Children & Teen Books

Book SynopsisWinnie-the-Pooh can travel with you wherever you go with this mini pocket library containing six sweet books!Each book in this little library introduces one of A.A.Milne''s beloved characters from the Hundred Acre Wood including Pooh, Piglet, Eeyore, Kanga, Rabbit and Christopher Robin. Beautifully illustrated in a young, nursery style, inspired by the original decorations by E.H.Shepard.It's perfect for little hands and suitable for children aged 10 months and up.This set is small enough to carry with you, so the books can be used to entertain children wherever you go. Children will also love placing the book back covers in the right order to reveal a big picture of Winnie-the-Pooh and his friends.Milne's classic children's stories featuring Piglet, Eeyore, Christopher Robin and, of course, Pooh himself are both heart-warming and funny, teaching lessons of friendship and reflecting the power of a child's imagination like no other story before or since.Pooh ranks alongside other beloTrade Review‘Winnie-the-Pooh has always been a very special (albeit funny old) bear, not least of all because his books are filled with wonderful words of wisdom.', Stylist magazine

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Book SynopsisAn official lift-the-flap book for the BAFTA-winning show on CBeebies! Learn and play with the Numberblocks, monsters and friends! This fun lift-the-flap book helps young children to master key number skills, from adding and doubling to comparing and number patterns. All with the help of Numberland’s best beasts, naughtiest baddies and most terrific teams!

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Book SynopsisA wonderful collection of six of Shakespeare's best-loved plays, including Twelfth Night, A Midsummer Night's Dream, Hamlet, Macbeth, Romeo and Juliet and The Tempest as well as a short biography of the bard himself.Trade ReviewIncludes simple retellings of six of the plays and also provides useful background material about Shakespeare’s life and the history of the time. * The Guardian *A great book for every child's collection. * Parents in Touch Website *A wonderful collection. * Stratford-upon-Avon Herald *Even though all of the plays are written so that young readers can understand them, some of the more famous lines from Shakespeare's works can still be found. I am thoroughly impressed! * Bookworm Mama *With their usual creative flair and beautiful pictures, Usborne have recently published Illustrated Shakespeare which includes retellings of Twelfth Night, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Hamlet, Macbeth, Romeo and Juliet and the Tempest as well as a short biography of the Bard himself – the perfect way to open up Key Stage 2 children to his wonderful plays. * Family Interest *This is another super book in the Usborne Illustrated Stories series... a marvellous introduction to Shakespeare. Each play is introduced with a summary (and pictures) of the characters, so they can be followed throughout the story. Twelfth Night, Macbeth, The Tempest, Hamlet, Midsummer Night's Dream and Romeo and Juliet are included. The use of extracts from the original work gives children a feel for Shakespeare's language without being daunting. A great book for every child's collection. * Parents in Touch Website *Table of Contents1 Twelfth Night2 Romeo and Juliet3 The Tempest4 A Midsummer Night's Dream5 Macbeth6 Hamlet7 The Life and Times of William Shakespeare

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Book SynopsisEnter the adorkable world of Nikki Maxwell as she tells all about her not-so-fabulous life in the international bestselling series Dork Diaries!

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Book SynopsisPeck, hop, flap and make some noise in this story full of colour, rhyme and feathered friends now in paperback!Flap your wings, fly up high, open your beak and sing in this fun action rhyme story about fantastical birds by multi-award-winning author Lucy Cousins. Can you imagine ... just for one day ... you''re a busy bird? Yes, a bird! Hooray! Can you stand on one leg like a flamingo or waddle like a penguin? How about say cock-a-doodle-doo!, tuwit-tuwoo and even tra-la-la? What a busy day you will have! A bouncy read-aloud book to be enjoyed; beautifully illustrated with bold, bright colours and packed with all sorts of wild and wonderful birds!Trade Review“Beautifully illustrated with bold, bright colours and packed with all sorts of bold, bright colours and packed with all sorts of wild and wonderful birds […] the perfect read-aloud book to be enjoyed by young and old […]” * Surrey Advertiser *“Best-selling Lucy Cousins‘s boldly drawn birds inspire the imagination as she illustrates the wonderful things that different kinds of birds can do. Lively, colourful birds fill each page beautifully as she illustrates them flying, hopping, pecking, swooping, singing and running in a charming book that leads perfectly to bedtime.” – February 2017 Book of the Month * LoveReading, Julia Eccleshare *“[…] a picture book aviary of brilliantly painted plumage. Full of funny instructions (“Say ‘Hello, darling!’ Then swoop like a starling”), it’s a riotous, interactive, zingingly colourful book – perfect to share with the very young.” * The Guardian *“This fantastically bold book will have little ones jumping, flapping, swooping and singing along as they learn all about these beautiful feathered friends.” * Little London *“A bouncy read-aloud book to be enjoyed; beautifully illustrated with bold, bright colours and packed with all sorts of wild and wonderful birds.” * Gift Focus *

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Book SynopsisLet your imagination run riot and laughter fill your belly as you explore this book of poems from former Children's Laureate Michael Rosen. Discover traditional poems, rhymes with a twist, and subversive playground favourites in this playful treasure chest of verse. This is the perfect book for young readers to dive into the world of poetry and a great read-aloud with friends of family.Trade ReviewMichael Rosen is a poet with a superb ear for the rhythms of language * Guardian *One of our most popular writers - the champion for every bored, overdrilled, tested-to-tears pupil in the land * The Times *I think poetry for children needs to be saved from the cold dissection of right and wrong answers and put back into rooms and halls full of wonder, compassion, haunting, laughter, music and rhythm. We need to hear its many cultures, many voices, many sounds. This is about wide and diverse participation. Diverse verse for all! * Michael Rosen, Children's Laureate 2007-2009 *One of our most popular writers - the champion for every bored, overdrilled, tested-to-tears pupil in the land * The Times *

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Book SynopsisFrom acclaimed writer Jacqueline Woodson, comes this empowering tale about embracing difference and celebrating what makes you YOU.

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Book SynopsisHow I Live Now meets Exodus – a startling YA dystopia that imagines London as the epicentre of the refugee crisis, from critically acclaimed author Clare Furniss.   Civil unrest in London has reached an all-time high after years of a growing authoritarian regime, and it’s no longer safe for Clem and her half-sister Billie in the city. Clem tells of their treacherous journey to Scotland, by road and then by sea, fleeing with nothing but a notebook filled with stories and memories of home. But is there something Clem's not saying? And how will this journey – and the sisters’ story – end? With the start of a new life? Or a mirror held up to the past?PRAISE FOR THE THINGS WE LEAVE BEHIND: ‘A frighteningly remarkable, relevant and moving novel, told gently and with impeccable style. Clare Furniss is one of the very best writers for young people

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Book SynopsisEnter a magical world where unicorns sleep under starry skies, graze in sunny meadows, fly around a majestic rainbow and roam the garden of an ice castle. With over 250 stickers of unicorns, flowers and other adorable creatures, including 80 extra-special sparkly stickers to decorate the pages.

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Book Synopsis"What you leave behind / Won't leave your mind. / But home is where you find it. / Home is where you find it."Former Children's Laureates Michael Rosen and Sir Quentin Blake join forces for a landmark new collection, focusing on migration and displacement. Michael’s poems are divided into four: in the first series, he draws on his childhood as part of a first-generation Polish family living in London; in the second, on his perception of the War as a young boy; in the third, on his “missing” relatives and the Holocaust; and in the fourth, and final, on global experiences of migration. By turns charming, shocking and heart-breaking, this is an anthology with a story to tell and a powerful point to make: “You can only do something now.”Trade ReviewEnhanced by timeless pen and ink drawings from fellow former Children’s Laureate, Quentin Blake, this is a deeply moving, enduring poetry collection. In an insightful introduction, Rosen describes migration as an intrinsic part of human history, which has led to the development of richly diverse societies around the world. * BookTrust *Blake’s haunting drawings complement Rosen’s compelling words beautifully in this very accessible volume. * The Independent *Best: Powerful anthology.The prolific Michael Rosen joined forces with fellow former children’s laureate Sir Quentin Blake to produce this powerful book of poems about migration. […] Blake’s haunting drawings complement Rosen’s compelling words beautifully in this very accessible volume. * The Independent *[...] powerful collection of poems * Bookseller *At once commemorative, historical, political and celebratory, Michael’s poems herein have a straightforward power that is echoed in Quentin Blake’s black and white illustrations that have a haunting quality of their own. * Red Reading Hub *

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Book SynopsisAn adapted and illustrated edition of the Russian classic, at an easy-to-read level for all ages! Anna Karenina appears to have the perfect life. Young and beautiful, she lives in a fashionable house in Moscow with her respected husband and their young son. But Anna is deeply unhappy. Her older husband bores her, and she misses the lively city she grew up in. Then Count Vronsky, a dashing young officer, invites her to dance at a ball. Will Anna protect the comfortable life she has, or risk it all for forbidden love? About The Easy Classics Epic 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+.Trade ReviewI loved this adaptation and illustration. Maybe it was set for small kids, but I really enjoyed it as an adult. I have always wanted to read Anna Karenina but was so afraid to commit to it due to its length. I am so happy I read this adaptation. -- Prasanthi., PathiyilprasanthiEasy and fast to read, and I really applaud the attempt at getting Russian literature, and classics in general, into children's hands. -- Cassie., @TheBookSandwichA super easy to read and illustrated adaption of the Russian Classic Anna Karenina! This was a short and sweet version that captured some of the main events and points of the original story. It’s a great read for anyone looking for a simplified version and even has gorgeous artwork in it! -- Ashley D., ReviewerThis was a lovely adaptation of Anna Karenina. The illustrations are beautifully done. I thought the story is accessible to any reader, young and old. A great intro into Anna Karenina was very informative and left out the right bits for a young reader. -- Sadie C., BooksellerAdapted Anna Karenina as an easy-to-read, children's book. It has some illustrations in it that are pretty! It is super easy to read and a quick one to read as well. Loved being able to read a classic in a shorter book (only 120) pages. -- Delilah J., ReviewerThe classic tale of Anna Karenina is adapted for younger audiences by Gemma Barder captures all the drama and emotions of Tolstoy's original masterpiece. This adaptation is a condensed version made for middle-grade readers with attractive cartoon-like illustrations. You are transported back in time to Russia and all of its social etiquette and gossip. I enjoy this version of the book better than the original because it isn't as lengthy as the characters can be very numerous and complex. I had been very curious as to how they would portray the ending, since it was adapted for a younger audience and was pleasantly surprised at how tastefully they did it, maintaining all the emotion and tear-jerks of the original. I highly recommend this book for not just younger readers, but people who enjoy the classics that might not want to read such a lengthy novel. -- Bridget B., ReviewerThis part of a really super series for younger readers; it covers several of the great Russian classics and brings them alive to a very young audience. Even as an adult I appreciated the broad story framework that will enable me to try the full version again... The illustrations bring the story to life and provide a setting for the action, helping make the story accessible to less able readers. -- Margaret P., LibrarianThe children adaptation of the classic "Anna Karenina" was very well made: easy to understand, and with absolutely gorgeous illustrations!...There were quite a few characters but it was still fine to keep track of them, especially since they are explained in the first few pages. Overall, a good book that I enjoyed reading! -- Camille L., ReviewerAnna Karenina is part of the publishers new ‘The Russian Classics Collection for Children’. As such it has been suitably adapted for readers aged 7 and older. I found the illustrations by Helen Panayi adorable. I had been a little concerned about how Anna’s end would be covered given the intended age of its readers. Still, as with other adaptations for children, it was approached sensitively in terms of the cause of her death. I am in complete favour of introducing young readers to the Russian classics, which can appear formidable even to adults. I certainly feel that this book (and series) will be of interest to parents, educators, and librarians as well as to older readers, who might wish an easy introduction to this classic novel. -- Vivienne O., Reviewer

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book SynopsisHow the cat purred and how the witch grinned,As they sat on their broomstick and flew through the wind.A very funny story of quick wits and friendship, Room on the Broom is another smash hit from the unparalleled picture book partnership of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, creators of The Gruffalo.The witch and her cat fly happily over forests, rivers and mountains on their broomstick until a stormy wind blows away the witch's hat, bow and wand. Luckily, they are retrieved by a dog, a bird and a frog, who are all keen for a ride on the broom. It's a case of the more, the merrier, but the broomstick isn't used to such a heavy load and it's not long before . . . SNAP! It breaks in two! And with a greedy dragon looking for a snack, the witch's animal pals better think fast!This handy board book format is perfect for younger readers. It features the classic story with a stunning redesigned cover and beautiful finish, making it a must-have for even the smallest Donaldson and Scheffler fans! Also available in board book format and with striking redesigned covers are: The Gruffalo, The Gruffalo's Child, The Snail and the Whale, The Smartest Giant in Town, Monkey Puzzle, Charlie Cook's Favourite Book, and A Squash and a Squeeze.Trade ReviewRoom On The Broom is as fabulous a picture book as you'd expect from the team that brought you The Gruffalo. It hits all the right notes, with its strong sense of rhyme, a familiar element of repetition, interesting characters, and a nice plot twist at the end. Axel Scheffler's illustrations are as glorious as ever. There's nothing to knock. * The Book Bag *Written in rhyme in true Julia Donaldson style, this is yet another story that will engage young children. * Toppsta *

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Book SynopsisPRE-ORDER WISTERIA NOW, THE HEART-POUNDING, HUGELY ROMANTIC FINALE TO BELLADONNA''A deliciously deadly Gothic romance'' STEPHANIE GARBER ''Secrets, curses, mystery, romance, and Death!'' JENNIFER ARMENTROUT''Decadently atmospheric'' KERRI MANISCALCO The dangerous, seductive and suspenseful New York Times bestselling sequel to the Gothic fantasy romance Belladonna. A duke has been murdered. The lord of Thorn Grove has been framed. And Fate, the elusive brother of Death, has taken up residence in a sumptuous estate nearby. He''s hellbent on revenge after Death took the life of the woman he loved many years ago . . . and now he''s determined to have Signa for himself, no matter the cost. Signa and her cousin Blythe are certain that Fate can save Elijah Hawthorne from prison if they will entertain his presence. But the more time the girls spend with Fate, the more frighte

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Book SynopsisWhen the crown jewels go missing from Kennel Palace, it’s up to super-sleuth Sherlock Bones and his trusty sidekick Dr Catson to solve the crime. But with multiple suspects and a trail that’s starting to run cold, will they be able to catch the culprit in time? The first book in a brand-new Sherlock Bones mystery fiction series, this fun puzzle adventure contains over 30 games – such as mazes, search games and silhouette matches – that are woven into the action, so the reader can feel immersed in the exciting detective plot and help Bones and Catson solve the mystery.Trade ReviewA good romp of a mystery * The School Librarian *A very interesting concept, slightly reminiscent of the 'Choose your own Adventure' books. This will appeal to key stage 2 readers, especially those who may have reading difficulties and encourages collaboration among readers, with one reading the story and the other solving the puzzles. * The School Librarian on ‘Sherlock Bones and the Curse of the Pharaoh’s Mask’ *

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Book SynopsisThe Jolly Phonics Workbooks are perfect for practising phonics skills. Covering the 42 letter sounds of English, these books provide a wealth of material for children to practise their reading and writing skills. Each sound is presented with a simple story and action, a letter formation guide and a section for writing practice. Engaging exercises and fun activities allow children to apply their phonic knowledge in reading and spelling regular words, as well as some 'tricky' words with irregular spellings. Each of the seven books helps children develop their phonic skills further, Each of the seven books helps children develop their phonic skills further, moving from simply letter-sound recognition and letter formation early on to moving from simply letter-sound recognition and letter formation early on to reading sentences and writing short phrases in the later books. These refreshed editions are the same as the previous editions in terms of number of pages, pagination and core content, but have been enhanced with: * Alignment of the core teaching materials (specifically Pupil Book 1 and Step 1 of Jolly Phonics for the Whiteboard) so that they cover the same ground in the first term * 15% new material, alongside fresh new cover artwork, action icons and some new and updated images * New dotted font for writing practice, alongside improved letter formation guides and sequencing of activities

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Book SynopsisLift the flaps and join in the fun with this bestselling preschool classic, Hide-and-Seek Pig by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, creators of The Gruffalo. Pig and Hen are playing hide-and-seek. But where on earth could Hen be? Can you lift the flaps and help Pig find out where Hen is hiding?With sturdy flaps on every spread and rhyming stories that are a joy to read aloud, the Tales from Acorn Wood series has been delighting both parents and toddlers for over twenty years.Discover more stories in the Tales from Acorn Wood series: Fox's Socks, Rabbit's Nap and Postman Bear, Cat's Cookbook, Squirrel's Snowman, Mole's Spectacles and Badger's Band. Look out for new Acorn Wood story Dormouse Has a Cold.

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Book SynopsisMore diary entries and doodles from Nikki's not-so-fabulous life, in the tenth instalment of the phenomenally successful Dork Diaries series.

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Book SynopsisLearn about the amazing natural science of trees in this illustrated nature and science book for kids aged 7-9.From the highest branch and leaf down to the complex wood wide web of roots, it''s no wonder every part of a tree plays an important role in its own growth and the habitat of the whole forest or woodland. The Magic & Mystery of Trees is a nature book that takes children on a fascinating journey of exploration, showing them just how special these mighty organisms are.Did you know that trees can communicate with each other and warn each other predators? Or that they can record the past, and anticipate the future to ensure their survival? Dive deep into the pages of this nature book for kids to discover exactly how trees nurture their networks, and explore extraordinary trees from all around the world. Explore the pages of this terrific book on trees to discover: -Groundbreaking explanations on the science of tree communicatTrade ReviewA really wonderful book to inspire a generation to love, protect and respect trees. * Juno *[A] gorgeously illustrated nature and science book. * The Green Parent *

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Book SynopsisWINNER of the Irish Book Awards Children’s Book of the Year 2012 and the Honour Award for Illustration from Childrens' Books Ireland, 2013. An exquisite new book, featuring a boy and his moose, from internationally bestselling, multi-prize-winning picture book creator, Oliver Jeffers.Trade ReviewPraise for This Moose Belongs to Me:‘As ever, Jeffers’s illustrations delight, inspire and susprise with their variety and ingenuity.’ The Guardian ‘A charming little gem’ The Telegraph Praise for Stuck:‘Brilliantly silly’ The Telegraph Praise for The Incredible Book Eating Boy:‘Mouth-wateringly irresistible’ The Guardian

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Book SynopsisEverywhere Dave goes, his favourite toy, Dogger, is ALWAYS with him.So, when Dogger goes missing, Dave is devastated. Luckily, Dogger turns up at the school summer fair, but when he ends up at the toy stall, Dave must find a way to buy his best friend back.With a heart warming message and delightful illustrations, Dogger has delighted children for generations. This gentle bedtime story is perfect for young readers."For a blast of pure nostalgia, look no further than Dogger. This timeless classic tells the tale of the love a little boy, Dave, has for his teddy. The illustrations are wonderfully warm, and the language and turn of phrase is like a big hug in story form" - The Evening StandardLoved Dogger? Discover: Lucy and Tom at the SeasideLucy and Tom at SchoolAlfie Gives a HandThe Lion and the UnicornTrade ReviewThis is Hughes' most heartwarming picture book . . . Hughes has a kindly, inexhaustible eye - she misses nothing . . . Her drawing is invariably superb and usually describes a reassuring world for chidlren - sometimes happier-than-thou. She has illustrated more than 200 titles - she is a virtuoso * Observer *Shirley Hughes is a national treasureDelightful * Financial Times *A heart-warming story . . . Shirley Hughes' warm and deceptively simple story is a perennial favourite among children and experts alike * Psychologies Magazine *There are certain books that should be in every family's library and Dogger is certainly one of them * Books for Children *

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Book SynopsisEnter a world of superheroes and villains in this action-packed comic caper from No.1 bestselling author David Walliams and meet Robodog: the future of crime fighting!Welcome to the city of Bedlam. Enter if you dare!Bedlam is one of the most dangerous places on Earth home to a host of wicked villains. Nothing and nobody is safe from these evil criminals. The city needs its own superhero to defeat the supervillains. But who?Robodog!He's the newest recruit at the Police Dog School, and supercharged for adventure. But can he stop the most feared duo in Bedlam, and their evil plans to ruin the city . . .?

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book SynopsisIt is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities' Albus DumbledoreHarry Potter can't wait for his holidays with the dire Dursleys to end. But a small, self-punishing house-elf warns Harry of mortal danger awaiting him at Hogwarts. Returning to the castle nevertheless, Harry hears a rumour about a Chamber of Secrets, holding unknown horrors for wizards of Muggle parentage. Then students are found as though turned to stone, and a terrible warning is discovered painted on the wall. The chief suspect always in the wrong place is Harry. But something much darker has yet to be unleashed.These adult editions have been stylishly redesigned to showcase Andrew Davidson's beautiful woodcut cover artwork.Trade ReviewAnd you thought wizardry was for children. Harry Potter will make you think again. He casts his spells on grown-ups too * James Naughtie *Funny, imaginative, magical … In the 2020s, thirty-something book-lovers will know each other by smug references to Diagon Alley and Quidditch * The Times *Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, unlike many sequels, is as good as its predecessor … Hogwarts is a creation of genius * Times Literary Supplement *One of the greatest literary adventures of modern times * Sunday Telegraph *Spellbinding, enchanting, bewitching stuff * Mirror *

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Book SynopsisAven Green, the remarkable heroine of Dusti Bowling's Life of a Cactus series, marches to her own beat in this hilarious, upbeat, and unforgettable chapter book. Bowling's beloved Life of a Cactus protagonist returns in a new series of chapter books that capture her life as third grader. . . . Young readers will laugh aloud at Aven's funny reactions . . . [and] they will be intrigued by the practical skills she has perfected. . . . This chapter book companion to Bowling's well-loved middle-grade series is a recommended purchase.School Library Journal (Starred review) Third-grader Aven Green is a real professional musician! She just needs to choose what instrument to play. When she decides to try the piano, Aven is disappointed when she can't master Mozart in one whole day. To pick up Aven's beat, her parents take her for a four-hour drive to see someone just like her play the guitar. With new inspiration and a special gift from her great-grandma, Aven is ready to take on the school

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Book SynopsisHer parents' divorce has Maaryah bidding bye-bye to Dubai and her life of luxury . . . and hello to dreary London, where things get . . . complicated. There are house parties, annoying-yet-hot boys and the isolating reality of being the only hijabi in a massive school. Can Maaryah stay true to herself, even when another bombshell rocks her world . . . ?

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Book SynopsisLook back at an amazing year in football with the No.1 football series - over 3 million copies sold!

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Book SynopsisA dynamic and engaging picture book about living with ADHD! Written by someone with ADHD, this book explores a world through hyperfocus, the need to constantly move and so much more.

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Book SynopsisThe Owl and the Cactus by Hannah Dawn Gold is an illustrated tale of exploration and friendship for children who are setting out on their own adventures in life. This light-hearted story follows the adventures of a very small owl, as he takes his first tentative flight in his desert home, encounters challenges and eventually finds his way home. In a big world, sometimes things can go wrong for even the bravest explorer. When Owl finds himself in need of help, he discovers that everyone is important, including people who are quiet, shy and could be easy to pass by, because ‘Even the smallest people can know important things!’ Sometimes when we’re whizzing around in excitement, chasing the next achievement, we can overlook what’s around us. In a busy world, even young children can sometimes feel pressure. The Owl and the Cactus gently guides readers to understand that it is good to try new things, getting caught up in the thrill of success and it is also fine to stop, take a breath when we need to and ask for help. The wish to explore and grow is encouraged and supported in this book, balanced with the lesson that sometimes growing up can be challenging and the world can be a scary place when things aren’t going our way, but when we are willing to listen, even to those who seem different to us then friendship can be found at any moment, even when we think we are alone. The young owl’s first flight introduces the natural world to children as a home to be appreciated, not just rushed past. As the youngster finds his confidence, he discovers that nature can show us valuable things. Hannah writes, ‘I will tell you a secret about all living things, it may help you to know, when finding your wings! The wind, the moon, the stars and stones, all are telling the story of our wild desert home. All of them have something to say, if you ask them and listen, they will show you the way.’ While Owl finds out about looking at the sky, his discoveries open the idea that the stars can show us where we are going. Something children can use to begin a learning journey of their own if they wish, or just smile at the safe return of the owl to his home. As a visually pleasing story about a lovable character, The Owl and the Cactus will have broad appeal to children of differing reading capabilities. Children starting on their reading journeys are sure to find the imagery and fun factor pleasing and can use this book to develop their reading skills. More capable readers can enjoy the layers of meaning that provide on-going learning opportunities. The writing style offers both ease of reading, with rhymes and short sentences, together with some more challenging words and concepts to keep minds occupied and hold interest into the future. This is a book that you can enjoy with your little ones, which will help them grow, while chuckling together about the antics of the very small owl. It will be a favourite on the bookshelf for years to come! Hannah’s illustrations provide a rich visual backdrop depicting the young explorer and the range of creatures he encounters on his travels. The Owl and the Cactus is an ideal story to inspire the confidence of young readers in making friends and finding their own wings. With varied additional activities to stimulate interest, there is plenty here to occupy young minds. The full colour pictures and fun, rhyming style make this book suitable for a wide range of children with different reading levels as it provides both visual and auditory enjoyment, different types of learning opportunities and a positive approach to overcoming difficulties. After all, ‘You’re never too small to know how to fly!’

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Book SynopsisTarn grapples with the loss of her brother at Dunkirk as she faces the threat of Nazi invasion in the Cumbrian countryside in this gripping wartime tale from Tom Palmer.July 1940 as Tarn struggles to come to terms with the loss of her beloved brother in the chaos of the British retreat at Dunkirk, she and her friends scour the hills around their Lake District home, watching for any signs of the long-dreaded Nazi invasion.But as the war drags on, with little good news from the front, the locals become aware of someone carrying out anonymous acts of kindness, such as saving a flock of sheep from a snowdrift and getting help for an injured farmer who might otherwise have died.With no one claiming credit, they come to think of this unidentified stranger as a kind of guardian angel, but when his identity is finally revealed, can Tarn come to terms with the truth?

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Book SynopsisJulia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler's picture book, Superworm (9781407132358,is now available as a chunky board-book. Superworm's here! He can fish Spider out of a well, and rescue Toadfrom a busy road. But who will come to Superworm's rescue, whenhe's captured by Wizard Lizard? Luckily, Superworm's insect friendshave a cunning plan...

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