Search results for ""Chicken House""

Codebreaker. Friend. Spy? A thrilling, nail-biting YA mystery with themes of friendship, loyalty, secrets, and a dash of romance. 'The appealing setting, nuanced and flawed heroines and engaging plot make this a gripping read' THE IRISH TIMES 'A tense and gripping period piece.' CHRIS SOUL 'Absolutely brilliant' FIONA SHARP, Waterstones Bookseller Wartime. Pearl and Ellen work at top-secret codebreaking HQ, Bletchley Park. Pearl is the youngest. A messenger at sixteen, she’s untidy, lively, bright, and half in love with the wrong boy, Richard. Her circle of friends overlaps with his – the dashing young men on their motorcycles who courier the secrets that Bletchley deciphers. Ellen is a codebreaker. Reserved, analytical and beautiful. She never expected to get close to a girl like Pearl – or fall for a chap like Dennis. But when tragedy strikes, their logical world is upended, with both friends caught in a spy plot that rocks the very heart of the war effort. Who can they turn to now? Who can they trust? And above all, can they unmask the traitor in their midst before it’s too late? Follows two young women, Pearl and Ellen, who are recruited to work at Bletchley Park during the Second World War Set in atmospheric 1940s England, The Secrets Act also explores serious historical themes Perfect for fans of Code Name Verity

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An action-packed swashbuckling tale for readers aged 8 and up! While helping in Grandpa's shop, Bramble discovers a strange scarlet mask. A tingling in her fingers tells her to try it on, but when she does she can't take it off . . . And when she looks in the mirror, the face of a famous highwayman Diamond Jack stares back. It seems Bramble has been chosen for a mission. Time to stand and deliver – your magic or your life! A thrilling highway-girl adventure with a magical twist from the brilliantly-named Anna Rainbow, author of Antigua de Fortune of the High Seas A fun, feminist, all-action adventure for ages 8 and up A deliciously familiar but wholly original mash-up of classic tales: shades of The Red Shoes, The Three Musketeers and Robin Hood Praise for ANTIGUA DE FORTUNE OF THE HIGH SEAS: 'Non-stop adventure' NICKI THORNTON, author of THE LAST CHANCE HOTEL 'A true salt-soaked swashbuckler of a story' LINDSAY GALVIN, author of DARWIN'S DRAGONS '[A] magical tale of pirates, magic and high adventure' DAN SMITH, author of NISHA'S WAR

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Book 2 in the New York Times bestselling series - perfect for curious readers! 'This book reminded me of some of the children’s books I grew up with, like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and The Phantom Tollbooth.' RICK RIORDAN, author of the PERCY JACKSON series on book 1 'Like the Potter books, this story goes beyond mere adventure' BOOKLIST on book 1 It should have been a celebration party, but now it's another mind-bending mission for the children of the Mysterious Benedict Society. Join Reynie, Kate, Sticky and Constance as they race across the globe by train, bicycle and ship to save their beloved Mr Benedict. It's a perilous journey that will test all their unusual talents ... Book 2 in the 4-book New York Times bestselling adventure series – ideal for children aged 10 and up Join a group of smart and resourceful junior sleuths as they solve a series of page-turning puzzles and mysteries Perfect for fans of Robin Stevens's MURDER MOST UNLADYLIKE series The adventure continues in book 3, THE MYSTERIOUS BENEDICT SOCIETY AND THE PRISONER'S DILEMMA

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The third and final adventure in Benjamin Read and Laura Trinder's magical Midnight Hour series! 'A fantastic magical adventure featuring a cast of Ghibli-esque characters, a feisty heroine and a hedgehog. I loved it.' M.G. LEONARD, author of BEETLE BOY on book 1 'Fans of Nevermoor will love this' THE BOOKSELLER on book 1 'I haven't enjoyed this kind of caper so much since Harry Potter' NEW STATESMAN on book 1 'Pure delight' THE GUARDIAN ON BOOK 1 Emily is locked out of the Midnight Hour, and things have grown dangerously dark in Victorian London. Her friends and family are on the run from the terrifying Midnight Hunt, while the foul Make Britain Dark Again party schemes to break the spell that keeps both worlds safe. It's going to take more than just Emily's big mouth to fix this one. But how's a girl meant to save the day (and night) when she's all out of snacks and her possibly-magic pocket hedgehog is hibernating? The ingeniously-plotted finale to the much-loved Midnight Hour trilogy, which began with The Midnight Hour and The Midnight Howl A hilarious, spooky adventure full of genuine scares and belly laughs! Coraline meets A Wrinkle in Time: all the makings of a modern classic

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A mesmerising Gothic mystery from Costa Award-shortlisted author Nicholas Bowling. 'Nicholas Bowling is a thrilling writer' THE TELEGRAPH To the horror of young gravedigger, Ned, bodysnatchers have been visiting his churchyard in the dead of night. Until now, he'd been daydreaming about another visitor – daughter of the manor, Obedience Wellrest. But sixteen-year-old Obedience has troubles of her own: her loving but overbearing father, and his wish to see her married to a rich man of science, Phineas Mordaunt. When Mordaunt starts to poke his nose into her family history – in particular, the ruinous research of late Uncle Herbert – Obedience enters into a dangerous game with Death, and Ned might be the only person who can save her … A mesmerising tale of magic, death and science, wrapped up in a delicious Gothic mystery Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell meets Dangerous Remedy – for young adult readers From highly acclaimed Costa Award-shortlisted author, Nicholas Bowling

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Now a movie on HBO Max starring Euphoria star Barbie Ferreira! 'A remarkable debut about the long and winding road of adolescence. Hilarious journeys and heartbreaking choices.' STEPHEN CHBOSKY, author of The Perks of Being a Wallflower Veronica never thought she’d want to fail a test – until she finds herself staring at a plastic stick with two solid pink lines. She’s pregnant. With her college future fading before her eyes, Ronnie has to make a tough choice – an abortion. But the closest clinic is over nine hundred miles away. Faced with a treacherous boyfriend and no car, Ronnie turns to the one person who won’t judge her: her ex-best friend Bailey. What could go wrong? Not much, apart from stolen cars, crazed ex-boyfriends, aliens, and the pain and heartbreak of a broken relationship … In this warm and darkly funny road trip story, Veronica and Bailey drive a thousand miles to an out-of-state abortion clinic – rediscovering their friendship in the process. A sharply-observed, bittersweet road-trip story for our times; perfect for fans of Booksmart and Juno. Female friendship is at the heart of the story: Veronica teams up with her ex-best pal and social misfit, Bailey. A YA Thelma-and-Louise story with a strong social and reproductive justice theme.

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The action-packed sequel to The Boy in the Post: perfect for fans of the Adventures on Trains series! 'Energetic, lively and charming' READING ZONE on The Boy in the Post When Dotty moves house, she's delighted to discover the post in her village is delivered by animals trained by local children. This means her family could have their entry into the prestigious Golden Udder ice cream awards delivered by cows! But training cows is the easy part! Dotty soon discovers that rival sundae-makers will do almost anything to take the prize . . . A warm, adventurous and action-packed sequel to The Boy in the Post - though can be easily read as a standalone story A brillantly-imagined fantasy world with a vintage feel and a trio of characters you’ll long to be friends with As a child, Holly was a lead actress in ITV’s original Worst Witch series! Perfect for fans of M.G. Leonard and Sam Sedgman’s Adventures on Trains series

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Every ten years in Wil's home town of Lennon, California,one person is brought back to life for thirty days. Wil bringsback her ex-best friend Annie LeBlanc. Discovering a loophole thatmeans Annie can stay alive, Wil might have to face some difficulttruths about their past friendship to make things work in justone summer.

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Nush is maharani of an Indian kingdom. When a divine emerald isstolen from them, Nush stows away to England to ask Queen Victoriafor help. This is her moment to shine and bring backthe emerald that will heal the kingdom . . .

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A heartwarming, exciting story of friendship, wonder and dance from Waterstones Prize-shortlisted author Efua Traoré! Jomi’s mum left when he was little to make a new life for them in Lagos, the city of dreams. When Jomi doesn’t hear from her, he decides to follow. His only starting place is a TV dance competition that his mum used to love. Things go badly for the boy and his pet bushbaby, until he meets a crew of street kids. Together, they come up with a one-chance idea to find Jomi’s mother – and make their own dreams come true. A brand new novel full of joy and wonder by the author of Children of the Quicksands, shortlisted for the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize Selected as The Times Children's Book of the Year 2023 A contemporary adventure of destiny, friendship and dance set in the vibrant city of Lagos, Nigeria Jomi hopes to find his missing mum by dancing on a TV talent show in a story which offers emotional pull and a lot of fun! PRAISE FOR CHILDREN OF THE QUICKSANDS: ‘A joy of a book: rich, warm, powerful storytelling’ KATHERINE RUNDELL ‘A thrilling adventure bright with the gorgeous colours of Nigeria – glorious!’ JASBINDER BILAN ‘An excellent book … rich in tradition and realism.’ HANNAH GOLD ‘[A] beautifully evoked story’ THE TELEGRAPH

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From the bestselling author of Darwin's Dragons comes a high-stakes aquatic adventure, perfect for fans of The Murderer's Ape! England, 1893, and aquarium fever is at its height. Twelve-year-old Vinnie Fyfe works in the tea-shop at Brighton aquarium, and waits for her milliner mother to return from Paris. The arrival of a giant octopus changes her life for ever. Discovering a talent for art, Vinnie begins to draw the extraordinary beast. She soon realises she can communicate with the octopus through colour and – as a gripping mystery begins to unfold – discovers what true courage really means ... The second middle-grade historical adventure by critically acclaimed Lindsay Galvin, author of Darwin's Dragons A gripping Victorian mystery with a touching connection between a young girl and an octopus at its heart Strong STEM and natural history themes with an underwater twist Effortlessly blends exciting adventure with a rip-roaring historical mystery and non-fiction elements PRAISE FOR DARWIN'S DRAGONS: 'A striking and original adventure ... just the sort of story I love.' EMMA CARROLL 'WHAT a voyage! [Darwin's Dragons] is everything you hope it will be ...' LUCY STRANGE '[A] beautifully fictionalised story' THE TELEGRAPH

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A glorious boarding school adventure set in Nigeria - a story of friendship, empathy and fighting for what you believe in. 'What a joyful, vibrant story! A book for the heart' EFUA TRAORE, author of Children of the Quicksands Jummy has won a place at the River School, the finest girls' boarding school in Nigeria. Nothing can dampen her spirits, not even when she learns that her best friend Caro won’t be joining her. By the Shine-Shine River, school is everything Jummy dreamt of, with friendly new girls, midnight feasts and sporting prizes - but when Caro suddenly arrives at the school to work, not to learn, Jummy must bring all her friends together to help. From a fantastic new talent in middle-grade contemporary fiction, Sabine Adeyinka, based on her own experience of attending boarding school in Nigeria A joyful, glorious collision of classic boarding-school story with vibrant 1990s Nigeria Irrepressible Jummy investigates an intriguing mystery as her best friend from home turns up at the school

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From the author of The Last Chance Hotel comes a brand new fantastical mystery series! Praise for THE LAST CHANCE HOTEL: 'Blending magical adventure with Golden Age crime mystery, this delightfully atmospheric spin-off from the author of The Last Chance Hotel confirms Thornton's place as one of the most original children's writers around.' WATERSTONES 'A jolly, atmospheric mystery.' THE TIMES Magic must never be misused ... When there's a murder in the village and a hag is heard howling at the local inn, secret witch Raven Charming realizes she could have a rival – one who practises the worst kind of magic. With the help of amateur sleuth, Mortimer Scratch, and Nightshade, a talking cat with a feline sense of detection, she sets out to solve what's been going on ... A magical murder mystery perfect for fans of Robin Stevens and Harry Potter Book 1 in a new spin-off series from the author of The Last Chance Hotel, chosen as Waterstones Book of the Month and nominated for the CILIP Carnegie Award Features fan-favourite Nightshade as the star of her very own mystery!

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A stunning edition of Kevin Brooks' celebrated novel - a truly original, powerful and emotional story from the author of The Bunker Diary! ' ... will keep you gripped.' The Observer "... a cult novel." Independent "An immensely clever murder mystery." Literary Review Martyn hated his dad, but he never meant for him to die. And now he has to tell the police what happened ... or hide the body. Simple, right? Not quite. One story leads to another. Secrets and lies become darker and crazier. And then everything shatters. Life is never easy, but death is even harder ... A stunning reissue of the Branford Boase-winning novel from Kevin Brooks, author of The Bunker Diary; also shortlisted for the CILIP Carnegie Medal. Published in over 20 countries and over 250,000 copies sold worldwide!

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The second book in Cornelia Funke's internationally celebrated trilogy – magical, thrilling and mesmerising. 'I don't think I've ever read anything that conveys so well the joys, terrors and pitfalls of reading' Diana Wynne Jones Although a year has passed, not a day goes by without Meggie thinking of the extraordinary events of Inkheart, and the story whose characters strode out of the pages, and changed her life for ever. But for Dustfinger, the fire-eater, torn from his world of words, the need to return has become desperate. When he finds a crooked storyteller with the magical ability to read him back, he sets in motion a dangerous reversal that sees the characters of Inkheart transported to a charmed Inkworld, about to be fought over by rival rebels and princes ... A thrilling and magical series about stories and the imagination they inspire Book 1, Inkheart, is now a major movie starring Andy Serkis, Paul Bettany and Brendan Fraser! The adventure continues in book 3, Inkdeath Cornelia Funke is the critically-acclaimed, internationally bestselling author of Dragon Rider and The Thief Lord

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

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A new look for the first book in Roderick Gordon and Brian Williams's bestselling series! 'It's well paced, exciting and - in places - frightening and bloody.' THE GUARDIAN Fourteen-year-old Will Burrows lives with his family in London. He has little in common with them except for a passion for digging which he shares with his father. When his father suddenly disappears down an unknown tunnel, Will decides to investigate with his friend Chester. Soon they find themselves deep underground, where they unearth a dark and terrifying secret - a secret which may cost them their lives ... A spectacular new edition of the first novel in Roderick Gordon and Brian Williams's bestselling series, reissued to celebrate Chicken House's 20th anniversary. Classic subterranean science-fiction - with a hint of horror. Over a million copies sold worldwide in 39 countries.

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Now on Netflix! A gorgeous new edition of the first book in Cornelia Funke's internationally celebrated trilogy – magical, thrilling and mesmerising. 'I don't think I've ever read anything that conveys so well the joys, terrors and pitfalls of reading.' Diana Wynne Jones, author of Howl's Moving Castle 'One of the outstanding children's novels of the year.' The Times 'A breathtakingly fast-moving tale.' The Independent Meggie loves stories, but her father, Mo, hasn't read to her since her mother disappeared. When a stranger knocks at their door, Mo is forced to reveal an extraordinary secret – when he reads aloud, words come alive, and dangerous characters step out of the pages. Suddenly Meggie is living the kind of adventure she has only read about in books, but this one will change her life for ever ... A thrilling and magical adventure about stories and the imagination they inspire Also a major film from the makers of The Lord of the Rings, starring Andy Serkis, Paul Bettany and Brendan Fraser! The adventure continues in books 2 and 3, Inkspell and Inkdeath Cornelia Funke is the critically-acclaimed, internationally bestselling author of Dragon Rider and The Thief Lord

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Lights, camera ... kidnap! 'Dreams of stardom; sibling rivalry & a gripping ending, Sister to a Star has it all & I gobbled up the entire book' BONKERS ABOUT BOOKS Evie is forever crossing swords with her twin. While she practises her after-school fencing, Tallulah is winning movie auditions. Neither of them could have imagined how their worlds would collide, but when Tallulah goes to Hollywood Evie goes too – as her sister’s identical stand-in. But that changes, when the film needs some all-action sword-play. Soon Evie’s the one enjoying the limelight – that is, until Tallulah goes missing ... An action-packed sibling adventure of twin rivalry, glamour and skulduggery set against the bright lights of Hollywood! Written by ex-Olympic fencer, Eloise Smith Features a diverse ensemble cast of brave and spirited kids you can't help but root for!

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The third and final edge-of-your-seat adventure in Maz Evans's laugh-out-loud funny Vi Spy series! PRAISE FOR THE SERIES: 'Twists, turns, spies and surprises. What more do you want? Tears? Laughter? Maz Evans delivers them all.' FRANK COTTRELL BOYCE 'Vi Spy: Licence to Chill is brilliant – knockabout, laugh-a-minute, heartfelt fun' ROSS MONTGOMERY 'Wildly hilarious' THE GUARDIAN Vi has tried to save the Earth before … and failed. Now, her world faces a terrible threat: her Gran is seriously ill. Time is not on their side. And with the world's number one enemy laughing at them from space, Vi and her family blast off on an adventure that is truly out of this world ... IT'S PURE GOLD! The third and final book in a brilliant middle-grade comedy adventure series; book 1, Vi Spy: Licence to Chill, was shortlisted for the Indie Book Awards in 2021. From the bestselling author of the Who Let the Gods Out? series; book 1 shortlisted for the Waterstones Book Prize 2018. A laugh-out-loud funny, high-octane spy story perfect for readers aged 8 and up Perfectly combines humour and heart: addresses the realities of being caught between divorcing parents Praise for the WHO LET THE GODS OUT? series: 'I totally fell in love with Elliot and the gods, and I think you're all going to love them too.' ROBIN STEVENS 'One of the funniest new voices in children's literature. The laughs come thick and fast' DAVID SOLOMONS '[A] relentlessly witty, fast-paced middle grade adventure' M.G. LEONARD

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A brand new, funny and quirky story based on E.A. Wyke-Smith's classic, the inspiration for J.R.R. Tolkien's The Hobbit, featuring wonderful illustrations from Melissa Castrillón! PRAISE FOR THE HALLOWEEDS: 'A highly entertaining mix of mystery, adventure and gory detail' DAILY EXPRESS 'Imaginations will soar as Veronica Cossanteli ... brings us a brilliant chiller-thriller story just made for dark autumn nights' LANCASHIRE EVENING POST Pip and Flora are running away from the Sunny Bay Home for Superfluous and Accidentally Parentless Children when they discover the Marvellous Land of Snergs. Here they befriend forgetful but lovable snerg, Gorbo. He will lead them home – if they can decide where home really is, and if Gorbo can remember how to get there. • Widely recognised as the inspiration for The Hobbit, a forgotten classic from 1927 is updated and brought beautifully back to life by acclaimed children’s writer Veronica Cossanteli, supported by the family of the original author, E. A. Wyke-Smith. • Gorgeous cover and interior illustrations by Melissa Castrillon.

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A thrilling Gothic tale from the author of Our Castle by the Sea, shortlisted for the Waterstones Children's Book Prize. 'Told in deft and luminous language, The Ghost of Gosswater is storytelling at its very best.' Kiran Millwood Hargrave, author of THE GIRL OF INK & STARS 'Family secrets, a ghost girl and a forbidding manor house that goes up in smoke ... You can't help rooting for Agatha in this spooky, addictive tale of friendship and family.' THE TIMES 'Eerie, shimmering, unputdownable' HILARY MCKAY, winner of the Costa Book Award The Lake District, 1899 The Earl is dead and cruel Cousin Clarence has inherited everything. Twelve-year-old Lady Agatha Asquith is cast out of Gosswater Hall to live in a tiny, tumbledown cottage with a stranger who claims to be her father. Aggie is determined to discover her real identity, but she is not alone on her quest for the truth. On the last day of the year, when the clock strikes midnight, a mysterious girl of light creeps through the crack in time; she will not rest until the dark, terrible secrets of the past have been revealed ... The third novel by acclaimed bestselling author Lucy Strange, author of The Secret of Nightingale Wood and Our Castle by the Sea A thrilling gothic adventure for young readers aged 9 and up – perfect for fans of Emma Carroll and Frances Hardinge Follows strong-willed heroine Agatha Gosswater as she untangles the dark mystery of her own past, with the backdrop of the eerie Gosswater Lake

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A dazzling mystery from the bestselling author of the Mysterious Benedict Society, now a major TV series on Disney+! 'A timeless fantasy ... a stretching and satisfying read' THE GUARDIAN 'Full of great excitement and wonderful invention' THE NEW YORK TIMES 'This captivating page-turner, with layers of secrecy and intrigue, is a compelling read' BOOKTRUST When Reuben discovers an old pocket watch, he soon realizes it holds an incredible power: it can turn you invisible for fifteen minutes. He can't resist the lure of disappearance: for a time, he can vanish from the despotic regime of New Umbra. But the watch's power is even more extraordinary than he imagines. Soon, he's on the run from New Umbra's ruler, The Smoke, who's determined to possess it for himself ... A dazzling new story from Trenton Lee Stewart, author of the New York Times bestselling Mysterious Benedict Society series – now on Disney+ Fantastical elements and a truly original setting form the backdrop for this twisty-turny mystery Includes quirky interiors illustrations

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Arianwyn is back for one final adventure in the third Apprentice Witch book - Studio Ghibli meets Diana Wynne Jones! Praise for book 1: 'Reminded me of the best of the Worst Witch books' ABI ELPHINSTONE 'The Apprentice Witch is entirely more charming, adventurous, and full of heart than a book has any right to be.' TRENTON LEE STEWART 'A delightful, witty and vivid story' KIRAN MILLWOOD HARGRAVE The war is over and Arianwyn has discovered the secret of the quiet glyphs, but her troubles are far from over. Her day-to-day work as Lull's witch is tricky enough: winter has set in, bringing bad weather, ice imps and befuddling Yule traditions. But when Arianwyn's grandmother is abducted by the traitor on the Council, our witch faces her greatest challenge yet. What really makes a witch come true? Our lovable heroine is about to find out ... A bewitching series set in a world of domestic magic – a refreshingly small-world fantasy perfect for readers aged 9 and up. A spellbinding read, tapping into important themes of overcoming failure and building self-esteem. Filled with thrills, pesky magical conundrums, outlandish creatures and an enchanted forest, yet retains its warm soul and earthy charm!

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Arianwyn is back for another thrilling adventure in the second APPRENTICE WITCH book - Studio Ghibli meets Diana Wynne Jones! Praise for book 1: 'Reminded me of the best of the Worst Witch books' ABI ELPHINSTONE 'The Apprentice Witch is entirely more charming, adventurous, and full of heart than a book has any right to be.' TRENTON LEE STEWART 'A delightful, witty and vivid story' KIRAN MILLWOOD HARGRAVE During an eventful holiday in Kingsport, Arianwyn is recruited for an important mission: to retrieve the Book of Quiet Glyphs from its hiding place in the Great Wood. But as she returns home to Lull, feyling refugees gather outside the town walls and hex plagues the forest. As tensions lead to fall-outs with her friends, town squabbles and magical mishaps, Arianwyn faces a sobering truth: she alone can find the Book, and wield its secrets ... A bewitching series set in a world of domestic magic – a refreshingly small-world fantasy perfect for readers aged 9 and up. A spellbinding read, tapping into important themes of overcoming failure and building self-esteem. Filled with thrills, pesky magical conundrums, outlandish creatures and an enchanted forest, yet retains its warm soul and earthy charm!

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A rip-roaring historical adventure set at the time of the Guy Fawkes' Gunpowder Plot – winner of the Historical Association Young Quills Award! ' ... a wonderfully explosive adventure set in the turbulent year of the gunpowder plot in Black Powder with impossibly divided loyalties.' JULIA GOLDING, AUTHOR OF THE DIAMOND OF DRURY LANE 'With its constant reversals and twists and turns, Tom's story is almost as complex as the pliot and counter-plot of the Gunpowder Treason itself ... The writing is lively and the pace never flags.' HISTORICAL NOVEL SOCIETY England, 1605: 12-year-old Tom must save his father from hanging. He falls in with a mysterious stranger – the Falcon – who promises to help him in exchange for his service. But on the long journey to London, Tom discovers the Falcon’s true mission – and a plot to blow up Parliament with barrels of black powder. Tom faces a terrible decision: secure his father’s release, or stop the assassination of the king … A rip-roaring, action-packed life-and-death quest, packed with history and adventure Set at the time of the Gunpowder Plot and featuring Guy Fawkes – perfect for Bonfire Night and beyond Ideal for readers aged nine and up Check out more historical adventures by Ally Sherrick: THE BURIED CROWN, VITA AND THE GLADIATOR and THE QUEEN'S FOOL

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The critically-acclaimed first novel from historical fiction star Lucy Strange - a perfect gift for readers aged 9 and up. CHOSEN AS ONE OF AMAZON.COM'S BEST MIDDLE-GRADE BOOKS OF 2017 CHOSEN IN THE TELEGRAPH'S TOP 10 BOOKS OF 2016 'Perfect in so many ways.' EMMA CARROLL 'Tender, funny, devastating and just about word perfect.' NATASHA FARRANT, winner of the Costa Book Award 'Outstanding' THE BOOKSELLER 1919. Mama is ill. Father has taken a job abroad. Nanny Jane is too busy to pay any attention to Henrietta and the things she sees – or thinks she sees – in the shadows of their new home, Hope House. All alone, with only stories for company, Henry discovers that Hope House is full of strange secrets: a forgotten attic, ghostly figures, mysterious firelight that flickers in the trees beyond the garden. One night she ventures into the darkness of Nightingale Wood. What she finds there will change her whole world ... A beautifully told debut with a classic feel, incorporating themes of family, loss and childhood loneliness. Ideal for fans of Emma Carroll and Hilary McKay. A perfect gift for readers aged 9 and up.

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The spectacular finale to the BATTLE OF THE BEETLES series – perfect for fans of Roald Dahl! 'Truly great storytelling.' MICHAEL MORPURGO on BEETLE BOY 'I predict Beetle-mania' THE TIMES on BEETLE BOY 'Roald Dahl meets 101 Dalmatians in a rollicking ride, full of adventure with vivid characters' EXPRESS on BEETLE BOY From a secret Biome in the jungle, Lucretia Cutter plans to wreak wickedness on the world unless Darkus, Virginia and Bertolt can find a way to stop her. If they fail, she'll mass an army of giant Frankenstein beetles – and the planet will never be the same again. Humanity is under siege. The future depends on three children and their beetles ... The third and final book in MG Leonard's acclaimed trilogy, which began with Beetle Boy and Beetle Queen! Featuring exotic beetles, a daring quest, a mixture of bold male and female characters and a truly venomous villain The story follows Darkus, Bertolt and Virginia – and their beetle pals – as they investigate the wicked ‘Beetle Queen’ Lucretia From the author of the Adventure on Trains series, co-written with Sam Sedgman

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It's the end of chocolate - forever! At least, until Jelly can solve the mystery of the great chocoplot ... 'With an excellent cast of characters, laugh-out-loud moments, and witty and sharp observations, this is a great choice for fans of Dahl and Walliams.' THE GUARDIAN 'A funny choccy caper that will have you laughing out loud!' WRD MAGAZINE 'This wonderful Roald Dahlian adventure presents an assortment box of hilarious and eccentric characters that will be devoured by little chocolate lovers everywhere.' SOUTH WALES EVENING POST Jelly and her family live in Chompton-on-de-Lyte, where everyone loves a Chocablocka bar or two - so when the end of chocolate is announced, she can't believe it. Determined to investigate, Jelly and her gran follow a trail of clues to a posh chocolate shop and its owner, the pompous Garibaldi Chocolati. Gari's suspiciously smug, despite his failing business and yucky chocolate. Is it really the chocopocalypse, or is there a chocoplot afoot? An exciting, laugh-out-loud funny adventure for children aged 7 and up Readers will relish the terrifying premise: what if all chocolate was to disappear? Features illustrations by Lalalimola Stars a truly ghastly villain – think evil mastermind meets Willy Wonka! – and a down-to-earth heroine with a sidekick grandma

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From the critically acclaimed author of Children of the Quicksands - shortlisted for the Waterstones Children's Book Prize - comes a breathtaking magical adventure ... Kuki refuses to believe in the curse of the Abiku. Her destiny is not to die young! Her biggest problem right now is moving house and fitting in at her new school. One evening while exploring, Kuki spies a driveway lined with giant palm trees. It leads to an abandoned beach house of shadows and scattered sea shells. And in the fading light, she meets a girl called Enilo. They become friends – the best of friends. Until Kuki makes a terrifying discovery ... The second novel by Times/Chicken House Competition-winning Efua Traore, author of critically acclaimed Children of the Quicksands A beautifully evoked middle-grade adventure set in the author’s native Nigeria and drawing from rich Yoruba mythology A story about the power of female friendship over fear and superstition PRAISE FOR CHILDREN OF THE QUICKSANDS: 'A joy of a book: rich, warm, powerful storytelling' KATHERINE RUNDELL 'A thrilling adventure bright with the gorgeous colours of Nigeria – glorious!' JASBINDER BILAN '[A] beautifully evoked story' THE TELEGRAPH 'Traore's storytelling feels almost otherworldly ... exhilarating' THE TIMES

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In a remote Nigerian village, thirteen-year-old Simi is desperate to uncover a family secret ... WINNER OF THE TIMES/CHICKEN HOUSE CHILDREN'S FICTION COMPETITION 2019 SHORTLISTED FOR THE WATERSTONES CHILDREN'S BOOK PRIZE 2022 'A joy of a book: rich, warm, powerful storytelling' KATHERINE RUNDELL 'A thrilling adventure bright with the gorgeous colours of Nigeria – glorious!' JASBINDER BILAN 'An excellent book ... rich in tradition and realism.' HANNAH GOLD, AUTHOR OF THE LAST BEAR '[A] beautifully evoked story' THE TELEGRAPH City girl Simi is sent to stay with her long-lost grandmother in a remote Nigerian village. There's no TV, internet or phone. Not a single human-made sound can be heard at night, just the noise of birds and animals rustling in the dark forest outside. Her witchlike grandmother dispenses advice and herbal medicine to the village, but she's tight lipped about their family history. Something must have happened, but what? Determined to find out, Simi disobeys her grandmother and goes exploring. Caught in the sinking red quicksand of a forbidden lake, her fantastical journey begins ... A richly imagined magical fantasy adventure set in West Africa by a prize-winning new voice in children’s writing. Introduces readers to Yoruba myths and legends whilst showcasing the wealth of culture, traditions, adventure, fun, joy, celebrations, music, pride and love found in Nigeria. Beautifully explores themes of grief and belonging. Efua is the winner of the Commonwealth Short Story Prize 2018. More praise for Children of the Quicksands: 'Gorgeous ... an enthralling story' ABI ELPHINSTONE '[A] terrific debut novel' YABA BADOE 'Traoré’s storytelling feels almost otherworldly ... exhilarating' THE TIMES 'A stunning debut' THE SCOTSMAN 'Full of secrets and myths' THE OBSERVER

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Plots, spies and inventors abound in an epic adventure set between London and Paris ... Mischief is afoot, and Queen Victoria is not amused. Her stalker must be stopped. Forget the cavalry – this is a job for Her Majesty’s League of Remarkable Young Ladies! The League’s newest recruit is Winifred Weatherby, a feisty girl-genius and gadget-maker. Winnie’s creations are remarkable, but is she clever enough to protect the Queen – and achieve her own dream of winning the top prize in Paris for young inventors . . . ? A debut Victorian romp and the winner of the Times/Chicken House Institution of Engineering and Technology Prize, 2021 A celebration of girls in STEM – and the hurdles they overcome Combines fact and fiction: the novel draws on real-life historical inventions and events Perfect for readers aged 9 and up

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A sparkling magical debut, set in a fantastical Egypt full of flying carpets and mythical creatures! At home in Cairo, an unexpected gift arrives for Aliya, promising to grant her greatest wish – to know more about her lost parents. To her surprise, she’s whisked off by flying carpet to a parallel Egypt, where she’s enrolled at an academy for . . . time-travellers! But while she’s there, an enemy is watching – a master of forbidden magic. If they can unlock Aliya’s inherited talent, they can change history forever . . . A stunning adventure story for readers aged 9 and up Shortlisted for the Times/Chicken House Children’s Fiction Competition 2021 For fans of Nura and the Immortal Palace and The Kingdom Over the Sea ‘An epic adventure packed with richness, history and a brilliant new magical school!’ ZOHRA NABI, Author of The Kingdom Over the Sea

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An extraordinary new teen YA story set in the same world of Once Upon A Fever – perfect for fans of Philip Pullman. The city of Lundain is battling strange illnesses brought on by excessive emotion. The Guild of Medicine wants cures; the Guild of Finance sees only opportunity. In this malignant world, two boys struggle to succeed. Kitt, who is suffering from Midas-fingers and turns whatever he touches to gold with dangerous consequences, and Os, a young doctor who has an unusual ability – to read the feelings of others. Unless the boys can work together, a toxic disaster will end it all . . . A stunning teen urban fantasy set five years after the events of the original and critically-acclaimed Once Upon a Fever Can be read as a standalone story, as well as a companion novel Two new characters navigate a disaster in this unique, enchanting alternate-London, in a world in which feelings cause supernatural illnesses Perfect for fans of Philip Pullman and Laini Taylor PRAISE FOR ONCE UPON A FEVER: 'A dark, enthralling fantasy with a vividly imagined setting' GUARDIAN 'This is a book to escape into' IRISH TIMES 'Richly imagined and deftly constructed' WATERSTONES, BEST TEEN AND YA BOOKS OF 2022

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A fiercely original verse novel for middle-grade readers and beyond from Zana Fraillon, the Carnegie Award-shortlisted author of The Bone Sparrow. 'Tender and gritty' THE SYDNEY MORNING HERALD 'Beautifully written … ambitious and absorbing' BOOKS + PUBLISHING Be strong. Be fierce. Life is more than a concrete floor. Scruffity is born into a harsh, grey world. What he yearns for most is Family. But no one wants him. Just as his chances of adoption grow thin, Scruffity is set free by a boy as unwanted as he is. He learns how to run, to dig, to howl and, biggest of all, to love. But then tragedy strikes ... How does a dog find his way home when he never had one to begin with? A heartfelt, wondefully written and totally compelling story of love and belonging Told through the eyes of a young pup, Scruffity, who will tug at your heartstrings Themes of friendship, loss and hope are woven through a gripping narrative Stunning illustrations by Sean Buckingham

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Dear Nose-Pickers, are you well? Good. Then come closer. For I'm about to tell you a right slimer of a tale ... In it, there's a bogey monster, two best friends, four daredevil slugs, a neighbour so wicked she'll give you the willy-willy-woo-woos and a castle with secret chambers. Will it end happily? No ... Yes ... Sorry, I don't know! You'd better ask the cabaret-singing spider ... A fantastic slimer of a tale by the hilarious Anna Brooke Laugh-out-loud funny – Frankenstein meets bogeys! Perfect for fans of Who Let the Gods Out?, Mr Gum and Charlie Changes into a Chicken

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A post-apocalyptic rom-com perfect for fans of Adam Silvera. 'Could not have adored My Love Life and the Apocalypse any more.' CYNTHIA MURPHY, AUTHOR OF WIN LOSE KILL DIE 'The most fun you'll have in an apocalypse!' BRIANNA BOURNE, AUTHOR OF YOU & ME AT THE END OF THE WORLD 'A perfect blend of romance, humour and dark dystopia, Melissa Welliver has created something fun, thought-provoking and completely unique.' AMY MCCAW, AUTHOR OF MINA AND THE UNDEAD 'Wry, inventive, and heart-warming all at once' NADIA MIKAIL, AUTHOR OF THE CATS WE MEET ALONG THE WAY Planet Earth Sucks. Humans have gone and cities are empty, looked after by bots. But not all robots are machines. Echo is part-human, his heart ruled by an unreliable E-Mote chip which means he's pretty much a normal boy surviving on canned beans. Living his best life. Then a space-pod crash-lands in his neighbourhood with a girl on board. Pandora. She's his last hope, and apparently he's hers - if they really are all that's left alive ... A highly original and uplifting YA love story/science fiction mash-up with a slow-burn romance Set in an abandoned but fully maintained New York City where the characters live out all our empty mall dreams A thrilling adventure with plenty of unexpected twists and turns – and a dash of darkness YA readers will love Echo’s vintage 90s-00s culture obsession!

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A magical, thrilling pirate adventure: fun, fantastical and totally unputdownable! '[A] magical tale of pirates, magic and high adventure!' DAN SMITH 'Non-stop adventure, loved all the magic lurking beneath the sea.' NICKI THORNTON Tiggy has always had the ocean in her blood - and lately, she's been dreaming of mermaids - but she's a high-born girl on the Isle of Fortune, forced to wear dresses, attend balls and (worst of all) comb her wild curls. But then the Pirate King strikes, wielding deadly turquoise magic, and Tiggy's younger brother is stolen - along with every boy on the island. Tiggy knows it is time to claim her destiny, take to the high seas and rescue the boys of Fortune ... A spellbinding, hugely exciting pirate adventure: fun, feminist, classic in feel and totally unputdownable. Perfect for fans of Pirates of the Caribbean! Oli is co-founder and executive producer at Blue Zoo, a BAFTA-winning film animation company - bringing a brilliantly cinematic and visual feel to Antigua de Fortune.

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From Costa Award-shortlisted author Nicholas Bowling comes a tale of adventure, myth and music to make your heart sing ... 'Cast its spell over me from the first page ... it really is my perfect book.' Jasbinder Bilan, author of ASHA & THE SPIRIT BIRD 'Nicholas Bowling is a thrilling writer.' THE TELEGRAPH Oran lives on Little Drum, where music is everything. Every islander has a birth instrument and a life song - and the ancestors, called ghasts, linger to hear the music. But when the Duchess arrives from the mainland bringing orders of silence, she threatens the ghasts' existence, the very soul of the community. When Oran hears of a mythical instrument with the power to manipulate hearts, she brings her ghast best friend, Alick, on a quest to find it, play it, and change the Duchess's mind ... From the author of the Costa Children's Book Award-shortlisted In the Shadow of the Heroes comes a thrilling Celtic-inspired fantasy adventure. The adventure and magic of Neil Gaiman’s Stardust with a Hebridean-inspired fantasy setting and lovable characters reminiscent of Pixar’s Brave. A story about how music has the power to reveal, to inspire, and to bind people together.

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The second instalment in Emma Read's fun, fresh spider adventure series! PRAISE FOR MILTON THE MIGHTY: 'A charming and thoughtful read' THE SCOTSMAN Milton’s superstardom is stressing him out: the events, the glamour, the adoring fans! Secretly, Zoe, Audrey and Ralph think he’s turned into … well … a bit of a diva. So when Dad and Greta plan a trip to Hawaii, Zoe knows she has to take her best spider pals along for the ride: they all need a break. But with a live volcano, an endangered spider species, an unscrupulous entrepreneur and Milton’s ego to contend with, this is hardly a holiday … Follows lovable Milton and his friends as they travel to Hawaii to tackle the plight of the happy-face spiders. Themes of environment and conservation alongside fame, social media and anxiety – a positive feel-good read for kids aged 7+.

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A delightful story of friendship and caring for all creatures - perfect for fans of Dick King-Smith 'Packed full of fun, adventure and wacky humour' BOOKTRUST 'I was thoroughly charmed by this very funny debut about a managerie of "extinctly" unexpected creatures.' THE BOOKSELLER George loves to help out at hidden Wormestall farm, even though it's full of extinctly scary creatures, like the dodo in a dog bed and the dinosaurs in the duck pond. When Mortifer the giant basilisk goes missing, it's up to George to find him before wicked taxidermist Diamon Pye can add him to her stuffed animal collection ... A funny, exciting and anarchic debut for ages 7-11, now reissued with a gorgeous new cover. Delicious storytelling reminiscent of Dick King-Smith, Eva Ibbotson or Dodie Smith's The Hundred and One Dalmations. Themes of friendship and caring for all creatures, and starring an unlikely small boy hero.

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The second adventure in Maz Evans's laugh-out-loud funny Vi Spy series! PRAISE FOR THE SERIES: 'Twists, turns, spies and surprises. What more do you want? Tears? Laughter? Maz Evans delivers them all.' FRANK COTTRELL BOYCE 'Wildly hilarious' THE GUARDIAN Vi is failing at top spy school Rimmington Hall – even though the school motto is ‘Failure is Not an Option’. To make it worse, nearly-stepbrother Russell Sprout is an A* student. Worst of all, Vi’s shadowy nemesis Umbra is still at large. Can Vi unveil the arch-villain before she gets expelled and her parents ground her for ever? She’ll need the help of old friends and new, including 9-year-old super-hacker Missy Fit and BFF Tamina, who aims to save the world in a different way … The second book in a brilliant middle-grade comedy adventure series; follows book 1, Vi Spy: Licence to Chill, which was shortlisted for the Indie Book Awards in 2021. From the bestselling author of the Who Let the Gods Out? series; book 1 shortlisted for the Waterstones Book Prize 2018. A laugh-out-loud funny, high-octane spy story perfect for readers aged 8 and up. Perfectly combines humour and heart: addresses the realities of being caught between divorcing parents. Praise for the WHO LET THE GODS OUT? series: 'I totally fell in love with Elliot and the gods, and I think you're all going to love them too.' ROBIN STEVENS 'One of the funniest new voices in children's literature. The laughs come thick and fast' DAVID SOLOMONS '[A] relentlessly witty, fast-paced middle grade adventure' M.G. LEONARD

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Paddington meets Mary Poppins in this modern-day family adventure from writer and illustrator Sarah Horne! 'Adorable fun!' SARAH MCINTYRE 'An upbeat read full of lively illustrations.' THE MIRROR NEWSPAPER 'Panda at the Door explores a family break-up with sensitivity at heart' BIG ISSUE NORTH Pudding the Panda makes everyone smile at Edinburgh Zoo. But what would make her truly happy is a family to take care of - like her heroine, Mary Poppins. Meanwhile, Callum is having a hard time at home. His parents keep arguing, his sister is annoying and his ninth birthday gift is a certificate for an 'adopted' panda when all he wanted was Lego. Then by a twist of fate, the unbelievable happens and the two come together on Callum's front doorstep. Get ready for pandamonium ... The first in a new series, fully illustrated by author Sarah Horne (bestselling illustrator of Charlie Changes into a Chicken). A modern-day family adventure: Paddington Bear meets Mary Poppins. Explores themes of childhood anxiety, family break-up, bullying, friendship and love.

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Studio Ghibli meets Diana Wynne Jones in the first spellbinding APPRENTICE WITCH book! 'Reminded me of the best of the Worst Witch books' ABI ELPHINSTONE 'A charming tale of magic, bravery and friendship, reminiscent of Diana Wynne Jones.' GUARDIAN 'The Apprentice Witch is entirely more charming, adventurous, and full of heart than a book has any right to be.' TRENTON LEE STEWART 'A delightful, witty and vivid story' KIRAN MILLWOOD HARGRAVE Arianwyn fluffs her witch’s assessment. Awarded the dull bronze disc of an apprentice – to the glee of her arch-rival, Gimma – she’s sent to protect the remote, dreary town of Lull. But her new life is far from boring. Turns out Gimma is the pompous mayor’s favourite niece – and worse, she opens a magical rift in the nearby forest. As Arianwyn struggles with her spells, it’s soon clear there’s much more than her pride at stake … A bewitching debut set in a world of domestic magic – a refreshingly small-world fantasy perfect for readers aged 9 and up. A spellbinding read, tapping into important themes of overcoming failure and building self-esteem. Filled with thrills, pesky magical conundrums, outlandish creatures and an enchanted forest, yet retains its warm soul and earthy charm!

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The first book in the bestselling BATTLE OF THE BEETLES series – perfect for fans of Roald Dahl! Winner of the Branford Boase Award 2017 Shortlisted for the Waterstones Children's Book Prize 2017 Shortlisted for the Books Are My Bag Children's Book Award 2016 Chosen for the Tom Fletcher Book Club 'Truly great storytelling.' MICHAEL MORPURGO 'Funny, exciting and genuinely eccentric' PHILIP REEVE 'Roald Dahl meets 101 Dalmatians in a rollicking ride, full of adventure with vivid characters' EXPRESS 'By the end, you'll think beetles are the coolest creatures on the planet' TOM FLETCHER Darkus can't believe his eyes when a huge insect drops out of the trouser leg of his horrible new neighbour. It's a giant beetle – and it seems to want to communicate. But how can a boy be friends with a beetle? And what does a beetle have to do with the disappearance of his dad and the arrival of Lucretia Cutter, with her taste for creepy jewellery? The first book in MG Leonard's acclaimed trilogy, followed by Beetle Queen and Battle of the Beetles! Featuring exotic beetles, a daring quest, a mixture of bold male and female characters and a truly venomous villain Includes brilliant illustrations by Julia Sard� From the author of Twitch and the Adventure on Trains series, co-written with Sam Sedgman

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When the River School's new head teacher decides to ban football,Jummy and friends must come up with a new game plan - and fast.

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