter with an endangered lion puts his wildlife knowledge to the test. This time, it's more than just his grades on the line.

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