Children’s / Teenage fiction: Magical realism / Magical fantasy

Book SynopsisAn accidental luggage swap with a witch conjures a series of mishaps for Zahra in this charming magical adventure from acclaimed children’s author Aisha Bushby When Zahra accidentally swaps suitcases with a witch, it’s the beginning of a whole series of magical mishaps. Her feet take on a dancing life of their own when she puts on a pair of enchanted boots, while her first flying adventure in a charmed cloak nearly ends in disaster! But it’s not all bad. She learns a spell that can transform her dad’s worst cooking into a gourmet delight and makes a new best friend in the form of a talking cat. When she finds the witch again, will Zahra even want to get her own suitcase back?! A charming magical adventure from acclaimed children’s author Aisha Bushby.Trade Review"This humorous, light-hearted tale of magic and friendship explores the benefits of facing fears and overcoming insecurities." – BookTrust "A sweet, captivating story with a sprinkle of magic and dusting of fun … Charmed the pants off us." – Mini Travellers, blog "There's fun coming down the line and you wouldn’t want to miss the ride! … Packed with fun and fantasy, all brought to vibrant life by Muce’s beautiful artwork … top-class storytelling with an important message about finding your confidence gently wrapped inside. Truly spellbinding!" – Book-marked, blog

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Book SynopsisNew girl Hattie hopes a scarecrow will protect her den at school, but she soon realises she can’t control him … A darkly comic tale from acclaimed author Nicola Skinner. When lonely Hattie feels out of place at her new school, she creates a scarecrow – Crow. Hattie wants him to guard the den she finds in the playground, the only place she feels happy and comfortable. Poor Crow really just wants to have fun with the other children, but he takes his job for Hattie very seriously and his behaviour starts to get scarier and scarier. Will Hattie realise that Crow is ruining her chance to make new friends before it’s too late?Trade Review"A darkly comic tale about a girl's anxiety over starting a new school" – The Times Children's Books of the Year "A short and slightly creepy story about being careful what you wish for, with added Frankenstein vibes! A great story to share with those starting a new school or struggling to fit in." – Midlands Creative Learning Services "Nicola Skinner's brilliant humour brings the scarecrow to life which causes all sorts of problems for Hattie … a sweet story about loneliness and making friends." – The School Librarian "Darkly humorous, emotionally intelligent and astutely aware supernatural schoolyard story … Crow’s deliciously dark personality serves up some fabulously funny moments with that slight macabre edge … will go down very well with any child who is experiencing upheaval in their own lives." – A Word About Books, Blog

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Book SynopsisLucy Strange interweaves the Industrial Revolution with gripping Greek mythology in this atmospheric tale, featuring artwork from acclaimed illustrator Pam Smy. Money is scarce in George’s family and so at the age of nine he has to join his father underground, hewing coal in the local mine. It’s far from the dreams George had of continuing his education, and it’s also a dangerous way to earn a living that has already claimed the life of his dad’s older brother. Not long after he starts work, a summer storm leads to flooding in the mine. Trapped down in the dark, George spots a shadowy figure that seems to be telling George to follow him. Can a ghost from the past lead him back to safety, or will George meet the same fate as his long-lost uncle?Trade Review"Superb, an eerie weaving of history and mythology, in the hollow, haunted world of not-so-long-ago." – Hilary McKay “A tense and atmospheric story … This gripping and heartfelt book confronts the reality of child labour during the Industrial Revolution, and weaves history and mythology together to great effect." – Juno "Packed with peril, immersive descriptions and atmospheric artwork that brings the historical period to life, this heart-racing story comes to a satisfying ending when the near-tragedy leads to a change in George’s landscape, and a seam of opportunity opens up in a future that appeared to be set in stone." – My Book Corner, Blog

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Book SynopsisCome on a magical journey through the world of imagination in this wonderful storybook

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Book SynopsisI'm sure you've heard of fairies. You've probably heard of pixies too. But maybe you thought they only existed in stories.Alice is fed up. Her family have moved to the countryside and there are no adventures to be found at all. Or so she thinks...But everything changes when she meets seven-year-old Max who shares the most wonderful secret. At the bottom of his garden is an oak tree with a tiny door. And through that tiny door live three pixies.The pixies are relieved to meet Alice – as they need her help. Their queen has been frozen by the mean fairies and only the bravest adventurers can come to her rescue and save the day.A delightful new series for 6+ in the tradition of The Magic Faraway Tree.

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Book SynopsisBook Band: Grey, ideal for ages 8+ A hilarious folklore-inspired adventure featuring two BMX-riding heroines by award-winning author Stephen Davies. Daisy and Liberty are two bored sisters living in The-Middle-of-Nowhere, Dartmoor. The most adventure they ever have is riding their BMX bikes around the local abandoned quarry, until one day they come across a mysterious creature, and their world turns upside down! This magical adventure is immersed in local Dartmoor legend, and features black-and-white illustrations by Marta Dorado. The Bloomsbury Readers series is packed with book-banded stories to get children reading independently in Key Stage 2 by award-winning authors like double Carnegie Medal winner Geraldine McCaughrean and Waterstones Prize winner Patrice Lawrence. With engaging illustrations and online guided reading notes written by the Centre for Literacy in Primary Education (CLPE), this series is ideal for home and school. For more information visit www.bloomsburyreaders.com. 'Any list that brings together such a quality line up of authors is going to be welcomed … Bloomsbury Readers are aimed squarely at children in Key Stage 2 and designed to support them as they start reading independently and while they continue to gain confidence and understanding.' Books for KeepsTrade ReviewPRAISE FOR BLOOMSBURY READERS … any list that brings together such a quality line up of authors is going to be welcomed … Bloomsbury Readers are aimed squarely at children in Key Stage 2 and designed to support them as they start reading independently and while they continue to gain confidence and understanding -- Andrea Reece * Books for Keeps *

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Book SynopsisWhat do you do if the family business is magic and you’re all fingers and thumbs? If your family are magicians and builders of tricks and illusions for other magicians and you can’t even pull a rabbit from a hat, do you turn your back on magic and walk away as far away from Abracadabra Street as you can…or do you try and overcome the hand you’re dealt? This is the question on Benjamin Blackstone’s mind. He has hope, however, in the form of a book his great grandfather bought about magic, a Victorian popup book of a street on which a long line of magic shops sat. This is called Abracadabra Street. The book is said to be truly magical in some way – and young Benjamin wants to get his hands on it. But this book is no toy to be played with which Benjamin soon finds out as he discovers the book after a long search locked in a trunk and discovers a living, breathing magical street! And that’s before a mysterious magician appears seemingly from inside the book. Benjamin knows it must be all smoke and mirrors, but he finds his own magic unlocked inside his head as he becomes obsessed to know how the book works and where the magician is really coming from. Because real magic isn’t real…right?

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Book SynopsisHaving been rescued from certain death by a dragon, Tan’s quiet life is turned upside down when he begins travelling with Alton, the librarian. The man is so much more than just someone who reads dusty old books – he has magic at his fingertips! As his apprentice, Tan finds he has a great deal to learn in a very short period of time. With the aid of a young wolf-cat, they set off to try to stem the evil that is sweeping across the land. An unexpected coup in the castle means that Autumn, Tan’s friend, must flee with her pony in the dark of the night to avoid capture. She has never been out of the village before. Shining Leaves, an acorn loving dragon, has agreed to guide her, but she will face many trials and danger during her journey to try and catch up with Tan and Alton.

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Book SynopsisAfter an entirely uneventful summer, the arrival of helicopters full of soldiers, an unusual looking black train and a curious burst of light during a storm, leads twelve year old Arthur to discover that he is suddenly able to talk to his ever so sarcastic cat. The retrieval of a little black box, ends in them being taken to a restricted government facility where they not only discover the existence of a secret global project to build a space ship based on artefacts and plans retrieved from a meteorite, but that Arthur and his cat are the only ones who are able to make it all work. In a drastic turn of events the mission is forced to launch. Their arrival at their destination in the far reaches of the universe appears to go unnoticed, and euphoria quickly turns to trepidation. Forced to take matters into their own hands, a small party is sent down to the planet's surface to try to make contact. But no sooner have they landed they learn that their ship has been captured and their crew taken hostage, including Arthur's father. On the run, they make their first alien contact with the planet’s resistance, where it transpires that they have arrived on the eve of the final battle of a 100 year war against an evil empire. Called upon to join the resistance efforts, they are thrown into the thick of the fighting, on a world where wars are fought with giant robots, strike ships and levitating tanks. With victory secured, a daring mission is devised to rescue the captured crew. Injured, Arthur wakes to find that his father is still missing, and he is more determined than ever to get him back.

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Book SynopsisWelcome to the magical world of unseen things, as you enter these pages be prepared to go on a very exciting journey… Annativa Cairry lives with her family in the turret at Starlight Manor. She and her best friend, Mr Wiggles, enjoy many adventures together until one day, she decides to explore alone. After a strange encounter, she finds herself in a very unusual place and some serious trouble! It’s going to take the courage of a very brave and seemingly insignificant creature to help her to find herself and her very special gift. Step into a world of beauty and mystery, of magic and music, and meet some very interesting creatures along the way! Annativa Cairry and the Thieving Imp is the first in a series of Annativa's adventures, each one beautifully illustrated in a style unique to the story...

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Book Synopsis“Who amongst the most learned men and women in the world understands elf magic, or even knows that it exists?” Hob doesn’t know what will happen when an elf light is thrown into goblin fire, but he must risk it if he’s to have any chance of helping his friends. Hob’s quest brings him into collision with forces of opposition. It will be a life changing adventure, but he can reach his goal only by staying true to himself. This is a story of loyalty, courage, and kindness, which also shows the importance of caring for the environment and staying focused even when circumstances are difficult. For those who are, or ever have been, eight years old.

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Book SynopsisIn a lovely manor house in West Sussex, living with her parents and grandparents, exists a girl named Tiger. Tiger is autistic and thinks differently to everyone else and didn’t in fact speak until she was seven, but she is a talented painter and adores tigers (and in fact all animals). Although the manor house is her entire world, her imagination opens everything up so she can even believe she can see the Taj Mahal from her attic bedroom window. Her parents love her – even though they wish she might draw on paper rather than the walls! – but even so, Tiger spends a lot of her days alone in the house and in the garden. And it’s there where Tiger’s world will change forever… One night, she paints a raggedy-looking tiger onto an old red brick garden wall. Under the blue moon, the tiger comes shockingly to life. Immediately bonded, Tiger knows in her soul she has found her first friend and willingly abandons her normal life for an adventure of the wild kind!

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Book SynopsisMeet Egg. Egg is not like any other egg you've ever seen. Egg is gold and white, and can fly and talk and be seen by children and special grownups. It lives in a place of stillness and silence until one day a girl’s hand suddenly picks it up and sticks it in her bedroom. Egg is amazed. What is this place? The hand belongs to Hester, and she and her younger brother, Sam, live on a volcanic island. Slowly, Egg realises it has to help them leave their unhappy house, and one night leads them down to a beautiful yacht called Waterwitch. It’s crewed by children of all ages who’ve also left home, and captained by a woman called the Skipper. You might think the adventures end there...but it's here where they really begin. From a stormy ocean to a faraway desert, Egg helps a lost girl called Raahi and a brave girl called Sana and learns that finding can be losing and losing can be finding, and that there are amazing things hiding in the middle of nowhere. For readers looking to get whisked into a magical story akin to the classics, Egg is perfect for 7 - 9 year-olds. Come aboard – adventure awaits!

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Book SynopsisThere are creatures that live on the very edges of our imagination. In woodland, over sea, on the highest peaks of the world, and in the darkest caves, these mythological beasts, fierce monsters and helpful spirits have inspired countless stories, poems, and films. This book will tell you where these creatures dwell, how to spot one, and how to keep yourself safe.Humorously written by bestselling author Maz Evans and sumptuously illustrated by Hans Christian Andersen Award-winning artist Robert Inpgen, this is the perfect book for fans of myth and magic.Table of ContentsFeatures 28 magical and mythical creatures and monsters from all over the world: Unicorn; griffin; dragon; centaur; harpy; manticore; sphinx, merfolk; chimera; phoenix, basilisk; gurrangatch; werewolf; roc; witch; yeti giant; faun; wendigo; Baba Yaga; Banshee; Charon; kraken; valkyrie; ifrit.

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Book SynopsisSolve puzzles, complete activities and decorate awesome pictures in this activity book that includes 1001 stickers, and is based on the upcoming Disney film, Encanto

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Book SynopsisUnwrap a new Princess storybook every day in the run up to Christmas in this fantastic advent calendar format

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Book SynopsisCelebrate 100 years of Disney with this magical colouring collection, featuring Disney and Pixar's most memorable moments

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Book SynopsisDiscover a world of adventure under the sea in this retelling of Disney's live-action film, The Little Mermaid

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Book SynopsisEye-catching new design for an established, successful fiction range.

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Book SynopsisSHORTLISTED FOR THE BRANFORD BOASE AWARD NOMINATED FOR THE 2022 CILIP CARNEGIE MEDAL Set in the 17th century, a breathtaking debut, and a potential prize-winner, about the power of women, witchcraft, fury, revenge and the ties that bind us. After witnessing the brutal murder of her mother by witch-hunters, Evey vows to avenge her and track down the killers. Fury burns in her bright and strong. But she has promised her mother that she will keep Dill, her little sister, safe. As the lust for blood and retribution rises to fever pitch, will Evey keep true to the bonds of sisterhood and to the magick that is her destiny? Praise for Witch: 'A story that captures sibling rivalry so perfectly and tells its tale so beautifully I didn't want it to finish' JASBINDER BILAN 'Raw, mystical and beautifully told. A striking debut' KIRSTY APPLEBAUM 'An assured debut of sisterhood and fury' THE BOOKSELLER 'A book filled with enchantment, in every sense. Dark, exciting and pacy, Witch brilliantly balances magic and realism' ANTHONY MCGOWAN, author of Carnegie-winning LARK 'There is real magic here, though what leaps off the page is the creepy atmosphere and the raw emotion of a grieving, raging girl... Perfect reading for a dark, stormy night' IRISH TIMES WEEKENDTrade ReviewEvey is a marvellous, complex, flawed heroine... Hawkins is a master of raising and re-raising the stakes... The tale builds to a climax of incredible, cinematic imagery... A fantastic first outing' -- Cory Doctorow, author of Surface AttackRaw, mystical and beautifully told, Witch is the story of a young woman's self-discovery in a hostile world. A striking debut -- Kirsty Applebaum, author of Waterstone's shortlisted The MiddlerWitch is a rare thing, a book both brilliant and original, as strange and dark as it is beautiful. A tale of revenge set in war-ravaged landscape, ruled by fear and superstition; of redemption and love between two sisters; of the corrupting power of 'Magick.' All this. And more besides -- Chris Vick, author of CILIP Carnegie-shortlisted Girl Boy SeaI couldn't stop reading this 5-star story for teens, full of witchcraft, revenge and the power of women -- Mel Darbon, author of Rosie Loves Jack.Bold, original, powerful story-telling. This story of fierce love, anger and revenge, war and witch hunts, is tense and bloody and compelling -- Julia Green, author of The House of LightI felt its dark jewelled cloak fall about my shoulders and magic me to the time of witch-craft. A story that captures sibling rivalry so perfectly and tells its tale so beautifully I didn't want it to finish -- Jasbinder Bilan, author of the Costa-winning Asha and the Spirit BirdAn assured debut of sisterhood and fury * The Bookseller *Dark, spooky, and with beautiful lyrical prose, this is the ideal book to curl up with as the nights get darker and colder in the run up to Halloween * BookTrust *A book filled with enchantment, in every sense. Dark, exciting and pacy, Witch brilliantly balances magic and realism -- Anthony McGowan, author of CILIP Carnegie Medal winner LarkThere is real magic here, though what leaps off the page is the creepy atmosphere and the raw emotion of a grieving, raging girl... Perfect reading for a dark, stormy night' * Irish Times Weekend *I loved it. I loved how atmospheric it was, I loved the fierce loyalty of Evey and Dill, I loved how I could smell the weather on every page -- Emma Kennedy, author of the Wilma Tenderfoot seriesA gobble-it-up fiery and intense yet thoughtful debut novel about family, betrayal, and witchcraft. Opening the pathway to a fabulous historical fantasy series this calls out as a must-read for young adults... Witch is a read that fair on crackles with energy, it also encourages thoughts to both consider and soar' * LoveReading *No avid reader who is old enough should miss this wonderful writing from a debut writer. When the power of language and the power of story meld so thrillingly together, they make something very special, and important – witching magic -- Magic Fiction Since PotterFrom the first page, my heart was hooked by this dark and twisty tale of old magic, love and revenge. The story thunders like a force of nature -- Julie Pike, author of The Last Spell BreatherWitch grips you in its spell from first page to last. It's a stunningly written story of loss and love, of eerie magic, high adventure, and the ties that keep us strong in darkness and bring us safely home. As fierce, beautiful and thrilling as a bird of prey in flight -- Jonathan Stroud, author of the Lockwood & Co. seriesBe enchanted by this dark, wintery and lyrical story. A powerful debut that will leave you gasping for the breath that you have held whilst reading it! A book packed with history, witchcraft, power and love * Armadillo *Hawkins' descriptive power is considerable * Financial Times *[An] adventure story where good triumphs over evil. The more perceptive and mature reader may well see echoes of the battle between patriarchy and the traditional ways of healing which were mostly the domain of trusted womenfolk. The lyrical prose and the attempt at an appropriate historical idiom are attractive * The School Librarian *Finbar Hawkins's debut novel is notionally a young adult title, but grown-ups will find it darkly satisfying – a brilliantly paced and compellingly atmospheric story of society's need to find victims, how fear spawns mania and how the 'other' is persecuted. Should sound familiar in 2020 * Time Out *Civil war rages and witches have become pawns in a plot to oust the king. When her mother is killed by a mob Evey vows to avenge her in this assured debut of sisterhood and fury, well reviewed in hardback -- Fiona Noble, The Bookseller

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Book SynopsisWhen Mr Benn visits the little fancy dress shop, he enters a fantastical world of adventure as if by magic... In this story, a red suit of armour catches Mr Benn's eye, and when he tries it on he finds himself transported to a land full of castles, dungeons and dragons! Collect all four Mr Benn classics in their 50th anniversary paperback editions! Mr Benn Red Knight Mr Benn Big Top Mr Benn Big Game Mr Benn 123456789 Celebrate 50 years of the iconic BBC TV series with the original Mr Benn picture books! Voted 3rd in a BBC poll of 25 to 45 year olds of all-time favourite children's shows Voted 6th in Channel 4's poll of the 100 greatest kid's TV shows Voted 10th most famous time-traveller by THE TIMES '...the very name is enough to induce a warm glow of childish bliss...' TELEGRAPHTrade Review"Some of the spreads of Mr Benn, in full armour, leading the king and his knights out to bring home the dragon would fit right in to the Bayeux Tapestry, and are wonders of movement, humour, detail and perspective. A must-have picture book" -- Andrea Reece * LoveReading4Kids *

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Book SynopsisWhen Mr Benn visits the little fancy dress shop, he enters a fantastical world of adventure as if by magic. This time, Mr Benn spots a khaki outfit he'd like to try. As soon as he puts it on, he finds himself transported to a mysterious jungle full of snakes, elephants, and hunters... Collect all four Mr Benn classics in their 50th anniversary paperback editions! Mr Benn Red Knight Mr Benn Big Top Mr Benn Big Game Mr Benn 123456789 Celebrate 50 years of the iconic BBC TV series with the original Mr Benn picture books! Voted 3rd in a BBC poll of 25 to 45 year olds of all-time favourite children's shows Voted 6th in Channel 4's poll of the 100 greatest kid's TV shows Voted 10th most famous time-traveller by THE TIMES '...the very name is enough to induce a warm glow of childish bliss...' TELEGRAPHTrade Review"Fans of Elmer will love this earlier introduction to some familiar loveable elephants" -- Julia Eccleshare * LoveReading4Kids *

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Book SynopsisLonglisted for the Carnegie Medal for Writing Rabbit and his mum have moved to the coast to run a small caravan park. Rabbit has been struggling since he saw his father die – he finds it hard to speak. When he befriends a local boy, Joe, Rabbit begins to feel better – but he keeps having strange dreams of a frightened white horse. Hunting for the animal, the two boys stumble across something much more dangerous: a man being held hostage by a criminal gang. Their discovery will set them on a dangerous path that will risk everything Rabbit holds dear…Trade Review"Powerful… this is a writer following in the footsteps of writers such as Westall, Brooks and Almond" * Books for Keeps *"The trauma of grief, the brutality of bullies, the magical realness of dreams, and the power of nature — this poetic triumph reveals we’re stronger than we think... With an urgent inferno of a climax suffused in magic and nature, the best of humanity glints through destructive flames to create a powerfully memorable story... Running with Horses brims with truths that light the way and warm the heart" * LoveReading4Kids *

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Book SynopsisFull of heart, drama and beauty, this sweeping fantasy inspired by ancient folklore will draw you into a secret world within Britain’s waterways. 'This book is a gift of rare imagination and luminous writing. A classic in the making’ KATYA BALEN ‘I loved this book so much. It feels like a contemporary classic’ ALICE WINN ‘Bishop’s writing transforms Britain into a magical network of rivers, channels and lochs that will fill you with wonder’ ANN SEI LIN Kelda has always protected her little sister Isla from danger on the rivers, and from the suspicions of their community. For Isla cannot breathe underwater – and so her very existence is forbidden by silvermen’s Lore. Now the rivers of England are growing sick: monstrous creatures are awakening and a fierce torrent of blame falls upon Kelda’s family. When betrayal comes, the sisters escape on a desperate journey upstream. Joining forces with a mysterious boy, Kelda discovers the darkest depths of her kind’s secret history. But to save both her sister and the very life of Britain’s waterways, Kelda will have to make a sacrifice – one that will change her life forever. Cover art by Thy BuiTrade Review"Timely in its theme of protecting our rivers and streams, it also has the timeless power and craftsmanship of a classic" -- Nicolette Jones * The Sunday Times, Book of the Week *"This book is a gift of rare imagination and luminous writing. I haven’t read something so original and immersive in a long time. On Silver Tides is a classic in the making and I loved every word" -- Katya Balen"Sure to be a future classic... A brilliant fantasy with folklore and mythological monsters woven into the narrative. Fans of Frances Hardinge and Katherine Rundell's Impossible Creatures will adore On Silver Tides" * The Bookseller, Book of the Month February 2024 *"I loved this book so much. It feels to me like a contemporary classic: thoughtful, literary, with clear and gorgeous prose, yet urgent and relevant. It touches painlessly and obliquely on our own troubled relationship with the environment, but above all it’s a great story with vivid, complex and lovable characters. The world-building reminded me of Susanna Clarke in its rich and playful inventiveness. I absolutely loved it and can’t wait to read more by Sylvia Bishop!" -- Alice Winn"On Silver Tides is a beautifully constructed book about the love of family and the importance of embracing what we don't understand. I was with Kelda through every triumph and betrayal, every hurt and heartbreak. Bishop's writing transforms Britain into a magical network of rivers, channels and lochs that will fill you with wonder" -- Ann Sei Lin

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Book SynopsisIt''s Christmas Eve at the North Pole, but everything is far from ready... The elves in the workshop are frantic, the reindeer are on strike and to top it all off, the sleigh has broken down. Santa is in despair Christmas will be ruined! Suddenly a shimmering, white creature with a magical horn appears... will this mystery unicorn be able to save the day?

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Book SynopsisWhen Maya and her family move to the countryside, strange things start to happen at night. Who is it that keeps tidying the house after everyone has gone to bed? While her parents don’t believe her, Maya knows that there is a mysterious creature living in their new home. This unwanted resident gets very upset when it realizes it won’t be getting the bowl of porridge it expects to receive in exchange for doing the housekeeping. As the furious creature wreaks havoc on the household, will Maya and her family find a way to resolve this situation, or will they have to leave their new home? A delightful story of magic and fantasy, Che Golden’s The Porridge Plot is also a touching portrayal of family life, which emphasizes the importance of love and togetherness.Trade ReviewThe Porridge Plot goes beyond the usual magical fairy story as it deals with themes of family relationships, which I found very touching. -- Elisabetta Minervini, Publisher

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Book SynopsisA modern classic set against the backdrop of the London Underground, this is a timeless story of friendship, family and noticing the little things in life. When eleven-year-old Edie Winter finds a mysterious box on the London Underground, she goes straight to take it to her father, an employee of the London Underground Lost Property Office. But on her way, Edie is amazed to discover that the box is home to a family of Flits - tiny winged people. And these Flits - Impy, Speckle and Nid - need Edie's help. Not only do they need supplies (rice crispies, sugar sprinkles, digestive biscuits and raisins) and someone to look after them, but their brother Jot has run away and they need Edie's help to find him.With delightful black-and-white illustrations by animator, cartoonist and illustrator Joe Berger.Perfect for fans of THE BORROWERS, HARKLIGHTS and MRS PEPPERPOT.Trade ReviewA charming story in the tradition of The Borrowers about little flying people, visible to only children, who live in the Underground and are found by a rather unhappy 11 year-old girl. * Sunday Times *Super detail, great characters and a full-on finale with a dastardly villain. Top fun! * Lesley Parr, author of The Valley of Lost Secrets *Beautifully written, this modern adventure is exciting, charming and full of heart. * WRD Magazine *A fresh new tale. [...] Edie is a lovely character [...] it is great to see a female lead driving the story on and we should never underestimate the value of children seeing girls in this way. An enjoyable read that teaches us that looking closer can lead to adventures galore. -- North East Teacher * The Great British Book Worm *Kate Wilkinson has constructed the Flits' small world brilliantly and it's impossible not to be enthralled by her magical story of friendship, family and focussing on life's little things. * Reading Hub *Young imaginations are destined to take flight when they tuck into this magical box of tricks from former BBC Radio children's writer Kate Wilkinson as she unleashes a thrilling story with all the vibes and effervescence of Mary Norton's classic 1952 fantasy, The Borrowers. [. . .] Set against the backdrop of London and its Underground network, Wilkinson's action-packed and heartwarming story about friendship and family reminds us all to notice the little things in life and to treasure each other, however big or small we might be. * The Gazette *For anyone who loves adventure, tiny people (think the Borrowers with wings) and London (especially the Underground!) you'll adore this delightful tale. * Judith Eagle, author of The Secret Starling *

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Book Synopsis ‘Utterly original. Amanda Foody has a wicked imagination.’ Stephanie Garber, Sunday Times bestselling author of Caraval Reality is in the eye of the beholder… Even among the many unusual members of the travelling circus that has always been her home sixteen-year-old Sorina stands apart as the only illusion-worker born in hundreds of years. This rare talent allows her to create illusions that others can see, feel and touch, with personalities all of their own. Her creations are her family, and together they make up the cast of the Festival's Freak Show. But no matter how lifelike they may seem, her illusions are still just that—illusions, and not truly real. Or so she always believed…until one of them is murdered.Now she must unravel the horrifying truth before all her loved ones disappear.Trade Review‘I highly recommend this fantastical, wildly imagined thrill-ride of a story.’Laurie Forest, author of The Black Witch

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Book SynopsisA dark and powerful story of conflict, betrayal and magic from award-winning author Marcus Sedgwick. Shortlisted for the Guardian Children's Fiction Prize, Carnegie Medal and Blue Peter Book Award. A boy destined to lead his clan. A girl raised by wolves. A stranger with a sealed box. One small community living in dread of the coming of the legendary warrior tribe, the Dark Horse . . . A rich and powerful novel, set on a rocky northern coast in a bewitching, distant time.Trade Review'imaginative and gripping' -- Becca Pennicott THANET FOCUS

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Book Synopsis From the bestselling author of THE SECRET OF NIGHTINGALE WOOD comes an exciting WW2 mystery entwined with magic and myth, shortlisted for the Waterstones Children's Book Prize. 'A beautiful story.' KIRAN MILLWOOD HARGRAVE, author of The Girl of Ink & Stars '[A] mesmerising second novel' THE TELEGRAPH 'A poignant and uplifting tale packed with adventure, atmosphere and intriguing characters.' MAIL ON SUNDAY England is at war. Growing up in a lighthouse, Pet's world has been one of storms, secret tunnels and stories about sea monsters. But now the clifftops are a terrifying battleground, and her family is torn apart. This is the story of a girl who is small, afraid and unnoticed. A girl who freezes with fear at the enemy planes ripping through the skies overhead. A girl who is somehow destined to become part of the strange, ancient legend of the Daughters of Stone ... The highly-anticipated second novel by Lucy Strange, author of the bestselling The Secret of Nightingale Wood and The Ghost of Gosswater. A haunting wartime tale about a girl who lives in a lighthouse, woven through with an unforgettable legend. Winner of the Historical Association Young Quills Award 2021 and shortlisted for the Waterstones Children's Book Prize 2020.

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Book SynopsisFrom the bestselling author of TIN and THE MONSTERS OF ROOKHAVEN comes an unforgettable story of family, magic and home ... 'A fantastical tale of monsters and grief, family and love, and a thrilling middle-grade adventure with real depth and heart.' THE BOOKSELLER, Book of the Month 'Poignant, strange, full of folkloric menace and delight, Pog fulfils the promise of Kenny's extraordinary debut, Tin.' GUARDIAN 'A terrific book with echoes of The Spiderwick Chronicles and Five Children and It, I loved it!' IRISH INDEPENDENT After their mother dies, David and Penny move to her family’s old house in the forest. Dad says it’s a fresh start but it feels sad and empty without Mum. And there are noises in the attic ... A small furry creature is living in the roof. There are other creatures too – less friendly ones – that seem to be multiplying. Only with Pog’s help can David and Penny save themselves – and goodness in the world. If they can resist promises from the darkness ... A wonderful gentle fantasy novel from the bestselling author of The Monsters of Rookhaven and Tin Packed with fantastical monsters, vibrant characters and tonnes of heart Explores grief in a highly original way, as two siblings process the death of their mother with the help of an unforgettable, magical creature: Pog

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Book Synopsis From the bestselling author of THE GIRL OF INK & STARS comes an unforgettable read for young and old alike: an exciting adventure to the frozen north, perfect for fans of Philip Pullman. WINNER OF THE BLACKWELL'S CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE YEAR 'This gorgeous story of bravery, sisterhood, goodbyes and beginnings is a must for everyone.' JESSIE BURTON 'The Way Past Winter is a masterclass in exquisite storytelling.' CATHERINE DOYLE 'Gorgeous, heartfelt and incredibly exciting. Her best yet, and that's saying something.' ROBIN STEVENS Mila and her sisters live with their brother Oskar in a small forest cabin in the snow. One night, a fur-clad stranger arrives seeking shelter for himself and his men. But by the next morning, they've gone – taking Oskar with them. Fearful for his safety, Mila and her sisters set out to bring Oskar back – even it means going north, crossing frozen wild-lands to find a way past an eternal winter. The third children's novel by Times number one bestselling author Kiran Millwood Hargrave, winner of the Waterstones Children's Book Prize and the British Book Awards Children's Book of the Year From the author of The Girl of Ink & Stars, The Island at the End of Everything, Julia and the Shark and The Mercies - chosen for the Richard & Judy Book Club The Way Past Winter combines high adventure with beautiful writing and a wintry folk-tale feel – a gorgeous literary novel for all year round

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Book Synopsis An enchancting, lyrical novel from the acclaimed author of A Light Between Worlds! 'Weymouth's prose is lush and evocative, filled with palpable descriptions and compelling mystery' KIRKUS 'With lush prose and an eye for atmospheric detail, Weymouth adeptly spins a tale in which thge heroine is torn between passion and purpose, destruction and duty.' PUBLISHERS WEEKLY When her father is convicted of high treason, Violet Sterling is exiled. Seven years later she has a chance to return to her beloved Burleigh House and to Wyn, the boy she left behind. But Burleigh – one of the six great magical houses of England – has gone wild with grief after the death of Violet’s father and now the capricious King of England has threatened to raze it to the ground. Vi must decide whether her destiny is set in stone, before Burleigh destroys everything she loves. The second novel by acclaimed YA talent and author of The Light Between World, Laura Weymouth. A curious and original alternate history of living great houses, set in a vividly imagined, enchanting world.

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Book SynopsisMiss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children meets Lord of the Flies in the exciting debut from Angharad Walker. 'A mesmerising other-worldly story that got deep under my skin – I couldn’t put it down.' JASBINDER BILAN, author of Asha & the Spirit Bird 'Dark, tense and intoxicating ... Seriously exciting.' LUCY STRANGE, author of The Ghost of Gosswater A new boy arrives at the Ash House. He can't remember his name - or why he's been sent there. Given the name Sol, and troubled by a mystery pain that no medicine can cure, he joins the gang of children living in the shadows of the secretive house. Soon, however, there's more for him to face: the darkness that descends with the arrival of the Doctor ... A timeless, multi-layered debut for ages 10+; perfect for fans of Neil Gaiman, Holly Black, and Ransom Riggs's Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children. Truly unique and original storytelling, with touches of magical realism and dystopia. Features stunning artwork by Olia Muza.

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Book SynopsisThe first in a new electrifying Middle Grade series from author of SKY THIEVES, Dan Walker. "You ask me what Light is, Lux? Light is everything. Every single thing. The very fabric of our world is made up of this force - people, trees, the chair I am sitting on, this pen I am writing with. Few can access this Light, control it. You are one." Huge Monsters roam the land, smashing towns to splinters. For centuries, energy-wielding Light Hunters battled the creatures, rescuing the townspeople of Daven from a terrible fate. Then, a single, disastrous mistake turned the people against Light. Now, this powerful and ancient force is mostly gone, all but a memory. Lux Dowd lives in a clock repair shop with his ill Grandpa and the old man's live-in carer, Miss Hart. Although he might seem to be a normal 12 year old boy, Lux has a secret: not only can he wield Light, he might be the finest Light-healer the world has ever seen. But when Lux uses his power to save his best friend Maya, his Light draws a strange, shadowy figure to town, one who would use Lux's powers for evil. He is rescued from the stranger's clutches by Miss Hart, who reveals to him that she is one of the last of the undercover Light Hunters tasked with watching over Lux. After a dangerous air ship journey to the Light Hunter HQ, Lux begins to learn the Light Hunter ways and form a bond with his new squad of apprentice hunters. But before he can settle, the Hunters receive a warning about an upcoming Monster attack near Lux's hometown. The Monster that destroyed his family is back. Lux and his new friends find themselves in a race against time to locate the Monster and stop it before it can destroy the town. But is the Monster the real terror, or is there a greater danger lurking in the shadows, waiting for its moment to strike?

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Book SynopsisWhat if you could befriend a cloud? What weather would you choose? What if the weather matched itself to your mood, whether you wanted it to, or not? 11-year-old Stella has returned home to Shetland to spend the summer with her Grandpa, but it's nothing like she remembers. Grandpa is lost in his grief for Gran, the island is bleak and Stella feels trapped, until she encounters an old woman, Tamar, who can spin rainbows and call hurricanes. With the help of Nimbus, a feisty young storm cloud, Stella begins to learn the craft of weather weaving. But when her cloud brain-fogs Grandpa and The Haken (a sea witch) starts to close in, she realises that magic comes with big responsibilities. It will take all her heart and courage to face the coming storm... THE WEATHER WEAVER is essentially a Moana tale for Shetland; a coming of age story, intertwined with island myths and hidden magic. At its heart, the novel tackles the following themes: independence, the meaning of home, and the fallibility of grown-ups.

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Book Synopsis From the author of the Costa Award-winning Asha & the Spirit Bird comes a breathtaking, magical adventure ... WINNER OF THE INDIE CHILDREN'S BOOK AWARD LONGLISTED FOR THE BLUE PETER BOOK AWARD 'I absolutely adored it ... an achingly beautiful story' Sita Brahmachari 'A lush, gorgeous setting in a novel as vivid and original as her Costa-winning debut.' The Guardian 'Beautifully written, richly atmospheric and touchingly spiritual, this brief novel sparkles like a polished gem' Daily Mail Tamarind never knew her Indian mum, who died soon after she was born. So when she arrives at her ancestral home, a huge mansion in the Himalayas surrounded by luxuriant gardens, she's full of questions for her extended family. But instead of answers, she finds an ominous silence – and a trickle of intriguing clues: an abandoned hut, a friendly monkey, a glowing star ring, and a strange girl in the garden who calls herself Ishta. Slowly, Tamarind unravels a mystery at the heart of who she is ... The second novel by Jasbinder Bilan, author of the Costa Award-winning Asha & the Spirit Bird and a rising star in middle-grade fiction. Perfect for readers aged 9 and up – for fans of Kiran Millwood Hargrave. A beautiful and emotional family drama lightly woven with magic, in a breathtaking Indian setting.

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Book Synopsis A fin-tastic tale of friendship and adventure, perfect for fans of Lemony Snicket and Edward Scissorhands! 'Charming and delightful ... a whimsical adventure story stuffed to the flippers with fish puns and fun' SAM SEDGMAN 'I loved this story of fish, friendship and finding yourself.' A.F. STEADMAN 'The story has been polished like a pebble in a gift shop … so charming and quirky is our voyage' THE TIMES Marina lives in Merlington, a fish-obsessed seaside town. Unfortunately, she doesn't care for fish; she loves telling stories. Marina finds her best story yet when she explores the ruined, haunted pier: a boy called William with a head of tentacles and crab claws for hands. He has lived on the pier all his life, cared for by a fisherman who has since disappeared and who warned him always to remain hidden. Together, the pair resolve to unravel the mystery of his past – but danger isn't far away ... The debut novel by Richard Pickard, a fresh new voice in children's fiction and winner of the Times/Chicken House Chairman's Choice Award 2019. A funny, dark, core middle-grade story touching on themes of lies, storytelling, secrets, acceptance and, of course, fish! Perfect for fans of Lemony Snicket's A Series of Unfortunate Events and Edward Scissorhands!

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Book Synopsis From the author of the Costa Award-winning Asha & the Spirit Bird and Tamarind & the Star of Ishta comes a atmospheric, magical adventure with a stunning twist ... 'A magical stormy adventure' THE TIMES 'A gem for readers of eight-plus' THE GUARDIAN 'A deliciously addictive, one-sitting type of read' NIZRANA FAROOK, AUTHOR OF THE GIRL WHO STOLE AN ELEPHANT 'A beautiful weaving of myth and magic ... Simply stunning' ZILLAH BETHELL, AUTHOR OF THE SHARK CALLER Aarti has lived on the island with Aunt for as long as she can remember. Like the weather, Aunt rules her world with rare warmth. Aarti's only comforts are a book of Indian myths full of blue gods, a fox's friendship, and a toy rabbit she finds in a locked room. Then, she learns Aunt has been feeding her lies. Fate intervenes when a half-drowned boy washes up on the beach. With his help, Aarti hopes to remember who she really is ... and perhaps find a way home. The mesmerising third novel from one of the most exciting writers of middle-grade fiction Jasbinder is the author of the Costa Book Award-winning Asha & the Spirit Bird and Indie Book Award-winning Tamarind & the Star of Ishta Themes of identity, faith and belonging with a stunning twist in an evocative and remote Scottish island setting

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