Walker Books

Book SynopsisA timely, inspiring and uplifting story about hope and the power of creative expression, from one of the world's most treasured bookmakers.After a cold, dark winter, doors opened. Children spilled out like sweets from a box. Amanda was last one out of the tower block. She brought some chalk with her. On every inch of the concrete outside, the children drew pictures of everything they could think of, from flowers and snails, to spaceships and queens. Before long, a beautiful and exotic garden spread out across the concrete.From master storyteller Bob Graham comes a charming, and gently post-pandemic story about finding optimism after a dark spell, and the nurturing power of community friendships in an urban setting. The Concrete Garden will resonate with anyone who has been apart from their loved ones, and will encourage us all to find the brightness and colour within ourselves.Trade ReviewRestrained, poetic, humorous text and joyously burgeoning pictures speak to the perennial power of shared imagination. * Guardian *Graham finds big themes in small events: community, imagination, hope. * Sunday Times *[Graham’s] mixed media images of the children and their chalk creations bejewel the pages of the book making it a joy from beginning to end. * Red Reading Hub *

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Book SynopsisOne of the world's greatest writers is introduced to a new audience through this accessible retelling with lively illustrations.Trade Review"Each story is told with vivid imagination and lively language - a great introduction to some classic stories." (Junior on Oliver Twist and Other Great Dickens Stories (9781406323344))"

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Book SynopsisGet ready for action, adrenaline and adventure in this explosive, brand new Alex Rider mission by bestselling author, Anthony Horowitz.In this adrenaline-fuelled adventure in the number one bestselling series, Alex Rider is sent by MI6 Special Operations to infiltrate a new and sinister organization known only as Nightshade. Alex is on his own, with the fate of thousands of people resting in his hands.Trade ReviewAs ever, the plotting is meticulous and the pace relentless, but what is new is Alex’s dawning compassion for other children. * New Statesman *Pacy and ingenious, as usual, this novel demonstrates a high level of philosophical complexity as it considers the nature of cults, religious extremism and our responsibility for each other, as well as involving karate, explosions and jumping out of planes. -- Nicolette Jones * The Sunday Times & The Sunday Times Ireland *Anthony Horowitz is second to none at writing pageturners that children are desperate to read. Now he’s back with Nightshade, his 12th gripping adventure about teenage superspy Alex Rider. -- Emma Lee Potter * Sunday Express (S Magazine) *Fizzling with suspense, Nightshade is fast paced and thrilling – a delight for newcomers and old fans alike. It’s difficult to keep up the momentum in a series that began two decades ago, but once again Horowitz proves he is a master of his craft. Hopefully, this is not the last we shall see of teen hero Alex Rider. -- Megan Baynes * Belfast Telegraph *It's a chunky book and all the better for it. Filled with the usual pulse-quickening adventures from the teen super-spy, expect your young readers to disappear inside it's pages entirely. Great. * Angels & Urchins *

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Book SynopsisA sensitive, beautifully illustrated picture book about three children spending time with their grandad at his wonderful beach hut and how his spirit lives on there.This delightful story is all about the warm, loving relationship that three children share with their Grandpa Martin. The children visit Grandpa at his Happy Hut throughout the year, in spring, summer, autumn and even winter. Each season brings its own adventures and shows the hut in a new light each time.This poignant story goes on to depict the family coping with Grandpa Martin's death in a gentle, uplifting manner as they make sure that the Happy Hut stands as a reminder of all the memories they made together.Trade ReviewWonderfully warm, Tim’s tale of love, loss and memories is presented with tenderness and sensitivity in both words and pictures. This is a book to share with Grandpas, as well as to enjoy both with family members and in the KS1 classroom. * Red Reading Hub *The exuberant energy and enthusiasm of Grandpa Martin as he strides across the book cover and earlier pages is visceral. The special beach hut is painted ‘a bright vivid, sunshine yellow‘, a colour palette that shines through. * The Letterpress Project *This is a heart-warming and ultimately uplifting story touching on some deep themes for young children. […] It’s about trying to remember all the reasons we have to be happy and enjoying the moment. A moving and powerful book. * Mini Travellers Blog *

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Book SynopsisBollywood movies are made of dreams and adventures, and I long to discover them all...It’s Friday night and, on the bustling streets of Mumbai, a little girl and her family head to the cinema. As they travel, the girl captures the sights and sounds of the city with her camera, and imagines a movie unfolding before her eyes. And when they reach the screening, the room is electric – it’s time to dance!Inspired by the author's own childhood memories, Bollywood brings people together in this heartfelt and joyful debut from a brand-new talent.Trade ReviewBold, bright and imaginative, Dwivedi’s picture-book debut conjures the excitement of a Friday family trip to a Mumbai cinema. -- Imogen Russell Williams * The Guardian *This book sings with the energy of Bollywood, and the sights, sounds and smells of Mumbai. -- Alice Ellerby * Juno *Author/illustrator Avani Dwivedi has based her debut picture book on her own experiences of growing up in Mumbai and she really captures the vibrancy of Mumbai streets […] She captures too the magic of those movies. * Red Reading Hub *Told through beautiful imagery and lyrical prose, this book soars in language, illustration, and cultural importance. [...] This is a well told and colorful rendering of the importance of art through film, and one young girl’s ­connection to her culture. * School Library Journal Starred Review *

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Book SynopsisA spectacular tour of a rainforest, with a convincing, affecting case to make about conservation underscored by extraordinary illustrations.Tropical rainforests are amazing places. More kinds of animals and plants live in them than live anywhere else in the world. This one is in Malaysia, in South East Asia. Let''s go and take a look... So begins this magnificent new book from conservation-biologist Martin Jenkins and fine artist Vicky White, the award-winning team behind Can We Save the Tiger? and Ape. The breathtakingly-detailed illustrations are packed with life, from hornbills to gibbons, bats and the much-loved Asian Elephant, while the conversational text expertly weaves in complex biology to show young readers both how life in the jungle is intrinsically linked, and why we must work to protect it. With a powerful environmental message, this is a tour de force from two remarkable talents and a perfect choice for fans of RobTrade ReviewStunningly Illustrated throughout, this is a reminder of the breath of life in the jungle and why we need to protect it. -- Charlotte Eyre * The Bookseller *Martin Jenkins is at his narrative non-fiction best, and Vicky White’s accompanying photo-real pencil illustrations have to be seen to be believed. * CLPE, "October New Books Roundup" *

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Book SynopsisPrepare for a hell of a ride as Cynthia Leitich Smith calls on characters from her previous novels - and conjures up new ones - for a climactic showdown. eBook available.Trade Review"Stephenie Meyer, honey, watch out. Twilight fans, you are gonna LOVE Eternal." (Dallas Morning News) "Great book, Twilight fans will love it!" (Kiss magazine) "A hearty meal for the thinking vampire reader." (Horn Book) "A wild and ultimately fascinating, if at times, grisly, alternate universe." (Kirkus Reviews) "A good read for those who hunger for the dark side, with all the trappings of a YA vampire novel." (School Library Journal)"

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Book SynopsisExplore animal sounds and soothe a crying baby in this charming, graphic board book from Taro Miura, creator of The Tiny King.

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Book SynopsisLet''s make animal noises with Tiny Cat the loveable feline from Viviane Schwarz''s There Are Cats in This Book, There Are No Cats in this Book and Counting with Tiny Cat.From the ever original and wonderfully playful Viviane Schwarz comes a laugh-out-loud, theatrical first animal book for the very youngest of readers. Tiny Cat is playing dressing-up! She rolls up in a rug to become a snake hiss! And with booties on her paws, she's a horse neigh! In fact, with oodles of imagination, Tiny Cat can be any animal she wants to be! But does Tiny Cat have what it takes to be a fearless lion? Find out in this inventive picture book with an abundance of visual humour!Trade ReviewPlayful and creative * The Bookseller *“Clever, ingenious and irresistible fun!” * Andrea Reece, LoveReadig4Kids *“With few words and beautiful illustration, the simplicity of this book makes it the perfect introduction to animals for the youngest or readers.” * Parent Talk *

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Book SynopsisYou've heard of Mary who had a little lamb but did you know she had a little tiger, too?Mary had a little lamb, its fleece was white as snow. She had a little tiger, too ... and a yellow hippo! From award-winning bookmaker Jarvis, the creator of Alan's Big, Scary Teeth, Mrs Mole, I'm Home! and Tropical Terry, comes a fresh, very funny twist on the classic nursery rhyme perfect for sharing with the very youngest of readers! With bright, beautiful graphics, read-aloud rhymes, and a stylish, sturdy feel, this board book is the perfect gift for a new arrival, and a fantastic addition to a toddler's first library.

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Book SynopsisA moving historical story inspired by the Foundling Museum, written by acclaimed children''s author Michael Morpurgo and illustrated by Michael Foreman.From award-winning master storyteller Michael Morpurgo, author of the acclaimed War Horse, comes a moving historical story inspired by the Foundling Museum. A lonely boy struggles to cope with school bullies and caring for his mother, until a mysterious encounter reveals life in the Foundling Hospital in the eighteenth century and unravels a touching tale about the power of music. Beautifully illustrated by Kate Greenaway Medal-winning illustrator Michael Foreman.Trade Review“The author recreates historic periods with a wonderful sense of atmosphere, truly transporting the reader to a different era. […]Sometimes, dream pairings of author and illustrator come along - and Michael Morpurgo and Michael Foreman are one of those pairings. The delicate illustrations and colour plates encapsulate the emotion and atmosphere of the story perfectly. An atmospheric and moving story from a master storyteller.” * Parents in Touch *“Michael Morpurgo employs his familiar technique of using an old character to tell a story to good effect” * Angels and Urchins *“Award-winning Michel Morpurgo’s warm-hearted time slip story cleverly interweaves the lives of two boys, Jonah and Nathaniel.” * Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month, LoveReading *“Everyone loves an orphan story and the Foundling Hospital, created by Thomas Coram in 1739 with help from William Hogarth and George Frideric Handel, has inspired many authors. Hetty Feather, Jacqueline Wilson’s resident of the London charity, is perhaps the most famous creation. Well, Hetty has competition now. Michael Morpurgo’s moving tale, illustrated beautifully by the mighty Michael Foreman, begins in the present day […] Heartwarming stuff – a foundling story worth finding.” * The Times, Children’s Book of the Week *“A foundling story worth finding.” * The Times, Best children’s books of 2017 *

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Book SynopsisRight at the top of Shiverhawk Hall live children in pictures on the wall.A midsummer moon shines on Shiverhawk Hall, where portraits of children come alive on the wall... As night falls, and the DeVillechild twins are nowhere to be seen, the other children escape their frames in search of two girls in white dresses and, possibly, a midnight game in the garden. Out in the night air, through the maze, and into the woods they go, looking for their mysterious friends. Will they be able to find the twins before the sun rises? Charming and eerie without ever being too scary, Katie May Green's rhyming caper is perfect for Halloween story times and bedtime read-alouds after a long day of play.

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Book SynopsisA warm and thought-provoking tale from a master storyteller, winner of the prestigious Hans Christian Andersen Award and author of the Carnegie Medal-winning Skellig.Mam, did you think George was, I say, a bit weird?Weird? Yes, I suppose so. But you kids are all a bit weird if you ask me. And to tell the truth, it'd be weird if you weren't.When a new boy joins the class, everyone thinks he's a bit strange, but he's brilliant at football and loves crisps, and that's all that matters to Dan and Maxie. However, the truth about George is stranger than anyone could have imagined ... and more sinister, too. Can his new pals help him to become truly free?Trade ReviewAlmond takes a thought-provoking look at AI, and what it means to be human, in an illustrated story set in the north-east of England. -- Fiona Noble * The Bookseller *Cleverly disguised as a heist, Almond ’s moving page-turner ponders nothing less than humanity and free will, and how to have a great time in the woods. * The Observer (The New Review) *It would be a pity to spoil the ending of Brand New Boy, particularly as Almond balances suspense and reveal so delicately in this page-turning laugh-aloud book. Still, a young reader paying close attention might just guess - and will congratulate themselves for their cleverness. * The Irish Times *David Almond tackles deep philosophical themes with an invisibly light touch in this funny story about George, a new boy at school. * The Daily Mail, The Irish Daily Mail & The Scottish Daily Mail *Like so many of David Almond’s books, this ends up being a celebration of humanity and wonder, and of what it feels like to be young. * The Times & The Irish Times *I really liked the plot of this book as I couldn’t guess what George’s secret was until it was revealed half way through. Then the story gets really exciting as the friends try to save their strange new friend. If you like exciting books that are told by the child themselves, I think you will like this book. -- Ted (Age 9) * Books Up North *Intriguing, slightly creepy and ultimately rather profound, this will encourage its young readers to ponder what life is really for, and what their future might hold. Wonderful stuff. * The Big Issue *This is a story that will make readers think about what it is to be human, about how to live life to the fullest, and about the importance of love. Marta Altes’ fine illustration style is full of emotion - you'll find yourself poring over her drawings again and again. Whilst this is a funny and easy to read book, it's also sad and rather profound in places, ending on a beautiful uplifting note.Fans of David Almond have come to expect great things from his stories, and this is no exception, showcasing children’s fiction at its best. It may also be a great gateway book to his classics Skellig and My Name is Mina. * BookTrust *The story of their glorious day in the woods with George is told with great tenderness and delight, both in the natural world and the free play of primary. * The School Librarian *

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Book SynopsisA bright, funny Nature Storybook about all kinds of frogs from prize-winning author Martin Jenkins, stylishly illustrated by Tim Hopgood.Conservation biologist Martin Jenkins takes a funny and affectionate look at frogs around the world, from the mighty West African Goliath frog and colourful South American Poison Arrow frog to the south-east Asian Flying frog and the humble frog in your garden pond. Both author and illustrator delight in the diversity and occasional weird behaviour of these small and much loved creatures. Tim Hopgood''s bold and playful illustrations succeed in capturing each frog''s defining characteristics, and the largest and smallest frogs in the world are drawn to scale which helps bring them to life even more. An engaging and informative book with captions, fact pages and an index.

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Book SynopsisFrom Children's Laureates Michael Rosen and Chris Riddell, the bestselling team behind A Great Big Cuddle, comes a first book of nursery rhymes.Flying pigs, wobbling plates of jelly and a giant who trembles whenever he meets a mouse: welcome to the topsy-turvy world of nursery rhymes. Inspired by his lifelong fascination with these peculiar poems, Michael Rosen has placed familiar playground songs alongside forgotten gems for a seminal new collection. Brought to vivid life by Chris Riddell's magnificent pictures, expect familiar faces, from little Jumping Joan to Miss Mary Mack but also plenty of surprises With forty rhymes to choose from, this book is sure to prove a bedtime favourite.Huggable and exuberant makes you want to smile and stomp to the rhythm. The Sunday Times on A Great Big CuddleTrade ReviewFeatured in The Bookseller's September Previews. -- Fiona Noble * The Bookseller *Michael Rosen’s unusual collection of clapping, skipping and counting rhymes is selected for sound as much as sense; and Riddell’s illustrations of buses and trains, of diverse children, and of animals from bats to bears, have a circus vibe and full-on cuteness. A joyful gift book for babies and toddlers acquiring language. * The Times & The Irish Times *A guaranteed bedtime favourite for our youngest bookworms is the new book from Michael Rosen and Chris Riddell. These topsy-turvy tales are a feast of words and amazing pictures. * The Bath Magazine *For small children, Honey for You, Honey for Me is Michael Rosen’s take on nursery rhymes, written to be chanted aloud, with adorable pictures by Chris Riddell. Some are tweaked for contemporary sensibilities, but children won’t mind. Riddell is an illustrator with an exquisitely fine line and a strongly individual style, who turns from political cartoons to story books with astonishing ease. * The Spectator *Parents of little ones and those working in early years settings will love this book full of quick, repeating chants and songs, often funny, which can help toddlers and pre-schoolers develop their language skills, practise sounds and have fun following along. * BookTrust *

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Book SynopsisThey say they always know you're up to something when the house goes quietExploring his mother's dressing table, a little boy discovers THE LIPSTICK. It begins on his lips, where it looks very good MWAH! But then it goes for a little walk squiggle, squiggle on the mirror scribble scribble on the shiny floorboards smudge smudge. And even on the fluffy cat. Uh-oh! What will happen when Mum, Dad and big sister sees all this mess? From the team behind Angry Cookie comes a hilarious and joyous story all about artistic expression, self-confidence and supportive, accepting parenting.Trade ReviewThe witty illustrations of Maria Karipidou will also raise a laugh in Laura Dockrill’s The Lipstick, about an unsupervised toddler doodling with hot-pink lipstick all over the house (“I took the lipstick for a little walk…”). It’s hard not to share the toddler’s thrill as the forbidden squiggles multiply. * The Observer (The New Review) *a hilarious naughty-and-nice adventure in which a cheeky little boy liberates his mother’s favourite lipstick and goes on a rampage, covering walls, furniture and even the cat – not to mention his own beaming smile * The Guardian *Fantastic book to read and I would recommend it to others. It made me and my daughter both laugh and is a very happy book as I’m sure lots of mums and dad's with young children can relate to this story. -- Parent * Toppsta *This is certainly the most outstanding book that my 10-months-old tot has laid eyes on, as of today. We love every single doodle, scribbling and splotch. And there are plenty of them, meticulously drawn on every one of the 40 pages' pad of a boy with an exuberant imagination. Author & illustrator are a brilliant well-oiled machine here. -- Parent * Toppsta *Lovely read! The class got really into this and with hands up ‘he’s going to get into trouble’ ‘uh oh’ lots of fun interaction and morals! Great read and lively illustrations. -- Teacher * Toppsta *

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Book SynopsisFormer Children's Laureates Michael Rosen and Sir Quentin Blake join forces for a personal and uniquely affecting collection of poems about migration.What you leave behind Won''t leave your mind.But home is where you find it.Home is where you find it.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 ReviewFeatured in The Bookseller's October Previews. -- Fiona Noble * The Bookseller *Many of the poems in this collection are about Rosen’s family, including those killed in the Holocaust, which he then connects with the plight of others who flee danger. Succinct and direct, both the poems and Blake’s drawings are charged with feeling. * The Sunday Times *Moving and evocative, this is a collection not to be missed. * WRD *Enhanced 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 *It's powerful and moving, playful and heartbreaking, and a brilliant way to get children thinking about the migrant in all of us. * Teach Primary *

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Book SynopsisFirst published in 1976 by Hamish Hamilton, this is the beguiling tale of Adam, a strange child found by sisters Sara and Becca one midsummer. They love him dearly, but if as it is said, he is a fairy child, can they keep him beyond a year and a day. The TREASURES series are gift-book editions of classic children's stories.

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Book SynopsisA moving and epic tale of one family's fortunes in the 1920s Australian outback, winner of the 2002 Guardian Children's Fiction Prize.Trade Review"* "The writing never falters. The book has an immensely powerful realisation of pace, compelling characters, soul-tearing moments, and atmosphere that seeps into your life." Books For Keeps * "Beautifully written, subtle and haunting." The Scotsman"

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Book SynopsisLearn everything you ever wanted to know about poo in this exciting new edition of a bestselling book.Hippos navigate by it, sloths keep in touch through it, rabbits eat it and most grown-ups prefer not to mention it at all! But however you look at it, poo is probably the most useful stuff on Earth. It comes in all shapes and sizes, and every animal has its own special sort. Find out what it's for, where it goes, what we can learn from it and lots more in this book, one of six in the Animal Science series the best biology series ever!Trade ReviewFull of fascinating information - and all scientifically based, of course. Neal Layton's wonderful cartoon illustrations are a key part of the book, adding both information and entertainment. I can pretty well guarantee that adults will find it just as engrossing as children do - even if they don't want to admit it! Parents in Touch

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Book SynopsisAn engaging, easy-to-use and informative biography of Shakespeare with humorous illustrations.So what was it like to live in Shakespeare''s time? What do we actually know about him? And how does someone become that famous? These are just a few of the questions addressed in this lively and accessible book on the life and works of William Shakespeare by award-winning author Michael Rosen. Ideal for browsing, the text is divided into clear sections and includes studies of four of Shakespeare''s plays, intriguing facts and information about Shakespeare himself and the world at this time, accompanied by a useful timeline.Trade ReviewA revelation of just how good a teacher and critic Rosen is. Will serve as a model for those teaching Shakespeare at Key Stages 2 and 3. * The Times Educational Supplement *A terrific idea, winningly executed by poet and wit Michael Rosen. Taking four of the bard’s plays ... he presents a lively canter through Shakespeare’s life and times, and in the lightest possible manner offers a persuasive argument for why Shakespeare still matters. Better than that, why he is a pleasure, not a chore * The Glasgow Herald *A lively and accessible book. * My Child *Stands out because it encourage children to wonder and questions why Shakespeare is still acted, read and quotes and why his work still shapes our language and literature today * Books for Keeps, 10 best books to introduce children to William Shakespeare *An engaging, easy-to-use and informative biography of Shakespeare with humorous illustrations. * The Bookseller *Find out what makes Shakespeare so special in this brilliant introduction to his work and world by the esteemed Michael Rosen. * Angels & Urchins *This is a wonderful introduction to our most famous playwright. […] Inspiring. * South Wales Evening Post *This smart series for young readers poses a good question, and in the hands of all-round literature-lover, Michael Rosen, the answer is both educational and entertaining. […] a rousing round-up of the Bard’s continuing significance. Nicely packaged with hilarious illustrations * IBW Children's Book Guide, The Bookseller *

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Book SynopsisA delightfully cheerful non-fiction picture book about how to care for your cat, from much-loved author Vivian French and award-winning illustrator Salvatore Rubbino.A non-fiction picture book about a rescue cat, with a charmingly funny story by Vivian French and lively illustrations by Salvatore Rubbino. The story follows a family who have just moved into a mouse-infested flat. Dad is terrified of mice and, after several sleepless nights, decides they should get a cat. They meet Kevin the cat in a rescue home he''s big and strong, and they''re sure he''ll catch all of the mice. But Kevin has other ideas Join this lovable tomcat as he settles into his new home, gradually learning how to use a litter tray, when he''ll be fed and that it''s probably better to use a scratching post than to shred the back of Dad''s chair. The caption text provides information on feeding, grooming and caring for your cat and at the end of the book, there''s a handy index and bibliTrade Review“A lovely mix of story and instructions for children ages three and above.” * The School Librarian *

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Book SynopsisAn award-winning author and a Caldecott Medalist introduce an adorable new circus star who won't stop crying!When Frieda and Boffo Clown have a baby, everyone in the circus is over the moon. But there is just one problem: Baby Clown won't stop crying! Frieda and Boffo try everything: putting on their silliest faces, driving him around in their tiny car. They even try taking off his red nose and big shoes. But that just makes Baby Clown cry more. Can Frieda and Boffo turn his little clown frown upside down in time for the sold-out show? Kara LaReau juggles wit and warmth in this hilarious nod to being a new parent, while Matthew Cordell's big-top-bright illustrations bring Baby Clown and his circus family to funny, frazzled life. Older siblings, in particular, will step right up to this applause-worthy picture book, joining Baby Clown in many a heartfelt WAAAAH!

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Book SynopsisRevisiting the world of Raymie Nightingale and Louisiana''s Way Home, twice winner of the Newbery Medal Kate DiCamillo turns her focus to the tough-talking, inescapably tenderhearted Beverly Tapinski.Beverly Tapinski has run away from home plenty of times, but that was when she was just a kid. By now, she figures, it's not running away ... it's leaving. Determined to make it on her own, Beverly finds a job and a place to live and tries to forget about her dog, Buddy, now buried underneath the orange trees back home; her friend Raymie, whom she left without a word; and her mum, Rhonda, who has never cared about anyone but herself. Beverly doesn't want to depend on anyone, and she definitely doesn't want anyone to depend on her. But despite her best efforts, she can't help forming connections with the people around her and gradually she learns to see herself through their eyes. In a touching, funny and fearless conclusion to her sequence of novels about the beloved ThrTrade ReviewKate DiCamillo is a writer of unusual kindness, wit and thoughtfulness. Her books are bittersweet and beautiful, and reminders of the insistent beauties of the world and the people in it, even in the toughest of circumstances. * Anna James, author of Pages & Co. *DiCamillo makes it looks so easy; it’s not. This accomplished storyteller, who has twice won America’s prestigious prize for children’s books, the Newbery Medal, makes every line work so hard each paragraph positively glows. * The Times (Saturday Review), Children’s Book of the Week *This book is a real page tuner… All ages will enjoy this very heart-warming story which celebrates the victory of hope over adversity. * The School Librarian *

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Book SynopsisDiscover history as you''ve never seen it before and all the stuff you never knew happened at the same time!Did you know the woolly mammoths were still around when the Egyptians built their pyramids? Or that Leonardo Da Vinci lived at the same time as Henry VIII and the Aztecs? Welcome to The History of Everywhere, a fascinating guide to all the stuff you never knew happened at the same time! In lively maps, see the whole world of history: from ancient times to the modern day, watch civilizations rise and fall, spot fascinating connections and coincidences, and discover the people and events you never learnt about in school. Prepare for a fascinating journey around the world that will change the way you see history!Trade ReviewFeatured in The Bookseller's October previews. * The Bookseller *

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Book SynopsisPearl loves to dance! But will she love preschool, too?Pearl loves attending dance classes at her mother's ballet school. Even though Pearl is the youngest and smallest ballerina, she knows how to count her poses and follow along. When her mum suggests that Pearl try going to preschool, Pearl has a lot of questions: what will she learn? Will there be dancing? A sweet and reassuring story about trying something new that's perfect for young children with separation anxiety or who just love to dance!

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Book SynopsisKing Mouse finds his authority in question when his subjects find crowns of their own...A mouse comes upon a tiny crown in the grass. The mouse puts the crown on his head, and when a bear walks by and asks if he''s king, the mouse responds Yes. The tiny monarch settles into his new role very comfortably ... until, that is, a snake comes upon a crown and claims she is queen. The mouse is not amused! Especially when, one by one, the other animals find crowns and claim they are kings, too. But when the bear can''t find a crown, King Mouse make a most surprising decision...A sweet, thoughtful, funny tale of friendship, sharing and play.

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Book SynopsisFrom celebrated picture book creators Chris Raschka and Vladimir Radunsky comes one possible answer to the age-old question: Who was Mother Goose?We all love to hear Mother Goose rhymes and riddles. But did you know that there was a real Mother Goose who lived in Boston three hundred years ago? In 1692, Elizabeth Foster married a widower with ten children. His name was Isaac Goose, and after they married, Elizabeth became Mother Goose. She and Isaac had six more children together, and to help her care for such a big and boisterous family, Mother Goose sang songs and lullabies and made up rhymes and poems. Her nursery rhymes and stories were published at a print shop on Pudding Lane in Boston, though no copies of her book exist today. In a book featuring some of Mother Goose's best-loved works, Vladimir Radunsky's bright and humorous illustrations and Chris Raschka's rhyming poems tell the little-known story of the Goose children, Isaac and Elizabeth herself the Mother Go

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Book SynopsisSchool event? Ball game? Nana is there. But who will cheer on Nana after she takes a tumble? A sweet and spirited intergenerational story.Nana cheers the loudest at her grandson's basketball game. She dances in the aisles at the spring concert. She yells at the umpire that he needs to get his eyes checked when he doesn't call the strikes her grandson pitches. But when this go-go-go grandmother takes a tumble trying to get a front-row seat at the basketball game, it's her grandson who roots her on in her recovery. Author Ann Stott celebrates our families' biggest fans in a lively first-person narrative from the grandchild's point of view. Andrew Joyner's illustrations are as energetic and upbeat as Nana, who sparks much comic action, purse by her side. Filled with humour and heart, this tale will have readers especially grandparents and their grandchildren whistling and woo-hoo-ing!

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Book SynopsisAn extra-special First Experiences book to celebrate 30 years of Maisy!Today is Maisy''s birthday, hip-hip-hooray! She dresses up in her favourite outfit and eats a yummy breakfast ... but there are no cards from any of her friends. Have they all forgotten about her birthday?Of course not! Her friends are throwing her a very special surprise party. Join the birthday mouse as she plays party games, eats a scrumptious feast, opens her cards and presents and makes a special wish as she blows out the candles on her cake!The perfect book for teaching little ones all about birthday traditions, from party games to blowing out candles, this is an extra-special addition to the bestselling First Experiences range, celebrating 30 years of Maisy!

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Book SynopsisOld Mother Hubbard''s Dog is up to no good!Old Mother Hubbard''s mischievous pup is feeling under the weather and makes up all kinds of ailments! He paints himself with colourful spots, bandages himself from nose to tail and hiccoughs until the windows shake! Long-suffering Old Mother Hubbard tries her best to make him feel better, but nothing seems to work! Whatever can she do?This lively and humorous nonsense poem is brilliantly written by John Yeoman and illustrated exuberantly by Quentin Blake.

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Book SynopsisA powerful and personal story from one of Britain's best-loved authors about his recovery from coronavirus.After being admitted to hospital in 2020 with coronavirus, Michael Rosen had to learn to walk again. With the support of doctors and nurses and a walking stick he names "Sticky McStickstick", he manages to embark on the slow steps to recovery. This moving picture book from the former Children's Laureate, with illustrations from Tony Ross, tells a story of perseverance and hope, and is a testament to the importance of overcoming fear and learning to accept help.Trade ReviewBoth powerful and personal, this offers reassurance on recovery from illness and building resilience. -- Fiona Noble * The Bookseller *[Michael Rosen] is open and honest about how the experiences feel, allowing children and families to have a space in which to talk about difficult topics. * BookTrust *It manages to be funny as well as moving. * The Sunday Times & The Sunday Times Ireland *Few writers and illustrators could make geriatric, post-Covid rehab a jolly subject for a children’s story; this being Rosen and Ross, miraculously, they more than manage it. * The Times *This astonishing capacity to address pain with humour is what gave rise to his new book: Sticky McStickstick a picture book written with levity that nevertheless prompts a lump in the throat. * Books for Keeps *

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Book SynopsisPart lullaby, part love song, this perfectly pitched bedtime book gives a nod to its classic predecessors as it champions the vibrant independent spirit of local bookshops.Join the Little Bookshop’s friendly staff as they draw the curtain on another busy day of browsing. Choose a bedtime story, say your good nights and pet the shop’s friendly cat on your way out. Drawing on the best tradition of classic bedtime books, Amy Cherrix’s lilting text brims with sound play, soothing patterns and repetition, while E. B. Goodale’s bright, inclusive artwork offers people-watching at its best, conjuring the bustling, ineffable mood of a homespun hall of treasures. Penned by a bookseller and illustrated with warmth and zeal, this cosy homage to the neighbourhood bookshop ends with a gallery of bookstores around the world, encouraging local engagement and offering a gentle reminder that books are gifts that keep giving, the most comforting treasure of all.Trade ReviewThis gorgeous bedtime story celebrates diversity, independent bookshops and reading. -- Children's Books Ireland * Reading Matters Guide 2023 *A lovely bedtime rhyme with a difference that had a special appeal for this adult reviewer who is a fan of indie bookshops. * Red Reading Hub *

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Book SynopsisA powerful and positive anthem about the climate crisis, strikingly illustrated by Tim Hopgood, which will inspire young readers to care for the planet.Love, the Earth is a powerful rallying cry to young readers to protect the Earth, beautifully illustrated by the bestselling illustrator Tim Hopgood. Told from the perspective of the Earth, we learn about the epic and ordinary wonders of nature and discover how we can do our bit to help the Earth in turn. Combining charming, rhyming text and spectacular artwork, this book is a magnificent celebration of our planet and essential reading to connect young minds with the beauty of nature.

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Book SynopsisShe made her marks.She whispered her words.Then she said,Go on. Be happy. Up you go.When Nanty Solo comes to town, she says she can turn children into birds. The parents are skeptical, but the children want to fly. And before very long, everyone does. A celebratory, lyrical story that will make your heart and imagination soar. Written by internationally acclaimed author David Almond and brought to life in glorious uplifting paintings by award-winning illustrator Laura Carlin.Trade ReviewA beautiful, whimsical, heart-lifting picture book by a writer who makes words soar and an artist with an elegant, unconventional style, about defying rules and daring to fly. -- Nicolette Jones * Sunday Times *Almond, as ever, champions flights of the imagination. -- Sally Morris * Sally Morris' children's books of the year, Daily Mail *The haunting childlike illustrations by Laura Carlin add to the mysteriousness of it all. -- Melanie McDonagh * Evening Standard *a sliver of Nanny McPhee and a strong shadow of Roald Dahl’s favouring of the child view over the cynical adult, this is a beguiling treat. Part fable, part celebration of the limitlessness of childhood imagination, Carlin’s ever-shifting illustrations build an ethereal mood * The Best Children's Books of 2022, The Big Issue *The story captures the soaring freedom of imagination, alive to all children, too precious to be forgotten. It’s so beautifully told, the words sparkle, and Laura Carlin’s illustrations are magnificent. * Juno *The gentle moral of this story is that it is never too late to search for the things that make you happy in life. Every page is filled with colorful, soft-focus sketches that perfectly compliment the text. * SLC Reviews *Carlin's mixed-media illustrations employ a childlike style that features simple shapes, indistinct borders, and effective use of color. [...] While the story details may disturb some, Almond's lyrical text and intriguing ideas offer much food for thought. * Booklist *With hints of Roald Dahl and P.L. Travers, Almond’s brief, electrifying tale champions defying convention and embracing risk. * Publishers Weekly *If you have ever wondered what it might be like to fly, just like the birds all around us, to see the world from you above, to sprinkle a touch of magic into your life then The Woman Who Turned Children Into Birds will be the book that you will fall in love with. * Armadillo Magazine *Full of playful language, there’s a fable like feel to David Almond’s tale and Laura Carlin’s wonderful mixed media illustrations show an aura of light surrounding each transformation as it occurs. A story to revisit over and over with the possibility of new meaning emerging with each reading. * Red Reading Hub *gently and stubbornly idealistic about the spirit ready to soar within every child. * Just Imagine, Favourite Books of 2022 *It’s like being given an idealistic tale that’s secretly been wrapped up in a puzzle-box, and the wrapping is glorious. * Just Imagine *Featured in the October Previews -- Charlotte Eyre * The Bookseller *This extraordinary masterpiece, interwoven with subtle layers of meaning, is beautifully adorned with Carlin’s unmistakable mixed-media illustrations. It is a true classic that leaves an indelible mark, resonating with its harmonious rhythm and cohesive storytelling. * Books for Keeps *

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Book SynopsisA gripping mystery-adventure about a desperate search for identity by critically acclaimed author, Timothee de Fombelle.In a world between wars, Vango is on the cusp of taking priestly vows when he is suddenly made a fugitive. Fleeing from the police who blame him for murder, as well as more sinister forces with darker intentions, Vango attempts to trace the secrets of his shrouded past and prove his innocence before all is lost. This is a breathless and highly cinematic story that follows Vango from Scotland to the Soviet Union and from the rooftops of Paris to Nazi Germany. Centred on a mysterious, unforgettable, and romantic protagonist, Vango tells a thrilling story sure to captivate lovers of daring escapades and subversive literary heroes.Trade ReviewTimothee De Fombelle, Vango: Between Sky and Earth, Independent – Author of mesmerising Toby Alone, the French novelist has now come up with yet another utterly distinctive adventure story. Expertly translated by Sarah Ardizzone, this tall but continually gripping tale is set in the 1930s in an atmosphere reminiscent of pre-war French cinema at its most romantic… Satisfyingly long, with a plot that flits between time zones but is always easy to follow, this is simply too good to miss, with a sequel promised next year. * Independent *A beautifully inventive adventure novel, this story reminds me of nothing more than the unabridged version of The Count of Monte Cristo - but set in the 1900s and meant to be read by a younger audience. This is, by the way, the highest praise I can give to an adventure novel […] Vango has the same ingenuity, the same imagination, as Alexander Dumas's work, with a never-ending series of fantastic events that the incredibly talented main character negotiates with aplomb. […] It is de Fombelle's adept characterization that solidifies the real, poignant emotional underpinning of what might otherwise be a fluffy adventure novel. * The Globally Curious *

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Book SynopsisA winsome introduction to counting by the author and illustrator of Guess How Much I Love You.

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Book SynopsisFive-year-old Sophie finds that going to school and making friends is more difficult than running a farm! The ups and downs of Dick King-Smith's stoic, determined heroine will appeal to children and parents alike.A classic story for young readers by the beloved author of Babe.

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Book SynopsisJoin in with the famous nursery rhyme in this 25th anniversary edition of a bestselling bedtime favourite.A beautiful 25th anniversary edition of a bedtime favourite, this is Penny Dale''s warm, funny and much-loved take on the bouncy bedtime rhyme of ''Ten in the Bed''. With ten in the bed, it''s a bit of a squeeze! Roll over, roll over! But the little one gets cold all alone, and soon all ten are snuggled up and fast asleep. Children will love reading this famous rhyme and shouting out the crash, thud and bump noises bedtime has never been such fun!Trade ReviewA subtle variation on the traditional nursery song, illustrated with wonderfully warm pictures which are crammed with amusing details * Practical Parenting *Very young children will love exploring the detailed pictures and sounding the different noises each animal makes when falling out of the bed. * Practical Parenting *

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