Children & Teen Books

Book SynopsisUse the stickers of traditional clothes, shoes and accessories to dress the girl and boy dolls through the ages. From togas in Ancient Rome, wigs, high-heeled shoes and bodices in 1770s France to the miniskirts of the 1960s.

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Book SynopsisSnuggle up with this brand-new Guess How Much I Love You board book and soft toy set.A delightful book and soft toy gift set from the award-winning creators of Guess How Much I Love You everything you need for story time with a little loved one. Guess How Much I Love You is the story of Big Nutbrown Hare and Little Nutbrown Hare, and the adorable game they play to express their love for each other. But the hares soon discover that love is not an easy thing to measure! A new generation of little ones can now enjoy this cherished classic complete with an adorable cuddly hare.

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Book SynopsisAriba, An Old Tale about New Shoes retells an African folktale with humor and grace that shows how the true riches of childhood stay with us across our lives.Marcus’s joy over his new pair of shoes reminds his grandfather of an old story about a boy named Ariba who has the most wonderful and unusual relationship with an extraordinary pair of shoes. As a child, Ariba saves these special shoes for Sundays only, and they give him magic and the greatest happiness. When he grows up and moves to the city, he decides the old shoes can go. But no matter how many times Ariba tries to get rid of his shoes, they always seem to find their way back to him. After all, why would shoes caked, baked, and layered with stories ever want to find a new owner? For in life, just as we claim a few precious things as our own, there are also those rare things that claim us, too. With a diverse cast of characters, a Black protagonist, and great graphic illustrations, this is a book that teaches kids something worth knowing about the essence of life.Trade Review“This story is great fun to share with young listeners, who will giggle each time the shoes make their way back to Ariba and will be delighted to recognize Ariba’s shoes at the end. Older readers will appreciate the gentle thread about staying connected to one’s roots. The vibrant, printlike illustrations—in bold colors, emphasizing red, yellow, and green, on thick, soft paper—perfect the silly yet meaningful story. Marcus and Ariba have brown skin; other characters are fantastical shades of mustard yellow, paper white, rusty red, and charcoal black. Read it, share it, laugh out loud.” —Kirkus Reviews “Mixed-media illustrations in bright red, blue, green, pink, and black fill the pages with collage-style images. How the shoes came back into his possession and who Ariba is are answered in this quirky retelling of an African folktale.” —School Library Journal

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Book SynopsisThis fun and engaging activity book full of scratch-off art pages, coloring pages, games, puzzles, and more provides hours of entertainment for kids—and tells the story of a unicorn who learns the power of teamwork and friendship. Pippa the unicorn loves pizza, but she needs all her friends’ help to learn how to make it! Readers use the wooden stylus that comes with the book to trace illustrations of Pippa’s story, scratching off the magic ink to reveal rainbow swirls or sparkly foil underneath. Unicorn Pizza Party contains 20 of these magic scratch-off pages along with 20 regular coloring pages to color in with crayon, colored pencil, or marker, as well as 20 pages of games and puzzles such as word searches, word scrambles, and more. In addition to the hours of entertainment provided by these art activities, kids will learn the power of teamwork and friendship alongside Pippa and her magical friends.

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Book SynopsisThis bumper treat combines the funniest material from Jokes for Funny Kids: 6 Year Olds, Jokes for Funny Kids: 7 Year Olds and Jokes for Funny Kids: 8 Year olds. Why did the music teacher carry a ladder around with him?To reach the high notes. Why did the cookie cry?Because his father was a wafer so long.I’m giving away a parachute…… No strings attached.My dad got me a dictionary for my birthday…… I still couldn’t find the words to thank him.Packed with gigglesome gags, witty one-liners and classic knock knocks to use on friends and family, this book is guaranteed to have readers and listeners in fits of laughter. Each joke is accompanied by a lively and humorous illustration, taking entertainment to the next level. Easy to read and full of endless fun, this is the perfect companion for young jokers.Also available in the 'Buster Laugh-a-lot' series:9781780556260 Jokes for Funny Kids: 6 Year Olds9781780556246 Jokes for Funny Kids: 7 Year Olds 9781780556253 Jokes for Funny Kids: 8 Year Olds9781780557083 The Christmas Joke Book for Funny Kids

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Book SynopsisJoin these magnificent ponies as they fly through the sky, prance around a castle and explore a crystal cave. Little children will love adding over 170 stickers, including special sparkly stickers, to these magical scenes.

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Book SynopsisHo-ho-ho! Celebrate the festive season with this awesome LEGO® gift set. Inside you'll find a fun interactive activity book, a puzzle pad and over 60 LEGO bricks. You can build the characters from the stories, play along and create fun adventures of your own. The only limit is your own imagination!LEGO, the LEGO logo and the Brick and Knob configurations are trademarks of the LEGO Group. ©2021 The LEGO Group.Manufactured by AMEET Sp. z o.o. under license from the LEGO Group.

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Book SynopsisHave interactive fun with baby and very young children introducing three popular Bible stories with its rustling and sounds to make. This simple and colourful tactile cloth book is perfect for sharing during storytime to encourage chatting about all the stars, plants, and animals that God has made, Adam and Eve, and God saving Noah and the ark full of animals. An exciting book for story time for little hands to spot things and explore. The Crinkles series of cloth books have an irresistible crinkling sound to stimulate active senses in the developmental steps from birth.

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Book SynopsisA pocket-sized guide to the very peculiar county of Yorkshire!

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Book SynopsisCastle Dracula is shrouded with mystery. The building is maze-like, the owner only appears in the dead of night and during the day sleeps deep underground in the cold! Jonathan is desperate to return to England, but first he must escape from the castle and pray that Count Dracula doesn't follow.

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Book SynopsisThe Stiltons are off to Portugal! As descendants of famouse explorer Vasco da Gama, they’ve been invited to recreate his first voyage. Geronimo is even playing the part of the captain! If only he didn’t get so seasick. And if only someone wasn’t trying to sabotage the trip! Can Geronimo stop them before it’s too late? About the Geronimo Stilton series: Geronimo Stilton is a bestselling children’s series with a dedicated international fan base. As seen on Netflix, the series follows the adventures of the Geronimo Stilton the fa-mouse journalist, as he searches for the next hot scoop. With illustrations and fun fonts throughout, Geronimo Stilton is perfect for reluctant readers aged 5+ years.Trade Review“This is a fun-filled, early chapter book with cute new illustrations.” – MD Walker, Netgalley

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Book SynopsisColour detailed images of one of the best-selling characters on the market, Stitch, in this premium colouring format

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Book SynopsisIt’s been five years since Anne came to Green Gables and she’s quite grown-uppish now. True she’s more interested in writing about love than falling in it, and her nose still has seven freckles. But as the new teacher at her old school, she’s left her days of breaking slates and walking ridgepoles behind. She’s determined not to get into any more trouble. Then again, one can't get over the habit of being a little girl all at once … Book 2 of the Anne of Green Gables series by L. M. Montgomery. A tale of literature’s most famous redhead and her colourful imagination. An excellent introduction to classic literature and perfect for readers aged 9+.

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Book SynopsisOne Monday morning, Horace Norton finds that a mouse has made a house in his hat. On Tuesday, there are a selection of stoats in his satchel . . . and on Wednesday, a collection of cats curled up in his coat!What will Mr Norton do when, as the week progresses, the animals take over his bathroom, his bed - and even HIS BEARD?!With a message of kindness and an accumulative text that begs to be read aloud, this is a future classic in the making.

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Book SynopsisAn adapted and illustrated edition of the Russian classic, at an easy-to-read level for all ages! Strange things are happening in Moscow. A giant cat walks on its hind-legs and a witch with red hair flies through the sky on a broomstick. There’s a sell-out show at the theatre with a devilish magician who seems to be behind everything. But how? And what does it have to do with an unfinished book about Jesus and Pontius Pilate? Can the residents of Moscow figure out what is true, and what is simply a story? About The Russian Classics Children's Collection: From the dazzling ballrooms of St. Petersburg to the blazing war-torn streets of Moscow, children can now experience the famous, epic Russian stories. Suitably adapted and illustrated for children aged 7+.

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Book SynopsisIshbel and Kenneth need to save their family from going hungry, so when they remember the old local tale about treasure under Urquhart Castle, they set off across Loch Ness in a rowing boat. But the loch may be hiding its own secrets. There's another ancient story about a giant monster living in the depths... Legends of the Loch Ness Monster abound, but this new tale from renowned Scottish children's author and storyteller Lari Don sidesteps the modern Nessie to create a new Loch Ness Monster myth inspired by local folklore.A perfect companion to bestselling picture book The Secret of the Kelpie, also by Lari Don, this timeless tale of Scotland's most famous creature, atmospherically brought to life by Natasa Ilincic's stunning illustrations, is destined to become the classic Loch Ness Monster story.Trade Review'Author Lari Don tells a magical tale that has the cadence and all the earmarks of an ancient myth using a monster that will be familiar to most youngsters as the basis. The gorgeous illustrations by Natasa Ilincic will carry young readers to the British Isles through enchanting drawings that are filled with charming details. This is a real winner. 5/5.'-- Manhattan Book Review 'With a refreshing new spin on the classic legend of the Loch Ness Monster, Lari Don offers children a tender and inspiring tale.'-- Scottish Field'This beautifully told traditional tale is based on a lake legend originating in 1883 and feels respectful and authentic in every way, from the Scottish brogues and terminology to the freckled faces and red hair of the protagonists. Ilincic's illustrations are emotionally evocative, walking the line perfectly between creating a monster that is awe-inspiring and terrifying -- especially in one heart-stopping spread, when the children first see the creature's huge shadow circling underneath their rowboat -- yet eventually gentle and maternal. The mini-adventure is as classic as something from the Grimm Brothers, while also being, somehow, entirely new.'-- Booklist'Along with atmospheric views of the deep loch's swirling waters and long, low hills beneath cloudy skies, Ilincic crafts a particularly magnificent monster, green, scaly, and dragonesque.'-- Kirkus'The children I was reading to were totally engaged […] There were gasps from them at the beautiful illustrations. I think the wonderful illustrations, along with a beautifully told tale, in simple language is a triumph! I loved that Nessie was portrayed not a cartoony way, but as a very believable, life like animal, something the children could imagine actually seeing. A truly inspiring and magical book!'-- storyteller Anita Peggie, Facts & Fiction'Utterly stunning… Amidst what can be a crowded Nessie market, this is a tale that draws on traditional myth and local folklore to create a more traditional story that is sure to appeal to children from Scotland and further afield… Natasa Ilincic's Nessie is dragon-like, almost Tolkien-esque. Her illustrations of the Scottish Highlands have just the right amount of realism and atmosphere to evoke this magical place but leave enough to children's imaginations to create their own world.' -- Lomond'Imaginatively written and beautifully illustrated… Very highly recommended for children ages 3 to 7, 'The Treasure of the Loch Ness Monster' will prove to be an immediate and enduringly popular addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections.'-- Midwest Book Review'Beautifully illustrated in rich warm tones, Loch Ness and its wonderful sea monster come to life for the reader.'-- Youth Services Book Review'As a seasoned storyteller, Lari's writing is whimsical and has a wonderful quality to read aloud -- you feel like a true storyteller yourself when weaving her carefully spun words. And the illustrations are a beautiful depiction of what makes Scotland great -- mystery, beauty and magic!'-- BookBairn, book blogger'Lari Don's narrative is evocative and totally engaging as she draws the reader in to this most mystical tale. The dreamlike illustrations from Nataša Ilincic match the story perfectly, dark and fascinating against majestic landscapes. Kenneth and Ishbel's story is wrapped up nicely at the end of the book but the appearance and actions of the Loch Ness Monster are as mysterious as her legend leaving the reader's imagination free to dream up their own stories about her.'-- Acorn Books, book bloggerPraise for The Secret of the Kelpie:'The Secret of the Kelpie is a classic tale of the kelpie that is wonderfully and beautifully retold for children ages 4-7 in this gripping adaptation by renowned Scottish children's author and storyteller Lari Don, and enhanced with the breathtaking illustrations by artist Philip Longson. Very highly recommended for school and community library picture book collections.'-- Midwest Book Review'The story is haunting, and along with its lovely, detailed illustrations, it captures the look and feel of Scotland perfectly. '--Goodreads, BarbaraPraise for the Scottish Traditional Tales:'Beautiful books which are a great introduction to the folklore genre… Wonderful stories which will give children a real sense of Scottish culture.'-- Creative Steps

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Book SynopsisMushroom is having the worst day EVER. First, he's not picked to go on the pizza (and Pineapple is chosen instead of him - can you BELIEVE it?! PINEAPPLE!). Then, Milk spills all over him. And then he's thrown in the compost bin. The indignity! I know exactly what you're thinking . . . it's time to build a mushroom army and take revenge! A laugh-out-loud picture book with the message that revenge never pays.

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Book Synopsis"The river twisted and turned through the forest. Alex and Jo saw lots of extraordinary birds, but none were the Rainbow Bird." Unless Jo and Alex can find the last Rainbow Bird, its species will become extinct. Journeying by riverboat through a spectacular forest, the children find many extraordinary birds -- elegant Underwater Birds, glowing Lamp Birds and excitable Big-to-Little Birds -- but will they find the last Rainbow Bird? This vibrant picture book by award-winning author and illustrator Nora Brech is a riot of colour, imagination and wonder. Children will love the heartfelt, fun story which gently and imaginatively explores wildlife conservation.Trade Review'The extraordinary illustrations, hand-drawn, using digital methods, have an “other world”, old-fashioned retro feel. They are quirky and unique.’-- Youth Services Books Review'Utterly lovely from start to finish.'-- Elizabeth Bird, School Library Journal'Featuring bright, whimsical illustrations and an animated narrative, this translated Norwegian title incorporates amusing elements and lots of playful detail to pore over. An entertaining read and approach to the topic of rare-bird conservation and protecting endangered species.'-- Booklist'Travel with them by riverboat through the spectacular forest; discover astoundingly beautiful birds and simply enjoy the wonder that is this vibrant picture book.'-- Armadillo'The singularly fabulous world of the Rainbow Bird, created by award-winning author-illustrator Nora Brech, is a riot of colour, imagination, and wonder. Children will love the heartfelt and humorous story that gently conveys an important conservation message.'-- YA Books Central'Stunning in its simplicity and playfulness… While the theme about the importance of safeguarding rare animals from extinction comes through clearly in this Norwegian import, the rich, rainbow-colored illustrations are truly the stars here… A joyous conservation message wrapped in a colorful feast for the eyes.’-- Kirkus Reviews'Certain to evoke ripples of laughter and draw the watchful, curious eyes of young children as they travel through the pages.' -- Manhattan Book Review'A vibrant and animated story which offers children an introduction to wildlife conservation. The illustrations are simply beautiful and are so detailed.'-- OurBookDays, Instagram'Brilliant and captivating... A great way to start a conversation about conservation with little ones.'-- ReadingExpressions, Instagram'I especially adore the illustrations in this book, so vibrant, whimsical, and full of life.'-- EcoCraftKids, Instagram'Quite possibly the most beautiful picture book cover of the year. I mean everything about it is glorious. The sunset sky, the characters on their riverboat, the tornado of rainbow birds streaking across the sky. It is just breath-takingly beautiful. It's heartfelt and humorous but also explores themes of wildlife conservation.' -- Bookbairn, Instagram'Celebrates the diverse beauty in not just birds, but in all living things. The color of this spectacular landscape explodes on each page, twisting and turning with vibrance, texture, and flare. It helps open up conversations about conservation, and how we can help keep birds of all feathers soaring high for many years to come.'-- NannyMissMonique, Instagram'The Last Rainbow Bird is filled with beautiful, colorful, and whimsical pictures. This story is a sweet adventure of finding the last Rainbow bird. I can't wait to buy my own physical copy for my classroom library to share with my class!'-- NetGalley Educator'One of the most visually stunning books I have seen in years!!Vibrant colors, watercolor like textures, artwork that conveys movement & energy and a quirky color palette. A great tale to teach younger readers about conservation and the importance of saving and protecting animals from extinction.'-- NetGalley Reviewer'The Last Rainbow Bird subtly introduces youngsters to conservationism, using the imaginary Rainbow Bird as a stand-in for the many critically endangered species that do exist around the world... The bright, vibrant illustrations speak for themselves. A symphony of colors dances across each page highlighting the beauty of the natural world.'-- KidsReadTheWorld, Instagram'A stunning read. [...] Behind the imaginative story is a very real and important message of protecting nature.'-- Kid Lit is Lit, Instagram'What a beautiful book! The illustrations in this story are award worthy and the story it's self is a beautiful and gentle introduction into conservation for children. While the birds in the book are whimsical, it is easy to translate the story into an educational and practical experience for young readers. I would highly recommend this book for all children and very much look forward to planning a conservation story time with this book!'-- NetGalley Educator'The Last Rainbow Bird illustrations draw you into the look for the last rainbow bird. Beautifully written as a way to easily understand the importance of conservation. The story also celebrates the uniqueness of different cultures and people.'-- NetGalley Educator'A beautiful story of kids helping an ecologist save a bird species. The illustrations are so vibrant, stylized, and full of movement that I felt swept into the story world and stayed there until the very end. I am so excited to see more of Nora Brech's art!! Wonderful messages about conservation and how children can take action. Loved this book!'-- NetGalley Reviewer

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Book SynopsisPaint a still-life like Vincent Van Gogh! Create a cubist collage like Pablo Picasso! Make a polka-dot pumpkin like Yayoi Kusama! This book will make YOU an artist as you explore 25 different art techniques - from cave painting to contemporary performance - inspired by ground-breaking artists from around the world. And discover famous masterpieces with photographs of real works of art! Pick up your pencils, collect your collage materials and find out more about some of world's best-known creatives in this fact-filled book full of step-by-step activities that are easy to try at home. Including information about tools, materials and basic art theory, this imaginative book is jam-packed with ideas for aspiring artists everywhere. List of artists featured: A cave painter, an ancient Roman mosaic maker, Leonardo da Vinci, Artemisia Gentileschi, Katsushika Hokusai, Moses Williams, Claude Monet, Georges-Pierre Seurat, Vincent Van Gogh, Henri Matisse, Pablo Picasso, Hilma Af Klint, Salvador Dali, Frida Kahlo, Hugo Ball, Barbara Hepworth, Janet Sobel, Andy Warhol, Bridget Riley, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Judith Scott, Emily Kame Kngwarreye, Liu Bolin, Yayoi Kusama, Esther Mahlangu.

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Book SynopsisDiscover tales of dragons around the world, from Russian treasure hoarders to scaly Japanese princesses and winged Mexican gods, in this gorgeously illustrated gift anthology. From the acclaimed creators of the Illustrated Scottish Treasuries collection.

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Book SynopsisAn eye-catching new nature novelty series for babies that love spotting wildlife!Even babies can be minibeast explorers!

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Book SynopsisBuild early mathematics skills like counting, number recognition, understanding relative quantity and size, and more with Number Circus. This large, sturdy lift-the-flap book teems with humorous vignettes set at a rambunctious circus.

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Book SynopsisAddasiad Cymraeg gan Elin Meek o stori boblogaidd Dodie Smith One Hundred and One Dalmatians. Pan fydd cŵn bach Pongo a Missis yn cael eu dwyn, maen nhw'n gwybod mai Cruella de Vil sydd ar fai. Ond a all y Dalmasiwns achub eu cŵn bach annwyl mewn pryd?

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Book SynopsisThe fantastically funny fourth title in Jonny Duddle's bestselling Jolley-Rogers fiction series.One morning the townspeople of Dull-on-Sea wake to find that their town is overrun with rats. Big rats, small rats, fierce rats, hungry rats - it is an infestation! Just when everyone is at their wit's end, a nautical stranger who plays the pipe turns up and offers to get rid of the rodent problem - for a fee. Once that rats have gone, the greedy mayor refuses to pay - so the Pirate Piper plays an enchanted tune and leads the children away. It's up to Matilda, Jim and Nugget to save their friends.

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Book Synopsis A book for children aged 6+ who want to know the score about football jobs, written by former Arsenal and England footballer and CBeebies TV presenter Rachel Yankey Do you have what it takes to become a professional footballer, a manager or even to work in sports TV? Learn all about football and the incredible sports jobs you could do, from training to become a player or team coach to running the game as a referee, scouting young players for talent or even working inside the stadium. This book will inspire any girl or boy who wants to kick start their interest in playing football.Other titles in the series include: How to be an Astronaut and other Space Jobs and How to be a Vet and other Animal Jobs

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Book Synopsis At Zoe's Rescue Zoo only the cutest, cuddliest animals need apply! Zoe loves living at her uncle's rescue zoo because there's always something exciting going on. And Zoe also has an amazing secret... She can actually TALK to the animals! When Zoe's school friends visit the rescue zoo to pick a class animal, Hugo the hedgehog wants to help. But he keeps getting into trouble! Can Zoe find a way for Hugo to be helpful? Another fantastic title in the perfect series for young animal lovers, beautifully illustrated throughout by Sophy Williams. Have you read Zoe's other adventures? The Lonely Lion Cub, The Puzzled Penguin, The Silky Seal Pup, The Eager Elephant, The Lucky Snow Leopard, The Pesky Polar Bear, The Cuddly Koala, The Wild Wolf Pup, The Happy Hippo, The Sleepy Snowy Owl, The Scruffy Sea Otter, The Picky Puffin, The Giggly Giraffe, The Curious Kangaroo, The Super Sloth, The Little Llama, The Messy Meerkat

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Book SynopsisA visually stunning, heartfelt, touching and empowering graphic novel, inspired by Linda Sargent's own lived experience.

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Book SynopsisIn the dark, dangerous streets of Victorian London Oliver enters the world of people so poor and desperate that they will take any risk and know no mercy. Relentlessly pursued by the menacing criminal world, who should Oliver trust? Are his true friends strong enough to resist the determined plotting of desperate villains? In this gripping tale of kidnapping, shooting and murder, Charles Dickens shows the threats to a vulnerable boy’s existence and asks the eternal question: which is more powerful, good or evil?Trade ReviewAt a recent department meeting, it became evident that Dickens is an author who can divide a room. ‘Let’s teach some Dickens at key stage three,’ some argued. ‘I can’t imagine anything worse,’ others said. ‘Too difficult’, ‘too wordy’, ‘enough to put anyone off’. ‘But the stories are great,’ I argued. It’s easy to see both sides of the argument. As someone who has dipped in and out of Dickens over the years, I have always been delighted by the actual reading of the novel, but sometimes it has taken a considerable effort of will to start the thing. Many are long, all are complex, and there is some truth in the assertion that they are too difficult—not for all, certainly, but for some children at key stage three, Dickens could sound the death knell for reading pleasure. There is a case, then, for a differentiated Dickens, and here, as with other literary classics, Real Reads provides a helpful solution. The series currently includes nine of the major novels: Bleak House, A Christmas Carol, David Copperfield, Hard Times, Oliver Twist and Great Expectations, The Old Curiosity Shop, A Tale of Two Cities and Little Dorrit. All follow the same format—a couple of pages introducing the characters with some delightful illustrations by Karen Donnelly, forty-seven pages of narrative and a ‘Taking Things Further’ section at the back. Like other Real Reads, too, the novels are not designed to replace the originals, but to complement them. The publisher’s hope is that for some readers, the Real Reads are a springboard into the original texts; for others it is to broaden their range of cultural experience and introduce them to a world of wonderful plots and characters. What makes these retellings particularly appealing from a classroom point of view is that significant attention is paid to the language use characteristic of the authors. The novels are retold with some integrity to the original—that is that some of the cadence of Dickens is retained; that some of the vocabulary remains authentic, and that some of those seminal passages remain relatively unaltered. Take the opening of A Tale of Two Cities as an example, ‘It was the best of times, it was the worst of times; it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness; it was the season of wealth, it was the season of poverty. In short, it was a time very much like the present.’ In short, it is very much like the original. The retellings go some way to preserving Dickens’s characters and while there are of course casualties, the characters that remain are rounded and engaging. For Oliver we feel pity as he pleads with Sikes ‘P-p-p-please don’t make me steal,’ in the face of Sikes terrifying whisper ‘Quiet, vermin’. We long for Nancy to be saved by Mrs Maylie and feel the poignancy of her departure: ‘You must take Oliver to safety. I must return to my life.’ We sense the justice in Fagin’s wait for death ‘his face so distorted and pale, his eyes so bloodshot, that he already looked more dead than alive as he awaited his punishment.’ Of course, we also feel the delight and relief as ‘Oliver and Mr Brownlow walked hand in hand to their carriage.’ Some of Dickens’s humour is preserved: Mrs Joe is to be found bringing Pip up by hand and at the birth of David Copperfield, Peggotty’s ‘bosom swelled with such joy and pride that two buttons popped from her bodice and flew across the room.’ The heartbreak remains too: ‘As he wasted away over the next few days, Little Dorrit didn’t leave her father’s side. His spirit was like a maimed bird, able to think only of the place that had broken its wings. Finally, his spirit broke free of all earthly concerns. Little Dorrit wept bitterly. The ‘Filling in the Spaces’ section at the back of each book provides a helpful resource for teachers. Elements of the plot that have been omitted in order to contain the retelling in such a thin volume are listed here and can provide a useful point of departure to read some of the original text. There is some contextual material pertinent to the text, so for Little Dorrit we learn that Dickens’s father was sent to Marshalsea Prison when Dickens was twelve and for Hard Times we can read about the rise of steam power and the way in which machinery in factories gave rise to mass migration to cities. There is also a two-page section called ‘Food for thought’ that provides points for discussion, themes, style and symbols and would neatly help shape classroom discussion and activity. In The Old Curiosity Shop, for example, ‘Oscar Wilde said that Nell’s death makes the reader laugh, whereas critics in Dickens’ time were usually overcome by grief. Which is closer to your own reaction? Why?’ would lend itself very well to paired, group or whole-class debate. Thinking about how the symbols of fog, hands, light and shadow and city and countryside match the action in Bleak House immediately suggests ways in which pupils might track language against action as they read. At the lower end of the price range for class readers, the excellent and durable quality of the books presents a good investment at £4.99 RRP for individual texts. -- Jane Campion * English in Use *

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Book SynopsisRun Wild with Wolf Brother. Million-copy-selling author, Michelle Paver immerses you in ice-cold magic and non-stop adventure, as Torak, Renn and Wolf battle for their lives and use all their skills and knowledge of nature to survive. For two summers Torak and Renn have been living in the Forest with their faithful pack-brother, Wolf. But their happiness is shattered when Renn realizes Torak is in danger – and she's the threat. When she mysteriously disappears, Torak and Wolf brave the Far North to find her. At the mercy of the Sea Mother and haunted by ravenous ice bears, their quest leads them to the Edge of the World. There they must face an enemy more evil than any they've encountered. VIPER'S DAUGHTER: read it as a standalone or part of the series and plunge into the Stone-Age world of Torak, Renn and Wolf – a world of demons, Hidden People and exhilarating adventure which has entranced millions of readers. Also available as an audiobook, read by Sir Ian Mckellen Praise for Viper's Daughter: 'What rich, dazzling, immersive storytelling... The best book I have read this year by a country mile. (By a wild arctic length of many wolf lopes, I suppose I should say)' Hilary McKay, author of The Skylarks' War 'Michelle is in a league of her own with this series and what luck for us all that she hasn't finished with Torak, Renn and Wolf's world yet' Abi Elphinstone, author of Rumblestar 'Viper's Daughter is sharp, striking, and loaded with the wisdom of the deep past. I am in awe of Paver's accomplishment' Sophie Anderson, author of The House with Chicken Legs 'Skillful, satisfying, and minutely researched, this powerful evocation of an ancient world is vivid in its imagery and captivating in its excitement' Adrienne Byrne, Muswell Hill Children's Bookshop 'Paver's love for the natural world comes across so strongly in her writing and her imagination takes you on a twisting, fantastic journey all the way to the Edge of the World' Grace Barrett, Waterstones NorwichTrade ReviewThis is a story of demons, mammoths and the hostile landscape of the north... Both love story and supernatural adventure, underpinned by research into (and experience of) survival skills and the practices of ancient clans. It transports us a long way from the here and now' * Sunday Times, Book of the Week *Children trapped at home now have at least one reason to celebrate – the long-awaited return of the Wolf Brother series... This is immersive and gripping, with richly evocative descriptions of the natural world and Paver's total control of her imaginary kingdom maintains the tension to the very end. Welcome back!' * Daily Mail *Meticulously researched, atmospheric [...] and relentless, this instalment deservedly introduces Paver to a new generation of readers * Guardian *What rich, dazzling, immersive storytelling. The landscape was so bright the light left me blinking, the details as sharp as a carved bone needle. To journey with Torak and Renn, and Wolf, whose ears were so keen he could hear the clouds pass, was an absolute privilege. The best book I have read this year by a country mile. (By a wild arctic length of many wolf lopes, I suppose I should say)' -- Hilary McKay, author of The Skylarks' WarA triumph of storytelling... The sense of adventure and human spirit is exhilarating, and Paver's passion for nature, for wildlife, for the world's wondrous wilds is an immersive joy... The sense of demonic danger is powerfully palpable, the writing rich, yet exquisitely sparse and smoothly readable, and the entirety of this enthralling adventure is laced with an uplifting sense of camaraderie, love and legend' * LoveReading4Kids *Michelle Paver is a writer of extraordinary talent. I was enthralled, from start to finish. The storytelling was every bit as vivid and immersive as I remembered... Michelle is in a league of her own with this series and what luck for us all that she hasn't finished with Torak, Renn and Wolf's world yet' -- Abi Elphinstone, author of RumblestarSkillful, satisfying, and minutely researched, this powerful evocation of an ancient world is vivid in its imagery and captivating in its excitement' -- Adrienne Byrne, Muswell Hill Children's BookshopI grew up reading the Wolf Brother series... Viper's Daughter both quenches a thirst and reignites my hunger for more' -- Ollie Campbell, 17, readerPaver's journeys permeate her work with rich detail, bringing not only the landscape to life but the human existence too * The Bookseller. *A world of exhilarating adventure where nature is honoured, where demons thrive, and where the bond of friendship are all * Parent Talk *Readers learn a tremendous amount about Stone Age life from the depth of authentic detail that Paver weaves effortlessly into her story, whilst never sacrificing fast pace and page-turning gusto * Book Trust *Well-written and alive with authentic details * Time & Leisure *There's no better time-travelling guide than Michelle Paver, and the seventh instalment in her Chronicles of Ancient Darkness series, which kicked off with the magnificent Wolf Brother, guarantees escapism with its action, clever character development and glorious descriptions of nature 6,000 years ago... This book is so skilfully researched and written (Paver does for the Stone Age what Hilary Mantel does for the Tudors)' * The Times *It keeps a fast pace, making it a real page turner. Descriptions of the icy landscape, crackling with demon-infested volcanoes, all add to the tension. Characters quickly feel familiar, even for readers new to the series, and the interpretation of events through Wolf's eyes makes it thoroughly enjoyable. Author Michelle Paver does an excellent job of making this a standalone read * Irish Examiner *Paver knows a narrative hook when she writes one: "Renn wouldn't do that. She wouldn't leave him without a word." Pause. "But she had." She knows, too, how to combine convincing details ("bowstrings of braided deer sinew"), vivid atmospherics ("the endless soughing of the sea") and supernatural dramatics (a sea goddess). A fine comeback * South China Morning Post *A magical, escapist adventure as Torak and his wolf-brother search for his partner Renn * Sunday Times *Rich with descriptions of the natural world and imaginary kingdoms, a must for all Wolf Brother fans * Daily Mail *[It] will delight fans both old and new... This is master storytelling; atmospheric and thrilling by turns... A welcome return to this fascinating world' * Books for Keeps *This is pre-history historical fiction of the very finest... It has pace, is gripping and totally action packed. An adventure that will keep readers engaged whilst also being written with style and grace that few can deliver. Another Paver masterpiece' * English 4-11 *

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Book Synopsis'Delicious, dastardly and diabolically delightful' JACK MEGGITT-PHILLIPS, author of THE BEAST AND THE BETHANYMonsters + (secretly highly dangerous) doughnuts = all the ingredients for an explosively funny read!Tenth-generation monster-hunter Grace has a unique way of bumping off monsters. She and her sister run a bakery, Cake Hunters, where they make fabulous creations full of a special exploding baking powder that will get rid of any troublesome monster!And now Grace has a new and unlikely partner in crime - 360-year-old cyclops Mr Harris. They have a new and perilous mission from the Secret Service - to rid the city of a pesky Bottom-Biter who is causing havoc. If only Mr Harris would stop just eating the monsters and honing his advanced patisserie skills in Grace's bakery, what a team they'll make!

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Book SynopsisIt's January 1928, the day before the great flood. There's a snowstorm and the river is about to burst its banks-fourteen souls will be lost. Can Glory an orphan with only one hand and her time-travelling friend Needle and their pet crow change the future? Is there anyone among all those people entombed in the snow-shrouded town who will listen?Trade ReviewPICKED BY THE IRISH INDEPENDENT AS ONE OF THE BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR. 'Magical and original.'-The characters are splendidly drawn. A remarkable debut which features a brilliant and surprising ending.' Irish Examiner.-Rich with historical detail, evocative-classic in tone and original in vision.' Irish Times.- The plot swirls and sparkles and will keep readers on tenterhooks.'Lovereading4Kids, Debut of the Month-A fabulous and totally left field adventure.' Angels and Urchins. -Filled with memorable characters, a treasure. ' Just Imagine-An enchanting time twisting adventure. Kieran Larwood. --Gripping with a brilliant twist inn the tail. Helena Duggan.-Glorious storytelling, Nicki Thornton. -Written in an unique and memorable voice, not one to miss.' Sinead O'Hart.

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Book SynopsisWho's ever heard of a penguin that doesn''t like the cold? Surrounded by the same old snow day in day out and always bloomin' freezing, Clive Penguin wishes he wassomewhere else. SOMEONE else. But, with an epic discovery just around the corner, the solution might be easier than he thinks . . .From real life polar-exploring adventurer Huw Lewis Jones and award-winning illustrator Ben Sanders comes aquirky story about getting what you need, rather than what you want.Readers will hoot with laughter at the hilariously deadpan Clive Penguin a unique voice that's perfect for fans of Jon Klassen, Oliver Jeffers and Morag Hood.Featuring edgy illustrations complete with neon orange ink. Oh, and penguins.

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Book SynopsisSuperJoe is convinced he doesn't need cuddles from his mum. He flies around the neighbourhood rescuing people from escaped tigers, runaway trains and raging rivers, all while battling his nemesis the Grey Shadow. Naturally, he refuses all cuddles. Until one night, when he can't sleep...Trade Review"A sweet story about a child’s active imagination, friendship, and independence" * Kirkus Reviews *“A sweet story full of lively illustrations that shows even the mightiest of superheroes sometimes need a cuddle from their mama”-Glorious Reads * Glorious Reads *"Super fun, super playful, this stunning picture book captures the youthful imagination and burgeoning independence of caped crusader SuperJoe. With clever comic-style illustrations and warm-hearted humour, it’s a timely reminder that everyone needs a reassuring hug from Mum sometimes"-Fabia Turner, Founder of the Jericho Book Prize and Book Reviewer * Fabia Turner *"Fantastic! The superhero cannon is a common one, so I was very excited to see a Black superhero portrayed. I think kids and parents will relate to the imaginative play and resistance of cuddles in this one"-I Have a Book For That

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Book SynopsisThe Fantastic Facts set covers Telling the Time, The Solar System, My First World Map and Times Tables

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Book Synopsis

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Book SynopsisOver 100 animal-themed crossword puzzles, covering everything from sea creatures and land mammals to birds, pets and insects - and plenty of general knowledge. With quirky wildlife illustrations to enjoy on every page, the crosswords grow gradually more challenging throughout the book. These puzzles are perfect for long journeys and playing with friends and family, and they're great for children's spelling and vocabulary, too!

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Book SynopsisFrom the bestselling author of How Are You Feeling Today?, this picture book encourages children to celebrate uniqueness and diversity and helps them to challenge stereotypes. The Same but Different explores the ways in which we’re all unique as well as the similarities we all share. Using everyday examples, clear explanations and colourful illustrations by Sarah Jennings, this book encourages children to rejoice in their differences. After all, imagine how boring the world would be if everyone was exactly the same! This book covers lots of ways in which we're different, including how we look, where we live, the languages we speak, what our families are like and what we believe in. It's the perfect resource for starting important conversations with children about diversity and inclusion, with topics such as race, disability, gender, sexual orientation and religion. Early Years and PSHE expert Molly Potter also provides a glossary of terms and notes for parents and carers offering advice on tackling prejudice right from the start. Let’s Talk books help you start meaningful conversations with your child. Written by an expert and covering topics like feelings, relationships, diversity and mental health, these comforting picture books support healthy discussion right from the start.Trade ReviewMolly Potter's books are just gorgeous and this one is another winner! * Kathy Brodie, Early Years expert and host of Early Years TV *A good starting point for conversations about inclusion. * The Bookseller *

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Book SynopsisA gorgeous picture book to introduce children to Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr written by acclaimed children’s author Sufiya Ahmed with beautiful, colourful illustrations by Hazem Asif. Eid al-Fitr is Aisha’s favourite festival and this year her family have promised her and her brother an epic treasure hunt to find their gifts. But between all the chaos and celebrations, will Aisha ever get her presents? From breaking fast to going to the mosque, painting your hands with henna to sharing tasty treats, Aisha’s story is the ideal introduction to explore the story of Eid with your children, family or pupils and would make a beautiful gift for Eid. Featuring gorgeous colour illustrations, a non-fiction section with Eid facts, a glossary of key vocabulary, and an accessible story, this stunning picture book is a must have for every child's bookshelf.Trade ReviewThe Best Eid Ever is a fantastic resource for children. Through detailed pictures with plenty of colour, and the vocabulary in the text, children can visually see and understand the traditional and cultural aspects of the festival. * ReadingZone *I shared this book with 6-7 year olds who all celebrate Eid and it was wonderful seeing their smiling faces reading a book about their faith and celebrations. A great addition to classrooms and school libraries! * ReadingZone *

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