Children’s / Teenage personal and social topics: Death and grief

Book SynopsisThe sequels - The Wicked King and The Queen of Nothing - are the winners of/won the Goodreads YA Best Fantasy in 2019 and 2020. Nominated for the CILIP CARNEGIE MEDAL 2019. intoxicating - Leigh Bardugo, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Six of CrowsOf course I want to be like them.Trade ReviewLush, dangerous, a dark jewel of a book. Black's world is intoxicating, imbued with a relentless sense of peril that kept me riveted through every chapter of Jude's journey. And Jude! She is a heroine to love--brave but pragmatic, utterly human. This delicious story will seduce you and leave you desperate for just one more page -- Leigh Bardugo, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Six of Crows and Crooked KingdomStands out amid a plethora of fairy-court fantasies . . . Complex, nuanced characters, frank sensuality and thorn-sharp, intricate storytelling all conspire to ensnare. * Guardian *Whatever a reader is looking for-heart-in-throat action, deadly romance, double-crossing, moral complexity-this is one heck of a ride * Booklist *I require book two immediately. Holly Black is the Faerie Queen. * Victoria Aveyard *An enjoyable read * SFX Magazine *I am awarding this book 5*/5 with no hesitation - it was lively, gripping, exciting, and had some amazing plot twists which kept me turning the pages * Sammy's Shelf *It's only a week into 2018 and I've already fallen in love with a new author, Holly Black. I know I'm extremely late to this party, but wow her books are good. If you like faeries but also messy and complicated humans, trust me you'll love her! * What Rhi Read *Holly Black creates an enticing world that's as sinister as it is appealing, and a heroine more than equipped to manoeuvre within. Impossible not to enjoy. Shadowhunters fan should read this at their earliest opportunity * SciFi Now *A veritable queen of dark fantasy, Holly Black spins a thrilling tale of intrigue and magic in her newest novel. Ten years after the faeries murdered her parents and stole her away, 17 year old Jude is fighting to be accepted by her captors. Unmissable for fans of Sarah J. Mass and the Grisha trilogy * Buzzfeed UK *This splendidly wicked and richly created story is one you won't want to miss * Buzzfeed *With brave world building, complex characters and an intriguing plot all piled into one novel, this is a huge success * The Page Is Printed *Fantasy adventure at its brilliant, intelligent, thought-provoking best * LoveReading *In this story she has once again proved why she is known by some as the 'Queen of Faerie because she successfully creates a dark, twisted world inspired by the old folktales where the fae are capricious and cruel, yet sets it alongside a modern world that feels all too familiar * Chrikaru Blog *A gripping tale packed with beautiful writing, a well crafted world, complex characters and fast paced action. The book definitely felt like a set up for something much bigger that I can't wait to get my hands on * Amy Jane Alice *Holly Black created a world of Faerie that is ruthless, cruel and dangerous and it's so much fun to see all of that unfold over the course of the story! * The Caffeinated Bookworm Life *The way Black spins the world is honestly mesmerizing. We've got faerie courts of every kind, each as mysterious and bloody wicked as you can possibly imagine. The creatures are varied, from pixies to undines to goblins. She uses phrases and descriptions in the best way possible to not only make you feel like you're actually there, but you can practically taste the sickly sweet faerie fruits and the dark magic in the air * Stones of Rome *Holly Black has a way of weaving the fantastical into reality that few other authors manage with any real success. Whether she's writing about vampires or faeries, Black creates worlds so real that you risk losing yourself in them * Wondra's World *I really cannot recommend The Cruel Prince highly enough. If you've read Holly's other books you'll get an extra kick out of it, but you don't need to, as this is a separate series. I'm already dying for book 2 and I can't believe I have to wait a year for it. I'm not entirely sure how I'm going to cope! * The Untitled Book Blog *I can see why Holly is known as the Queen of Faeries. With this book alone, I was able to see that she knows this world well and has the ability to craft a rich and compelling story filled with evocative details that made me feel as though I were navigating Faerie myself. As if I could taste the sickening sweetness of the faerie fruit and run my fingers over the embroidery of the vibrant fabrics making up gowns for the balls. When I wasn't reading, I was thinking about the book, the characters, the impending danger which left me uneasy, until I had devoured it all. Just the right amount of things are resolved, and the explosive ending leaves the perfect set up for a sequel that could be even better than this. If, like me, you enjoy reading about morally grey characters and how far they are willing to go to gain power, then you should give this book a shot. It was my first Holly Black novel and it will certainly not be the last. I can't wait to discover what other worlds she has created - maybe that will help with the agonising wait for book 2 * Violette Books *A dark and beguiling fantasy that sees how human strengths and weaknesses can be used for good and bad. This addictive tale and its vibrant cast of characters has hints of King Arthur's Court and a knight's quest with a magical twist * South Wales Evening Post *this book knocked my socks off. Honestly, it had the perfect mix of court intrigue, well thought-out plot twists, amazing character development and sizzling chemistry (*swoon*) * Chased by my Imagination *If you love old school fairytales and a dark, twisted plot, then you must read The Cruel Prince. I'm still amazed and cannot stop thinking about it * Astra Litte *Holly Black writes beautifully, that's a fact. I was hooked from the very first chapter until the very last sentence of the book, this is so addictive you can't stop reading before knowing everything. And at the end you come asking for more * Beauty and the Bookstore *This book is a real page turner! I was totally engrossed by the first chapter and it gets better and better whole the way through. I'm so sad that I've finished this book, I crave its sequel right now * MisLivsie *Packed with court intrigues, vendettas and tangled loves and lineages and betrayals * Geek Chocolate *This is a great start to a series and I'm now looking for other Holly Black books to read because I love her writing style. I love all things fey and have read numerous books in a similar setting and this is one of my favourite * Shutterpug *The Cruel Prince was a refreshing read first and foremost. Void of unnecessary YA tropes and cliche characters, it made me giddy and reminded me of the days I could read YA fantasy without throwing the book across my room at least once. (Maybe there is hope yet). The story started right of the bat with gruesome murder (not a spoiler) wasting no time with finery and capturing my attention with an iron grip. And from there it went uphill. The pace was steady and fast with a captivating story line. It kept me on the edge of my seat the entirety of the time and the second half of the book, oh my lord. It was impossible to move my eyes from my book, even for a second! * Bookishues *If you're looking for an amazing book about faeries, with great characters and amazing world building, look no further. I could probably go on for days but I definitely recommend you pick this up. Regardless if you've read any of Holly Black's previous works, it won't let you down * Midsummer Night's Read *This book was fantastic. We were given a magical world filled with wonder, fantasy and lots of bloodlust. This book has everything you could need in a Young Adult novel, a strong willed heroin, an angst filled bad boy and of course a whirlwind romance * The Star *an intriguing dark fantasy novel with a fascinating array of characters * The Owl on the Bookshelf *This is a very clever and intricate book, and I am seriously looking forward to more political intrigue, plotting, spying, murders, revenge and clever ways to avoid lying in the next installment * Book For Thought *Dark and twisted, this Faerie-tale kept me hooked from beginning to end with its glorious twists and turns * Kelly's Ramblings *A very compelling and dramatic start to what I'm sure will be a very successful series. Holly Black has a way of ingeniously mixing just the right amount of action, tension, viciousness and romance in with the fantastical. She has created a fearsome world and even more fearsome characters. Jude is a force to be reckoned with, humanly flawed but fierce and strong. I loved her. The only problem now is, we have to wait until next year for the sequel. Hurry up Holly, my mortal heart could barely take the cliffhanger ending * Askews Newsletter *The Cruel Prince was a surprising and fantastic read. Though I only bought this because it was at such a good price, it has such a complex and dark plot. I couldn't help but find myself comparing it to Game of Thrones for expecting the unexpected * Book Mood Reviews *The Cruel Prince was one of the first YA fantasy books published in 2018 and whilst the whole year is still ahead of us, it's likely to be one of the best too. The long wait for book two has already begun. * Culture Fly *Jude is a brilliant, furious creature - the product of murder, danger and brutality, strength built upon her fragility and weaknesses as a mere mortal, easily swayed and damaged by the world around her. * Hux Tales *I found this absolutely compelling, mesmerizing even, as Black reeled me into this incredible world she created. Her imagery is tremendously vivid, but this is definitely a book I'd love to see played out on screen, just to see how all of the characters and the kingdom around them look. Black masterfully weaved suspense, intrigue, emotions, violence, and even a little romance to fantastic effect. * Either Sadness Or Euphoria *I obviously loved this book. Definitely a 5/5 stars for me! It threw so much at you and everything stuck. I loved every aspect of this book and can't wait to get deeper into this faerie realm that Black is building for us. * Thrice Read *I absolutely loved it. I found the writing rich and full of details (not too much though) and this drew me into the world. * Fleur’s Makeup Box *The Cruel Prince is a dark, twisty tale of jealousy, cruelty, betrayals and political intrigue and I thoroughly enjoyed it. * For What It’s worth *If you like the idea of a dark faerie young adult book, I definitely recommend The Cruel Prince as a fulfilling read. The story is quite unique for its genre, and the characterisation is extremely good for young adult fiction * Geeks Media *Enjoyable story around a surprisingly relatable teenage drama. From school bullies, flings and finding your own place in a crazy and violent world, Holly Black has created an interesting new take on the well known fae story * A Novel Way To Move *The writing is terrific, as is the quasi-Jacobean plotting * New Statesman *An exceptional achievement! It's fast paced and complex, the characters are complicated and three dimensional, the sense of atmosphere and detail is captivating. In fact it feels almost like a faerie version of Game of Thrones, with level of ambiguity and viciousness that is truly refreshing for a story in this genre. One of the most enjoyable and immersive reading experiences of the last twelve months * Starburst Magazine *This was so hyped to me that I somehow created an image in my head of how this book would be and, honestly, you can't even comprehend how wrong I was. Nothing was like I expected and I don't even know how I can up with so many preconceived notions when in reality I knew nothing about this book. But holy sh*t, do I need The Wicked King right. Now * Imi Reviews Books *The storyline was without a doubt too, one of the best I've read in awhile. It was all very enchanting with a constantly surprising turn of events and plenty of danger and deception. I was always on edge wondering if something major was going to happen because it really all just came on so suddenly sometimes and I loved that. There was never a lapse in storyline either so it was a constant stream that made it very hard to put down since I never really had the feeling of being tired of it. Now, like everyone else who has read this book, I'm in for the torturous wait for the second book and I'm so eager to get my hands on it. Just like this book the sequel, The Wicked King, is sure to be one of the most anticipated releases of the year in 2019 * Bookish Kirra *I loved this story and highly recommend to anyone who likes YA books with strong female character, snarky comments and lots of action * Blind Date with Books *The Cruel Prince is a story both of faeries and political intrigue, of magic and mind control, swords and knives and poison. It is beautiful mix of the modern world and the magic of faerie stories * Library to Living Room *What a beautifully stunning book. I can't be more excited for the next book in the series. Wow, what a cliffhanger. So messy and so very very delightful * Tor's Imagination *Full of visceral descriptions and real, interesting characters, Holly Black's world of Faery is a brutal beast, and one that's hard to put down * Lipsyy *An author always to watch out for, Holly Black's new series doesn't disappoint... this tale of a kingdom and deadly power struggles as seen through human eyes in asn absolute must read * Irish Independent *A lush, immersive experience that will delight readers who have enjoyed The Game of Thrones where plot and counter-plot are the norm; where little is what it seems * Books For Keeps *a pacey, engaging read, but with enough substance to be really satisfying, and Black gives us delicious tidbits of larger parts of the fairy world that I really hope will be explored later on. I'm looking forward to the next installment * Isabelle Marie Flynn *I also loved how the story unfolded. Black set up her plot line brilliantly and through well placed though not super obvious hints you could vaguely figure out where things were going to go. It was well crafted and still allowed room for a few surprises.I highly recommend this fast paced and bloody read * Northern Plunder *The Cruel Prince kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. Jude was a really edgy, imperfect, relate-able character and I really liked her * Book Nerd Rambling *Skulduggery, machinations, ruthless political maneovring, - this is what you need from a book set in the Faerie Courts, and The Cruel Prince delivers in spades! Featuring love, betrayal, desire and divided loyalties, all the characters are rounded, complex creations that feel vivid and real. The plotting is twisty and slippery and springs surprises that the reader doesn't see coming. A wonderful subversion of the changeling trope and the author's best book so far * Inis Reading Guide *Very catchy and you want to keep on reading ... I can't wait for the next book * Teen Titles *This splendidly wicked and richly created story is one you won't want to miss * Buzzfeed *

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Book SynopsisAn epic, emotional, breathtaking story of love and loss set amid the Syrian revolution. Burning with the fires of hope and possibility, AS LONG AS THE LEMON TREES GROW will sweep you up and never let you go. This brand new paperback edition contains exclusive bonus short story Joy. Set in the world of Lemon Trees, it features never-before-seen moments between Salama and Kenan. _______________ SHORTLISTED FOR THE BRITISH BOOK AWARDS DISCOVER BOOK OF THE YEAR 'This is an important book. Everyone should read it' - Elizabeth Laird, award-winning author of Welcome to Nowhere 'Wrenching and lyrical' - Samira Ahmed, New York Times bestselling author of Internment 'Hauntingly beautiful ... a must read' - Huda Fahmy, author of Huda F Are You A year ago, before the revolution, Salama watched her brother marry her best friend, Layla, and wondered when her own love story might begin. Now she works at the hospital – helping those she can, closing the eyes of those she can’t. Layla and her unborn baby are all Salama has left. Unless you count Khawf. But he’s a hallucination; a symptom of the horrors she’s seen. Every day he urges Salama to leave. Every day she refuses. Until she crosses paths with Kenan, the boy with the vivid green eyes, who wants to stay and risk his life for everything Syria could be …Trade ReviewThis is an important book. Everyone should read it * Elizabeth Laird, award-winning author of Welcome to Nowhere *A searing story of war, loss, family and love, of seeking grace in madness and hope in tragedy ... An absolute must read. * Sabaa Tahir, #1 NYT bestselling author of An Ember in the Ashes *Notable for its evocation of place and time, its rawness and its twist. * The Times *As gorgeous as it is groundbreaking ... This book is devastatingly beautiful. * David Arnold, NYT bestselling author of Mosquitoland and The Electric Kingdom *Beautiful, powerful and ringing with emotion, it will stay with you long after you’ve finished reading. * Katherine Woodfine, author of the Sinclair's Mysteries and Taylor & Rose Secret Agents *

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Book SynopsisAnother hilarious and moving novel from David Walliams, number one bestseller and fastest growing children's author in the country.A story of prejudice and acceptance, funny lists and silly words, this new book has all the hallmarks of David's previous bestsellers.Our hero Ben is bored beyond belief after he is made to stay at his grandma's house. She's the boringest grandma ever: all she wants to do is to play Scrabble, and eat cabbage soup. But there are two things Ben doesn't know about his grandma.1) She was once an international jewel thief.2) All her life, she has been plotting to steal the Crown Jewels, and now she needs Ben's helpTrade Review"An enjoyable read with an unexpected bittersweet ending" – The Sun "Hugely entertaining… a comic, touching and at times sad story” – Daily Express “This is possibly David’s funniest book ever.” – Heat "Anyone who thinks that all grannies do is wear mauve…will laugh out loud at David Walliams's new book" – Telegraph Magazine

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Book SynopsisI fell in love the way you fall asleep: slowly, then all at once.Despite the tumour-shrinking medical miracle that has bought her a few years, Hazel has never been anything but terminal, her final chapter inscribed upon diagnosis. But when a gorgeous plot twist named Augustus Waters suddenly appears at Cancer Kid Support Group, Hazel''s story is about to be completely rewritten.Insightful, bold, irreverent, and raw, The Fault in Our Stars brilliantly explores the funny, thrilling, and tragic business of being alive and in love.Praise for The Fault in Our Stars: Sunday Times (Culture) ''A touching, often fiercely funny novel''The Sun on Sunday (Fabulous Magazine) ''So good I think it should be compulsory reading for everyone!''Daily Express ''John Green brilliantly captures the voices of a young generation while instilling it with the wisdom of a life that has lived too much yet will never live enough''The Metro - 2013 Best Fiction ''The love affair of two terminally ill teenagers could be mawkish. In fact, it''s funny, clever, irreverent and life-affirming.''Grazia ''So good!''Good Housekeeping ''As funny as it is heartbreaking... we defy you not to fall in love with its main characters, Hazel and Augustus.''The Tablet ''A humourous and poignant love story... It''s terrifically funny... as well as a moving exploration of loss and grief. And no, it''s so much not just for teenage cancer sufferers... it''s for everyone.''Bliss ''If you need inspiration when it comes to making the most of a moment, this one is for you''Mizz ''Insightful, bold, irreverent and raw, if this doesn''t make you cry, it''ll definitely make you think, laugh and maybe even fall in love yourself!''Trade ReviewElectric . . . Filled with staccato bursts of humor and tragedy -- Jodi PicoultA novel of life and death and the people caught in between, The Fault in Our Stars is John Green at his best. You laugh, you cry, and then you come back for more -- Markus Zusak, author of The Book ThiefDamn near genius . . . Simply devastating . . . Fearless in the face of powerful, uncomplicated, unironized emotion * TIME *Funny . . . Poignant . . . Luminous * Entertainment Weekly *

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Book SynopsisWinner of the British Book Award for Children's Fiction Book of the Year Winner of the Books Are My Bag Readers Award for Children’s Fiction Shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal The Times Children's Book of the Year ‘A magnificent story … It deserves every prize going’ Philip Pullman ‘An extraordinary story with historical and family truth at its heart, that tells us as much about the present as the past. Deeply felt, movingly written, a remarkable achievement’ Michael Morpurgo 1941. War is raging. And one angry boy has been sent to the city, where bombers rule the skies. There, Joseph will live with Mrs F, a gruff woman with no fondness for children. Her only loves are the rundown zoo she owns and its mighty silverback gorilla, Adonis. As the weeks pass, bonds deepen and secrets are revealed, but if the bombers set Adonis rampaging free, will either of them be able to end the life of the one thing they truly love? Inspired by a true story.Trade Review"A magnificent story … It deserves every prize going" -- Philip Pullman"It’s a wonderful story of hurt, kindness and what it means to be human in an inhumane world" -- Children's Book of the Year * The Times *"An extraordinary story with historical and family truth at its heart, that tells us as much about the present as the past. Deeply felt, movingly written, a remarkable achievement" -- Michael Morpurgo"Very moving. I almost never cry at books - but this one had me in tears by the end" -- Jacqueline Wilson"A raw, heartfelt tale in the tradition of Goodnight Mister Tom" * Sunday Times *

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Book SynopsisThe second book in the thrilling new fantasy series from New York Times No.1 bestselling author Holly Black.Trade ReviewThe Wicked King is an exhilarating, heart in your mouth blend of murder, magic, desire and betrayal - an unputdownable book that doesn't just live up to the brilliance of The Cruel Prince but exceeds it. Just wait 'til you get to the end... * Culturefly *You should read this book if you like: YA fantasy, The Cruel Prince, faerie tales, treacherous court politics, complicated relationships with bad (immortal) boys * Goodreads *

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Book SynopsisAlan Durant (Author) Alan Durant is the author of books for a wide age-range, from picture books such as Burger Boy, Angus Rides the Goods Train and Always and Forever to top-end teenage thrillers (Blood, Flesh and Bones). Having worked as a copywriter at Walker Books, he is now a full-time author. He's married, with three children and lives in Brighton. He does a lot of school visits throughout the UK and abroad and also runs writing workshops.Debi Gliori (Illustrator) Debi Gliori is the author and illustrator of many books for children, including the very popular Mr Bear series. She won the Children's Book Award picture book section, and was shortlisted for the Kate Greenaway Medal in 1997. Her backlist in Doubleday/Corgi includes Tell Me Something Happy Before I Go to Sleep and The Very Small. Pure Dead Magic, which introduced the Strega-Borgias, was her first novel. It was followed byTrade ReviewA delicate subject touchingly and sensitively handled. You'll need a hanky . . . * Primary Times (Hampshire) *Many small children will be faced with the death of someone they love and this charming picture story might help them to come to terms with it. * Northern Echo *Moving to the point where younger children may be upset, but explains death gently. 10/10. * Daily Mirror *It is an enjoyable tale and I think young children will like it and might gain some insight into grief and how to cope with it. * Bereavement Care *One of the best books i've read on death and loss. * Sprouts *

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Book SynopsisLush, dangerous, a dark jewel of a book . intoxicating - Leigh Bardugo, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Six of CrowsOf course I want to be like them.Trade ReviewLush, dangerous, a dark jewel of a book. Black's world is intoxicating, imbued with a relentless sense of peril that kept me riveted through every chapter of Jude's journey. And Jude! She is a heroine to love--brave but pragmatic, utterly human. This delicious story will seduce you and leave you desperate for just one more page -- Leigh Bardugo, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Six of Crows and Crooked KingdomStands out amid a plethora of fairy-court fantasies . . . Complex, nuanced characters, frank sensuality and thorn-sharp, intricate storytelling all conspire to ensnare. * Guardian *Whatever a reader is looking for-heart-in-throat action, deadly romance, double-crossing, moral complexity-this is one heck of a ride * Booklist *I require book two immediately. Holly Black is the Faerie Queen. * Victoria Aveyard *An enjoyable read * SFX Magazine *I am awarding this book 5*/5 with no hesitation - it was lively, gripping, exciting, and had some amazing plot twists which kept me turning the pages * Sammy's Shelf *It's only a week into 2018 and I've already fallen in love with a new author, Holly Black. I know I'm extremely late to this party, but wow her books are good. If you like faeries but also messy and complicated humans, trust me you'll love her! * What Rhi Read *Holly Black creates an enticing world that's as sinister as it is appealing, and a heroine more than equipped to manoeuvre within. Impossible not to enjoy. Shadowhunters fan should read this at their earliest opportunity * SciFi Now *A veritable queen of dark fantasy, Holly Black spins a thrilling tale of intrigue and magic in her newest novel. Ten years after the faeries murdered her parents and stole her away, 17 year old Jude is fighting to be accepted by her captors. Unmissable for fans of Sarah J. Mass and the Grisha trilogy * Buzzfeed UK *This splendidly wicked and richly created story is one you won't want to miss * Buzzfeed *With brave world building, complex characters and an intriguing plot all piled into one novel, this is a huge success * The Page Is Printed *Fantasy adventure at its brilliant, intelligent, thought-provoking best * LoveReading *In this story she has once again proved why she is known by some as the 'Queen of Faerie because she successfully creates a dark, twisted world inspired by the old folktales where the fae are capricious and cruel, yet sets it alongside a modern world that feels all too familiar * Chrikaru Blog *A gripping tale packed with beautiful writing, a well crafted world, complex characters and fast paced action. The book definitely felt like a set up for something much bigger that I can't wait to get my hands on * Amy Jane Alice *Holly Black created a world of Faerie that is ruthless, cruel and dangerous and it's so much fun to see all of that unfold over the course of the story! * The Caffeinated Bookworm Life *The way Black spins the world is honestly mesmerizing. We've got faerie courts of every kind, each as mysterious and bloody wicked as you can possibly imagine. The creatures are varied, from pixies to undines to goblins. She uses phrases and descriptions in the best way possible to not only make you feel like you're actually there, but you can practically taste the sickly sweet faerie fruits and the dark magic in the air * Stones of Rome *Holly Black has a way of weaving the fantastical into reality that few other authors manage with any real success. Whether she's writing about vampires or faeries, Black creates worlds so real that you risk losing yourself in them * Wondra's World *I really cannot recommend The Cruel Prince highly enough. If you've read Holly's other books you'll get an extra kick out of it, but you don't need to, as this is a separate series. I'm already dying for book 2 and I can't believe I have to wait a year for it. I'm not entirely sure how I'm going to cope! * The Untitled Book Blog *I can see why Holly is known as the Queen of Faeries. With this book alone, I was able to see that she knows this world well and has the ability to craft a rich and compelling story filled with evocative details that made me feel as though I were navigating Faerie myself. As if I could taste the sickening sweetness of the faerie fruit and run my fingers over the embroidery of the vibrant fabrics making up gowns for the balls. When I wasn't reading, I was thinking about the book, the characters, the impending danger which left me uneasy, until I had devoured it all. Just the right amount of things are resolved, and the explosive ending leaves the perfect set up for a sequel that could be even better than this. If, like me, you enjoy reading about morally grey characters and how far they are willing to go to gain power, then you should give this book a shot. It was my first Holly Black novel and it will certainly not be the last. I can't wait to discover what other worlds she has created - maybe that will help with the agonising wait for book 2 * Violette Books *A dark and beguiling fantasy that sees how human strengths and weaknesses can be used for good and bad. This addictive tale and its vibrant cast of characters has hints of King Arthur's Court and a knight's quest with a magical twist * South Wales Evening Post *this book knocked my socks off. Honestly, it had the perfect mix of court intrigue, well thought-out plot twists, amazing character development and sizzling chemistry (*swoon*) * Chased by my Imagination *If you love old school fairytales and a dark, twisted plot, then you must read The Cruel Prince. I'm still amazed and cannot stop thinking about it * Astra Litte *Holly Black writes beautifully, that's a fact. I was hooked from the very first chapter until the very last sentence of the book, this is so addictive you can't stop reading before knowing everything. And at the end you come asking for more * Beauty and the Bookstore *This book is a real page turner! I was totally engrossed by the first chapter and it gets better and better whole the way through. I'm so sad that I've finished this book, I crave its sequel right now * MisLivsie *Packed with court intrigues, vendettas and tangled loves and lineages and betrayals * Geek Chocolate *This is a great start to a series and I'm now looking for other Holly Black books to read because I love her writing style. I love all things fey and have read numerous books in a similar setting and this is one of my favourite * Shutterpug *The Cruel Prince was a refreshing read first and foremost. Void of unnecessary YA tropes and cliche characters, it made me giddy and reminded me of the days I could read YA fantasy without throwing the book across my room at least once. (Maybe there is hope yet). The story started right of the bat with gruesome murder (not a spoiler) wasting no time with finery and capturing my attention with an iron grip. And from there it went uphill. The pace was steady and fast with a captivating story line. It kept me on the edge of my seat the entirety of the time and the second half of the book, oh my lord. It was impossible to move my eyes from my book, even for a second! * Bookishues *If you're looking for an amazing book about faeries, with great characters and amazing world building, look no further. I could probably go on for days but I definitely recommend you pick this up. Regardless if you've read any of Holly Black's previous works, it won't let you down * Midsummer Night's Read *This book was fantastic. We were given a magical world filled with wonder, fantasy and lots of bloodlust. This book has everything you could need in a Young Adult novel, a strong willed heroin, an angst filled bad boy and of course a whirlwind romance * The Star *an intriguing dark fantasy novel with a fascinating array of characters * The Owl on the Bookshelf *This is a very clever and intricate book, and I am seriously looking forward to more political intrigue, plotting, spying, murders, revenge and clever ways to avoid lying in the next installment * Book For Thought *Dark and twisted, this Faerie-tale kept me hooked from beginning to end with its glorious twists and turns * Kelly's Ramblings *A very compelling and dramatic start to what I'm sure will be a very successful series. Holly Black has a way of ingeniously mixing just the right amount of action, tension, viciousness and romance in with the fantastical. She has created a fearsome world and even more fearsome characters. Jude is a force to be reckoned with, humanly flawed but fierce and strong. I loved her. The only problem now is, we have to wait until next year for the sequel. Hurry up Holly, my mortal heart could barely take the cliffhanger ending * Askews Newsletter *The Cruel Prince was a surprising and fantastic read. Though I only bought this because it was at such a good price, it has such a complex and dark plot. I couldn't help but find myself comparing it to Game of Thrones for expecting the unexpected * Book Mood Reviews *The Cruel Prince was one of the first YA fantasy books published in 2018 and whilst the whole year is still ahead of us, it's likely to be one of the best too. The long wait for book two has already begun. * Culture Fly *Jude is a brilliant, furious creature - the product of murder, danger and brutality, strength built upon her fragility and weaknesses as a mere mortal, easily swayed and damaged by the world around her. * Hux Tales *I found this absolutely compelling, mesmerizing even, as Black reeled me into this incredible world she created. Her imagery is tremendously vivid, but this is definitely a book I'd love to see played out on screen, just to see how all of the characters and the kingdom around them look. Black masterfully weaved suspense, intrigue, emotions, violence, and even a little romance to fantastic effect. * Either Sadness Or Euphoria *I obviously loved this book. Definitely a 5/5 stars for me! It threw so much at you and everything stuck. I loved every aspect of this book and can't wait to get deeper into this faerie realm that Black is building for us. * Thrice Read *I absolutely loved it. I found the writing rich and full of details (not too much though) and this drew me into the world. * Fleur’s Makeup Box *The Cruel Prince is a dark, twisty tale of jealousy, cruelty, betrayals and political intrigue and I thoroughly enjoyed it. * For What It’s worth *If you like the idea of a dark faerie young adult book, I definitely recommend The Cruel Prince as a fulfilling read. The story is quite unique for its genre, and the characterisation is extremely good for young adult fiction * Geeks Media *Enjoyable story around a surprisingly relatable teenage drama. From school bullies, flings and finding your own place in a crazy and violent world, Holly Black has created an interesting new take on the well known fae story * A Novel Way To Move *The writing is terrific, as is the quasi-Jacobean plotting * New Statesman *An exceptional achievement! It's fast paced and complex, the characters are complicated and three dimensional, the sense of atmosphere and detail is captivating. In fact it feels almost like a faerie version of Game of Thrones, with level of ambiguity and viciousness that is truly refreshing for a story in this genre. One of the most enjoyable and immersive reading experiences of the last twelve months * Starburst Magazine *This was so hyped to me that I somehow created an image in my head of how this book would be and, honestly, you can't even comprehend how wrong I was. Nothing was like I expected and I don't even know how I can up with so many preconceived notions when in reality I knew nothing about this book. But holy sh*t, do I need The Wicked King right. Now * Imi Reviews Books *The storyline was without a doubt too, one of the best I've read in awhile. It was all very enchanting with a constantly surprising turn of events and plenty of danger and deception. I was always on edge wondering if something major was going to happen because it really all just came on so suddenly sometimes and I loved that. There was never a lapse in storyline either so it was a constant stream that made it very hard to put down since I never really had the feeling of being tired of it. Now, like everyone else who has read this book, I'm in for the torturous wait for the second book and I'm so eager to get my hands on it. Just like this book the sequel, The Wicked King, is sure to be one of the most anticipated releases of the year in 2019 * Bookish Kirra *I loved this story and highly recommend to anyone who likes YA books with strong female character, snarky comments and lots of action * Blind Date with Books *The Cruel Prince is a story both of faeries and political intrigue, of magic and mind control, swords and knives and poison. It is beautiful mix of the modern world and the magic of faerie stories * Library to Living Room *What a beautifully stunning book. I can't be more excited for the next book in the series. Wow, what a cliffhanger. So messy and so very very delightful * Tor's Imagination *Full of visceral descriptions and real, interesting characters, Holly Black's world of Faery is a brutal beast, and one that's hard to put down * Lipsyy *An author always to watch out for, Holly Black's new series doesn't disappoint... this tale of a kingdom and deadly power struggles as seen through human eyes in asn absolute must read * Irish Independent *A lush, immersive experience that will delight readers who have enjoyed The Game of Thrones where plot and counter-plot are the norm; where little is what it seems * Books For Keeps *a pacey, engaging read, but with enough substance to be really satisfying, and Black gives us delicious tidbits of larger parts of the fairy world that I really hope will be explored later on. I'm looking forward to the next installment * Isabelle Marie Flynn *I also loved how the story unfolded. Black set up her plot line brilliantly and through well placed though not super obvious hints you could vaguely figure out where things were going to go. It was well crafted and still allowed room for a few surprises.I highly recommend this fast paced and bloody read * Northern Plunder *The Cruel Prince kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. Jude was a really edgy, imperfect, relate-able character and I really liked her * Book Nerd Rambling *This book contains a good amount of that darkness so no Disney fairies in this book * sfcrowsnest *A bubbling pot of palace intrigue, deception, betrayal, and darkly alluring romance. -- Saoirse Hanley * Irish Independent *Holly Black is also a master of the fantasy genre and her book The Cruel Prince is the first of multiple books in the series. It's amassed 1.1 billion views for a good reason. Black's world building alone is flawless. -- Alice Giddings * Metro *The romance in the book was also of utmost perfection and the tension which was always something more between Jude and Cardan was addictive. * This is Local London *

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Book SynopsisA gripping and emotionally searing novel 'Looking for JJ' exploresthe circumstances and motives behind the murder of a child - byher friend. Three children walked away from the edge of town one day - but onlytwo of them came back . . .

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Book SynopsisWinner of the Mother Goose Award and endorsed by Child Bereavement UK as a book to help children through bereavement. Badger is so old that he knows he will soon die. He tries to prepare his friends for this event, but when he does die, they are still grief-stricken. Gradually they come to terms with their grief by remembering all the practical things Badger taught them, and so Badger lives on in his friends' memories of him. Endorsed by Child Bereavement UK and with reading notes and online resources in the back of the book.Trade Review"I bow down to this one. It left me with a lump in the throat, and I would have no qualms at all about recommending it to any child. Tender, poignant, touching. Good book." -- Martin Waddell * Irish News *"Varley's text is sensitive, comforting, gentle. This is one sensible and honest approach to death for the young." -- Elaine Moss * T. L. S. *"Beautifully detailed ink and watercolour illustrations carry the reader right into the heart of this story" * Carousel *"[One of] the best children’s books for help during hard times… Badger’s Parting Gifts has helped millions of children understand death" * The Sun *"Sensitively written" * Woman's Own *

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Book SynopsisNominated for the Carnegie Medal for Writing Shortlisted for the Branford Boase Award and Diverse Book Award After a shocking event leaves Tyrese struggling with grief, he’s taken to visit family in Jamaica. From the first night, strange things start happening: impossible visions, blackouts, swarms of insects, and the discovery of a grave hidden deep in the forest… Tyrese can’t explain what’s going on and he’s scared that he’s losing his grip on reality. Then Tyrese is warned he’s being hunted by the mysterious Shadow Man. Under threat, Tyrese and his friends set out on a terrifying journey across the island to try and uncover the Shadow Man’s sinister history. Who can Tyrese trust when his own mind is falling apart and there’s nowhere left to hide?Trade Review"A creepy, atmospheric psychological horror for 12+ pitting grief’s destructive potential against the restorative power of love" -- Imogen Russell Williams * Guardian *"It’s evocative, I can almost smell rural Jamaica, and it has the stand-out terrifying moments that sent chills through my bones" -- Alex Wheatle"A dark horror which terrified me to my very core" -- Yvette Fielding"Properly chilling and deeply tender, Rose draws on family and folklore to craft a world you will not want to leave" -- Deirdre Sullivan"The heat of Jamaica infused with the chill of its darkest folklore" -- Phil Hickes, author of The Haunting of Aveline Jones

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Book SynopsisDustin Thao is a Vietnamese-American writer based in Southern California. He graduated from Amherst College with a B.A. in Political Science, and is starting a PhD program at Northwestern University. He writes contemporary young adult fiction. You've Reached Sam is his YA debut.Trade ReviewIf you like your contemporaries with a tiny piece of magic, this emotional YA is perfect for you. * BuzzFeed *Have your tissues at the ready when you dive into Dustin Thao's emotional novel You've Reached Sam. * PopSugar *Thao skillfully marries a quiet, elegiac novel about grief with a provocative sf conceit. A poignant and moving read * Booklist *A touch of magic, first love and loss, this is the story of romance and heartache. * SheReads *You’ve Reached Sam is a hauntingly remarkable debut. Dustin Thao gently weaves grief, regret, second chances, and the honestly beautiful moments we carry from a first love. Every tear you will shed reading this book will be worth it. -- Julian Winters, award-winning author of Running With Lions

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Book SynopsisSet in the 1820s in Edinburgh, a city of cruel contrasts between the lives of the rich and poor, and home to the infamous Burke and Hare, who sold their murder victims to brilliant anatomist Dr Robert Knox. This is the evocative, often harrowing story of a boy who must survive the pain of his mother's death, at the hands of Doctor Knox. A compelling novel by the author of Mondays Are Red.Trade ReviewA dark and moving thriller set in 19th century Edinburgh ... Morgan's vivid portrayal of Edinburgh's Old Town, steeped in poverty, corruption and disease has a Dickensian lucidity, which lifts this novel out of the ordinary. The struggles of a young boy caring for his sister, coupled with the ethical and moral dilemmas facing the early surgical pioneers, make this a powerful and unforgettable story. * The Bookseller *Morgan -- in only her second novel -- could already be fairly compared to the late, greatly missed Leon Garfield * The Independent *Fleshmarket more than lives up to its evocative name and stylish jacket ... Morgan raises surprisingly contemporary issues about medical ethics through her rip-roaring plot with it's mix of real and imagined characters. It's a tour de force, the kind of novel that simply will not let you go * The Sunday Herald *This most unpredictable of novels ... a gripping and intelligent read ... Morgan plays with readers' expectations and judgement right to the end * The Sunday Telegraph *A dramatic and thought-provoking book. Nicola Morgan is a fine writer -- David AlmondFleshmarket is a tour de force, from it's attention-grabbing prologue onwards -- Lindsey Fraser * The Guardian *She succeeds so brilliantly ... the freshness of Morgan's style shines through. She writes with the adjectival flourish of someone who really does seem to delight in words, who seems able to effortlessly fine-tune them for effect * The Scotsman *Behind the rip-roaring plot... there was a painful truth that gave the book a modern and moving kick * Young Post *This is an important book that lives up to the expectations of its evocative title and dramatic cover. Stories don't come any more powerful than this * Sunday Morning Post *This is a tough thriller, a delicate love story and a powerfully evocative historical novel. At its heart is a young man's obsession with the mother he lost under horrendous, bizarre circumstances. Set in Edinburgh at a time in which the city was at the vanguard of medical advance, Morgan reveals the deep moral dilemmas that accompanied meaningful research at the time. Her descriptions of Edinburgh's Old Town, decaying, corrupt and dangerous, are extraordinarily vivid. Lives were cheap, both within and out of the medical faculty.Morgan is a confident, courageous and honest writer. Fleshmarket is a tour de force, from its attention-grabbing prologue onwards. * Lindsey Fraser *This book grabs you and never lets you go. * The Glasgow Herald *Outstanding ... a book that deserves attention * The Bookseller *A gripping and intelligent read. * The Sunday Telegraph *A dramatic and thought-provoking book. Nicola Morgan is a fine writer. * David Almond *Novel beginnings are seldom more dramatic or more grim than the first 10 pages of Nicola Morgan's Fleshmarket. This is sweat-on-the-forehead stuff. In the startling introduction to her story, Morgan, an uncompromising writer who doesn't believe in holding back, takes you straight to the painful centre of what is to follow and leaves you gasping.Fleshmarket is well and truly a book that thrills, but behind the rip-roaring plot there is a painful truth that none of us should ever forget. This is an important book that lives up to the expectations of its evocative title and dramatic cover. Stories don't come any more powerful than this. * Sunday Young Post *

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Book Synopsis"Grief is a tricky subject to explain to kids, but this book is a wonderful go-to expert toolkit!" Dr Ranj SinghThe death of a parent, sibling or friend is one of the most traumatic experiences for a child or young person and it can be hard to know how to talk to them about it. In this honest, comforting and strength-building guide Julie Stokes, a clinical psychologist and founder of childhood bereavement charity Winston's Wish, provides readers with the tools they need to navigate this tough and turbulent time.Readers will discover the stories of other people who have been through grief themselves. They will learn how to flex their 'grief muscles' in order to develop confidence, trust, grit, a resilient mindset and flexible feelings ­- the ability to notice, accept and talk about emotions when they choose to. And packed with practical exercises, such as creating memory boxes and managing different kinds of memories using 'memory stones', this guide will give readers helpful ways to manage their grief so they can begin to move forward with life. Because there is no right or wrong way to grieve, you just need to find your own way."The book I wish someone had read with me when I was young" Kristin Scott ThomasTrade Review"The book I wish someone had read with me when I was young." - Kristin Scott Thomas"Grief is a tricky subject to explain to kids, but this book is a wonderful go-to expert toolkit!" -- Dr Ranj Singh * Instagram *"Julie has had a wealth of experience working with children who have been through the most challenging of times. She can guide children through the most tender stages of grief and help them build resilience and move forward with their lives." -- Emily Eavis"I wish this book had been around when I was younger, but reading it now has still been so helpful! It really breaks grief down and normalises all of the feelings, making it much more manageable. I can see the visuals and the activities being very useful for teachers in the classroom. Accessible and inclusive for all ages." -- Lydia, primary school teacher, whose mother died when she was 11

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Book SynopsisThis book offers a structure and an outlet for the many difficult feelings which inevitably follow when someone dies. It aims to help children make sense of their experience by reflecting on the different aspects of their grief, whilst finding a balance between remembering and having fun. This book is a useful companion in the present, and will become an invaluable keepsake in the years to come.

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Book Synopsis'Totally enchanting, warm and funny' Ciara Smyth, author of Not My Problem ‘Neurodiversity has a voice, and it’s witty and uplifting and enlightening all at once’ Jasper Fforde, author of The Eyre Affair 'A lovely book' Graeme Simsion, author of The Rosie Project Longlisted for the Branford Boase Award Phoebe is autistic. She prefers to stay in her comfort zone: walking her dog, writing fantasy fiction, surviving school with as few incidents as possible. When her best (and only) friend rebels and gets a secret boyfriend, Phoebe reluctantly agrees to cover for her. Before long, Phoebe’s dealing with all sorts of things she’d rather not, like deception, fashionable jackets, and the bewildering politics of the school chess club. Breaking the rules has never been Phoebe’s thing, but as events take a seriously unexpected turn, she realises there’s more to her than she ever imagined . . .Trade Review"Phoebe’s distinctive voice – filled with both yearning and intelligent analysis – is the great strength of this novel and is one of the finest examples I’ve encountered in YA fiction of depicting neurodiversity as genuine difference, rather than as disability or superpower… This is an utterly gorgeous book" -- Claire Hennessy * Irish Times *"A uniquely funny, poignant and delightful coming-of-age story" -- Imogen Russell Williams * Guardian *"A beautifully crafted character study and a compelling and very funny friendship story" * Irish Independent *"Neurodiversity has a voice, and it's witty and uplifting and enlightening all at once" -- Jasper Fforde"A lovely book" -- Graeme Simsion"Totally enchanting, it’s warm and funny with such a kind heart, just like Phoebe who is a wonderfully charming character to spend time with" -- Ciara Smyth"A humdinger of a story packed with infectious humour and heart, Finding Phoebe is reading for pleasure at its absolute best" -- Jessica Scott-Whyte"A lovely story with a compelling and unique protagonist. Extence tackles a subject that has almost become taboo these days and deserves to see the light in YA fiction" -- Susin Nielsen

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Book SynopsisFrom the No.1 New York Times bestselling author of The Darkest Minds comes a high-octane story of power, destiny and redemption. A lifetime ago, Lore Perseous left behind the brutal, opulent world of the Agon families - ancient Greek bloodlines that participate in a merciless game every seven years. A game that is about to begin again ...For centuries, Zeus has punished the gods with a game called the Agon, which turns them mortal for one week, and at the mercy of being hunted by those with godly ambitions. Only a handful of the original Greek gods remain, the rest replaced by the mortals who killed them and ascended. After her family's sadistic murder by a rival bloodline, Lore escapes and vows to repay her parents' sacrifice by doing one thing - surviving. For seven years, she has pushed back dark thoughts of revenge against the man responsible for their murder, a man by the name of Wrath who has attained unimaginable power. Except for one week, every seven years. A week that is fast approaching ...When Lore comes home on the first night of the Agon to find Athena gravely wounded on her doorstep, the goddess offers her an alliance; they have a mutual enemy, after all. But as the world trembles under the force of Wrath - a god with the power to destroy all of humanity - will Lore's decision to bind her fate with Athena's come back to haunt her?Trade ReviewLore kept me awake far too many nights. A brilliant and breathless twist on classic mythology! -- Marissa Meyer, author of The Lunar ChroniclesA story of power and old wounds and love, all anchored by a protagonist that I cheered from the instant she appeared, fists ready and heart brave, on the page. A tale worth passing down. -- Marie Lu, author of Warcross

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Book SynopsisIt's peculiar how no-words can be better than words. How silence can say more than noise, or a person's absence can occupy even more space than their presence did. Suzy is twelve when her best friend, Franny, drowns one summer at the beach. It takes two days for the news to reach Suzy, and it's not something that she can accept: Franny has always been a strong swimmer, from the day they met in swim class when they were just five. How can someone all of a sudden, just no longer be there?Suzy realizes that they must have got it wrong: Franny didn't just drown - she was stung by a poisonous jellyfish. This makes a lot more sense to Suzy's logical mind than a random drowning - cause: a jellyfish sting; effect: death. Suzy's journey to acceptance is quiet - she resolves to either say something important, or say nothing at all. But it's also bursting with bittersweet humour, heart-breaking honesty, big ideas and small details. Trade ReviewA painful story smartly told, Benjamin's first solo novel has appeal well beyond a middle-school audience * Kirkus Reviews Starred Review *A moving portrayal of loss and healing * Publishers Weekly Starred Review *Benjamin explores the heartbreaking subject of grief in the young with dreamy, meditative and elegiac prose * The New York Times *This is a heartbreakingly touching debut about friendship, loss, fear and love that is funny, clever and beautifully written * Daily Mail *[an] intense and nuanced tale of friendship, revenge and youthful resourcefulness * Guardian *One of the most beautifully written debuts I've read in a really long time -- Sophie * So Many Books, So Little Time *

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Book SynopsisThe Hare-Shaped Hole is a poignant and touching picture book exploring death and grief, as Bertle the turtle learns to cope with the loss of his best friend Hertle the hare.Trade Review"A beautiful, gentle, rhyming exploration of grief and mourning" * Joseph Coelho, Waterstones Children's Laureate *"Explaining grief to children is one of the hardest things of all but Hare-Shaped Hole does it beautifully. Bertle Turtle experiences every emotion as he tries to come to terms with the loss of his best friend, Hertle Hare, but eventually realises that she'll always live on in his heart and his mind. It's a book full of love, empathy and wisdom. Hare-Shaped Hole is a fantastic collaboration between author John Dougherty and illustrator Thomas Docherty and needs to find a place in primary schools across the country." * Jon Biddle *“When Hertle the hare goes away, Bertle can only see a Hertle-shaped hole and he misses his friend. A sweet and poignant story about loss.” * The Bookseller *"This is a deceptively deep story about love and loss, enlivened by charming art." * Storytime Magazine *"The Hare-Shaped Hole tackles ideas around grief and bereavement with sensitivity and warmth, and could help you and your children start tricky conversations." * BookTrust *"This book is a delight and perfect for working with children on bereavement, grief and loss […] deserves to be in every classroom in the UK" * ELSA Support *"Truly a wonderful read" * Grief Encounter *"A beautiful book" * Winston's Wish *“Beautiful guidance on how to keep the memories of those we love and miss alive within us.” * The Grief Gang Podcast *“The perfect starter book for introducing children to conversations about death and dying.” * Cumberland News *

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Book SynopsisA moving, lyrical picture book about a young girl's love for her granddad and how she copes when he’s gone, written by multi-award winning poet and Waterstones Children's Laureate Joseph Coelho. This beautifully illustrated, powerful and ultimately uplifting text is the ideal way to introduce children to the concept of death and dying, particularly children who have lost a grandparent. With Allison Colpoys’ gorgeous artwork spilling from each page, accompany a girl and her grandad over spring, summer and autumn. See how he teaches her to imagine, to create, and to enjoy the small things in life, and how, when winter comes, he lives on in her heart. The perfect way into talking about a difficult subject with children, showing that sadness is as necessary to happiness as winter is to spring. If All the World Were… is a soothing, reassuring approach to loss and how to live without someone you loved, and a beautiful story, beautifully told.Trade Review'This beautiful, moving picture book tells the story of the treasured memories that a child has of her grandfather... The poetic language that Coelho uses is perfectly complemented by wonderful illustrations in the text by Alison Colpoys' * Reading Zone *'illustrated with exuberant, floral richness … (the) focus on memories as something visible, almost tangible, ready to be preserved and collated, may offer some consolation to the bereft child who feels powerless in the aftermath of loss.' * Times Literary Supplement *Ten of the Best: books starring children from BAME backgrounds: 'Coelho masterfully manages to strike the delicate balance between mourning the passing of a loved one and celebrating the gift of the life they lived and its legacy with moving sensitivity and care. Colpoy’s illustrations enrich and deepen our connection with the weight of sadness and height of celebration. An important title to support readers coming to terms with the loss of an elderly relative.' * Books for Keeps *'This poignant and thought-provoking collaboration between acclaimed poet Joseph Coelho and award-winning artist Allison Colpoys is more than just a meditation on loss. It is a profound and deeply moving exploration of how we miss the people who are gone, and of how memories resonate within our lives.' * INIS *

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Book SynopsisCombining the warmth and heart of Ross Welford’s The 1,000 Year Old Boy with the epic adventure and inseparable friendship of Frank Cottrell Boyce’s Cosmic comes an otherworldly new middle grade adventure from the award-winning Benjamin Dean. Twelve-year-old Zed has always been fascinated by the Demons that fall from the sky. His whole life his dad has worked as a Hunter, tasked with eliminating Demons once and for all, and Zed hopes to one day follow in his footsteps.   But then one night Spark appears and disrupts everything Zed thought he knew. Because this Demon is nothing like the myths – he’s a frightened boy, no older than Zed, who wants to go back home.   Can Zed stand up for what’s right, even if it means going against his own family?Praise for Benjamin Dean: ‘Warm-hearted and cheering, with a dash of sparkle’ – Guardian

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Book SynopsisJamie and Andrew are strangers, but they''re two of the last people left alive. They don''t know what they''ll find on their dangerous journey ... but they may just find each other. A queer romance about courage, hope and humanity for fans of They Both Die at the End, The Hunger Games and Simon vs the Homo Sapiens Agenda.When the Superflu wipes out most of the population, Jamie finds himself completely alone in a cabin in the woods - until an injured stranger crosses his path.Life is dangerous now and, armed with a gun, Jamie goes to pull the trigger. But there''s something about Andrew ... something that stops Jamie in his tracks. Jamie takes him in, and as Andrew heals and they eventually step out into the strange new world, their relationship starts to feel like more than just friendship ...But trouble isn''t far behind. As the boys make a perilous journey south, they''ll come face to face with a world torn apart and society in Trade ReviewTense, exciting, sometimes heartbreaking and always romantic, All That's Left in the World explores what it means to hold onto hope and humanity when the worst case scenario becomes reality. With characters you'll adore, and a fast-paced, mysterious plot that keeps you turning the pages as fast as you can devour them, this book is not to be missed. * Sophie Gonzales, author of Only Mostly Devastated *

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Book Synopsis**The second season of the Golden Globe nominated Thirteen Reasons Why is now on Netflix.** Read the sensational book that has taken the YA world by storm. You can't stop the future. You can't rewind the past. The only way to learn the secret . . . is to press play. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Clay Jensen comes home from school to find outside his front door a mysterious box with his name on it. Inside he discovers a series of cassette tapes recorded by Hannah Baker - his classmate and crush. Only, she committed suicide two weeks earlier. On the first tape, Hannah explains that there are 13 reasons why she did what she did - and Clay is one of them. If he listens, Clay will find out how he got onto the list - what he hears will change his life forever. Perfect for fans of The Fault In Our Stars and All the Bright PlaTrade ReviewA dizzying ride of suspense and revelation -- Kathryn Hughes * Guardian *A stealthy hit with staying power . . . thriller-like pacing * New York Times *Thirteen Reasons Why is a mystery, eulogy, and ceremony. I know, in the years to come, I will often return to this book -- Alexie Sherman, author of the award-winning DIARY OF A PART-TIME INDIANReaders won't be able to pull themselves away . . . * Publishers Weekly *

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Book SynopsisWith its spare, poignant text and irresistibly sweet illustrations, The Rabbit Listened is a tender meditation on loss. When something terrible happens, Taylor doesn't know where to turn. All the animals are sure they have the answer. The chicken wants to talk it out, but Taylor doesn't feel like chatting. The bear thinks Taylor should get angry, but that's not quite right either. One by one, the animals try to tell Taylor how to process this loss, and one by one they fail. Then the rabbit arrives. All the rabbit does is listen, which is just what Taylor needs. Whether read in the wake of tragedy or as a primer for comforting others, this is a deeply moving and unforgettable story sure to soothe heartache of all sizes.Trade Review`A beautifully mindful and poignant story about how to deal with life's heartaches big and small. Complete with eye-catching and heart-melting illustrations throughout.' Baby London;'Sensitive and insightful, this poignant story provides an ideal starting point for discussion about how it feels when things go wrong.' BookTrust;'". To be recommended for classrooms and libraries' Books for Keeps;'wonderfully wise story that's a must have for anyone who lives or works with young children' Red Reading Hub;''Full of beautiful illustrations and a simple and sparse text, this is a wonderful and deeply moving story to be read an explored, as the simple lesson of just listening is taught.' Children's Books Ireland;'Brims with emotional honesty and profound empathy.' Publishers Weekly, starred review. 'Doerrfeld gives children a model for how to process difficult events and provide meaningful support to friends who need it. This appealing work is an excellent addition to any emotional-intelligence shelf." Kirkus Reviews, starred review. 'I read a lot of books. A lot. And this one nearly took me down. It's a breathtaking look at grief in a few simple gestures.' Carter Higgins, Design of the Picture Book

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Winner of the 2012 Branford Boase Award, this is Annabel Pitcher's stunning debut about ten-year-old Jamie, and the way his life and his family are shaped by the sister in an urn on the mantelpiece. Five years ago, Jamie's sister, Rose, was blown up by a terrorist bomb. His family is torn apart by their grief. His mum runs away. His dad turns to drink and hate. Rose's surviving twin sister Jasmine stops eating, gets piercings and dyes her hair pink - anything to look different to her twin. But Jamie hasn't cried in all that time. To him, Rose is just a distant memory.Jamie is far more interested in his cat, Roger, his Spiderman T-shirt, and his deep longing and unshakeable belief that his Mum will come back to the family she walked out on months ago.But moving away for a Fresh New Start introduces Jamie to something else very interesting - a girl named Sunya. Sunya is bright, exciting and fun, and the one person at school he can call a friend. But how far can this new friendship grow when Jamie is desperate that his dad doesn't find out?

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Book SynopsisAdnan is the heartwarming story of a refugee boy’s attempts to heal his mother’s mental health issues with the power of his creativity as they rebuild their lives in their new home. Sometimes, when something sad happens, people can push it so far down because it hurts too much. That’s why Mummy doesn’t remember. This touching and sensitively told children's book is a story about a boy and his mother, about trauma and recovery, and how to deal with the challenges of mental health. It tells the story of an imaginative ten-year-old Syrian refugee boy who flees his home country with his mother. Now settled in the UK, he must use all his creativity to break through his mother’s PTSD or risk losing her forever. The book is based on a short film of the same name, which has collected multiple awards and made Official Selection at its first Oscar q

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Book Synopsis**Soon to be a major motion picture**It is a universally acknowledged truth that high school sucks. But on the first day of his senior year, Greg Gaines thinks he's figured it out. The answer to the basic existential question: How is it possible to exist in a place that sucks so bad? His strategy: remain at the periphery at all times. Keep an insanely low profile. Make mediocre films with the one person who is even sort of his friend, Earl.This plan works for exactly eight hours. Then Greg's mother forces him to become friends with a girl who has cancer. This brings about the destruction of Greg's entire life.Trade ReviewThis was probably the funniest book I've ever read... Everyone should read this book. * Guardian *Funny, warm, enjoyably scatterbrained... An honest depiction of society's reaction to illness and death. * The Observer *This surprising gem is at once moving and hilarious... Greg and his misadventures will have you laughing out loud. * Book Trust *Dead funny... Shows just how much fun reading and writing can be. * The Australian *Hilarious, irreverent, sometimes rude and ultimately very touching. It's a great read and is highly recommended. * Canberra Times *

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Book SynopsisThis must-have companion to the picture book phenomenon The Invisible String -- which has sold over a million copies to date -- uses more than 50 art and writing activities (plus bonus reflection cards!) to help build self-esteem and healthy relationships, and to celebrate the power of love.The bestselling picture book The Invisible String has been used successfully by countless parents, caregivers, therapists, and organizations who work with people coping with separation. Now, The Invisible String Workbook allows readers of all ages who have experienced any kind of separation or loss to delve deeper into their relationships, to engage in healing conversations, and to build stronger attachments. Written in collaboration with Dana Wyss, PhD, an art therapist who has used The Invisible String in clinics for years, this 112-page write-in book will help spread the power of The Invisible String to the communities who most need it -- whether

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Book SynopsisAward-winning picture book star Oliver Jeffers explores themes of love and loss in this life-affirming and uplifting tale.Once there was a girl whose life was filled with wonder at the world around herThen one day something happened that made the girl take her heart and put it in a safe place. However, after that it seemed that the world was emptier than before. But would she know how to get her heart back?In this deeply moving story, Oliver Jeffers deals with the weighty themes of love and loss with an extraordinary lightness of touch and shows us, ultimately, that there is always hope.Trade ReviewPraise for The Heart and the Bottle: “Beautifully produced and profoundly moving… It made me cry, and I’m pretty sure I won’t be the only one.” The Irish Times “Jeffers anatomises loss and the processes of grief with an honesty and ingenuity that will move adults and children of any age.” Telegraph Praise for Oliver Jeffers: “Oliver Jeffers makes impressive use of space in this affecting story of friendship … illustrations capture feelings of loss and loneliness through the most delicate nuances of facial expression … and body language.” Julia Eccleshare, The Guardian “Hail to new talent … If only all picture books could be this good.” The Bookseller

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Book SynopsisThe horse arrives in the storm, when Merryn needs him most, followingthe loss of her father. Sorrel is a dreamlike creature, seeminglymade from the woods and the sea. Throughout the summer andautumn, they ride and play, but as Christmas approaches, it willrequire all of Merryn's new-found strength to help her mum and hersisters heal too.

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Book SynopsisWinner of the Waterstone's Children's Book Prize, Artichoke Hearts by Sita Brahmachari is an incredibly insightful, honest novel exploring the delicate balance, and often injustice, of life and death – but at its heart is a celebration of friendship, culture, and life.'Heart-healing, deeply enriching and utterly chaotic . . . Be ready to have this one stay with you.' - Onjali Q Raúf author of The Boy at the Back of the ClassTwelve-year-old Mira comes from a chaotic, artistic and outspoken family where it’s not always easy to be heard. As her beloved Nana Josie's health declines, Mira begins to discover the secrets of those around her, and also starts to keep some of her own. She is drawn to mysterious Jide, a boy who is clearly hiding a troubled past and has grown hardened layers – like those of an artichoke – around his heart. As Mira is experiencing grief for the first time, she is also discovering the wondrous and often mystical world around her.Trade ReviewHeart-healing, deeply enriching and utterly chaotic, Mira is a heroine after our own multi-layered hearts: being one perpetually teetering on the cusp of all that life throws at her, as she confronts the whole spectrum of experiences - from deep grief, to the blossoming of a first love to the security of lifetime-old friendships. Who can't help but be mesmerised by the hilarious, dear characters which all work to leave a permanent mark on both Mira and her readers - from the curt Nana Josie to the elusive Jide to the ever-present Millie, and ultimately, not have us fall in love with them too? A deeply unforgettable, gorgeous story. Be ready to have this one stay with you. -- Onjali Q Raúf author of The Boy at the Back of the ClassThis is heartfelt story-telling at its best – of goodbyes and new beginnings, of fierce family bonds and the wonder of first love. I tucked in close to Mira through all the ups and downs, sharing every emotion as she does. A very special book and so very excited that this celebratory 10 Year Edition will bring Sita’s powerful story to new readers. -- Jasbinder Bilan, author of Asha and the Spirit BirdThese particular artichoke hearts have been marinated in some powerful ingredients * Guardian *Brimming with emotional honesty, the voices of all the characters have an authenticity that allows the painful situations to be lightened by gentle humour . . . This is a brave and ambitious book that succeeds on every level. A wonderful debut from a new talent * Daily Mail *A beautiful book! It all had such a true ring to it . . . -- Jamila GavinYoung readers who have experienced bereavement will find this novel touches them on many levels, while for others it may help them reflect on a subject many find hard to think about, let alone discuss, and feel less afraid * Books for Keeps *A welter of emotions engulf Mira in this touching pre-teen story about secrets and how to keep them and share them. Mira tells her story with appealing directness -- Julia Eccleshare * LoveReading.co.uk *Artichoke hearts is a novel about many things: love, loss, acceptance, family, friendship . . . [it] draws on real life in a way that makes you think it could be talking about your friends or relatives. It really is a special book, and it's one that will stay with me for a very long time -- Jenny Davies * Wondrous Reads *Artichoke Hearts sits somewhere between a fairy tale and a family story. In Mira and her fabulous Nana Josie, we see a beautiful counterpoint between the two distinct life processes of growing up and saying goodbye to life. We are shown how in heartbreak and sadness, the strongest colours of communal spirit and family relationships can shine bright. A life-affirming book! -- Sarah Jane Fenton, child psychotherapist

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Book SynopsisFrom the acclaimed author of Sunday Times no. 1 bestseller Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, a YA novel of hope, love and redemption about Liz's life after life. ONE OF TIME MAGAZINE'S 100 BEST YA BOOKS OF ALL TIME Welcome to Elsewhere. It is warm, with a breeze, and the beaches are beautiful. It's quiet and peaceful. You can't get sick and you can't get older. In Elsewhere, death is only the beginning … Elsewhere is where fifteen-year-old Liz Hall ends up, after she is killed in a hit-and-run accident. It is a place very like Earth, yet completely different. Here Liz will age backwards from the day of her death until she becomes a baby again and returns to Earth. But Liz wants to turn sixteen, not fourteen again. She wants to get her driving licence. She wants to graduate from high school and go to college. She doesn't want to get to know a grandmother she's never met before and have to make all-new friends. How can Liz let go of the only life she has ever known and embrace a new one? Or is it possible that a life lived in reverse is no different from a life lived forward? “Every so often a book comes along with a premise so fresh and arresting it seems to exist in a category all its own. Elsewhere is such a book” – New York Times Book ReviewTrade ReviewEvery so often a book comes along with a premise so fresh and arresting it seems to exist in a category all its own. Elsewhere by Gabrielle Zevin, is such a book. Zevin’s touch is marvelously light even as she considers profundities, easily moving among humor, wisdom and lyricism … No plot synopsis can convey what a rich, wise spell this book casts * The New York Times Book Review *Fascinating. Zevin, in her first novel for young people, bends the laws of physics and biology to create an intricately imagined world * Publishers Weekly *So convincing you find yourself wanting to read the book backwards when you've finished * Sunday Telegraph *

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Book SynopsisChildren find grief difficult, and understanding where a loved one has gone can be a tricky topic to explain...Billy misses his mummy very much. She lives in the clouds. Some days the sun is shining and Mummy''s clouds are nowhere to be seen. Those are Billy''s favourite days. He and Daddy would play in the garden all day long, and Billy knows that Mummy is letting the sun shine for them. But not all days are like that. Sometimes Mummy''s clouds are dark, and Billy feels sad and alone.This moving and sensitively-written picture book gently explores grief and teaches children how to deal with their emotions surrounding the death of a loved one. With beautiful and colourful illustrations to accompany the touching narrative, this children''s book is perfect for adults to share with their little ones and to help them understand what they are going through.You don''t have to weather the storm alone! The loss of a loved one can be a difficult topic to di

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Book Synopsis*Read before you see the film - in cinemas this October!!* Dear Evan Hansen, Today''s going to be an amazing day and here''s why...When a letter that was never meant to be seen draws high school senior Evan Hansen into the Murphy family''s grief over the loss of their son, he is given the chance of a lifetime: to belong. He just has to stick to a lie he never meant to tell. That the notoriously troubled Connor Murphy was his secret best friend.Suddenly, Evan isn''t invisible anymore. And Connor''s wealthy parents have taken him in like he was their own, desperate to know more about their enigmatic son from his ''closest friend''.As Evan gets pulled deeper into their family, he knows that what he''s doing may not be right, but if he''s helping people, how wrong can it be?No longer tangled in his once-incapacitating anxiety, this new Evan has a purpose.He''s confTrade ReviewEven in book form, Evan Hansen's story sings. Required reading, especially for anyone who's ever needed to be found * Becky Albertalli, author of Love Simon *Dear Evan Hansen: The Novel is a terrific reinvention of an already brilliant piece of art * Jodi Picoult, author of My Sister's Keeper *Yep, the hit musical will make you cry just as much in book form * Entertainment Weekly *A must-read for teens and those who care about them * Publishers Weekly *The writers of Dear Evan Hansen have given fans a rare gift * Teen Vogue *

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Book SynopsisSHORTLISTED FOR THE CARNEGIE MEDAL and the CLIPPA ‘Hoop kings SOAR in kicks with wings. Game so sweet it’s like bee stings.’ It's 1988. Charlie Bell is still mourning his father, and struggling to figure out how he feels for his best (girl) friend, CJ. When he gets into trouble one too many times, he's packed off to stay with his grandparents for the summer. There his cousin Roxie introduces him to a whole new world: basketball. A legend on the courts is born. But can Charlie resist when trouble comes knocking once again? From the New York Times-bestselling author Kwame Alexander, Rebound is a stunning coming-of-age novel in verse about basketball, family and staying true to yourself. A prequel to The Crossover, winner of the Newbery Medal, and follow-up to Booked, highly commended for the CLiPPA prize and nominated for the Carnegie Medal. With comic-book illustrations from award-winning graphic novel artist Dawud Anyabwile.Trade Review"Alexander effortlessly marries rap rhythms with plaintive, passionate and deceptively simple verse" -- Imogen Russell Williams * Guardian *"Designed to appeal to reluctant readers, little prevents the rest of us being caught up by the comic-mad Charlie Bell" -- Kitty Empire * Observer *"Alexander manages to distill huge emotions into punchy poems that leap off the page. Interspersed throughout with vibrant comic strips drawn by Dawud Anyabwile, this is an energetic and dynamic story that is full of heart." * Scotsman *"The poetry grabs you and just won't let you go, everyone must read this book." -- Emily Drabble * Books For Keeps - Books of the Year 2018 *"Interspersed with amazing 'comic-strip' illustrations... The rhythm and pace of this verse novel pulls readers aged 11+ into Charlie's world." * Best New Children's Books Guide, produced by the Publishers' Association and published in the Guardian 2018 *"Rebound is funny, moving and full of great ideas on how to live your life – and almost impossible not to read in one sitting." -- Emily Drabble * BookTrust *"Once again, Alexander has given readers an African-American protagonist to cheer. He is surrounded by a strong supporting cast, especially two brilliant female characters. The novel in verse is enhanced by Anyabwile's art, which reinforces Charlie's love for comics. An eminently satisfying story of family, recovery, and growing into manhood." -- starred review * Kirkus *"The sad, funny poems, dialogues and beautiful snatches of comic-strip illustrations will make readers laugh and cry, sometimes at the same time." * Inis Reading Guide *"The plot, as rich and satisfying as it is, is outdazzled by the brilliance of wordplay and syntax. Librarians who delighted at The Crossover’s popularity will be thrilled with this pitch-perfect follow-up. Alexander is unstoppable, and his fans will be too. Have extra copies at the ready." -- starred review * Booklist *"Alexander’s verse maintains energy and momentum. A strong and satisfying book about grief, love and the power of family" * New York Times *

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Book SynopsisCemetery Boys is an LGBTQIA+ ghost story about magic, acceptance and what it means to be your true self. From the instant New York Times-bestelling author Aiden Thomas.Yadriel has summoned a ghost, and now he can’t get rid of him.In an attempt to prove himself a true brujo and gain his family’s acceptance, Yadriel decides to summon his cousin’s ghost and help him cross to the afterlife.But things get complicated when he accidentally summons the ghost of his high school’s resident bad boy, Julian Diaz – and Julian won't go into death quietly.The two boys must work together if Yadriel is to move forward with his plan.But the more time Yadriel and Julian spend together, the harder it is to let each other go . . .'A celebration of culture and identity that will captivate readers with its richly detailed world, earnest romance, and thrilling supernatural mystery' &ndasTrade ReviewCemetery Boys is necessary: for trans kids, for queer kids, for those in the Latinx community who need to see themselves on the page. Don’t miss this book. -- Mark Oshiro, author of Anger is a GiftAiden Thomas' debut novel can't help but charm and captivate readers of all ages, though teen readers will invariably identify with and appreciate the high jinks and emotional vulnerability that make each character and scenario deliciously enchanting. * Booklist, starred review *Thomas injects the queer paranormal romance genre with a fresh shot of lavishly detailed Latinx culture, blending in Mayan, Mexican, Central American and South American traditions while commenting on cultural appropriation, deportation and class. * New York Times Book Review *This book is magical, tender, loving, and so so so important. I love it with all my heart. -- Mason Deaver, author of I Wish You All The BestThe novel perfectly balances the vibrant, energetic Latinx culture while delving into heavy topics like LGBTQ+ acceptance, deportation, colonization, and racism within authoritative establishments * TeenVogue.com *Cemetery Boys is a celebration of culture and identity that will captivate readers with its richly detailed world, earnest romance, and thrilling supernatural mystery. This delightful debut is a must-read for all paranormal romance fans. -- Isabel Sterling, author of These Witches Don't BurnThomas marries concept and execution in a romantic mystery as poignant as it is spellbinding, weaved in a mosaic of culture, acceptance, and identity, where intricately crafted characters are the pieces and love?platonic, romantic, familial, and communal?is the glue. * Publishers Weekly, starred review *Cemetery Boys is nothing short of an astonishing work of art. Aiden Thomas masterfully weaves a tale of family, friendships, and love in a heartwarming adventure full of affirmation and being your best self. -- C.B. Lee, author of Not Your SidekickA gay, transgender brujo with burgeoning powers seeks answers about his cousin’s death... Both the romance and mystery burn slow and hot until the climax... Their romance provides joyful, ground-breaking representation for gay, transgender boys. Heart-pounding. * Kirkus *A story much bigger than the paper that binds it, Cemetery Boys is the tender intricacy we have all been waiting for. -- Kayla Ancrum, author of The Wicker KingSpeaking from experience, this is the kind of book that you read and then immediately go force all your friends to read so they can share the pleasure. * Buzzfeed *A wildly memorable novel. * Paste *This one is just what your heart needs right now. * Tor.com *Thomas sensitively navigates Yadriel’s struggles as a trans teen . . . In spite of some heavy themes, this is a pleasing ghost-story-turned-romcom. * Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books *Packed with eerie adventure, tingly romance, and family drama, the novel lays bare the tension between upholding tradition and reaching full self-acceptance. Cheeky, relatable characters bring humor and lightness into Thomas’s debut, which also takes on themes of death, loss, abandonment, and rejection. * Horn Book *

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Book SynopsisMeet Sunshine Simpson - a brand-new best friend for 9+ readers! Perfect for fans of Jacqueline Wilson.Sunshine Simpson's larger-than-life Grandad is always telling her to get out and find her own adventures, but unfortunately BAD LUCK has a habit of coming her way.Her new friend Evie is fast becoming a FRENEMY, her home haircut is a DISASTER, and the school showcase is so STRESSFUL! Everything seems to be going wrong! Especially with Grandad getting older every week.Sunshine needs to find her voice, but can she break through the clouds to stand tall, stand proud, and show the world she can shine?PRAISE FOR MY NAME IS SUNSHINE SIMPSON"An utterly briliant book that had me laughing and crying in equal measure. G.M. Linton has created a truly radiant heroine. It is officially a new favourite." Tolá Okogwu, author of Onyeka and the Academy of the Sun"A book as warm and radiant as sunshine itself! I loved it." Lisa Thompson, author of The Goldfish Boy"A beautiful, heartwarming hug of a book about the power of self-acceptance. I defy anyone not to fall in love with Sunshine!" Hannah Gold, author of The Last Bear"I loved this book, Sunshine entirely lives up to her name in this delightful story that manages to be both sincerely heartfelt and sparklingly funny in equal measure." L.D. Lapinski, author of The Strangeworlds Travel Agency"A huge, uplifting hug with a message that says: be yourself; be proud of who you are." Jen Carney, author of The Accidental Diary of B.U.G"The story is filled with heart, humour, joy and sadness. I couldn't stop reading." Serena Patel, author of the Anisha, Accidental Detective series"Sunshine lives up to her name - she's charming and hilarious" Aisha Bushby, author of A Pocketful of Stars"This book made me LAUGH and how it made me CRY" Rashmi Sirdeshpande, author of How to Change the WorldTrade ReviewA book as warm and radiant as sunshine itself! I loved it. -- Lisa Thompson, author of The Goldfish BoyA beautiful, heartwarming hug of a book about the power of self-acceptance. I defy anyone not to fall in love with Sunshine! * Hannah Gold, author of The Last Bear *Great if you are a fan of Jacqueline Wilson * BBC Radio 4's Front Row *I loved this book, Sunshine entirely lives up to her name in this delightful story that manages to be both sincerely heartfelt and sparklingly funny in equal measure. * L.D. Lapinski, author of The Strangeworlds Travel Agency *I was utterly enthralled by this heartwarming story. Through Sunshine, G.M. Linton has perfectly captured childhood insecurities and wrapped them up in a huge, uplifting hug with a message that says: be yourself; be proud of who you are. I particularly loved the story's celebration of the Windrush generation, the palpable sense of community, and the warmth I felt when reading about Sunshine's wonderful bond with her Grandad Bobby. -- Jen Carney, author of The Accidental Diary of B.U.G.Sunshine lives up to her name - she's charming and hilarious and so is this wonderful debut title. -- Aisha Bushby, author of A Pocketful of StarsThis is a very special book and like the warmest hug. I loved Sunshine, her voice is so real and relatable. Her family are gorgeous. The story is filled with heart, humour, joy and sadness. I couldn't stop reading. * Serena Patel, author of the Anisha, Accidental Detective series *This uplifting and charming middle-grade by G.M. Linton is warm and funny. It puts a spotlight on the Windrush generation and has the most wonderful grandpa! You'll love it. * A.M. Dassu, author of Boy Everywhere *Powerful and poignant, it's a celebration of the Windrush generation and the achievements of Black heroes, and it's infused with Caribbean humour, warmth and wisdom...an exciting new voice and one to watch.Every so often I discover a new writer who completely blows me away. This is one of them. I can't tell you how this book made me LAUGH and how it made me CRY. And how I kept thinking just how lucky we all are that books like this exist today. I'm just so in love with this book.When you find something as special as this, you want everyone to read it!so moving, but also hilarious and heartwarmingIt's all so warm and wonderful. -- Rashmi Sirdeshpande, author of How To Be ExtraordinaryAn utterly brilliant book that had me laughing and crying in equal measure. G.M. Linton has created a truly radiant heroine. It is officially a new favourite. * Tolá Okogwu, author of Onyeka and the Academy of the Sun *

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Book Synopsis''The playful, obstinate and courageously humorous tone of Zephaniah''s writing shines through ... hilarious and later heartbreaking'' GuardianA teacher is dead, murdered by two of his students in front of the whole school.Right in front of Jackson Jones.But Mr Joseph was a good man people liked him, respected him. How could those boys stab him and jog away like nothing had happened?Unable to process what he has seen, Jackson begins his own investigation: everyone knows who did it, but as Jackson uncovers more about the boys, he becomes convinced that people need to understand why. Brilliantly written and with a real ear for dialogue, fans of Angie Thomas and Malorie Blackman will love Benjamin Zephaniah''s novels for young adult readers: Refugee BoyFaceGangsta RapTeacher''s DeadTrade ReviewBenjamin 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 *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 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 *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 *

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Book SynopsisA heartbreakingly honest account of a father's grief for his son from the illustrious pairing of two former Children's Laureates.Very occasionally the term non-fiction has to stretch itself to accommodate a book that fits into no category at all. Michael Rosen''s Sad Book is such a book. It chronicles Michael''s grief at the death of his son Eddie from meningitis at the age of 19. A moving combination of sincerity and simplicity, it acknowledges that sadness is not always avoidable or reasonable and perfects the art of making complicated feelings plain. It wasn''t made like any other book either; Michael Rosen said of the text, I wrote it at a moment of extreme feeling and it went straight down onto the page ... Quentin didn''t illustrate it, he ''realized'' it. He turned the text into a book and as a result showed me back to myself. No writer could ask and get more than that. And Quentin Blake says that the picture of Michael being sad but trying to look happTrade ReviewWith emotional elegance and nuance, he welcomes and unpicks each layer of mourning and explains why it’s ok to be sad. A painful, yet surprisingly uplifting read that’s suitable for both children and adults. * The Independent *A beautifully illustrated read for adults and children about love and loss which explains why it's ok to be sad sometimes * Psychologies Magazine *If you read just one book to a child who has experienced the death of someone close to them it should be (this) * Daily Telegraph *Explains sadness and grief in a manner that children can comprehend * Gobblefunked *The beauty of this book is that the words and the pictures knit together so well. -- Tony RossImportant and astonishing . . . Blake’s pictures are a triumph. They combine perfectly recognisable portraits of Rosen with expressionism, proving that Blake’s seemingly spontaneous style is born out of practice and precision. Both the words and the images articulate strong emotion with admirable economy and convey a sense of the preciousness of life without being sentimental, platitudinous or falsely hopeful. At moments, the story is even funny. This valuable book is painful, but its honesty is surprisingly uplifting. It is a huge achievement by both author and illustrator. -- Nicolette Jones * The Sunday Times *An eloquent and affecting portrait of sadness, this book packs wisdom into very few words. * The Guardian, ‘Picture Books on Prescription’ *Featured in ‘20 Greatest Mental Health Books’ in Happiful. * Happiful *One of the greatest books on grief for children, indeed, for anyone. * i News *

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Book SynopsisAt Finn's funeral, grieving best friend Eric receives a message frombeyond the grave - and it must be because this is Finn's biggestprank ever, faking his own death! As Eric follows Finn's crypticinstructions for various challenges, he goes down memory laneand through a scavenger hunt that will change him for ever.

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Book SynopsisA beautiful and gentle look at the circle of life, using Christine Pym's gorgeous animals characters to explore the emotions and facts around death, with questions such as Is it ok to talk about dying? What happens when someone dies? Can I shout and cry and hide away? and How can I stop feeling sad?

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Book SynopsisPainting brings joy in a moment of grief in this moving and ultimately uplifting story inspired by the childhood of French portrait artist Élisabeth Louise Vigée Le Brun. Elisabeth loves to paint, just like her papa. She spends hours making her own pictures of everything she sees – and the more colourful, the better! But when she goes away to school, she finds herself in a world of grey: grey buildings, grey uniforms, grey rooms. She misses Papa and all the colours of home. And one winter morning, she gets some terrible news that makes her days darker than ever before. Will Elisabeth be able to find the colour and joy in her life again? A touching tale about friendship, family and finding joy in the darkest of times. Inspired by the childhood of French portrait artist Élisabeth Louise Vigée Le Brun.Trade Review"A small, elegant triumph" – The Times, Children's Book of the Week "Woodfine's beautifully handled tale of finding life and colour amidst the darkest of times is a moving, uplifting read" – Waterstones "An enchanting and engaging treasure of a story" – Historian Next Door "Wonderful on so many levels … The story covers separation and grief in a gentle, sensitive way and would be perfect for anyone wanting or needing books around these issues. As an educationalist I cannot recommend this book highly enough" – NetGalley review

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Book SynopsisLife-affirming and lyrical, this beautiful picture book celebrates the awesome power of nature, while gently introducing young children to the concept of life and death.Over the course of a year, a young child and their dog watch kingfishers by the river with Grandpa. As spring turns to summer and autumn to winter, the kingfishers raise a family, while Grandpa teaches his grandchild about the power of nature and the circle of life.Written in memory of her father, whose favourite bird was the kingfisher, Anna Wilson takes readers on a lyrical journey though a year in the life of a kingfisher family. Stunning illustrations by Sarah Massini bring the riverbank to life in all its glory, while the powerful intergenerational bond between grandparent and grandchild shows that just as spring always follows winter, hope will always return if you know where to look for it.A positive story about life, death, and being a part of the natural world.

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Book Synopsis*Read the book before you see the film, out September 2021!* Dear Evan Hansen, Today''s going to be an amazing day and here''s why...When a letter that was never meant to be seen draws high school senior Evan Hansen into the Murphy family''s grief over the loss of their son, he is given the chance of a lifetime: to belong. He just has to stick to a lie he never meant to tell. That the notoriously troubled Connor Murphy was his secret best friend.Suddenly, Evan isn''t invisible anymore. And Connor''s wealthy parents have taken him in like he was their own, desperate to know more about their enigmatic son from his ''closest friend''.As Evan gets pulled deeper into their family, he knows that what he''s doing may not be right, but if he''s helping people, how wrong can it be?No longer tangled in his once-incapacitating anxiety, this new Evan has a purpose.He''s conTrade ReviewEven in book form, Evan Hansen's story sings. Required reading, especially for anyone who's ever needed to be found * Becky Albertalli, author of Love Simon *Dear Evan Hansen: The Novel is a terrific reinvention of an already brilliant piece of art * Jodi Picoult, author of My Sister's Keeper *Yep, the hit musical will make you cry just as much in book form * Entertainment Weekly *A must-read for teens and those who care about them * Publishers Weekly *The writers of Dear Evan Hansen have given fans a rare gift * Teen Vogue *PRAISE FOR DEAR EVAN HANSEN:A gorgeous new musical for anyone with a beating heart * The New York Times *One of the most remarkable shows in musical theatre history * The Washington Post *As eagerly awaited as Hamilton * Baz Bamingboye, Mail on Sunday *

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Book SynopsisWINNER OF AN ABA AWARD. Innocent by day, killer by night: a dark, twisting thriller about a teen assassin’s attempt to live a normal life. Don't miss the second book in the trilogy, The Hummingbird Killer, out now.  'An electrifying debut!’ Chelsea Pitcher, author of This Lie Will Kill You Trained and traumatised by a secret assassin programme for minors, Isabel Ryans wants nothing more than to be a normal civilian. After running away from home, she has a new name, a new life and a new friend, Emma, and for the first time, things are looking up. But old habits die hard, and it’s not long until she blows her cover, drawing the attention of the guilds – the two rival organisations who control the city of Espera. An unaffiliated killer like Isabel is either a potential asset . . . or a threat to be eliminated. Will the blood on her hands cost her everything?

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