Children’s / Teenage fiction: School stories

Book SynopsisThe hilarious new sequel to The Extremely Embarrassing Life of Lottie Brooks by the bestselling creator of Hurrah for Gin.Lottie Brooks is back for spring term at secondary school and ready to face anything. No more trying to impress mean girl Amber. And absolutely no more being nicknamed Cucumber Girl.A lead role in the spring musical gives Lottie a chance to dazzle her mega-crush Daniel with her talent as a singing crab but it''s not all singing and dancing at Kingswood High. Lottie''s friendship with Molly and Jess seems to be falling apart no matter how hard she tries to keep her BFFs together.Is Lottie on track for another epic friendship fail?Perfect for readers aged 9-12 and for fans of Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging, Dork Diaries and Wimpy Kid.Readers LOVE Lottie Brooks:My daughter couldn''t put it down and read it in 2 days. Read at breakfast, walking downstairs, tea time, in the bath. My 9-year-old daughter devoured it in two nights, and all I could hear from her was giggling and the occasional Mum! Listen to this! This is SO me!.My 12 year old reluctant reader took this book, read 100 pages in one night and proclaimed it ''the best book ever''Katie has managed to capture the essence of what this group think and feel in a positive, life-affirming fashion''Have you read all of Lottie''s embarrassing diaries?Book 1: The Extremely Embarrassing Life of Lottie BrooksBook 2: The Catastrophic Friendship Fails of Lottie BrooksBook 3: The Mega-Complicated Crushes of Lottie BrooksBook 4: Lottie Brooks''s Totally Disastrous School-TripBook 5: The Completely Chaotic Christmas of Lottie BrooksBook 6: The Majorly Awkward BFF Dramas of Lottie BrooksAvailable to pre-order now: Lottie Brooks''s Totally Essential Guide to Life

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Book SynopsisLoved by millions of readers worldwide, let the second story in the greatest children's book series of all time take you on an unforgettable journey. The hope and wonder of Harry Potter's world will make you want to escape to Hogwarts again and again. There's magic on every page!Harry Potter's summer has included the worst birthday ever, doomy warnings from a house-elf called Dobby and rescue from the Dursleys by his friend Ron Weasley in a magical flying car! Back at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry for his second year, Harry hears strange whispers echo through empty corridors and then the attacks start. Students are found as though turned to stone Dobby's sinister predictions seem to be coming true.J.K. Rowling's enduringly popular Harry Potter books continue to captivate new generations of readers. Harry's second adventure alongside his friends, Ron and Hermione, invites you to explore even more of the wizarding world; from the waving, wallopingTrade ReviewI’ve yet to meet a ten-year-old who hasn’t been entranced by its witty, complex plot and the character of the eponymous Harry * Independent *Spellbinding, enchanting, bewitching stuff * Mirror *Teachers say a chapter can silence the most rowdy of classes * Guardian *One of the greatest literary adventures of modern times * Sunday Telegraph *The Harry Potter stories will join that small group of children’s books which are read and reread into adulthood * TLS *

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Book SynopsisLoved by millions of readers worldwide, let the first story in the greatest children's book series of all time take you on an unforgettable journey. The hope and wonder of Harry Potter's world will make you want to escape to Hogwarts again and again. The magic starts here! Harry Potter has never even heard of Hogwarts when the letters start dropping on the doormat at number four, Privet Drive. Addressed in green ink on yellowish parchment with a purple seal, they are swiftly confiscated by his grisly aunt and uncle. Then, on Harry's eleventh birthday, a great beetle-eyed giant of a man called Rubeus Hagrid bursts in with some astonishing news: Harry Potter is a wizard, and he has a place at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. An incredible adventure is about to begin.J.K. Rowling's enduringly popular Harry Potter books continue to captivate new generations of readers. Harry's first adventure alongside his friends, Ron and Hermione, will whisk you away Trade ReviewI’ve yet to meet a ten-year-old who hasn’t been entranced by its witty, complex plot and the character of the eponymous Harry * Independent *Spellbinding, enchanting, bewitching stuff * Mirror *Teachers say a chapter can silence the most rowdy of classes * Guardian *One of the greatest literary adventures of modern times * Sunday Telegraph *The Harry Potter stories will join that small group of children’s books which are read and reread into adulthood * TLS *

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Book SynopsisWINNER OF THE BLUE PETER BOOK AWARD (UK) 2019 WINNER OF THE WATERSTONES CHILDREN'S BOOK PRIZE (UK) 2019 WINNER OF THE SAKURA MEDAL (JAPAN) 2020 WINNER OF THE CHILDREN'S COWBELL AWARD (SWITZERLAND) 2021 WINNER OF THE PRIX JANUSZ KORCZAK PRIZE (FRANCE) 2022 'There used to be an empty chair at the back of my class, but now a new boy called Ahmet is sitting in it. He's a refugee who's run away from a War. A real one. With bombs and fires and bullies that hurt people. And the more I find out about him, the more I want to help ... That's where my best friends Josie, Michael and Tom come in. Because you see, together we've come up with a plan...'On a perfectly ordinary school day, something extraordinary happens: a boy with pale skin, lion eyes and a tattered red rucksack walks in. Unable to speak English and seated at the back of the class, Ahmet 'the refugee kid' becomes the perfect target for bullies and rumours alike.But Ahmet has also captured the attention and empathy of a fellow classmate, who will do anything to help him find his family. Even if that involves a plan - or five, and the Queen herself!Told with heart and humour, The Boy at the Back of the Class is a child's perspective on the refugee crisis, highlighting the importance of friendship and kindness in a world that doesn't always make sense.With beautiful illustrations by Pippa Curnick*BEAUTIFUL GOLD FOIL ANNIVERSARY EDITION NOW AVAILABLE - FIND IT UNDER 'ALL FORMATS AND EDITIONS'*Trade ReviewRaul's book is at once tearjerking and chuckle-inducing and will go a long way to restore faith in human nature. * Sunday Post *Onjali Raúf's debut, The Boy at the Back of the Class (Orion), illustrated by Pippa Curnick, offers a child's eye view and an ambitious, adventure-filled plot. When a new boy is introduced at school, no one is exactly sure where he has come from; what is a "refugee kid", anyway, and how can Ahmet be helped to feel that he belongs? Though the narrator's voice is overly young at times, this is a lovely, warm-hearted first novel, a celebration of courage and friendship leavened with mischief. * The Guardian *Rauf's touching debut could hardly be more topical. Syrian refugee Ahmet is struggling to adapt to his new life in London, until our nine-year-old narrator and friends come up with a very clever plan to reunite him with his lost family. Utterly delightful, Rauf's book centres on the importance of friendship and encourages children not to fear those who are different'. * The Mail On Sunday *Bravely tackling the difficult issue of refugees, The Boy At The Back of The Class is about a Syrian refugee arriving in a class in the UK that shows us how children can sometimes get it so much better than adults. * Angels & Urchins *This is a powerful story about friendship and kindness. * Family Traveller *This book's greatest strength is how it conveys the motive nature of its main theme (the refugee crisis) in a way that opens up conversations instead of shutting them down. 'The Boy At The Back of The Class' is not only a well-written book that begs the reader to keep reading, but also one that opens up a dialogue that we need to be having with our young people. * TES *

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Book SynopsisLottie Brooks continues to navigate the many perils of growing up in this fantastically funny illustrated series for a 9-12 audience, filled with friendship, embarrassing moments and plenty of lols.Woe is me. So much is wrong in my life...Still look like a tomatoAm stuck indoors whilst my friends go bowling without me (rude)My parents are leaving me to go out on a ''Date Night''. GROSS!After a summer of meeting handsome French boys and getting a tiny bit sunburnt. OK, fine - a lot sunburnt, Lottie''s heading off on a week-long residential school trip. A whole week away from embarrassing parents and Toby''s tasty air biscuits!But the trip soon turns into a total disaster. The other girls staying at the camp are MEGA-MEAN, best friend Jess is spending all her time with new girl Isha, and Lottie''s diary gets stolen!Who knew a school trip could cause so much DRAMA?!Perfect for fans of Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging, Dork Diaries and Wimpy Kid.Readers LOVE Lottie Brooks:My daughter couldn''t put it down and read it in 2 days. Read at breakfast, walking downstairs, tea time, in the bath. My 9-year-old daughter devoured it in two nights, and all I could hear from her was giggling and the occasional Mum! Listen to this! This is SO me!.My 12 year old reluctant reader took this book, read 100 pages in one night and proclaimed it ''the best book ever''Katie has managed to capture the essence of what this group think and feel in a positive, life-affirming fashion''Have you read all of Lottie''s embarrassing diaries?Book 1: The Extremely Embarrassing Life of Lottie BrooksBook 2: The Catastrophic Friendship Fails of Lottie BrooksBook 3: The Mega-Complicated Crushes of Lottie BrooksBook 4: Lottie Brooks's Totally Disastrous School-TripBook 5: The Completely Chaotic Christmas of Lottie BrooksBook 6: The Majorly Awkward BFF Dramas of Lottie BrooksAnd also available from Lottie: Lottie Brooks''s Totally Essential Guide to Life

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Book SynopsisZog is the keenest dragon in school. He's also the most accident-prone,flying into trees and even setting his own wing on fire. Luckily, a mysterious little girl always comes by and patches uphis bumps and bruises. But will she be able to help Zog with histoughest test: capturing a princess?

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Book SynopsisTHE ONE WITH THE HOME IMPROVEMENTSThe fourteenth laugh-out-loud, fully-illustrated Diary of a Wimpy Kid book from #1 international bestselling author Jeff Kinney! A global phenomenon with 250 million copies of the series sold worldwide!Big changes are in store for Greg Heffley and his family. They are making home improvements!But with unwelcome critters, toxic mould and the walls coming down, soon Greg discovers renovations aren''t all they are cracked up to be.When the dust finally settles, will the Heffleys be able to stay . . . or will they need to get out of town?WHAT''S IN DIARY OF A WIMPY KID?50% words, 50% cartoons, 100% hilarious!Stories that all readers can''t wait to get their hands onLaughter guaranteed!*BRAND NEW* DIARY OF A WIMPY KID: THE DEEP END IS OUT NOW! And DON''T MISS an all-new fantasy from Greg''s best friend in Rowley Jefferson''s Awesome Friendly Adventure, the follow-up to the instant #1 bestseller Diary of an Awesome Friendly Kid: Rowley Jefferson''s Journal.''Kinney is right up there with J K Rowling as one of the bestselling children''s authors on the planet'' IndependentHave you read all the DIARY OF A WIMPY KID series?Diary of a Wimpy KidDiary of a Wimpy Kid: Roderick RulesDiary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last StrawDiary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog DaysDiary of a Wimpy Kid: The Ugly TruthDiary of a Wimpy Kid: Cabin FeverDiary of a Wimpy Kid: The Third WheelDiary of a Wimpy Kid: Hard LuckDiary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long HaulDiary of a Wimpy Kid: Old SchoolDiary of a Wimpy Kid: Double DownDiary of a Wimpy Kid: The GetawayDiary of a Wimpy Kid: The MeltdownDiary of a Wimpy Kid: Wrecking BallDiary of a Wimpy Kid: The Deep End - the BRAND NEW Wimpy Kid book - out now!!

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Book SynopsisThe sparkling debut children's novel from David Walliams, number one bestseller and fastest growing children's author in the country, with sparkling new cover look to tie in with later books.Trade Review‘[Walliams’ books] are brilliantly, beautifully and seemingly effortlessly written … Mr Dahl finally has a worthy successor’ Telegraph ‘Walliams understands something crucial about children and stories’ Metro “A great comic tale… Walliams is a natural wit” – Evening Standard "Well written, funny, touching" – Observer "A passionate celebration of individuality" – Telegraph "Believable characters and a story that's original and intriguing” ***** – Heat “Charming, funny” – The Times “Has a lovely, Dahlian fluency to it” – Time Out

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Book SynopsisGREG HEFFLEY AND SPORTS JUST DON''T MIX.After a disastrous competition at school, Greg decides that he''s officially retired from ANY kind of sport! That is, until his mom persuades him to give it one more go and makes Greg reluctantly agree to sign up for basketball. Tryouts are a MESS, and Greg is sure he won''t make the cut. But he unexpectedly lands a spot on the worst team. As Greg and his new teammates start the season, their chances of winning even a single game look slim. But in sports, anything can happen. When everything is on the line and the ball is in Greg''s hands, will he rise to the occasion? Or will he blow his big shot?Trade ReviewHilarious * Sunday Telegraph *

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Book SynopsisLottie Brooks is BACK for more extremely embarrassing adventures as she goes on holiday and gets her very first boyfriend!THINGS THAT ARE RUBBISH IN MY LIFE: Have the most disgusting little brother in the entire world Have to get braces when am on the brink of having my first kiss Mum is making cottage pie for dinner. VOM.Finally summer has arrived and Lottie has BIG plans - scrolling through Instagram, dreaming about MEGA-crush Daniel and sunbathing by the pool on their family holiday to France.Then Lottie meets new CRUSH Antoine. The language is a tiny bit of a barrier but does it matter when he''s THAT good looking?Perfect for readers aged 9-12 and for fans of Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging, Dork Diaries and Wimpy Kid.Readers LOVE Lottie Brooks:My daughter couldn''t put it down and read it in 2 days. Read at breakfast, walking downstairs, tea time, in the bath. My 9-year-old daughter devoured it in two nights, and all I could hear from her was giggling and the occasional Mum! Listen to this! This is SO me!.My 12 year old reluctant reader took this book, read 100 pages in one night and proclaimed it ''the best book ever''Katie has managed to capture the essence of what this group think and feel in a positive, life-affirming fashion''Have you read all of Lottie''s embarrassing diaries?Book 1: The Extremely Embarrassing Life of Lottie BrooksBook 2: The Catastrophic Friendship Fails of Lottie BrooksBook 3: The Mega-Complicated Crushes of Lottie BrooksBook 4: Lottie Brooks''s Totally Disastrous School-TripBook 5: The Completely Chaotic Christmas of Lottie BrooksBook 6: The Majorly Awkward BFF Dramas of Lottie BrooksAvailable to pre-order now: Lottie Brooks''s Totally Essential Guide to Life

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Book Synopsis"For fans of Holly Jackson and Karen M McManus." The Observer"An awesome book, full of mystery, friendship and sass. ***** " The Sun"Fun, twisty and insightful...will keep you on the edge of your seat." Adiba Jaigirdar, YA Book Prize winning author of Hani and Ishu's Guide to Fake Dating"I'll make it clear from the start: I did not kill Hugh Henry Van Boren. I didn't even help. Well, not intentionally."When Hugh Henry Van Boren, one of the most popular and richest kids in Jess Choudhary's school, is found dead, the student body is left reeling and wondering who the murderer could be... Jess, a student under strict instructions to keep her record clean or risk losing her scholarship, finds herself at the centre of the investigation when it's revealed that Hugh died in the exact same way as a character in a short story she wrote.And then Jess receives an anonymous text thanking her for the inspiration.With time running out, Jess knows if she doesn't solve this mystery she'll finally have something in common with Hugh Henry. She'll be dead too.Trade ReviewAn awesome book, full of mystery, friendship and sass * The Sun *A gripping YA debut * The Guardian *[A] boarding school drama with deliciously plotted Agatha Christie-style mystery...for fans of Holly Jackson & Karen McManus. * The Observer *A satire on race and class privilege as well as a complete murder mystery, this is gripping stuff. * Daily Mail *A satisfying mystery for a winter night. * The Irish Times *At once fun, twisty, and insightful, This Book Kills is a gripping murder mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat. * Adiba Jaigirdar, YA Book Prize winning author of Hani and Ishu’s Guide to Fake Dating *Witty and fun, from a very accomplished voice, this school-set murder mystery is an exhilarating read, full of twists that the reader won't see coming. * The Bookseller *Gripping * The i *This Book Kills is a perfect example of a YA thriller done right * Culturefly *Sassy. Smart. And funny? What more could a girl want? * S.M. Wilson, author of The Extinction Trials *A wickedly plotted thriller that kept me guessing through to its end, This Books Kills is not only mysterious and funny, it's also an insightful exploration of elitist culture. I raced through it! * Amy Beashel, author of We Are All Constellations *Brilliantly fun, twisty and dark in all the right ways. This Book Kills had such great energy and pace that I flew through it. * Tess James-Mackey, author of Someone is Watching You *This Book Kills is an entertaining whodunnit with rich characters and laugh-out-loud one-liners you only want more of. Sure to be the year's outstanding debut thriller! * Anika Hussain, author of This is How You Fall in Love *Clever, cinematic, satisfying who-dunnit that perfectly operates on so many levels. * Clare Povey *

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Book SynopsisWhen a crime needs solving, there’s only one dog for the job! Join Nell the Detective and help solve the mystery of the missing books.There once was a dog with a keen sense of smell.She was known far and wide as Detective Dog Nell.Peter’s dog Nell has an amazing sense of smell. Her ever-sniffing nose is always hard at work solving mysteries and finding all Peter’s lost toys. But Nell has other talents too . . .When she’s not cracking cases, Nell goes to school with Peter and listens to the children read. Books about dinosaurs, books about space and even books about dogs – Nell loves them all! But one day Peter and Nell arrive at school to find all the books have disappeared! Who could have taken them, and why? Luckily, Detective Dog Nell, with help from the whole class, is ready to sniff out the thief!Written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by the multi-talented illustrator and print-maker Sara Ogilvie, The Detective Dog is a fast-paced celebration of books, reading, libraries and the relationship between a little boy and his rather special dog.Trade ReviewTo look at, read aloud and listen to, this book is a delight. * The Sunday Times *A new book by Julia Donaldson is always a cause for celebration, and this latest offering is set to be another classic: a heartwarming celebration of books, libraries, reading and friendship, it's got all the trademark poetry Donaldson is renowned for, vibrantly brought to life by Ogilvie's illustrations. A surefire hit. * Huffington Post *a celebration of books and libraries, perfect for class reading * Angels & Urchins *Will make both children and parents smile. * Irish Independent *A satisfying, action-filled story perfectly told, and Sara Ogilvy's illustrations are full of character. * LoveReading4Kids *

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Book Synopsis'[A] big-hearted tale of one awkward teenager's split life between reality and the internet, the kind of book you wish that boy from Adolescence had read [...] A brilliant, heartfelt book about now.' - The Times, Children's Book of the WeekFROM THE MULTI-AWARD-WINNING AUTHOR OF STEADY FOR THIS AND KING OF NOTHING COMES A HILARIOUS NEW TEEN COMEDY ABOUT FIGURING OUT WHO YOU ARE ONLINE AND OFFLINE! Existor is the most popular guy in school. Fred is the loser with no friends. And nobody knows they're the same person. Online, Fred goes by Existor@stmarks. His alter ego is the best gamer around - constantly on a winning streak, with tonnes of followers, and the confidence to go with it.But offline, Fred's life is miserable. His dad's always working, his mum's struggling, and at school, everyone looks straight through him. Until Existor's notoriety spreads to his school, and Fred sees an opportunity: everyone listens to what Existor has to say, so why not use that?Soon, Fred is coming up with outlandish rumours about his classmates, and everyone's lapping it up. His bullies are shunned, and people are finally taking notice of him. But it's a slippery slope and Fred struggles to keep track of all the stuff he's posted as his lies start to wreak unexpected havoc.Fred will have to answer for his crimes against reality, but will he ever find someone to like him for who he really is? PRAISE FOR STEADY FOR THIS:WINNER OF THE BRANFORD BOASE AWARD 2024WINNER OF THE CHILDREN'S DIVERSE BOOK AWARD 2024SHORTLISTED FOR THE YOTO CARNEGIE MEDAL 2024SHORTLISTED FOR THE UKLA BOOK AWARD 2024SHORTLISTED FOR THE JHALAK PRIZE 2024 'Crammed with outrageously hilarious wordplay, Lessore's exuberant debut for 12+ is a southeast London celebration of teen awkwardness, creativity and silly joy.' - Guardian'Funny, original and heart-warming.' - The Times 'An engaging, positive and heart-warming read.' - BookTrustPRAISE FOR KING OF NOTHING:WINNER OF THE WATERSTONES CHILDREN'S BOOK PRIZE FOR OLDER READERS 2025SHORTLISTED FOR THE YOTO CARNEGIE MEDAL FOR WRITING 2025SHORTLISTED FOR THE UKLA BOOK AWARD 2025SHORTLISTED FOR AMAZON BOOK OF THE YEAR 2024'Rib-achingly funny, poignant, thoughtful and sly, Lessore's second novel confirms him as a uniquely talented writer.' - Guardian'Confirms [Nathanael Lessore] as a major new name in writing for younger teenagers . . . an immensely readable book.' - The Observer'This teen comedy really is very funny, while also being meaningful and heartwarming.' - iPaper (WHAT HAPPENS ONLINE by Nathanael Lessore was a Times Children's Book of the Week on 12/04/25)

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Book Synopsis''Playful, obstinate and courageously humorous ... hilarious and later heartbreaking'' Guardian''Sweet, funny, highly inventive'' Yorkshire PostThe personal, funny and poignant tale of a young refugee, from acclaimed storyteller Benjamin ZephaniahAcclaimed performance poet and novelist Benjamin Zephaniah''s honest, wry and poignant story of a young refugee left in London is of even more power and pertinence today than when it was first published.Life is not safe for Alem. His father is Ethopian, his mother Eritrean. Their countries are at war, and Alem is welcome in neither place.So Alem is excited to spend a holiday in London with his father until he wakes up to find him gone. What seems like a betrayal is in fact an act of love, but now Alem is alone in a strange country, and he must forge his own path...____________________Brilliantly written and with a real ear for dialogue, fans of Angie Thomas and Malorie Blackman will love BenjamTrade ReviewThe playful, obstinate and courageously humorous tone of Zephaniah's writing shines through ... hilarious and later heartbreaking * Alfred Hickling, Guardian on REFUGEE BOY *Sweet, funny, highly inventive * Yorkshire Post on REFUGEE BOY *Humour and innocence are both to the fore as is a sweetness of tone ... more street than poetic, and personal yet universal, Refugee Boy is well told by impassioned writer * York Press on REFUGEE BOY *A brilliant first novel * Guardian on FACE *A lively and positive account of a boy who is badly scarred in a joyriding crash, and how he comes to terms with it ... incredibly well told * Irish Times on FACE *An impressive debut, carefully researched ... Zephaniah writes wonderfully natural dialogue with the same ease as he spins out rhyming couplets * Herald on FACE *The authority with which the story is written leaves the reader no choice but to be drawn in – and indeed educated – into the world of gangsta rap, with all the appropriate vocabulary. Not for a long time have I read a book with such a 'pick me up again' factor * Independent on Sunday on GANGSTA RAP *A fairytale of hip-hop success ... teens will enjoy the thrilling music fantasy, while many will identify with the smart, talented boys who grow up quickly and rescue themselves * Booklist on GANGSTA RAP *Benjamin Zephaniah rides straight through everybody's taboos, everybody's prejudices, everybody's niceties and gets straight to the heart of the matter … Strong, honest, democratic, accessible to all, Teacher's Dead comes highly recommended * The Bookbag's Jill Murphy on TEACHER'S DEAD *

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Book SynopsisThis was Mom's idea, not mine. But if she thinks I'm going to write down my "feelings" in here or whatever, she's crazy. The only reason I agreed to do this at all is because I figure later on when I'm rich and famous, this book is gonna come in handy. But for now I'm stuck with a bunch of morons.Trade ReviewThe world has gone crazy for Jeff Kinney's Diary of a Wimpy Kid series * Sun *Kinney is right up there with JK Rowling as one of the bestselling children's authors on the planet * Independent *Hilarious! * Sunday Telegraph *The most hotly anticipated children's book of the year is here - Diary of a Wimpy Kid * The Big Issue *

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Book SynopsisTHE ONE WITH THE VALENTINE''S DANCEThe seventh laugh-out-loud, fully-illustrated Diary of a Wimpy Kid book from #1 international bestselling author Jeff Kinney! A global phenomenon with 250 million copies of the series sold worldwide!Greg Heffley''s school is holding a Valentine''s Day dance, and it''s turned his world upside down.It''s everyone for themselves as they scramble to find a date for the big day, and Greg''s determined NOT to be left partner-less. His best friend, Rowley, doesn''t have any prospects either but that''s a small consolation...To make matters worse, his Uncle Gary has moved in and is taking over the whole house.Will Greg be lucky in love and get his home back?WHAT''S IN DIARY OF A WIMPY KID? 50% words, 50% cartoons, 100% hilarious! Stories that all readers can''t wait to get their hands on Laughter guaranteed! *BRAND NEW* DIARY OF A WIMPY KID: THE DEEP END IS OUT NOW! And DON''T MISS an all-new fantasy from Greg''s best friend in Rowley Jefferson''s Awesome Friendly Adventure, the follow-up to the instant #1 bestseller Diary of an Awesome Friendly Kid: Rowley Jefferson''s Journal. ''Kinney is right up there with J K Rowling as one of the bestselling children''s authors on the planet'' Independent Have you read all the DIARY OF A WIMPY KID series? Diary of a Wimpy Kid Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Roderick Rules Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Ugly Truth Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Cabin Fever Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Third Wheel Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Hard Luck Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Old School Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Double Down Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Getaway Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Meltdown Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Wrecking Ball Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Deep End - the BRAND NEW Wimpy Kid book - out now!!Trade ReviewThe world has gone crazy for Jeff Kinney's Diary of a Wimpy Kid series * Sun *Kinney is right up there with J K Rowling as one of the bestselling children's authors on the planet * Independent *

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Book SynopsisTrade Review"Academic rivals portrayed to perfection… An all-time top favorite." —Chloe Gong, #1 New York Times bestselling author of These Violent Delights and Our Violent Ends "Utterly unique, thought-provoking, and wonderfully written, If You Could See the Sun was a thrilling ride that hooked me from start to finish. Ann Liang is a fantastic new voice in YA!" —Gloria Chao, author of American Panda and Rent a Boyfriend"Absolutely breathtaking. If You Could See the Sun is a clever, compassionate examination of class, privilege, and the American Dream, with characters you can't help but root for. Liang is a rising star in YA fiction." —Grace D. Li, New York Times bestselling author of Portrait of a Thief"Liang’s debut is dark academia at its finest with a supernatural twist. You can’t help but root for Alice when secrets and blackmail rise to the surface at Airington." —Roselle Lim, author of Natalie Tan’s Book of Luck and FortuneAN INDIE NEXT PICKA YALSA BEST FICTION FOR YOUNG ADULTS SELECTIONA BUZZFEED BEST YA BOOK OF THE YEARA POPSUGAR BEST YA BOOK OF THE YEAR"An intriguing genre-crossing debut." —Kirkus Reviews"Liang paints a clear picture of what it’s like to struggle for certain advantages that are seemingly handed to others, skillfully exploring themes of classism and privilege via a sympathetic protagonist who feels—sometimes literally—invisible." —Publishers Weekly"Smart, funny, and poignant, this book is a tremendously fun read... This debut will satisfy any reader looking for a fun caper with a dash of magic." —Booklist"A very entertaining and fun commentary on deep social issues, this book is set to be a classic." —NPR

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Book SynopsisLife at Wigglesbottom Primary is often lived on the edge. A class talent show becomes a thing of great mystery and intrigue when it turns out that Jacob Barry's stinky shoe can PREDICT THE FUTURE! Or filled with peril when the boys' toilets become HAUNTED! And then there's the CURSE that lives in the story-time carpet...

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Book SynopsisJacqueline Wilson (Author) Jacqueline Wilson wrote her first novel when she was nine years old, and she has been writing ever since. She is now one of Britain's bestselling and most beloved children's authors. She has written over 100 books and is the creator of characters such as Tracy Beaker and Hetty Feather. More than forty million copies of her books have been sold.As well as winning many awards for her books, including the Children's Book of the Year, Jacqueline is a former Children's Laureate, and in 2008 she was appointed a Dame.Jacqueline is also a great reader, and has amassed over 20,000 books, along with her famous collection of silver rings.Find out more about Jacqueline and her books at www.jacquelinewilson.co.ukNick Sharratt (Illustrator) Nick Sharratt has written and illustrated many books for children including Shark in the Park, You Choose and Pants. He has won numerous awards for his picture books, including the Sheffield Children's Book Award and the 2001 Children's Book Award. He has also enjoyed stellar success illustrating Jacqueline Wilson's books. Nick lives in Hove.Trade ReviewHas all the Jacqueline Wilson hallmarks of humour, good sense and a profound realism * Independent *Highly entertaining * TES *As ever, Wilson is thought-provoking rather than preachy * Guardian *In this funny and touching story by the fantastic Jacqueline Wilson, young readers are encouraged to explore the worries of bullies, disabilities and making new friends * Waterstones Books Quarterly *

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Book SynopsisTHE ONE WITH THE BIG BROTHERThe second laugh-out-loud, fully-illustrated Diary of a Wimpy Kid book from #1 international bestselling author Jeff Kinney! A global phenomenon with 250 million copies of the series sold worldwide! It''s a brand-new year and a brand-new journal and Greg Heffley is keen to put the humiliating (and secret!) events of last summer firmly behind him. But someone knows everything, someone whose job it is to most definitely not keep anything embarrassing of Greg''s private: his big brother, Rodrick. Can Greg make it through this new school year with his cool(ish) reputation intact?WHAT''S IN DIARY OF A WIMPY KID? 50% words, 50% cartoons, 100% hilarious! Stories that all readers can''t wait to get their hands on Laughter guaranteed! *BRAND NEW* DIARY OF A WIMPY KID: THE DEEP END IS OUT NOW! And DON''T MISS an all-new fantasy from Greg''s best friend in Rowley Jefferson''s Awesome Friendly Adventure, the follow-up to the instant #1 bestseller Diary of an Awesome Friendly Kid: Rowley Jefferson''s Journal. ''Kinney is right up there with J K Rowling as one of the bestselling children''s authors on the planet'' Independent Have you read all the DIARY OF A WIMPY KID series?Diary of a Wimpy KidDiary of a Wimpy Kid: Roderick RulesDiary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last StrawDiary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog DaysDiary of a Wimpy Kid: The Ugly TruthDiary of a Wimpy Kid: Cabin FeverDiary of a Wimpy Kid: The Third WheelDiary of a Wimpy Kid: Hard LuckDiary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long HaulDiary of a Wimpy Kid: Old SchoolDiary of a Wimpy Kid: Double DownDiary of a Wimpy Kid: The GetawayDiary of a Wimpy Kid: The MeltdownDiary of a Wimpy Kid: Wrecking BallDiary of a Wimpy Kid: The Deep End Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Big Shot - THE BRAND NEW NOVEL COMING SOON - PRE-ORDER NOW! Trade ReviewThe world has gone crazy for Jeff Kinney's Diary of a Wimpy Kid series * Sun *Kinney is right up there with J K Rowling as one of the bestselling children's authors on the planet * Independent *Hilarious! * Sunday Telegraph *The most hotly anticipated children's book of the year is here - Diary of a Wimpy Kid * The Big Issue *

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewA wonderful zany story * Daily Telegraph *'A lovely sparkly book' * Observer *Readers can't fail to warm to Mildred Hubble * Book Trust *A hugely entertaining story with wonderful illustrations, too * LoveReading4Kids *Jill Murphy is one of the most engaging writers and illustrators for children in the land * Observer *Millions of young readers have fallen under the spell of Jill Murphy's Worst Witch * Sunday Express *

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Book Synopsis The first unputdownable mystery in the thrilling and bestselling SCARLET AND IVY series, perfect for fans of MURDER MOST UNLADYLIKE, SINCLAIR’S MYSTERIES and THE SCHOOL FOR GOOD AND EVIL. This is the story of how I became my sister… Trade ReviewPraise for the Scarlet and Ivy series:“I loved this book as it is a true page-turning, nail-biting mystery. The author has very cleverly hidden clues in the story and lets us solve the mystery as well. I read it in less than a day. It is gripping and keeps you begging for more.” Guardian.com, children’s reviews

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Book SynopsisA moving, lyrical picture book about a shy child unlocking the power of their own voice through poetry, with the helping hand of an extra special teacher, written by multi-award winning poet and Waterstones Children's Laureate Joseph Coelho. From the creators of If All The World Were, winner of the 2019 Independent Book Shop Picture Book Award which has been translated into 13 languages, this beautifully illustrated, powerful and heartwarming text shows children that everyone's voice can be powerful and beautiful, however small.   Allison Colpoys’ gorgeous artwork spills from every page as she shows this most heartwarming of tales. Follow a child who is so shy she doesn't speak. With the encouragement on an enchanting and magical teacher, she writes a poem. But a poem is meant to be read aloud! She musters all her courage, stands at the front of Trade ReviewEditor's Choice – '[An] inspirational and very beautiful story about a child unlocking the power of their own voice. Splashed with eye-catching bright neon colours, it’s an exuberant celebration of many things: teachers, language, bravery and perseverance.' * The Bookseller *‘a lesson in what picture books can – and should – be: uplifting, diverse, and a lot of fun.’ * The Independent *‘My Beautiful Voice is a must-read for any child who struggles with shyness, or isn't yet sure of their place in the world.’ * Irish Examiner *‘The gorgeous My Beautiful Voice by Joseph Coelho, illustrated by Allison Colpoys, is a story that unfurls as delicately as a flower, infused with Colpoys’ glowing swirls of colour.’ * The Guardian *‘A sensitive and beautiful portrayal of anxiety, shyness and the positive life enhancing power of poetry.’ * LoveReading4Kids *A ‘beautifully illustrated, powerful text.’ * SLOAN! Magazine *'A beautiful, poetic picture book which has an important message about developing confidence and finding a voice in a busy classroom.' * The School Librarian *‘A gentle story that pays homage to the people that sometimes come into our lives to guide us through difficult times, and the power of a fantastic teacher.’ * BookTrust *

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Book SynopsisFrom the winner of the Roald Dahl Funny Prize, the Red House Children'sBook Award, the Waterstones Children's Book Prize and theBlue Peter Best Story Book Award 2013, comes the seventh amazinginstalment of Tom Gates' adventures - now in paperback!

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Book SynopsisDaisy Wells and Hazel Wong have returned to Deepdean for a new school term, but nothing is the same. There's a new Head Girl, Elizabeth Hurst, and a team of Prefects - and these bullying Big Girls are certainly not good eggs. Then, after the fireworks display on Bonfire Night, Elizabeth is found - murdered.Trade ReviewJolly gripping stuff * The Times *Another cracking mystery * Sunday Express *It's Agatha Christie for nine-year-olds with psychological insight from our Chinese heroine. Golly! * Spectator *Enough twists and turns to satisfy young readers . . . An exciting story * Sun *In her Murder Most Unladylike series, Robin Stevens has cleverly created a crossbreed of the detective and boarding school genres. The closeted, parent-free environment of Deepdean School for Girls provides a fertile breeding ground for intrigue and speculation. In this fourth title, the head girl Elizabeth - a tyrant in a gym slip - is murdered on Bonfire Night * Telegraph *

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Book SynopsisThe must-read middle-grade novel from the author of the super-spooky Dread Wood series. Perfect for 9+ fans of R.L.Stine's Goosebumps and Stranger Things. Jennifer Killick has become the go-to horror writer for readers aged nine and over readers are as likely to howl with laughter as with terror. The Sunday Times Welcome to Hazard. An ordinary town where strangeness is a way of life. A town where sink holes appear with no warning, where people go missing way too often and where things really DO go bump in the night To Travis and his classmates, Hazard is home. But when they're set a school project to investigate the history of the town, they soon realise that something strange and alien lies beneath Hazard. What can they learn from their investigations into the mysterious witch in the woods? And if the witch really does exist will they make it home to tell the tale ?

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Book SynopsisJulia Donaldson is the author of some of the world's best-loved children's books, including modern classics The Gruffalo and The Gruffalo's Child, which together have sold over 17 million copies worldwide, and the hugely successful What the Ladybird Heard adventures. Julia also writes fiction, including the Princess Mirror-Belle books illustrated by Lydia Monks, as well as poems, plays and songs and her brilliant live shows are always in demand. She was Children's Laureate 201113 and has been honoured with a CBE for Services to Literature. Julia and her husband Malcolm divide their time between West Sussex and Edinburgh.Rebecca Cobb is one of the most talented names in picture books. Since graduating from Falmouth College of Arts, she has created a number of well-received picture books, including the heart-breakingly beautiful Missing Mummy and the critically acclaimed Aunt Amelia. Rebecca won the Waterstones Children's Book Prize fTrade ReviewIn the hands of star author and illustrator, it all makes for an exceptionally satisfying adventure for young readers, with much they’ll recognise, much to make them wonder. * Lovereading4kids *Here is a partnership that really works and once again has resulted in that treasure - a perfect read aloud, whether to the child at bedtime or to the whole class. * Books for Keeps *

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Book SynopsisYou''re the new girl in school. You''re just trying to fit in - and it''s not working. Then someone accuses you of theft, and you think things can''t get any worse. Until you get caught in a freak storm . . .The next thing you know, you''re in the future. Being shot at for being out after curfew. You don''t even recognise your hometown. And you''re heading for a confrontation from your worst nightmare.What if you could change the past to save the future?Trade ReviewImpossible to put down * Sunday Telegraph *Gripping tale * Independent on Sunday *An exciting and ambitious story . . . Behind the fast-moving adventure and the gadgets and gizmos of the 21st century, however, lies a moral tale which successfully raises important issues about conscience, society and human behaviour * TES *Gets off to an exciting start and the tension never lets up * Newcastle upon Tyne Evening Chronicle *

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Book SynopsisTHE ONE WHERE GREG NEEDS A NEW FRIENDThe eighth laugh-out-loud, fully-illustrated Diary of a Wimpy Kid book from #1 international bestselling author Jeff Kinney! A global phenomenon with 250 million copies of the series sold worldwide!Things haven''t been going all that well for Greg Heffley recently.For one thing, his best friend Rowley has a GIRLFRIEND, so now Greg is in the market for a new best friend. But after he''s spent so long training him to be the perfect best friend, finding a ''new Rowley'' won''t be easy.And to top it off, his family (including his feral cousins) are coming to stay. Can Greg improve his luck before it''s too late?WHAT''S IN DIARY OF A WIMPY KID? 50% words, 50% cartoons, 100% hilarious! Stories that all readers can''t wait to get their hands on Laughter guaranteed! *BRAND NEW* DIARY OF A WIMPY KID: THE DEEP END IS OUT NOW! And DON''T MISS an all-new fantasy from Greg''s best friend in Rowley Jefferson''s Awesome Friendly Adventure, the follow-up to the instant #1 bestseller Diary of an Awesome Friendly Kid: Rowley Jefferson''s Journal. ''Kinney is right up there with J K Rowling as one of the bestselling children''s authors on the planet'' Independent Have you read all the DIARY OF A WIMPY KID series? Diary of a Wimpy Kid Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Roderick Rules Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Last Straw Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Dog Days Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Ugly Truth Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Cabin Fever Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Third Wheel Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Hard Luck Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Old School Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Double Down Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Getaway Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Meltdown Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Wrecking Ball Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Deep End - the BRAND NEW Wimpy Kid book - out now!!Trade ReviewKinney is right up there with JK Rowling as one of the bestselling children's authors on the planet * Independent *

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book SynopsisA million copies sold ‘With a bolt of lightning on my kicks . . . The court is SIZZLING. My sweat is DRIZZLING. Stop all that quivering. Cuz tonight I'm delivering’ 12-year-old Josh and his twin Jordan have basketball in their blood. They’re kings of the court, star players for their school team. Their father used to be a champion player and they each want nothing more than to follow in his footsteps. Both on and off the court, there is conflict and hardship which will test Josh’s bond with his brother. In this heartfelt novel in verse, the boys find that life doesn’t come with a play-book and it's not all about winning.Trade Review"This novel in verse is rich in character and relationships . . . Poet Alexander deftly reveals the power of the format to pack an emotional punch" * Kirkus, starred review *"Alexander has crafted a story that vibrates with energy and heat and begs to be read aloud. A slam dunk." * School Library Journal, starred review *"The poems dodge and weave with the speed of a point guard driving for the basket . . . swings from moments of swagger-worthy triumph to profound pain." * Publishers Weekly, starred review *"Full of heartbreak and exhilaration" * Metro, The Best Books for Young Minds *"Mesmerising... a beautifully constructed and powerfully emotional novel." * Irish Times *

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Book SynopsisThis takes the form of Tom's battered homework diary - crammed with his doodles and stories. "No school for two whole weeks! (Yeah!) I can forget ALL about lessons (and irritating things like Marcus Meldrew). And concentrate on good stuff like: Inventing new ways to annoy my sister Delia. Band practice for DOGZOMBIES (with my mate Derek)..."

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Book SynopsisDavey is the new boy in class and Sam can''t stand him. He thinks Davey is a Grade A moron. But when the two are thrown together Sam discovers that Davey''s eccentric way of looking at the world makes life a lot more fun. Until the day something terrible happens...A funny and sad story, told completely in verse.Trade ReviewMalorie Blackman is acknowledged as one of today's most imaginative and convincing writers * Book Trust *One of the most original and moving books of the year . . . an absolutely remarkable book * Daily Mail *Inspired writing . . . it flows like melted butter and glistens as it goes . . . Blackman knows her verse forms and uses them to brilliant effect * Guardian *It is funny and poignant and Blackman's use of language is wonderfully economic. This is a masterpiece of writing and a book for all ages * TES *It soon develops into a cautionary tale about the way that both a friendship and a child's originality is destroyed by peer pressure. What makes it even more unusual is that it is told out of the mind of the boy who brought about the destruction. Blackman threads humour into the tragedy and (just) succeeds in giving us something to hope for * Independent *

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Book SynopsisWelcome to Nikki Maxwell's aDORKable world in the third book in the mega-selling Dork Diaries series – now with over 50 million copies in print worldwide!Nikki's school is holding a talent competition and Nikki can't wait to start practising dance moves with her BFFs, Chloe and Zoey, and impressing Brandon, her crush, with her singing skills! But then Nikki finds out that her arch-nemesis, MacKenzie, is entering the contest too, and she's determined to steal the limelight from Nikki and her friends. Can a dork like Nikki take on the most popular girl in school and win? With a HUGE global fanbase, Dork Diaries is the perfect series for fans of Lottie Brooks, Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Tom Gates. Don’t miss out! I LOVE PARIS, the brand new DORK DIARIES, is out now! Have you read all the DORK DIARIES serie

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Book SynopsisSeeing Delia without her sunglasses on is a BIG shock, but that'snothing compared with the surprise Dad has in store for me withhis new found fitness regime. He says he's going to compete at mySport's Day. Shame! Meanwhile Derek, Norman and I keep practicingin DOGZOMBIES so we're really ready for the school Talent Show.

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Book SynopsisTHE ONE WITH THE WINTER BATTLE! *The thirteenth laugh-out-loud, fully illustrated bestselling Wimpy Kid book!* Snow has shut down Greg Heffley''s middle school! Which should be exciting, but now his neighbourhood is a wintry battlefield.And Greg and his best friend Rowley are caught in the crosshairs of territory battles, epic snowball fights and massive snow forts. Can Greg and Rowley navigate the art of war when their street goes into meltdown? Or will they even survive to see another day?ABOUT DIARY OF A WIMPY KID: 50% words, 50% cartoons, 100% hilarious! Hilarious stories that all readers can''t wait to get their hands on Laughter guaranteed! 200 million copies sold worldwide''Kinney is right up there with J K Rowling as one of the bestselling children''s authors on the planet'' - Independent

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Book SynopsisFollow The Colour Monster on a brand new adventure, as he navigates his way through his first day at school!Anna Llenas's popular Colour Monster is back, and this time he's heading off to school! But what exactly is school? A spooky castle filled with terrifying animals? A place in the sky, amongst the rainbows and clouds? From music lessons, to lunchtime, to making new friends, the Colour Monster's first day of school is filled with exciting new adventures.Trade ReviewAnna Llenas' popular Colour Monster is back and this time he's heading off to school!But what exactly is school? A spooky castle filled with terrifying animals? A place in the sky, amongst the rainbows and clouds?From music lessons and lunchtime to making new friends, the Colour Monster's first day of school is filled with exciting new adventures. * Bishop's Stortford Independent *A story about monsters will hook most children, and Anna Llenas' brightly coloured character is no exception. From spooky castles to a place in the sky, the Colour Monster tries to predict what school is like, while finding his day packed with exciting new adventures. * Grazia, 'The Best Starting School Books to Get Your Child Through This Milestone Moment' *

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Book SynopsisPrepare to be spellbound by Jim Kay's dazzling depiction of the wizarding world and much loved characters in this full-colour illustrated hardback edition of the nation's favourite children's book Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. Brimming with rich detail and humour that perfectly complements J.K. Rowling's timeless classic, Jim Kay's glorious illustrations will captivate fans and new readers alike. When a letter arrives for unhappy but ordinary Harry Potter, a decade-old secret is revealed to him that apparently he's the last to know. His parents were wizards, killed by a Dark Lord's curse when Harry was just a baby, and which he somehow survived. Leaving his unsympathetic aunt and uncle for Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, Harry stumbles upon a sinister mystery when he finds a three-headed dog guarding a room on the third floor. Then he hears of a missing stone with astonishing powers, which could be valuable, dangerous or both. An incredible adventure is about to begin!Trade ReviewKay’s illustrated edition of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone is a triumph – a book so alive it seems to jump, explode and slither out of your hands as you read * Telegraph *Seeing Jim Kay’s illustrations moved me profoundly. I love his interpretation of Harry Potter’s world, and I feel honoured and grateful that he has lent his talent to it * J.K. Rowling *The most handsome and desirable gift book of the year. It is stunning … with full colour illustrations throughout from Greenaway Medal winner Kay, who breathes incredible life into these much loved characters and locations, staying faithful to Rowling’s vision but revitalising the story for a new generation * Bookseller *One of the greatest literary adventures of modern times * Sunday Telegraph *The Harry Potter stories will join that small group of children’s books which are read and reread into adulthood * Times Literary Supplement *

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewThis thrilling novel hits all the right spots, with red herrings and twists galore. Perspective shifts between Brynn and Tripp (with a couple of flashback breaks) tell a character-driven story with family drama, plenty of buried secrets, and lovely romantic vibes. * Kirkus Reviews *McManus...brings that signature blend of high-stakes high-school drama and murderous twists readers won't see coming. * Booklist *Fans of McManus' previous five novels are in for a treat with this one * Forbes *

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Book SynopsisIt is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities' Albus DumbledoreHarry Potter can't wait for his holidays with the dire Dursleys to end. But a small, self-punishing house-elf warns Harry of mortal danger awaiting him at Hogwarts. Returning to the castle nevertheless, Harry hears a rumour about a Chamber of Secrets, holding unknown horrors for wizards of Muggle parentage. Then students are found as though turned to stone, and a terrible warning is discovered painted on the wall. The chief suspect always in the wrong place is Harry. But something much darker has yet to be unleashed.These adult editions have been stylishly redesigned to showcase Andrew Davidson's beautiful woodcut cover artwork.Trade ReviewAnd you thought wizardry was for children. Harry Potter will make you think again. He casts his spells on grown-ups too * James Naughtie *Funny, imaginative, magical … In the 2020s, thirty-something book-lovers will know each other by smug references to Diagon Alley and Quidditch * The Times *Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, unlike many sequels, is as good as its predecessor … Hogwarts is a creation of genius * Times Literary Supplement *One of the greatest literary adventures of modern times * Sunday Telegraph *Spellbinding, enchanting, bewitching stuff * Mirror *

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Book SynopsisHard-hitting, page-turning and celebratory of friendship in unlikely circumstances, Joyce Carol Oates'' sure touch with small town life hits home in her first young adult novel.Matt Donaghy is the class joker, and Ursula Riggs is the misfit loner. Neither knows the other. But when Matt is suddenly arrested on a charge of threatening to blow up the school and massacre the students, Ursula is the only one who sees through the hysteria and hypocrisy, and corroborates Matt''s story.The case is dropped, but Matt''s old friends avoid him, and his teachers treat him with kid gloves. Even Ursula, apparently his only friend during the crisis, can''t meet his eye. But Ursula can''t remain aloof when she catches Matt contemplating suicide and a strange friendship is born.Trade Review“The relationship between Ursula and Matt grows, credibly and compellingly, against a convincing high school backdrop. Readers will relate to the pressures these two experience, both at school and from their parents, and be gratified by their ability to emerge the wiser.”Publisher’s Weekly Praise for Joyce Carol Oates’ writing: "Miss Oates is one of our most audaciously talented writers. Her gift is so large, her fluency in different genres – poems, short stories, novels, essays – so great, that at times she seems to challenge the ability of readers to keep up with her."Erica Jong “One of the greatest writers of our time."John Gardner

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