Children’s / Teenage fiction Modern and contemporary fiction

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Book SynopsisThe third book in the No. 1 global bestselling They Both Die at the End series. What if you could find out your death date from a single phone call? Death-Cast is calling . . . will you answer?   ‘If They Both Die at the End broke your heart and put it back together again, be prepared for this novel to do the same. A tender, sad, hopeful and youthful story that deserves as much love as its predecessor.’ Culturefly ‘[A] heart-pounding story [full] of emotion and suspense.’ Kirkus ‘An extraordinary book with a riveting plot.’ Booklist  Two strangers, each with their own complicated relationship to Death-Cast, help each other learn to live. Paz Dario stays up every night, waiting for the Death-Cast call that would mean he doesn’t have to keep faking his way through this lonely life. After a devastating day, Paz decides he’s done waiting around for Death-Cast. If they say he’s not dying, he’ll just have to prove them wrong. But right before Paz can die, a boy saves his life.   Alano Rosa is heir to the Death-Cast empire that encourages everyone to live their best lives, but he doesn’t feel in control of his own existence thanks to his father. And with a violent organisation called the Death Guard threatening Alano, his End Day might be closer than he thinks. It’s time to live.   Fate brings Paz and Alano together. But they must survive the tragic trials ahead so no one dies at the end.   This book contains themes that some readers may find difficult.  PRAISE FOR ADAM SILVERA: ‘There isn’t a teenager alive who won't find their heart described perfectly on these pages.’ Patrick Ness, author of The Knife of Never Letting Go ‘Adam Silvera is a master at capturing the infinite small heartbreaks of love and loss and grief.’ Nicola Yoon, author of Everything, Everything ‘A phenomenal talent.’ Juno Dawson, author of Clean and Wonderland ‘Bold and haunting.’ Lauren Oliver, author of Delirium

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Book Synopsis'So funny' Noel Fielding'Brilliantly funny' Shappi Khorsandi'Hilarious' Tim Minchin'Warm and funny' Frank Cottrell-Boyce  Can you imagine a world with no screens? Don't miss the hilarious new 'what-if' adventure from bestselling author, comedian, and presenter Danny Wallace, with illustrations throughout from Gemma Correll. When ten-year-old Stella wakes up to discover a world full of BLANK screens, her family, town, and in fact the whole world seems to have been thrown into chaos. And what about poor Grandma who is stranded at the other end of the country? Cue a rollicking madcap road trip, full of driving disasters and family fallouts, as they set off on a rescue mission. And along the way Stella and her family discover that being away from screens might not be the WORST THING EVER, and even though they might not be

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Book SynopsisWould she ever find a real-life husband? Would she even find a partner to dance with at tonight’s ball? She just didn’t know. Anna Austen has always been told she must marry rich. Her future depends upon it. While her dear cousin Fanny has a little more choice, she too is under pressure to find a suitor. But how can either girl know what she wants? Is finding love even an option? The only person who seems to have answers is their Aunt Jane. She has never married. In fact, she’s perfectly happy, so surely being single can’t be such a bad thing? The time will come for each of the Austen girls to become the heroines of their own stories. Will they follow in Jane’s footsteps? In this witty, sparkling novel of choices, popular historian LUCY WORSLEY brings alive the delightful life of Jane Austen as you’ve never seen it before. ‘Enter the world of Jane Austen, with a cast of characters as you've never seen them before. This delightful coming-of-age story... features strong female characters and a plot that tackles the struggles women faced during the period’ - Historic Royal Palace Inside Story MagazineTrade ReviewAn expertly written historical YA novel that weaves real people and places with fictional events that portray the realities of Georgian England * Anita Loughrey *Enter the world of Jane Austen, with a cast of characters as you've never seen them before. This delightful coming-of-age story... features strong female characters and a plot that tackles the struggles women faced during the period * Historic Royal Palace Inside Story Magazine *

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Book SynopsisA fallen angel. A forbidden love. A town full of secrets. Discover the first book in the gripping New York Times bestselling Hush, Hush saga.

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Book SynopsisWhen Orla enrols on a prestigious drama course, she is thrown into the spotlight for the very first time. Orla can't help but feel left out - she has to earn her pocket money and her responsibilities at home can't just be ignored. Then again, doesn't she deserve to want things for herself?

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Book Synopsis The Times Children''s Book of the Week - Playful and perceptive...This is definitely one troll worth unblockingA funny, heartwarming story about internet trolling and learning to love yourself. Below the bridge, beneath the log, underneath the burping bog, where townsfolk whispered, cringed and crept, a terrifying monster slept... In this funny tale, inspired by both internet trolls and The Three Billy Goats Gruff, there is a terrifying troll that lives under a bridge. Unseen, he delights in shouting nasty things to passers-by. But when a d/Deaf bunny unwittingly faces up to him, he realises that it''s not so fun to say nasty things to someone''s face. Can Troll finally learn to love himself and others?Perfect for children aged 3+ This is a funny story that addresses internet trolling in an accessible way A charming character-led tale with Troll learning the error of his ways and

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Book SynopsisWith help from his grandma, Josh finds a way to quieten his overactive Brian' in this gently humorous and empathetic tale about family and mental health by bestseller Helen Rutter.Josh has always called his brain Brian, and Brian can sometimes be his best friend, helping Josh with tests and giving him brilliant moneymaking ideas. But he can also be Josh's worst enemy, keeping him awake at night worrying, and telling him that his family's problems are all Josh's fault.When the arguments at home get really bad, Josh is sent to live with his grandma, who lives in a weird shack in the middle of nowhere. At first Brian's voice gets louder and louder, and Josh feels out of control. But as he helps his grandma in the garden, growing their own food, and with all the jobs that need to be done around the shack, Josh starts to realise that she understands him and Brian better than anyone.Particularly suitable for readers aged 9+ with a reading age of 8.

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Book SynopsisA beautiful hardback edition of Michelle Magorian''s bestselling novel Goodnight Mister Tom. This edition has a stunning Puffin ''cloth'' Classics cover design and gorgeous printed endpapers and is perfect for the family bookshelf.When the Second World War breaks out, young Willie Beech is evacuated to the countryside. A sad, deprived child, he slowly begins to flourish under the care of kind old Tom Oakley. But then his cruel mother summons him back to war-torn London . . . Will he ever see Mister Tom again?''Everyone''s idea of a smash-hit first novel: full-blown characters to love and hate, moments of grief and joy, and a marvellous story that knows just how to grab the emotions'' Guardian

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Book SynopsisGirl by day. Cat by night. Ready for adventure! This chapter book series is purrfect for newly confident readers who are looking for superhero stories.In Kitty and the Starlight Song, Kitty is preparing for the end of the year concert - her class will be singing a song in front of the whole school, and each one of them will have a line to sing as a solo. As a superhero-in-training with cat-like superpowers, Kitty can do all sorts of marvellous things, from jumping between roofs to catching thieves and recovering stolen treasures. As a superhero, Kitty is learning to be brave and to trust in her skills. But as a regular girl, Kitty is terrified to sing in front of everyone at school. She will need the help of her trusted cat crew to overcome her stage-fright. Kitty and the Starlight Song is the eighth book in the chapter book series about Kitty and her superhero adventures. With a charming main character, cat-packed exploits and striking two-colour art on every page, Kitty is the perfecTrade ReviewPurrfect books for the intended age - I am sure they will be a big success. * Alligator's Mouth *Praise for Kitty and the Moonlight Rescue: . . . This feline frolic will appeal to readers starting their first chapter books. * iNews *Review for Kitty and the Sky Garden Adventure: A great first outing into the world of 'chapter' books, Kitty's exploits are ideal for reading aloud or to bridge the gap between picture books and lengthier fiction. * BookTrust *

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Book SynopsisWhen Otis wakes up after a sleepover at popular kid Rocco Rococo'shouse, it's a scene of total chaos and disaster. Weirdly, no onecan remember what happened the night before, so Rocco and Otisreluctantly team up to retrace their steps in the hopes of workingout happened.

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Book SynopsisWhat happens when a talking fish, a runaway dog, and a herd of hog-likecreatures descend on the woods behind Cody Brachman's house?An absolute nightmare!

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Book Synopsis'I am obsessed with this book.' Alice OsemanA joyfully queer and stunningly romantic graphic novel inspired by the work of Jane Austen and perfect for fans of Heartstopper, Bloom and Lex Croucher. George has always been in love with their best friend, Eleanor – and has always tried to ignore it. Now Eleanor is coming of age and expected to marry a suitable man, it doesn’t matter how George feels – they have to let her go. Besides, George is busy avoiding their aunt’s matchmaking, taking over the failing family estate, and trying to keep their dressing in men’s clothes a secret. Eleanor has always wanted to do everything ‘right,’ including falling in love – but she’s never met a boy she’s interested in. She’s more concerned with finding the perfect match for her cousin Charlotte, and working out why George is suddenly pulling away.

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Book SynopsisM.G. Leonard, internationally bestselling author of Twitch, Beetleboy and Adventures on Trains, is back with the second thrilling wildlife mystery for birdwatching detectives The Twitchers! >> Shortlisted for the CRIMEFEST Award for Best Crime Novel for Children 2022>> Longlisted for the 2023 James Cropper Wainwright Prize for Children''s Writing on Nature and Conservation>> A clarion call for environmentalists everywhere. Rob Biddulph on SparkWhen Jack rescues a wounded cat, he quickly suspects foul play. Could there be a wildlife criminal on the loose in Briddvale?Jack rushes to investigate, determined to catch the culprit, only to stumble into a deepening mystery and a sinister criminal plot.Can Jack and The Twitchers stop the villains before it''s too late?Spark is a page-turning autumn mystery adventure about courage, friendship and protecting our planTrade ReviewEvery bit as brilliant as you’d expect: fun, fresh & fabulously gripping. * Abi Elphinstone *A flapping great follow-up to the eggcellent Twitch. * Sam Sedgman *Another pacy wonderful adventure steeped in the magic of nature and friendship * Jasbinder Bilan *Utterly brilliant. Every book M. G. Leonard writes, I think ‘ooh, this is my favourite’ - and yes, this is my favourite AGAIN! Absolutely magnificent. Gripping and funny, utterly engaging, unputdownable. Cannot recommend highly enough. Perfect storytelling, loved it with all my heart! * Liz Hyder, author of Bearmouth *Spark is a skillfully crafted mystery adventure, it’s also a clarion call for environmentalists everywhere, and will, no doubt, help nurture a love of birds and nature in readers young and old. -- Rob Biddulph * LoveReading4Kids *

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Book SynopsisFrom USA Today bestselling author Emma Scott comes the first in an emotional series of interconnected, coming-of-age YA romances.

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Book SynopsisA hilarious Little Gem from Jeremy Strong, the master of comic writing for children, with character-packed illustration from Jamie Smith. Plucky young penguin Nellie Choc-Ice goes on an epic adventure when her iceberg floats off to the North Pole. Nellie needs all her wits about her to outsmart a steady stream of hungry creatures who reckon she looks like a tasty treat. Will Nellie ever find her way home? High quality cream paper and a special easy to read font ensure a smooth read for all.Trade Review"Packs a punch full of energy and wit … the perfect book for budding little naturalists" – BookTrust "Will have readers in stitches … highly entertaining reading while there's an important environmental message beneath the humour too" – LoveReading4Kids "I read this when I needed a smile and I got many" – Nayu's Reading Corner, Blog "I have a feeling that [Nellie and Captain Beardy Beard] will become very popular with young readers" – The Letterpress Project

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Book SynopsisSPLINTERED BLOODLINES. UNBREAKABLE BARGAINS. A LEGACY OF BETRAYAL. The powerful sequel to the instant New York Times bestselling and award-winning Legendborn that's taking TikTok by storm. Perfect for fans of Cassandra Clare, Leigh Bardugo, Sarah J. Maas and Cinderella is Dead!The shadows have risen, and the line is law.   All Bree wanted was to uncover the truth behind her mother’s death. So she infiltrated the Legendborn Order, a secret society descended from King Arthur’s knights – only to discover her own ancestral power. Now, Bree has become someone new:  A Medium. A Bloodcrafter. A Scion.   But the ancient war between demons and the Order is rising to a deadly peak. And Nick, the Legendborn boy Bree fell in love with, has been kidnapped.   When the Regents reveal they will do whate

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Book SynopsisFrom the internationally bestselling author of An Enchantment of Ravens comes a breathtaking fantasy story of magic, power and slow-burning love. This is the perfect read for fans of Cassandra Clare, Sarah J. Maas's A COURT OF THORNS AND ROSES series, and Holly Black!'A bewitching gem . . . I absolutely loved every moment of this story'– Stephanie Garber, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Caraval seriesALL SORCERERS ARE EVIL . . .Elisabeth has known that for as long as she can remember. Raised in one of Austermeer’s Great Libraries, Elisabeth has grown up among magical grimoires that, if provoked, transform into grotesque monsters of ink and leather.When the library’s most dangerous grimoire is released, Elisabeth is blamed. With no one to turn to but her sworn enemy, the sorcerer Nathaniel Thorn, she finds

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewFrom curds to riches, from meltdown to uplift—this multicourse romp delivers. — Kirkus Reviews In their latest installment of “The Food Group” series, the dynamic duo introduces children to the complex emotions of pride and humility in one cheese-tastic package! A must purchase. — School Library Journal (starred review) This funny, warm picture book reminds little readers of the benefits of taking successes in stride and in listening to others. — Common Sense Media

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Book SynopsisJemima Small just wants to be like other girls. She hates being called Jemima Big, being forced to join the school health group - aka Fat Club - and that she can't apply for her favourite TV show without worrying everyone will laugh. But she also knows that the biggest stars in the universe are the brightest. So maybe it's her time to shine.Trade ReviewTamsin Winter is fast becoming a favourite for younger teenagers [...] an empowering story about body confidence. * The Observer *A total treat to read. Jemima is a hero! * Beth Garrod, author of Super Awkward *An uplifting and heartening read to help inspire body confidence in everyone. * Sunday Express (S Magazine) *A clear-sighted look at censorious attitudes to larger bodies - especially girls' bodies... Drily funny, this touching book gives its readers permission to take up space. * The Guardian *An ode to body positivity based around funny, smart, mischievous 13-year-old Jemima, who has been picked on because of her size since she was seven. * The i *

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Book SynopsisCount down to Christmas with Maisy and her friends!Unwrap twenty-four super stories to share in the run-up to Christmas and keep to read again and again, all year round. Enjoy a story every single day of advent with this collection of pocket-sized family-favourite picture books, starring Maisy, Charley, Tallulah, Cyril and Eddie on all kinds of adventures! This story collection is beautifully presented in a large hardback with a special pocket for each book and a festive red ribbon. The perfect gift in the run-up to the festive season.

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Book SynopsisHilarious, illustrated school-based antics where everything that happens leads to DRAMA and RUNNING AROUND and even some FAINTING!Winner of the Laugh Out Loud Book Awards 2023!Izzy and her friends are on a school trip to a big lake. Gary Petrie is excited because the lodges where they're staying have ROBES AND SLIPPERS! The lake is dark and deep and a bit scary. But it's when they open their packed lunches that they know! There's a MONSTER in the lake and it's coming for their CRISPS!Laugh-out-loud fun from Blue Peter Award winners Pamela Butchart and Thomas Flintham.Read more of Izzy's adventures!Baby Aliens Got My TeacherThe Spy Who Loved School DinnersMy Headteacher Is a Vampire RatAttack of the Demon Dinner LadiesTo Wee Or Not To Wee!There's a Werewolf In My Tent!The Phantom Lollipop Man!There's a Yeti in the Playground!Icarus Was RidiculousThe Broken Leg of Doom

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Book SynopsisA stunningly original novel from the award-winning author of TheBrightstorm Chronicles, perfect for fans of Piers Torday and RossWelford - an action-packed adventure filled with warmth and bigquestions about humanity and family.

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Book SynopsisAll fans of Julia Donaldson''s should read the enchanting tale of The Dinosaur''s Diary.Surviving and finding a safe place to lay her eggs is difficult for Hypsilophodon with dinosaurs like Tyrannosaurus Rex around. When she falls into a mysterious pool and finds herself on a modern farm there are still problems. Finally she finds a safe place to hatch her babies, but how can she keep thirteen baby dinosaurs safe and secret? When the farmer catches one - Hector - and plans to take him to the vet, it''s up to Hypsilophodon and her fiesty daughter, Henrietta, to get him back. After a daring rescue, Hypsilophodon takes all her youngsters back through the mysterious pool to her own world.***A perfect read-aloud book for children age 7+******Julia Donaldson is one of today''s most loved children''s book authors***Julia Donaldson has a fast-growing reputation as a children''s writer. She won the Smarties Prize and the Blue Peter Award for The Gruffalo, illustrated by Axel Scheffler. Since then, Julie and Axel have collaborated on a number of highly successful and award-winning picture books, including The Gruffalo''s Child and Room on the Broom. Julia lives in Glasgow.''Donaldson''s flair for a good story extends way up the age-scale'' The Times''canters along, full of fun and energy'' The ScotsmanVisit www.juliadonaldson.co.uk for

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Book Synopsis'A perfect marriage of deep romance and gently observed social comedy . . . It is flawless. I cannot imagine this book not making your heart swoon and your day brighter' Jenny Colgan'Sophisticated, brilliantly plotted and gloriously funny' Amanda Craig, GuardianSpring 1938: as Hitler marches into Austria, Ruth Berger's family is forced to flee, but a devastating misunderstanding leaves her alone in Nazi-occupied Vienna. There is no hope of escape until a chance meeting with an old family friend, Quinton Somerville, offers her refuge through a marriage of convenience.On arrival in London, Ruth and Quin find that dissolving their marriage is not as simple as they had thought, nor is keeping it secret. As war approaches, how will Ruth start a new life if she is not able to break away from the past?The Morning Gift by award-winner Eva Ibbotson is a modern classic of unexpected love, independence and belonging durin

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Book SynopsisA beautifully illustrated story of freedom, music, and seeking refuge.A small group of refugees is crowded on to a boat on the sea. They share their stories as the boat travels towards the dream of safety and freedom. One boy, Rami, has brought his violin, and his story of how the violin was invented, and of a stallion that could run like the wind, weaves through the other stories, bringing them all together into a celebration of hope and of the power of music and story. A very special, beautifully illustrated, fable for all who strive to understand, and to stand together with, those around them.Gill Lewis is the multi-award-winning and best-selling author of novels such as Sky Hawk, White Dolphin, and Scarlet Ibis and A Story Like the Wind is her lyrical and unforgettable response to the refugee crisis, which will linger on in the mind long after reading. Beautiful charcoal illustrations from Jo Weaver give this book a very special feel and make it a perfect gift.Trade Review"Lewis writes a powerful story, an intelligent conversation between myth and crude reality that wakes you up with a cold splash" - picked as the Times Book of the Week * The Saturday Times *"Resonant, compassionate and enriched by evocative monochrome images" * The Sunday Times *"We need stories to help children develop empathy for others, because it is our only hope to develop a caring a tolerant society of the future" * The Bookseller *"The illustrations are haunting and perfectly compliment the text ... It eloquently celebrates our common humanity and nurtures the values of kindness, compassion and tolerance ... Absolutely beautiful in both appearance and content and highly recommended." * The Book Bag *"This affecting book deserves to be shared widely and discussed anywhere people come together in groups" * Red Reading Hub *"A Story Like the Wind is utterly beautiful; the words and illustrations perfectly intertwining to create a celebration of love, life and hope" * The Book Activist *"Gill Lewis weaves an unforgettable tale of displacement, hope, and the search for freedom" * The Guardian *"A wonderful tribute to the importance of stories and hope" * The Week Junior *"Gill Lewis's brief but beautiful story is rich in wonder, as well as being a timely reminder of the refugee crisis that continues today" * BookTrust *"A moving and surprising tale about a storytelling session" - Picked as one of the Children's books of the year * the Times *"This year saw an influx of stories about migration. Among the best was Gill Lewis's A Story Like the Wind" * The Daily Telegraph *"A very special and quite beautiful book from award-winning Gill Lewis... A stunning, rich, emotive book." * Books for Topics *

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Book Synopsis From the author of the million-copy-bestselling picture book phenomenon The Invisible String comes a moving companion title about coping with grief when a pet dies. 'When our pets aren't with us anymore, an Invisible Leash connects our hearts to each other. Forever.' That's what Zack's friend Emily tells him after his dog dies. Zack doesn't believe it. He only believes in what he can see. But on an enlightening journey through their neighborhood—and through his grief—he comes to feel the comforting tug of the Invisible Leash. And it feels like love. Accompanied by tender, uplifting art by Joanne Lew-Vriethoff, bestselling author Patrice Karst's gentle story uses the same bonding technique from her classic book The Invisible String to help readers through the experience of the loss of a beloved animal.Read all the books in The Invisible String series:The

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Book SynopsisOne of a series of delightfully humorous award-winning tales for beginner readers from the internationally acclaimed author-illustrator of Don''t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! and Knuffle BunnyGerald is careful. Piggie is not. Piggie cannot help smiling. Gerald can. Gerald worries so that Piggie does not have to. Gerald and Piggie are best friends. In I Love My New Toy!, Piggie can't wait to show Gerald her brand-new toy. But will an accidentally broken toy accidentally break a friendship?Trade ReviewWonderfully expressive pictures . . . a book which stands out from the majority of early readers * Parents in Touch *

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Book SynopsisAven Green, the remarkable heroine of Dusti Bowling's Life of a Cactus series, marches to her own beat in this hilarious, upbeat, and unforgettable chapter book. Third-grader Aven Green is an expert soccer player. She even has her own top secret moves! But when her friend Sujata joins the team, Aven has a hard time learning to help the new player shine. When the time comes to choose a new team captain, will Aven learn to share the spotlight and understand what it means to be a team player?Praise for Aven Green Music Machine: Realistic, affirming, and uplifting. Kirkus Reviews,starred reviewPraise for Aven Green Sleuthing Machine:Bowling's beloved Life of a Cactus protagonist returns in a new series of chapter books that capture her life as third grader. . . . Young readers will laugh aloud at Aven's funny reactions . . . [and] they will be intrigued by the practical skills she has perfected. . . . This chapter book companion to Bowling's well-loved middle-grade series is a recommendedTrade Review“This new book from Dusti Bowling is perfect for your summer reading list for kids aged 6-8 who are just entering the chapter book world.” —Daily Mom

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Book SynopsisThe start of an exciting series filled with Caribbean folklore and daring adventure. Corinne La Mer claims she isn’t afraid of anything. Not scorpions, not the boys who tease her, and certainly not jumbies. They’re just tricksters made up by parents to frighten their children. Then one night Corinne chases an agouti all the way into the forbidden forest, and shining yellow eyes follow her to the edge of the trees. They couldn’t belong to a jumbie. Or could they? When Corinne spots a beautiful stranger at the market the very next day, she knows something extraordinary is about to happen. When this same beauty, called Severine, turns up at Corinne’s house, danger is in the air. Severine plans to claim the entire island for the jumbies. Corinne must call on her courage and her friends and learn to use ancient magic she didn’t know she possessed to stop Severine and to save her island home.Trade Review“Tracey Baptiste scares up new audiences to learn about jumbies . . . She builds a fairy tale about a brave girl and her adventures among Caribbean creatures.” —Washington Post “A scary but cheerful tale that draws on Caribbean folk traditions. A great update on the 'town under supernatural attack' story, with a marvelous setting.” —Baltimore Sun “Endlessly addictive and hypnotic” —Essence Magazine “Far more than just your average spooky supernatural story, Baptiste uses the underpinnings of a classic folktale to take a closer look at colonization, rebellion, and what it truly takes to share the burden of tolerating the 'other.' Plus there are monsters. Gotta love the monsters.” —Elizabeth Bird, Fuse 8​ “The themes of fairness, justice, and retribution meld into a better than average evil witch story . . . This is a well written tale full of action with enough scary elements to satisfy fans of Adam Gidwitz’s A Tale Dark and Grimm or Laura Amy Schlitz’s Splendors and Glooms.” —School Library Journal “It’s refreshing to see a fantasy with its roots outside Europe . . . this is a book worth reading simply for its originality.” —Kirkus Reviews “A spine-tingling tale rooted in Caribbean folklore that will have readers holding their breath as they fly through its pages. Be forewarned! This tale isn’t some cozy, tropical vacation and it’s not for the weak at heart, oh, no! If you like spooky tales, this is the book for you. Corinne’s story is truly a welcome and refreshing edition to the world of fairytales.” —Valerie R. Lawson “This girl’s got guts. Even as she wanders the mystery-shrouded forest full of creepy-crawlies from Haitian folklore and faces up to the frightening newcomer to her village, Corrine La Mer brings badassery and wisdom beyond her years. Launching brave kids into the world of the horror novel, and leading them through it with lyrical prose, author Tracey Baptiste knows just how to seize kids’ attention.” —Foreword Reviews “Tracey Baptiste scares up new audiences to learn about jumbies . . . She builds a fairy tale about a brave girl and her adventures among Caribbean creatures.” —Washington Post “A scary but cheerful tale that draws on Caribbean folk traditions. A great update on the 'town under supernatural attack' story, with a marvelous setting.” —Baltimore Sun “Endlessly addictive and hypnotic” —Essence Magazine “Far more than just your average spooky supernatural story, Baptiste uses the underpinnings of a classic folktale to take a closer look at colonization, rebellion, and what it truly takes to share the burden of tolerating the 'other.' Plus there are monsters. Gotta love the monsters.” —Elizabeth Bird, Fuse 8? “The themes of fairness, justice, and retribution meld into a better than average evil witch story . . . This is a well written tale full of action with enough scary elements to satisfy fans of Adam Gidwitz’s A Tale Dark and Grimm or Laura Amy Schlitz’s Splendors and Glooms.” —School Library Journal “It’s refreshing to see a fantasy with its roots outside Europe . . . this is a book worth reading simply for its originality.” —Kirkus Reviews “A spine-tingling tale rooted in Caribbean folklore that will have readers holding their breath as they fly through its pages. Be forewarned! This tale isn’t some cozy, tropical vacation and it’s not for the weak at heart, oh, no! If you like spooky tales, this is the book for you. Corinne’s story is truly a welcome and refreshing edition to the world of fairytales.” —Valerie R. Lawson “This girl’s got guts. Even as she wanders the mystery-shrouded forest full of creepy-crawlies from Haitian folklore and faces up to the frightening newcomer to her village, Corrine La Mer brings badassery and wisdom beyond her years. Launching brave kids into the world of the horror novel, and leading them through it with lyrical prose, author Tracey Baptiste knows just how to seize kids’ attention.” —Foreword Reviews “Tracey Baptiste scares up new audiences to learn about jumbies . . . She builds a fairy tale about a brave girl and her adventures among Caribbean creatures.” —Washington Post “A scary but cheerful tale that draws on Caribbean folk traditions. A great update on the 'town under supernatural attack' story, with a marvelous setting.” —Baltimore Sun “Endlessly addictive and hypnotic” —Essence Magazine “Far more than just your average spooky supernatural story, Baptiste uses the underpinnings of a classic folktale to take a closer look at colonization, rebellion, and what it truly takes to share the burden of tolerating the 'other.' Plus there are monsters. Gotta love the monsters.” —Elizabeth Bird, Fuse 8​ “The themes of fairness, justice, and retribution meld into a better than average evil witch story . . . This is a well written tale full of action with enough scary elements to satisfy fans of Adam Gidwitz’s A Tale Dark and Grimm or Laura Amy Schlitz’s Splendors and Glooms.” —School Library Journal “It’s refreshing to see a fantasy with its roots outside Europe . . . this is a book worth reading simply for its originality.” —Kirkus Reviews “A spine-tingling tale rooted in Caribbean folklore that will have readers holding their breath as they fly through its pages. Be forewarned! This tale isn’t some cozy, tropical vacation and it’s not for the weak at heart, oh, no! If you like spooky tales, this is the book for you. Corinne’s story is truly a welcome and refreshing edition to the world of fairytales.” —Valerie R. Lawson “This girl’s got guts. Even as she wanders the mystery-shrouded forest full of creepy-crawlies from Haitian folklore and faces up to the frightening newcomer to her village, Corrine La Mer brings badassery and wisdom beyond her years. Launching brave kids into the world of the horror novel, and leading them through it with lyrical prose, author Tracey Baptiste knows just how to seize kids’ attention.” —Foreword Reviews

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Book SynopsisDaisy's in trouble again! Cheeky, extremely readable and funny young fiction from the bestselling author behind the hilarious OI FROG series. Another BRILLIANT laugh-out-loud Daisy adventure, from bestselling author of the Oi Frog series, Kes Gray.Here comes trouble!Daisy is SO excited because it's her BIRTHDAY and she's getting a special treat!Mum is taking Daisy and her best friends Gabby and Dylan to the zoo.The trouble with zoos is, the animals are TOO CUTE. Especially the penguins...So when Daisy gets to go into the ACTUAL penguin cage with the ACTUAL zookeeper and feed the ACTUAL penguins, it really isn't her fault that she has to secretly adopt one.But Daisy soon discovers that the trouble with penguins is, they don't make the easiest pets.Trade ReviewA good read for emergent readers, with an amusing twist to the story that will draw them along as they become involved with Daisy, her mum and her friends * The School Librarian *Gray manages convincingly to get inside the seven-year-old mind to create a laugh-aloud read for newly independent readers * Irish Independent *This is an amusing, easy-to-read story book for young readers. it is sure to become a firm favourite with old and new fans of Daisy -- Louise Ellis-Barrett * writeaway.org.uk *This is a laugh out loud story with hilarious illustrations * Families Magazine *WHAM gives Daisy and the Trouble with Zoos five out of five for laugh-out-loud-ability! * CITV.co.uk *

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Book SynopsisJack Palmer always assumed that when aliens invaded, humans would come together to save the world. But what if Earth was not theirs to fight for?

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Book SynopsisTomi Adeyemi conjures a stunning world of dark magic and danger in her West African-inspired fantasy Children of Blood and Bone, the first in the #1 New York Times-bestselling Legacy of Orïsha series. They killed my mother.They took our magic.They tried to bury us.Now we rise. Zélie remembers when the soil of Orïsha hummed with magic. When different clans ruled – Burners igniting flames, Tiders beckoning waves, and Zélie’s Reaper mother summoning forth souls.But everything changed the night magic disappeared. Under the orders of a ruthless king, anyone with powers was targeted and killed, leaving Zélie without a mother and her people without hope. Only a few people remain with the power to use magic, and they must remain hidden.Zélie is one such person. Now she has a chance to bring back magic to her people and strike against the monarchy. With the help of a rogue princess, Zélie must learn to harness her powers and outrun the crown prince, who is hell-bent on eradicating magic for good.Danger lurks in Orïsha, where strange creatures prowl, and vengeful spirits wait in the waters. Yet the greatest danger may be Zélie herself as she struggles to come to terms with the strength of her magic – and her growing feelings for an enemy.The movie of Children of Blood and Bone is in development and soon to be a major motion picture from Paramount Pictures and directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood of The Woman King.Trade ReviewBlack Girl Magic indeed! Full of cinematic action sequences (the most memorable of them set underwater and employing an army of the dead) and creatures worthy of Star Wars (horse-sized 'lionaires' have saber teeth and horns), it storms the boundaries of imagination. * The New York Times *Infused with rich mythology of west Africa, Adeyemi’s lush world-building and consummate plotting breathes new life into a YA fantasy epic. Themes of oppression and racism resonate all too strongly in today’s political climate. The cliffhanger ending may leave some readers reeling but, rest assured, this is first in a trilogy. * Observer *Epic fantasy YA debut of magic and war. * Guardian *Tomi Adeyemi has created a lush, vibrant world, full of legend and lore, more than enough to sate even the most ravenous fantasy fan. There are swoony moments, shocking moments, terrifying moments, and heartbreaking moments. -- Melinda Salisbury, author Sin Eater’s DaughterThis highly anticipated fantasy novel earned its 23-year-old Nigerian-American author a seven-figure deal. The first instalment of a three-part young adult trilogy, it draws on African myth and folklore and was reportedly inspired by the Black Lives Matters movement. The film rights were snapped up before the book was even published. * Irish Independent *In one of the most highly-anticipated fantasy releases this year, Tomi Adeyemi spins a luxe tale of magic, adventure, and forbidden love. Zélie lives in a world once ruled by magic, but mass-murders decreed by a new king have all but stamped her people out, and she has a narrow window to bring the magic of her lands back to life. Fans of Leigh Bardugo and Game of Thrones will gobble this up. * BuzzFeed *Epic in scale and size… it’s a whirlwind read thanks to immersive world-building, powerful characters and ferocious plotting. Themes of prejudice and oppression are particularly poignant in the current political climate. * The Bookseller *The Harry Potter I should have had. * MostlyLit Podcast *All our bookselling instincts tell us Children of Blood and Bone is a book apart. * Waterstones Loves *This year’s big fantasy breakout... [an] epic story of family, love and magic. * Stylist *A hugely enjoyable escapist story that makes you re-examine the world around you. It is a miraculous achievement. -- Kiran Millwood Hargrave * Guardian *Hugely gripping and original… Three perspectives, complex world-building and superlative characterisation make this a must for fantasy fans. -- Imogen Russell Williams * Metro *This book gripped me from page one. The magic, the characters and raw history in this book blew me away. Adeyemi’s world building is fantastic. -- Laura Andrews * Yorkshire Evening Post *Immerses you in a fantasy world of magic and myth. * Belfast Telegraph *A meaty, multi-voiced epic with a west African-inspired setting. * Guardian *We’re in an entirely other culture – a Nigeria-inspired kingdom of magic and mythology – but are utterly at home. The first chapter, alone, is so rich in detail, action, scene and character. And wonderful prose. * i News *

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Book SynopsisMr Wolf and the gang are back!

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Book SynopsisHow I Live Now is an original and poignant book by Meg RosoffHow I Live Now is the powerful and engaging story of Daisy, the precocious New Yorker and her English cousin Edmond, torn apart as war breaks out in London, from the multi award-winning Meg Rosoff. How I Live Now has been adapted for the big screen by Kevin Macdonald, starring Saoirse Ronan as Daisy and releases in 2013.Fifteen-year-old Daisy thinks she knows all about love. Her mother died giving birth to her, and now her dad has sent her away for the summer, to live in the English countryside with cousins she''s never even met.There she''ll discover what real love is: something violent, mysterious and wonderful. There her world will be turned upside down and a perfect summer will explode into a million bewildering pieces.How will Daisy live then?''Fresh, honest, rude, funny. I put it down with tears on my face'' - Julie Myerson, Guardian ''Assure

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Book SynopsisProfessor Pippy P. (Pee-Pee) Poopypants is a brilliant scientist, but his ridiculous name means no one takes his fantastic inventions seriously. And now he's on the rampage! He's armed with fiendish inventions Shrinky-Pig 2000 and the terrible Gerbil Jogger 2000. Can Captain Underpants stop him?

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Book SynopsisFrom the bestselling author of The Fault in our Stars and Looking for Alaska, now a major TV seriesQuentin Jacobsen has always loved Margo Roth Spiegelman, for Margo (and her adventures) are the stuff of legend at their high school. So when she one day climbs through his window and summons him on an all-night road trip of revenge he cannot help but follow. But the next day Margo doesn't come to school and a week later she is still missing. Q soon learns that there are clues in her disappearance . . . and they are for him. But as he gets deeper into the mystery culminating in another awesome road trip across America he becomes less sure of who and what he is looking for.Masterfully written by John Green, this is a thoughtful, insightful and hilarious coming-of-age story.Trade ReviewImagine a hybrid of Scooby Doo and The Catcher in the Rye and you get a little of this novel’s flavour * The Financial Times *Green’s prose is astounding – from hilarious, hyperintellectual trash talk and shtick, to complex philosophizing, to devastating observation and truths. He nails it – exactly how a thing feels, looks, affects – page after page * School Library Journal *Genuine – and genuinely funny – dialogue, a satisfyingly tangled but not unbelievable mystery and delightful secondary characters * Kirkus Reviews *

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Book SynopsisThe sixth title in the number one bestselilng CHERUB series! James has to infiltrate a group of animal rights activists ... Every day thousands of animals die in laboratory experiments. Some say these experiments provide essential scientific knowledge, while others will do anything to prevent them.James and Lauren Adams are stuck in the middle.They''re CHERUB agents. Trained professionals with one essential advantage: adults never suspect that children are spying on them.For official purposes, these children do not exist.Trade ReviewThe reader will be drawn inexorably towards the final twist in the tail that will give readers pause for thought but be ready for a rollercoaster ride * Lovereading4kids *An exciting and hugely memorable read * Flipside Magazine *Thrilling as well as motivational and full of fascinating facts * Bournemouth Echo *Full of all the action and excitement of the previous CHERUB books * Focus Magazine *Very exciting and mysterious and full of action and adventure -- Patrick Hannon, aged 15 * Cork Evening Echo *Ass soon as you start reading it, you never want to stop ... an excellent book -- Shan Patel, Arnold School * Teen Titles *Praise for books in the CHERUB series: 'Punchy, exciting, glamorous and, what's more, you'll completely wish it was true.' * Sunday Express *Teenagers who enjoy intrigue and high adventure will be riveted * Waterstone's Books Quarterly *'Crackling tension and high-octane drama.' * Daily Mail *'A really good book that you could re-read over and over again.' * Guardian *'Pacy writing, punchy dialogue and a gripping plot, it's got it all.' * Daily Express *'Fast-moving action ... and cool gadgets!' * The Times *

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Book SynopsisA phizzwhizzing new edition of Roald Dahl''s classic story, in glorious full colour for the first time.Danny lives in a caravan with his father, the most marvellous and exciting father any boy ever had.All the land around them belongs to Mr Victor Hazell, a rich snob with a great glistening beery face and tiny piggy eyes. Nobody likes him, not one-little bit.So one day, Danny and his father concoct a daring plot that will give the old blue-faced baboon Victor Hazell the greatest shock of his life - so long as they don''t get caught ...

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Book SynopsisTurn the page, share the adventure in an out-of-this world story from bestselling author, Ben Miller.  ‘A sheer delight for all kids both big AND small’ Ruth Jones   'Bubbles with warmth and mischievous humour . . . irresistible' Alexander Armstrong 'Wonderful, funny, magical' Chris Evans*BRAND NEW ADVENTURE ROBIN HOOD AGED 10 3/4 AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER NOW* Harrison tries his best to be good. He doesn’t steal, he always shares with his sister and he never cheats at board games, but Harrison also has a BIG flaw . . . He can't control his temper! So when he’s given a black hole instead of a balloon at a party, Harrison jumps at the chance to get rid of everything that makes him cross. But when it’s not just things he hates that are disappearing into the black Trade 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 SynopsisWINNER OF THE DIVERSE BOOK AWARDS 2022. A rainbow-filled, JOYOUS debut from a hugely exciting new talent. Perfect for 9+ readers and fans of Elle McNicoll, Lisa Thompson and Onjali Rauf's The Boy at the Back of the Class.My name’s Archie Albright, and I know two things for certain:  1. My mum and dad kind of hate each other, and they’re not doing a great job of pretending that they don’t anymore.  2. They’re both keeping a secret from me, but I can’t figure out what. Things aren't going great for Archie Albright. His dad's acting weird, his mum too, and all he wants is for everything to go back to normal, to three months before when his parents were happy and still lived together. When Archie sees a colourful, crumpled flyer fall out of Dad's pocket, he thinks he may have found the answer. Only problem? The answer might just lie at the end

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Book Synopsis''A sublime eco adventure.'' The TimesFrom the Costa Award winning author of Voyage of the Sparrowhawk comes an epic adventure with a call to arms: we must fight to save the most treasured things on our planet.On the top of the hill, overlooking the sea, that''s where you''ll find a magical place . . .To Bea and Raffy, Ravenwood is home. In its own way, the house rescued them, even if it did have a fallen-down tree taking up most of the kitchen. So the idea that it could be sold. Demolished even. Well, that''s unthinkable. Then again, it''s not like the children get a choice. But the truth is, we can all make our own choices, especially if we care enough . . .A beautiful, soulful, exciting story about holding onto what''s precious, and guarding the extraordinary nature that surrounds us.''A triumph.'' The Times''A captivating feat of storytelling.'' The Sunday Times''A moving and compelling

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