Children’s / Teenage personal and social topics: Bullying, violence, abuse and peer pressure

Book SynopsisA countdown of five of the most legendary gladiators provides thrills as readers explore the lives, weapons, and battle tactics of these ancient fighters.

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Book SynopsisFor teens, confidence is key! This fully revised and updated edition of The Self-Esteem Workbook for Teens has everything you need to boost self-confidence, improve your social skills, balance social media use, and reach your goals.As a teen, it is incredibly important to have self-confidence, especially when you consider all the societal pressures teens face today, particularly about appearance and grades. Growing up in today’s world is difficult, and in the midst of all this life-related stress, it’s easy to magnify your own weaknesses and minimize—or even ignore—your true assets. This workbook can help.In this fully revised and updated second edition of The Self-Esteem Workbook for Teens, you’ll learn to develop a healthy, realistic view of yourself that includes honest assessments of your weaknesses and strengths, and you will learn to respect yourself, faults and all. You’ll also learn the difference between self-esteem and being self-centered, self-absorbed, or selfish. Finally, this book will show you how to distinguish the outer appearance of confidence from the quiet, steady, inner acceptance and humility of true self-esteem.This second edition includes practical exercises to help you deal with body image issues, be more assertive and set boundaries with others, and navigate difficult social situations—including bullying, cyberbullying and social media overload. You’ll also find activities that promote healthy thinking habits and problem solving; tips for handling criticism, setbacks, and self-doubt; and strategies for developing self-awareness, self-acceptance, and self-worth.With the right amount of self-confidence, you will have the emotional resources you need to succeed and reach your goals. This workbook can help you get started, step by step.In these increasingly challenging times, kids and teens need mental health resources more than ever. With more than 1.6 million copies sold worldwide, Instant Help Books are easy to use, proven-effective, and recommended by therapists.

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Book SynopsisA Kirkus Reviews Best Picture Book of the YearA USBBY Outstanding International Book 2024A Bank Street Best Book of the Year 2024?"Provocative, powerful, breathtakingly beautiful." ?STARRED REVIEW,Kirkus Reviews?"Both timely and timeless,evoking war and its aftermath without losing sight of hope."?STARRED REVIEW,Booklist?"Stark images in black and white lead this sympathetic wordless picture book about a girl who?s enduring the war in Ukraine."?STARRED REVIEW,Foreword Review"Breathtaking" ?Ruta Sepetys, author of Between Shades of Gray"A beautiful and heartbreaking tribute tothe resiliency of people in wartime;"? School Library Journal"A moving portrait."?New York TimesA wordless picture book portrayal of war seen through the eyes of a young girl who finds hope in the symbolism of yellow butterflies against the background of a pure blue sky. Using the colors of his national flag, Oleksandr Shatokhin has created a deeply emotional response to the conflict in Ukraine and provided a narrative full of powerful visual metaphors for readers to consider as they travel from the devastating effects of war to a place of hope for peace and the future.A portion of the sale of this book will be donated to the Universal Reading Foundation who supply children''s books to Ukraine.Back matter includes notes on sharing a wordless picture book and how to talk to children about war.

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Book SynopsisLlama Stops Teasing offers a gentle introduction to the concept of teasing for young children.This funny, charming story is the perfect way to introduce young children to teasing, and help them find ways to build empathy. Also included are suggestions for activities and ideas to talk through together to help children understand their behaviour.Llama thinks it is funny to tease others. He whispers about them and makes fun of them. But when his friends say they don''t want to play with him any more, Llama is upset. Can he start treating others more kindly?The Behaviour Matters series of picture books provide a gentle means of discussing emotions, boosting self-esteem and reinforcing good behaviour. Supports the Personal, Social and Emotional Development Area of Learning in the Early Years Foundation Stage, and is also suitable for use with children in KS1 and can be used to discuss values. Suitable for children under 5.Trade ReviewExcellent for sharing and encouraging discussion... we can all learn from the approach taken in this series. * Parents in Touch *

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Book SynopsisThe bestselling controversial novel about corruption and misuse of power in an American boys'' school.The headmaster of Trinity College asks Archie Costello, the leader of the Vigils, a secret society that rules the school, to help with the selling of 20,000 boxes of chocolates in the annual fund-raising effort. Archie sees the chance of adding to his power - he is the Assigner, handing out to the boys tasks to be performed if they are to survive in the school. Freshman, Jerry Renault, a newcomer to the corrupt regime, refuses to sell chocolates. Enormous mental and physical pressure is put on him but he will not give in - the result is an inevitable, explosive tragedy.

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Book SynopsisAge range 14+In this dark adaptation of Snow White, acclaimed artist Beatrice Alemagna tells the story from the point of view of the jealous stepmother queen, to complicate the question of goodness and set into high relief the shadow side, with its capacity for evil, of human life.Once upon a time, a child was born with skin as white as snow, lips as red as blood, and hair as black as ebony: the princess Snow White. She is possessed of beauty and innocence, but there in the shadows lurks a queen who will remarry her widower father, a queen who is as empty and envious, as narcissistic and fractured as is every life that gets stuck in the endless reflecting pool or mirror of the self. Void of love, it is hatred that animates her. But like all true fairy tales, this story doesn't ask us to judge and condemn the queen and her hatred, but rather to consider the kinds of behaviours and situations that invite evil, and where true innocence or goodness might lie. Following the first-person account of the queen, this picture book for older readers illuminates her blinding obsession and insatiable jealousy, right up to the point of her violent undoing.Told through a series of riveting, unsettling images as well as a bold adaptation of the Grimm's original text, this version of Snow White brilliantly puts us all in touch with the messy, shadowed, fraught, and fragile inwardness we each possess. This is the second book to appear under Unruly, an imprint of picture books for older readers, and will include an author's note and a short note to readers about how it continues to build this experimental framework of visually complex, sophisticated picture books for teens and adults.

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Book SynopsisMarjorie Glatt’s life hasn’t been the same ever since she discovered a group of ghosts hiding in her family’s laundromat. Wendell, who died young and now must wander Earth as a ghost with nothing more than a sheet for a body, soon became one of Marjorie’s only friends. But when Marjorie finally gets accepted by the popular kids at school, she begins to worry that if anyone learns about her secret ghost friends, she’ll be labeled as a freak who sees dead people. With Marjorie’s insistence on keeping Wendell’s ghost identity a secret from her new friends, Wendell begins to feel even more invisible than he already is. Eliza Duncan feels invisible too. She’s an avid photographer, and her zealous interest in finding and photographing ghosts gets her labeled as “different” by all the other kids in school. Constantly feeling on the outside, Eliza begins to feel like a ghost herself. Marjorie must soon come to terms with the price she pays to be accepted by the popular kids. Is it worth losing her friend, Wendell? Is she partially to blame for the bullying Eliza endures?Delicates tells a powerful story about what it means to fit in, and those left on the outside. It shows what it’s like to feel invisible, and the importance of feeling seen. Above all, it is a story of asking for help when all seems dark, and bringing help and light to those who need it most.

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Book SynopsisFully revised and updated based on reader feedback! This second edition of The Anger Workbook for Teens includes brand-new activities to help you understand and interact with your anger, and tips for managing it in constructive ways. Does your anger often get you into trouble? Do you react to situations and later regret how you behaved? Does your anger cause problems with other people? If so, you aren't alone. Between family life, friends, social media, and the pressures of school, there's no doubt that it's stressful being a teenager. And while anger is a natural human emotion, different people handle it differently. Some hold in their anger and let it build, some lash out with hurtful words and some resort to fighting. If you've noticed yourself beginning to take out your frustrations on the people you love most-your parents, brothers or sisters and friends it's time to make a change. This second edition of The Anger Workbook for Teens includes brand-new skills and activities based in clinically proven treatments such as acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to help you deal with negative thoughts without losing control. You'll find out what's triggering your anger, look at the ways you react, be more aware of your thoughts and how you interact with them, and learn skills and techniques for managing anger without losing your cool. You'll develop a personal anger profile and learn to notice the physical symptoms you feel when you become enraged, then find out how to calm those feelings and respond more sensitively to others. Once you fully understand your anger, you'll be better prepared to deal with your feelings in the moment. As you begin the activities in this workbook, it's perfectly normal to feel angrier at first. That's because you are being asked to really notice and examine the things that make you angry. But with practice, you'll learn to handle frustrating situations in real life and more effectively communicate your feelings. Most importantly, you'll learn the difference between healthy anger-the kind that can motivate you to make positive changes-and problematic anger that leads to negative consequences. Change isn't easy, but with the right frame of mind and set of skills, you can do it. This book is designed to help you understand how both your mind and body respond to anger and how you can handle this anger in more constructive ways.

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Book SynopsisThe gun is the coward's fist. The gun is power.Alex and Ethan are growing up on an estate where there are just two choices: sport or crime. Ethan is selected for a football training programme in the US, his chance to escape the gangs that terrorise his neighbourhood. But Alex is drawn into an explosive feud with a gun at its heart.In this gripping and absorbing real life thriller, Alan Gibbons explores the complex issue of gun crime, and the far reaching consequences it can have.Trade ReviewThe characters in this moving and fast-paced story are real and the dilemmas they face believable. There are no easy solutions here, but courage and integrity shine through. * Carousel *Adventurous, breath-taking and realistic -- Isaac, Bolingbroke Academy, Year 8 * Books For Keeps *Fast-paced and straight-talking, Alan Gibbons' writing always does justice to the moral complexities of the problems it sets out to explore * Book Trust *Fast-moving and tense ... A thriller that provides an insight into street violence while never glamorising it * School Librarian *

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Book SynopsisReal, compulsive and intense: Cat Clarke is the queen of emotional suspense. For fans of Jandy Nelson, Paula Hawkins, and Megan Abbott.'Emotive, creepy AND funny. A quality page-turner' SARAH CROSSAN'A new Cat Clarke novel is always something to celebrate and Girlhood could be her best yet' JUNO DAWSONHarper has tried to forget the past and fit in at expensive boarding school Duncraggan Academy. Her new group of friends are tight; the kind of girls who Harper knows have her back. But Harper can't escape the guilt of her twin sister's Jenna's death, and her own part in it - and she knows noone else will ever really understand. But new girl Kirsty seems to get Harper in ways she never expected. She has lost a sister too. Harper finally feels secure. She finally feels...loved. As if she can grow beyond the person she was when Jenna died. Then Kirsty's behaviour becomes more erratic. Why is her life a perfect mirror of Harper's? And why is she so obsessed with Harper's lost sister? Soon, Harper's closeness with Kirsty begins to threaten her other relationships, and her own sense of identity. How can Harper get back to the person she wants to be, and to the girls who mean the most to her?A darkly compulsive story about love, death, and growing up under the shadow of grief.Trade ReviewA new Cat Clarke novel is always something to celebrate and Girlhood could be her best yet * Juno Dawson *An emotionally charged, edge-of-your-seat thriller. Tension builds to a jaw-dropping crescendo as truths are revealed, loyalties are tested, and a whole lot of understanding is needed. Gripping and gratifyingly multi-layered, fans of thrillers with emotional depth will find much to love here * LoveReading4Kids *Well-written and insightful ... the story moves at a roaring pace until it reaches a thrilling and ultimately uplifting conclusion ... an easy book to get lost in * The Bookbag *Incredible - pure and simple * Writing from the Tub on Cat Clarke *Undoubtedly one of the most exciting and talented YA writers in Britain * Library Mice on Cat Clarke *I wholly, unabashedly and completely recommend this book * Inis Magazine on Cat Clarke *Clarke...succeeds brilliantly, thanks to the reality of the characters and the depth of the emotion * The Scotsman on Cat Clarke *Clarke excels at genuine page-turners and I read this in one greedy sitting * The Bookseller on Cat Clarke *There was something eery and creepy to the story that kept me on tender hooks from the very beginning. I read this book in a couple of sittings and I didn't want it to end! Cat's writing style is effortless and so easy to read that I felt that I was in a castle in Scotland myself at times. Girlhood comes out this week (May 4th) and if you haven't preordered it yet I would highly recommend it! * The YA Nightstand *I did really like the thrilling atmosphere of it and I found that the storyline wasn't predictable. I was guessing what was going to happen or what the secrets were, to find out that I couldn't have been more wrong. * The Bibliophile Girl *Cat Clarke is back with another dramatic thrill ride that knocks you a little sideways but leaves you wanting more by the time you've finished. Girlhood is an emotional rollercoaster set in a remote boarding school in Scotland. All the girls have their own little secrets but some are bigger than others and where there are secrets' there is a chance they could cause drama. Your only hope is that the drama can be contained and won't cause consequences. Brilliantly written and a real page-turner. * Sister Spooky *A darkly compulsive story about love, death, and growing up under the shadow of grief. * World Book Day *When you're that age, you are often experiencing grief for the first time. That loss can affect everyone close to you, like your friends and family, and it can be really tough to find someone to talk to. For Harper, she feels like she can't go on and on about Jenna's death to her friends, like they will get sick of it. Her misguided paranoia and the development of her grief was exactly right, even though it was predictable. Sometimes you want a story to do exactly what you expect from it. I hope many people pick up Girlhood because it was an absolute page turner and an eye opener to the contrasting ways grief is experienced. * Read by Jess *the emotions were raw, the teenage girl friendships believable, and the ending was satisfying * Heart Full of Books *I loved this book for it's complicated friendships, ominous relationships and the sense of being pulled further in to a web. It was compulsive reading and I sat up until the early hours of the morning unable to put it down. It's exactly the kind of book to disappear into on a gloomy, rainy day ... Thank all that is bookish and beautiful for Cat Clarke. Openly gay and bi characters, friendship struggles, snarky girls, secrets and lies. It's all here in Girlhood. What I would have given for this book when I was a teenager trying to find my place int he world - in a girl's school - feeling like the only gay in the village. I grew up reading boarding school stories and it's a joy to return to one now. Especially a contemporary one filled with beautifully diverse characters and lots of nods to modern politics. A fast-paced and fierce celebration of friendship not to be missed. * Rhino Reads *AUTO-BUY AUTHOR * Everything Alyce *These characters are interesting and compelling to read and the story is like The Roommate meets well actually that sums it up pretty well but the ending was not at all what I was expecting to come out of it. * The Sparkle Spy *Clarke doesn't spoon feed the reader all the answers; I felt like I was part of the group of the girls, trying to work through the problems and questions that were thrown up. * Delightful Book Reviews *I'm super excited because Cat Clarke has written one of my favourite books, Undone. This book has an interesting premise and I love the little tag line that come son the cover of the book: Sugar and spice and scars for life. * Forever Fictional *Hard-hitting storyline building up throughout which will have you intrigued from start to finish. -- Sophie Atkinson, teen reviewer * Teen Titles *I couldn't put it down. If I had to describe this book in three words I would say: exciting, confusing and dramatic. -- Arwen Richards, teen reviewers * Teen Titles *

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Book SynopsisA humorous and heart-warming tale of a billy goat who learns that bullying is bad for him and everyone else. His supportive (and forgiving!) friends teach him that respect is earned, not imposed, and this lesson helps him turn his life around and reach his dreams. A quirky read with a strong moral, charmingly illustrated throughout.

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Book SynopsisIn his first wordless picture book, Olivier Tallec shows the pointlessness of war through his smart, comic, emotionally astute illustrationsHere Tallec portrays two characters, separated only by narrow walls, who watch each other ceaselessly through the seasons. Moving between day and night, long stretches at their binoculars, and mundane daily tasks, they fight their cold war, full of suspicion, never daring to bridge the gap between them.As time passes, a snail shows up, and then a bird, and one day, to their utter surprise, they come face-to-face in a different way, and they discover that their differences don''t make them enemies.Waterloo & Trafalgar has a die-cut cover and interior section-cut flip pages, all of which contribute to allowing the reader to see things in different ways. And that, in the end, is so much of what this book is about: seeing and seeing otherwise.

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Book SynopsisCathy Cassidy has worked as an editor on Jackie magazine, a teacher and an agony aunt. She lives in Scotland with her husband, two young children and various animals.www.cathycassidy.comTrade ReviewCathy Cassidy's insight into teenage thinking is pin-point sharp while her light tone makes [her stories]sing. -- Julia Eccleshare * Lovereading4kids.co.uk *Touching, tender and unforgettable. * The Guardian *Indigo Blue is so good that I finished it in two days because once I started reading the first page I couldn't put it down! * JoJo, age 11 *

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Book SynopsisKeith was born and brought up in Grimsby and knew from an early age that he wanted to be a writer. When he received 0% for his accountancy exams he decided to pursue his dream. Since then, he has gone on to win the Angus Book Award and the silver medal in the Smarties Prize. He has twice been shortlisted for the Guardian Fiction Prize and was shortlisted for the Booktrust Teen Prize and the Scottish Arts Council Book Award. Rave reviews about his writing have appeared in every broadsheet. Keith was a judge for the Blue Peter Book Award, the Guardian Fiction Prize and the Bookstrust Teen Prize and reviews regularly for the Guardian. Keith is now a full-time writer living in Edinburgh.Trade ReviewA tense thriller founded on conveying psychology, Malarkey is a compelling British version of Robert Cormier's US classic, The Chocolate War -- Julia Eccleshare * Guardian *Ingenious and exciting -- Kit Spring * Observer *Clever, cool, suspenseful -- Nicolette Jones * The Sunday Times *A gripping and dangerous read that stays in the mind for its chilling reality, the power of the story and the quality of the writing -- Wendy Cooling * The Bookseller *Don't miss this! It's Keith Gray's best novel to date. Opening with a breathless bag chase, it doesn't let up the momentum for a second -- Michael Thorn * Achuka *

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Book SynopsisBefore I used it, the key had infinite possibilities.Eleven-year-old Elise feels stuck. Her school locker-buddy squashes her lunch and laughs at her, every day. She doesn''t want to go to school - and her best friend Franklin just makes things worse.Now I was ready for something to be different. Anything, really.One day Elise discovers an incredible secret. A secret that might just help her unlock her past, and take a chance on the future.I decided that tomorrow I would see what that key opened up. It had my name on it, after all . . .Trade ReviewFunny, moving and beautifully constructed * Independent on Sunday *A warm and inspiring tale about friendship and families with real substance and style * Sunday Times *LaFleur's writing is a delight * Daily Mail *The best book I have read all year . . . I loved it * Cathy Cassidy *

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Book SynopsisNow a major CBBC TV series. Joe All Alone won the Children's BAFTA award for Best Drama. It was also nominated for an Emmy and two other Children's BAFTA awards: Director and Young Performer. Home Alone meets Jacqueline Wilson - a heartwarming, humorous, issue novel for 10+ readers about a young boy left home alone.Trade ReviewPoignant, funny, and utterly unputdownable, Joe All Alone paints a picture of child poverty, neglect and abuse that is somehow life-affirming and heart-warming - even while it will break your heart. The brightly coloured cast of characters, from Otis the Jamaican bus-driver to Asha the girl with a big imagination and heart to match, contrast with the grim, grey reality of life for a thirteen year old kid trying to survive on a tough inner city estate. But it is Joe himself - brave, clever, resilient but also vulnerable and broken - who readers will fall in love with. There is a beautiful simplicity and lyricism to this book which make it incredibly moving and I absolutely loved it! Perfect for fans of Phil Earle or 'Fifteen Days Without a Head'. -- Catherine Bruton, author of I Predict A Riot and We Can Be Heroes.A real boy's voice, nailed hard to a tale rich with wrong decisions, hopeless plans and stabs at redemption. I loved it. -- Steve ColeFrightening and funny, bleak and tender, serious and surprising, Joe All Alone is a gem of a book that catches the heart and lifts the spirits (just like a flock of parakeets in Peckham!). -- Tanya LandmanA gripping, heart-warming contemporary story about a young teenager forced to make difficult decisions in order to survive. * Book Trust *This book highlights the best and worst of humanity while tackling these highs and lows from the beautiful, naive, vulnerable perspective of a child. A fascinating and heart-warming read for teen readers Joe All Alone will leave you longing to protect Joe and give him a big hug and you may learn to appreciate a few things about yourself and your parents that you hadn't noticed before. -- Laura Iredale * welovethisbook.com *Warning - not only will you need tissues when you read this book but you'll also need to hug someone repeatedly and be hugged yourself. And you're going to want to talk about it and possibly miss meals. Don't say I didn't warn you! -- Rhian Ivory * awfullybigreviews.blogspot.co.uk *

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Book SynopsisAt this school, there are some children who push and tease and bully. Sometimes they hurt other kids by just ignoring them.Trade Review"Moss tackles the ever-present issue of teasing by specifically talking about what someone should say when they see someone else being teased. The main character of the story sees teasing happening all around her, but at first, she stays silent. When the tables are turned on her, she quickly realizes that being an innocent bystander won't work any longer. She uses the newfound empathy to comfort other targets of bullying and prove the harmfulness of teasing and the power of friendship. The illustrations from Lea Lyon do a wonderful job of depicting the emotions of the characters and Moss even includes some discussion questions at the end to make sure the lessons really hit home." -- Kylie Hall - Teacher.org"Most appropriate for children in grades two through six but, this short, sweet story offers a lesson for all ages -(National Education Association)" -- NEA Today"Activating child bystanders...helpful in raising this issue for discussion... compelling enough to be useful to discussions... all age groups." -- New Jersey Coalition for Bullying Awareness and Prevention"...excellent resource, written with clarity, sensitivity and directness." -- Black Issues Magazine"Simple text...realistic watercolor drawings will pull readers into this story...One person can make difference is the theme..." -- Kansas City Star"K-Gr. 3 Can one person make a difference? Moss' obviously didactic book, which seems designed for group discussion about bullying, focuses on the role of the bystander, a girl who sees the sadness of the victim but does nothing ("I walk on the other side of the hall. I don't say those things"). Realistic, lively watercolor illustrations show the child in a diverse school community, where kids are picked on and called names for being slow or different. The girl feels sad for them, but she looks away--until one day, when she is alone, the bullies make her cry, and her friends do nothing. The dramatic climax is quiet: the girl reaches out to a child who always sits alone on the bus, and the children have fun together. This is one of the best of the recent books for discussion about teasing; its direct, first-person narrative and informal portraits bring close classroom, hallway, and schoolyard scenarios for kids and adults to talk about. Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved" -- Hazel Rochman - ALA

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Book SynopsisDiscover the tools you need to build your social skills and learn how to deal with a bully. The book also includes a page for caregivers and teachers that suggests guiding questions to help aid in reading comprehension. Downloadable Teacher Notes available.

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Book SynopsisThe trials of high school start to feel like a modern-day witch hunt for a teen with all the wrong connections to Salem''s past in this thrilling, creepy and romantic New York Times bestseller.I am utterly addicted to Adriana Mather's electric debut. It keeps you on the edge of your seat, twisting and turning with ghosts, witches, an ancient curse, and sigh romance. Jennifer NivenAfter Sam''s father is hospitalised, she has to move from New York to Salem with her stepmother, Vivian. Unfortunately, Sam is related to Cotton Mather, one of the men responsible for the Salem Witch Trials, and to say she feels unwelcome in Salem is an understatement... She is particularly unnerved by The Descendants, a mysterious and tight-knit group of girls related to those persecuted in the Trials. At the same time, she must deal with Elijah, the handsome but angry ghost who has appeared in her house, and her new neighbour Jaxon only complicates thingTrade ReviewI am utterly addicted to Adriana Mather’s electric debut. It keeps you on the edge of your seat, twisting and turning with ghosts, witches, an ancient curse, and – sigh – romance. It’s beautiful. Haunting. The characters are vivid and real. I. Could. Not. Put. It. Down. * Jennifer Niven, New York Times bestselling author of All the Bright Places and Holding Up the Universe *It’s like Mean Girls meets history class in the best possible way. * Seventeen.com *A captivating and highly recommended read. Teens will not want this tale to end. * School Library Journal *[A]n entertaining story that draws intriguing parallels between the 17th-century trials and modern-day bullying. * Publishers Weekly *A story about curses, peer pressure, and legacies. * B&N Teen Blog *

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Book SynopsisThree authors. Three appealing and relatable characters. One smart YA novel about a trio of unlikely friends who team up to take down the school cyberbully.ï

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Book SynopsisA powerful, compelling novel from the critically-acclaimed author of the Branford Boase-winning I Am Thunder, about making friends, and breaking them too.Fifteen-year-old Ilyas is under pressure from everyone: GCSE's are looming and his teachers just won't let up, his dad wants him to join the family business and his mates don't care about any of it. There's no space in Ilyas' life to just be a teenager.Serving detention one day, Ilyas finds a kindred spirit in Kelly Matthews, who is fed up with being pigeonholed as the good girl, and their friendship blows the social strata of high school wide open. But when Kelly catches the eye of one of the local bad boys, Imran, he decides to seduce her for a bet – and Ilyas is faced with losing the only person who understands him. Standing up to Imran puts Ilyas' family at risk, but it's time for him to be the superhero he draws in his comic-books, and go kick the moon.Kick the Moon, is Muhammad Khan's explosive second novel, with original comic-book art from Amrit Birdi, bestselling illustrator of Username:Evie.'Funny, angry, powerful' Patrice Lawrence, award-winning author of OrangeBoy'A powerful novel that encapsulates the experiences of teenage boys with wit and heroism' Nikesh Shukla, author of Run Riot '[Written] with humour and empathy' Independent'[An] ambitious, wryly funny, optimistic-against-the-odds novel' Times Literary Supplement'Khan's gift for authentic characters and believable dialogue makes his writing sing' BooksellerTrade ReviewThis book will make you angry. This book will make you laugh. Muhammad writes with humour and empathy about friendship, belonging, toxic masculinity, maths and - best of all - comic geekery. Fabulous! -- Patrice Lawrence, award-winning author of OrangeBoyA powerful novel that encapsulates the experiences of teenage boys with wit and heroism . . . Khan has created a book steeped in drama and empathy, as well as providing two iconic superheroes -- Nikesh Shukla, author of Run Riot in the Guardian[Written] with humour and empathy * Independent *Khan’s empathy and wry humour, accentuated by a deft use of slang, make this authentic and relatable * Observer *'[An] ambitious, wryly funny, optimistic-against-the-odds novel' * Times Literary Supplement *[A] sharply drawn snapshot of the exuberance, complexities and downright scariness of teenage life -- Guardian - Indie Bookshop Week IssueThis is a book about racism, toxic masculinity, bullying and finding your voice. Khan's gift for authentic characters and believable dialogue makes his writing sing -- Fiona Noble, BooksellerAn exhilarating second novel. This high school drama deals with serious matters . . . but is also a celebration of friendship -- Julia Donaldson, BookTrust books of the year 2019Despite tackling multiple, weighty concerns, this never feels laden down with issues but is a riveting read with an emphatic and believable central character. Strongly recommend. * Carousel *A resoundingly stark, thought-provoking novel with a heart that burns with hope and courage * LoveReading4Kids *[A] stunning follow-up to Khan’s excellent I Am Thunder [that] will cement his reputation as an author who can bring his characters vividly to life and talk intelligently about the pressures facing teens of all backgrounds. * crimereview.co.uk *A current and insightful read for teens with a reminder that any crisis can be overcome * South Wales Evening Post *An uplifting, empowering novel with hope at its heart -- Observer Children's Book of the Week, on I Am ThunderFunny and clever - a perspective long overdue in British fiction -- Alex Wheatle, Guardian prize-winning author of Crongton Knights, on I Am ThunderThis assured, hopeful debut feels unprecedented and essential -- Guardian, on I Am ThunderThis one is special . . . punches well above the weight of most debuts -- The Times, on I Am ThunderOne of the most distinctive narrators I've read in ages -- Fiona Noble, The Bookseller, on I Am Thunder

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Book SynopsisStop Picking On Me looks at the causes and the effects of both physical and verbal bullying and encourages communication of fears and worries to those that can help.The superb A First Look At series consists of a number of reassuring picturebooks that give advice and promote interaction between children, parents, and teachers on a wide variety of personal, social and emotional issues. Notes for parents and teachers at the back of the book provide valuable advice for how to share this book with your child or class. Suitable for Key Stage 1 (ages 5-7), occasional prompts throughout the text give a chance to discuss the issue being raised. Written by trained psychotherapist, journalist and parent, and illustrated by an experienced children's book artist, this is a part of an acclaimed and successful, long-running series of picture-book non-fiction books for Early Years. Books in the series give advice and promote interaction between children, parents and teachers on a wide variety of personal, social and emotional issues. They are excellent tools for teachers to use during classroom discussions.Trade ReviewI've not come across a series of book aimed at both children and adults in this way and think it's a good idea. * School Librarian, v.49, Spring 2001 *A good introduction to the topic, from which you can start and build on your dialogue with your daughter. * Junior *

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Book SynopsisSelected as one of the Best Young Adult Books for 2023 - Readings BooksThe thought comes to me: This is how I die. Dally is going to lose control and crash us into a pole or a house and we will be killed on impact. The justice system characterises Jamie Langton as a 'danger to society', but he's just an Aboriginal kid, trying to find his way through adolescence. Jamie lives in Dalton's Bay with Aunty Dawn and Uncle Bobby. He spends his downtime hanging out with his mates, Dally and Lenny. Mark Cassidy and his white mates - the Footy Heads - take every opportunity they can to bully Jamie and his friends. On Lenny's last night in town before moving to Sydney, after another episode of racist harassment, Jamie, Dally and Lenny decide to retaliate by vandalising Mark Cassidy's car. And when they discover the keys are in the ignition... Dally changes the plan. Soon they are all in Mark Cassidy's stolen car cruising through town, aiming to take it for a quick spin, then dump it. But it's a bad plan. And as a consequence, Jamie ends up in the youth justice system where he must find a way to mend his relationships with himself, his friends, his family and his future.'A lightning bolt to the soul. The Boy from the Mish announces a bold, necessary new talent.' WILL KOSTAKISTrade Review'What a revelation this young writer is. He is doing something no other male First Nations novelist has attempted: the YA Blak queer genre that is a glimpse into another world view, at once confronting yet heartwarming.' - Australian Book Review'It takes only a handful of pages to get drawn into Jamie's world as he confronts complicated feelings around buried resentment, racism and the realisation that life is about second chances. Lonesborough has created a cast of fully rounded characters exploring extremely heavy themes with hope and humour.' - Francis Atkinson, Sydney Morning Herald'We Didn't Think It Through is a beautifully raw and eye-opening coming of age novel about a boy trying to navigate a world that isn't fair or kind, but that is ours.' - Reading Time

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Book SynopsisGame Over tells the harrowing true story of teenager Breck Bednar, who was groomed over the internet and brutally murdered on 17 February 2014 by a supposed ‘friend’ that he met online. Breck's story is told in Mark's potent verbatim style, using the words of his family, friends and the killer. It's a shocking but deeply powerful play, with a unique 21st-century message. The play is particularly suitable for ‘socially distanced’ or online performances in students’ own homes and can be easily adapted to suit this medium. Suitable for: Key Stage 3/4, GCSE, BTEC, A-Level to adult Duration: 75 minutes approximately
 Cast: 24 characters total. 8 male, 9 female and 7 male or female. The play is suitable for a large cast and multi-roling is also possible. “[A] chilling and harrowing tale, skilfully written using the words of Breck’s family, friends and his killer. It deals with the potentially disastrous effects of social media and how to keep safe online by recognising the signs of grooming and exploitation.” Vivienne Lafferty, Trustee National Drama

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Book SynopsisPowerful, inspiring stories of perseverance and hope for children who feel alienated, out of place or overwhelmed.Each of the four stories in this collection centres around an emotionally vulnerable child.There is 7-year-old Kenya, who struggles with anxiety. Permanently scarred from an accident, the stares and sneers she endures shatters her self-worth.There is Lulu, who falls into depression following the death of her beloved Grandma. Will she ever be happy again? Abbas is a new arrival to America. Adjusting to school proves difficult because he can''t concentrate or sit still. He wonders if he''s just a bad boy. And then there is Javier, the captain of the soccer team. At school, he''s a star. At home, he''s a punching bag.With guidance, support and love from caring adults, each child finds their voice and turns their troubles into triumphs. Through their journeys, they realize three simple truths: They are special. They are strong. They did nothing wrong.Each story is a celebration of perseverance, grit and resilience. Every character''s journey toward healing and acceptance is a reminder to young readers that they, too, are strong and special, even if they sometimes feel scared, vulnerable or alone. BUTTERFLIES IN ME is from the pen of Denisha Seals. An up-and-coming artist and filmmaker, Denisha is an abuse survivor whose stories honour and celebrate the resiliency of Black and Indigenous children and children of colour.

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Book SynopsisA gold leaf appears in the forest. As soon as the animals notice it, each wants it more than anything else in the world. But in their struggle for it, the leaf is destroyed. Heartbroken, the animals wonder: Will we ever again see such a leaf? After getting an MA in early childhood education, Kirsten Hall taught preschool and elementary school for several years. The Jacket, her debut picture book, was a New York Times Notable Book of 2015. This is her second book. Born in Toronto, Matthew Forsythe grew up in London. After publishing his first books, he moved to LA, where he worked on Adventure Time. He now lives in Montreal, working on animations, picture books, and comics.

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Book SynopsisAfter Katie gets caught teasing a schoolmate, she''s told to meet with Mrs. Petrowski, the school counselor, so she can make right her wrong and learn to be a better friend. Bothered at first, it doesn''t take long before Katie realizes that bullying has hurt not only the people around her, but her, too. Told from the unusual point of view of the bullier rather than the bullied, Confessions of a Former Bully provides kids with real life tools they can use to identify and stop relational aggression.

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Book SynopsisWith queen bees, drama queens and cliquey teens girl friendships can be tough! Teen Life Confidential is here to help with this guide for teenagers looking for help surviving the friendship game.Hanging out with your best friends can be awesome, but what happens when things go wrong? Queen Bees, Drama Queens and Cliquey Teens answers your friendship problems and questions and gives advice on everything from how to cope with the bullies and mean girls at school, to how to be a better friend yourself. Written by experienced author Anita Naik, this title explores all aspects of teenage girl friendships and the problems that surround them. We look at what being popular means, the downsides of friendships and what to do when things go wrong.Includes an 8 ways to empower yourself guide. Self-esteem and self-confidence are vital when coping with girl friendships and girl bullying, so we''ve given 8 things that the reader can do every day to improve their confidence aTrade ReviewIn tune with today's teens, their language and their culture. Practical and easy-to-read, this is an important topic well described. * Parents in Touch *Table of Contents 1: Chapter One – Being popular 2: Chapter Two – Girls who rule school 3: Chapter Three – The downside of friendships 4: Chapter Four – What kind of friend are you? 5: Chapter Five – When things go wrong 6: 8 Ways to empower yourself against hurtful friends 7: Help section

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Book SynopsisSaints and Misfits—a William C. Morris Award finalist and an Entertainment Weekly Best YA Book of the Year—is a “timely and authentic” (School Library Journal, starred review) debut novel that feels like a modern day My So-Called Life…starring a Muslim teen.There are three kinds of people in my world: 1. Saints, those special people moving the world forward. Sometimes you glaze over them. Or, at least, I do. They’re in your face so much, you can’t see them, like how you can’t see your nose. 2. Misfits, people who don’t belong. Like me—the way I don’t fit into Dad’s brand-new family or in the leftover one composed of Mom and my older brother, Mama’s-Boy-Muhammad. Also, there’s Jeremy and me. Misfits. Because although, alliteratively speaking, Janna and Jeremy sound good together, we don’t go together. Same planet, different worlds.

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Book SynopsisThe sound of Sam's life was like the best piece of music you have ever heard. Everyone liked Sam, and Sam liked himself. But then one day the mud words begin and they get inside his head - and Sam can't hear the music anymore.Mud Boy is an illustrated book for ages 5-11, showing how children can go from being joyfully buoyant to totally deflated when being bullied and teased, and offering advice to get them back to their best. Mud, music and a family cat are used to conjure up the story to children in a very new and real way, showing that recovery happens through talking to others about our problems. The book also includes a guide for further talking points by Dr Pooky Knightsmith on how to discuss the topic, and the emotions that come up on reading the book, with children.Trade ReviewMud Boy is an excellent story for children about bullying. It explains the process of bullying really well, particularly the experience of being a victim. I really like how Sarah Siggs has explained the feelings of being victimised and how she uses mud as a metaphor to explain how bullied children can feel stigmatised and become ostracised by their peers. Sarah provides a useful way of how victimised children can move from feeling helpless to feeling empowered, and also helping other bullied children. There are also excellent resources at the end of the book to support adults to discuss the important issues raised in the book, including what children can do about bullying, and how they can help others who are bullies. -- Elizabeth Nassem, Educational Researcher, Birmingham City UniversityMud Boy has been such a special project to be a part of - from the moment Sarah, the author, first described the concept I could see that this would be a hugely powerful story to help children feel less alone and to encourage them to seek the support of an adult they trust if they need help with bullying. -- Dr Pooky Knightsmith, Mental Health Advisor, Author, Speaker & EducatorThis beautifully written and illustrated book addresses the issue of bullying in a sensitive way that captures the emotions of young children who are being bullied. It's also empowering as it offers the child solutions. The section for supporting adults provides many opportunities to enable children to explore the thoughts and feelings of those who experience or observe bullying. -- Helen Cowie, Professor, University of Surrey, author of Emily Is Being Bullied: What Can She Do?

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Book SynopsisWhat’s the happiest kid supposed to do when she wakes up not feeling happy? A reassuring picture book debut about recognizing sadness and talking about big feelings. Sally is usually the happiest kid. She wakes up every morning with a bright sun shining over her bed, and she knows it’s going to be a good day. But one day she wakes up feeling different and there’s a gloomy cloud hanging over her instead. She doesn’t know why it’s there, but she doesn’t want anyone to see it—not her parents, not her teacher, and not her friends—so she hides it away. But as the day goes on, the cloud grows too big and heavy for her to carry, and Sally must find the courage to let it out. In this sweet story, Sarah Bagley Steele, Elsa Pu Si Lo, and Clarice Cai offer a gentle reminder that everyone feels sad sometimes, and that’s okay.

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Book SynopsisWith the help of Steph’s younger sister Jasmine, they come up with a plan to promote Steph’s music under a new rap name: the Architect.Trade Review★ “Exceptional storytelling, well-crafted, true-to-life dialogue, and the richly drawn Brooklyn landscape will draw readers into this fast-paced blend of mystery, budding romance, and social commentary...Thoroughly engrossing and as infectious as Steph’s lyrics.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) ★ “Jackson repeatedly proves that she is a titan among her peers, and her latest novel is no exception... Jackson weaves the three points of view together seamlessly, creating richly drawn and authentically real teen characters.” — ALA Booklist (starred review) ★ “Deftly chronicles the timely story of bold young talent gone too soon... Jackson scores a bull’s-eye with her passionate homage to black city life in the late ’90s, yet it’s her earnest takes on creativity, love, and loss that are timeless.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review) ★ “This YA novel harmonizes music and prose to create a certified literary banger.” — Shelf Awareness (starred review) ★ “Readers will feel connected to these teens’ love of hip-hop, their loyalty to each other and their love for their community... offers moving portraits of young people... an engaging ode to ’90s hip-hop and to love in many forms.” — BookPage (starred review) “With thoughtful attention to detail, Jackson offers a believable cast of Black teens immersed in a particularly rich hip-hop moment. The combination of lyricism and narrative realism is an effective mode of representing a particular sort of adolescence against the backdrops of New York City and rap music.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books “Jackson presents a fast-moving, heart-pounding homage to nineties hip-hop, Brooklyn, and the power of music, love, and friendship. Readers are transported to a time when DJs and MCs rocked the parties and when word-of-mouth could make you a star.” — The Horn Book ”A thrilling, heart-rending, unforgettable novel.” — Buffalo News PRAISE FOR MONDAY’S NOT COMING: “A mesmerizing, punch-in-the-gut story about the power of friendship and the horrors hiding right in front of us.” — Laurie Halse Anderson, author of Speak and Chains ★ “This thought-provoking thriller examines issues such as abuse, gentrification, and the marginalization of people of color with nuance and sensitivity. The narrative deftly moves back and forth between past and present, building to a devastating conclusion. A spellbinding, profoundly moving choice for YA collections.” — School Library Journal (starred review) ★ “Jackson’s sophomore novel features another ripped-from-the-headlines premise that will keep readers guessing through the final pages. Jackson’s characters and their heart-wrenching story linger long after the final page, urging readers to advocate for those who are disenfranchised and forgotten by society and the system.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review) ★ “Jackson effortlessly weaves elements of suspense with issues of race, class, and gender, casting a harsh light on a world that often refuses to notice the disappearances of black and brown girls. The twist at the end is both gaspworthy and heartbreaking.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books (starred review) “Jackson doesn’t hold anything back when it comes to the pain of abuse and the ramifications of turning a blind eye. It’s a frank, devastating read filled with real and flawed characters, and it’s a story that needs to be read.” — Booklist “The draw of this novel, which was inspired by actual events, lies in its interwoven themes of the effects of gentrification, especially on black residents whose connections, culture, and community become afterthoughts in the face of capitalism. A tragic and heartbreaking tale of love, loss, grief, growth, and perseverance.” — Kirkus Reviews PRAISE FOR ALLEGEDLY: ★ “With remarkable skill, Jackson offers an unflinching portrayal of the raw social outcomes when youth are entrapped in a vicious cycle of nonparenting and are sent spiraling down the prison-for-profit pipeline. Dark, suspenseful.” — School Library Journal (starred review) ★ “Her novel effectively joins Ava DuVernay’s documentary 13th and Michelle Alexander’s The New Jim Crow (2010) to become another indictment of the penal system’s decimating power beyond its bars and, more subtly and refreshingly, a pro-reproductive-justice novel. Searing and true.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) ★ “The characters are complex, the situation unsettling, and the line between right and wrong hopelessly blurred. It’s also intensely relevant, addressing race, age, and mental illness within the criminal justice system. Well conceived and executed, this is an absorbing and exceptional first novel.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review) ★ “Suspenseful without being emotionally manipulative, compelling without resorting to shock value, this is a tightly spun debut that wrestles with many intense ideas and ends with a knife twist that will send readers racing back to the beginning again.” — Booklist (starred review) “Seen through Jackson’s dark portrait of the legal system and the failures of parents and social workers, Mary’s environments are as grim as the stories that play out in them; readers fascinated by procedural dramas will be thoroughly hooked.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

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Book SynopsisThe third title in Jean Ure's acclaimed series of humorous, delightful and poignant stories written in the form of diaries and letters which make them immediately accessible to children.This is the story of how Mandy learns to cope with her untidy life and finally emerges triumphant.Mandy Small has trouble writing so Cat, her teacher, suggests that she tells her life story into a tape recorder. So begins Mandy's funny and sometimes sad story of life with her loving but chaotic parents Dad, the Elvis look-alike, and Mum, whose idea of a special meal is burnt toast!Then there's school, where the horrible Tracey Bigg picks on Mandy and her timid friend, Oliver, not to mention Old Misery Guts, the landlady and Nan, who thinks that Mandy's parents aren't fit to look after her. With so many things to worry about, Mandy begins to think that she's in danger of turning into a real Fruit and Nutcase!Mandy's story, told in the form of diary into a tape recorder, is a funny and often moving accouTrade ReviewFruit and Nutcase“…this is an upbeat yet gritty story about the tenacity of love and the fact that life is never perfect.”Scotland on Sunday Becky Bananas“…the writing transcends any trace of heaviness”Guardian

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Book SynopsisA dark, engrossing, blood-drenched tale of the familiar threats to female power?and one girl?s journey to regain it. Five starred reviews greeted this powerful story fromElana K. Arnold, author of the Printz Honor winnerDamsel.You are alone in the woods, seen only by the unblinking yellow moon. Your hands are empty. You are nearly naked. And the wolf is angry.Since her grandmother became her caretaker when she was four years old, Bisou Martel has lived a quiet life in a little house in Seattle. She?s kept mostly to herself. She?s been good.But then comes the night of homecoming, when she finds herself running for her life over roots and between trees, a fury of claws and teeth behind her.A wolf attacks. Bisou fights back. A new moon rises. And with it, questions.About the blood in Bisou?s past, and on her hands as she stumbles home.About broken boys and vicious wolves.About girls lost in the woods?frightened, but not alone. Trade Review"In the wake of her Printz Honor–winning Damsel, Arnold blazes a new and equally powerful trail through toxic masculinity. Read, shed your pelt, and be transformed—for blades are being sharpened." — Booklist (starred review) “It’s unsettling how seamlessly Arnold incorporates dark fantasy elements of beastly wolves and cunning hunters into her all-too-realistic tale. A fantastic novel in the #MeToo era, empowering women to share their stories by reaching out, speaking up, and demanding a change.” — School Library Journal (starred review) “At once a sharp critique of male entitlement and a celebration of sisterhood and feminine power, this story will linger with readers long after the final page.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review) “Arnold uses an intriguing blend of magic realism, lyrical prose, and imagery that evokes intimate physical and emotional aspects of young womanhood. A timely and unabashedly feminist twist on a classic fairy tale.” — Kirkus Reviews "This will satisfy readers looking for a vengeful overthrow of the patriarchy that recasts the victims as the victors." — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books "An ultimately empowering, and thoroughly immersive, feminist fairy tale." — Horn Book (starred review) "Deeply and darkly enticing, Red Hood isn't a modern retelling so much as it is the story we should have had all along." — Shelf Awareness

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Book SynopsisReason to Breathe by Rebecca Donovan is a US bestselling phenomenon.An utterly addictive and heartbreaking novel that will leave readers breathless and desperate for more. All fans of Jodi Picoult and new adult author fiction such Colleen Hoover''s Slammed, Tammara Webber''s Easy and Abbi Glines'' Vincent Boys will love Rebecca Donovan''s incredible writing. A must-read.A passionate love. A brutal betrayal. Unwavering hope.In a town where most people worry about what to be seen in and who to be seen with, Emma Thomas would rather not be seen at all. She''s more concerned with feigning perfection, pulling down her sleeves to conceal the bruises. Emma doesn''t want anyone to know how far from perfect her life truly is. When Emma unexpectedly finds love, it challenges her to recognize her own worth - but at the risk of revealing the terrible secret she''s desperate to hide.Praise for Reason to Breathe:''Trade ReviewEmotionally intense and heart-achingly beautiful, Reason to Breathe will linger in your thoughts long after you turn the last page. * Tracey Garvis-Graves, New York Times bestselling author of On the Island *

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Book SynopsisBarely Breathing by Rebecca Donovan is a US bestseller and the incredible sequel to Reason to Breathe.An utterly addictive and heartbreaking YA novel that will leave readers breathless and desperate for more. All fans of Jodi Picoult and new adult fiction such Colleen Hoover''s Slammed, Tammara Webber''s Easy and Abbi Glines'' Vincent Boys will love Rebecca Donovan''s incredible writing. A must-read.Unanswered questions. Burning desire. Heartbreaking consequences.The scandalous secrets of Emma''s abuse are revealed, but she still has so much to learn out about her past. Why did her mother leave her all those years ago? What really happened the night Emma''s father died? Were her memories of being happy just a dream? The repercussions of one horrific night has affected the lives of everyone involved. But with the promise of true love and new relationships, will Emma let it ruin hers for good?Praise for BareTrade ReviewRaw, honest, unflinching, and unforgiving, Barely Breathing will take your emotions for a ride and deliver an ending you didn't see coming * Tracey Garvis-Graves, New York Times bestselling author of On the Island *

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Book SynopsisWill Parks needs to man up.A man stands. A man fights. A man bleeds.These are the first lessons you learn in a town where girls are objects, words are weak and fists do the talking.Will''s more at home in the classroom than the gym, and the most important woman in his life is his gran. So how can a boy who''s always backed away from a fight become the hero who saves the day?Because a disaster is coming. One that Will can prevent. But only if he learns the most important lesson of all: sometimes to step up, you have to man down.A searingly powerful exploration of toxic masculinity, perfect for fans of Juno Dawson or They Both Die at the End.''Stylish, thought-provoking thriller territory . . . Highly recommended'' - The Irish Times''Staggeringly good . . . had me hanging on every word'' Louisa Reid, author of Wrecked and Lies Like Love''Good books make you feel something. Great books change the way you feel about everything. Man Down is a great book. No one is writing about young men''s lives with as much warmth, empathy and humour as James is right now.'' Samuel Pollen, author of The Year I Didn''t Eat''Utterly compelling, completely original and will undoubtedly be one of the standout books of 2022. An absolute must read'' - Adam Simcox, author of The Dying Squad''An excellent look at what it means to be a man amid a culture of peer pressure and toxic masculinity while navigating desire and friendship. Loved it.'' - Anna Stephens, author of Godblind''Emotionally complex, dark and clever - a very unexpected, thoughtful and original book. I can honestly think of no other YA quite like it.'' - Gina Blaxill, author of Saving SilenceTrade ReviewStylish, thought-provoking thriller territory . . . Highly recommended -- Claire Hennessy * The Irish Times *Staggeringly good . . . had me hanging on every word -- Louisa Reid, author of Wrecked and Lies Like LoveMan Down is truly special. A love letter to youth, life, love and hope, it's utterly compelling, completely original and will undoubtedly be one of the standout books of 2022. An absolute must read. * Adam Simcox, author of The Dying Squad *Good books make you feel something. Great books change the way you feel about everything. Man Down is a great book. No one is writing about young men's lives with as much warmth, empathy and humour as James Goodhand is right now. -- Samuel Pollen, author of The Year I Didn't EatAn excellent look at what it means to 'be a man' amid a culture of peer pressure and toxic masculinity while navigating desire and friendship. Loved it. * Anna Stevens, author of Godblind *Emotionally complex, dark and clever - a very unexpected, thoughtful and original book. I can honestly think of no other YA quite like it. * Gina Blaxill, author of Saving Silence *A gritty, gripping tale of a young man searching for meaning in a life that's far from ordinary. * Malcolm Duffy, author of Sofa Surfer *

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Book SynopsisThe Boy Files is a bang-up-to-date look at growing up issues, puberty and all the stuff boys really need to know!Table of Contents 1: Welcome to the Boy Files 2: Even superheroes go through puberty 3: The puberty alphabet 4: All about hormones 5: Puberty begins... 6: Zits, bits and stinky pits 7: Girls aren't aliens 8: Growth spurts, gorilla hair and a voice like VADER! 9: Useful websites 10: Sleepng late and controlling the HATE! 11: The wandering willy 12: Staying safe 13: Bulling is a dirty word 14: It's my life too 15: Live long and prosper 16: Useful words 17: Get connected 18: Index

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Book SynopsisReal, compulsive and intense: Cat Clarke is the queen of emotional suspense. For fans of Paula Hawkins, Gillian Flynn, Megan Abbott and Jandy Nelson.They didn''t mean to kill her...now the guilt will tear them apartAlice King isn''t expecting the holiday of her dreams when she sets off on a trip to the wilderness with her mates. But when her best friend Cass decides to teach mean girl Tara a lesson, Alice finds herself in a nightmare she can''t escape.Now Alice is the guardian of a secret too horrific to tell; and a secret too terrible to keep. A secret that will change all of their lives for ever...Trade ReviewA blisteringly fast tale told with heart and integrity that quite simply won't let you go until you've reached the end * Books 4 Teens *Gripping, thought-provoking and disturbing * Booktrust *Heart-stoppingly tense and palpably taut ... 'Torn' is breathless * Did You Ever Stop to Think *One of the best books I have read * Guardian *It was gripping, thrilling ... There are plenty of twists to keep you guessing and wanting to read as fast as possible * Heaven, Hell and Purgatory *Cat Clarke is undoubtedly one of the most exciting and talented YA writers we have in Britain... The story is fast-paced, the writing snappy and in the right tone * Librarymice *One of the most striking and unforgettable books I have ever read * Page Turner *A real page-turner ... the home-grown horror of a real world thriller is what makes this story stand out * We Love This Book *Haunting, emotional and beautiful * Blabbing Books *Incredible - pure and simple * Writing from the Tub on Cat Clarke *Undoubtedly one of the most exciting and talented YA writers in Britain * Library Mice on Cat Clarke *I wholly, unabashedly and completely recommend this book * Inis Magazine on Cat Clarke *Clarke...succeeds brilliantly, thanks to the reality of the characters and the depth of the emotion * The Scotsman on Cat Clarke *Moving, thought provoking and utterly gripping from start to finish * Mizz on Cat Clarke *Clarke excels at genuine page-turners and I read this in one greedy sitting * The Bookseller on Cat Clarke *

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Book SynopsisDiscover the tools you need to build your social skills and learn how to avoid being a bully to others. The book also includes a page for caregivers and teachers that suggests guiding questions to help aid in reading comprehension. Downloadable Teacher Notes available.

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Book SynopsisOften kids-and some adults-feel children have no choice when it comes to who touches them and when. However, it''s important to empower children from a very young age that they are in charge of their own bodies. In You Can Say No, the characters in the book learn that they don''t have to do something they are uncomfortable with just because an adult says so.Ashonda Underwood, LSW, is a first-time author who holds a Master''s degree in Social Work. You Can Say No illustrates different scenarios that show children when it''s ok to say No to an adult, specifically when it comes to their bodies. This book equips children with a tool in the form of a catchy slogan...Even though you''re an adult, I''m allowed to say No. My body is mine, leave it alone!... that empower them to say No when their body feels

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Book SynopsisTeasing. Spreading rumours. Leaving someone out on purpose. These are types of bullying, and bullying is never okay. You have the power to stop bullying by using respect and kindness, and this is an important power to have.

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