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

Book SynopsisFrom the bestselling queen of heart and humour, JENNY PEARSON, comes a great big soaring adventure about family and finding happiness. When Frank John Davenport inherits piles of money from a grandma he didn't know he had, things take an unexpected turn... Because the money comes with STRICT instructions...and a NEW grandpa. Frank quickly compiles a list of all the ways he can spend the money and look after his grumpy grandpa. Money may buy hot-air balloon rides, monster-truck lessons and epic parkour experiences, but can Frank discover that happiness is, in fact, priceless?Praise for Jenny Pearson SHORTLISTED FOR THE COSTA BOOK AWARD, WATERSTONES CHILDREN'S BOOK PRIZE, LAUGH OUT LOUD BOOK AWARD and the BRANFORD BOASE AWARDBreaks records for funny and touching storytelling. David BaddielAs funny and tender as it could ever be. Frank Cottrell-BoyceHeart-warming and genuinely funny. The TimesTrade ReviewThis story handles loss and loneliness lightly, believes families should support and forgive each other, and offers lots of cheekiness and giggles. * The Sunday Times, Children's Book of the Week *Young Frank discovers that the best things in life are priceless in this family adventure. * Sunday Express *This rollicking adventure is also a tender portrait of dysfunctional families and the importance of connecting through the generations... Wonderfully drawn characters and fizzing, funny energy collide in this joy of a book. * Daily Mail *Pearson deals with tricky subjects with her customary blend of poignancy and humour * The Mail on Sunday *It's heartfelt, hilarious and full of misadventure. I loved it. * Serena Patel, author of Anisha, Accidental Detective *

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A boy awakens in the Afterlife, with a pocketful of vague memories, a key, a raven, and a mysterious atlas to guide him as he sets out to piece together what happened, and try to find his way home ...Twig is alone as a newly-made street kid after his dad goes missing. But when he meets Flea, a cheerful pickpocket, the pair become fast friends. Together, Twig and Flea raise themselves on the crime-ridden streets, taking what they need and giving the rest to the even-poorer. Life is good, as long as they have each other.But then Twig wakes up in the Afterlife with just a handful of memories from Earth and one big question ... how did he get there?Loyalty will be tested, and a cruel twist of fate will lead to an act of ultimate betrayal in this epic story that spans a city, a decade, and the divide of life and death itself. From the award-winning author of The Bone Sparrow.

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Book SynopsisRumi Seto spends a lot of time worrying. What to eat, where to go, who to love. But one thing she is sure of she wants to spend her life writing music with her younger sister, Lea. Then Lea dies in a car accident, and Rumi is sent to live with her aunt in Hawaii. Now, miles from home, Rumi struggles to navigate the loss of her sister, feeling abandoned by her mother, and the aching absence of music. With the help of the "boys next door" teenage surfer Kai, who doesn't take anything too seriously, and old George Watanabe, who succumbed to grief years ago Rumi seeks her way back to music, to write the song she and Lea never had the chance to finish. With unflinching honesty, Summer Bird Blue explores big truths about insurmountable grief, unconditional love, and how to forgive even when it feels impossible.Trade Review“Raw, real and deeply hopeful. I will read anything Akemi Dawn Bowman writes.” ALICE OSEMAN, author of I Was Born For This and Radio Silence; “Bowman dives into the sea of grief with her protagonist and celebrates the kinds of love that are eclipsed all too often. With this remarkable book, she has cemented her position as one of the most progressive and insightful authors of her generation.” SAMANTHA SHANNON, author of The Priory of the Orange Tree and The Bone Season series; “Summer Bird Blue is without a doubt one of the best books I’ve read this year. It grabs your heart and won’t let go.” BOOK RIOT

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Book SynopsisThe dazzling follow-up to the phenomenal The Book of Stolen Dreams from master storyteller David Farr, perfect for fans of Katherine Rundell and Philip Pullman.Step inside the pages of an immortal adventure...Rachel and Robert have defeated the tyrant Malstain and become the heroes of Krasnia, but all is not how it should be. Robert is swept away with his new friends, leaving Rachel alone to take care of her ailing father, who's lost without their beloved mother.From nowhere, a boy appears knowing the secrets of the hidden blood-red key. For the key is a way into the Hinterland - and Rachel must promise that, as a new key keeper, she will answer when it calls. When a young girl, Elsa Spiegel, is illegally smuggled into the Hinterland, Rachel has no choice but to use her key to save Elsa. But her fate is linked to Krasnia, and Rachel must battle to save her home as she knows it.Praise for The Book of Stolen Dreams:"A new and important voice for young people." Michael Morpurgo"Dazzling! An instant classic. An eye-wateringly funny and jaw-droppingly fantastical adventure, chock-a-block with rare books, airships, and penguin-shaped hats." Ben Miller"A wonderful story. Gripping and magical." Anthony HorowitzTrade ReviewThe second adventure in this series is just as exiting and inventive as the first. * The Week Junior *

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Book SynopsisWhat Does Dead Mean? is a beautifully illustrated book that guides children gently through 17 of the 'big' questions they often ask about death and dying. Questions such as 'Is being dead like sleeping?', 'Why do people have to die?' and 'Where do dead people go?' are answered simply, truthfully and clearly to help adults explain to children what happens when someone dies. Prompts encourage children to explore the concepts by talking about, drawing or painting what they think or feel about the questions and answers. Suitable for children aged 4+, this is an ideal book for parents and carers to read with their children, as well as teachers, therapists and counsellors working with young children.Trade ReviewThis practical book is designed to help parents and carers answer some of the difficult questions that children often ask after someone has died. It also gives children the opportunity to explore and discuss their own thoughts and feelings about death, with a caring and supportive adult... This book uses gentle illustrations and easy to read text... A helpful list of websites and organisations offer additional support for children and their families. -- Youth in MindHonest, gentle and frank, this book doesn't shy away from difficult areas or try to mask the truth... A reassuring book for young child and adults to share, offering real answers and ways to work through grief, as well as a list of bereavement websites. -- School LibrarianDeath is never easy, but looking at this book together might help everyone understand and release their emotions and so move along a path of coping with what has happened. -- JunoThis is an excellent and beautifully produced book on the general subject of death, aimed precisely at very young children. -- Healthy BooksThis would be a useful book to have tucked away on the shelf in the hospice, to be loaned out from time to time. -- IAHPC NewsletterChildren's questions are a window to their souls and a mirror to their inner thoughts and feelings. This important book allows caring adults to acknowledge and explore these questions with children in a sensitive and informed way. I highly recommend What Does Dead Mean? for anyone who aspires to create a meaningful dialogue with children about death. -- Linda Goldman, author of Children Also Grieve and Life and Loss: A Guide to Helping Bereaved ChildrenAt last a book that really answers the questions or fears a child may have about death. I would recommend this to any parent who, like me, wonders how they will support their child through the death of a loved family member, friend, or even pet. I will have it waiting on our shelf and hope that schools will snap it up as a fantastic 'information' book for teachers to use and children to access in the school library. -- Gabby Hails-Smith, parentThis is a truly delightful book which would be an invaluable resource for any adult wishing to support young children through an experience of death. -- Noel Purdy, Stranmillis University College, Belfast * NAPCE Journal: Pastoral Care in Education *

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SOON TO BE A MAJOR FILM STARRING CHLOE GRACE MORETZ Just listen,' Adam says with a voice that sounds like shrapnel. I open my eyes wide now. I sit up as much as I can. And I listen.'Stay,' he says.Everybody has to make choices.Some might break you.For seventeen-year-old Mia, surrounded by a wonderful family, friends and a gorgeous boyfriend decisions might seem tough, but they're all about a future full of music and love, a future that's brimming with hope. But life can change in an instant. A cold February morning . . . a snowy road . . . and suddenly all of Mia's choices are gone. Except one. As alone as she'll ever be, Mia must make the most difficult choice of all.Gripping, heartrending and ultimately life-affirming, If I Stay will make you appreciate all that you have, all that you've lost - and all that might be.INCLUDES INTERVIEWS WITH THE STARS OF THE FILM!

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Book SynopsisAn almost single-color picture book tracks the path of grief, ending with the uplifting new beginning of a budding friendship based on understanding. When the little bird dies, his friend the bear is inconsolable. Full of grief, he locks himself in his house and ventures out again only when the smell of young spring grass blows through his window. He always carries a small box, which he opens for no one. He meets a wildcat who understands his need to carry the box. As the cat plays on her violin, the bear remembers all the beauty he experienced with the little bird. Now he can bury his friend, keeping him alive in his memories and feelings. The Bear and the Wildcat shows a way through paralyzing grief and simultaneously tells the story of a hopeful new friendship.Trade Review"Quietly contemplative, mingling hope and healing, this is a book that will offer comfort to many." -- Kirkus Reviews, starred review, Best Book of the Year 2023"A touchstone for talking about loss." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review"A tender story and forward-looking book for children who have loved and lost." -- Wall Street Journal, USA"If grieving people are allowed to grieve, then they will find their way back to the joy of life - that’s the message of this delicate Japanese book." -- Hella Kemper * Die Zeit *"This extraordinary picture book tells the story of a bear whose best friend, a small bird, has died. The reader follows Bear as he mourns his companion but also as he begins to find renewed meaning in his life following a chance encounter with a musical cat. This powerful story deals with one of life’s most complicated and painful aspects with delicacy and honesty. Intricately layered pencil illustration accompanies the tale to create a story that is very moving but also filled with hope. This would be a poignant book to support discussion of bereavement with older children." -- BookTrust"In this touching story about grief, Bear mourns the death of his friend Bird, working his way from being paralyzed by sadness to reengaging with the world." -- Booklist"A beautiful tribute to love and friendship and mourning." -- Youth Services Book Review, USFar and away my picture book of the year... This moving story of a bear whose best friend (a bird) has died tackles a difficult subject with sensitivity and grace. Meg Rosoff, Saturday Times, UKBereavement is a difficult theme for young readers, but as death occurs in the world it should be addressed, sensitively, on the page ... Touching and otherworldly, brave in its treatment of loss, The Bear and the Wildcat is a hauntingly beautiful book. The Independent, UK"A modern classic." -- The School Reading List, UK

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Book SynopsisTessa has just a few months to live. So she compiles her bucket list, her To Do Before I Die list. Number one is sex.Released from the constraints of 'normal' life, Tessa tastes new experiences to make her feel alive while her failing body struggles to keep up.Heartbreaking yet astonishingly life-affirming, Before I Die will take you to the very edge.Trade ReviewNovels for young teenagers do not usually feature drugs and casual sex within the first 20-odd pages. But most books for teenagers will not leave an adult reader's eyes so blurry with tears that it's hard to see the final chapters. Jenny Downham's extraordinary first novel does both * The Sunday Times *This is an affecting and brave novel. Tessa is such a rich character . . . For everyone, it is a reminder to value the people that matter, seize the moment, wish with courage, adventure with relish, even if it's just a trip to the swimming pool, drinking hot chocolate or driving down a dual carriageway in the rain * Guardian *Destined to drive hundreds of thousands of readers to tears and to swift injunctions to all their friends to read it * Observer *Before I Die is so real, so sad, so true - and I so wish I'd written it myself * Jacqueline Wilson *Tough but tender, angry rather than resigned, Tessa is an appealing heroine whose company is never less than bracing * Independent *

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'One of the best love stories I've ever read.' Angie Thomas, bestselling author of The Hate U Give.From debut author justin a. reynolds comes The Opposite of Always, a razor-sharp, hilarious and heartfelt novel about the choices we make, the people we choose and the moments that make life worth reliving. Perfect for fans of Nicola Yoon and John Green.When Jack and Kate meet at a party, he knows he’s falling – hard. Soon she’s meeting his best friends and Kate wins them over as easily as she did Jack.But then Kate dies. And their story should end there.Yet Kate’s death sends Jack back to the beginning, the moment they first meet, and Kate’s there again. Healthy, happy, and charming as ever. Jack isn’t sure if he’s losing his mind.Still, if he has a chance to prevent Kate’s death, he’ll take it. Even if that means believing in time travel. However, Jack will learn that his actions are not without consequences. And when one choice turns deadly for someone else close to him, he has to figure out what he’s willing to do to save the people he loves.'Read this one, reread it, and then hug it to your chest.' Becky Albertalli, bestselling author of Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda

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Book SynopsisA picture book about healing after a bereavement, the death of a loved one or a family pet, by Caldecott Medallist Matthew Cordell. 'In a story that respects grief’s slow pace, Cordell’s writing and artwork together carry grace and heart.' Publishers Weekly, starred review 'Cordell speaks eloquently and respectfully to the universal experience of loss and recovery.' New York Times Louise and her family are sad after their beloved dog Charlie dies. “Life will not be the same,” Louise says, as she visits a little island that Charlie loved. But on the island, something strange happens: she meets a bear who teaches her that getting over a bereavement takes time and that sometimes, things can change for the better.Trade Review"Cordell speaks eloquently and respectfully to the universal experience of loss and recovery." * New York Times *"In a story that respects grief’s slow pace, Cordell’s writing and artwork together carry grace and heart." * Publishers Weekly, starred review *"A poetically beautiful story of grief and healing mirrored in the natural world has a touch of magical realism as a young girl processes her emotions and realizes that endings lead to beginnings." * School Library Journal *"Grief can be particularly difficult to address with young children, and Cordell wisely eschews the platitudes often associated with this emotion, choosing instead to demonstrate the healing powers of nature and time." * Booklist *"Provides youngsters with a talking point for their feelings about bereavement, and the depiction of a summer of adjustment to life without the loved one is sympathetic and patient. (Recommended.)" * Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books *

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Book SynopsisEver since his dad died in a shock accident, thirteen-year-old Gabe’s world has been turned upside-down and back to front. Literally: Gabe has discovered the ability to tell stories which take him into the past, or imagine an impossible version of the present or future that seems as real as real. Gabe has no clue what is going on. But the answers may lie with his mysterious uncle Jesse, an online game called Small Town Hero which seems to mirror Gabe’s own life, a long-lost grandmother, and the very fabric of time and the universe.Trade Review"An irresistible lead character and a plot that will melt your brain out of your ears (in the best way)" -- Patrick Ness"A brain-melting exploration of gaming, multiverse theories and the nature of life, death and the human instinct to tell stories. It is gripping – and features some thrilling football writing to boot" * Guardian *"When characters spring to life like this, even the most extraordinary, logic-defying events feel possible" -- Claire Hennessy * Irish Times, Best of 2020 *"Neate’s smart involving tale follows 13-year-old Gabe, who is mourning his father, as he finds himself sucked into a strange world" * The i *"A brilliantly rewarding and complex plot suitable for older readers, Small Town Hero is full of realistic characters and interesting philosophical ideas, as well as being a beautiful exploration of family, grief and acceptance" * BookTrust *

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Book SynopsisGrowing up, Astrid’s big sister Cecilie was her whole world. But when Cecilie’s anxiety threatens to swallow her whole, their dynamic shifts. Now Astrid must be the big sister and put her own life on hold to be by Cecilie’s side. With Astrid’s days becoming increasingly consumed by Cecilie’s mental health and her guilt at not being able to help her more, will she still have room for her best friend Jonas and the handsome Greenlandic boy who’s determined to steal her heart? A heart-breaking yet life-affirming story about trying to find your own path without losing loved ones along the way.

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Book SynopsisMarc Klein has written many well-known screenplays including the romantic comedy classic Serendipity, as well as Mirror, Mirror, a reimagining of the Snow White fairy tale. The In Between is his debut novel and the basis for the film from Paramount Pictures. Klein resides in Los Angeles.Trade ReviewAn original take on the personal nature of grief and a strong choice where YA romances are popular. * SLJ *

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Book SynopsisIf Roald Dahl had written A Monster Calls . . . A very special picture book from two rising stars.Everyone is always shouting at Gus to stop leaning back in his chair - but does he care? No way! Then sure enough, the chair falls, he cracks his head and has to spend all summer in bed. Out of the crack escape his memories, dreams and imagination ... and a beautiful little butterfly guide. Gus must follow the butterfly to recapture all he's lost, including that locked box he doesn't seem to want to touch ...Together they remember fish fingers, snapping bubble wrap, cracked pink soap and the leaky tap; they go wild, stomping around in the joy of imagination and happy dreams - but they can't go any further if Gus won't gather all of his memories. His butterfly will die unless Gus is ready to hear about his mum ... A delightful and moving exploration of grief and the joy that makes us human, from the effervescent voice of Laura Dockrill, with heartwarming full-colour illustrations from Gwen Millward.Trade ReviewThe language of Butterfly Brain is rich and full of vivid imagery . The absolutely stunning illustrations elevate the story further and intensify its emotional effect on the reader and are just the right blend of the darker, shadowy images of Gus's fears and the softness and warm colours of his positive memories about those most important to him. The gentleness and warmth of the final pages are powerful, overwhelmingly comforting and sensitive. -- Jenny Caddick * Reading Zone *The story is one of grief, loss but ultimately recovery as Gus can finally talk to his dad and grandmother about the secret he's kept locked inside himself. Despite the weight of issues being discussed, the verse retains its spark, offering reassurance and pointing the way to a brighter future for Gus and anyone facing the loss he's experienced. Gwen Millward's illustrations are equally accessible and emotionally true and it's a book that will prompt young readers to examine their own feelings and fears, and to understand why anger can be a response to sadness or anxiety. -- Andrea Reece * Books for Keeps *A highly original and memorable look at contemplation and grief * School Reading List *An exploration of grief and how memories and love help us heal ... moving and beautiful -- Alice Ellerby * Juno *Butterfly Brain is a poetic, imaginative and sensitive exploration of our innermost thoughts and emotions told in an original and fresh style accompanied by beautiful illustrations that support and add to the story. Butterfly Brain is a cautionary tale that evolves into a guide to coping with grief and loss that culminates in words of kindness, hope and comfort. -- Anne Thompson * Just Imagine *Enormously moving, forthright, and written in rhyme, this is a truly heart-rendingly incredible book that can speak to everyone, child and adult, through its words (Laura's) and its powerful pictures (Gwen's) rendered in mood-invoking hues.A definite keeper this. -- Jill R Bennett * https://redreadinghub.blog/2020/09/21/butterfly-brain/ *

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Book SynopsisA poignant yet hopeful novel about a girl navigating grief, trauma, and friendship, from Ashley Herring Blake, the award-winning author of Ivy Aberdeen's Letter to the World. Hazel Bly used to live in the perfect house with the perfect family in sunny California. But when a kayaking trip goes horribly wrong, Mum is suddenly gone forever and Hazel is left with crippling anxiety and a jagged scar on her face. After Mum's death, Hazel, her other mother, Mama, and her little sister, Peach, need a fresh start. So for the last two years, the Bly girls have lived all over the country, never settling anywhere for more than a few months. When the family arrives in Rose Harbor, Maine, there's a wildness to the small town that feels like magic. But when Mama runs into an old childhood friend—Claire—suddenly Hazel's tight-knit world is infiltrated. To make it worse, she has a daughter Hazel's age, Lemon, who can't stop rambl

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Book SynopsisIn this poignant mixed voice, mixed form collection of interconnected prose, poems and stories, teen characters, their families, and their communities grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic. Amidst fear and loss, these New York City teens prevail with love, resilience and hope. From the award-winning author of Chlorine Sky and Vinyl Moon.[A] gorgeous, tender testament to the generation of young people who shouldered the pandemic.?--Brendan Kiely, award-winning and New York Times bestselling authorGrief, pain, hope, and love collide in this short story collection. In New York City, teens, their families, and their communities feel the brunt of the COVID-19 pandemic. Amidst the fear and loss, these teens and the adults around them persevere with love and hope while living in difficult circumstances: Malachi writes an Armageddon short story inspired by his pandemic reality. Tariq helps their ailing grandmother survive during quarantine. Zamira struggles with depression and loneliness after losing her parents. Mohamed tries to help keep his community spirit alive. A social worker reflects on the ways the foster system fails their children. From award-winning author Mahogany L. Browne comes a poignant collection of interconnected prose, poems, and lists about the humanity and resilience of New Yorkers during the Covid-19 pandemic.

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Book SynopsisBeautifully told and stunningly illustrated, My Tree is a story aboutthe joy and adventure of life, the dark clouds that sometimeshang over us, and how endings can also be new beginnings. An uplifting and reassuring picture book filled with hope.

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Book SynopsisBased on the viral, heart-melting song ''Dinosaurs in Love'', comes a sweet and deceptively simple story about love, longing, and loss by three-year-old Fenn Rosenthal.Dinosaurs eating peopleDinosaurs in loveDinosaurs having a partyThey eat fruit and cucumberWhen singer-songwriter Tom Rosenthal and his daughter Fenn posted their original song, ''Dinosaurs in Love'', it became an instant classic. Just as Fenn''s dinosaurs fell in love, so did the world.Now readers of all ages can enjoy Fenn''s heartfelt, poignant lyrics again and again in this irresistible, sing-aloud picture book, featuring charming illustrations from Hannah Jacobs (animator of the viral music video).Check out the original song here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ujby_E-5obQPraise for the ''Dinosaurs in Love'' song:''[This song is] breaking everyone''s hearts.'' Buzzfeed News''A

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Book SynopsisA beautifully illustrated and reassuring picture book that explores the issue of the death of a pet in a simple but realistic way. The worries and questions surrounding this difficult experience are made accessible and approachable, helping them to deal with their grief and come to terms with their feelings. The superb A First Look At series consists of a number of reassuring picturebooks that give advice and promote interaction between children, parents, and teachers on a wide variety of personal, social and emotional issues. Notes for parents and teachers at the back of the book provide valuable advice for how to share this book with your child or class. Suitable for Key Stage 1 (ages 5-7), occasional prompts throughout the text give a chance to discuss the issue being raised. Written by trained psychotherapist, journalist and parent, and illustrated by an experienced children's book artist, this is a part of an acclaimed and successful, long-running series of picture-book non-fiction books for Early Years. Books in the series give advice and promote interaction between children, parents and teachers on a wide variety of personal, social and emotional issues. They are excellent tools for teachers to use during classroom discussions.

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Book Synopsis*WINNER of the 2023 AAAS/Subaru SB&F prize for Excellence in Science Books* 'This is the perfect book for talking to children about death' - The Guardian In the frost-covered forest of early spring, fox is on a mission to find food for her three cubs. As they grow, she teaches them how to survive in the wild. Until one day, fox dies. Her body goes back to earth and grass and air, nourishing the world around her and bringing the forest to life. Death is not just an end, it’s also a beginning. Fox: A Circle of Life Story answers the big scientific question: What happens when we die? Bringing together an evocative non-fiction narrative with breath-taking illustrations, this book will help parents and children to talk about life and death. It introduces the scientific concept that death leads to new life, and that this way of understanding the world is no less beautiful and awe-inspiring than traditional stories. Fox: A Circle of Life Story unites story and science to explain this big concept to children who have lost a pet or a loved one, or who simply are curious about death and what happens after we die. PRAISE FOR MOTH: AN EVOLUTION STORY 'A rare pleasure … a true story of adaptation and hope.' - Wall Street Journal 'Moth … is a stunning visual experience.' - Books for Keeps 'Moth … is another picture book with inbuilt growing room, an introduction to the concept of evolution in language both scientific and poetic, full of thrill and peril.' - Times Literary SupplementTrade ReviewThe story, warmly illustrated by Daniel Egneus, not only teaches the biology of death, decomposition, and renewal but may provide solace to children affected by death or dying. * Science Magazine, Finalist for the AAAS/Subaru SB&F Prize for Excellence in Science Books *Thomas’s direct language, with just the right degree of poetic resonance, pairs powerfully with Egnéus’s atmospheric images; this is the perfect book for talking to children about death. * The Guardian *Moth … is a stunning visual experience. The narrative is simple – the life and evolution of the Peppered Moth. It is not a fictional story but it shows that facts can also inspire the imagination. This is how information can really excite. Magical. * Books for Keeps on MOTH *A gorgeous blend of text and illustrations and a wonderfully successful introduction to nonfiction for younger readers * Booklist on MOTH *Moth … is another picture book with inbuilt growing room, an introduction to the concept of evolution in language both scientific and poetic, full of thrill and peril. … Thomas’s spare text and back matter elegantly develop the book’s twin themes of survival and hope. * Times Literary Supplement on MOTH *A rare pleasure … a true story of adaptation and hope. * Wall Street Journal on MOTH *

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Book Synopsis**'Luminous and unforgettable' - Emma Chichester Clark** **'Utterly pitch perfect' - Debi Gliori** **'Heartwarming and heartbreaking' - Caryl Hart** ------------------------------------------------- When a wise old tree takes a tiny sapling into his care, they both learn what it means to make memories and put down roots. He keeps her sheltered from storms and shaded from the scorching sun, and supported by his love, she grows and grows. There are so many things to see and to learn: how to appreciate the beauty of the world; how to be strong against the wind, but flexible enough to bend. Together, they make memories they'll hold on to forever. But when the old tree's leaves begin to fall, it's time for the sapling to grow up and take her own place in the world - and to learn how to hold on to the memories that mean so much. Filled with beautiful, luminous artwork, this heartfelt picture book is a story for everyone - both young and old.Trade ReviewThis book tackles an enormous subject in the simplest and most beautiful way. Every word is perfect, carefully chosen, and the gentle characters of the trees are luminous and unforgettable -- Emma Chichester Clark, award-winning illustrator of The Misadventures of FrederickUtterly pitch perfect and all the more stunning for being a debut. It’s breathtakingly, heartbreakingly beautiful and suffused with love and light -- Debi Gliori, bestselling creator of No Matter WhatWhat a beautiful book. The story manages to capture the unique hope and heartache of life's cycle and parental love with such gentle, wise words and spectacular seasonal scenes. It has the same classic feel as The Giving Tree * Alexandra Page *A moving, heartfelt and utterly beautiful picture book from an incredible new talent * A Word About Books *A haunting and beautiful story told from an unusual point of view ... The dreamlike art takes us through the seasons, and makes us think about life from a new perspective * Storytime Magazine *A truly beautiful book that shines in both its moving message and its gorgeous illustration style * Sloan Magazine *Invaluable for literacy teaching . . . poignant but heartening, demonstrating in the enduring power of love. This is a fabulous book for key stage 1 and 2; excellent for PHSE, supporting children through loss, change and bereavement. * The School Libraries Association *A breathtaking beauty of a book. * Edspire.co.uk *There are not many children’s books that leave you with goosebumps and a sense of tranquility. This remarkable book is an emotive read, perfect for adults and children alike. * Get Kids Booked *One of the most beautiful children’s books I’ve ever read . . . it will be a classic. * Little Bug Togs *A glorious picture book that deserves to be gifted, shared, realised and loved. * Bookwagon.co.uk *This tender book, full of light, love, nurturing and loss is at once heart-warming and truly heart-breaking. * Caryl Hart, author of Sonny Says *

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Book SynopsisA year after her brother Ally's death was ruled suicide by overdose, Andy starts university without her honorary twin, writing him letters as she strives to embrace her bisexuality and her Indigenous identity. When Andy discovers Ally's hidden poems, she tries to piece together these remaining fragments of her brother.

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

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Book SynopsisMy friend Mr Mornington has always lived next door to us. His favourite things are gardening and eating cherry cake and playing his saxophone. He's not the best rememberer, though.A little girl lives next door to Mr Mornington, who has played saxophone all over the world. These days, he's a bit tired of all that travelling, so now he plays it just for her. Together, they have a favourite song: one that conjures up memories of all their favourite things. But when Mr Mornington moves into a care home, his young friend wonders if he'll be able to remember her – or any of his favourite things at all... perhaps there's something she can do to help?This heartfelt and gently humorous picture book explores the subject of dementia in an original way. Drawing on themes of music therapy and the value of community and intergenerational friendship, it has a warm yet realistic ending that will help readers to process their own feelings of loss.Includes Mr Mornington's famous cherry cake recipe at the back of the book, so you can try one of his favourite things.

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Book SynopsisThis is a love letter to her daughters from Lisa in the form of a tender poem, illustrated by Catalina Echeverri. It is also a declaration of the strength of the steadfast love between a parent and child, and sums up an eternal message to all families facing the challenges of the loss of a loved one. A Welsh adaptation by Anwen Pierce. See also 9781802580945.

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Book SynopsisA funny, charming and uplifting picture book about loss, the circle of life, and what happens when a beloved pet bug dies. When his pet woodlouse won't wake up one day, Ross learns from his big sister all about definite, incredible deadness. But if Lord Jeffry isn't here anymore, where exactly is he? The siblings go to the library to see if they can find out, and although Ross misses his pet, he is comforted thinking of the adventures he might be having now. Eating pears in heaven . . . reincarnated into another animal . . . or perhaps all of his goodness has gone back into the earth to grow something beautiful. A gentle and funny introduction to loss, explaining some of the belief systems about what happens after death.

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Book SynopsisA touching story of unlikely friendship and the redemptive power of love. The last thing either Jana (13) or Louise (17) is looking for on this hot and boring summer is a friend of totally the wrong age. But then one day, they abandon their responsibilities and irritating families, and head off in a ‘borrowed’ car for a day by the lake. Their adventure is simple — beer, ice-cream, swimming, singing — but the friendship it forges between them turns out to be profound. When Jana experiences loss, it is only Louise’s tender and funny postcards that can haul her out of depression — right out of her bedroom window and off on another adventure. Written in a light, amusing style, and in the alternating voices of its two heroines, this is a touching story of the redemptive power of love. 'Wherever It Is Summer deftly explores the no-man's-land between childhood and adulthood and the power of female friendship, in language that is subtle and surprising.' - Deirdre Sullivan, author of Tangleweed and BrineTrade Review'Wherever It Is Summer deftly explores the no-man's-land between childhood and adulthood and the power of female friendship, in language that is subtle and surprising.' - Deirdre Sullivan, author of Needlework

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Book SynopsisÀdùkẹ́ lives with her grandparents in Ibadan and Grandma is her favourite person in the world. She loves when Grandma sings to her, and gives her treats from her stall. But one day, Àdùkẹ́ comes home from school and can’t find Grandma anywhere! Àdùkẹ́ doesn’t understand why Grandma can’t come back, but then her aunt Yímiká tells her a secret. Can she really see Grandma if she squints up at the moon?

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Book Synopsis''A gripping portrait of three very different teenagers and one divided northern town, Ansar''s moving, funny YA debut feels entirely true to life'' - GuardianWhen three teens are landed with a community service order after an incident involving a spray can and an inconveniently timed patrol car, their stories start to converge.Amir is the angry boy who won''t talk about the brother he lost - but he won''t let his name be forgotten either.Eman is the awkward girl whose favourite evenings are spent at home watching TV with her Nani.Kemi is the determined athlete who knows she deserves as good a shot as anyone else - if only she can get to the starting line.As they spend more time together they learn more about themselves, and in the process realise the true cause of Amir''s brother''s death...This is one summer they will never forget.Trade ReviewA gripping portrait of three very different teenagers and one divided northern town, Ansar's moving, funny YA debut feels entirely true to life -- Imogen Russell Williams * Guardian *

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Book Synopsis"A spooky, funny, magical and atmospheric adventure with a compelling hero you will adore." Jessica Townsend, New York Times bestselling author of NevermoorMaybe some ghosts enjoy walking through walls and being invisible - not me. I never asked to be a kid ghost.With no memory of the kid she was before she was taken by the Witches, Corpse is bound to haunt the rock-that-doesn't-exist for ever.Until she learns of a treasure, one that can reunite Corpse with her family and her name. She must set off for answers, on a journey across the stormy sea, battling magic, zombie-skeletons and monsters. But the Witches want the treasure too.And they'll do anything to get to it first.Welcome to Elston-Fright, a forgotten town where witches lurk, sea monsters roam and a girl is on the hunt for answers...Previously published in the UK as The Girl, the Ghost and the Lost Name

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Book SynopsisThe heart-rending and inspiring novel from the critically acclaimed author of NOT IF I SEE YOU FIRST.How can you have a future if you can't accept your past?Mel Hannigan doesn't have it easy. Mourning the death of her firework of a brother, facing the loss of three friendships that used to mean everything to her and struggling to deal with a condition that even her closest friends don't know about. To protect herself and everyone else, Mel tries to lock away her heart, to live quietly without pain but also without hope.Until the plight of an old friend, and meeting someone new, shows her that the risk is worth taking, that opening up to life and who you really are is what can make everything glorious And that maybe Mel can discover a tragic kind of wonderful of her very own.A beautiful, captivating story about living with mental illness, and loving even with a broken heart.Trade Review‘Enjoyable, clever and honest. Definitely a must for fans of The Perks of Being a Wallflower’ Kimi Wright, Waterstones ‘A heartfelt story, abut the realities of teenage life along with living with bipolar [disorder]’ Verity, 15, Lovereading4kids ‘An intimate and affecting portrait of mental illness helmed by an achingly real protagonist’ Kirkus PRAISE FOR NOT IF I SEE YOU FIRST: ‘Gorgeous, romantic, heart-rending’ Maximum Pop! ‘Not If I See You First is thoughtful and honest, with characters that made me laugh, cry, and surprised me at every turn. It’s a book I’ll recommend for years to come.’ Kody Keplinger, author of The Duff and co-founder of Disability in KidLit

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Book SynopsisIt''s hard to keep close a person everyone keeps telling you is gone.It''s been sixty-five days since the accident that ripped Juniper''s world apart. Life without her kind, beautiful, vibrant big sister Camilla is a colder, darker place.Until she discovers the letter. The letter Camie wrote, but never got to send. It''s mysteriously addressed to ''You'' and dated July 4th - the day of the accident. Desperate to learn the identity of Camie''s secret love, Juniper starts to investigate.But then she loses something herself. A card from her daily ritual, The Happiness Index: little notecards on which she rates the day. The Index has been holding Juniper together since Camie''s death - but without this card, there''s a hole. And this particular card contains Juniper''s own secret: a memory she can''t let anyone else find out.An unforgettable story of love, loss, mistakes and memories.

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Book SynopsisDuring the summer of her GCSEs Kite's world falls apart. Her best friend, Dawn, commits suicide after a long struggle with feeling under pressure to achieve. Kite's dad takes her to the Lake District, to give her time and space to grieve. In London Kite is a confident girl, at home in the noisy, bustling city, but in the countryside she feels vulnerable and disorientated. Kite senses Dawn's spirit around her and is consumed by powerful, confusing emotions - anger, guilt, sadness and frustration, all of which are locked inside. It's not until she meets local boy, Garth, that Kite begins to open up - talking to a stranger is easier somehow. Kite deeply misses her friend and would do anything to speak to Dawn just once more, to understand why . . . Otherwise how can she ever say goodbye?A potent story about grief, friendship, acceptance and making your heart whole again.Trade ReviewSita's debut novel, Artichoke Hearts, won the 2011 Waterstone’s Children’s Book Prize and has been longlisted for the Carnegie Medal. It has also been shortlisted for the Redbridge Children's Book Award, the Berkshire Book Award, the Romantic Novel Award (young adult category), Peters Book of the Year, the Fabulous Awards for Books and the Ealing Readers Award.

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Book SynopsisAn extraordinarily rich debut novel, set in India in 1947 at the time of Partition, touching on the importance of tolerance, love and family. The main character is Bilal, a boy determined to protect his dying father from the news of Partition - news that he knows will break his father''s heart. With great spirit and determination, and with the help of his good friends, Bilal persuades others to collude with him in this deception, even printing false pages of the local newspaper to hide the ravages of unrest from his father. All that Bilal wants is for his father to die in peace. But that means Bilal has a very complicated relationship with the truth...Trade Review‘Another memorable debut novel . . . Beautifully told this debut is set in 1940's India at the time of the Partition, with themes of tolerance that still resonate today' * The Bookseller *‘A challenging but extremely rewarding book dealing with big themes of truth, prejudice, and friendship, but also the simple love of a boy for his father. The Indian setting conjures up a society on the brink of change, rich in period detail and geographical beauty, and the characters are attractive and vividly drawn. A fascinating introduction to a vital moment in history. Though beware - the ending will make you cry' * Daily Mail *‘This is a refreshing first novel, simply and expertly told. A great debut' * Ink Pellet *‘Irfan Master has created a richly detailed portrait of India in 1947 and peopled it with a collection of well realised characters, each of them almost strong enough to merit a novel in their own right' * Guardian *

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Book SynopsisWinner of the Guardian children''s book prize 2015I''m the one who''s left behind. I''m the one to tell the tale. I knew them both... knew how they lived and how they died. Claire is Ella Grey''s best friend. She''s there when the whirlwind arrives on the scene: catapulted into a North East landscape of gutted shipyards; of high arched bridges and ancient collapsed mines. She witnesses a love so dramatic it is as if her best friend has been captured and taken from her. But the loss of her friend to the arms of Orpheus is nothing compared to the loss she feels when Ella is taken from the world. This is her story - as she bears witness to a love so complete; so sure, that not even death can prove final.Trade ReviewInfused with lyricism and with the fire and oddness of adolescence. Fresh, involving and lucid, it is a song in itself, and teens will find it fills them with poignant longing and joy. * The Daily Telegraph *A desperately romantic and deeply lyrical re-imagining of Orpheus and Eurydice... David Almond at his best. * * * * * * Bookbag *Passages of magic. * Financial Times *Beautifully written... poetic and allusive. * Irish Times *Spell-binding... impossible to resist... breathless, intoxicating prose. [Almond's] books seem to exist in their own otherworldly universe, outside all the trends in modern publishing, yet resolutely of the now. * The Glasgow Herald *Lyrical and dreamlike, this beautifully written story conjures up the insane intensity of first love and the effect it has on those caught up in its slipstream. Authentic teenage characters and attitudes, and Almond's control of emotion is superb. * Daily Mail *Almond's writing is superb. * Irish Daily Mail *A ravishing, ingenious novel told in Almond's own hypnotic northern lilt. * The Scotsman *A retelling of the myth of Orpheus... Almond's version is a revelation: his poetic prose seeps into your blood like word-venom until you can't imagine reading anything else (Children's Book of the Week) * The Times *a strong sense of mystery...lyrical... poetic...moves in a deliberate dreamlike way. A beautiful book that works on several levels A triumph. (Marcus Sedgwick) * The Guardian *A plangent tale of adolescent passion which re-packages the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. Almond injects it with lyrical beauty and life. * Books for Keeps *Intriguing adaptation of the tale of Orpheus, skilfully crafted and blended with modern teen life and a real flavour of Northumberland. Haunting. * Peters eGazette *Almond is an incredibly powerful storyteller. Poetic... dreamlike and lyrical. A devastatingly poignant novel. * Newcastle Chronicle *A desperately romantic and deeply lyrical re-imagining of the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. Full of the hums and thrums of emotions, landscape, music and poetry, it's David Almond at his best. * The Bookbag *Bliddy marvellous, as his Geordie protagonists would say. * The Independent on Sunday *A masterly retelling of the Orpheus myth. Lyrical prose is matched with equally beautiful passages. * Financial Times *Extraordinary. * Metro *Beautiful writing. * The Independent *Almond's lyrical prose fits the story perfectly. * The Mail on Sunday *A revelation. Poetic prose seeps into your blood like word venom until you can't imagine reading anything else. * The Times *Beautiful and bewitching. * Daily Express *The writing is just so magical... A stunning book which I will definitely read again. -- The Best Children's Books of 2014 * The Guardian *David Almond is a dazzling writer...exceptional... a breathtaking novel from a literary master. * Daily Express *A daring reworking of Orpheus amd Eurydice... a sense of transcendence... lush poetic prose. * Sunday Times *Haunting poetic novel. * Irish Times *If somebody asked me to describe A Song for Ella Grey in word, I would have to tell them that I couldn't...it would be impossible to write it off in just a word * The Guardian Online *It's a desperately romantic and deeply lyrical reimagining of the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. Full of the hums and thrums of emotions, landscape, music and poetry, it's David Almond at his best * The Bookbag *A revelation: his poetic prose seeps into your blood like word venom until you can't imagine reading anything else -- Alex O'Connell * The Times *Extraordinary -- Imogen Russell Williams * The Metro *Almond's lyrical prose fits the story perfectly * The Mail on Sunday *Beautiful writing...this is an author always on the side of the young, and as such offers a valuable counterweight to fashionable gloom in other teenage writing -- Nicholas Tucker * The Independent *I thought the author told the story extremely well and I would recommend this book to anyone in their teens. -- Charlie Barraclough (aged 14) * Western Gazette *Skillfully crafted and blended...accessible with engaging main characters and haunting memorable plot. * Peters eGazette *Intensely lyrical and oddly haunting...Almond's prose is a delight, each word so carefully chosen and melded to make a myth of contemporary adolescence * School Librarian *Capturing the intensity of first love and its power to overcome even death, Almond's prose is a delight, each word so carefully chosen and melded to make a myth of comtemporary adolescence...will surprise and enthrall teenage readers in equal measure * Scool Librarian *David Almond is a powerful storyteller and I was completely swept away by his latest poetic prose * Carousel *A challenging but riveting read -- Sophie Innes, Trinity Academy * Teen Titles *It is a challenging but riveting read * Teen Titles *Almond's poetic prose is especially apt for this tale -- one that moves in a deliberate, dreamlike way -- Marcus Sedgewick * The Guardian *This is the most beautifully written, haunting book for young adults that I have ever read * Bristol Magazine *This year I loved A Song for Ella Grey by David Almond ... a powerful, lyrical book that's absorbing and moving and haunting * The guardian.com *[David Almond] is becoming the Gabriel Garcia Marquez of Children's Fiction. -- Janni Howker * TES *This is absolutely beautiful and quite possibly my favourite Almond novel to date. The story of Orpheus and Eurydice is retold against a wild Northumbrian landscape: life, death, love and myths. Just wonderful. -- Fiona Noble * The Bookseller *Almond is an incredibly powerful storyteller; his poetic prose perfectly suits this type of tale, being dream-like and lyrical...a devastatingly poignant novel. -- Jayne Howarth * Manchester Evening News *

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Book SynopsisJustin A. Reynolds, author of Opposite of Always, returns with Forever Ends on Friday, another charming and powerful YA contemporary novel with a twist. What if you could bring your best friend back to life – but only for a short time?Jamal’s best friend, Q, doesn’t know that he died, and that he’s about to die . . . again. He doesn’t know that Jamal tried to save him. And that the reason they haven’t been friends for two years is because Jamal blames Q for the accident that killed his parents.But what if Jamal could have a second chance? A new technology allows Q to be reanimated for a few weeks before he dies . . . permanently. And Q’s mom is not about to let anyone ruin this miracle by telling Q about his impending death. So how can Jamal fix everything if he can’t tell Q the truth?Forever Ends on Friday weaves together loss, grief, friendship, and love to form a wholly unique homage to the bonds that bring people together for life - and beyond.Forever Ends on Friday is published in the US as Early DeparturesTrade ReviewThis what-if novel about loss celebrates life, asking the questions: what would you do with the rest of your life if you knew you were about to die? And would you want to know? Jamal loses someone but has the chance to bring him back, briefly. Forever Ends on Friday is also about coming to terms with other griefs, and not letting fear sabotage friendships and relationships. It considers the morality of truth-telling, self-sacrifice and forgiveness. Written with warmth and wisdom, it is a lighter read than its theme suggests, notwithstanding lumps in the throat. Despite the sci-fi element, it is full of everyday American teenage reality, bantering dialogue, family repartee (notably between Jamal and his pregnant sister, Whit), comic details, romantic connection and, above all, having fun. * Sunday Times, children's book of the week *A page-turning narrative with a cast of fully realized characters and realistic dialogue. The skillful use of flashbacks and social media content fully engages readers. Despite the seriousness of the story, humor and moments of pathos will elicit empathy and connection. This thoroughly satisfying novel of love, loss, and reconciliation is not to be missed. * Kirkus Reviews *This charming, wry novel packed with witty, crackling banter is propulsively readable. There are some big questions about choice, consequences, loyalty, and love in this novel, and Reynolds beautifully complements those heavy concerns with the sweet, funny, and genuine voice of his protagonist. * Booklist *Praise for Opposite of Always: Opposite of Always is as beautiful as it is funny, warm, and captivating. One of the best love stories I’ve ever read. Jack King is the hero we’ve been waiting for. -- Angie Thomas, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Hate U GiveI loved the humour, brightening even the darkest moments but without spoiling them, and the warmth in the relationships.Jamal’s voice is just great. The premise is so interesting and plays out believably, leaving the reader with lots to ponder over: Do you think it is a good idea to have a second chance to say goodbye? * Teen Librarian *Forever Ends On Friday is a really enjoyable contemporary, with a hint of sci-fi that I really enjoyed, that will tug at your heartstrings and remind you what is truly important in life. You’ll treasure your friends and loved ones after this. I can’t recommend this book enough. * Jth Books *Forever Ends On Friday is a real page-turner: the writing is pacey, the plot is unpredictable and Jamal’s underlying humour seams together tragedy, connection and forgiveness in one enthralling story. The point of view of the narration is so detailed that it almost feels we are allowed into a private, personal space. Family and friendship are key themes in the book; all the relationships with the secondary characters are given the spotlight, none of them overshadows the others and they all contribute to the development of the plot. In Reynold’s story, we hurt with all the characters, we grieve with them and weheal with them. Forever Ends On Friday is a book that I feel needs to be read in a quiet, private space as there is a lot to process; I think would be a great addition to a KS4 library * Just Imagine Story Centre *The depiction of the main two boys, Quincy and Jamal, and their friendship is very cleverly constructed. The friendship is flawed and deeply human, it’s only when Jamal knows that time is short that he learns how to put others first. It really makes you consider what it is to be human and supporting others – whether they be friends, parents or carers, partners, co-workers, etc. I like that the story is told from the perspective of both boys. It brings the reader fully into the story and makes them consider things from each of the viewpoints – both the grieving friend and the boy with only a short time to live. The first-person perspective also brings other characters fully to life, with vivid descriptions, sometimes almost painfully vivid. The grief felt by Jamal at the death of his parents, then of his best friend can be difficult to read, but also very relatable for anyone who has gone through that loss. The depiction of Quincy’s mother and her journey through grief is also realistically presented and I found myself crying at several points in the book because of her raw emotion. I would recommend this for both girls and boys aged 14 plus. Other topics include love, grief, loss, comedy, relationships, family and what it means to live a full life. I loved the concept of this story and it would create lots of discussion points for reading groups or classroom discussions. It really makes you think about the choices we make in life and if we truly live our lives to the fullest. * Armadillo magazine *

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Book SynopsisHannah MacLaren has grown up between two worlds: scraping by happily with her single, working mum and avoiding the Maryland upper crust in the next town over, where her wealthy cousin and best friend Sophie lives. The plan is to get out: Hannah from paycheck-to-paycheck life, and Sophie from the cosseted world she doesn't fit into. But just before junior year begins, something goes horribly wrong. Sophie overdoses at a party, leaving behind a shocked community and bereft best friends. As the haze of grief begins to clear, Hannah teams up with Sophie’s other best friend, Gabi, to find out what happened that fateful night. Someone gave Sophie oxycodone. Someone knew what was going on. And Hannah will not stop until she has uncovered the truth.Trade ReviewThis is more than a love story. When We Collided carefully yet effortlessly puts mental illness in conversation with the beauty and struggle of adolescence. It is a book I wish I could have written, but am so much better for having read * Julie Murphy, bestselling author of Dumplin’, on WHEN WE COLLIDED *

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Book SynopsisReal, compulsive and intense: Cat Clarke is the queen of emotional suspense. For fans of Paula Hawkins, Gillian Flynn, Megan Abbott and Jandy Nelson.Jem Halliday is in love with her gay best friend. Not exactly ideal, but she's learning to live with it. Then the unspeakable happens. Kai is outed online ... and he kills himself. Jem knows nothing she can say or do will bring him back. But she wants to know who was responsible. And she wants to take them down. A searing story of love, revenge and betrayal from a bestselling author.Trade ReviewAn emotional page-turner * Teen Now magazine *Perfect and heart breaking at the same time ... A brilliant read * Overflowing Library *Most definitely Cat Clarke's best novel yet * Serendipity Reviews *An utterly gripping tale and rips into those dark places inside us all where revenge blooms and I defy you not to gasp and be jolted out of your seat as you read it * Sister Spooky *Undone is what contemporary YA should be: gritty, thought-provoking and emotionally involving. Brilliant. * So Many Books, So Little Time *We laughed and we cried, but MAN were we not expecting the explosive conclusion * Sugarscape *A powerful novel, but Clarke uses enough humour to make sure that it's never relentlessly bleak * Bookbag *A searing story of love, revenge and betrayal * U magazine *Simply put, Undone is astounding ... It's just brilliant * Writing from the Tub *Incredible - pure and simple * Writing from the Tub on Cat Clarke *Undoubtedly one of the most exciting and talented YA writers in Britain * Library Mice on Cat Clarke *I wholly, unabashedly and completely recommend this book * Inis Magazine on Cat Clarke *Clarke...succeeds brilliantly, thanks to the reality of the characters and the depth of the emotion * The Scotsman on Cat Clarke *Moving, thought provoking and utterly gripping from start to finish * Mizz on Cat Clarke *Clarke excels at genuine page-turners and I read this in one greedy sitting * The Bookseller on Cat Clarke *

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Book SynopsisShortlisted for the Waterstones Children's Book Prize 2018 Nominated for the CILIP Carnegie Medal 2018 Longlisted for the Branford Boase Award 2018 In three years I will be able to vote and I will still have less power than I did at the moment that I saw that email, which was such a tiny thing but look what happened. Fifteen-year-old Alena never really knew her political activist mother, who died when she was a baby. She has grown up with her older half-brother Danny and his boyfriend Nick in the east end of London. Now the area is threatened by a bomber who has been leaving explosive devices in supermarkets. It is only a matter of time before a bomb goes off. Against this increasingly fearful backdrop, Alena seeks to discover more about her past, while Danny takes a job working for a controversial politician. As her family life implodes, and the threat to Londoners mounts, Alena starts getting into trouble. Then she does something truly rebellious. A searing, heartbreaking coming-of-age tale for fans of Lisa Williamson, Jenny Downham and Sarah Crossan.Trade Review"A thought-provoking, richly layered YA novel about politics, love, grief and coming of age." -- Imogen Russell Williams * Guardian *"Wonderfully individual and heartbreakingly real" -- starred review * Kirkus *"A touching, truthful depiction of an unconventional family life... written before London’s current summer of discontent but captures the effect of a constant climate of unease on young people and the permanently anxious adults who care for them." -- Geraldine Brennan * Observer *"A clever, thoughtful novel with a wonderfully realistic main character" -- Sarah Webb * Irish Independent *"It’s refreshing to see a contemporary YA novel that focuses so much on family and politics and allows its heroine to escape the narrative without a boyfriend in tow" -- Claire Hennessy * Irish Times *"A sparky and timely coming-of-age tale about politics, activism & morality" * Katherine Woodfine *"Family tensions and uncertainty are contrasted against the current political situation in this excellent novel" -- Marilyn Brocklehurst * Guardian, The Best New Children's Books supplement *"I loved it, so much so that as soon as I finished I started reading it again. Completely brilliant" -- Keren David, author of Salvage"I couldn’t put Troublemakers down. It's a real page-turner, with utterly believable characters who are all trying to do their best. Barter is a fresh, exciting new voice, and I can’t wait to see what she does next." -- Susin Nielsen"I think it's really brilliant and I absolutely loved it – the voice is terrific. I hope it's loved as much as Jenny Downham's Unbecoming." -- Aoife Walsh, author of Too Close To Home"One of the most woke YA novels EVER and will quickly make you question your own political knowledge and outspokenness" * Maximum Pop! Books *"Politics and the personal combine in a thoughtful, well-told and moving story" -- Andrea Reece * Lovereading4Kids *

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Book SynopsisMyrddin doesn''t want to go out, without his best friend Mot. Join Myrddin as he learns how to be adventurous and how to say goodbye. A story about how it is to feel love and the loss of a friend, and how to find a reason for going out on your own again.

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Book SynopsisSequel to the award-winning neurodivergent, cli-fi adventure mystery 'Moojag and the Auticode Secret'. ----------------------------------- When Nema returns to Gajoomdom she discovers three forgetful grannies who've totally lost track of time. If she and Moojag can't help them remember, everyone's memories are in danger. But turns out not everyone is who they thought they were. Who will they rescue? Will they rescue them in time? -------------------------------------- The Lost Memories, inspired by the author's gran and living with dementia and disability during the pandemic, shows us the impact of loss and the power of memory. A multi-generational adventure, recommended for readers nine years and over. You'll whizz through this one, like the wrinkly new characters who star in it!Trade Review"Fantastical fun with a deep message about the value of human memories. I loved that the three grannies took centre stage, with so much dynamism, humour and wisdom whilst taking memory loss head on. Go grannies!" PATIENCE AGBABI - Award-winning poet and author, THE LEAP CYCLE.----------------------------'"A really great book ...a captivating adventure. The world is really dense with really fun and whimsical pieces of technology, but still there is a real sense of peril that runs through the story. I have never been so scared of a marshmallow chamber! I love how it pushes back on the idea of older people being useless, not by erasing the things they may find difficult, but by highlighting their strengths ...the things they still remember end up being as important as the things they have forgotten." ALEX FALASE-KOYA - Award-winning author, MARV / BREAKFAST CLUB ADVENTURES----------------------------"A thrilling adventure with a memorable cast of characters!" BEN DAVIS - Award-winning author, LENNY LEMMON----------------------------'"An imaginative futuristic adventure that draws you in and keeps you hooked. But it's the characters who win your heart...vivid, vibrant, compelling, laugh out loud..." READERS' FAVORITE - 5 Star review.----------------------------'"A brilliant story... Positive autism representation with loads of fantastic ideas that take you to another world!" SEAN FLETCHER - Journalist / TV presenter.----------------------------'"A fantastic adventure with an important message and authentic and exciting neurodivergent characters. I loved it!" DANIEL AUBREY - Author, DARK ISLAND

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Book SynopsisAnnie’s family work hard to survive on their Ohio farm. Annie’s happiest when hunting game with her pa, and she doesn’t care one bit that it’s not the kind of thing girls are meant to do. When tragedy strikes, the family is thrown into deepest poverty. Until one day, Annie dares to pick up Pa’s old rifle, and find a way to feed her starving family. As the family’s fortunes worsen, Annie is sent away to work, and life becomes an ever greater struggle. Yet Annie has the courage and pluck to survive – and her brilliance with a rifle starts to gain her more than just turkeys for the pot. Can Annie’s amazing skills take her all the way to fame and fortune? An inspiring novel based on the incredible life of sharpshooting star Annie Oakley.Trade Review"A terrific voice and a brilliant tale. One of those stories that are so difficult to put down" -- Phil Earle"A gritty yet charming tale of Annie Oakley’s fight to rise above the hardship life throws at her. Little Sure Shot is a fascinating account of a strong and determined girl" -- Lesley Parr"Matt Ralphs has hit the bullseye with this big-hearted story of grit and determination from the American West" -- Cat Weldon"A beautifully crafted account of the troubled early years of Annie Oakley, Little Sure Shot zips along, keeping the history tight to the truth and the characters close to the reader. It's gripping and tender, wrapping heartbreaking themes in the heart-soaring joy that is success against the odds" -- Rachel Delahaye"An inspiring rags-to-riches story" * The Bookseller *

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