Walker Books

Book SynopsisAn irreverent and zany counting book that is gently thrilling and written in a deliciously infectious rhyme with witty and whimsical illustrations.Ten very foolish teachers have missed the last bus home. But LOOK – a shortcut through the forest! They'll be back in time for tea! Off they skip, unaware that in the woods a hungry horde of mischievous and hilariously goofy monsters is waiting… An irreverent and zany counting book that is gently thrilling with witty and whimsical illustrations.Trade Reviewwonderfully irreverent counting rhyme; a playfully wicked back-to-school alternative * The Bookseller *The illustrations are bold and beautiful and he loves to spot the hidden monster! * Books Up North *glorious rhyming counting book is the perfect combination of hilarious bold illustration and runaway bouncing text – with a witty twist at the end * The Daily Mail *Every library and classroom should have a copy of this amusing, cheeky picture book. As I read this book." * Just Imagine *

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Book SynopsisA hardworking duck is rescued from life with a lazy farmer in this award-winning picture book classic from Owl Babies author, Martin Waddell, and Bear Hunt illustrator, Helen Oxenbury.In this Kate Greenaway Medal and Kurt Maschler Award-winning modern classic, two of the most celebrated picture book creators of our time tell the story of a hardworking duck, who has the very bad luck of living with a lazy farmer. The duck cooks and cleans, tends the fields and cares for the other animals on the farm and all while the famer lies in bed! That is until the day the animals decide to take action ... and come to the rescue with a simple, but heroic plan.Trade ReviewThis book will be bought for years. * The Independent on Sunday *Marvellously expressive pictures and a satisfying text make this the outstanding picture book of the year. * The Sunday Times *Helen Oxenbury’s illustrations speak volumes… They’re a perfect match for Martin Waddell’s equally excellent text. * Books for Keeps *

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Book SynopsisStarting school can be a great adventure, but it can make you feel a bit nervous too. This is the perfect book to reassure any new school-starter.What will school be like? What will we do there? What if I miss Mummy? Do I have to go?Jane Porter answers all of these questions and more in this warm, witty and reassuring book for young children that explores everything they'll need to know before starting school. Marley, Maya, Theo, Akiko, Ella and Zakir are all getting ready to start school. Why not come along with them and see what it’s like? Illustrated with charming characters by Carolina Rabei, this is the perfect introduction to joining a new class.Trade Reviewa warm and accessible practical guide to help prepare children for their first day * The Bookseller *

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Book SynopsisK-pop meets Freaky Friday in a hilarious body swap adventure for 8+ readers from Costa-winning author Luan Goldie, perfect for fans of Jenny Pearson and David Solomons.When 11-year-old K-pop obsessed Skylar inexplicably switches bodies with her super strict 71-year-old headteacher, Ms Callus, she's thrown into a hilarious world of dancing old ladies gone viral and school rules thrown out the window, as she tries to figure out how on earth to swap back! But then the chance to meet her favourite boyband AZ8 in real life changes everything, and Skylar must decide whether her K-pop dream come true is worth risking being stuck as an old lady for everSinging with laugh-out-loud moments, this is a joyful and uplifting tale of friendship, fandom and chasing your dreams.PRAISE FOR SKYLAR AND THE K-POP HEADTEACHER:This ''Freaky Friday''-esque adventure is packed full with laugh-out-loud jokes about generational misunder

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Book SynopsisJoin in the bear hunt with this fabulous sticker activity book, based on the classic picture book by Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury.For 25 years, readers have chanted along with this award-winning favourite. Join in the fun with this jam-packed book full of puzzles, activities and stickers! Little ones will be absorbed for hours with this sticker book filled with engaging activities. Spot the difference, join the dots, matching pairs, bear hunts and more make this a perfect book to take on holiday or fill rainy days. You can even complete sticker jigsaws and play a bear hunt board game! Helen Oxenbury's beautiful illustrations are as enchanting here as in the beloved original, and Michael Rosen's brilliantly rhythmic words provide the inspiration for every exciting activity. For all things bear hunt, visit jointhebearhunt.com

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Book SynopsisThe first book in a hilarious, jam-packed new adventure series starring Scooter the inventor and his top secret alien sidekick.Scooter McLay's cerebral palsy affects how quickly he can move his body, but his hyper-creative brain is a constant fizz of brilliant ideas. He spends every day inventing top secret recipes and machines for his family's jam factory. There's just one thing missing ... a pet, to share it all with. Or better still, a friend. When a tiny alien named Fizzbee crashes through the factory window, she might just be the answer. Now it's all hands on deck, as they team up to save the factory from dastardly neighbour Daffy Dodgy.Trade ReviewAn Alien in the Jam Factory is a humorous and fun-filled read. * The Scotsman *

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Book SynopsisCelebrate thirty years of the Large family in this stunning anniversary edition of a modern picture book classic.If you are not familiar with these stories, you really have not lived ... you just couldn''t get better Guardian A stunning 30th anniversary edition of a family picture book favourite, this is the story of Mrs Large the elephant who just needs five minutes of peace and quiet away from her boisterous children! So, taking refuge in the bathroom, she fills herself a hot, foamy bubble bath and takes in a tray of her favourite breakfast and the morning paper. But there's never a dull moment with the Larges, and it soon becomes clear that mum''s quiet time is to be very short-lived! Family life is beautifully observed in this warm and funny modern classic from Jill Murphy, one of Britain''s most treasured author-illustrators.Trade ReviewThirtieth anniversary edition of the astutely observed Large family classic, well timed for Mother’s Day purchases. -- Fiona Noble * The Bookseller *It works because it is such a familiar scenario to both parent and toddler. * Families Magazine *I am sure I’m not alone in rating this as one of my all-time favourite picture books. Mummy elephant is someone we can all identify with. * Angels & Urchins *Mothering Sunday is nearly upon us and no other series has ever quite captured the highs and lows of parenthood as effectively as Jill Murphy’s Large Family series. […] Murphy’s shrewd observations and her knack for recreating the chaotic yet loving warm and loving environment of family life will resonate with all members of the family. It is simple, funny, heartwarming , relatable and it never gets old; the sure signs of a true classic. * Library Mice *A tale that parents everywhere can relate to […] and with the release of this beautifully illustrated special edition, no doubt many more children and parents will fall in love with the Large family. * Cornwall Living *Mrs Large’s endeavours to find five minutes peace will resonate with parents across the country in this lovely book by Cornish author Jill Murphy. * MuddyStilletos *

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Book SynopsisA subversive, funny and deliciously prickly! tale for the young reader looking for a book with bite. Written in verse by former Waterstones Children''s Laureate Joseph Coelho and illustrated by Freya Hartas.Eshe and her twelve sisters are Fairy Godmothers, honoured for the incredible gifts they can bestow. But Eshe's special abilities are a little different she can glimpse into the future! And, one day, Eshe foresees something terrifying: a world blanketed in creeping vines and a girl covered in thorns. Eshe needs to stop her vision becoming true, but it will require old and powerful magic. And she won't be able to do it aloneFollowing on from Zombierella and Frankenstiltskin, this is the third and final book in a deliciously dark trilogy of twisted classics, written in verse by the winner of the Yoto Carnegie Medal for Writing Joseph Coelho and illustrated by Freya Hartas.Trade ReviewCreeping Beauty is a wonderful creepy, gripping twisted fairy tale […] Written in verse this book is funny, dark and you just won’t want to put it down. * Little Blog of Library Treasures *Dreadfully dark and brilliantly subversive, Joseph’s decidedly prickly twisted take on Sleeping Beauty is, like Zombierella and Frankenstiltskin, absolutely awesome. Long live the power of love and friendship. Freya Hartas’ wonderful black and white illustrations are in turn eerily eye-catching or cleverly comical. * Red Reading Hub *I loved Zombierella and Frankenstiltskin and I can report that Creeping Beauty is just as fascinating to read. The layout is as mesmerising as ever and Freya’s illustrations are stunning. I read this so quickly as it feels so familiar yet equally has its own unique flair to make this fairytale so original. It’s definitely a fresher take on Sleeping Beauty with the power of teamwork and friendship at its heart. * Check 'Em Out Books *This twist on Sleeping Beauty is absorbing, original and deliciously magical. * BookTrust *featured in a list of ‘Halloween reads for ages 7+' * Library Girl and Book Boy *

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Book SynopsisFrom the dynamic, dream team of Jon Klassen and Mac Barnett comes the final instalment in the hilarious shape trilogy.Simple shapes and succinct story express big ideas. Makes us consider fear of strangers, the power of the imagination, being brave and standing by friends Sunday TimesTriangle and Square are visiting Circle, who lives at the waterfall. When they play hide-and-seek, Circle tells the friends the one rule: not to go behind the falling water. But after she closes her eyes to count to ten, of course that''s exactly where Triangle goes. Will Circle find Triangle? And what OTHER shapes might be lurking back there?Trade Review“An elegant picture book in which simple shapes and succinct story express big ideas. Here a game of hide-and-seek makes us consider, for starters, fear of strangers, the power of the imagination, being brave and standing by friends.” * The Sunday Times *“Clever and extremely funny.” * The Bookseller, Children’s March Previews *“[…] every bit as funny and stylish as its predecessors.” * Mini Travellers *“This is a lovely book to read at bedtime. The use of shapes as characters really keeps children engaged, and the mystery towards the end of the book encourages children to use their imagination. Even as an adult I found myself wanted to know more about what was going on! I didn’t expect a mystery in a children’s picture book!” * Me, Him, The Dog, And the Baby *

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Book SynopsisA hilarious novelty book about a quick-thinking child and a soft-hearted beast, with funny letters and comically disgusting recipes to open.Beast has found a tasty dinner, and he''s written to all his friends to invite them to a feast. Unfortunately, Dinner is a child who very much does not want to be eaten. As Beast''s friends send their instructions for cooking Dinner, is there any way Dinner can convince Beast to change his menu? A vibrant and charming interactive book with hilarious letters to open.PRAISE FOR BEAST FEASTLetter-flaps to lift, delicious and disgusting dishes, and the development of an unlikely friendship combine to create a riotous picture book party. The Guardian ReviewThis contribution to the genre, with RSVPs from Sir Gutguzzler and co, is a hoot. Independent readers should also enjoy the gruesome recipes on the endsheets. The ObserverThose dreading seasonal overindulgence can

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Book SynopsisThe Where''s Wally? series has sold over 75 million copies worldwide.Start the search for Wally in the original eye-boggling classic activity book!The original book which kick-started the worldwide Wally phenomenon! Search for Wally and his friends as they hike round the world - on the beach, at the train station, at sea ... They''re fiendishly hidden in every intricately-detailed scene - and there are lots of other things to look for too. Hours of fun and games await.Trade ReviewObsessively irrestistible. -- Julia Eccleshare * The Bookseller *There’s no dismissing our Wally as a face in the crowd -- Junior * Junior *

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Book SynopsisOnce, there were two best friends. One was from the sea, a mermaid named Merrin, and one was from the land, a human named Molly.Merrin has never been to Molly's house; how can she visit when she is a mermaid, and has to stay underwater? But then comes the night of the Mermaid Moon, when sea creatures can fly through the air! And this year, Merrin is finally old enough to join in. Together, she and Molly visit the Mermaid Moon festival, eat ice cream, and ride on a swing in Molly's garden. But trouble arises when it is time for Merrin to leave. If she doesn't get back home before the moon sets, the Mermaid Moon magic will disappear from the earth forever...In this magical picture book perfect for all young mermaid lovers, two best friends one who lives on land, the other in the water share an exciting adventure on the night of the Mermaid Moon: the one time each year mermaids can leave the sea.

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Book SynopsisA new look for the popular slipcase containing mini editions of the first five classic Where''s Wally? titles.A new generation of Where''s Wally? fans can join in the hunt for our well-loved spectacled friend. Finding Wally is never easy, but the challenge has been made even greater with these mini paperbacks. Luckily the accompanying Wally magnifier (with striped handle) will help in the search for Wally and the hundreds of other things to spot. Five adventures are featured: Where's Wally?, Where's Wally Now?, Where's Wally? The Fantastic Journey, Where's Wally? In Hollywood, Where's Wally? The Wonder Book. So grab a magnifying glass the super-hard search is on!

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Book SynopsisThey may have been swallowed, but they have no intention of being eaten... A new comedy from the unparalleled team of Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen.A subversive delight ... an unexpected, hilarious collaboration GuardianEarly one morning a mouse met a wolf and was quickly gobbled up...When a woeful mouse is swallowed up by a wolf, he quickly learns he is not alone: a duck has already set up digs and, boy, has that duck got it figured out! Turns out it's pretty nice inside the belly of the beast there''s delicious food, elegant table settings and, best of all, dancing. And there's something more: no more fear of being eaten by a wolf! Life''s not so bad, considering the alternatives. That is, until a hunter shows up... With a nod to traditional fables and a wink to the reader, the award-winning Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen of Sam and Dave Dig a Hole, Extra Yarn and Triangle offer a tale of cooperation and creativeTrade Review“The Wolf, the Duck and the Mouse by Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen is a subversive delight. […] The earthy darkness of the wolf’s interior contrasts with soft shades of moonlit forest in this unexpected, hilarious collaboration.” * The Guardian *A deliciously dark and completely absurd story... Told with devilish wit and illustrated with fearsome prowess this is contemporary fable telling at its very best. -- Booksniffer * WRD Magazie *Jon Klassen and Mac Barnett are a match made in picturebook heaven. […] it brilliantly champions the idea of the underdog […] A treat for adults and children alike. * The Irish Times *A hilarious and surreal story […] A witty lesson in how to make the most of disaster. * The Herald *As ever, Barnett and Klassen amusingly provoke readers to question apparent truths. Julia Eccleshare, LoveReading Pick of the Month * Julia Eccleshare, LoveReading Pick of the Month *

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Book SynopsisA captivating picture book retelling by Shakespeare's Globe for very young readers.William Shakespeare's comedy about mistaken identities and unrequited love in the far-off kingdom of Illyria is unforgettably re-imagined by Shakespeare's Globe as a picture book for very young readers. With exquisite and detailed illustrations from the acclaimed artist Jane Ray, who has previously been shortlisted for the Kate Greenaway Medal, this captivating retelling is a magical way to introduce children to one of the best-loved works of the world's greatest playwright.

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Book SynopsisFeast your eyeballs on this bedazzling book and start your children on a lifelong love of Shakespeare. The TimesIt's Shakespeare for children but in a radical new form the book is illustrated by Emily Sutton, who has supplied more than 150 ingeniously detailed watercolour drawings it's a rare delight to find a children's edition that leaves Shakespeare's language intact. The Daily Telegraph, 5 starsWhat a lovely treasure! A wonderful introduction to Shakespeare''s timeless plays. Greg Jenner, You''re Dead to MeThe first-ever illustrated children''s edition of William Shakespeare''s First Folio, published to celebrate its 400th anniversary a sumptuous gift book to treasure for ever.Published in association with the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, Shakespeare''s Plays is the first-ever illustrated children''s edition of the First Folio, one of the grea

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Book SynopsisDive into a celebration of all the wonderful things babies and toddlers get up to throughout a busy day in this joyful collection of poems by beloved children's author Mara Bergman.Baby wakes up early.What does Baby say?Good morning, World,I'm ready for another busy day!A perfect gift for children and grown-ups to share end enjoy together, Dear Little One celebrates the little things that make life with a toddler fun! From breakfast to bedtime, with plenty of playing and exploring, dancing and dreaming in between, this playful and charming anthology of poems for the youngest children is a treat to dip into, with beautiful, colourful illustrations throughout.

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Book SynopsisPerfect for children just learning to read, this highly original book is told entirely in speech bubbles with a repetitive use of familiar phrases. From the award-winning author of Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!Gerald is careful. Piggie is not.Piggie cannot help smiling. Gerald can.Gerald worries so that Piggie does not have to.Gerald and Piggie are best friends.In We Are In a Book! Gerald and Piggie discover the joys of being read. But what will happen when the book ends...? Mo Willems creates another hilarious escapade starring the award-winning duo that will have early readers breaking into laughter from the first page.Trade ReviewFun for anyone to read. -- Nicolette Jones * The Sunday Times *Brilliant, cleverly paced and absolutely bananas. * Red Reading Hub *

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Book SynopsisA new edition of master illustrator Anthony Browne''s first book, full of visual surprises.Toby is fed up. Fed up with books, fed up with toys, fed up with everything. But when he walks through the magic mirror, things are amazingly different. Toby can hardly believe his eyes! Anthony Browne''s first book is full of the surreal details and visual humour that have made him one of the world''s most popular and acclaimed picture book artists.Trade ReviewThe more you stare at these astonishing images, the more there is to amaze and amuse. * The Northern Echo *If you missed this the first time round, you must pick up a copy for your child - or yourself - now.... superbly funny and surreal. * Liverpool Echo *…highlights the illustrative talent of the current Children’s Laureate and is a real treat for young readers * The Sun *

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Book SynopsisFull of fun, What''s the time, Maisy? is a colourful, interactive introduction to telling the time with everyone''s favourite character.Each page of this colourful large-format board book has a die-cut window revealing a chunky, clunky clock with real hands and cogs that can be turned to show the time. At eight o''clock, Maisy gets up and decides what to wear; at ten o''clock she goes shopping, and at twelve o''clock she has lunch. New time-tellers can follow Maisy right the way through her day to bedtime at seven o''clock, turning the hands and telling the time with Maisy!Trade ReviewEnjoyable and educational for all ages. * New Baby *A fun, vibrant book with the added educational appeal of time-teaching. * Junior *

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Book SynopsisHow do you escape when you can''t see the way out?Sixteen-year-old Cheyenne Wilder is sleeping in the back of a car while her mother fills her prescription. Before Cheyenne realizes what has happened, the car is being stolen from the car park. Cheyenne is not only sick with pneumonia she is also blind. Griffin, the teenage driver, hadn''t meant to kidnap her he was just stealing a car for the gang. But once Griffin''s dad finds out that Cheyenne''s father is the president of Nike, everything changes now there''s a reason to keep her. Will Cheyenne be able to survive this harrowing ordeal, and escape? And if so, at what price?Trade ReviewA most enjoyable fast-paced read that will appeal to both boys and girls. * CBI recommended reads of 2012 *Once you get into it, you won’t want to stop! * Teen Titles *

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Book SynopsisCelebrate the 30th birthday of this classic story about a gentle chimp fed up of being bullied.Willy wouldn't hurt a fly he even apologizes when someone hits him. The suburban gorillas call him Willy the Wimp. Then, one day, Willy answers a body-building advert ... with hilarious results! Celebrate 30 years of the classic picture book in this special anniversary edition by multiple-award-winner Anthony Browne.Trade ReviewAnthony Browne is just so clever! I loved this book when I shared it with my own children and on re-reading, it has not lost an iota of its appeal. Adults will love the subtle humour in the pictures and text and children will come to appreciate the book more and more on each re-reading. The hilarious story subtly conveys an important message about looking beyond appearances and standing up to bullies. * Parents in Touch *Still looking good on the 30th anniversary of its publication, Willy The Wimp provides both an entertaining read and a lesson in life for younger children. * The Book Bag *

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Book SynopsisA skilfully suspenseful story with all the charm of Chichester Clark's picture books. The Daily TelegraphA captivating, illustrated young fiction novel about a kind girl and a lost bear cub, with a classic feel from the much-loved, award-winning author-illustrator.Are you brave enough to enter the Wild Bear Woods?Polly Pecorino rescues animals, and she can talk to them too. She spends all of her time caring for those at Happy Days Zoo, where the devious owners, Mr and Mrs Snell, will do anything to make money. One day they steal a bear cub, certain that he will do wonders for ticket sales, but the ferocious bears living in Wild Bear Woods want their cub back. Will Polly be brave enough to stand up to the Snells and take Booboo, the bear cub, back where he belongs?[G]o down to the woods for a gentle bear story This divinely illustrated book begs to become a series... Expect growls of approval. The Times, Children''Trade ReviewA skillfully suspenseful story with all the charm of Chichester Clark’s picture books. * The Daily Telegraph *It’s a book to entrance young readers with the perennially appealing idea of communicating with other species, and with the message that kindness can triumph. * The Sunday Times *[G]o down to the woods for a gentle bear story…This divinely illustrated book begs to become a series…I enjoyed this gentle story and found her illustrations divine: Mrs Snell is a perfectly sculpted, minimalist Cruella de Vil, the adult bears are fabulously fierce, the baby bears visually vulnerable. Expect growls of approval. * The Times *Full of enchanting illustrations, this is a lovely story of a kindly girl and a lost bear. * The Week Junior *A perfect book. Booboo is now one of my favorite bears, sitting right alongside Paddington and Winnie the Pooh. This story has lots and lots of heart. * Carlie Sorosiak *Heart-warming, quietly exciting, encouraging, thoughtful and most of all, charming; a wonderful story with a real classic feel. -- Mary Esther Judy * Fallen Star Stories Blog *This has a gorgeous cover design. * The Bookseller *A delightful, old-fashioned story about Polly, a girl who can talk to animals, her companion crow and her friendship with a baby bear in a zoo. It’s a book to entrance young readers with the perennially appealing idea of communicating with other species, and with the message that kindness can triumph. * The Sunday Times *Full of enchanting illustrations, this is a lovely story of a kindly girl and a lost bear. * The Week Junior *Beautifully written, with enchanting, delicate pencil illustrations by the author, this would make a magical book to share at bedtime. * The Irish Independent *An adorable first foray into younger fiction…with endearing black-and-white illustration throughout * The Guardian *a charming story…attractively produced * Books for Keeps *a fast-paced story, told with the unhurried charm of Chichester Clark’s picture books * The Daily Telegraph *

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Book SynopsisBring Florence to life with this beautiful three-dimensional Panorama Pop, featuring the city''s most famous sites.Remember Florence for ever with this exquisite three-dimensional expanding pocket guide. Presented in a beautiful slipcase, the guide unfolds to a length of 1.5 metres and features 12 of Florence''s most famous sites, including the Duomo, Baptistery, Square of Signoria, Ponte Vecchio, Uffizi Gallery, Basilica of Santa Croce, Bargello's Yard, Via Tornabuoni, Pitti Palace and Gardens of Boboli and San Miniato Al Monte. A perfect gift or souvenir for anyone wishing to remember a visit to the city.

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Book SynopsisA colourful lift-the-flap book of opposites to share with your baby.Who is the biggest, who is the tallest and who is the noisiest? Lift the flaps and find out in this colourful board book from acclaimed author/illustrator Petr Horacek.

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Book SynopsisFantasy at its best. The Daily TelegraphWith echoes of Susan Cooper, this has all the feel of a classic. Sarah BakerA masterfully written story surging with powerful energy. Sinéad O''HartAn enchanting magical adventure set in the wild moors of Dartmoor the second middle-grade novel from the author of Nevertell.Through the glass, the magic is waitingNona and her uncle travel everywhere together, replacing stained-glass windows in war-torn buildings. When a mysterious commission takes them to the lonely moors of Dartmoor, Nona discovers a wild and powerful magic which threatens everything. Can Nona protect those she loves even if it means fighting darkness itself?A beautifully imaginative and rich adventure about determination, courage and the power of love, set in the aftermath of World War Two. Perfect for fans of Abi Elphinstone, Sophie Anderson and Catherine Doyle.Praise for GlassheTrade ReviewFeatured in The Bookseller's November Previews. -- Fiona Noble * The Bookseller *Rich and atmospheric, Glassheart feels like a long-lost folktale brimming with ghostly magic. -- Jennifer BellA masterfully written story surging with powerful energy, as brilliant as the finest stained glass. Nona is a heroine you'll never forget. -- Sinéad O'HartShatteringly good. Katharine Orton writes about history as someone who understands it, and about magic as though she could probably do it. -- Nick TomlinsonGlassheart shimmers with magic and adventure ... A story that left a sparkling splinter in my soul. -- Damaris Young

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Book SynopsisDiscover a life outdoors with this exuberant guide packed with 100 different big and small adventures. From building a den, to going on a skateboard journey, visiting a lighthouse and telling midnight ghost stories, every adventure will inspire you to get outdoors and go exploring. Created by adventurer Anna McNuff, this book will encourage everyone to fly by the seat of their adventure pants, no matter where they live!Trade ReviewThis new book will easily entice little-ones to put down the phone and start planning adventures. This is a fun-spirited book, beautifully illustrated and packed with inspiration for mini-adventures… This is the kind of book I’d have loved as a child. * The Times *Featured in a piece written by Anna for the i newspaper. * i *Featured in Parent Talk. * Parent Talk *Featured in Women's Running Magazine. * Women's Running Magazine *This will inspire the whole family to get outdoors and make the most of the summer. * Sunday Express (S Magazine) *

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Book SynopsisAn Irish storyteller revisits the little-known legend of the Mermaid Saint in a haunting, beautifully illustrated tale of kindness, music and longing.Long ago, on the eastern coast of Ireland, a monk from the Abbey of Bangor was collecting driftwood along the shore when he found a boy washed up amid a circle of seals. At first the boy could barely move or speak. But when he regained his strength, he recalled being brought ashore by a lady with long golden hair who sang him to safety and gave him a silver ring. The monks knew the legend of a mermaid who had wandered the coast for three hundred years. Could it possibly have been her?Inspired by a story told in medieval chronicles of Irish history, debut author Marianne McShane weaves a captivating tale, while Jordi Solano captures the legend's spare but welcoming abbey on the rocky shore setting that makes you believe that if you listen hard enough, you too can hear the mermaid's song.Trade ReviewWith the lyrical style of an expert storyteller, a picture is painted of long ago Ireland, its' legends, its' magic and its' wonder. The graceful language itself weaves a spell full of atmosphere, whisking the reader back in time. The gorgeous illustrations gracing the pages of this picture book give exacting imagery and a genuine sense of time and place, rich in detail, symbolism and a feel of the old; the magical. Evocative, exquisite and beautiful; this one truly brings the legend home. Simply wonderful. * Fallen Star Stories Blog *Marianne read an extract and was interviewed on the BBC radio show Your Place and Mine. * Your Place and Mine *A contemporary Irish seanchaí, or storyteller, uses a bit of historical text from 558 C.E.—the Annals of the Four Masters—to fashion a story about a wondrous creature from the sea. [...] With this ode to music and mermaids, McShane deftly uses old stories to create a lyrical, satisfying new one. * Kirkus review *Featured in an interview with Marianne McShane in The Irish Echo. * The Irish Echo *Featured in a piece by Marianne McShane in Books Ireland Magazine. * Books Ireland *

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewA tender story, cheerfully illustrated, about unconventional people and the freedom to be yourself. * The Sunday Times *I really like the way that David Almond writes. His descriptions are mesmerising. * Books Up North *Featured in a piece with David Almond showing readers where he works in WRD Magazine. * WRD *David Almond's glowing prose conjures a magical world, building a picture of a special girl w h o is very much a creature of the sea. […] Beatrice Alemagna's beautiful illustrations complement the text perfectly, evoking the sea, the shore, both the everyday and the mysterious: "Annie Lumsden, seal girl, fish girl, dolphin girl...”. The story and the pictures will haunt the reader long after the covers of the book are closed. * The School Librarian *“Annie Lumsden, The Girl From The Sea is tender and enchanting […] An unusual story beautifully told and presented for children of 9+. * Newbury Today *

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Book SynopsisWill Natterjack Toad EVER get to eat his cookies? Or will he become a SNACK himself?Do you have a favourite snack? One you''ve been thinking about all day, and just can''t wait to tuck into? Well, our friend Natterjack Toad has a packet of delicious chocolate-chunk crunchy-munch cookies and he can''t wait to tuck in. So, he gets himself all nice and comfortable, ready to savour every last chocolately bite he reaches into the packet, he opens his mouth, and then ... Natterjack Toad can''t believe it! Every time he tries to eat his cookies, there''s something in the way: a lanky heron, a frisky-whiskered weasel, a scurrying vole all on the lookout for a (toady) snack themselves. Will he ever be able to eat his chocolate-chunk crunchy-munch cookies in peace?

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Book Synopsis"Laugh out loud funny and full of heart" Noel Fielding"Funny, bonkers and brilliant" The Stylist"Very funny, with brilliant illustrations. It should be called The Book That Everyone Wanted To Read." Nadia Shireen"One book that I really think children should read is The Book That No One Wanted to Read." David BaddielHave you ever thought about how it feels to be a book? To be left under a whiffy pant pile or shelved, forever collecting dust? To have your pages bent backwards or your spine BROKEN? What if you don’t have a sparkly unicorn or dragon adorning your cover – who will pick you out of the bookshop then? This is the story of the sadly neglected Book That No One Wanted To Read – can its destiny change when it finally meets the right reader? Spoiler alert: yes.Trade Reviewpacked in visual vim as well as ample wit. -- Kitty Empire * Kitty Empire's Chapter Books of the Year, Observer *Everything Richard does turns to gold and this is an absolute treat! packed with ideas and so funny. -- Noel FieldingFor imagination giving: The Book That No One Wanted To Read by Richard Ayoade An inspired way to get younger minds into the joy of books is Richard Ayoade’s funny, bonkers and brilliant new read that’s joyfully illustrated by Tor Freeman * 'Christmas Gift Guide for Book Lovers', Stylist *this is a strange and entertaining story that has a lot of fun exploring some of our ideas about reading and what we expect from a book. The funny illustrations by Tor Freeman are the perfect match for the clever, brilliantly silly story. * The Week Junior *Splendidly illustrated by Tor Freeman , The Book… combines snarky silliness with a paean to the limitless possibilities of the blank page. * 'Chapter Books of the Month', The Observer *

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Book SynopsisA new edition of Mary Murphy's gorgeous exploration of the many ways animals snuggle down to sleep.The perfect bedtime read, snuggle down with this adorable new book from Mary Murphy, creator of A Kiss Like This and Say Hello Like This, as she invites you into lots of different little snorey, twitchy, cuddly animals’ homes as they get ready to go to sleep. With a beautiful sleepy action on every split-page, a lulling, rhythmical text and a cast of cute animal families, this book is sure to emit lots of oooh, aaaahs and … zzzzzz.Trade ReviewWith its ‘glow in the dark’ silvery tactile component of every dream scene, this small chunky book is a delight at every turn of the page; and the limited colour palette is used to great effect, heightening the whole nocturnal drama. * Red Reading Hub *

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Book SynopsisThe thrilling conclusion to the Great Fox series. Can Flick and Charlie finally uncover the Bell System, the greatest and most dangerous magic trick of all?Flick is a magician out of tricks. Every attempt to find her father has so far failed. Now the police have accused him of stealing the Crown Jewels and they want Flick's help to work out how he did it.Flick and her best friend, Charlie, travel to Cornwall, where they believe her father may be hiding in an abandoned museum of magic. There they find master illusionist the Great Fox, also hot on the trail. But something else is hidden at the heart of the museum the Bell System, the most dangerous magic trick the world has ever seen.

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Book SynopsisIf you enjoyed Bunnies on a Bus then you're going to LOVE this, because – hold onto your tails! – the bunnies are BACK! And this time they're in ... a BOAT!It's time for another wild bunny-tastic adventure! And this time, the bunnies have commandeered a BOAT! All across Sunnytown Beach, the Bunnies are dashing and a-splashing on a speedboat frenzy. They whoosh past the sail-boats, and zoooom across the sand, then it's up on to the jetty where silly billy Bunnies get all covered in spaghetti! But, oh no, where are the bunnies off to now? To the airport, across the tarmac ... it's bunnies on the PLANE. Here we go again...Trade Reviewhilarious and chaotic. -- 09/12/2022 * The Bookseller, March 2023 Previews *

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Book SynopsisA powerful, stirring yet utterly down-to-earth story with an unforgettable message about anger, compassion and forgiveness.Based on a true story from the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu's childhood, Desmond and the Very Mean Word depicts an incident in a South African town. While proudly riding his new bicycle, young Desmond is rudely insulted by some neighbourhood boys – and at first he responds angrily. But he's troubled to find that retaliation brings him no relief, and he can't stop thinking about the mean things the boys said to him. With the aid of the kindly Father Trevor, Desmond arrives at a better understanding of his feelings and learns that true forgiveness comes from within – and arises when you choose to regard all people with compassion, whether or not they say they are sorry.A beautiful tale of forgiveness, as well as a lesson about how to handle bullying and feelings of anger, embarrassment and revenge, this is a vibrantly illustrated, deeply warm-hearted story.Trade ReviewA picture book […] which carries an important lesson for young children to learn. * Newbury Weekly News *Featured in Pen & Inc Autumn/Winter 2022 listings, highlighting the best in diversity and inclusion in children's books. * Pen & Inc *

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Book SynopsisMr Santa, want to hear me play? Do the reindeer talk? And can I ride your sleigh?When a little girl comes face to face with Santa in her own house, she can hardly believe it! It's her golden opportunity to ask him the questions all the many questions! that she's been desperate to know... Can Santa eat clouds? Does he stop at traffic lights? Is his belly button innie or outie?With his signature warmth and visual humour, Jarvis channels the excitement and joy of every child who has dreamed of meeting the loveable guy who personifies the most magical night of the year.

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Book SynopsisFrom the visionary author of two 2021 Newbery Honor Books, comes a high-seas adventure set in a Thai-inspired fantasy world.A young woman struggles to unburden herself of the past and chart her own destiny in a world of secrets. As assistant to Mangkon’s most celebrated mapmaker, 12-year-old Sai plays the part of a well-bred young lady with a glittering future. In reality, her father is a low-life conman – and the truth could ruin her. Sai seizes the chance to join an expedition to chart the southern seas, but she isn’t the only one aboard with secrets. When Sai learns that the ship is heading for the fabled Sunderlands – a land of dragons, dangers and riches beyond imagining – she must weigh the cost of her dreams.A compelling and suspenseful middle-grade fantasy adventure.Trade ReviewExploits on the high seas and complex characters combine in a tale full of both excitement and heart. An engrossing adventure with the feeling of a whole world to be explored. * Kirkus Reviews (starred review) *Soontornvat deftly discusses themes of colonization and “discovery,”. . . Employing a presumed Asian cast of well-developed crew members with various skin tones and plenty of emotional depth, this high seas adventure deftly explores complex power dynamics and class hierarchies while maintaining a fast-paced clip. * Publishers Weekly (starred review) *All along, Soontornvat (a Newbery honoree for “A Wish in the Dark”) skillfully uses tropes to throw us off. Introduce a young, woebegone heroine questing after a flying monster for glory and the reader can’t help chasing the dragon with her. * The New York Times Book Review *Action drives the narrative forward, creating a real page-turner with intriguing characters. . . Blending Age of Sail historical fiction, adventure, and fantasy within a Thai-inspired setting, this original novel will leave readers hoping for sequels. * Booklist *Class structure, imperial greed, and environmental ravages underpin the narrative arc of this fantastical adventure story, resonating with our own contemporary issues. At the same time, Soontornvat’s Thai-inspired culture and geography provide a vivid backdrop. With emphasis on an intricate plot and quick, accessible prose, Soontornvat provides plenty of excitement while bringing questions of expansionism and de-colonization to young readers. * The Horn Book *

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Book SynopsisThe third in the funny I Am... series from former Children's Laureate Michael Rosen and rising star Robert Starling.This puppy is happy – so happy, it feels like dancing the waltz, doing somersaults, laughing out loud – and even climbing on a cloud!This fantastical flight of fancy captures the most joyful of toddler moods, encouraging children to explore their own imagination and celebrate their feelings. A terrifically uplifting read-aloud from the master of rhyme, Michael Rosen, is coupled with brilliantly bold illustrations from Robert Starling.

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Book SynopsisA touching celebration of nature by debut author Anne Twist, illustrated by world-renowned children''s book artist Emily Sutton.Betty loves visiting Grandma and playing in her beautiful garden, Acorn Hollows. But when a mysterious creature starts destroying the Hollows, Betty must come up with a plan to save it. Whatever will she do?Anne Twist''s joyous story is brought to life by Emily Sutton''s stunning illustrations.

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Book SynopsisDiscover the most brilliant skills animals have ever evolved in a stylish and fascinating picture book. Body armour, seeing with sound, gliding without wings - wherever you look in the animal kingdom, you can find amazing super skills to deal with nature''s trickiest challenges. In fact, these skills are so amazing that they have evolved again and again in totally unrelated animals! From tiny insects to ginormous giraffes, meet the creatures that have the same ingenious ways of surviving and thriving on planet Earth. Discover the wonders of evolution in this vibrant picture book packed with incredible facts from zoologist Dr Nick Crumpton, and illustrated by award-winning new talent Viola Wang.

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Book SynopsisReady, steady, wobble ... GO! Saddle up for a bike ride with Maisy!Maisy has a new bicycle and can't wait to go on a bike ride with her friends. There are so many adventures to be had whizzing around on wheels, whether it's on a bike, trike, scooter or even a tandem! Uphill and down, through puddles, and with just the odd wobble, Maisy has a wonderful time. This 24th Maisy First Experiences story is a treat to read with your little one and will encourage confidence, independence and a love of pedal power!

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