Children’s / Teenage personal and social topics: Divorce, separation, family break-up

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Book SynopsisJacqueline Wilson (Author) Jacqueline Wilson wrote her first novel when she was nine years old, and she has been writing ever since. She is now one of Britain's bestselling and most beloved children's authors. She has written over 100 books and is the creator of characters such as Tracy Beaker and Hetty Feather. More than forty million copies of her books have been sold.As well as winning many awards for her books, including the Children's Book of the Year, Jacqueline is a former Children's Laureate, and in 2008 she was appointed a Dame.Jacqueline is also a great reader, and has amassed over 20,000 books, along with her famous collection of silver rings.Find out more about Jacqueline and her books at www.jacquelinewilson.co.ukNick Sharratt (Illustrator) Nick Sharratt has written and illustrated many books for children including Shark in the Park, You Choose and Pants. He has won numerous awardTrade ReviewFunny and very moving -- Josie Lawrence * Daily Express *An unsentimental and truthful book that is even better for a strong sense of mischief * Independent on Sunday *The chatty style draws young readers straight into the story, and the constant stream of corny jokes masks, but does not conceal, the deeper issues * Daily Telegraph *This is an hilarious and at the same time exceptionally emotional story * Scribbler *

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Book SynopsisBy award-winning Waterstones Children's Laureate Joseph Coelho, a poetic picture book about family separation and mental health. Once a month, Dad takes his son to the barbers, come rain or shine. But when Dad disappears, this little boy's hair grows big, ginormous, out of control – and so do his feelings. A touching and melodic story of family separation from a child's perspective from the author/illustrator duo who brought us the Amnesty International recommended picture book Luna Loves Library Day.Trade Review"A touching story about family interactions – and hair! Poet Joe Coelho tells the story of a moment of sadness in a child's life with great sensitivity and a suitably hopefuly ending." * LoveReading4Kids, Pick of the Month November 2019 *"A lyrical, emotional look at the effect of separation, paired with Lumbers’ richly textured art." -- Fiona Noble * The Bookseller *

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Book SynopsisSusie Day grew up by the seaside in Penarth, Wales, with a lisp and a really unfortunate choice of first name.Between books, she works as a copywriter in Birmingham, crochets ridiculous jumpers and inhales tea.Susie now lives in Coventry, England with her partner and a black cat named Pantalaimon.

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Book SynopsisThe classic award winning story from Anne Fine. Kitty Killin is not just a brilliant story-teller, but also the World''s Great Expert when it comes to mothers having new and unwelcome boyfriends. So it''s no surprise that she''s the one chosen to sort out classmate Helly, who''s gone into meltdown. Kitty decides to share her story about old Goggle-eyes - possibly one of the worst episodes in her life...Trade ReviewGoggle-Eyes is a winner: witty, sensitive and warm-hearted - a lovely book * Guardian *This author is too much of a treasure to be reserved for children alone * Independent *

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Book Synopsis#1 New York Times bestselling author of Everything, Everything and The Sun is Also a Star Nicola Yoon is back with a new and utterly unique romance.''An endearing, affecting portrayal of the journey of love. Everything Yoon touches turns to gold... this cinematic supernatural romance will be no exception'' Booklist Evie is disillusioned about love ever since her dad left her mum for another woman - she''s even throwing out her beloved romance novel collection.When she''s given a copy of a book called Instructions for Dancing, and follows a note inside to a dilapidated dance studio, she discovers she has a strange and unwelcome gift. When a couple kisses in front of her, she can see their whole relationship play out - from the moment they first catch each other''s eye to the last bitter moments of their break-up.For Evie, it confirms everything she thinks she knows about love - that it doesn''t last.But at thTrade ReviewAn endearing, affecting portrayal of the journey of love. Everything Yoon touches turns to gold... this cinematic supernatural romance will be no exception * Booklist *A remarkable, irresistible love story that will linger long after the reader turns the final page * Kirkus *A story of love's unpredictability and the importance of perspective that unfolds with ease and heart * Publisher's Weekly *

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Book SynopsisJacqueline Wilson (Author) Jacqueline Wilson wrote her first novel when she was nine years old, and she has been writing ever since. She is now one of Britain's bestselling and most beloved children's authors. She has written over 100 books and is the creator of characters such as Tracy Beaker and Hetty Feather. More than forty million copies of her books have been sold.As well as winning many awards for her books, including the Children's Book of the Year, Jacqueline is a former Children's Laureate, and in 2008 she was appointed a Dame.Jacqueline is also a great reader, and has amassed over 20,000 books, along with her famous collection of silver rings.Find out more about Jacqueline and her books at www.jacquelinewilson.co.ukNick Sharratt (Illustrator) Nick Sharratt has written and illustrated many books for children including Shark in the Park, You Choose and Pants. He has won numerous awardTrade ReviewFunny and entertaining . . . I'd definitely recommend this book and give it 5 out of 5 stars * TBK *This hilarious and heartbreaking new story from the bestselling, award-winning Jacqueline Wilson follows her most popular character through ups and downs, laughs and tears. Fifteen years on from her first appearance on the page, Tracy Beaker is as vibrant and entertaining as ever * www.bettybookmark.co.uk *A heartwarming story of one of the UK's most favoured children's characters * Headteacher Update *

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Book SynopsisThis helpful guide will help children to understand more about divorce and why couples split up. Understand how to deal with arguments and stress, or find out how to give advice and support to someone else whose parents might be separating.Topics covered will include step-families; how to deal with arguments; having two homes; sibling issues; emotions and feelings; asking for help.Other titles in The Kids'' Guide series:Anti-BullyingAnti-RacismDealing with AnxietyDealing with DeathUnderstanding Autism

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Book SynopsisFrom the bestselling and award-winning A.M. Howell, author of The Garden of Lost Secrets and The House of One Hundred Clocks, comes a brand-new thrilling historical mystery of stolen treasure, friendship and deep courage set in the immediate aftermath of the Second World War. February 1948. Ruth has been whisked off to the lonely Rook Farm to investigate the discovery of long-buried treasure with her mother. But at the farmhouse, she finds secrets lurk around every corner. Joe, the farmer's son, is hiding something about the treasure, while land girl Audrey watches their every move. But before Ruth can find out more, the treasure is stolen... With a storm coming, Ruth must race to uncover the secrets of the treasure keepers before all of their lives are changed forever. Praise for A.M. HowellWINNER OF THE MAL PEET CHILDREN'S AWARDWINNER OF THE EAST ANGLIAN BOOK OF THE YEARA SUNDAY TIMES CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE WEEKHowell is a hypnotically readable writer, who keeps the pulse racingTrade ReviewThe Secret Of The Treasure Keepers is a thrilling archaeological dig of a mystery novel, with each new clue as precious and exciting as buried gold. A.M. Howell writes so evocatively that I could practically smell the trowelled earth! Truly superb stuff. * Darren Simpson, author of Scavengers *The mysteries swirl thick and fast in this wonderfully atmospheric tale by the brilliant A.M. Howell. Set in the post-war Fens, the story - about buried treasure and family secrets - grips right from the start. I loved it! * Judith Eagle, author of The Secret Starling *Another superb historical novel by A.M. Howell * The Daily Telegraph *With themes of family secrets, buried treasure, national hardship, resilience, women's rights and archaeological integrity at its beating heart, plus all the addictive the excitement of literally digging into the past to enjoy, this is top class reading for all middle-graders. * Lancashire Evening Post *A mystery of stolen treasure and courage set in the aftermath of the Second World War. * The i *

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Book SynopsisRory loves his dad, but he also really likes his step-dad, Tony. He has weekends with Dad in the park and makes imaginary dens with Tony, so when Father's Day comes, who should he make his card for at school? Spotting his frustration, Tony spends his 'rainy-day pennies' to take Rory somewhere new - an ART GALLERY, full of wonders. As they pause to reflect in a huge room of rectangles, Rory sees his conflicting feelings glistening back at him in many powerful colours. Afterwards, a 'chance' encounter with Dad, under a red sky, helps Rory realise that he doesn't have to feel torn at all. PRAISE "...one of the most realistic and honest portrayals... of the conflicting emotions experienced by children who have parents and stepparents. Perfect for children in KS1 and brilliant for children to be able to see their own and others' realities reflected." - The Literacy TreeTrade Review"An honest and compassionate story." - The Rocketship Bookshop; "Another winner...should be in every Primary School in my opinion." - Bev Humphrey, Literacy & Digital Media Consultant; “A warm and gentle story that celebrates blended families. The art Rory sees in the gallery is an effective representation of his conflicting feelings as he settles into a new way of life, but the overriding feeling at the end of the book is love." - Clare Helen Welsh; "Essential reading for children, whether they are living in a blended family or not." - The Kids Books Curator; “Family dynamics are constantly changing and these need to be reflected in the stories we read. It is worth adding this book to libraries, schools and homes!" - My Shelves Are Full Blog; “An essential read about a child who has both a dad and a step dad. It is a gentle exploration of blended families and the attached emotions. A truly beautiful read!” - @father_reader_teacher on Instagram

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Book SynopsisCarter Jones is astonished early one morning when he finds a real English butler, bowler hat and all, on the doorstep. He announces he is here to stay to help the Jones family, which is a little bit broken. In addition to figuring out middle school, Carter has to adjust to the unwelcome presence of this new know-it-all adult in his life and navigate the butler's notions of decorum and love of cricket. And ultimately, when his burden of grief and anger from the past can no longer be ignored, Carter learns that a burden becomes lighter when it is shared. Sparkling with humour, this insightful and compassionate story is the latest from the award-winning author of Orbiting Jupiter.Trade Review"Schmidt effortlessly fuses humor and tragedy" * New York Times Book Review *"Wonderfully impressive and layered" -- starred review * Kirkus *"A rich and nuanced middle grade novel that will appeal to readers who feel a little on the outskirts" -- starred review * School Library Journal *"His engaging narrative leads readers through a broad range of emotions in this beautifully written, often amusing, and ultimately moving novel" -- starred review * Booklist *"Schmidt fuses pathos and humor in this adroitly layered novel" -- starred review * Publishers Weekly *"Deft use of comedic scenes and Schmidt’s trademark use of narrator-provided snark give the story the levity it needs to counteract the surprising number of tears readers are likely to shed. [Written] with remarkable finesse" -- starred review * Horn Book *"Suffused with the same warmth, compassion and originality of the author’s stunning debut, Orbiting Jupiter, this funny, moving middle grade novel is a true treasure with broad appeal and rich rewards." -- Joanne Owen * LoveReading4Kids *"Gary D. Schmidt has written a tender story of masculinity and companionship... Beautifully paced the book demonstrates to us all the importance of making good decisions, and of remembering who we are and who we love." -- Matthew Martin * Books for Keeps *

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Book SynopsisAn enchanting story about fairies, baking, and the magic of blended families from TV star and influencer Kate FerdinandIn a magical forest full of busy birds and buzzy bugs, there stands a giant oak tree. This is where the fairy families live!Ash and Willow live in the Family Tree with their dad. They love baking and can''t wait to enter the Busy Beetle Bake-Off, but everything changes when their dad introduces them to a new fairy, Hazel. With their bakes going badly, and a new member of the family to get used to, will Ash and Willow manage to find a way to win the contest? This is Kate Ferdinand''s first picture book for children - a heartwarming story full of magic, friendship and baking that will help children of blended families feel seen, heard and appreciated.

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Book SynopsisWhen your parents tell you that they are getting divorced, you might have lots of big feelings - like anger, fear and sadness - and lots of questions too. This journal is packed full of activities that will help you work through these feelings and get your thoughts and questions out into the open.This journal from parenting expert Sue Atkins gives children aged 7+ a safe place to express their feelings about divorce and the resulting changes, so that they can start to understand them. Full of creative activities to help them process this life-changing event, it provides children with a source of strength and comfort through this challenging time, as well as giving them a way of sharing how they are feeling with a trusted adult.Trade ReviewWhen a family hits a storm, parents can be so keen to want their kids to be ok that they can miss listening to their children and validating their experience. This book is an excellent tool for children and parents to work through difficult feelings and thoughts, bringing understanding at such a challenging time. Often, children can have a deep seated belief that it is their fault; this journal is an excellent tool to address these issues and help children build a coherent narrative of their own story. -- Tanya Gordon, Psychotherapeutic CounsellorSue has created a unique journal for children who experience divorce. It is important that children are able to express their feelings during this difficult time for the whole family. In the divorce journal for kids, children can write down their thoughts and feelings and share this with their parents. I will 100% share this bespoke journal with parents and schools. -- Laura Henry-Allain MBE, Award winning International speaker, writer (Creator of the JoJo and Gran Gran characters) and consultantAs a parent advisor, I recommend Sue Atkins' 'Divorce Journal' to families on a regular basis. It's the only resource I have found that deals with the emotional and practical aspects of a divorced/fragmented family with the child at the centre. This carefully constructed journal really does cover every aspect - it's extremely useful for both parents and for therapists working with children. I've had such positive feedback from clients and fellow counsellors. It's easy to use, very child friendly and has great results. -- Jo Fitzgerald Mental Health First Aid Trainer & Founder of Tiny Sponges & Primary2SecondaryIt provides a realistic way to help - an opportunity for children to reflect on their feelings, talk to their parents and feel valued. -- Georgina Durrant, founder of The SEN Resources Blog and author of 100 Ways Your Child Can Learn Through PlayA perfect resource to empower children to manage their feelings and emotions through a divorce, so they are able to 'be' with their experience more, process what's happening better and a resource from which, more understanding conversations can happen with parents. -- Tosh Brittan, Founder of Divorce GoddessAn empowering much needed journal for children packed full of helpful tools to guide them on their own journey through their parents divorce. A must have support tool for your kids. -- Sara Davison, The Divorce Coach

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Book SynopsisBig Cat Phonics for Little Wandle Letters and Sounds Revised has been developed in collaboration with Wandle Learning Trust and Little Sutton Primary School. It comprises classroom resources to support the SSP programme and a range of phonic readers that together provide a consistent and highly effective approach to teaching phonics.Have you ever lost a sock? Maybe a sock fairy took it! Gock has stolen one of Cam''s socks, and she needs to find it. Will she be able to outsmart this mischievous fairy before she gets collected by her mum?

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Book SynopsisElla Black seems to live the life most other seventeen-year-olds would kill for . . . Until one day, telling her nothing, her parents whisk her off to Rio de Janeiro. Determined to find out why, Ella takes her chance and searches through their things.And realises her life has been a lie.Her mother and father aren''t hers at all. Unable to comprehend the truth, Ella runs away, to the one place they''ll never think to look - the favelas.But there she learns a terrible secret - the truth about her real parents and their past. And the truth about a mother, desperate for a daughter taken from her seventeen years ago . . .Trade ReviewBarr is superb at evoking the heightened emotions of adolescence: the exhilarating thrill of first love, the intensity of fear and rage at adults' deception and the need to discover one's own identity. With disturbing undertones, vivid characters and authentic dialogue, this is a worthy successor to her wonderful debut, The One Memory of Flora Banks * Daily Mail *Evoking Ella's intoxicating new surroundings while skewering the facile assumptions of "poverty tourism", Barr's second YA novel is a fast-paced, dramatic search for answers to the secrets of the self * Guardian *Colourful setting and pacy plot. If you like dark fiction you'll devour it * Heat *Emily Barr already proved she could hit all the right teen-fiction notes in last year's The One Memory of Flora Banks. This taps the same vein. Ella's parents are doting to the point of smothering but they don't know about the dark and twisty part of her that threatens to destroy everything * i *

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Book SynopsisSam likes being a twin. He likes having two mums. He likes cheese sandwiches and his dog and drawing comics with his friend Pea. He does not like humus - or heights . . .His twin sister Sammie likes being a twin too. She knows that she''s perfect best friend material for somebody - the girls in her class just haven''t realised yet. And she knows that she''s the best Sam - Sam A.Both Sam and Sammie - and everybody in their lives seems to be keeping secrets - which ones will come out?

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Book SynopsisAmber, Geena and Jazz have been through some tough times. Think Bollywood levels of tragedy and you're getting close.Now, they've finally got everything they could ever want. Well, almost everything. They're smart, funny and popular and they've got all the latest designer labels. The one accessory they don't need is their interfering Auntie-ji cramping their style. But nothing can stop the Bindi Babes can it?

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Book SynopsisLauren, Jack, Ruby and Billy live by the seaside with their mum and dad. But their parents are always arguing, and then their dad moves out. Lauren and Jack decide they have to get them together again. And so begins Operation Eiffel Tower . . . in which the four children try to raise money to give their mum and dad a treat in an attempt to make them happier. First they want to send their parents to Paris, but quickly realise they can never afford that, so instead they set up a dinner for two under the Eiffel Tower in the local crazy golf attraction. But will it get their parents talking again?A funny and very moving story that tackles important issues with a light touch.Trade ReviewPerfect for Jacqueline Wilson fans * The Bookseller *I was inspired to read Elen Caldecott's Operation Eiffel Tower when I saw her talk about it at the Edinburgh book festival and was as entranced as all the eight-to-twelves . . . some scenes are funny (the children's attempted forgery is hilarious); others are poignant, particularly their visit to a B&B when they can't think what to say to their dad -- Julia Donaldson * Guardian online *Warm, funny and bittersweet * Teach Primary *

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Book SynopsisBook Band: Purple (Ideal for ages 6+)A heart-warming family story, ideal for children practising their reading at home or in school.Little Bear lives with Daddy Bear at weekends, and usually they play games like Monster Chase and Daddy-is-a-Big-Climbing-Frame. But today, all Daddy Bear is doing is tap-tap-tapping on his keyboard. Waiting is so boring! Can Little Bear convince him to play? This charming story from Dawn McNiff is perfect for Key Stage 1 (KS1) children who are learning to read by themselves. It features fun illustrations from Andy Rowland and explores a topic many young children will relate to._______________Bloomsbury Young Readers are the perfect way to get children reading, with book-banded stories by brilliant authors like Julia Donaldson. The series is ideal for both home and school, with gorgeous colour illustrations, tips for parents, and fun activity ideas. Online guided reading and teaching notes, written by the CentreTrade ReviewPRAISE FOR BLOOMSBURY YOUNG READERS Written by favourite authors, these are well worth collecting and are just the thing for children ready for reading. -- Andrea Reece * Lovereading4kids *PRAISE FOR BLOOMSBURY YOUNG READERS My six-year-old, THE BOSS has just found her reading rhythm... THE BOSS got her hands on Bloomsbury Young Readers and suddenly, her reading took off. These are proper stories that are a manageable step up from picture books, while keeping all the colour and fun. -- Leisa Stewart-Sharpe * My Book Corner *Let’s Play, Daddy Bear! is a warm-hearted story with equally warm illustrations of a young bear that spends weekends at her father’s home where they play fun games like Monster Chase and Daddy-is-a-Big-Climbing Frame. -- Jill R Bennett * Red Reading Hub *

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Book Synopsis'It's good that I've found this secret place . . . No one can get to to me up there. It's totally safe.'In real life, Jake is never safe. He lives in constant fear of his mother's violent boyfriend. But in his imaginary tower he can dream up his own father - the stranger who gave him a cuddle and a fluffy duck the day he was born and went away for ever. Jake doesn't believe dreams ever come true. But sometimes they do - in strange and surprising ways.Shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal, Jake's Tower by Elizabeth Laird is a powerful and moving novel that spotlights the issue of domestic abuse.

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Book SynopsisMoffles are tiny, fluffy creatures, who carry the colours of their emotions in their fur, for all the world to read like a story book. Billy Moffle is very young but already he has become so scared and hurt that he has turned blue and grey. If he just keeps everything straight and tidy, maybe he won't feel so frightened.

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Book SynopsisA powerful and poetic novel from the multi-award-winning author of Tangleweed and Brine Ces longs to be a tattoo artist and embroider skin with beautiful images. But for now she’s just trying to reach adulthood without falling apart. Powerful, poetic and disturbing, Needlework is a girl’s meditation on her efforts to maintain her bodily and spiritual integrity in the face of abuse, violation and neglect. ‘Reading Needlework is similar to getting your first tattoo – it’s searing, often painful, but it is an experience you’ll never forget.’ – Louise O’Neill, author of The Surface Breaks and Asking For It ‘Needlework is a powerful novel that deserves to be read.’ – Sarah Crossan, author of One and We Come Apart ‘I loved Deirdre Sullivan’s Needlework, a novel that is just as sharp and precise as its title suggests.’ – Doireann Ní Ghríofa, poet ‘A modern, broken fairy tale that gets under your skin.’ – Tara Flynn, author and comedianTrade ReviewA word of advice: do not read this book after 2 am as you might start crying – although it’s definitely worth it. * The Guardian *The details of the skill, knowledge and painstaking preparation required are as alluring as the descriptions of delicate, powerful and enduring images, while the idea of blemishing the skin in order to create beauty is a metaphor for Ces’s path through life. * The Observer *This is a powerful novel that haunts you long after you have read the final page. -- Caroline Busher * The Irish Times *My number one most adored for this year has to be Deirdre Sullivan’s Needlework. -- Jacq Murphy * The Irish Times *So beautiful that you won’t want to put it down, even as your heart is breaking for Ces. -- Kim Hood * The Irish Times *A brave, necessary book that burned into my heart. -- Sarah Webb * The Irish Times *Beautiful and poetic. -- Catherine Doyle * The Irish Times *Material handled with all the delicacy of touch we would expect from the most talented of tattooists. -- Robert Dunbar * The Irish Times *

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Book Synopsis'We are moving to a new home, where the lakes freeze in winter. I am visiting my Grandma to say goodbye.' The little girl in this story loves visiting her Grandma's sewing studio and watching her make things, and is worried about leaving Grandma behind and not being able to see her. Grandma re-assures her and is making her a warm coat which will envelop her like a big hug. The message of love despite separation is comforting for all those grandchildren and grandparents who are now in self-isolation or social distancing due to the corona virus. Soothes anxiety caused by lock down and school closure and shows ways communication can still take place. Free resources are on publisher website. NOMINATED FOR THE 2021 KATE GREENAWAY AWARD.Trade Review'This simply illustrated picturebook is about separation from a beloved grandmother who loves to sew. It is a story of emigration, but resonates for anyone currently apart from loved ones.' SUNDAY TIMES CULTURE MAGAZINE;'I must admit this book made me tear up... The simple, lyrically written story is perfect for sharing with children who can't see their grandparents at the moment.' IRISH INDEPENDENT;'The Longest Strongest Thread tells the story of a little girl who is moving with her parents to a new country and is worried about leaving her grandmother behind. ‘Grandma can’t walk all the way to my new home, so I am making her an aeroplane she can fly with’ THE OLDIE;‘The Longest Strongest Thread by Inbal Leitner comes from the new children’s publisher Scallywag Press. Its story follows a little girl who is moving with her parents to a new country and is worried about leaving her grandmother behind, so – in an enchanting flight of fancy, she makes her an aeroplane.’DAILY TELEGRAPH Best Children's Books of 2020;'The soft focus of Leitner’s pale yellow and green palette creates a soothing visual backdrop against which her spare poetic text sings. This is a beautiful metaphoric story about maintaining connection in distance, and as such, it is a brilliant reflection of our time, when so many children are separated from the people they love.' THE IRISH TIMES;‘This delicate, poignant picture book tells us of the loving relationshop between a grandmother and her small granddaughter … In these daus when families often are separated by oceands and time zones, the need for such abook as this is apparent, and the gentle light-touch illustrations, full of the yellow and blue of the splendid new coat, are a joy.’ BOOKS FOR KEEPS;‘This touching, gentle story about saying goodbye to our loved ones - and being distanced from them – is very poignant' BOOK TRUST

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Book Synopsis NATIONAL BESTSELLER!  'Grounded and relatable.' —Whitney Gardner, creator of Fake Blood   'Frank and honest portrayal of divorce, losing friends, and growing up' —Rex Ogle, co-creator of Four EyesFans of Real Friends and Be Prepared will love this energetic, affecting graphic memoir, in which a young girl uses her active imagination to navigate middle school as well as the fallout from her parents' divorce.  Tori has never lived in just one world. Since her parents' divorce, she's lived in both her mom's house and her dad's new apartment. And in both places, no matter how hard she tries, her family still treats her like a little kid. Then there's school, where friendships old and new are starting to feel more and more out of her hands. Thankfully, she has books-and writing. And now the stories s

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Book SynopsisThere were three people, standing in the darkest place, watching him. Simon is outraged that his Mum plans to remarry. He can't bear her new fiancé or the way his mother and sister seem to have forgotten his late father. Overwhelmed by hatred and anger he seeks solace in a nearby abandoned water mill. But another, powerful hatred lingers within its walls. And it is about to be unleashed... Westall's immense talent is evident from the opening line - Simon's anger and unhappiness are tangible, and the Scarecrows' ill-intentions terrifying.Trade ReviewPowerfully blends an exceptionally chilling drama with a story of insight and compassion about unhappiness -- Julia Eccleshare * Guardian *Robert Westall is the father of the golden age of children's literature in this century, quite unrivalled in his sharpness of observation and pace of narrative -- Michael MorpurgoA brooding story about jealousy, hatred, murder and love * Parents News *A hard-hitting book . . . a must-read from this ever popular author * Teaching & Learning *Atmospheric, perceptive and brilliant * Daily Echo *

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Book Synopsis_______________ 'Original, compulsive, uplifting: this is another triumph for Balen' - Alex O'Connell, The Times Children's Book of the Week 'Balen's best book yet: ambitious, funny, spirited, moving, heartfelt and bold all at once. She's a force to be reckoned with' - Ross Montgomery _______________ From the author of October, October, winner of the Yoto Carnegie Medal 2022, comes a life-affirming story about blended families and learning to find room in your heart for new life and new love. Tom is still quiet and timid, even though his dad has been gone for nearly two years now. Zofia has a raging storm that makes her want to fight the whole world until she gets what she wants. And what she wants is for scaredy-cat Tom to get out of her life. Tom hates loud, unpredictable Zofia just as much, but he’s moving into Zofia’s house. Because his mum and Zofia’s dad are in love... and they’re having a baby. Tom and Zofia both wish the stupid baby had never happened. But then Tom’s mum gets ill, and it begins to look horribly like their wish might come true... A story of learning to trust, trying to let go and diving into the unknown with hope in your heart, with a stunning cover illustrated by CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal winner Sydney Smith. _______________Trade ReviewI love Katya Balen’s clear-eyed, poetic writing style, first encountered in The Space We’re In and October, October. She has a special ability to dig deep into the emotional lives of the children she writes about; she is always privy to their darkest thoughts, always on their side. Original, compulsive, uplifting: this is another triumph for Balen. -- Alex O'Connell * The Times Children's Book of the Week *This is Balen's best book yet: ambitious, funny, spirited, moving, heartfelt and bold all at once. She's a force to be reckoned with * Ross Montgomery *This story literally took me by storm. A brave heart-dive into the deep emotions of Tom and Zofia, it’s beautifully told with care and tenderness * Jasbinder Bilan *I loved this book. The deftness with which Katya creates such passionate, funny, broken, brave characters. What an achievement. Katya Balen can break your heart and make you snort with laughter in the same sentence * Natasha Farrant *Katya Balen is rapidly becoming one of my favourite writers. This is a beautiful book that will capture you from the first page. An incredible book by an incredible writer. I loved it * Lisa Thompson *A bold, bright story of blended families, and how two remarkable children cope when their lives change dramatically. Katya Balen’s writing fizzes with her trademark originality and voice. This is another stunningly good read from one of my favourite authors * Emma Carroll *I loved this book * Hilary McKay *Heartbreaking and heart-warming in equal measure – warm, compassionate, insightful, lyrical, beautiful and uplifting * Catherine Bruton *I absolutely LOVE all Katya's writing and I adored reading this book. It's such a beautiful, subtle story which just transported me into the worlds of Zofia and Tom and like all the very finest stories, it has left a little shard of those lives within it lodged deep in my heart * Sophie Kirtley *A sensitive story about stitching a new family together from frayed pieces. So vividly imagined you can taste the salt in the air * Aisha Bushby *The Light in Everything is a moving, truthful, unflinching close up of a story, that proves how difficult it can be being a human among other humans, but how rewarding too when you allow yourself the space to breathe * A.F. Harrold *Katya Balen’s October, October is a very special new addition to the shelf and deserves classic status * Times Children's Book of the Week *Quite simply one of the most beautiful books I've ever read * Kiran Millwood Hargrave on OCTOBER, OCTOBER *October, October is fierce with a wild love. It draws you in to its heart, shakes you with a fury, wraps you in a spell of storytelling. In lyrical prose, Katya Balen gives us a modern day heroine filled with courage. I loved every page * Jackie Morris *Wise and bright - I loved it. * Hilary McKay on OCTOBER, OCTOBER *It's EXQUISITE. Read it. Wild yourself. Open your heart to it. Written with the pen of a poet and the soul of Mother Earth. Glorious. It's like nothing else I've ever read. Liz Hyder on OCTOBER, OCTOBER * Liz Hyder on OCTOBER, OCTOBER *The most wonderful, original treasure of a story * Emma Carroll on OCTOBER, OCTOBER *I’ve also just been introduced to the first two stunning children’s books by Katya Balen, both published by Bloomsbury: The Space We’re In and October, October. If you have a middle-grader, or know one, or are one ... treat yourself -- Daniel Hahn * Books of the Year, The Spectator *One of the most beautiful children’s books I’ve ever read * Natasha Farrant on OCTOBER, OCTOBER *A tear-jerker about family that shows us things that are important and true, and promotes compassion -- Nicolette Jones * The Sunday Times, Children's Book of the Week *This sensitive, heartbreaking story boasts a wonderful narrative voice and secret codes that add another layer of intrigue * Guardian on THE SPACE WE'RE IN *Now and then, and only now and then, a book changes us. The Space We’re In does that. It’s ferocious and it’s visionary * Kevin Crossley-Holland *

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Book Synopsis A hilarious adventure from the author of the bestselling Who Let the Gods Out? series! SHORTLISTED FOR THE INDIE CHILDREN'S BOOK AWARD 2021 'Twists, turns, spies and surprises. What more do you want? Tears? Laughter? Maz Evans delivers them all.' FRANK COTTRELL BOYCE 'Vi Spy: Licence to Chill is brilliant – knockabout, laugh-a-minute, heartfelt fun' ROSS MONTGOMERY 'Wildly hilarious' THE GUARDIAN Divorce is tough for any kid. But when – like Vi's parents – your mum is ex-secret service and your dad is a retired bad guy, 'till death do us part' takes on a whole new meaning. And with her parents' focus on each other, the real super-villains are having a field day. To save her family – and the world – from evil domination, Vi must turn spy ... The first book in a brand new middle-grade comedy adventure series by the author of the Who Let the Gods Out? series; book 1 shortlisted for the Waterstones Book Prize in 2018. A laugh-out-loud funny, high-octane spy story perfect for readers aged 8 and up. Perfectly combines humour and heart: addresses the realities of being caught between divorcing parents. Praise for the WHO LET THE GODS OUT? series: 'I totally fell in love with Elliot and the gods, and I think you're all going to love them too.' ROBIN STEVENS 'One of the funniest new voices in children's literature. The laughs come thick and fast' DAVID SOLOMONS '[A] relentlessly witty, fast-paced middle grade adventure' M.G. LEONARD

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Book SynopsisA philosophical, captivating and humorous book that asks some big questions about dysfunctional families, abuse and survival

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Book SynopsisThree starred reviews! ?Heartfelt and hilarious, witty and wise, with indelible characters and laugh-out-loud humor. A fantastic read for any season of the year.? ?Stuart Gibbs, New York Times bestselling author In New York Times bestselling author Morgan Matson?s middle grade debut ?brimming with heart, summer nostalgia, and a bit of mystery? (Julie Murphy, #1 New York Times bestselling author), a young girl gets to know her mom?s side of the family and hunts for hidden treasure over the course of one chaotic summer.For as long as Ryanna Stuart can remember, her summers have been spent with her father and his new wife. Just the three of them, structured, planned, and quiet. But this summer is different. This summer, she?s received a letter from her grandparents?grandparents neither she nor her dad have spoken to since her mom?s death?inviting her to stay with them at an old summer camp in the Poconos. Ryanna accepts. She wants to learn about her mom. She wants to uncover the mystery of why her father hasn?t spoken to her grandparents all these years. She?s even looking forward to a quiet summer by the lake. But what she finds are relatives?so many relatives! Aunts and uncles and cousins upon cousins?a motley, rambunctious crew of kids and eccentric, unconventional adults. People who have memories of her mom from when she was Ryanna?s age, clues to her past like a treasure map. Ryanna even finds an actual, real-life treasure map! Over the course of one unforgettable summer?filled with s?mores and swimming, adventure and fun, and even a decades-old mystery to solve?Ryanna discovers a whole new side of herself and that, sometimes, the last place you expected to be is the place where you really belong.

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Book SynopsisJillian isn''t so sure she needs a third grandma now that her stepdad is joining the family, but can her brand-new Bubbe win her over?When Jillian joins Bubbe for some mom-mandated matzo ball soup making, she realizes she has room in her heart (and stomach!) for one more grandmother. But how can she convince Noni and Gram she still loves them just as much? A super soup celebration, of course! Chaos in the kitchen leads to matzo ball soup, spicy gazpacho, meatball soup, and a trio of grandmas united in their love for their family. Complete with all three soup recipes, Brand-New Bubbe captures the warmth of blended family and honors the joys of cooking with the ones you love.

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Book SynopsisThis title explains the many ways families can change over time, the mixed feelings that these changes can cause, and the ways children can successfully process and adapt to change. The book includes easy-to-read text and vibrant photos, making it a great choice for beginning readers. It also includes a table of contents, picture glossary, and index. This Little Blue Readers book is at Level 2, aligned to reading levels of grades K-1 and interest levels of grades PreK-2.

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